India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday evening (October 02). After a 1-0 lead, India had a chance to win their maiden T20I series versus the Proteas on home soil. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. rode on quickfire half-centuries from KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav apart from contributions from Rohit, Virat Kohli (49 not out) and Dinesh Karthik (7-ball 17*) to post 237-3.

In reply, South Africa were quickly reduced to 47 for 3 and looked out of the contest. However, a terrific 174-run unbeaten fourth-wicket stand between centurion David Miller (47-ball 106*) and Quinton de Kock's 48-ball 67* took SA to 221/3; losing by 16 runs. As a result, India's bowling in the second half of SA's run-chase was not upto the mark.&nbsp;

Indian bowlers leaked as many as a whopping 151 runs&nbsp;last ten overs. The last four overs saw Miller-De Kock smack 65 runs. Hence, Hitman opined on India's death bowling, which has remained below par since the Asia Cup 2022 edition.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-rohit-sharma-achieves-massive-feat-in-guwahati-becomes-first-indian-to-play-400-t20s-521932">Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma achieves MASSIVE feat in Guwahati, becomes first Indian to play 400 T20s</a>

"The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that freedom. Yes, we have not really bowled well in the death in the last five or six games. But that is the area where people will challenge us and we are doing the same to the opposition as well."

"To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. I wouldn't say it's concerning, but it's definitely an area we need to pick ourselves up and get our act together," the skipper pointed out at the post-match presentation.

India will meet Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. for the final T20I on Wednesday (October 04) before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday evening (October 02). After a 1-0 lead, India had a chance to win their maiden T20I series versus the Proteas on home soil.

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday evening (October 02). After a 1-0 lead, India had a chance to win their maiden T20I series versus the Proteas on home soil. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma & Co. rode on quickfire half-centuries from KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav apart from contributions from Rohit, Virat Kohli (49 not out) and Dinesh Karthik (7-ball 17*) to post 237-3. In reply, South Africa were quickly reduced to 47 for 3 and looked out of the contest. However, a terrific 174-run unbeaten fourth-wicket stand between centurion David Miller (47-ball 106*) and Quinton de Kock's 48-ball 67* took SA to 221/3; losing by 16 runs. As a result, India's bowling in the second half of SA's run-chase was not upto the mark. Indian bowlers leaked as many as a whopping 151 runs last ten overs. The last four overs saw Miller-De Kock smack 65 runs. Hence, Hitman opined on India's death bowling, which has remained below par since the Asia Cup 2022 edition. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma achieves MASSIVE feat in Guwahati, becomes first Indian to play 400 T20s "The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that freedom. Yes, we have not really bowled well in the death in the last five or six games. But that is the area where people will challenge us and we are doing the same to the opposition as well." "To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. I wouldn't say it's concerning, but it's definitely an area we need to pick ourselves up and get our act together," the skipper pointed out at the post-match presentation. India will meet Temba Bavuma & Co. for the final T20I on Wednesday (October 04) before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

'Need to get...': Rohit Sharma admits India's death bowling needs improvement after 2nd T20I win vs SA

India defeated South Africa by 16 runs in a high-scoring second T20I to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Sunday.

Sent in to bat, India posted a massive 237 for three, riding on a solid batting display by the top four and then returned to restrict the visitors to 221 for 3 in the stipulated 20 overs.

Quinton de Kock (69 not out) and David Miller (106 not out) did the bulk of scoring for the visitors.

KL Rahul (57) and Rohit Sharma (43) put on a 96-run opening stand to set the foundation for India at the Barsapara cricket stadium here.

Suryakumar Yadav (61) then took centre stage as he smashed five boundaries and as many sixes en route to his 102-run stand off just 40 balls with Virat Kohli (49 not out).

Dinesh Karthik then made some lusty blows in his seven-ball 17 not out.

Keshav Maharaj (2/23) was the most successful bowler for South Africa but it turned out to be a disastrous day for the rest of his bowling colleagues.

For India, Arshdeep Singh (2/62) and Axar Patel (1/53) were the wicket-takers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Multiple records were broken in India's win over South Africa in the high-scoring T20I in Guwahati 👀 
 
Details ⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/XqOtmIsazn">https://t.co/XqOtmIsazn</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1576630833426956288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India seal a win to take a 2-0 lead in the series ✌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> | Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/jYtuRUcl0f">https://t.co/jYtuRUcl0f</a> <a href="https://t.co/To2VsXsqpF">pic.twitter.com/To2VsXsqpF</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1576629080253947905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Brief Score: 
India: 237 for 3 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 61, KL Rahul 57, Virat Kohli 49 not out; Keshav Maharaj 2/23). 
South Africa: 221 for 3 in 20 overs (David Miller 106 not out, Quinton de Kock 69 not out; Arshdeep Singh 2/62). 
&nbsp;

India defeated South Africa by 16 runs in a high-scoring second T20I to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Sunday. Sent in to bat, India posted a massive 237 for three, riding on a solid batting display by the top four and then returned to restrict the visitors to 221 for 3 in the stipulated 20 overs.

India defeated South Africa by 16 runs in a high-scoring second T20I to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Sunday. Sent in to bat, India posted a massive 237 for three, riding on a solid batting display by the top four and then returned to restrict the visitors to 221 for 3 in the stipulated 20 overs. Quinton de Kock (69 not out) and David Miller (106 not out) did the bulk of scoring for the visitors. KL Rahul (57) and Rohit Sharma (43) put on a 96-run opening stand to set the foundation for India at the Barsapara cricket stadium here. Suryakumar Yadav (61) then took centre stage as he smashed five boundaries and as many sixes en route to his 102-run stand off just 40 balls with Virat Kohli (49 not out). Dinesh Karthik then made some lusty blows in his seven-ball 17 not out. Keshav Maharaj (2/23) was the most successful bowler for South Africa but it turned out to be a disastrous day for the rest of his bowling colleagues. For India, Arshdeep Singh (2/62) and Axar Patel (1/53) were the wicket-takers. Multiple records were broken in India's win over South Africa in the high-scoring T20I in Guwahati 👀 Details ⬇️#INDvSA https://t.co/XqOtmIsazn — ICC (@ICC) October 2, 2022 × India seal a win to take a 2-0 lead in the series ✌🏻#INDvSA | Scorecard: https://t.co/jYtuRUcl0f pic.twitter.com/To2VsXsqpF — ICC (@ICC) October 2, 2022 × Brief Score: India: 237 for 3 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 61, KL Rahul 57, Virat Kohli 49 not out; Keshav Maharaj 2/23). South Africa: 221 for 3 in 20 overs (David Miller 106 not out, Quinton de Kock 69 not out; Arshdeep Singh 2/62).

India beat South Africa by 16 runs in 2nd T20I, take unassailable 2-0 lead

On Thursday (September 29), India were dealt a huge blow as pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of action, as per reports, due to back stress fracture. The injury is likely to keep him out of action for four to six months, ruling him out of the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November.

While nothing is official regarding Bumrah's absence from the showpiece event Down Under, the 28-year-old pacer is officially out of the&nbsp;remainder of&nbsp;India-South Africa T20Is at home. On Friday (September 30), BCCI announced Mohammed Siraj as the replacement for Bumrah.

Confirming the news of Bumrah’s back injury and Siraj's inclusion, the BCCI tweeted, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 NEWS 🚨: Mohd. Siraj replaces injured Jasprit Bumrah in T20I squad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> 
 
More Details 🔽<a href="https://t.co/o1HvH9XqcI">https://t.co/o1HvH9XqcI</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1575690427235438594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-jasprit-bumrah-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-with-back-stress-fracture-report-520857">Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: Report</a>

Before Bumrah's injury news broke out, the Indian T20I squad for the SA series had already been revised once. With Mohammed Shami not fully fit after testing positive for Covid-19 and Deepak Hooda missing out due to back issues, BCCI had roped in Umesh Yadav and Shreyas Iyer respectively. Moreover, Shahbaz Ahmed was also included as another all-round option.

India have a 1-0 lead over Temba Bavuma &amp; Co., after an impressive eight-wicket win in the series opener in Trivandrum on September 28 (Wednesday). The second and penultimate game is&nbsp;in Guwahati on Sunday (October 02).

Revised India squad for South Africa T20Is:

Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed.

On Thursday (September 29), India were dealt a huge blow as pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of action, as per reports, due to back stress fracture. The injury is likely to keep him out of action for four to six months, ruling him out of the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November.

On Thursday (September 29), India were dealt a huge blow as pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of action, as per reports, due to back stress fracture. The injury is likely to keep him out of action for four to six months, ruling him out of the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November. While nothing is official regarding Bumrah's absence from the showpiece event Down Under, the 28-year-old pacer is officially out of the remainder of India-South Africa T20Is at home. On Friday (September 30), BCCI announced Mohammed Siraj as the replacement for Bumrah. Confirming the news of Bumrah’s back injury and Siraj's inclusion, the BCCI tweeted, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team." 🚨 NEWS 🚨: Mohd. Siraj replaces injured Jasprit Bumrah in T20I squad. #TeamIndia | #INDvSA More Details 🔽https://t.co/o1HvH9XqcI — BCCI (@BCCI) September 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: Report Before Bumrah's injury news broke out, the Indian T20I squad for the SA series had already been revised once. With Mohammed Shami not fully fit after testing positive for Covid-19 and Deepak Hooda missing out due to back issues, BCCI had roped in Umesh Yadav and Shreyas Iyer respectively. Moreover, Shahbaz Ahmed was also included as another all-round option. India have a 1-0 lead over Temba Bavuma & Co., after an impressive eight-wicket win in the series opener in Trivandrum on September 28 (Wednesday). The second and penultimate game is in Guwahati on Sunday (October 02). Revised India squad for South Africa T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed.

Mohammed Siraj named replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in remaining T20Is vs South Africa

Jasprit Bumrah's back injury has created a huge stir. The entire Indian cricket fraternity is hoping for his quick recovery but reports suggest that the premier pacer can be out of action for four to six months, resulting in his possible ouster from the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.

While BCCI is yet to drop an official statement regarding Bumrah's T20 WC chances, the 28-year-old is certainly out of the remaining home T20Is versus South Africa, with the board naming Mohammed Siraj as his replacement.&nbsp;

Confirming the news of Bumrah’s back injury, the BCCI tweeted on Friday (September 30), "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-siraj-named-as-injured-jasprit-bumrahs-replacement-for-remaining-t20is-vs-south-africa-521125">Mohammed Siraj named as injured Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for remaining T20Is vs South Africa</a>

Thus, speculations are rife on who will replace Bumrah if he misses the T20 WC, starting on October 16. In this regard, former Indian stumper and selector Saba Karim has named Md Shami as his first-choice.

“I’ll go ahead with Mohammed Shami because he will find form although he hasn’t played, but he’s that kind of bowler who, once given an opportunity, can always step up and do the job for India. Plus, with this kind of experience, you need somebody at the top who can pick you wickets and you’ve seen Shami in the last Indian T20 league,” Karim was quoted as saying on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-is-back-stress-fracture-as-jasprit-bumrah-likely-to-be-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-521146">EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup</a>

“He’s such a bowler who can pick wickets with the new ball in the power play and India needs that. So, if Mohammed Shami can pick up early wickets with the new ball, that’s the kind of start India would need while defending the target or while trying to restrict the opposition from setting a huge target,” he added.

There is a close competition between Shami and Deepak Chahar to fill in for injured Bumrah. At present, Shami is on recovery mode after testing positive for Covid-19 whereas Chahar played the T20I series opener versus SA, in Trivindrum on September 28 (Wednesday), accounting for two vital scalps in India's eight-wicket win. The pacer replaced Bumrah in the line-up.

Jasprit Bumrah's back injury has created a huge stir. The entire Indian cricket fraternity is hoping for his quick recovery but reports suggest that the premier pacer can be out of action for four to six months, resulting in his possible ouster from the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.

Jasprit Bumrah's back injury has created a huge stir. The entire Indian cricket fraternity is hoping for his quick recovery but reports suggest that the premier pacer can be out of action for four to six months, resulting in his possible ouster from the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. While BCCI is yet to drop an official statement regarding Bumrah's T20 WC chances, the 28-year-old is certainly out of the remaining home T20Is versus South Africa, with the board naming Mohammed Siraj as his replacement. Confirming the news of Bumrah’s back injury, the BCCI tweeted on Friday (September 30), "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team." ALSO READ | Mohammed Siraj named as injured Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for remaining T20Is vs South Africa Thus, speculations are rife on who will replace Bumrah if he misses the T20 WC, starting on October 16. In this regard, former Indian stumper and selector Saba Karim has named Md Shami as his first-choice. “I’ll go ahead with Mohammed Shami because he will find form although he hasn’t played, but he’s that kind of bowler who, once given an opportunity, can always step up and do the job for India. Plus, with this kind of experience, you need somebody at the top who can pick you wickets and you’ve seen Shami in the last Indian T20 league,” Karim was quoted as saying on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup “He’s such a bowler who can pick wickets with the new ball in the power play and India needs that. So, if Mohammed Shami can pick up early wickets with the new ball, that’s the kind of start India would need while defending the target or while trying to restrict the opposition from setting a huge target,” he added. There is a close competition between Shami and Deepak Chahar to fill in for injured Bumrah. At present, Shami is on recovery mode after testing positive for Covid-19 whereas Chahar played the T20I series opener versus SA, in Trivindrum on September 28 (Wednesday), accounting for two vital scalps in India's eight-wicket win. The pacer replaced Bumrah in the line-up.

Former Indian stumper names star pacer who can replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 WC squad

Sanjay Manjrekar and Ravindra Jadeja Twitter spat made the headlines in 2019. It all started with Manjrekar calling Jadeja a 'bits and pieces' cricketer during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales. Jadeja scored a fighting 79 in India's 18-run loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals and questioned the former cricketer for his comments soon after reaching&nbsp;his half-century.

Since then, the two have not interacted much but during the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Manjrekar interviewed Jadeja after India's group stage win over Pakistan -- where the all-rounder scored a vital 29-ball 35. Back then, the cricketer-turned-commentator hilariously asked Jaddu, "You are ok to talk to me?" To this, the 33-year-old said, "Ya ya, absolutely" as the two had a good laugh.

On Friday (September 30), Jadeja took to his official Twitter handle and&nbsp;posted Manjrekar’s photo with a caption, "Watching my dear friend on screen @sanjaymanjrekar." To this, Manjrekar replied, "Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon :) <a href="https://t.co/eMpZyZYsYU">https://t.co/eMpZyZYsYU</a>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1575675580053590016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-you-are-ok-to-talk-to-me-manjrekar-leaves-jadeja-in-splits-all-rounder-replies-watch-511061">IND vs PAK: 'You are ok to talk to me?': Manjrekar leaves Jadeja in splits, all-rounder replies - WATCH</a>

It looks like the two have buried their differences and moved past their 2019 spat. Talking about Jadeja, the all-rounder is out of action due to a knee injury. He underwent a successful surgery early this month but is likely to not be seen in action again in 2022.

Sanjay Manjrekar and Ravindra Jadeja Twitter spat made the headlines in 2019. It all started with Manjrekar calling Jadeja a 'bits and pieces' cricketer during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales.

Sanjay Manjrekar and Ravindra Jadeja Twitter spat made the headlines in 2019. It all started with Manjrekar calling Jadeja a 'bits and pieces' cricketer during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales. Jadeja scored a fighting 79 in India's 18-run loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals and questioned the former cricketer for his comments soon after reaching his half-century. Since then, the two have not interacted much but during the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Manjrekar interviewed Jadeja after India's group stage win over Pakistan -- where the all-rounder scored a vital 29-ball 35. Back then, the cricketer-turned-commentator hilariously asked Jaddu, "You are ok to talk to me?" To this, the 33-year-old said, "Ya ya, absolutely" as the two had a good laugh. On Friday (September 30), Jadeja took to his official Twitter handle and posted Manjrekar’s photo with a caption, "Watching my dear friend on screen @sanjaymanjrekar." To this, Manjrekar replied, "Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon." Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon :) https://t.co/eMpZyZYsYU — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) September 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | IND vs PAK: 'You are ok to talk to me?': Manjrekar leaves Jadeja in splits, all-rounder replies - WATCH It looks like the two have buried their differences and moved past their 2019 spat. Talking about Jadeja, the all-rounder is out of action due to a knee injury. He underwent a successful surgery early this month but is likely to not be seen in action again in 2022.

'Your dear friend...': Sanjay Manjrekar reacts to Ravindra Jadeja's viral post, leaves heartfelt message

The men's T20 World Cup is set to get underway in Australia from mid-October. All the major teams are in the final stages of their preparations whereas the lowly-ranked sides will lock horns in the qualifiers, which starts on October 16, before the main draw of the showpiece event -- commencing&nbsp;a six days later.

On Friday (September 30), the International Cricket Council (ICC)&nbsp;announced the prize money for the upcoming edition of the T20 WC. The winning team is set to walk&nbsp;away with a staggering sum of INR $1.6 million whereas the runners-up will&nbsp;attain half the amount, i.e.&nbsp;$8, 00, 000.

Meanwhile, the losing semi-finalists will&nbsp;get $400,000 each from the $5.6 million total prize pool. Here's the full list:

Prize Money table

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Stage
			</td>
			<td>
			Unit
			</td>
			<td>
			Per Team
			</td>
			<td>
			Total
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Winners
			</td>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 1,600,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 1,600,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Runners-Up
			</td>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 800,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 800,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Losing Semi-finalists
			</td>
			<td>
			2
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 400,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 800,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Super 12 Wins
			</td>
			<td>
			30
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 40,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 1,200,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Super 12 Exit
			</td>
			<td>
			8
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 70,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 560,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			First Round Win
			</td>
			<td>
			12
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 40,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 480,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			First Round Exit
			</td>
			<td>
			4
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 40,000
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 160,000
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Total
			</td>
			<td>
			&nbsp;
			</td>
			<td>
			&nbsp;
			</td>
			<td>
			$ 5,600,000
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-is-back-stress-fracture-as-jasprit-bumrah-likely-to-be-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-521146">EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup</a>

Many experts and former cricketers have shared their predictions for the forthcoming ICC event. India, Australia, Pakistan, South Africa and England are one of the strongest sides but one cannot write off the other teams as the shortest format has enough ebbs and flows and, hence, any team can get the better of the other on a given day.&nbsp;

Talking about Team India's preparations, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have been on a winning spree in the format in the ongoing calendar year. Barring a disappointing run in Asia Cup 2022 edition, Men in Blue have done very well&nbsp;and will enter the tournament as a&nbsp;strong contender.&nbsp;

Rohit-starrer India failed to get past the Super 12 round in last year's edition, however, will be eager to go the distance this time around and win the trophy for the second time, after the 2007 edition.

The men's T20 World Cup is set to get underway in Australia from mid-October. All the major teams are in the final stages of their preparations whereas the lowly-ranked sides will lock horns in the qualifiers, which starts on October 16, before the main draw of the showpiece event -- commencing a six days later.

The men's T20 World Cup is set to get underway in Australia from mid-October. All the major teams are in the final stages of their preparations whereas the lowly-ranked sides will lock horns in the qualifiers, which starts on October 16, before the main draw of the showpiece event -- commencing a six days later. On Friday (September 30), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the prize money for the upcoming edition of the T20 WC. The winning team is set to walk away with a staggering sum of INR $1.6 million whereas the runners-up will attain half the amount, i.e. $8, 00, 000. Meanwhile, the losing semi-finalists will get $400,000 each from the $5.6 million total prize pool. Here's the full list: Prize Money table Stage Unit Per Team Total Winners 1 $ 1,600,000 $ 1,600,000 Runners-Up 1 $ 800,000 $ 800,000 Losing Semi-finalists 2 $ 400,000 $ 800,000 Super 12 Wins 30 $ 40,000 $ 1,200,000 Super 12 Exit 8 $ 70,000 $ 560,000 First Round Win 12 $ 40,000 $ 480,000 First Round Exit 4 $ 40,000 $ 160,000 Total $ 5,600,000 ALSO READ | EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup Many experts and former cricketers have shared their predictions for the forthcoming ICC event. India, Australia, Pakistan, South Africa and England are one of the strongest sides but one cannot write off the other teams as the shortest format has enough ebbs and flows and, hence, any team can get the better of the other on a given day. Talking about Team India's preparations, Rohit Sharma & Co. have been on a winning spree in the format in the ongoing calendar year. Barring a disappointing run in Asia Cup 2022 edition, Men in Blue have done very well and will enter the tournament as a strong contender. Rohit-starrer India failed to get past the Super 12 round in last year's edition, however, will be eager to go the distance this time around and win the trophy for the second time, after the 2007 edition.

Prize money for T20 World Cup: Full list out! Winner to walk away with a WHOPPING sum

Team India dealt with a huge blow on Thursday (September 29) as Jasprit Bumrah is now out of action due to a back stress fracture and will miss the remainder of the home T20Is versus South Africa, As per a report in the PTI, the 28-year-old speedster is also set to miss the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, as his injury will take time to heal and the premier pacer might be away from the game for 4-6 months.

While BCCI is yet to share an official statement regarding Bumrah's chances of featuring in the T20 WC, in Australia from October-November, his back issues have re-emerged at a very poor time; less than a month before the mega event Down Under. It is to be noted that Bumrah&nbsp;missed the Asia Cup 2022 edition&nbsp;due to back issues as well.

In a chat with the&nbsp;Times of India, Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala -- an&nbsp;ICC medical advisory committee doctor -- explained what is a back stress fracture.

What is a back stress fracture?

"Any pacer is prone to stress fractures in the low back and this typically happens on the side opposite to the bowling arm. In a normal fracture, a bone breaks because of an injury. However, a stress fracture happens because of repetitive micro-injury as small injuries build up over weeks or months," the doctor explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-siraj-named-as-injured-jasprit-bumrahs-replacement-for-remaining-t20is-vs-south-africa-521125">Mohammed Siraj named as injured Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for remaining T20Is vs South Africa</a>

It seems that the BCCI is still hopeful of Bumrah's recovery and, hence, are eager to play the waiting game as they have not officially released a statement ruling out the pacer's chances of playing the T20 WC. On Friday (September 30), the board, however, announced that Mohammed Siraj has replaced injured Bumrah for the remainder of the SA T20Is at home.

The BCCI tweeted, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team."

Indian team management and the cricket loyalists across the nation will be desperate to see Bumrah in India's squad for the T20 WC in Australia. At present, the chances are slim and the picture remains unclear.

Team India dealt with a huge blow on Thursday (September 29) as Jasprit Bumrah is now out of action due to a back stress fracture and will miss the remainder of the home T20Is versus South Africa, As per a report in the PTI, the 28-year-old speedster is also set to miss the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, as his injury will take time to heal and the premier pacer might be away from the game for 4-6 months.

Team India dealt with a huge blow on Thursday (September 29) as Jasprit Bumrah is now out of action due to a back stress fracture and will miss the remainder of the home T20Is versus South Africa, As per a report in the PTI, the 28-year-old speedster is also set to miss the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, as his injury will take time to heal and the premier pacer might be away from the game for 4-6 months. While BCCI is yet to share an official statement regarding Bumrah's chances of featuring in the T20 WC, in Australia from October-November, his back issues have re-emerged at a very poor time; less than a month before the mega event Down Under. It is to be noted that Bumrah missed the Asia Cup 2022 edition due to back issues as well. In a chat with the Times of India, Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala -- an ICC medical advisory committee doctor -- explained what is a back stress fracture. What is a back stress fracture? "Any pacer is prone to stress fractures in the low back and this typically happens on the side opposite to the bowling arm. In a normal fracture, a bone breaks because of an injury. However, a stress fracture happens because of repetitive micro-injury as small injuries build up over weeks or months," the doctor explained. ALSO READ | Mohammed Siraj named as injured Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for remaining T20Is vs South Africa It seems that the BCCI is still hopeful of Bumrah's recovery and, hence, are eager to play the waiting game as they have not officially released a statement ruling out the pacer's chances of playing the T20 WC. On Friday (September 30), the board, however, announced that Mohammed Siraj has replaced injured Bumrah for the remainder of the SA T20Is at home. The BCCI tweeted, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team." Indian team management and the cricket loyalists across the nation will be desperate to see Bumrah in India's squad for the T20 WC in Australia. At present, the chances are slim and the picture remains unclear.

EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup

BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November, early this month. The main squad features some big names whereas they mentioned Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar and Shreyas Iyer in the reserves.

Sanju Samson's omission left many of his fans disappointed whereas some former cricketers backed the decision although some felt it was harsh on him. Recently, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly mentioned that Samson, who captains the Rajasthan Royals (RR), 'just missed' being a part of the squad.

"Sanju is playing well. He played for India but just missed the World Cup. He is in the Indian team's plans. He is now a part of the ODI team against SA. Also he has done well in the IPL franchise and he is the Captain also," said the former Indian captain ahead of India's T20I series versus South Africa at home.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-will-give-him-fame-popularity-and-riches-but-former-india-pacer-opines-on-sanju-samson-520544">'IPL will give him fame, popularity, and riches but...' - Former India pacer opines on Sanju Samson</a>

Samson recently led India A in a three-match ODI series versus New Zealand at home. India A whitewashed the Black Caps whereas Samson also returned with scores of 29*, 37 and 54. He will look to remain consistent going ahead to break into the main squad and cement his place for a long period.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India were dealt with a major blow on Thursday (September 29) as Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the T20 WC due to stress back fracture. With all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja already ruled out, Rohit Sharma-led India will need the bowling unit to stand tall incase Bumrah is officially sidelined. As per reports, Shami or Chahar might get a look-in the main squad with no Bumrah. On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj might replace Bumrah in India's squad for the ongoing T20Is against SA.

Here's India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Standby players -&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

Bumrah's absence will surely lead to some changes in the main squad and the standby list.

BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November, early this month. The main squad features some big names whereas they mentioned Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar and Shreyas Iyer in the reserves.

BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November, early this month. The main squad features some big names whereas they mentioned Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar and Shreyas Iyer in the reserves. Sanju Samson's omission left many of his fans disappointed whereas some former cricketers backed the decision although some felt it was harsh on him. Recently, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly mentioned that Samson, who captains the Rajasthan Royals (RR), 'just missed' being a part of the squad. "Sanju is playing well. He played for India but just missed the World Cup. He is in the Indian team's plans. He is now a part of the ODI team against SA. Also he has done well in the IPL franchise and he is the Captain also," said the former Indian captain ahead of India's T20I series versus South Africa at home. ALSO READ | 'IPL will give him fame, popularity, and riches but...' - Former India pacer opines on Sanju Samson Samson recently led India A in a three-match ODI series versus New Zealand at home. India A whitewashed the Black Caps whereas Samson also returned with scores of 29*, 37 and 54. He will look to remain consistent going ahead to break into the main squad and cement his place for a long period. Meanwhile, India were dealt with a major blow on Thursday (September 29) as Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the T20 WC due to stress back fracture. With all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja already ruled out, Rohit Sharma-led India will need the bowling unit to stand tall incase Bumrah is officially sidelined. As per reports, Shami or Chahar might get a look-in the main squad with no Bumrah. On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj might replace Bumrah in India's squad for the ongoing T20Is against SA. Here's India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar Bumrah's absence will surely lead to some changes in the main squad and the standby list.

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly names star player who 'just missed' a spot in T20 World Cup squad

India hosted South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). Opting to bowl first, India restricted Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. for a paltry 106-8 in 20 overs with Arshdeep Singh (3 for 32), Deepak Chahar (2 for 24) and Harshal Patel (2 for 26) starring with the ball in tough batting conditions.

In reply, India lost skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for cheap and were tottering at 17 for 2 before an unbeaten 93-run third-wicket partnership between half-centurions KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (who remained not out on 50 off 33 balls) rescued India and took them past the finish line.

After the match, many trolled Rahul for his slow strike rate (91.07).&nbsp;In the recent past, including the IPL, Rahul's strike rate has been criticised but the team management has insisted that he is batting as per the role allotted to him (i.e. of an accumulator). Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra is baffled with the criticism and feels it is irrelevant keeping in mind the nature of the surface and India's poor start in pursuit of 107.

"People are just blasting Rahul for his knock, I can't understand why. If you are chasing only 107, and the conditions are difficult, why will the batter look to hit? It is okay to score ugly runs as well, it takes courage and guts," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-rohit-sharma-goes-past-ms-dhoni-to-achieve-most-t20i-wins-by-indian-captain-in-a-calendar-year-520873">Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma goes past MS Dhoni to achieve most T20I wins by Indian captain in a calendar year</a>

"Had he decided to start striking the ball and got out instead of settling, then that would have been irresponsible. He batted really well, in my opinion: respected the conditions and the situation and played accordingly. So please cut him some slack," Chopra added.

After the match, Rahul told the broadcasters,&nbsp;"We did practice here yesterday and that was a humbling experience as well, we all came in prepared mentally as it was not going to be an easy wicket and I was ready to do the dirty work, ready to be challenged and get the job done for the team."

Rahul's strike rate was around&nbsp;50 for most part of his&nbsp;inning&nbsp;versus the Proteas. Given Surya was going very well at the other end and India weren't chasing a big score, Rahul did the right thing by playing as per the situation and held one end with sensible cricket.

India hosted South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). Opting to bowl first, India restricted Temba Bavuma & Co.

India hosted South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). Opting to bowl first, India restricted Temba Bavuma & Co. for a paltry 106-8 in 20 overs with Arshdeep Singh (3 for 32), Deepak Chahar (2 for 24) and Harshal Patel (2 for 26) starring with the ball in tough batting conditions. In reply, India lost skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for cheap and were tottering at 17 for 2 before an unbeaten 93-run third-wicket partnership between half-centurions KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (who remained not out on 50 off 33 balls) rescued India and took them past the finish line. After the match, many trolled Rahul for his slow strike rate (91.07). In the recent past, including the IPL, Rahul's strike rate has been criticised but the team management has insisted that he is batting as per the role allotted to him (i.e. of an accumulator). Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra is baffled with the criticism and feels it is irrelevant keeping in mind the nature of the surface and India's poor start in pursuit of 107. "People are just blasting Rahul for his knock, I can't understand why. If you are chasing only 107, and the conditions are difficult, why will the batter look to hit? It is okay to score ugly runs as well, it takes courage and guts," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma goes past MS Dhoni to achieve most T20I wins by Indian captain in a calendar year "Had he decided to start striking the ball and got out instead of settling, then that would have been irresponsible. He batted really well, in my opinion: respected the conditions and the situation and played accordingly. So please cut him some slack," Chopra added. After the match, Rahul told the broadcasters, "We did practice here yesterday and that was a humbling experience as well, we all came in prepared mentally as it was not going to be an easy wicket and I was ready to do the dirty work, ready to be challenged and get the job done for the team." Rahul's strike rate was around 50 for most part of his inning versus the Proteas. Given Surya was going very well at the other end and India weren't chasing a big score, Rahul did the right thing by playing as per the situation and held one end with sensible cricket.

'Please cut him some slack' - Aakash Chopra tells KL Rahul's critics after his 56-ball 51* vs SA

Rohit Sharma-led India faced South Africa in the three-match T20I series at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). After beating Australia in the three T20Is, 2-1, India were favourites to get past Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. in the series opener.&nbsp;

Everything clicked for India from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Rohit &amp; Co. restricted a strong South African line-up for a paltry 106/8 in 20 overs. In reply, India lost two quick wickets and were reduced to 17-2 before unbeaten half-centuries from KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (50 not out off 33 balls) propelled India to an eight-wicket win with 20 balls to spare.

After earning another win in 2022, where India have had a dream run in the shortest format barring their blip in the Asia Cup, Rohit broke former captain MS Dhoni's elite record of most victories in the format by an Indian skipper in a calendar year. Dhoni had achieved 16 wins as the T20I captain in 2016. With the easy victory over SA, Rohit has now won 16 games as India's T20I skipper in 2022.

Hitman will look to add more to his tally by the end of 2022, by winning the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arshdeep-singh-deepak-chahar-run-riot-as-india-blow-away-south-africa-in-1st-t20i-520634">Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar run riot as India thrash South Africa by 8 wickets in 1st T20I</a>

At the post-match presentation of the first T20I versus SA, Rohit said, "The wicket was tricky. You learn a lot playing such a game. You understand what the team needs to do in tough conditions. It was nice to play a game like that. We knew the bowlers will get something seeing grass on the pitch, but we didn't expected help for the full 20 overs. It was still damp. Both teams were in the contest and the team that played better won the game. We started well, got 5 wickets in quick time and that was the turning point. Perfect showcase of how to bowl when there is help for the pacers (talking about Deepak Chahar and Arshdeep). We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Got to respect the conditions. Lost two wickets and that partnership between KL and Surya got us home."

Rohit Sharma-led India faced South Africa in the three-match T20I series at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). After beating Australia in the three T20Is, 2-1, India were favourites to get past Temba Bavuma & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India faced South Africa in the three-match T20I series at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). After beating Australia in the three T20Is, 2-1, India were favourites to get past Temba Bavuma & Co. in the series opener. Everything clicked for India from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Rohit & Co. restricted a strong South African line-up for a paltry 106/8 in 20 overs. In reply, India lost two quick wickets and were reduced to 17-2 before unbeaten half-centuries from KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (50 not out off 33 balls) propelled India to an eight-wicket win with 20 balls to spare. After earning another win in 2022, where India have had a dream run in the shortest format barring their blip in the Asia Cup, Rohit broke former captain MS Dhoni's elite record of most victories in the format by an Indian skipper in a calendar year. Dhoni had achieved 16 wins as the T20I captain in 2016. With the easy victory over SA, Rohit has now won 16 games as India's T20I skipper in 2022. Hitman will look to add more to his tally by the end of 2022, by winning the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. ALSO READ | Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar run riot as India thrash South Africa by 8 wickets in 1st T20I At the post-match presentation of the first T20I versus SA, Rohit said, "The wicket was tricky. You learn a lot playing such a game. You understand what the team needs to do in tough conditions. It was nice to play a game like that. We knew the bowlers will get something seeing grass on the pitch, but we didn't expected help for the full 20 overs. It was still damp. Both teams were in the contest and the team that played better won the game. We started well, got 5 wickets in quick time and that was the turning point. Perfect showcase of how to bowl when there is help for the pacers (talking about Deepak Chahar and Arshdeep). We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Got to respect the conditions. Lost two wickets and that partnership between KL and Surya got us home."

Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma goes past MS Dhoni to achieve most T20I wins by Indian captain in a calendar year

In what comes as a huge blow for Team India, Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition due to a stress-back fracture. Bumrah had missed the India-South Africa T20I series opener, at Trivandrum, as he complained of back pain. Nonetheless, as per a report in the PTI, the ace pacer has been ruled out of action for 4-6 months.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jasprit Bumrah out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: BCCI sources
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1575417742395842560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arshdeep-singh-deepak-chahar-run-riot-as-india-blow-away-south-africa-in-1st-t20i-520634">Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar run riot as India thrash South Africa by 8 wickets in 1st T20I</a>

After Bumrah was not named in India's playing XI for the three-match T20I series opener versus South Africa, on Wednesday (September 28), eyebrows were raised across the Indian cricket fraternity. "Jasprit Bumrah complained of back pain during India's practice session on Tuesday. The BCCI Medical Team assessed him. He is ruled out of the first #INDvSA T20I," BCCI had written while sharing an update of the speedster's injury.

If reports turn out to be true, this is a massive blow to Rohit Sharma-led India's chances to win the forthcoming 2022 T20 WC in Australia. The 28-year-old is the leader of India's bowling attack and with Bhuvneshwar Kumar struggling to curtail the run-flow in the death overs, many had their hopes on Bumrah to take full onus in the upcoming showpiece event Down Under.&nbsp;

An official&nbsp;statement regarding Bumrah's injury update from the Indian team management is now keenly awaited.

In what comes as a huge blow for Team India, Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition due to a stress-back fracture. Bumrah had missed the India-South Africa T20I series opener, at Trivandrum, as he complained of back pain.

In what comes as a huge blow for Team India, Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition due to a stress-back fracture. Bumrah had missed the India-South Africa T20I series opener, at Trivandrum, as he complained of back pain. Nonetheless, as per a report in the PTI, the ace pacer has been ruled out of action for 4-6 months. Jasprit Bumrah out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: BCCI sources — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 29, 2022 × ALSO READ | Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar run riot as India thrash South Africa by 8 wickets in 1st T20I After Bumrah was not named in India's playing XI for the three-match T20I series opener versus South Africa, on Wednesday (September 28), eyebrows were raised across the Indian cricket fraternity. "Jasprit Bumrah complained of back pain during India's practice session on Tuesday. The BCCI Medical Team assessed him. He is ruled out of the first #INDvSA T20I," BCCI had written while sharing an update of the speedster's injury. If reports turn out to be true, this is a massive blow to Rohit Sharma-led India's chances to win the forthcoming 2022 T20 WC in Australia. The 28-year-old is the leader of India's bowling attack and with Bhuvneshwar Kumar struggling to curtail the run-flow in the death overs, many had their hopes on Bumrah to take full onus in the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. An official statement regarding Bumrah's injury update from the Indian team management is now keenly awaited.

Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: Report

When the BCCI selection committee announced India's main squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, it included many regulars but Sanju Samson's omission made heads turn. The right-hander hasn't created quite a stir at the highest level, barring some good cameos and a couple of half-centuries so far, Samson is a big name in the IPL and is lauded for his free-flowing approach with the bat.

Being in India's scheme of things in the shorter formats, Samson has not been able to break into the main squad. The keeper-batter often features in India's second-stringed line-ups and, hence, was part of the Men in Blue's white-ball tour of West Indies and the three ODIs versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation. In the two tours, many of India's regular players were rested, thus, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper got several opportunities. While some believe he should have been a part of India's T20 WC squad, or at least in the reserves, former pacer S Sreesanth opined that Samson has a lot to catch up on and be more consistent for his state side Kerela.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-bhuvneshwar-kumar-is-listening-indias-t20-wc-medallist-shares-his-two-cents-for-out-of-form-pacer-520189">'If Bhuvneshwar Kumar is listening...' - India's T20 WC medallist shares his two cents for out-of-form pacer</a>

"He has to be consistent. See, everyone is talking about the IPL. I’m from Kerala, I’m somebody who has always supported him. I’ve seen him play from U14. He has played under me. In fact, I was the one who gave him the cap on his Ranji Trophy debut. But the way I see him… it’s a request to him – he has to start performing in first-class matches,” Sreesanth told&nbsp;Hindustan Times&nbsp;on the sidelines of the Delhi leg of 2022 Legends League Cricket.

Samson has 3,526 runs in 138 IPL games, including three hundreds at a strike rate of 135.72. Nonetheless, Sreesanth -- a twin World Cup-winner --&nbsp;feels he has to step up in the first-class cricket. "Yes, IPL is very important. IPL will give him fame, popularity, and riches, everything across the globe. But I have this strong feeling – for any cricketer for that matter – that they need to start doing extremely well for the state side, especially in first-class cricket. Sanju has to come out and perform in first-class matches. Not just score a hundred, score 200s. Come and make the Kerala team win the Ranji Trophy! Make Kerala team win the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Then, the Kerala cricketers will come out on top,” Sreesanth asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/promotion-on-cards-sanju-samson-likely-to-be-named-vice-captain-for-indias-odis-vs-south-africa-report-520456">Promotion on cards? Sanju Samson likely to be named India vice-captain for ODIs vs South Africa - Report</a>

Sreesanth also believes that there is a stiff competition in the Indian team for the keeper-batter slot and, hence, further pointed out, "Is Sanju the only cricketer in Kerala? No, there are so many other cricketers in the state. It’s just a matter of time. Sanju is playing in the IPL, he should be so grateful. The Malayali people across the globe are supporting him, but then, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan… they can all keep. I’m telling you, the keeper-batsmen combination is very high, it’s not just Sanju."

He added, "I’ve told him also, that he has to come back to first-class cricket and make Kerala win. He is the captain also, I genuinely hope he scores hundreds, not just one hundred in three years. He should come into the scene like how Rishabh Pant or Ishan Kishan came. I’m very confident Sanju has got the talent and the ability. It’s just the matter of consistency."

At present, Samson is expected to be named as India's vice-captain for the upcoming South Africa ODIs, at home, starting on Octoebr 06. With the T20 WC-bound players leaving for Australia, Shikhar Dhawan is likely to lead the ODI side with Samson reportedly set to get a promotion as the vice-captain.&nbsp;

When the BCCI selection committee announced India's main squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, it included many regulars but Sanju Samson's omission made heads turn.

When the BCCI selection committee announced India's main squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, it included many regulars but Sanju Samson's omission made heads turn. The right-hander hasn't created quite a stir at the highest level, barring some good cameos and a couple of half-centuries so far, Samson is a big name in the IPL and is lauded for his free-flowing approach with the bat. Being in India's scheme of things in the shorter formats, Samson has not been able to break into the main squad. The keeper-batter often features in India's second-stringed line-ups and, hence, was part of the Men in Blue's white-ball tour of West Indies and the three ODIs versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation. In the two tours, many of India's regular players were rested, thus, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper got several opportunities. While some believe he should have been a part of India's T20 WC squad, or at least in the reserves, former pacer S Sreesanth opined that Samson has a lot to catch up on and be more consistent for his state side Kerela. ALSO READ | 'If Bhuvneshwar Kumar is listening...' - India's T20 WC medallist shares his two cents for out-of-form pacer "He has to be consistent. See, everyone is talking about the IPL. I’m from Kerala, I’m somebody who has always supported him. I’ve seen him play from U14. He has played under me. In fact, I was the one who gave him the cap on his Ranji Trophy debut. But the way I see him… it’s a request to him – he has to start performing in first-class matches,” Sreesanth told Hindustan Times on the sidelines of the Delhi leg of 2022 Legends League Cricket. Samson has 3,526 runs in 138 IPL games, including three hundreds at a strike rate of 135.72. Nonetheless, Sreesanth -- a twin World Cup-winner -- feels he has to step up in the first-class cricket. "Yes, IPL is very important. IPL will give him fame, popularity, and riches, everything across the globe. But I have this strong feeling – for any cricketer for that matter – that they need to start doing extremely well for the state side, especially in first-class cricket. Sanju has to come out and perform in first-class matches. Not just score a hundred, score 200s. Come and make the Kerala team win the Ranji Trophy! Make Kerala team win the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Then, the Kerala cricketers will come out on top,” Sreesanth asserted. ALSO READ | Promotion on cards? Sanju Samson likely to be named India vice-captain for ODIs vs South Africa - Report Sreesanth also believes that there is a stiff competition in the Indian team for the keeper-batter slot and, hence, further pointed out, "Is Sanju the only cricketer in Kerala? No, there are so many other cricketers in the state. It’s just a matter of time. Sanju is playing in the IPL, he should be so grateful. The Malayali people across the globe are supporting him, but then, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan… they can all keep. I’m telling you, the keeper-batsmen combination is very high, it’s not just Sanju." He added, "I’ve told him also, that he has to come back to first-class cricket and make Kerala win. He is the captain also, I genuinely hope he scores hundreds, not just one hundred in three years. He should come into the scene like how Rishabh Pant or Ishan Kishan came. I’m very confident Sanju has got the talent and the ability. It’s just the matter of consistency." At present, Samson is expected to be named as India's vice-captain for the upcoming South Africa ODIs, at home, starting on Octoebr 06. With the T20 WC-bound players leaving for Australia, Shikhar Dhawan is likely to lead the ODI side with Samson reportedly set to get a promotion as the vice-captain.

'IPL will give him fame, popularity, and riches but...' - Former India pacer opines on Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson's omission from India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, made a lot of noise. He was not even named in the reserves, which many felt was a harsh call due to&nbsp;his free-flowing approach with the bat. After his omission, BCCI named him as the captain for India A's three ODIs versus New Zealand at home.

After leading India A to a 3-0 whitewash over the Kiwis, it seems like a big promotion is on the cards for Samson. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper is likely to be named as India's vice-captain for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus South Africa at home, starting on October 6. 
 
As per ANI, Samson is in-line to be Shikhar Dhawan's deputy for the Proteas ODIs. After Rohit Sharma-led India's three T20Is versus Temba Bavuma &amp; Co., a second-string&nbsp;Indian side -- under Dhawan's captaincy (all but confirmed)&nbsp;-- will host three 50-over games versus South Africa whereas the T20 WC-bound players will leave for Australia for the upcoming showpiece event Down Under.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-south-africa-1st-t20i-ist-time-and-streaming-details-520431">Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details</a>

With the likes of Rohit, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. being out of action from the three ODIs, Samson has emerged as a strong contender to join the leadership group for the SA ODIs. Apart from him, Shubman Gill is another candidate who can act as Dhawan's deputy.&nbsp;

The BCCI selection committee is expected to announce India's second-stringed squad sooner than later. Talking about Samson, the swashbuckling right-hander has played only seven ODIs for Team India. He was part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies but wasn't part of the Rohit-led Men in Blue's Asia Cup campaign and the Australia T20Is at home. Samson has led Rajasthan's IPL franchise in two full editions and guided them to their first-ever final during IPL 2022, where they lost to eventual winners Gujarat Titans (GT).

Sanju Samson's omission from India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, made a lot of noise. He was not even named in the reserves, which many felt was a harsh call due to his free-flowing approach with the bat.

Sanju Samson's omission from India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, made a lot of noise. He was not even named in the reserves, which many felt was a harsh call due to his free-flowing approach with the bat. After his omission, BCCI named him as the captain for India A's three ODIs versus New Zealand at home. After leading India A to a 3-0 whitewash over the Kiwis, it seems like a big promotion is on the cards for Samson. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper is likely to be named as India's vice-captain for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus South Africa at home, starting on October 6. As per ANI, Samson is in-line to be Shikhar Dhawan's deputy for the Proteas ODIs. After Rohit Sharma-led India's three T20Is versus Temba Bavuma & Co., a second-string Indian side -- under Dhawan's captaincy (all but confirmed) -- will host three 50-over games versus South Africa whereas the T20 WC-bound players will leave for Australia for the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details With the likes of Rohit, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. being out of action from the three ODIs, Samson has emerged as a strong contender to join the leadership group for the SA ODIs. Apart from him, Shubman Gill is another candidate who can act as Dhawan's deputy. The BCCI selection committee is expected to announce India's second-stringed squad sooner than later. Talking about Samson, the swashbuckling right-hander has played only seven ODIs for Team India. He was part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies but wasn't part of the Rohit-led Men in Blue's Asia Cup campaign and the Australia T20Is at home. Samson has led Rajasthan's IPL franchise in two full editions and guided them to their first-ever final during IPL 2022, where they lost to eventual winners Gujarat Titans (GT).

Promotion on cards? Sanju Samson likely to be named India vice-captain for ODIs vs South Africa - Report

Indian cricket fans breathed a sigh of relief during the Asia Cup with Virat Kohli returning to form. The 33-year-old former Indian skipper was out of action from international cricket, after the end of the England tour, and missed the entire white-ball tour of West Indies and the three ODIs versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation.

However, the break seemed to have worked wonders for Kohli who regained form in the Asia Cup, in the UAE. The right-hander returned with scores of 35, 59*, 60, 0, 122* to end as the second-highest run-getter in the tournament (276 runs in five outings) despite Rohit Sharma-led India's dismal campaign, where they failed to enter the final. He continued his good form in the India-Australia home T20Is, ending on a high with a crucial 63 in the final encounter that helped India clinch the series 2-1.

Ahead of India's last T20I series -- where they face South Africa -- before departing for Australia&nbsp;for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, former West Indies pacer Fidel Edwards has made a bold claim on Kohli.

In an exclusive interaction with Times Now, Edwards -- who is part of the second season of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) in India -- said, "Virat has a point to prove and being in the World Cup, others need to watch out for him and I think he is going to dominate in the T20 World Cup. They say class is permanent has Virat has it all. Bowlers should be really worried for him."

Kohli is the fifth-highest run-getter in T20 WC history, second-most among Indians, with 845 runs including two Player-of-the-Tournament awards (in 2013 and 2016).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-t20i-virat-kohli-only-35-runs-away-from-leapfrogging-rohit-sharma-in-elite-list-520504">IND vs SA, 1st T20I: Virat Kohli only 35 runs away from leapfrogging Rohit Sharma in elite list</a>

On Rohit &amp; Co.'s chances of winning the T20 WC title, Edwards opined, "India is one of the best teams around playing T20 cricket. I am hoping to see them perform well in Australia. Bumrah is a real talent and he is going to come good in Australia. So I don't think India should be worried about their bowling attack. In fact, other teams should be worried about India."

India host SA in three T20Is, starting on Wednesday (September 28), before leaving for Australia for the T20 WC. In their opening fixture, they face Pakistan&nbsp;at the MCG, Melbourne on October 23.

Indian cricket fans breathed a sigh of relief during the Asia Cup with Virat Kohli returning to form. The 33-year-old former Indian skipper was out of action from international cricket, after the end of the England tour, and missed the entire white-ball tour of West Indies and the three ODIs versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation.

Indian cricket fans breathed a sigh of relief during the Asia Cup with Virat Kohli returning to form. The 33-year-old former Indian skipper was out of action from international cricket, after the end of the England tour, and missed the entire white-ball tour of West Indies and the three ODIs versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation. However, the break seemed to have worked wonders for Kohli who regained form in the Asia Cup, in the UAE. The right-hander returned with scores of 35, 59*, 60, 0, 122* to end as the second-highest run-getter in the tournament (276 runs in five outings) despite Rohit Sharma-led India's dismal campaign, where they failed to enter the final. He continued his good form in the India-Australia home T20Is, ending on a high with a crucial 63 in the final encounter that helped India clinch the series 2-1. Ahead of India's last T20I series -- where they face South Africa -- before departing for Australia for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, former West Indies pacer Fidel Edwards has made a bold claim on Kohli. In an exclusive interaction with Times Now, Edwards -- who is part of the second season of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) in India -- said, "Virat has a point to prove and being in the World Cup, others need to watch out for him and I think he is going to dominate in the T20 World Cup. They say class is permanent has Virat has it all. Bowlers should be really worried for him." Kohli is the fifth-highest run-getter in T20 WC history, second-most among Indians, with 845 runs including two Player-of-the-Tournament awards (in 2013 and 2016). ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st T20I: Virat Kohli only 35 runs away from leapfrogging Rohit Sharma in elite list On Rohit & Co.'s chances of winning the T20 WC title, Edwards opined, "India is one of the best teams around playing T20 cricket. I am hoping to see them perform well in Australia. Bumrah is a real talent and he is going to come good in Australia. So I don't think India should be worried about their bowling attack. In fact, other teams should be worried about India." India host SA in three T20Is, starting on Wednesday (September 28), before leaving for Australia for the T20 WC. In their opening fixture, they face Pakistan at the MCG, Melbourne on October 23.

Virat Kohli is going to dominate T20 World Cup, predicts former West Indies pacer

Suryakumar Yadav has been in a run-scoring spree in the shortest format. After slamming his maiden international ton in England during the T20I series in early July, Surya notched up half-centuries in the West Indies series and the Asia Cup. In the recently-concluded India-Australia T20Is at home, he was once again among runs and ended the series with scores of 46 (25), 0 (1) and 69 (36). Returning with an entertaining knock in the series decider in Hyderabad on Sunday evening (September 25), SKY ended as the Player-of-the-Match as India chased down 187 versus Aaron Finch &amp; Co. to win the series 2-1.

After the series, Surya has been earning applause from all across the cricketing fraternity and many expect him to be one of the key players for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held in Australia in October-November. 
 
Following the Australia T20Is, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a bold claim on the 31-year-old Surya.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaneria said, "I have been saying this for a while now, Suryakumar Yadav is one of the best. With his 360-degree repertoire, I'd say that the sky is high. The way he bats, it's like he is announcing himself. He was outstanding in the third T20I."

<section>
"He has a different way of playing and he is surely going to be a very big player. The way he bats, he will make people forget all the other batting greats. Yes, Kohli will score a lot of runs and Babar will be very successful, but Yadav will leave everyone behind," the 41-year-old asserted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/give-me-any-medicine-suryakumar-recalls-how-he-battled-fever-before-match-winning-knock-vs-australia-519799">Give me any medicine: Suryakumar recalls how he battled fever before match-winning knock vs Australia</a>

Kaneria also lauded Virat Kohli, who scored a crucial 63 in the Hyderabad T20I, as the former Indian captain stitched a vital 104-run third-wicket stand with Surya. "Kohli guided Yadav well, and there was a clear understanding between them. The Australian bowlers had no answers against these two batters. If they continue to bat this way, India will surely overpower every team in the T20 World Cup," Kaneria added.

<section>Surya will look to carry on in a similar stead in the forthcoming South Africa T20Is, to be held in India starting on September 28 (Wednesday). After the Proteas series, India's T20 WC-bound players will leave for Australia for the upcoming showpiece event Down Under.</section>
</section>

Suryakumar Yadav has been in a run-scoring spree in the shortest format. After slamming his maiden international ton in England during the T20I series in early July, Surya notched up half-centuries in the West Indies series and the Asia Cup.

Suryakumar Yadav has been in a run-scoring spree in the shortest format. After slamming his maiden international ton in England during the T20I series in early July, Surya notched up half-centuries in the West Indies series and the Asia Cup. In the recently-concluded India-Australia T20Is at home, he was once again among runs and ended the series with scores of 46 (25), 0 (1) and 69 (36). Returning with an entertaining knock in the series decider in Hyderabad on Sunday evening (September 25), SKY ended as the Player-of-the-Match as India chased down 187 versus Aaron Finch & Co. to win the series 2-1. After the series, Surya has been earning applause from all across the cricketing fraternity and many expect him to be one of the key players for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held in Australia in October-November. Following the Australia T20Is, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a bold claim on the 31-year-old Surya. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaneria said, "I have been saying this for a while now, Suryakumar Yadav is one of the best. With his 360-degree repertoire, I'd say that the sky is high. The way he bats, it's like he is announcing himself. He was outstanding in the third T20I." "He has a different way of playing and he is surely going to be a very big player. The way he bats, he will make people forget all the other batting greats. Yes, Kohli will score a lot of runs and Babar will be very successful, but Yadav will leave everyone behind," the 41-year-old asserted. ALSO READ | Give me any medicine: Suryakumar recalls how he battled fever before match-winning knock vs Australia Kaneria also lauded Virat Kohli, who scored a crucial 63 in the Hyderabad T20I, as the former Indian captain stitched a vital 104-run third-wicket stand with Surya. "Kohli guided Yadav well, and there was a clear understanding between them. The Australian bowlers had no answers against these two batters. If they continue to bat this way, India will surely overpower every team in the T20 World Cup," Kaneria added. Surya will look to carry on in a similar stead in the forthcoming South Africa T20Is, to be held in India starting on September 28 (Wednesday). After the Proteas series, India's T20 WC-bound players will leave for Australia for the upcoming showpiece event Down Under.

Former Pakistan spinner lauds Indian batter, expects him to leave Virat Kohli & Babar Azam behind

Since the Super Four round in the Asia Cup, India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's form has seen a dip. The speedster went for plenty in the death overs versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka before rediscovering some form in the inconsequential tie versus Afghanistan, where he finished his full quota of overs before the end of the halfway mark.

In India's Super Four clash versus Pakistan, Bhuvi leaked 19 runs after Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. posted 181-7&nbsp;after being asked to bat first. On the other hand, he failed to contain the run-flow in Men in Blue's next encounter, versus eventual winners Sri Lanka, as the 32-year-old conceded 14 runs while once again being entrusted to bowl the penultimate over during the opposition's run-chase. Thus, Bhuvi's flop shows at the death overs contributed in India's twin defeats.

Durnig the series opener of the three T20Is versus Australia, which ended on Sunday (Septemebr 25), Bhuvi conceded 16 runs in Aussies' run-chase of 209 in Mohali. Even in the series finale, the pacer went for 21 runs in the 18th over of Australia's innings when they were asked to bat first. Thus, the king of swing's form remains a cause of concern for India heading into the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. India's T20 World Cup medallist S Sreesanth has now shared some words of advice for Bhuvi, while interacting with Hindustan Times on the sidelines of Delhi leg of the ongoing 'Legends League Cricket'.

“He has done up good batsmen. Even if you bowl good balls, there are 60-70% chances of being hit. Sometimes, it works out and sometimes it doesn’t. We have to support Bhuvneshwar Kumar, just like (we have to support) Dinesh Karthik when it comes to batting. I’m very confident about his experience and ability to swing the ball; he has a back-of-the-length slower ball, he has got the knuckle ball. If he varies his pace on the hard bouncy wickets, he will get good help on Australian pitches,” Sreesanth said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-guy-whos-damn-self-confident-sanjay-manjrekar-reacts-as-virat-kohli-regains-form-520138">'This is a guy who’s damn self-confident' - Sanjay Manjrekar reacts as Virat Kohli regains form</a>

“If Bhuvneshwar Kumar is listening to this – most often they don’t do it – but my only request is to never ever stop believing in your abilities. Sometimes, you really stop believing in your abilities. Sometimes, you get confused. Sometimes, you read a lot, and watch a lot of videos. Sometimes, you listen to a lot of opinions on the commentary. Even I have done that; everyone goes through that phase. But you got to believe in the immense ability that has got you here and made you the king. You got to believe in the higher power and trust your work ethics," revealed Sreesanth, who was part of the MS Dhoni-led victorious Indian team who lifted the 2007 T20 WC in South Africa.

Sreesanth further backed Bhuvi and lauded him for his work ethics. “Bhuvneshwar’s work ethics are superb. When he was at the Vijay Hazare, he was at the gym, he was at the pool. He wanted to do more and more. It’s great to see that even now, he works hard. See, everyone is talking about the 19th over, but I’m telling you, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is going to do extremely well in Australia,” concluded the former pacer.

Since the Super Four round in the Asia Cup, India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's form has seen a dip. The speedster went for plenty in the death overs versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka before rediscovering some form in the inconsequential tie versus Afghanistan, where he finished his full quota of overs before the end of the halfway mark.

Since the Super Four round in the Asia Cup, India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's form has seen a dip. The speedster went for plenty in the death overs versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka before rediscovering some form in the inconsequential tie versus Afghanistan, where he finished his full quota of overs before the end of the halfway mark. In India's Super Four clash versus Pakistan, Bhuvi leaked 19 runs after Rohit Sharma & Co. posted 181-7 after being asked to bat first. On the other hand, he failed to contain the run-flow in Men in Blue's next encounter, versus eventual winners Sri Lanka, as the 32-year-old conceded 14 runs while once again being entrusted to bowl the penultimate over during the opposition's run-chase. Thus, Bhuvi's flop shows at the death overs contributed in India's twin defeats. Durnig the series opener of the three T20Is versus Australia, which ended on Sunday (Septemebr 25), Bhuvi conceded 16 runs in Aussies' run-chase of 209 in Mohali. Even in the series finale, the pacer went for 21 runs in the 18th over of Australia's innings when they were asked to bat first. Thus, the king of swing's form remains a cause of concern for India heading into the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. India's T20 World Cup medallist S Sreesanth has now shared some words of advice for Bhuvi, while interacting with Hindustan Times on the sidelines of Delhi leg of the ongoing 'Legends League Cricket'. “He has done up good batsmen. Even if you bowl good balls, there are 60-70% chances of being hit. Sometimes, it works out and sometimes it doesn’t. We have to support Bhuvneshwar Kumar, just like (we have to support) Dinesh Karthik when it comes to batting. I’m very confident about his experience and ability to swing the ball; he has a back-of-the-length slower ball, he has got the knuckle ball. If he varies his pace on the hard bouncy wickets, he will get good help on Australian pitches,” Sreesanth said. ALSO READ | 'This is a guy who’s damn self-confident' - Sanjay Manjrekar reacts as Virat Kohli regains form “If Bhuvneshwar Kumar is listening to this – most often they don’t do it – but my only request is to never ever stop believing in your abilities. Sometimes, you really stop believing in your abilities. Sometimes, you get confused. Sometimes, you read a lot, and watch a lot of videos. Sometimes, you listen to a lot of opinions on the commentary. Even I have done that; everyone goes through that phase. But you got to believe in the immense ability that has got you here and made you the king. You got to believe in the higher power and trust your work ethics," revealed Sreesanth, who was part of the MS Dhoni-led victorious Indian team who lifted the 2007 T20 WC in South Africa. Sreesanth further backed Bhuvi and lauded him for his work ethics. “Bhuvneshwar’s work ethics are superb. When he was at the Vijay Hazare, he was at the gym, he was at the pool. He wanted to do more and more. It’s great to see that even now, he works hard. See, everyone is talking about the 19th over, but I’m telling you, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is going to do extremely well in Australia,” concluded the former pacer.

'If Bhuvneshwar Kumar is listening...' - India's T20 WC medallist shares his two cents for out-of-form pacer

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket with the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. After a break, post the England tour, the 33-year-old's return was keenly observed. The right-hander had a torrid time in England and ended without a single half-century across formats. Thus, his return to form was much awaited by the Team India fans.

Much to the delight of Indian cricket team and its ardent supporters, Kohli ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament where India failed to reach the final. Kohli ended with 276 runs in five outings, including two half-centuries and a hundred. In the recently-concluded India-Australia T20Is, at home, Kohli continued to contribute with the bat. In the series opener, he fell for 2 (7) and departed for a quickfire 11 in the rain-curtailed second and penultimate T20I before scoring a crucial 63 in the final encounter, in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25) to help India win the series 2-1.

'Virat&nbsp;Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident'

Seeing Kohli among runs, right before the T20 World Cup which gets underway in Australia from next month, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar lauded the former Indian captain. He believes Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident. “See, right from the Asia Cup every match that he got runs, not just the runs, there was some improvement coming. I think the power game is back, he’s trusting his power game. There was a time when he was getting runs but his power game was not coming at his beck and call, that is starting to happen. He’s dispatching good balls for big boundaries and sixes," Manjrekar said while&nbsp;speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-spinner-lauds-indian-batter-expects-him-to-leave-virat-kohli-babar-azam-behind-520032">Former Pakistan spinner lauds Indian batter, expects him to leave Virat Kohli &amp; Babar Azam behind</a>

"It’s all about confidence, this is a guy who’s damn self-confident and drives himself to excellence but for long-time runs weren’t coming and his confidence was tender. But during the Asia Cup, slowly and steadily, certain things start to happen, the pull shots came in, and the sixes started going more into the stands than just going over the rope as it was going in the IPL. So, the pieces falling back to frame the perfect picture. Now it’s all about putting all these kinds of performances in the main event,” Manjrekar further explained.

Kohli-starrer India will next face South Africa, at home, in a three-match T20I series starting on September 28 (Wednesday).

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket with the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. After a break, post the England tour, the 33-year-old's return was keenly observed.

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket with the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. After a break, post the England tour, the 33-year-old's return was keenly observed. The right-hander had a torrid time in England and ended without a single half-century across formats. Thus, his return to form was much awaited by the Team India fans. Much to the delight of Indian cricket team and its ardent supporters, Kohli ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament where India failed to reach the final. Kohli ended with 276 runs in five outings, including two half-centuries and a hundred. In the recently-concluded India-Australia T20Is, at home, Kohli continued to contribute with the bat. In the series opener, he fell for 2 (7) and departed for a quickfire 11 in the rain-curtailed second and penultimate T20I before scoring a crucial 63 in the final encounter, in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25) to help India win the series 2-1. 'Virat Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident' Seeing Kohli among runs, right before the T20 World Cup which gets underway in Australia from next month, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar lauded the former Indian captain. He believes Kohli is someone who is damn self-confident. “See, right from the Asia Cup every match that he got runs, not just the runs, there was some improvement coming. I think the power game is back, he’s trusting his power game. There was a time when he was getting runs but his power game was not coming at his beck and call, that is starting to happen. He’s dispatching good balls for big boundaries and sixes," Manjrekar said while speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’ ALSO READ | Former Pakistan spinner lauds Indian batter, expects him to leave Virat Kohli & Babar Azam behind "It’s all about confidence, this is a guy who’s damn self-confident and drives himself to excellence but for long-time runs weren’t coming and his confidence was tender. But during the Asia Cup, slowly and steadily, certain things start to happen, the pull shots came in, and the sixes started going more into the stands than just going over the rope as it was going in the IPL. So, the pieces falling back to frame the perfect picture. Now it’s all about putting all these kinds of performances in the main event,” Manjrekar further explained. Kohli-starrer India will next face South Africa, at home, in a three-match T20I series starting on September 28 (Wednesday).

'This is a guy who’s damn self-confident' - Sanjay Manjrekar reacts as Virat Kohli regains form

Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia by six wickets in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25) in what was the series decider of the three T20Is between the two heavyweight teams. With the series evenly poised at 1-1, the home side went past Aaron Finch-led Australia by chasing 187 on the penultimate ball of the contest to take the series 2-1.&nbsp;

With this win, skipper Rohit also attained a huge feat. He surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to take the second spot in the list of most wins as India's T20I captain. Former captain MS Dhoni, who led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup title, remains at the top but Rohit has gone past Virat and will now aim to take the top spot in future.

Most T20I wins as Indian captain

42 - MS Dhoni, in 72 matches

33 - Rohit Sharma, in 42 matches

32 - Virat Kohli, in 50 matches

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rohit-co-break-pakistans-t20i-world-record-with-thrilling-series-win-over-world-champions-519682">Ind vs Aus: Rohit &amp; Co. break Pakistan's T20I world record with thrilling series win over world champions</a>

Following India's six-wicket win in Hyderabad, Rohit pointed out at the post-match presentation, "Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. Margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometime it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well."

At the Hyderabad T20I, India opted to bowl first and rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 to restrict Australia to 186-7, courtesy of Cameron Green's 52, Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 not out. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav's impressive 69, off 36 balls, and Virat's crucial 63 laid the foundation for the Men in Blue before Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not-out closed the run-chase for India.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia by six wickets in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25) in what was the series decider of the three T20Is between the two heavyweight teams.

Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia by six wickets in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25) in what was the series decider of the three T20Is between the two heavyweight teams. With the series evenly poised at 1-1, the home side went past Aaron Finch-led Australia by chasing 187 on the penultimate ball of the contest to take the series 2-1. With this win, skipper Rohit also attained a huge feat. He surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to take the second spot in the list of most wins as India's T20I captain. Former captain MS Dhoni, who led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup title, remains at the top but Rohit has gone past Virat and will now aim to take the top spot in future. Most T20I wins as Indian captain 42 - MS Dhoni, in 72 matches 33 - Rohit Sharma, in 42 matches 32 - Virat Kohli, in 50 matches ALSO READ | Ind vs Aus: Rohit & Co. break Pakistan's T20I world record with thrilling series win over world champions Following India's six-wicket win in Hyderabad, Rohit pointed out at the post-match presentation, "Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. Margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometime it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well." At the Hyderabad T20I, India opted to bowl first and rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 to restrict Australia to 186-7, courtesy of Cameron Green's 52, Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 not out. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav's impressive 69, off 36 balls, and Virat's crucial 63 laid the foundation for the Men in Blue before Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not-out closed the run-chase for India.

Rohit Sharma surpasses Virat Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain

After levelling the three-match T20I series in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia in the decider on Sunday (September 25) in a thrilling run-chase in Hyderabad. Being asked to bat first, Aaron Finch-led Aussies were off to a flier courtesy of Cameron Green's blitz (21-ball 52) before Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 off 20 balls propelled the visitors to a competitive 186-7. In reply, Rohit &amp; Co. chased down the score on the penultimate ball of the contest with six wickets in hand.

Reeling at 30 for 2, India rode on a 104-run third-wicket stand between half-centurions Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) to initiate the hosts' recovery before Hardik Pandya (16-ball 25 not out) took them past the finish line. With this series win, right before the T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November,&nbsp;the Men in Blue have now set a new world record for the most T20I victories in a calendar year by a team. India move past arch-rivals Pakistan's record which they set last year (2021). India earned their 21st win in the format after the Hyderabad face-off versus Australia whereas Babar Azam's Pakistan had notched up 20 victories last year.&nbsp;

Most T20I wins in a year

India - 21 in 29 matches - 2022

Pakistan - 20 in 29 matches - 2021

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-and-suryakumar-smash-brilliant-fifties-as-india-beat-australia-by-6-wickets-in-3rd-t20i-to-clinch-series-519606">Kohli and Suryakumar smash brilliant fifties as India beat Australia by 6 wickets in 3rd T20I to clinch series</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "It's a special place. We have had great memories playing for India and when I played for Deccan Chargers as well. Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. The margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometimes it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well. Not easy coming back after a break against a tough team. They (Bumrah and Harshal) will take some time. Hopefully, they can get back into their groove in the next series."

India will now shift their focus to the three-match T20I series versus South Africa, at home, which gets underway on September 28 (Wednesday).&nbsp;

After levelling the three-match T20I series in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia in the decider on Sunday (September 25) in a thrilling run-chase in Hyderabad.

After levelling the three-match T20I series in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Australia in the decider on Sunday (September 25) in a thrilling run-chase in Hyderabad. Being asked to bat first, Aaron Finch-led Aussies were off to a flier courtesy of Cameron Green's blitz (21-ball 52) before Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 28 off 20 balls propelled the visitors to a competitive 186-7. In reply, Rohit & Co. chased down the score on the penultimate ball of the contest with six wickets in hand. Reeling at 30 for 2, India rode on a 104-run third-wicket stand between half-centurions Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) to initiate the hosts' recovery before Hardik Pandya (16-ball 25 not out) took them past the finish line. With this series win, right before the T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November, the Men in Blue have now set a new world record for the most T20I victories in a calendar year by a team. India move past arch-rivals Pakistan's record which they set last year (2021). India earned their 21st win in the format after the Hyderabad face-off versus Australia whereas Babar Azam's Pakistan had notched up 20 victories last year. Most T20I wins in a year India - 21 in 29 matches - 2022 Pakistan - 20 in 29 matches - 2021 ALSO READ | Kohli and Suryakumar smash brilliant fifties as India beat Australia by 6 wickets in 3rd T20I to clinch series At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "It's a special place. We have had great memories playing for India and when I played for Deccan Chargers as well. Biggest positive was different individuals stepping up and delivering. You feel good about it as a management. The margin of error in T20s is small. We took our chances, we were brave as well. Sometimes it doesn't come off. There are areas to improve as well. Not easy coming back after a break against a tough team. They (Bumrah and Harshal) will take some time. Hopefully, they can get back into their groove in the next series." India will now shift their focus to the three-match T20I series versus South Africa, at home, which gets underway on September 28 (Wednesday).

Ind vs Aus: Rohit & Co. break Pakistan's T20I world record with thrilling series win over world champions

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were in India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, a second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team ended the series in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see how the series pans out this time around with both teams being at their full-strength.

The T20Is have more prominence given the T20 World Cup is just a few weeks away, in Australia from October 16. The series will be followed by three ODIs as well where, as per reports, India will be without many of their T20 WC-bound players. In their absence, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to take charge of the side once again and lead an inexperienced line-up.&nbsp;

In terms of rankings, India are the No. 1 T20I side with Proteas at the third position. In the ICC ODI rankings, India are placed at the third spot with the visitors at the sixth position. Here's everything you need to know about SA's white-ball tour of India:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-strengthen-lead-at-the-top-in-icc-t20i-rankings-with-thrilling-series-win-vs-australia-519787">India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia</a>

Full Schedule

T20I series

1st T20I at Thiruvananthapuram (September 28)

2nd T20I at Guwahati (October 02)

3rd T20I at Indore (October 04)

ODI series

1st ODI at Lucknow (October 6)

2nd ODI at Ranchi (October 9)

3rd ODI at Delhi (October 11)

Squads

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

South Africa T20I squad:&nbsp;Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa ODI squad:&nbsp;Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi.

India's ODI squad: Not announced yet

Telecast and Streaming details

All three T20Is will get underway at 7pm IST whereas the 50-over fixtures will commence at 1:30 PM IST. The live telecast of the white-ball matches will be on Star Sports Network on TV with the live streaming available on the Disney+Hotstar app and website.

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home.

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were in India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, a second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team ended the series in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see how the series pans out this time around with both teams being at their full-strength. The T20Is have more prominence given the T20 World Cup is just a few weeks away, in Australia from October 16. The series will be followed by three ODIs as well where, as per reports, India will be without many of their T20 WC-bound players. In their absence, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to take charge of the side once again and lead an inexperienced line-up. In terms of rankings, India are the No. 1 T20I side with Proteas at the third position. In the ICC ODI rankings, India are placed at the third spot with the visitors at the sixth position. Here's everything you need to know about SA's white-ball tour of India: ALSO READ | India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia Full Schedule T20I series 1st T20I at Thiruvananthapuram (September 28) 2nd T20I at Guwahati (October 02) 3rd T20I at Indore (October 04) ODI series 1st ODI at Lucknow (October 6) 2nd ODI at Ranchi (October 9) 3rd ODI at Delhi (October 11) Squads India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa T20I squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs. South Africa ODI squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi. India's ODI squad: Not announced yet Telecast and Streaming details All three T20Is will get underway at 7pm IST whereas the 50-over fixtures will commence at 1:30 PM IST. The live telecast of the white-ball matches will be on Star Sports Network on TV with the live streaming available on the Disney+Hotstar app and website.

South Africa's white-ball tour of India: Fixtures, squads, telecast and streaming details

India's T20 World Cup squad was announced last week, on September 12. The squad features majority of them who appeared in the Asia Cup 2022 edition and also saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. The reserves comprise Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar.&nbsp;

After a disappointing Asia Cup, India will try to regain form in their home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively, before heading to&nbsp;the T20 WC in Aaron Finch &amp; Co.'s&nbsp;backyard. Prior to the Australia T20Is, which gets underway on Tuesday (September 20), captain Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke on who will accompany him in the opening slot Down Under.

Rohit said&nbsp;in&nbsp;a press conference, "Virat Kohli is our third opener and he will open in some of the games. In the last match of Asia Cup, we were happy with the way he played. But KL Rahul will open the batting in the World Cup, we do not want to experiment with that position a lot,&nbsp;his performance sometimes goes quite unnoticed."

"He (Rahul)&nbsp;is a very important player for Team India. For us, I just want to make it clear, we are clear in our thought process. We do not have any confusion, we are very clear what KL Rahul brings to the table for us, he is a quality player and is very important for us. His presence at the top is very crucial for us," Hitman added.

However, a tv anchor became a butt of all jokes after he announced that Rahul Gandhi -- popular Indian politician and former Congress President -- will open for India at the T20 WC, instead of KL Rahul.&nbsp;

"Bharatiya team ke kaptaan Rohit Sharma ne kaha ki T20 World Cup mein open karenge Rahul Gandhi. Virat Kohli ko bhi kai match mein pen karna pad sakta hai," (Team India captain&nbsp;Rohit Sharma has revealed that Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli too may have to open in some games) said the anchor. The&nbsp;video of the same has gone&nbsp;viral instantly.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-never-see-a-when-a-batter-kl-rahul-on-his-t20i-strike-rate-before-australia-series-opener-517788">'You never see when a batter...' - KL Rahul on his T20I strike rate before Australia series opener</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rahul Gandhi will open for India in T20 World Cup: India TV anchor 😂 <a href="https://t.co/1NWWg9jp7c">pic.twitter.com/1NWWg9jp7c</a>
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/GemsOfCricket/status/1571555481688350720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanju-samson-could-be-a-better-option-over-rishabh-pant-ex-pak-spinner-analyses-indias-t20-wc-squad-518085">Sanju Samson could be a better option over Rishabh Pant: Ex-Pak spinner analyses India's T20 WC squad</a>

Both Rahul-Rohit are currently involved in India's three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, at the PCA Stadium, Mohali on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, the journalist of a&nbsp;Hindi-dialect&nbsp;media channel&nbsp;has been trolled massively online for his slip of tongue.

India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Standby players -&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

India's T20 World Cup squad was announced last week, on September 12. The squad features majority of them who appeared in the Asia Cup 2022 edition and also saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel.

India's T20 World Cup squad was announced last week, on September 12. The squad features majority of them who appeared in the Asia Cup 2022 edition and also saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. The reserves comprise Md Shami, Ravi Bishnoi, Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar. After a disappointing Asia Cup, India will try to regain form in their home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively, before heading to the T20 WC in Aaron Finch & Co.'s backyard. Prior to the Australia T20Is, which gets underway on Tuesday (September 20), captain Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke on who will accompany him in the opening slot Down Under. Rohit said in a press conference, "Virat Kohli is our third opener and he will open in some of the games. In the last match of Asia Cup, we were happy with the way he played. But KL Rahul will open the batting in the World Cup, we do not want to experiment with that position a lot, his performance sometimes goes quite unnoticed." "He (Rahul) is a very important player for Team India. For us, I just want to make it clear, we are clear in our thought process. We do not have any confusion, we are very clear what KL Rahul brings to the table for us, he is a quality player and is very important for us. His presence at the top is very crucial for us," Hitman added. However, a tv anchor became a butt of all jokes after he announced that Rahul Gandhi -- popular Indian politician and former Congress President -- will open for India at the T20 WC, instead of KL Rahul. "Bharatiya team ke kaptaan Rohit Sharma ne kaha ki T20 World Cup mein open karenge Rahul Gandhi. Virat Kohli ko bhi kai match mein pen karna pad sakta hai," (Team India captain Rohit Sharma has revealed that Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli too may have to open in some games) said the anchor. The video of the same has gone viral instantly. ALSO READ | 'You never see when a batter...' - KL Rahul on his T20I strike rate before Australia series opener Rahul Gandhi will open for India in T20 World Cup: India TV anchor 😂 pic.twitter.com/1NWWg9jp7c — Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) September 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | Sanju Samson could be a better option over Rishabh Pant: Ex-Pak spinner analyses India's T20 WC squad Both Rahul-Rohit are currently involved in India's three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, at the PCA Stadium, Mohali on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, the journalist of a Hindi-dialect media channel has been trolled massively online for his slip of tongue. India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

Watch - 'Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup, says tv anchor as video goes viral

Team India is struggling to finalise their team combination with the T20 World Cup not even a month away. India faltered in the Super Four round in the Asia Cup and also lost the three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, in Mohali on Tuesday (September 20), with their death bowling continuing to be their biggest concern ahead of the T20 WC in Australia, from October-November.

India's bowlers were hammered all around the park in the T20I series opener versus Australia, with all the bowlers -- apart from Axar Patel -- conceding in excess of 11 runs per over. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose death bowling was abysmal versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, conceded 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal Patel went for 22 runs in the penultimate over as Australia chased down 208-run target with four wickets in hand, in 19.2 overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1st-t20i-sunil-gavaskar-points-out-rohit-cos-real-concern-after-defeat-in-mohali-run-feast-518417">Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Sunil Gavaskar points out Rohit &amp; Co.'s 'real concern' after defeat in Mohali run-feast</a>

Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I between India and Australia, to be held in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra admitted that hopes of India winning the forthcoming World Cup is 'a bit less'. "Yuzi Chahal continues to bowl faster. How will you get wickets if you don't bowl slower at all? The reality is that India have a weak bowling line-up and the hopes of winning the World Cup are a bit less. You need to win the remaining games or else you will lose the series against a side that is without its four main players," Chopra opined on his Youtube channel.

Chopra further asserted that even Jasprit Bumrah's return might not solve India's bowling woes unless others step up. Bumrah is expected to play the second T20I after he wasn't rushed into the playing XI for the Mohali encounter having recently recovered from a back injury, which kept him out of the Asia Cup. "One bowler can't come and completely change everything. This is the sad reality. What happened to MI this year when they had just Bumrah? They didn't win much, right? So, except for a game where you take 5–6 wickets, you won't make a lot of difference with just one bowler," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/concerned-selectors-to-talk-to-indian-team-management-after-bowlers-flop-show-in-mohali-t20i-report-518623">'Concerned' selectors to 'talk to Indian team management' after bowlers' flop show in Mohali T20I - Report</a>

After the defeat in Mohali, captain Rohit had said in the post-match presentation, "I don't think we bowled well. 200 is a good score to defend, and we didn't take our chances in the field. It was a great effort from our batters, but bowlers were not quite there. There are things we need to look at, but it was a great game for us to understand what went wrong."

Team India is struggling to finalise their team combination with the T20 World Cup not even a month away. India faltered in the Super Four round in the Asia Cup and also lost the three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, in Mohali on Tuesday (September 20), with their death bowling continuing to be their biggest concern ahead of the T20 WC in Australia, from October-November.

Team India is struggling to finalise their team combination with the T20 World Cup not even a month away. India faltered in the Super Four round in the Asia Cup and also lost the three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, in Mohali on Tuesday (September 20), with their death bowling continuing to be their biggest concern ahead of the T20 WC in Australia, from October-November. India's bowlers were hammered all around the park in the T20I series opener versus Australia, with all the bowlers -- apart from Axar Patel -- conceding in excess of 11 runs per over. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose death bowling was abysmal versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, conceded 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal Patel went for 22 runs in the penultimate over as Australia chased down 208-run target with four wickets in hand, in 19.2 overs. ALSO READ | Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Sunil Gavaskar points out Rohit & Co.'s 'real concern' after defeat in Mohali run-feast Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I between India and Australia, to be held in Nagpur on Friday (September 23), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra admitted that hopes of India winning the forthcoming World Cup is 'a bit less'. "Yuzi Chahal continues to bowl faster. How will you get wickets if you don't bowl slower at all? The reality is that India have a weak bowling line-up and the hopes of winning the World Cup are a bit less. You need to win the remaining games or else you will lose the series against a side that is without its four main players," Chopra opined on his Youtube channel. Chopra further asserted that even Jasprit Bumrah's return might not solve India's bowling woes unless others step up. Bumrah is expected to play the second T20I after he wasn't rushed into the playing XI for the Mohali encounter having recently recovered from a back injury, which kept him out of the Asia Cup. "One bowler can't come and completely change everything. This is the sad reality. What happened to MI this year when they had just Bumrah? They didn't win much, right? So, except for a game where you take 5–6 wickets, you won't make a lot of difference with just one bowler," he added. ALSO READ | 'Concerned' selectors to 'talk to Indian team management' after bowlers' flop show in Mohali T20I - Report After the defeat in Mohali, captain Rohit had said in the post-match presentation, "I don't think we bowled well. 200 is a good score to defend, and we didn't take our chances in the field. It was a great effort from our batters, but bowlers were not quite there. There are things we need to look at, but it was a great game for us to understand what went wrong."

Hopes of winning T20 World Cup are a bit less, admits Aakash Chopra amid India's bowling woes

After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India managed to restrict Australia to 186-7 in the third and final T20I on Sunday evening (September 25) in Hyderabad. Given it has been a high-scoring series, Australia had a competitive total on the board but Aaron Finch &amp; Co. would've fancied anything over the 200-run mark.&nbsp;

Riding on Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's 27-ball 54, Australia had a good total after the end of 20 overs. Axar Patel once again stood tall with the ball, claiming 3 for 33 before the onus fell on the Indian batters in the second-half. In reply, India were 30 fro 2 before Virat Kohli's 63 and Suryakumar Yadav's match-winning 69, off 36 deliveries at a whopping 191.67, initiated their recovery. Eventually, Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out took India past the finish line to win the bilateral T20I series on home soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-strengthen-lead-at-the-top-in-icc-t20i-rankings-with-thrilling-series-win-vs-australia-519787">India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia</a>

After the intense encounter, where India toppled Australia on the penultimate ball of the contest, Player-of-the-Series Axar (with eight scalps overall) interacted with SKY, who ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the series finale. During the chat, the swashbuckling batter Surya revealed how he battled fever to be match-ready.

"Kya hua tha raat ko?&nbsp;(What happened last night)?" asked Axar on BCCI.tv.&nbsp;Yeh problem actually aap bhi face kar rahe the, yeh mujhe team meeting mein pata chala&nbsp;(You were also facing the same issue, and I got to know about it in the team meeting)," responded Surya.

<section>
"Weather change hua aur phir ab naya travelling bhi chalu hua hai uske wajah se thoda stomach ache ho raha tha phir fever bhi aa gaya but at the same time pata bhi tha ki decider game hai&nbsp;(The weather changed last night and there has been a lot of travelling as well. Due to&nbsp;all of this, I'd a stomach ache and got fever as well, but at the same time I knew that it was a series decider).

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
From setting the stage on fire to a special pre-match tale! 🔥 😎 
 
Men of the hour - <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> - discuss it all after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s T20I series win against Australia in Hyderabad. 👍 👍- By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a> 
 
Full interview 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/rfPgcGyO0H">https://t.co/rfPgcGyO0H</a> <a href="https://t.co/rDWz9Zwh3h">pic.twitter.com/rDWz9Zwh3h</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1574247389388410881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-go-bonkers-celebrate-wildly-after-india-win-t20i-series-vs-australia-519779">Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia</a>

"Toh main apne doctor and physio ko wahi bola ki agar yeh World Cup ka final hoga toh main kaise react karunga. Main aisa bimari leke baith nahi sakta hu. Toh aap kaise bhi karke, kuch bhi karo koi bhi goli do kuch bhi injection do lekin merko shaam ke game ke liye ready kar do (So I told my doctor and the physio that if there is a World Cup final how will I react? I can't sit for such reasons. Do whatever it takes, give me any medicine or injection but get me ready for the match in the evening)."

Ek baar ground pe aa gaye, yeh jersey pehen lya toh phir emotion hi alag hai&nbsp;(Once I'm on the ground wearing the India jersey then the emotion is&nbsp;different altogether)," Surya added.

SKY's heroics and Axar's key breakthroughs helped India beat Australia and clinch the series after conceding a 1-0 lead.
</section>

After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India managed to restrict Australia to 186-7 in the third and final T20I on Sunday evening (September 25) in Hyderabad.

After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India managed to restrict Australia to 186-7 in the third and final T20I on Sunday evening (September 25) in Hyderabad. Given it has been a high-scoring series, Australia had a competitive total on the board but Aaron Finch & Co. would've fancied anything over the 200-run mark. Riding on Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's 27-ball 54, Australia had a good total after the end of 20 overs. Axar Patel once again stood tall with the ball, claiming 3 for 33 before the onus fell on the Indian batters in the second-half. In reply, India were 30 fro 2 before Virat Kohli's 63 and Suryakumar Yadav's match-winning 69, off 36 deliveries at a whopping 191.67, initiated their recovery. Eventually, Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out took India past the finish line to win the bilateral T20I series on home soil. ALSO READ | India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia After the intense encounter, where India toppled Australia on the penultimate ball of the contest, Player-of-the-Series Axar (with eight scalps overall) interacted with SKY, who ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the series finale. During the chat, the swashbuckling batter Surya revealed how he battled fever to be match-ready. "Kya hua tha raat ko? (What happened last night)?" asked Axar on BCCI.tv. Yeh problem actually aap bhi face kar rahe the, yeh mujhe team meeting mein pata chala (You were also facing the same issue, and I got to know about it in the team meeting)," responded Surya. "Weather change hua aur phir ab naya travelling bhi chalu hua hai uske wajah se thoda stomach ache ho raha tha phir fever bhi aa gaya but at the same time pata bhi tha ki decider game hai (The weather changed last night and there has been a lot of travelling as well. Due to all of this, I'd a stomach ache and got fever as well, but at the same time I knew that it was a series decider). From setting the stage on fire to a special pre-match tale! 🔥 😎 Men of the hour - @surya_14kumar & @akshar2026 - discuss it all after #TeamIndia's T20I series win against Australia in Hyderabad. 👍 👍- By @RajalArora Full interview 🔽 #INDvAUS https://t.co/rfPgcGyO0H pic.twitter.com/rDWz9Zwh3h — BCCI (@BCCI) September 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia "Toh main apne doctor and physio ko wahi bola ki agar yeh World Cup ka final hoga toh main kaise react karunga. Main aisa bimari leke baith nahi sakta hu. Toh aap kaise bhi karke, kuch bhi karo koi bhi goli do kuch bhi injection do lekin merko shaam ke game ke liye ready kar do (So I told my doctor and the physio that if there is a World Cup final how will I react? I can't sit for such reasons. Do whatever it takes, give me any medicine or injection but get me ready for the match in the evening)." Ek baar ground pe aa gaye, yeh jersey pehen lya toh phir emotion hi alag hai (Once I'm on the ground wearing the India jersey then the emotion is different altogether)," Surya added. SKY's heroics and Axar's key breakthroughs helped India beat Australia and clinch the series after conceding a 1-0 lead.

Give me any medicine: Suryakumar recalls how he battled fever before match-winning knock vs Australia

India beat Australia by six wickets in a thrilling 187-run chase in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25), to win the series 2-1. After levelling the series in the second and penultimate T20I in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue opted to bowl first at the Rajiv Gandhi&nbsp;International Stadium, Hyderabad on Sunday evening.

Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's whirlwind 54 propelled the Aaron Finch-led Australia to a competitive 186-7 in 20 overs. They missed out on posting anything over 200 but still fancied their chances despite India's strong batting line-up. In reply, India were soon reduced to 30 for 2 before fifties from Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) stood tall for the home side and brought them back into the contest. In the end overs, the match went down to the wire before all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out propelled India to a thrilling six-wicket series win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-go-bonkers-celebrate-wildly-after-india-win-t20i-series-vs-australia-519779">Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia</a>

After the series victory, India have bolstered their lead at the top of the ICC T20I rankings. India are now seven points clear of second-ranked England, who lost the fourth T20I of their ongoing seven-match series versus hosts Pakistan in Karachi on Sunday evening. India have a total of 268 rating points followed by England (261) whereas the likes of South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and Australia follow suit.

The likes of West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan come next to complete the top ten. Given that India have another home series coming up, they will like to maintain their strong record in familiar conditions and consolidate their top spot before heading into the T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. Nonetheless, India won't have it easy as they next face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in a three-match T20I series starting on Wednesday (September 28).&nbsp;

India beat Australia by six wickets in a thrilling 187-run chase in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25), to win the series 2-1. After levelling the series in the second and penultimate T20I in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue opted to bowl first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Sunday evening.

India beat Australia by six wickets in a thrilling 187-run chase in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25), to win the series 2-1. After levelling the series in the second and penultimate T20I in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue opted to bowl first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Sunday evening. Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's whirlwind 54 propelled the Aaron Finch-led Australia to a competitive 186-7 in 20 overs. They missed out on posting anything over 200 but still fancied their chances despite India's strong batting line-up. In reply, India were soon reduced to 30 for 2 before fifties from Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) stood tall for the home side and brought them back into the contest. In the end overs, the match went down to the wire before all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out propelled India to a thrilling six-wicket series win. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia After the series victory, India have bolstered their lead at the top of the ICC T20I rankings. India are now seven points clear of second-ranked England, who lost the fourth T20I of their ongoing seven-match series versus hosts Pakistan in Karachi on Sunday evening. India have a total of 268 rating points followed by England (261) whereas the likes of South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and Australia follow suit. The likes of West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan come next to complete the top ten. Given that India have another home series coming up, they will like to maintain their strong record in familiar conditions and consolidate their top spot before heading into the T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. Nonetheless, India won't have it easy as they next face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in a three-match T20I series starting on Wednesday (September 28).

India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia

India and Australia were involved in another high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20I, in Hyderabad, on Sunday evening (September 25). With the series levelled at 1-1, the stakes were high and the two heavyweights produced another thrilling contest where Rohit Sharma-led India won the clash on the penultimate ball to clinch the series 2-1.

The match went down to the wire, with India needing 11 off six balls. While Virat Kohli smashed a six off&nbsp;the first ball, he fell for 63 on the very next delivery. Hardik Pandya, who remained unbeaten on 25 off 16 balls, maintained his calm and hit the winning runs&nbsp;-- with four needed off two balls -- to take India past the finish line in front of a jam-packed stadium. As soon as Hardik did the job for India and completed the run-chase in style, cleverly opening the face of the bat to steer the ball towards the third-man region for a boundary -- skipper Rohit and Virat Kohli broke into wild celebrations sitting at the staircase of the Indian dressing room.&nbsp;

Here's the viral video of Rohit-Kohli going bonkers and celebrating wildly as India won the T20I series versus the current world champions:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Best moment of this T20I series - Bond of Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma. RohiRat celebration.♥️ <a href="https://t.co/fXGjOridJZ">pic.twitter.com/fXGjOridJZ</a>
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImTanujSingh/status/1574315888203157506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
</div>

<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-surpasses-virat-kohli-to-become-indias-second-most-successful-t20i-captain-519695">Rohit Sharma surpasses Virat Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain</a>

Opting to bowl first, India rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 but the likes of Cameron Green (52), Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 20-ball 28 propelled Australia to a competitive 186-7. In reply, India were reduced to 30 for 2 with the openers, KL Rahul and Rohit, falling cheaply before half-centurions Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav (who returned with the Player-of-the-Match award for his scintillating 36-ball 69, laced with 5 fours and sixes each) steadied the ship with an impressive 104-run third-wicket stand before Hardik's finishing skills stood out.

India will now face South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

India and Australia were involved in another high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20I, in Hyderabad, on Sunday evening (September 25). With the series levelled at 1-1, the stakes were high and the two heavyweights produced another thrilling contest where Rohit Sharma-led India won the clash on the penultimate ball to clinch the series 2-1.

India and Australia were involved in another high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20I, in Hyderabad, on Sunday evening (September 25). With the series levelled at 1-1, the stakes were high and the two heavyweights produced another thrilling contest where Rohit Sharma-led India won the clash on the penultimate ball to clinch the series 2-1. The match went down to the wire, with India needing 11 off six balls. While Virat Kohli smashed a six off the first ball, he fell for 63 on the very next delivery. Hardik Pandya, who remained unbeaten on 25 off 16 balls, maintained his calm and hit the winning runs -- with four needed off two balls -- to take India past the finish line in front of a jam-packed stadium. As soon as Hardik did the job for India and completed the run-chase in style, cleverly opening the face of the bat to steer the ball towards the third-man region for a boundary -- skipper Rohit and Virat Kohli broke into wild celebrations sitting at the staircase of the Indian dressing room. Here's the viral video of Rohit-Kohli going bonkers and celebrating wildly as India won the T20I series versus the current world champions: Best moment of this T20I series - Bond of Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma. RohiRat celebration.♥️ pic.twitter.com/fXGjOridJZ — CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) September 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma surpasses Virat Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain Opting to bowl first, India rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 but the likes of Cameron Green (52), Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 20-ball 28 propelled Australia to a competitive 186-7. In reply, India were reduced to 30 for 2 with the openers, KL Rahul and Rohit, falling cheaply before half-centurions Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav (who returned with the Player-of-the-Match award for his scintillating 36-ball 69, laced with 5 fours and sixes each) steadied the ship with an impressive 104-run third-wicket stand before Hardik's finishing skills stood out. India will now face South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson lavished huge praise on India's vice-captain and opener KL Rahul. Ahead of the three-match T20I series opener between India and Australia, in Mohali on Tuesday evening (September 20), Watson revealed that the 30-year-old Rahul is one of his favourite players.

Watson, part of Australia's 2003 and 2007 ODI World Cup victories, stated that he is in awe of Rahul's effortless striking and put him in the same bracket featuring Babar Azam and also added Suryakumar Yadav in it. He, however, stated that 'he is right up there' and drew comparisons with former Aussie great Damien Martyn.

“When it comes to style, KL Rahul has always been one of my favourite players. His skills, how effortlessly he takes on fast bowling, spin... He has got all the shots in the book, and he times the ball so beautifully. When I look at him batting, it makes me think of Damien Martyn, and the grace he had when he played. He hit the ball hard but it looks like he didn't try to hit the ball hard at all,” Watson said during a conversation on the&nbsp;ICC Review ahead of the India-Australia Mohali T20I.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-becomes-third-fastest-to-2000-t20i-runs-during-blistering-knock-vs-australia-in-mohali-518137">KL Rahul becomes third-fastest to 2,000 T20I runs during blistering knock vs Australia in Mohali</a>

“In recent times, Suryakumar Yadav certainly got that style as well. Babar Azam as well, can't go past him. But when it comes to KL Rahul, he's just right up there. He just takes on the best bowlers in the world with so much ease. It's not that easy!” added the&nbsp;former Aussie star.

Rahul returned to international cricket in mid-August, since February early this year, and had an ordinary run in the Zimbabwe ODIs and Asia Cup. While he slammed a 41-ball 62 in the inconsequential tie versus Afghanistan in the continental tournament, won by Sri Lanka, Rahul came to his own in the T20I series opener versus Aaron Finch's Australia on Tuesday evening.

With captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli falling for cheap, Rahul's 35-ball 55 and Hardik Pandya's 71 propelled India to 208-6. In reply, Australia rode on Cameron Green's 61 and Matthew's 45 not out to chase down the target with four wickets in hand.

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson lavished huge praise on India's vice-captain and opener KL Rahul. Ahead of the three-match T20I series opener between India and Australia, in Mohali on Tuesday evening (September 20), Watson revealed that the 30-year-old Rahul is one of his favourite players.

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson lavished huge praise on India's vice-captain and opener KL Rahul. Ahead of the three-match T20I series opener between India and Australia, in Mohali on Tuesday evening (September 20), Watson revealed that the 30-year-old Rahul is one of his favourite players. Watson, part of Australia's 2003 and 2007 ODI World Cup victories, stated that he is in awe of Rahul's effortless striking and put him in the same bracket featuring Babar Azam and also added Suryakumar Yadav in it. He, however, stated that 'he is right up there' and drew comparisons with former Aussie great Damien Martyn. “When it comes to style, KL Rahul has always been one of my favourite players. His skills, how effortlessly he takes on fast bowling, spin... He has got all the shots in the book, and he times the ball so beautifully. When I look at him batting, it makes me think of Damien Martyn, and the grace he had when he played. He hit the ball hard but it looks like he didn't try to hit the ball hard at all,” Watson said during a conversation on the ICC Review ahead of the India-Australia Mohali T20I. ALSO READ | KL Rahul becomes third-fastest to 2,000 T20I runs during blistering knock vs Australia in Mohali “In recent times, Suryakumar Yadav certainly got that style as well. Babar Azam as well, can't go past him. But when it comes to KL Rahul, he's just right up there. He just takes on the best bowlers in the world with so much ease. It's not that easy!” added the former Aussie star. Rahul returned to international cricket in mid-August, since February early this year, and had an ordinary run in the Zimbabwe ODIs and Asia Cup. While he slammed a 41-ball 62 in the inconsequential tie versus Afghanistan in the continental tournament, won by Sri Lanka, Rahul came to his own in the T20I series opener versus Aaron Finch's Australia on Tuesday evening. With captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli falling for cheap, Rahul's 35-ball 55 and Hardik Pandya's 71 propelled India to 208-6. In reply, Australia rode on Cameron Green's 61 and Matthew's 45 not out to chase down the target with four wickets in hand.

He makes me think of Damien Martyn: Shane Watson lavishes praise on India batter

Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and Australia, to be held in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25), an unfortunate incident took place at the&nbsp;Gymkhana ground. With fans coming in large numbers to buy tickets, they had to wait for quite some time before the situation went out of control with the cricket fans&nbsp;causing law and order issues.&nbsp;

Hence, a stampede broke out after the cops found it tough to manage the crowd. The video of the incident has gone viral in no time. Here's the clip:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Telangana: A stampede broke out at Gymkhana Ground after a huge crowd of cricket fans gathered there to get tickets for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUS</a> match, scheduled for 25th Sept at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad. Police baton charged to disperse the crowd 
 
4 people injured <a href="https://t.co/J2OiP1DMlH">pic.twitter.com/J2OiP1DMlH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1572845156398923776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/concerned-selectors-to-talk-to-indian-team-management-after-bowlers-flop-show-in-mohali-t20i-report-518623">'Concerned' selectors to 'talk to Indian team management' after bowlers' flop show in Mohali T20I - Report</a>

As per reports, four people got injured following the stampede and were rushed into the hospital. Moreover, some police personnel also&nbsp;went unconscious due to the injuries in the aftermath of the incident in Hyderabad.&nbsp;

Talking about the India-Australia T20Is, the series opener was held at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Tuesday evening (September 20). Being asked to bat first, the Rohit Sharma-led line-up posted 208 for 6 riding on KL Rahul's 35-ball 55, Hardik Pandya's 71 not out and Suryakumar Yadav's 46. In reply, Australia chased down the score, their highest run-chase versus India in the format, with the help of Cameron Green's 61 and Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out.&nbsp;

The second and penultimate tie will be held on Friday evening (September 23) in Nagpur before the series finale in Hyderabad, on Sunday.

Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and Australia, to be held in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25), an unfortunate incident took place at the Gymkhana ground.

Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and Australia, to be held in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 25), an unfortunate incident took place at the Gymkhana ground. With fans coming in large numbers to buy tickets, they had to wait for quite some time before the situation went out of control with the cricket fans causing law and order issues. Hence, a stampede broke out after the cops found it tough to manage the crowd. The video of the incident has gone viral in no time. Here's the clip: #WATCH | Telangana: A stampede broke out at Gymkhana Ground after a huge crowd of cricket fans gathered there to get tickets for #INDvsAUS match, scheduled for 25th Sept at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad. Police baton charged to disperse the crowd 4 people injured pic.twitter.com/J2OiP1DMlH — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Concerned' selectors to 'talk to Indian team management' after bowlers' flop show in Mohali T20I - Report As per reports, four people got injured following the stampede and were rushed into the hospital. Moreover, some police personnel also went unconscious due to the injuries in the aftermath of the incident in Hyderabad. Talking about the India-Australia T20Is, the series opener was held at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Tuesday evening (September 20). Being asked to bat first, the Rohit Sharma-led line-up posted 208 for 6 riding on KL Rahul's 35-ball 55, Hardik Pandya's 71 not out and Suryakumar Yadav's 46. In reply, Australia chased down the score, their highest run-chase versus India in the format, with the help of Cameron Green's 61 and Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out. The second and penultimate tie will be held on Friday evening (September 23) in Nagpur before the series finale in Hyderabad, on Sunday.

IND vs AUS, 3rd T20I: Stampede in Hyderabad as fans come in large numbers for tickets - Watch

India lost to Australia in the first of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Being asked to bat first, India lost captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early but rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's 71 not out to post a tall score, of 208 for 6 in 20 overs.

In reply, Australia were cruising at 108 for 1 at the halfway stage before a collapse saw them being reduced to 145-5 in 14.1 overs. At that stage, it seemed like India will edge past Australia but the T20 world champions rode on Matthew Wade's 45 not out, off 21 balls, after Cameron Green's impressive 61 to win by four wickets in 19.2 overs. In this way, the Aussies recorded their highest T20I run-chase versus the 2007 champions.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-trying-to-do-a-litte-bit-more-sunil-gavaskar-explains-reason-behind-rohit-sharmas-struggles-for-india-518345">He is trying to do a litte bit more: Sunil Gavaskar explains reason behind Rohit Sharma's struggles for India</a>

After the contest, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned India's 'real concern heading into the T20 World Cup, from next month in Australia. "I don't think there was too much dew. We didn't see the fielders or bowlers trying to use the towel to try and dry their fingers. That's not an excuse. We didn't bowl well. For example, that 19th over... that's a real concern,” Gavaskar said on&nbsp;Sports Today&nbsp;following the game.

“Somebody like a Bhuvneshwar Kumar is going for runs every single time, when he is expected.. in 18 deliveries he has bowled in three matches against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and now Australia, he has given away 49 runs. It is almost three runs per ball. Somebody with his experience and calibre, you expect he will give 35-36 runs in those 18 deliveries. That really is an area of concern,” pointed out the&nbsp;ex-Indian skipper.

Bhuvi leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries in Mohali. Even in India's Super Four games versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the experienced pacer gave away 19 and 14 runs, respectively, as Rohit &amp; Co. lost both the fixtures.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-a-superior-player-says-ex-aussie-opener-after-india-prefer-dinesh-karthik-in-mohali-t20i-518402">Rishabh Pant is a superior player, says ex-Aussie opener after India prefer Dinesh Karthik in Mohali T20I</a>

Gavaskar further pinned his hopes on Jasprit Bumrah's comeback to revive India's death-bowling. "What we have seen in last few years is that has been one of the areas where India have suffered. They have not been able to defend good&nbsp;scores. Maybe when (Jasprit) Bumrah comes in it might be a completely different situation because he gets wickets at the top. India didn't get those today as Australia got off to a flying start,”Gavaskar added.

Bumrah was given some time to return to international cricket, having last played during the England ODIs, but is expected to appear in India's must-win game versus Australia, on Friday (September 23) in Nagpur.

India lost to Australia in the first of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Being asked to bat first, India lost captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early but rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's 71 not out to post a tall score, of 208 for 6 in 20 overs.

India lost to Australia in the first of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Being asked to bat first, India lost captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early but rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's 71 not out to post a tall score, of 208 for 6 in 20 overs. In reply, Australia were cruising at 108 for 1 at the halfway stage before a collapse saw them being reduced to 145-5 in 14.1 overs. At that stage, it seemed like India will edge past Australia but the T20 world champions rode on Matthew Wade's 45 not out, off 21 balls, after Cameron Green's impressive 61 to win by four wickets in 19.2 overs. In this way, the Aussies recorded their highest T20I run-chase versus the 2007 champions. ALSO READ | He is trying to do a litte bit more: Sunil Gavaskar explains reason behind Rohit Sharma's struggles for India After the contest, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned India's 'real concern heading into the T20 World Cup, from next month in Australia. "I don't think there was too much dew. We didn't see the fielders or bowlers trying to use the towel to try and dry their fingers. That's not an excuse. We didn't bowl well. For example, that 19th over... that's a real concern,” Gavaskar said on Sports Today following the game. “Somebody like a Bhuvneshwar Kumar is going for runs every single time, when he is expected.. in 18 deliveries he has bowled in three matches against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and now Australia, he has given away 49 runs. It is almost three runs per ball. Somebody with his experience and calibre, you expect he will give 35-36 runs in those 18 deliveries. That really is an area of concern,” pointed out the ex-Indian skipper. Bhuvi leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries in Mohali. Even in India's Super Four games versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the experienced pacer gave away 19 and 14 runs, respectively, as Rohit & Co. lost both the fixtures. ALSO READ | Rishabh Pant is a superior player, says ex-Aussie opener after India prefer Dinesh Karthik in Mohali T20I Gavaskar further pinned his hopes on Jasprit Bumrah's comeback to revive India's death-bowling. "What we have seen in last few years is that has been one of the areas where India have suffered. They have not been able to defend good scores. Maybe when (Jasprit) Bumrah comes in it might be a completely different situation because he gets wickets at the top. India didn't get those today as Australia got off to a flying start,”Gavaskar added. Bumrah was given some time to return to international cricket, having last played during the England ODIs, but is expected to appear in India's must-win game versus Australia, on Friday (September 23) in Nagpur.

Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Sunil Gavaskar points out Rohit & Co.'s 'real concern' after defeat in Mohali run-feast

India faced Australia in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India were expected to start off with a win in home conditions, however, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue failed to defend 208/6 and lost the game in the last over by four wickets.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 35-ball 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46, and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 30-ball 71 not out to post 208 for 6 in their full quota of overs. In reply, Australia were off to a flier courtesy of makeshift opener Cameron Green's 61 before Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out took his side home with fours wickets and an equal number of balls to spare.

In the post-match press conference, all-rounder Hardik addressed the media and gave a sarcastic reply when asked by a reporter to reveal the 'turning point' of the contest.

"Aap batao, mujhe nahi pata, humko pata hota toh wahi nahi rok dete na. (You tell me, I don't know. Had we known about it, we would've stopped them in the field)", Hardik said in response to the question from a journalist's question; leaving everyone baffled.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-record-highest-t20i-run-chase-vs-india-win-mohali-run-feast-by-4-wickets-518180">Australia record highest T20I run-chase vs India, win Mohali run-feast by 4 wickets</a>

Hardik further asserted, "Dekho sir, pinpoint nahi kar sakte. Unke time pe bhi ek over mein 24-25 run aye, usse kuch farak nahi padta. Bilateral series hai, aur do matches hai usmein koshish karenge kuch achchha karne ki. (Sir, we can't pinpoint on a single over, they also conceded 24-25 runs in an over. We&nbsp;still have two more games in the series and, hence,&nbsp;we will try to make a comeback)."

At the halfway mark in the run-chase, Australia was marching ahead being well-placed at 109-1. However, India reduced them to 145 for 5 in 14.1 overs and were favourites with the Aussies needing 40 off 18 balls. Nonetheless, Bhuvneshwar Kumar leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal Patel was smacked for 22 runs in the penultimate over as the visitors achieved a 1-0 lead.

At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit pointed out, "I don't think we bowled well. 200 is a good score to defend, and we didn't take our chances in the field. It was a great effort from our batters, but bowlers were not quite there. There are things we need to look at, but it was a great game for us to understand what went wrong. We know this is a high-scoring ground. You can't relax even if you get 200. We took wickets to an extent, but they played really well. They played some extraordinary shots. If I was in that changing room, I would expect to chase that total. You can back yourself to defend 60 runs in the final 4 overs. We were not able to take that extra wicket. That was the turning point, if we would have taken another wicket, things would have been different."

India faced Australia in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India were expected to start off with a win in home conditions, however, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue failed to defend 208/6 and lost the game in the last over by four wickets.

India faced Australia in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India were expected to start off with a win in home conditions, however, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue failed to defend 208/6 and lost the game in the last over by four wickets. Being asked to bat first, India rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 35-ball 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46, and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 30-ball 71 not out to post 208 for 6 in their full quota of overs. In reply, Australia were off to a flier courtesy of makeshift opener Cameron Green's 61 before Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out took his side home with fours wickets and an equal number of balls to spare. In the post-match press conference, all-rounder Hardik addressed the media and gave a sarcastic reply when asked by a reporter to reveal the 'turning point' of the contest. "Aap batao, mujhe nahi pata, humko pata hota toh wahi nahi rok dete na. (You tell me, I don't know. Had we known about it, we would've stopped them in the field)", Hardik said in response to the question from a journalist's question; leaving everyone baffled. ALSO READ | Australia record highest T20I run-chase vs India, win Mohali run-feast by 4 wickets Hardik further asserted, "Dekho sir, pinpoint nahi kar sakte. Unke time pe bhi ek over mein 24-25 run aye, usse kuch farak nahi padta. Bilateral series hai, aur do matches hai usmein koshish karenge kuch achchha karne ki. (Sir, we can't pinpoint on a single over, they also conceded 24-25 runs in an over. We still have two more games in the series and, hence, we will try to make a comeback)." At the halfway mark in the run-chase, Australia was marching ahead being well-placed at 109-1. However, India reduced them to 145 for 5 in 14.1 overs and were favourites with the Aussies needing 40 off 18 balls. Nonetheless, Bhuvneshwar Kumar leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal Patel was smacked for 22 runs in the penultimate over as the visitors achieved a 1-0 lead. At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit pointed out, "I don't think we bowled well. 200 is a good score to defend, and we didn't take our chances in the field. It was a great effort from our batters, but bowlers were not quite there. There are things we need to look at, but it was a great game for us to understand what went wrong. We know this is a high-scoring ground. You can't relax even if you get 200. We took wickets to an extent, but they played really well. They played some extraordinary shots. If I was in that changing room, I would expect to chase that total. You can back yourself to defend 60 runs in the final 4 overs. We were not able to take that extra wicket. That was the turning point, if we would have taken another wicket, things would have been different."

'You tell me, I don't know' - Hardik Pandya tells reporter when asked about 'turning point' in Mohali T20I

Before the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November, India are involved in a three-match T20I series versus Australia, at home, and will then host South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before heading to the showpiece event. Since the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have disappointed their fans with their performances and their main concern remains death bowling.

India leaked runs in the death overs in their Super Four face-off versus Pakistan and the script remained the same versus Sri Lanka as well (losing both the games in the last over). In the three-match T20I series opener versus T20 world champions Australia, India posted 208 for 6 -- their highest score in the format versus Australia -- but failed to defend it as Aaron Finch &amp; Co. won by four wickets in 19.2 overs courtesy of Cameron Green's 61 and Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out.&nbsp;

India had reduced Australia to 145-5, at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, after they were cruising at 109 for 1 at the halfway mark. However, the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Hardik Pandya, Umesh Yadav&nbsp;and Yuzvendra Chahal leaked runs -- with each going in excess of 11 an over -- whereas spinner Axar Patel was the only impressive bowler, conceding 3 for 17. Bhuvi, the most experienced of the lot, leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal gave away 22 in the penultimate over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-should-drop-to-no3-virat-kohli-can-open-ex-pak-cricketers-absurd-suggestion-to-team-india-518438">Rohit Sharma should drop to no.3, Virat Kohli can open: Ex-Pak cricketer's absurd suggestion to Team India</a>

After the match, the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management remains concerned with the death-bowling woes. As per a report in InsideSport, the BCCI selectors also remain 'concerned' and will talk to the team management to address the bowling issues before the T20 WC Down Under.

"Of course, it’s a concern when our bowlers cannot defend 208. But there is time and you have to understand that the Mohali pitch was batting heaven. So, it would not be ideal to discard them based on one match. We will talk to the team management on the help they need to make this work," one of the selectors was quoted as saying by InsideSport.

"Jasprit is still not 100%, Harshal has just returned, and a senior campaigner like Bhuvneshwar has a dip in form at the worst possible time. So, it’s concerning. Umesh has returned from injury, so he was a bit off the rhythm. They will bounce back," the selector added.

Since the T20 WC will be held in Australia, a place where bowlers are offered good conditions, Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and Bhuvneshwar’s dip in form have kept the selectors worried.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1st-t20i-sunil-gavaskar-points-out-rohit-cos-real-concern-after-defeat-in-mohali-run-feast-518417">Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Sunil Gavaskar points out Rohit &amp; Co.'s 'real concern' after defeat in Mohali run-feast</a>

Bumrah, who is returning from a back injury which ruled him out of the Asia Cup, missed the Australia T20I series opener. He is likely to be part of the second and penultimate tie with the series on the line. The selectors, Indian team management and fans will hope for the bowlers to come good in their remaining encounters in the run-up to the marquee tournament in Australia, from next month.

Before the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November, India are involved in a three-match T20I series versus Australia, at home, and will then host South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before heading to the showpiece event.

Before the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia from October-November, India are involved in a three-match T20I series versus Australia, at home, and will then host South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before heading to the showpiece event. Since the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Rohit Sharma & Co. have disappointed their fans with their performances and their main concern remains death bowling. India leaked runs in the death overs in their Super Four face-off versus Pakistan and the script remained the same versus Sri Lanka as well (losing both the games in the last over). In the three-match T20I series opener versus T20 world champions Australia, India posted 208 for 6 -- their highest score in the format versus Australia -- but failed to defend it as Aaron Finch & Co. won by four wickets in 19.2 overs courtesy of Cameron Green's 61 and Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out. India had reduced Australia to 145-5, at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, after they were cruising at 109 for 1 at the halfway mark. However, the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Hardik Pandya, Umesh Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal leaked runs -- with each going in excess of 11 an over -- whereas spinner Axar Patel was the only impressive bowler, conceding 3 for 17. Bhuvi, the most experienced of the lot, leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal gave away 22 in the penultimate over. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma should drop to no.3, Virat Kohli can open: Ex-Pak cricketer's absurd suggestion to Team India After the match, the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management remains concerned with the death-bowling woes. As per a report in InsideSport, the BCCI selectors also remain 'concerned' and will talk to the team management to address the bowling issues before the T20 WC Down Under. "Of course, it’s a concern when our bowlers cannot defend 208. But there is time and you have to understand that the Mohali pitch was batting heaven. So, it would not be ideal to discard them based on one match. We will talk to the team management on the help they need to make this work," one of the selectors was quoted as saying by InsideSport. "Jasprit is still not 100%, Harshal has just returned, and a senior campaigner like Bhuvneshwar has a dip in form at the worst possible time. So, it’s concerning. Umesh has returned from injury, so he was a bit off the rhythm. They will bounce back," the selector added. Since the T20 WC will be held in Australia, a place where bowlers are offered good conditions, Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and Bhuvneshwar’s dip in form have kept the selectors worried. ALSO READ | Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Sunil Gavaskar points out Rohit & Co.'s 'real concern' after defeat in Mohali run-feast Bumrah, who is returning from a back injury which ruled him out of the Asia Cup, missed the Australia T20I series opener. He is likely to be part of the second and penultimate tie with the series on the line. The selectors, Indian team management and fans will hope for the bowlers to come good in their remaining encounters in the run-up to the marquee tournament in Australia, from next month.

'Concerned' selectors to 'talk to Indian team management' after bowlers' flop show in Mohali T20I - Report

Team India failed to defend 208/6 versus Australia in the opening encounter of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20). Being asked to bat first, at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, Rohit Sharma-led India rode on KL Rahul's 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 71 not out to post a mammoth score, their highest T20I score versus the current T20 champions, but lost the contest in the last over, with Australia emerging on top by four wickets.

Thus, Indian cricket fans continue to remain concerned by the team's performances as their graph has gone down since the start of the Super Four round in the Asia Cup 2022 edition. After dominating the group stage of the continental tournament in the UAE, India lost their opening two games in the Super Four round -- versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka respectively -- to bow out of the race for the final and are now trailing Australia 0-1 in the home T20Is.

However, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has backed Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team and isn't bothered by two or three losses. "India have lost the last two-three matches. But India has a very good graph. Look at Rohit Sharma's graph as captain. He has done well. His winning percentage is 82 percent. He had captained nearly 35 matches and had lost only 3-4 matches. I know Rohit Sharma and Coach Rahul Dravid are really concerned about the team. I hope they will make a comeback at Nagpur. I am not at all concerned about 2 or 3 losses. They had a talk with a team, and hopefully, they will make a comeback soon," Ganguly told India Today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-disheartened-pessimistic-manjrekar-on-indias-asia-cup-performance-opines-on-loss-vs-australia-518742">'Was disheartened &amp; pessimistic' - Manjrekar on India's Asia Cup performance, opines on loss vs Australia</a>

Ganguly further breathed a sigh of relief with Virat Kohli returning to form and hopes for other key players to stand tall in the T20 World Cup, to commence from next month. "India will travel to Australia some weeks ago before the World Cup. I am hopeful that India will do well and that they are prepared enough for the tournament. Virat Kohli is an important part of India's team in the World Cup. But India has to play well. Everyone has to play well, starting with Kohli, Rohit, Pandya, and all. It's very good news that Virat is back in form. I hope it will continue," added the former Indian captain.

Rohit-led India will meet Australia in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (September 23) in Nagpur and hope to level the series.

Team India failed to defend 208/6 versus Australia in the opening encounter of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20). Being asked to bat first, at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, Rohit Sharma-led India rode on KL Rahul's 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 71 not out to post a mammoth score, their highest T20I score versus the current T20 champions, but lost the contest in the last over, with Australia emerging on top by four wickets.

Team India failed to defend 208/6 versus Australia in the opening encounter of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20). Being asked to bat first, at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, Rohit Sharma-led India rode on KL Rahul's 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 71 not out to post a mammoth score, their highest T20I score versus the current T20 champions, but lost the contest in the last over, with Australia emerging on top by four wickets. Thus, Indian cricket fans continue to remain concerned by the team's performances as their graph has gone down since the start of the Super Four round in the Asia Cup 2022 edition. After dominating the group stage of the continental tournament in the UAE, India lost their opening two games in the Super Four round -- versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka respectively -- to bow out of the race for the final and are now trailing Australia 0-1 in the home T20Is. However, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has backed Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team and isn't bothered by two or three losses. "India have lost the last two-three matches. But India has a very good graph. Look at Rohit Sharma's graph as captain. He has done well. His winning percentage is 82 percent. He had captained nearly 35 matches and had lost only 3-4 matches. I know Rohit Sharma and Coach Rahul Dravid are really concerned about the team. I hope they will make a comeback at Nagpur. I am not at all concerned about 2 or 3 losses. They had a talk with a team, and hopefully, they will make a comeback soon," Ganguly told India Today. ALSO READ | 'Was disheartened & pessimistic' - Manjrekar on India's Asia Cup performance, opines on loss vs Australia Ganguly further breathed a sigh of relief with Virat Kohli returning to form and hopes for other key players to stand tall in the T20 World Cup, to commence from next month. "India will travel to Australia some weeks ago before the World Cup. I am hopeful that India will do well and that they are prepared enough for the tournament. Virat Kohli is an important part of India's team in the World Cup. But India has to play well. Everyone has to play well, starting with Kohli, Rohit, Pandya, and all. It's very good news that Virat is back in form. I hope it will continue," added the former Indian captain. Rohit-led India will meet Australia in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (September 23) in Nagpur and hope to level the series.

'I'm not at all concerned' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly backs Team India, 'not bothered with 2 or 3 losses'

team-india

Team India, News on Team India, stories on Team India, articles on Team India, Team India stories at Wion, Team India news, Team India latest news

team india