India created history by winning their second successive Test series in Australia during the 2020/21 tour. After the first Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Virat Kohli-led India were trailing 1-0 post a shambolic performance in the opening match, which they lost by eight wickets.

After the series opener loss, India were without regular captain Kohli, who travelled back home for the birth of his first child. Hence, Ajinkya Rahane was the stand-in captain and&nbsp;had plethora of young guns at his disposal as India hoped for a turnaround. The visitors battled several odds -- injuries, reports of alleged bio-bubble breach, sledging, racial abuse, etc. -- to not only bounce back in style and but also ended&nbsp;Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at The Gabba, Brisbane in the series decider to eventually win 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-had-tears-rolling-tim-paine-recalls-md-sirajs-racism-incident-during-india-australia-sydney-test-490147">'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test</a>

In a recently-released documentary Badon mein tha Dum, celebrating India's historic series triumph Down Under in 2020/21, Rishabh Pant -- the then second-highest run-getter for the visitors -- shared an untold story about Shubman Gill. In a 328-run chase, on the final day of the series, Indian opener Gill scored a magnificent 91 to lay the foundation before Pant's 89 not out and Cheteshwar Pujara's gritty 56 took India home in the Brisbane Test.

Missing out on his maiden Test ton, Gill was livid with himself and Pant spoke about his reaction after being dismissed. "Gill and I had discussed that we wanted to win the match and not just draw it. Gill was hitting the pull shot, the cut shot. I was feeling happy because we had discussed it. In my mind, I had only one thought that we have to win. When Gill got out, he was furious after he came back. He was shouting, 'What have I done?' and was cursing himself. I told him… 'Don't worry, you have batted well'," said Pant on the docudrama.

Currently, both Pant and Gill are part of India's Test line-up, which is gearing up for their rescheduled fifth and final match versus Ben Stokes-led England, on July 1 in Edgbaston. The duo will now look to take India to their first-ever series win on English soil since 2007 as India lead the incomplete five-match Tests 2-1.

India created history by winning their second successive Test series in Australia during the 2020/21 tour. After the first Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Virat Kohli-led India were trailing 1-0 post a shambolic performance in the opening match, which they lost by eight wickets.

India created history by winning their second successive Test series in Australia during the 2020/21 tour. After the first Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Virat Kohli-led India were trailing 1-0 post a shambolic performance in the opening match, which they lost by eight wickets. After the series opener loss, India were without regular captain Kohli, who travelled back home for the birth of his first child. Hence, Ajinkya Rahane was the stand-in captain and had plethora of young guns at his disposal as India hoped for a turnaround. The visitors battled several odds -- injuries, reports of alleged bio-bubble breach, sledging, racial abuse, etc. -- to not only bounce back in style and but also ended Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at The Gabba, Brisbane in the series decider to eventually win 2-1. ALSO READ | 'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test In a recently-released documentary Badon mein tha Dum, celebrating India's historic series triumph Down Under in 2020/21, Rishabh Pant -- the then second-highest run-getter for the visitors -- shared an untold story about Shubman Gill. In a 328-run chase, on the final day of the series, Indian opener Gill scored a magnificent 91 to lay the foundation before Pant's 89 not out and Cheteshwar Pujara's gritty 56 took India home in the Brisbane Test. Missing out on his maiden Test ton, Gill was livid with himself and Pant spoke about his reaction after being dismissed. "Gill and I had discussed that we wanted to win the match and not just draw it. Gill was hitting the pull shot, the cut shot. I was feeling happy because we had discussed it. In my mind, I had only one thought that we have to win. When Gill got out, he was furious after he came back. He was shouting, 'What have I done?' and was cursing himself. I told him… 'Don't worry, you have batted well'," said Pant on the docudrama. Currently, both Pant and Gill are part of India's Test line-up, which is gearing up for their rescheduled fifth and final match versus Ben Stokes-led England, on July 1 in Edgbaston. The duo will now look to take India to their first-ever series win on English soil since 2007 as India lead the incomplete five-match Tests 2-1.

He shouted 'What have...': Pant recalls Gill's reaction after falling for 91 during Brisbane Test run-chase

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa.

As India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the hosts England, 'leader' Virat Kohli gave a passionate pep talk in the Team India huddle ahead of the visitors' three-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, starting on June 23.

Kohli and head coach Dravid were seen having a chat with the rest of the squad. Here's a video of Kohli's talk:

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Game mode = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> gives a 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 team talk ahead of a busy day of preparations before <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a>'s Tour Match 🆚 <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@leicsccc</a>. 
 
🎟️- <a href="https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym">https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym</a> 
 
🦊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTourMatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTourMatch</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LEIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LEIvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/zDxP53Slxd">pic.twitter.com/zDxP53Slxd</a>
— Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc/status/1539244572865400834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It has been reported that the 33-year-old Kohli&nbsp;spoke about 'closing in on history', with the Indian team chasing its first Test series win on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Dravid was in-charge of the side which created history by winning a three-match series 1-0.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-spent-a-lot-of-time-with-dhoni-virat-but-has-his-own-brand-of-captaincy-ex-india-stumper-490187">Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper</a>

Talking about Kohli, he was the captain of the Indian team when the five-match Test series between India and England took place last year. Before the final Test, which was set to be held in Manchester, the Indian camp was jolted by the Covid-19 crisis and, hence, the series decider was cancelled with the visitors 2-1 up in the series.

This time around, Kohli remains a vital cog in the Indian Test line-up, who is on the cusp of creating history, but Rohit Sharma has succeeded him as all-format captain. Under Rohit, India will be desperate to go for a win or, at least, ensure a draw to return with a Test series win in England.&nbsp;

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa.

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa. As India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the hosts England, 'leader' Virat Kohli gave a passionate pep talk in the Team India huddle ahead of the visitors' three-day practice game versus Leicestershire, starting on June 23. Kohli and head coach Dravid were seen having a chat with the rest of the squad. Here's a video of Kohli's talk: Game mode = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 💪@imVkohli gives a 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 team talk ahead of a busy day of preparations before @BCCI's Tour Match 🆚 @leicsccc. 🎟️- https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym 🦊 #IndiaTourMatch | #LEIvIND pic.twitter.com/zDxP53Slxd — Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) June 21, 2022 × It has been reported that the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about 'closing in on history', with the Indian team chasing its first Test series win on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Dravid was in-charge of the side which created history by winning a three-match series 1-0. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper Talking about Kohli, he was the captain of the Indian team when the five-match Test series between India and England took place last year. Before the final Test, which was set to be held in Manchester, the Indian camp was jolted by the Covid-19 crisis and, hence, the series decider was cancelled with the visitors 2-1 up in the series. This time around, Kohli remains a vital cog in the Indian Test line-up, who is on the cusp of creating history, but Rohit Sharma has succeeded him as all-format captain. Under Rohit, India will be desperate to go for a win or, at least, ensure a draw to return with a Test series win in England.

Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit & Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England

Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of&nbsp;Covid crisis in the Indian camp.

Ahead of the one-off Test, India are training hard in England as the squad is a well-oiled unit, with experience and young firepower. Cheteshwar Pujara, who was dropped from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, has been recalled into the line-up post his terrific run in County Championship -- where he returned with&nbsp;720 runs in 8 innings for Sussex, at an average of 120 with&nbsp;two double-tons. Thus, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lauded Pujara and stressed that his comeback is a lesson for all youngsters.

"You can learn so much from Pujara. If you get dropped, what do you have to do as a batter? You go back to County, you go back to Ranji and you score runs and runs and I mean, score tons and tons of runs. He has done that. He's an example for any young player who has been dropped and how to make a comeback. Probably you should go back to Pujara and watch what he has done in the last couple of months. He has been a fantastic player for India also. And I think he'll play No.3 for India," said Kaif while talking to NDTV during a media interaction.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-was-hit-by-covid-19-post-maldives-trip-more-cases-feared-in-indian-camp-ahead-of-eng-test-report-490539">Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report</a>

Test specialist Pujara hasn't scored a century for India since early 2019. His ordinary run during India's three-match series versus hosts South Africa in early 2022 led to his omission, however, the 34-year-old bounced back in a jiffy to regain his spot.

Pujara will be eager to carry his County form forward when he turns up for India in their upcoming Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. If India beat the hosts or, at least, ensures a draw, they will create history by winning their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Rahul Dravid was captain of the side.

Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp.

Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Ahead of the one-off Test, India are training hard in England as the squad is a well-oiled unit, with experience and young firepower. Cheteshwar Pujara, who was dropped from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, has been recalled into the line-up post his terrific run in County Championship -- where he returned with 720 runs in 8 innings for Sussex, at an average of 120 with two double-tons. Thus, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lauded Pujara and stressed that his comeback is a lesson for all youngsters. "You can learn so much from Pujara. If you get dropped, what do you have to do as a batter? You go back to County, you go back to Ranji and you score runs and runs and I mean, score tons and tons of runs. He has done that. He's an example for any young player who has been dropped and how to make a comeback. Probably you should go back to Pujara and watch what he has done in the last couple of months. He has been a fantastic player for India also. And I think he'll play No.3 for India," said Kaif while talking to NDTV during a media interaction. ALSO READ | Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report Test specialist Pujara hasn't scored a century for India since early 2019. His ordinary run during India's three-match series versus hosts South Africa in early 2022 led to his omission, however, the 34-year-old bounced back in a jiffy to regain his spot. Pujara will be eager to carry his County form forward when he turns up for India in their upcoming Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. If India beat the hosts or, at least, ensures a draw, they will create history by winning their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Rahul Dravid was captain of the side.

He's an example for any young player: Md Kaif heaps praise on Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of England Test

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

Though India couldn't win the series, they had plenty of takeaways and would be proud of their fighting spirit to bounce back from 0-2 down. Talking about Pant, he didn't start well as captain -- due to some poor bowling changes -- but improved as the series went by. Despite that, former World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels the 24-year-old youngster shouldn't have been named captain for the series.

"I would have stopped him from becoming captain. Wouldn't have allowed it. Because such a player needs to be given this responsibility later. Becoming an India captain is a big deal. He is a youngster. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. The longer he plays, he will gain more maturity," Lal said on Sports Tak.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hell-be-one-of-the-trumps-cards-gavaskar-feels-india-star-will-be-integral-to-rohits-t20-wc-plans-490324">'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans</a>

"Over the next two years, if he can take his game to the next level, then he can be a good captain, can deal with things maturely. This is a player of a different nature. MS Dhoni was a quiet and cool captain, which suited him as captain. Virat Kohli is a brilliant batter. I’m not saying Pant shouldn't be swinging his bat but if he can play with a little more maturity, it would be great," Lal explained further.

As a batter, Pant didn't have a great run as he only managed 58 runs at a woeful strike rate of 105.45. The left-hander will next be seen in India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 01.

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Though India couldn't win the series, they had plenty of takeaways and would be proud of their fighting spirit to bounce back from 0-2 down. Talking about Pant, he didn't start well as captain -- due to some poor bowling changes -- but improved as the series went by. Despite that, former World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels the 24-year-old youngster shouldn't have been named captain for the series. "I would have stopped him from becoming captain. Wouldn't have allowed it. Because such a player needs to be given this responsibility later. Becoming an India captain is a big deal. He is a youngster. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. The longer he plays, he will gain more maturity," Lal said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | 'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans "Over the next two years, if he can take his game to the next level, then he can be a good captain, can deal with things maturely. This is a player of a different nature. MS Dhoni was a quiet and cool captain, which suited him as captain. Virat Kohli is a brilliant batter. I’m not saying Pant shouldn't be swinging his bat but if he can play with a little more maturity, it would be great," Lal explained further. As a batter, Pant didn't have a great run as he only managed 58 runs at a woeful strike rate of 105.45. The left-hander will next be seen in India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 01.

Ind vs SA, T20Is: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. With the incomplete five-match series, which was originally set to end during the 2021 English summer, serving as a huge opportunity for the visitors to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007, Rohit &amp; Co. will leave no stone unturned to return victories as they already have an unassailable 2-1 lead.

While Rohit, Virat Kohli-starrer Team India is gearing up for their three-day practice game, versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, there is reportedly Covid-19 fear looming large in the Indian camp. According to a report in the Times of India, former captain Virat had tested positive for Covid-19 post his holiday in Maldives. He, however, recovered before joining the team. While he has returned negative, a few more players may have also tested positive for the deadly virus.

"Yes, Virat too was hit by Covid after returning from holidaying in Maldives, but he's recovered now,"&nbsp;a BCCI source told TOI.

"This now means that India's tour game against Leicestershire from June 24 won't be as intense as coach Rahul Dravid wanted it to be, since the medical advice is to not overload the players after they've suffered Covid-19. There could be more Covid cases in the team,"&nbsp;the source added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-gives-passionate-speech-in-team-india-huddle-as-rohit-co-gear-up-for-5th-test-vs-england-490503">Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit &amp; Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England</a>

It is to be noted that the incomplete five Tests between India and England had come to a sudden halt, on the day the series decider was to kick off in Manchester, due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. The visitors will not like to endure the same fate this time around. They are already without R Ashwin, who has tested positive and hasn't flown to England with both&nbsp;the batches of Indian Test players.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. With the incomplete five-match series, which was originally set to end during the 2021 English summer, serving as a huge opportunity for the visitors to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007, Rohit & Co. will leave no stone unturned to return victories as they already have an unassailable 2-1 lead. While Rohit, Virat Kohli-starrer Team India is gearing up for their three-day practice game, versus Leicestershire, there is reportedly Covid-19 fear looming large in the Indian camp. According to a report in the Times of India, former captain Virat had tested positive for Covid-19 post his holiday in Maldives. He, however, recovered before joining the team. While he has returned negative, a few more players may have also tested positive for the deadly virus. "Yes, Virat too was hit by Covid after returning from holidaying in Maldives, but he's recovered now," a BCCI source told TOI. "This now means that India's tour game against Leicestershire from June 24 won't be as intense as coach Rahul Dravid wanted it to be, since the medical advice is to not overload the players after they've suffered Covid-19. There could be more Covid cases in the team," the source added. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit & Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England It is to be noted that the incomplete five Tests between India and England had come to a sudden halt, on the day the series decider was to kick off in Manchester, due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. The visitors will not like to endure the same fate this time around. They are already without R Ashwin, who has tested positive and hasn't flown to England with both the batches of Indian Test players.

Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being.

After completing his medical protocols, Ashwin will travel to England but might miss Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s three-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, ahead of the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes' England.&nbsp;

"Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for Covid-19 before departure," a BCCI source told the news agency&nbsp;PTI.&nbsp; "But we are hopeful that Ashwin will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1. However, Ashwin might miss the practice game against Leicestershire,” the source added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-cheteshwar-pujara-open-against-england-in-kl-rahuls-absence-bccis-post-hints-at-indias-opening-pair-489990">Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair</a>

Ashwin will be eager to recover in time and be a part of India's squad, who have a chance to create history and win their first-ever Test series in England since 2007. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series before the final encounter, in Manchester, was abandoned due to&nbsp;Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Now, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to finish off the incomplete 2021 series in style, by winning the final Test in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01.

For the unversed, the first batch of the Indian team had left for England on June 16. They are already in&nbsp;Leicester and practicing under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Paras&nbsp;Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour. After the initial batch, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and head coach Rahul Dravid left for England on June 20, a day after the completion of the India-South Africa home T20Is (which ended in a 2-2 scoreline).

Meanwhile, Ireland-bound Indian T20I team have been given a three-day rest and will leave for Dublin either on June 23 and 24. Hardik Pandya-led Team India will play two T20Is versus Ireland, on June 26 and 28.
</section>

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being.

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being. After completing his medical protocols, Ashwin will travel to England but might miss Rohit Sharma & Co.'s three-day practice game versus Leicestershire, ahead of the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes' England. "Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for Covid-19 before departure," a BCCI source told the news agency PTI. "But we are hopeful that Ashwin will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1. However, Ashwin might miss the practice game against Leicestershire,” the source added. ALSO READ | Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair Ashwin will be eager to recover in time and be a part of India's squad, who have a chance to create history and win their first-ever Test series in England since 2007. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series before the final encounter, in Manchester, was abandoned due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Now, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to finish off the incomplete 2021 series in style, by winning the final Test in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01. For the unversed, the first batch of the Indian team had left for England on June 16. They are already in Leicester and practicing under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour. After the initial batch, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and head coach Rahul Dravid left for England on June 20, a day after the completion of the India-South Africa home T20Is (which ended in a 2-2 scoreline). Meanwhile, Ireland-bound Indian T20I team have been given a three-day rest and will leave for Dublin either on June 23 and 24. Hardik Pandya-led Team India will play two T20Is versus Ireland, on June 26 and 28.

India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report

Team India is busy finalising their combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the marquee tournament, India still have to play plenty of series&nbsp;as they can tinker with their team combination in order to finalise their ideal XI.&nbsp;

A second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team recently played South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru on June 19. Despite a disappointing end to the series, India had plenty of positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

After the series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar&nbsp;mentioned a star player who could be one of Rohit Sharma's trump cards in the forthcoming T20 World Cup Down Under. Gavaskar hailed Harshal Patel as the fast-bowling all-rounder who impressed bowling in tough situations in the SA series and returned with&nbsp;seven wickets in four innings at&nbsp;12.57 and an economy rate of 7.23. He was, thus, the highest wicket-taker in the series.

Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports, “He will be one of the trumps cards because you have Bhuvneshwar, Shami and Bumrah as well. Brilliant for a skipper to have someone like him to depend on, He can come in and bowl may be even in the powerplay where people are now going with change of pace. So yes he certainly should be part of the group."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graeme-smith-names-star-player-as-rohit-sharma-led-indias-x-factor-for-2022-t20-world-cup-490209">Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup</a>

Former SA captain Graeme Smith, who was also part of the same panel, agreed with Gavaskar and added, “He has been excellent. Nobody skills in the death overs with the slower balls...but I feel from game 3 he found his right length and picked up wickets and kept the pressure on the South Africans. He has all the skills as an all-rounder bowler and is a big asset to the team and handles pressure very well and is a clear thinker under pressure."

Harshal will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

Team India is busy finalising their combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the marquee tournament, India still have to play plenty of series as they can tinker with their team combination in order to finalise their ideal XI.

Team India is busy finalising their combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the marquee tournament, India still have to play plenty of series as they can tinker with their team combination in order to finalise their ideal XI. A second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team recently played South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru on June 19. Despite a disappointing end to the series, India had plenty of positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. After the series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar mentioned a star player who could be one of Rohit Sharma's trump cards in the forthcoming T20 World Cup Down Under. Gavaskar hailed Harshal Patel as the fast-bowling all-rounder who impressed bowling in tough situations in the SA series and returned with seven wickets in four innings at 12.57 and an economy rate of 7.23. He was, thus, the highest wicket-taker in the series. Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports, “He will be one of the trumps cards because you have Bhuvneshwar, Shami and Bumrah as well. Brilliant for a skipper to have someone like him to depend on, He can come in and bowl may be even in the powerplay where people are now going with change of pace. So yes he certainly should be part of the group." ALSO READ | Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup Former SA captain Graeme Smith, who was also part of the same panel, agreed with Gavaskar and added, “He has been excellent. Nobody skills in the death overs with the slower balls...but I feel from game 3 he found his right length and picked up wickets and kept the pressure on the South Africans. He has all the skills as an all-rounder bowler and is a big asset to the team and handles pressure very well and is a clear thinker under pressure." Harshal will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans

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

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

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

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

Hardik Pandya remains the talk of the town. He made a sensational comeback in competitive cricket, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, after having missed a plethora of series for Team India due to his fitness issues. In his break, he worked on his fitness and has returned in style, not only fulfilling the role of an all-rounder, but the 28-year-old has also shown his flair as a leader.&nbsp;

During IPL 2022, Hardik led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) and took them to their maiden championship. His leadership style was hailed by many -- being calm and composed, positive, leading by the front and backing his core players -- as he also had a good run in the recently-concluded India-South Africa T20Is at home. India are now set to play Ireland in two T20Is, where Hardik will lead a second-stringed side. Ahead of his captaincy debut for India, former Indian stumper and&nbsp;selector Saba Karim lauded the all-rounder and stated that the youngster is still a different leader than MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, despite being groomed by them since his debut.

Speaking on TOI's podcast 'Sportscast', Karim said, "I think Hardik Pandya, although he spent a lot of time with MS Dhoni, spent a lot of time with Virat Kohli, he has his own brand of captaincy and the way he plays his cricket is so different from what Virat does or what MS Dhoni does. So you learn from so many great individuals who have been part of the side, but eventually, you bring your own leadership style onto the field and I think that's what he did."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-international-career-got-over-but-aakash-chopra-lauds-dinesh-karthik-after-sa-t20is-489877">'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is</a>

Karim was part of the selection committee when Hardik made his debut for India, in early 2016 during a white-ball tour of Australia. Recalling the time, Karim opined that Hardik has impressed with his maturity, change in lifestyle, etc. to bring desired results as a cricketer.

"If I remember correctly, he made his debut in 2015-16 (January 2016 in a T20I vs Australia in Adelaide), when I was part of the selection committee and since then he has grown not only as a person but also as a cricketer and it seemed like it had come to a stage where he really had to reinvent his lifestyle to become a more mature cricketer and that's what was seen in this season's IPL. And that is remarkable - it's not easy for athletes to do that at that level," he further added.

Hardik Pandya remains the talk of the town. He made a sensational comeback in competitive cricket, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, after having missed a plethora of series for Team India due to his fitness issues.

Hardik Pandya remains the talk of the town. He made a sensational comeback in competitive cricket, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, after having missed a plethora of series for Team India due to his fitness issues. In his break, he worked on his fitness and has returned in style, not only fulfilling the role of an all-rounder, but the 28-year-old has also shown his flair as a leader. During IPL 2022, Hardik led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) and took them to their maiden championship. His leadership style was hailed by many -- being calm and composed, positive, leading by the front and backing his core players -- as he also had a good run in the recently-concluded India-South Africa T20Is at home. India are now set to play Ireland in two T20Is, where Hardik will lead a second-stringed side. Ahead of his captaincy debut for India, former Indian stumper and selector Saba Karim lauded the all-rounder and stated that the youngster is still a different leader than MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, despite being groomed by them since his debut. Speaking on TOI's podcast 'Sportscast', Karim said, "I think Hardik Pandya, although he spent a lot of time with MS Dhoni, spent a lot of time with Virat Kohli, he has his own brand of captaincy and the way he plays his cricket is so different from what Virat does or what MS Dhoni does. So you learn from so many great individuals who have been part of the side, but eventually, you bring your own leadership style onto the field and I think that's what he did." ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is Karim was part of the selection committee when Hardik made his debut for India, in early 2016 during a white-ball tour of Australia. Recalling the time, Karim opined that Hardik has impressed with his maturity, change in lifestyle, etc. to bring desired results as a cricketer. "If I remember correctly, he made his debut in 2015-16 (January 2016 in a T20I vs Australia in Adelaide), when I was part of the selection committee and since then he has grown not only as a person but also as a cricketer and it seemed like it had come to a stage where he really had to reinvent his lifestyle to become a more mature cricketer and that's what was seen in this season's IPL. And that is remarkable - it's not easy for athletes to do that at that level," he further added.

Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.3 overs of play was possible -- with hosts 21 for 2 -- as the entire proceedings led to a no-result due to persistent rain.

Before the start of play, when rain was out of the picture, Rishabh Pant-led India had lost the coin toss -- for the fifth time in a row -- and were asked to bat first. Just when the players came out for the start of the match, rain made its presence felt and both camps went back to their respective dressing rooms. Just then, a video of Ruturaj Gaikwad's interaction with a groundsman went viral.&nbsp;

In the video, the groundsman was in the Indian dressing room and asked&nbsp;Ruturaj&nbsp;for a quick selfie. To this, the 25-year-old Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) and India opener asked him to maintain distance and, instead, interacted with his follow teammates. While many have slammed Ruturaj for his inappropriate behaviour, some have also supported the batter as outsiders and cellphones are prohibited in&nbsp;dugouts. Here are some reactions as netizens on Twitter are divided over Ruturaj's behaviour with the groundsman:&nbsp;

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Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIXWvUdqIX">pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX</a>
— Arnav (@imarnav_904) <a href="https://twitter.com/imarnav_904/status/1538549132482076673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-t20i-between-india-and-south-africa-called-off-due-to-rain-series-shared-489760">5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared</a>

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Ruturaj Gaikwad showing attitude while taking selfie with 'groundsman' not anyone can treat everyone equal like Rohit Sharma ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsSa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsSa</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y2IEDsJShj">pic.twitter.com/Y2IEDsJShj</a>
— 𓃵 Ctrl C + Ctrl Memes 45 (@Ctrlmemes_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ctrlmemes_/status/1538522583804522497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this👎 <a href="https://t.co/Qj6YoXIPUa">pic.twitter.com/Qj6YoXIPUa</a>
— akshat (@ReignOfVirat) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReignOfVirat/status/1538521237584060418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Nah... Nothing wrong. You are not allowed in the dug out first of all. And last IPL, one bookie was caught masquerading as a groundsman at Kotla <a href="https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv">https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv</a>
— Prithvi (@Puneite_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Puneite_/status/1538536797315399680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Definitely! Already he got affected with covid twice so nothing wrong.
— Sooraj Ayyappan (@Sooraj_Ayyappan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sooraj_Ayyappan/status/1538543218249170952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-the-plan-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-working-with-6-different-captains-as-india-head-coach-489747">'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach</a>

Talking about the India-SA T20I series, the two sides had to share the trophy after the final match was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Speaking about Ruturaj, he returned with a solitary fifty in five outings and will like to make the most of his opportunities in India's upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland.

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.3 overs of play was possible -- with hosts 21 for 2 -- as the entire proceedings led to a no-result due to persistent rain. Before the start of play, when rain was out of the picture, Rishabh Pant-led India had lost the coin toss -- for the fifth time in a row -- and were asked to bat first. Just when the players came out for the start of the match, rain made its presence felt and both camps went back to their respective dressing rooms. Just then, a video of Ruturaj Gaikwad's interaction with a groundsman went viral. In the video, the groundsman was in the Indian dressing room and asked Ruturaj for a quick selfie. To this, the 25-year-old Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) and India opener asked him to maintain distance and, instead, interacted with his follow teammates. While many have slammed Ruturaj for his inappropriate behaviour, some have also supported the batter as outsiders and cellphones are prohibited in dugouts. Here are some reactions as netizens on Twitter are divided over Ruturaj's behaviour with the groundsman: Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔#RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX — Arnav (@imarnav_904) June 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared Ruturaj Gaikwad showing attitude while taking selfie with 'groundsman' not anyone can treat everyone equal like Rohit Sharma ❤️#INDvSA #IndvsSa pic.twitter.com/Y2IEDsJShj — 𓃵 Ctrl C + Ctrl Memes 45 (@Ctrlmemes_) June 19, 2022 × Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this👎 pic.twitter.com/Qj6YoXIPUa — akshat (@ReignOfVirat) June 19, 2022 × Nah... Nothing wrong. You are not allowed in the dug out first of all. And last IPL, one bookie was caught masquerading as a groundsman at Kotla https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv — Prithvi (@Puneite_) June 19, 2022 × Definitely! Already he got affected with covid twice so nothing wrong. — Sooraj Ayyappan (@Sooraj_Ayyappan) June 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach Talking about the India-SA T20I series, the two sides had to share the trophy after the final match was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Speaking about Ruturaj, he returned with a solitary fifty in five outings and will like to make the most of his opportunities in India's upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland.

WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.3 overs possible as it led to a no-result and the series being shared.

For India, they still had a lot of positives as they came back from being 0-2 down. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar did well. Bhuvi returned with the Player-of-the-Series award, claiming six wickets in four innings.

Thus, the 32-year-old Bhuvi claimed a new record, by winning the most Player-of-the-Series awards by an Indian fast-bowler. He, thus, surpassed Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma. The two&nbsp;have won it thrice when compared to Bhuvi (4). Earlier, the swing bowler had picked up the player of the series awards during the 2013 Celkon Cup tri-series in West Indies(ODIs), 2014 tour of England and 2018 tour of South Africa (in Tests and T20Is, respectively).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a>

At the post-match presentation, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bhuvi told, "Really proud. Body feels good, but I don't want to talk much about it. Just want to focus on getting back stronger physically and with my bowling. Most of the times I bowl two at the top and two at the end. Being a senior, I also think about how to help the youngsters. I have been lucky that the captain gave me the free hand to do whatever I wanted. Pretty blessed in that way."

Bhuvi will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28. He will be the vice-captain with Hardik Pandya set to lead the Men in Blue.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.3 overs possible as it led to a no-result and the series being shared. For India, they still had a lot of positives as they came back from being 0-2 down. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar did well. Bhuvi returned with the Player-of-the-Series award, claiming six wickets in four innings. Thus, the 32-year-old Bhuvi claimed a new record, by winning the most Player-of-the-Series awards by an Indian fast-bowler. He, thus, surpassed Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma. The two have won it thrice when compared to Bhuvi (4). Earlier, the swing bowler had picked up the player of the series awards during the 2013 Celkon Cup tri-series in West Indies(ODIs), 2014 tour of England and 2018 tour of South Africa (in Tests and T20Is, respectively). ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I At the post-match presentation, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bhuvi told, "Really proud. Body feels good, but I don't want to talk much about it. Just want to focus on getting back stronger physically and with my bowling. Most of the times I bowl two at the top and two at the end. Being a senior, I also think about how to help the youngsters. I have been lucky that the captain gave me the free hand to do whatever I wanted. Pretty blessed in that way." Bhuvi will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28. He will be the vice-captain with Hardik Pandya set to lead the Men in Blue.

Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas

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

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

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

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

Comeback man Dinesh Karthik returned to the Team India setup after a three-year hiatus during the recently-concluded India-South Africa home T20Is. In the five-match series, DK performed well -- with a 21-ball 30 not out and 55 in the second and fourth match respectively -- to strengthen his case to feature in Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

After the end of the five-match series, which ended in a 2-2 scoreline after the series finale was abandoned due to rain in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked DK&nbsp;as one of the star performers (along with Player-of-the-Series Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishan Kishan) for the host nation. He also lauded DK for his longevity, stating that he has even outlived&nbsp;MS Dhoni's career span.

"At No. 3, I have kept Karthik. Batting is very difficult at the number he bats. The way he has played, he has been brilliant. It has been a very long career (debuting in 2004), Dhoni's entire international career got over in between but DK is still there," Chopra said.&nbsp;

"The hunger is coming to the fore, the game plan, just the clarity about how he is going to play. He plays slightly in an unorthodox fashion but that is what is required to be done in the death overs. A specialist death batter is a very difficult role, there is no other role more difficult than this in the world," Chopra added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-or-dinesh-karthik-irfan-pathan-names-his-choice-while-picking-rohit-cos-ideal-t20-wc-xi-489844">Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit &amp; Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI</a>

For the majority of his career, DK was in the shadow of Dhoni, who excelled as India's finisher, astute captain, and wise keeper. After Dhoni's retirement, Rishabh Pant has broken into the scene, however, the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been that successful in white-ball formats, so far, as compared to Tests. Hence, DK is still giving tough competition to the 24-year-old and is focused on representing India in the 2022 T20 WC, to be held Down Under.

The 37-year-old Karthik will now shift his focus to the two-match T20I series between India and Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

Comeback man Dinesh Karthik returned to the Team India setup after a three-year hiatus during the recently-concluded India-South Africa home T20Is. In the five-match series, DK performed well -- with a 21-ball 30 not out and 55 in the second and fourth match respectively -- to strengthen his case to feature in Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

Comeback man Dinesh Karthik returned to the Team India setup after a three-year hiatus during the recently-concluded India-South Africa home T20Is. In the five-match series, DK performed well -- with a 21-ball 30 not out and 55 in the second and fourth match respectively -- to strengthen his case to feature in Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. After the end of the five-match series, which ended in a 2-2 scoreline after the series finale was abandoned due to rain in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked DK as one of the star performers (along with Player-of-the-Series Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishan Kishan) for the host nation. He also lauded DK for his longevity, stating that he has even outlived MS Dhoni's career span. "At No. 3, I have kept Karthik. Batting is very difficult at the number he bats. The way he has played, he has been brilliant. It has been a very long career (debuting in 2004), Dhoni's entire international career got over in between but DK is still there," Chopra said. "The hunger is coming to the fore, the game plan, just the clarity about how he is going to play. He plays slightly in an unorthodox fashion but that is what is required to be done in the death overs. A specialist death batter is a very difficult role, there is no other role more difficult than this in the world," Chopra added. ALSO READ | Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI For the majority of his career, DK was in the shadow of Dhoni, who excelled as India's finisher, astute captain, and wise keeper. After Dhoni's retirement, Rishabh Pant has broken into the scene, however, the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been that successful in white-ball formats, so far, as compared to Tests. Hence, DK is still giving tough competition to the 24-year-old and is focused on representing India in the 2022 T20 WC, to be held Down Under. The 37-year-old Karthik will now shift his focus to the two-match T20I series between India and Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is

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

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

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

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

On the back of a glittering IPL 2022 season, the 37-year-old Dinesh Karthik made a comeback -- for the nth time -- in the Team India set up ahead of&nbsp;the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. Being made a scapegoat for India's 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final loss, Karthik waited for almost three years for a comeback. Needless to say, his return has been a blessing for the national side.

From IPL 15 to date, the entire country is chanting "DK, DK" as Karthik remains the talk of the town. This&nbsp;success has been long overdue. Debuting for India in 2004, Karthik's&nbsp;career span is longer than MS Dhoni (under whose gigantic shadow he remained glued to a corner for years) and many yesteryear stars such as VVS Laxman, current head coach Rahul Dravid, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, etc. In fact, he&nbsp;just needs to stick around for six more years to equal the great Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, DK's success ratio is much smaller than the above-mentioned stalwarts of Indian cricket. Despite that, his hunger for success, appetite for playing for the country, willingness to adapt to varied roles, and childlike enthusiasm remain&nbsp;second to none.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-breaks-ms-dhonis-record-with-sensational-half-century-in-4th-t20i-against-south-africa-489296">Dinesh Karthik breaks MS Dhoni's record with sensational half-century in 4th T20I against South Africa</a>

For someone who has been around as a&nbsp;second-choice keeper-batter for years, is still behind Rishabh Pant in the reckoning, has even donned the opener's hat in India's historic Test series win in England in 2007, been part of&nbsp;two ICC title-wins for the Men in Blue (in 2007 and 2013), bloomed in 2018-19 only to disappear once again, Karthik has come a long long way. He has failed more than he has succeeded, hence, he is adamant about not being done yet. Just like the finale in every cricket match rests on a finisher's shoulders and the end is always decided by him, or her, DK seems hell bent&nbsp;to pen&nbsp;the concluding chapter&nbsp;of his inspiring career on&nbsp;his own and in his own way. He doesn't want it to be left to fate.

Thus, Karthik isn't just&nbsp;India's finisher&nbsp;-- strengthening his chances to feature in this year's T20 World cup with each game -- he is also making a statement loud and clear, i.e. "I am a finisher, who is yet again far from&nbsp;finished. I will finish it off in my own way."

After becoming India's oldest half-centurion in T20Is and guiding Pant &amp; Co. to a series-levelling win versus South Africa, in Rajkot, Karthik told all-rounder Hardik Pandya in a special interaction on BCCI.tv, "Look, I was very bull-headed that I want to play this World Cup. It is very important in my life, I have been around for so long. I know what it feels like to be dropped. I also know how valuable it is to play for Team India. I wanted to do something special. Luckily, RCB gave me that platform and the role I really enjoyed doing at the backend. I practiced for it. Now that I am here, I want to be that guy who can help India win those tough games. I know how tough it is to be part of this team. The vibe is very different," said Karthik.

During the same conversation, Hardik echoed the voice of every Indian cricket fan and athlete by lauding DK's journey. He said, "I need to tell you this, Genuinely I want to tell you this, you have given a lot of inspiration to many guys in their life. I remember the conversation you were having when you were not in the scheme of things, a lot of people counted you out."

"I remember those conversations. You told me then that my goal is to play for India again and the goal is to play this World Cup, I am going to give it my everything, and seeing you achieve that is very inspirational. A lot of people are going to learn new things. Well done my brother, very proud of you," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-avesh-khan-help-india-crush-south-africa-to-level-t20-series-489206">Dinesh&nbsp;Karthik, Avesh Khan help India crush South Africa to level T20 series</a>

DK is the finisher, on and off the field. He will not finish until he is part of India's flight enroute Australia for the T20 World Cup (or maybe even dream of being part of the&nbsp;2023 ODI World Cup). He won't take his guard off until he sees India home in many upcoming tense chases. Similarly, he won't finish off by virtue of being dropped anymore. He is writing his own script. DK will finish off in style. Until then, sit back and enjoy the show by a child who, time and again, fights with destiny to stay relevant.

On the back of a glittering IPL 2022 season, the 37-year-old Dinesh Karthik made a comeback -- for the nth time -- in the Team India set up ahead of the ongoing South Africa home T20Is.

On the back of a glittering IPL 2022 season, the 37-year-old Dinesh Karthik made a comeback -- for the nth time -- in the Team India set up ahead of the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. Being made a scapegoat for India's 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final loss, Karthik waited for almost three years for a comeback. Needless to say, his return has been a blessing for the national side. From IPL 15 to date, the entire country is chanting "DK, DK" as Karthik remains the talk of the town. This success has been long overdue. Debuting for India in 2004, Karthik's career span is longer than MS Dhoni (under whose gigantic shadow he remained glued to a corner for years) and many yesteryear stars such as VVS Laxman, current head coach Rahul Dravid, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, etc. In fact, he just needs to stick around for six more years to equal the great Sachin Tendulkar. Nonetheless, DK's success ratio is much smaller than the above-mentioned stalwarts of Indian cricket. Despite that, his hunger for success, appetite for playing for the country, willingness to adapt to varied roles, and childlike enthusiasm remain second to none. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik breaks MS Dhoni's record with sensational half-century in 4th T20I against South Africa For someone who has been around as a second-choice keeper-batter for years, is still behind Rishabh Pant in the reckoning, has even donned the opener's hat in India's historic Test series win in England in 2007, been part of two ICC title-wins for the Men in Blue (in 2007 and 2013), bloomed in 2018-19 only to disappear once again, Karthik has come a long long way. He has failed more than he has succeeded, hence, he is adamant about not being done yet. Just like the finale in every cricket match rests on a finisher's shoulders and the end is always decided by him, or her, DK seems hell bent to pen the concluding chapter of his inspiring career on his own and in his own way. He doesn't want it to be left to fate. Thus, Karthik isn't just India's finisher -- strengthening his chances to feature in this year's T20 World cup with each game -- he is also making a statement loud and clear, i.e. "I am a finisher, who is yet again far from finished. I will finish it off in my own way." After becoming India's oldest half-centurion in T20Is and guiding Pant & Co. to a series-levelling win versus South Africa, in Rajkot, Karthik told all-rounder Hardik Pandya in a special interaction on BCCI.tv, "Look, I was very bull-headed that I want to play this World Cup. It is very important in my life, I have been around for so long. I know what it feels like to be dropped. I also know how valuable it is to play for Team India. I wanted to do something special. Luckily, RCB gave me that platform and the role I really enjoyed doing at the backend. I practiced for it. Now that I am here, I want to be that guy who can help India win those tough games. I know how tough it is to be part of this team. The vibe is very different," said Karthik. During the same conversation, Hardik echoed the voice of every Indian cricket fan and athlete by lauding DK's journey. He said, "I need to tell you this, Genuinely I want to tell you this, you have given a lot of inspiration to many guys in their life. I remember the conversation you were having when you were not in the scheme of things, a lot of people counted you out." "I remember those conversations. You told me then that my goal is to play for India again and the goal is to play this World Cup, I am going to give it my everything, and seeing you achieve that is very inspirational. A lot of people are going to learn new things. Well done my brother, very proud of you," he added. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik, Avesh Khan help India crush South Africa to level T20 series DK is the finisher, on and off the field. He will not finish until he is part of India's flight enroute Australia for the T20 World Cup (or maybe even dream of being part of the 2023 ODI World Cup). He won't take his guard off until he sees India home in many upcoming tense chases. Similarly, he won't finish off by virtue of being dropped anymore. He is writing his own script. DK will finish off in style. Until then, sit back and enjoy the show by a child who, time and again, fights with destiny to stay relevant.

Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished

The India-Australia Test series was full of action, drama and entertainment during the 2020/21 Border Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. While India defied all odds to beat Australia, 2-1, after a disastrous show in the opening Test, the series was filled with various sledging episodes, racial abuse, alleged bio-bubble breach, etc.

Ahead of the third and penultimate&nbsp;Test, at the SCG, Sydney, Team India star players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and Navdeep Saini -- were caught in a huge controversy after an image went viral with all four of them sitting inside a restaurant, breaching the bio-bubble rules for the four-match Test series Down Under. It became a huge talking point before BCCI denied all such claims.

As per the bio-bubble rules back, the cricketers were&nbsp;allowed to dine out at a restaurant. However, they&nbsp;were told to avoid sitting indoors, to eliminate the chances of contracting the deadly COVID-19 virus.&nbsp;

In the docu-series Bandon Mein Tha Dum, Tim Paine -- who was captaining Australia back then -- blamed the Indian players for putting the entire series at risk.

"I mean those 4-5 guys put the whole Test series at risk. For what? For a bowl of Nando’s, chips or wherever they went, like I just find that pretty selfish to be honest,” said Paine, who was succeeded by Pat Cummins as the Aussie Test captain following his sexting scandal last year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-recalls-intense-sledging-episode-with-paine-shares-story-behind-that-will-be-your-last-series-remark-489019">Ashwin recalls intense sledging episode with Paine, shares story behind 'that will be your last series' remark</a>

Even Cummins reacted in the docu-series and stated, “It did annoy quite a few of the boys. Especially the ones who had to spend a Christmas without their families. That was sacrificing quite a bit to be there on that tour to hear that the other team were flouting the rules and not taking it as seriously."

<section>
India's then stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane defended his troops saying, "The players who appeared in the pictures were actually waiting for their takeaway order. Due to bad weather, they had to wait inside. The story that appeared in the news was really wrong."

Amid many on and off-field drama, the India-Australia series was one for the ages, where a second-stringed Indian team defeated Australia to win their second successive series in whites on the Aussie soil.
</section>

The India-Australia Test series was full of action, drama and entertainment during the 2020/21 Border Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. While India defied all odds to beat Australia, 2-1, after a disastrous show in the opening Test, the series was filled with various sledging episodes, racial abuse, alleged bio-bubble breach, etc.

The India-Australia Test series was full of action, drama and entertainment during the 2020/21 Border Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. While India defied all odds to beat Australia, 2-1, after a disastrous show in the opening Test, the series was filled with various sledging episodes, racial abuse, alleged bio-bubble breach, etc. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test, at the SCG, Sydney, Team India star players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and Navdeep Saini -- were caught in a huge controversy after an image went viral with all four of them sitting inside a restaurant, breaching the bio-bubble rules for the four-match Test series Down Under. It became a huge talking point before BCCI denied all such claims. As per the bio-bubble rules back, the cricketers were allowed to dine out at a restaurant. However, they were told to avoid sitting indoors, to eliminate the chances of contracting the deadly COVID-19 virus. In the docu-series Bandon Mein Tha Dum, Tim Paine -- who was captaining Australia back then -- blamed the Indian players for putting the entire series at risk. "I mean those 4-5 guys put the whole Test series at risk. For what? For a bowl of Nando’s, chips or wherever they went, like I just find that pretty selfish to be honest,” said Paine, who was succeeded by Pat Cummins as the Aussie Test captain following his sexting scandal last year. ALSO READ | Ashwin recalls intense sledging episode with Paine, shares story behind 'that will be your last series' remark Even Cummins reacted in the docu-series and stated, “It did annoy quite a few of the boys. Especially the ones who had to spend a Christmas without their families. That was sacrificing quite a bit to be there on that tour to hear that the other team were flouting the rules and not taking it as seriously." India's then stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane defended his troops saying, "The players who appeared in the pictures were actually waiting for their takeaway order. Due to bad weather, they had to wait inside. The story that appeared in the news was really wrong." Amid many on and off-field drama, the India-Australia series was one for the ages, where a second-stringed Indian team defeated Australia to win their second successive series in whites on the Aussie soil.

'Pretty selfish, they put....' - Paine on Team India stars' alleged bio-bubble breach during 2020/21 Tests

BCCI, on Thursday (June 16), shared some pictures of Virat Kohli and other Indian players boarding the flight for England where India is set to play a rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. Fans were quick to notice the absence of Rohit Sharma, which led to various speculations.&nbsp;

Now, as per a report in Sports Today, it has been revealed that the Indian captain Rohit is set to depart for England on June 20, along with some other white-ball specialists and Test players. Along with Rohit, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, head coach Rahul Dravid and his other coaching staff members are also in India as they are involved in the five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa. Thus, they will only be free from their commitments on June 19 (Sunday), when the final match will be held in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-my-next-captain-in-line-after-rohit-sharma-in-white-ball-formats-wasim-jaffer-on-star-india-player-488815">'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player</a>

Rohit's absence had led to many fans speculating if the Indian captain had injury concerns. He was last seen in action in IPL 2022, where Mumbai Indians (MI) finished at the bottom, and&nbsp;Hitman had a forgettable run both as captain and batter (returning without a single fifty-plus score). Nonetheless, there is no injury concerns for the 35-year-old and he will head to England early next week, with Dravid &amp; Co.&nbsp;

India's tour of England comprises a one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 which will also be followed by six white-ball matches (three ODIs and T20Is each) from July 7-17. Before the tour opener, India will play Leicestershire in a practice match, at the Grace Road, from June 24 to 27. At the same time, Hardik Pandya-led Indian T20I team will square off with Ireland, in Dublin, for a two-match series on June 26 and 28.

BCCI, on Thursday (June 16), shared some pictures of Virat Kohli and other Indian players boarding the flight for England where India is set to play a rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co.

BCCI, on Thursday (June 16), shared some pictures of Virat Kohli and other Indian players boarding the flight for England where India is set to play a rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. Fans were quick to notice the absence of Rohit Sharma, which led to various speculations. Now, as per a report in Sports Today, it has been revealed that the Indian captain Rohit is set to depart for England on June 20, along with some other white-ball specialists and Test players. Along with Rohit, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, head coach Rahul Dravid and his other coaching staff members are also in India as they are involved in the five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa. Thus, they will only be free from their commitments on June 19 (Sunday), when the final match will be held in Bengaluru. ALSO READ | 'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player Rohit's absence had led to many fans speculating if the Indian captain had injury concerns. He was last seen in action in IPL 2022, where Mumbai Indians (MI) finished at the bottom, and Hitman had a forgettable run both as captain and batter (returning without a single fifty-plus score). Nonetheless, there is no injury concerns for the 35-year-old and he will head to England early next week, with Dravid & Co. India's tour of England comprises a one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 which will also be followed by six white-ball matches (three ODIs and T20Is each) from July 7-17. Before the tour opener, India will play Leicestershire in a practice match, at the Grace Road, from June 24 to 27. At the same time, Hardik Pandya-led Indian T20I team will square off with Ireland, in Dublin, for a two-match series on June 26 and 28.

Team India skipper Rohit Sharma set to leave for England on June 20: Report

On Wednesday (June 15), Hardik Pandya was named as India's captain for their upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin. Thus, Hardik will get a chance to lead India for the first time as he has been rightly rewarded for his maiden stint as an IPL skipper in the 15th season, where he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the championship.

Thus, Hardik joins the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah who are among the younger lot being considered for India captain after Rohit Sharma's stint is over. Ahead of Hardik's captaincy stint for India, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has picked him as the next white-ball captain after Rohit. In addition, Jaffer wants Hardik to be India's first choice vice-captain in the shorter formats, instead of KL Rahul.&nbsp;

“He deserves it. Going forward, Indian selectors should look at him seriously for leading in white ball cricket. Especially if Rohit Sharma is not available, Hardik Pandya should be the first choice in my opinion. The way he led in the IPL, the way his performances came through, he is somebody who relishes that job. Going forward he is probably my number one choice after Rohit Sharma,” said Jaffer on ESPNCricinfo. &nbsp;

“If Rohit is playing, I would like Hardik to be the vice-captain in white ball cricket. He is somebody who enjoys their job and gets the best out of himself and others. Everybody feels at home and he gets the best out of the other players. So he is my next in line after Rohit Sharma,” added Jaffer.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-ireland-t20is-hes-most-matured-captain-from-younger-lot-aakash-chopra-on-hardik-pandya-488776">India vs Ireland T20Is: 'He's most matured captain from younger lot' - Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya</a>

While Hardik has been named as the captain for the Ireland tour, pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar will serve as his deputy whereas many young and uncapped IPL stars such as Umran Malik, Rahul Tripathi, Arshdeep Singh are also part of the 17-member squad. Dinesh Karthik has retained his spot whereas Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson make a comeback.&nbsp;

India's T20I squad:&nbsp;Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

On Wednesday (June 15), Hardik Pandya was named as India's captain for their upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin. Thus, Hardik will get a chance to lead India for the first time as he has been rightly rewarded for his maiden stint as an IPL skipper in the 15th season, where he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the championship.

On Wednesday (June 15), Hardik Pandya was named as India's captain for their upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin. Thus, Hardik will get a chance to lead India for the first time as he has been rightly rewarded for his maiden stint as an IPL skipper in the 15th season, where he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the championship. Thus, Hardik joins the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah who are among the younger lot being considered for India captain after Rohit Sharma's stint is over. Ahead of Hardik's captaincy stint for India, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has picked him as the next white-ball captain after Rohit. In addition, Jaffer wants Hardik to be India's first choice vice-captain in the shorter formats, instead of KL Rahul. “He deserves it. Going forward, Indian selectors should look at him seriously for leading in white ball cricket. Especially if Rohit Sharma is not available, Hardik Pandya should be the first choice in my opinion. The way he led in the IPL, the way his performances came through, he is somebody who relishes that job. Going forward he is probably my number one choice after Rohit Sharma,” said Jaffer on ESPNCricinfo. “If Rohit is playing, I would like Hardik to be the vice-captain in white ball cricket. He is somebody who enjoys their job and gets the best out of himself and others. Everybody feels at home and he gets the best out of the other players. So he is my next in line after Rohit Sharma,” added Jaffer. ALSO READ | India vs Ireland T20Is: 'He's most matured captain from younger lot' - Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya While Hardik has been named as the captain for the Ireland tour, pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar will serve as his deputy whereas many young and uncapped IPL stars such as Umran Malik, Rahul Tripathi, Arshdeep Singh are also part of the 17-member squad. Dinesh Karthik has retained his spot whereas Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson make a comeback. India's T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player

India and Australia played a humdinger of a four-match Test in 2020-21. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, India stormed their way back following a disastrous performance in the opening Test, in Adelaide, to first level the series in Melbourne, secure a draw in the third and penultimate Test before winning the series decider at The Gabba, Brisbane.

Moreover, India's victory came sans then regular captain Virat Kohli, who only captained the team in the series opener before returning back to India for the birth of his first child. Hence, then vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane stepped up as a leader, marshalled his troops, led from the front with a memorable 112 at the MCG as India won their second successive Test series on Australian soil.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the series didn't start well for Rahane. On Day 1 of the opening Test, Rahane-Kohli were going well, after India opted to bat first in Adelaide, as visitors&nbsp;were 188-3 during the final session. With a handy 88-run stand for the fourth wicket, Kohli-Rahane were dictating terms before a horrible mix-up led to the skipper's dismissal (74).

Rahane&nbsp;drove a Nathan Lyon delivery to the left of mid-off and ran before bailing out, leaving Kohli stranded in the middle. Thus, the right-hander recently recalled the horrible run-out and revealed how it affected him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

"I don’t think I can ever forget that moment, or anyone can. When the ball hit my bat, I didn’t realise how well I had timed the ball. And I thought it was an easy single, it was an instinctive call, but when I took a couple of steps, then I realised the ball was next to Josh Hazlewood who was a mid-on. It was right under his hand," Rahane revealed in the first episode of Voot Select's series, Bandon mein tha dum.

"Then I had to say no. Even before Kohli got out, I knew that this could be a game-changing moment and that’s when I had that reaction. I immediately said sorry to him. I knew it could have been the turning point in the game, and that’s what happened. My mind was continuously thinking of that run-out. Generally, I play that ball to mid-on (on his own dismissal, off Mitchell Starc) but because of what happened 2-3 overs, my mind was completely blank," mentioned Rahane who fell for 42 soon after Kohli's departure.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-vice-captain-kl-rahul-to-miss-england-tour-to-leave-for-germany-for-treatment-report-488733">Indian vice-captain KL Rahul to miss England tour, to leave for Germany for treatment: Report</a>

"When I went inside the dressing room, I went to him and 'said sorry'. He said 'it's fine, these things happen, don't worry. We have the second innings, we will stitch another partnership and take the team forward'. But somehow, I felt from the inside that it was the moment that could change the game. Had that run-out not happened, the game could have gone in a different direction," Rahane added.

From 188-3, India were dismissed for 244 all-out and despite a vital 53-run lead, the visitors fell for 36 in their second essay to lose the first Test by eight wickets. While many had predicted a whitewash of the Indians following the result, with them also being without Kohli, however, Rahane &amp; Co. stunned one and all and went onto claim the series 2-1.

India and Australia played a humdinger of a four-match Test in 2020-21. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, India stormed their way back following a disastrous performance in the opening Test, in Adelaide, to first level the series in Melbourne, secure a draw in the third and penultimate Test before winning the series decider at The Gabba, Brisbane.

India and Australia played a humdinger of a four-match Test in 2020-21. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, India stormed their way back following a disastrous performance in the opening Test, in Adelaide, to first level the series in Melbourne, secure a draw in the third and penultimate Test before winning the series decider at The Gabba, Brisbane. Moreover, India's victory came sans then regular captain Virat Kohli, who only captained the team in the series opener before returning back to India for the birth of his first child. Hence, then vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane stepped up as a leader, marshalled his troops, led from the front with a memorable 112 at the MCG as India won their second successive Test series on Australian soil. Nonetheless, the series didn't start well for Rahane. On Day 1 of the opening Test, Rahane-Kohli were going well, after India opted to bat first in Adelaide, as visitors were 188-3 during the final session. With a handy 88-run stand for the fourth wicket, Kohli-Rahane were dictating terms before a horrible mix-up led to the skipper's dismissal (74). Rahane drove a Nathan Lyon delivery to the left of mid-off and ran before bailing out, leaving Kohli stranded in the middle. Thus, the right-hander recently recalled the horrible run-out and revealed how it affected him. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form "I don’t think I can ever forget that moment, or anyone can. When the ball hit my bat, I didn’t realise how well I had timed the ball. And I thought it was an easy single, it was an instinctive call, but when I took a couple of steps, then I realised the ball was next to Josh Hazlewood who was a mid-on. It was right under his hand," Rahane revealed in the first episode of Voot Select's series, Bandon mein tha dum. "Then I had to say no. Even before Kohli got out, I knew that this could be a game-changing moment and that’s when I had that reaction. I immediately said sorry to him. I knew it could have been the turning point in the game, and that’s what happened. My mind was continuously thinking of that run-out. Generally, I play that ball to mid-on (on his own dismissal, off Mitchell Starc) but because of what happened 2-3 overs, my mind was completely blank," mentioned Rahane who fell for 42 soon after Kohli's departure. ALSO READ | Indian vice-captain KL Rahul to miss England tour, to leave for Germany for treatment: Report "When I went inside the dressing room, I went to him and 'said sorry'. He said 'it's fine, these things happen, don't worry. We have the second innings, we will stitch another partnership and take the team forward'. But somehow, I felt from the inside that it was the moment that could change the game. Had that run-out not happened, the game could have gone in a different direction," Rahane added. From 188-3, India were dismissed for 244 all-out and despite a vital 53-run lead, the visitors fell for 36 in their second essay to lose the first Test by eight wickets. While many had predicted a whitewash of the Indians following the result, with them also being without Kohli, however, Rahane & Co. stunned one and all and went onto claim the series 2-1.

'I knew this could be a game-changing moment' - Rahane recalls mix-up with Virat Kohli in Adelaide Test

On Wednesday evening (June 15), the BCCI selection committee announced a 17-member Team India squad for the forthcoming two T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin. With regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and many other white-ball regulars to be in England to prepare for the one-off Test, Hardik Pandya has been named as the Indian captain for the Ireland series.

Hardik will, thus, get a chance to lead India for the first time ever. In IPL 2022, the talented all-rounder had led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden championship and led with example with both bat and ball, ending with 487 runs and eight wickets (three of them coming in the final). Thus, a lot is expected from Hardik the captain, who will have Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy for the Ireland tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hardik-pandya-named-india-captain-for-t20i-series-against-ireland-488520">Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland</a>

After his appointment, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reacted to the new development and lauded Hardik. "Rise and rise of Hardik Pandya. Even though he’s captained only one seasonI feel that he’s the most mature captain amongst the younger lot of contenders. Here’s wishing him all the very best for the first assignment for Team India," Chopra said exclusively on the Koo app.

While Hardik hasn't led India when compared to some other youngsters such as KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, he has operated in a much better wat than them during IPL 15. Hence, a lot is expected of him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gujarat-titans-finisher-rahul-tewatia-responds-to-team-india-snub-for-ireland-t20is-488641">Gujarat Titans' finisher Rahul Tewatia responds to Team India snub for Ireland T20Is</a>

The Hardik-starrer Indian squad comprises several IPL stars such as Rahul Tripathi, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Umran Malik whereas it also sees the return of Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson. Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harshal Patel, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel -- who are part of the ongoing home T20Is versus South Africa -- have also been retained.

India`s T20I squad:&nbsp;Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

On Wednesday evening (June 15), the BCCI selection committee announced a 17-member Team India squad for the forthcoming two T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin. With regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and many other white-ball regulars to be in England to prepare for the one-off Test, Hardik Pandya has been named as the Indian captain for the Ireland series.

On Wednesday evening (June 15), the BCCI selection committee announced a 17-member Team India squad for the forthcoming two T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin. With regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and many other white-ball regulars to be in England to prepare for the one-off Test, Hardik Pandya has been named as the Indian captain for the Ireland series. Hardik will, thus, get a chance to lead India for the first time ever. In IPL 2022, the talented all-rounder had led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden championship and led with example with both bat and ball, ending with 487 runs and eight wickets (three of them coming in the final). Thus, a lot is expected from Hardik the captain, who will have Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy for the Ireland tour. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland After his appointment, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reacted to the new development and lauded Hardik. "Rise and rise of Hardik Pandya. Even though he’s captained only one seasonI feel that he’s the most mature captain amongst the younger lot of contenders. Here’s wishing him all the very best for the first assignment for Team India," Chopra said exclusively on the Koo app. While Hardik hasn't led India when compared to some other youngsters such as KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, he has operated in a much better wat than them during IPL 15. Hence, a lot is expected of him. ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans' finisher Rahul Tewatia responds to Team India snub for Ireland T20Is The Hardik-starrer Indian squad comprises several IPL stars such as Rahul Tripathi, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Umran Malik whereas it also sees the return of Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson. Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harshal Patel, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel -- who are part of the ongoing home T20Is versus South Africa -- have also been retained. India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

India vs Ireland T20Is: 'He's most matured captain from younger lot' - Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya

On Wednesday evening (June 15), the BCCI selection committee announced a 17-member Team India squad for the forthcoming two-match T20I series versus hosts Ireland. Ahead of India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, in early July at Edgbaston, the Men in Blue are also scheduled to play Ireland for two T20Is.

Thus, for the short series, BCCI appointed Hardik Pandya as the captain&nbsp;with Bhuvneshwar Kumar serving as his deputy. The likes of regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, vice-captain KL Rahul (if fit), Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. will be preparing for the one-off red-ball match versus hosts England when Hardik &amp; Co. will play the Irish side in their own backyard, on June 26 and 28.

While the T20I squad comprises some experienced campaigners and has a host of young stars from the IPL, Gujarat Titans' (GT) all-rounder Rahul Tewatia was overlooked. Hence, the swashbuckling left-hander reacted to the Team India snub via a tweet from his official account:&nbsp;

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Expectations hurts 😒😒
— Rahul Tewatia (@rahultewatia02) <a href="https://twitter.com/rahultewatia02/status/1537153958153576448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hardik-pandya-named-india-captain-for-t20i-series-against-ireland-488520">Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland</a>

For the unversed, Tewatia had a decent IPL 2022, where he amassed&nbsp;217 runs at a strike rate of 147.61. With India's T20I line-up comprising several all-rounders such as captain Hardik, Bhuvi (who can bat a bit), Axar Patel, Venky Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Harshal Patel, Tewatia missed the bus. As he&nbsp;didn't bowl a single over in the 15th season of the IPL, it might have gone against his selection.

The 29-year-old still has reasons to be disappointed as he fared well as a finisher in IPL 15, better than Venky Iyer (with only 182 runs in 12 games, striking below 110), and this also can be termed as a huge&nbsp;opportunity missed with many white-ball regulars not part of the squad.

India's T20I squad:&nbsp;Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

On Wednesday evening (June 15), the BCCI selection committee announced a 17-member Team India squad for the forthcoming two-match T20I series versus hosts Ireland.

On Wednesday evening (June 15), the BCCI selection committee announced a 17-member Team India squad for the forthcoming two-match T20I series versus hosts Ireland. Ahead of India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, in early July at Edgbaston, the Men in Blue are also scheduled to play Ireland for two T20Is. Thus, for the short series, BCCI appointed Hardik Pandya as the captain with Bhuvneshwar Kumar serving as his deputy. The likes of regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, vice-captain KL Rahul (if fit), Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. will be preparing for the one-off red-ball match versus hosts England when Hardik & Co. will play the Irish side in their own backyard, on June 26 and 28. While the T20I squad comprises some experienced campaigners and has a host of young stars from the IPL, Gujarat Titans' (GT) all-rounder Rahul Tewatia was overlooked. Hence, the swashbuckling left-hander reacted to the Team India snub via a tweet from his official account: Expectations hurts 😒😒 — Rahul Tewatia (@rahultewatia02) June 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland For the unversed, Tewatia had a decent IPL 2022, where he amassed 217 runs at a strike rate of 147.61. With India's T20I line-up comprising several all-rounders such as captain Hardik, Bhuvi (who can bat a bit), Axar Patel, Venky Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Harshal Patel, Tewatia missed the bus. As he didn't bowl a single over in the 15th season of the IPL, it might have gone against his selection. The 29-year-old still has reasons to be disappointed as he fared well as a finisher in IPL 15, better than Venky Iyer (with only 182 runs in 12 games, striking below 110), and this also can be termed as a huge opportunity missed with many white-ball regulars not part of the squad. India's T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Gujarat Titans' finisher Rahul Tewatia responds to Team India snub for Ireland T20Is

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

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

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

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

KL Rahul has been in form for Team India, and also in the IPL, whereas he has also raised his stature by becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy across formats since the start of the year. When the Rohit Sharma-less Indian T20I squad was announced by the BCCI, for the ongoing home series versus South Africa, Rahul was set to lead India for the first in the shortest format.

However, Rahul picked up a groin injury and was ruled out. While he was racing against time to be fit for the forthcoming England tour, he is now set to miss the whole trip and will travel to Germany for treatment by end of this month or early July.&nbsp;Confirming the development to Cricbuzz, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah told Cricbuzz, "That is correct, the board is working on his fitness and he will be going to Germany soon."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vice-captain-kl-rahul-set-to-undergo-fitness-test-on-june-18-for-one-off-red-ball-match-vs-england-report-488492">Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report</a>

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The obvious implication of the overseas treatment is that the Indian vice-captain Rahul will miss the England tour, where Rohit &amp; Co.&nbsp;are set to play the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from last year's series, and three T20Is and ODIs each. The tour will kick off with the one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 whereas the white-ball matches will take place from July 07-17. In Rahul's absence, the Indian selectors will have to name Rohit's deputy and there are high chances that the post will go to pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has&nbsp;served as the vice-captain earlier&nbsp;in Rahul or Rohit's absence.&nbsp;

Rahul's absence will surely hurt the visitors, who also was their second-highest run-getter (third overall) in the four Tests --&nbsp;of the five-match series -- played between India and hosts England last year.
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KL Rahul has been in form for Team India, and also in the IPL, whereas he has also raised his stature by becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy across formats since the start of the year.

KL Rahul has been in form for Team India, and also in the IPL, whereas he has also raised his stature by becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy across formats since the start of the year. When the Rohit Sharma-less Indian T20I squad was announced by the BCCI, for the ongoing home series versus South Africa, Rahul was set to lead India for the first in the shortest format. However, Rahul picked up a groin injury and was ruled out. While he was racing against time to be fit for the forthcoming England tour, he is now set to miss the whole trip and will travel to Germany for treatment by end of this month or early July. Confirming the development to Cricbuzz, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah told Cricbuzz, "That is correct, the board is working on his fitness and he will be going to Germany soon." ALSO READ | Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report The obvious implication of the overseas treatment is that the Indian vice-captain Rahul will miss the England tour, where Rohit & Co. are set to play the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from last year's series, and three T20Is and ODIs each. The tour will kick off with the one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 whereas the white-ball matches will take place from July 07-17. In Rahul's absence, the Indian selectors will have to name Rohit's deputy and there are high chances that the post will go to pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has served as the vice-captain earlier in Rahul or Rohit's absence. Rahul's absence will surely hurt the visitors, who also was their second-highest run-getter (third overall) in the four Tests -- of the five-match series -- played between India and hosts England last year.

Indian vice-captain KL Rahul to miss England tour, to leave for Germany for treatment: Report

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. The 35-year-old Sharma along with Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant and others will be in England for the rescheduled 5th Test when another Indian squad will play T20Is in Ireland. 
 
The 17-member squad for the series against Ireland, also have a place for Rahul Tripathi, who has done consistently well in IPL. Sanju Samson has also been recalled to the side after being neglected for the series against South Africa. 
 
India will play two T20Is on June 26th and 28th in Dublin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. The 35-year-old Sharma along with Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant and others will be in England for the rescheduled 5th Test when another Indian squad will play T20Is in Ireland. The 17-member squad for the series against Ireland, also have a place for Rahul Tripathi, who has done consistently well in IPL. Sanju Samson has also been recalled to the side after being neglected for the series against South Africa. India will play two T20Is on June 26th and 28th in Dublin. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, the talented 30-year-old suffered a huge setback as a groin injury led to his omission from the home series.

While a second-stringed Indian team is set to travel to Ireland for two T20Is, Rahul is expected to be part of the Rohit Sharma-led red-ball side ahead of their one-off Test versus hosts England, starting on July 1. Nonetheless, a report in Cricbuzz recently stated that the vice-captain Rahul has been ruled out of the England Test. Now, another report has emerged saying that he remains in contention but will have to undergo a fitness test on Saturday (June 18).

As per&nbsp;Insidesport.in, Rahul will go through a fitness test later this week&nbsp;and will board the plane to the UK if he is deemed fit.&nbsp;“It’s a slow process. His recovery has been slow and that’s not a good sign. We have 3-4 days before the second batch leaves. There will be a light fitness test on Saturday. If he clears that, he will board the flight. If he doesn’t, we will wait for him to continue recovery process. He is certainly not ruled out at this stage,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by&nbsp;InsideSport.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

Rahul had been in sublime form during the five-match Test series versus England in 2021. The right-handed opener was India's third-highest run-scorer (315 runs with a hundred and fifty each) before the Covid-19 virus halted the series before the fifth and final Test, which will now be played in&nbsp;Edgbaston, followed by&nbsp;six&nbsp;white-ball matches from July 07-17.
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KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, the talented 30-year-old suffered a huge setback as a groin injury led to his omission from the home series. While a second-stringed Indian team is set to travel to Ireland for two T20Is, Rahul is expected to be part of the Rohit Sharma-led red-ball side ahead of their one-off Test versus hosts England, starting on July 1. Nonetheless, a report in Cricbuzz recently stated that the vice-captain Rahul has been ruled out of the England Test. Now, another report has emerged saying that he remains in contention but will have to undergo a fitness test on Saturday (June 18). As per Insidesport.in, Rahul will go through a fitness test later this week and will board the plane to the UK if he is deemed fit. “It’s a slow process. His recovery has been slow and that’s not a good sign. We have 3-4 days before the second batch leaves. There will be a light fitness test on Saturday. If he clears that, he will board the flight. If he doesn’t, we will wait for him to continue recovery process. He is certainly not ruled out at this stage,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form Rahul had been in sublime form during the five-match Test series versus England in 2021. The right-handed opener was India's third-highest run-scorer (315 runs with a hundred and fifty each) before the Covid-19 virus halted the series before the fifth and final Test, which will now be played in Edgbaston, followed by six white-ball matches from July 07-17.

Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli hasn't had a great run at the highest level in the post-Covid era. Before the pandemic struck worldwide, Kohli had registered his 70th international ton -- second-most among Indians and third-overall -- but has struggled to reach the triple-figure mark&nbsp;in any format at any level since November 2019.

Even in the IPL 2022 edition, where Kohli represented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) sans captaincy duties, the 33-year-old ended with his second-worst season, after IPL 2010, and returned with 341 runs (with two half-centuries) at an average of 22.73 and a strike rate of&nbsp;115.98. Thus, he has been given some time off from the 22-yard cricket strip, which had been a piece of popular advice by many former cricketers after seeing his struggles during IPL 15. Amid all this, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi joined the bandwagon and commented on Kohli's dry run.

Speaking to Samaa TV, Afridi talked about 'attitude' and pointed out, "In cricket, attitude matters the most. That is what I talk about the most. Do you have the attitude towards cricket or not? That Kohli, earlier in his career, wanted to be the No. 1 batsman in the world… is he still playing cricket with the same motivation? That is the big question. He has the class. But does he really even want to be No. 1 again? Or does he think he has achieved everything in life. Now just relax and pass time? It's all about attitude."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-nz-joe-root-joins-virat-kohli-steve-smith-in-elite-list-goes-past-ex-indian-openers-run-tally-487682">Eng vs NZ: Joe Root joins Virat Kohli, Steve Smith in elite list; goes past ex-Indian opener's run-tally</a>

Since Afridi talked about being 'No. 1', Kohli is at the tenth spot for batters in ICC Test rankings and at the third position in ODIs. In T20Is, he is not even in the top 20 (21st position).

At present, Kohli is enjoying some family time and is not part of the Rohit Sharma-less Indian squad for the ongoing home T20Is versus South Africa. He will return for the one-off Test versus hosts England, in July.

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli hasn't had a great run at the highest level in the post-Covid era. Before the pandemic struck worldwide, Kohli had registered his 70th international ton -- second-most among Indians and third-overall -- but has struggled to reach the triple-figure mark in any format at any level since November 2019.

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli hasn't had a great run at the highest level in the post-Covid era. Before the pandemic struck worldwide, Kohli had registered his 70th international ton -- second-most among Indians and third-overall -- but has struggled to reach the triple-figure mark in any format at any level since November 2019. Even in the IPL 2022 edition, where Kohli represented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) sans captaincy duties, the 33-year-old ended with his second-worst season, after IPL 2010, and returned with 341 runs (with two half-centuries) at an average of 22.73 and a strike rate of 115.98. Thus, he has been given some time off from the 22-yard cricket strip, which had been a piece of popular advice by many former cricketers after seeing his struggles during IPL 15. Amid all this, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi joined the bandwagon and commented on Kohli's dry run. Speaking to Samaa TV, Afridi talked about 'attitude' and pointed out, "In cricket, attitude matters the most. That is what I talk about the most. Do you have the attitude towards cricket or not? That Kohli, earlier in his career, wanted to be the No. 1 batsman in the world… is he still playing cricket with the same motivation? That is the big question. He has the class. But does he really even want to be No. 1 again? Or does he think he has achieved everything in life. Now just relax and pass time? It's all about attitude." ALSO READ | Eng vs NZ: Joe Root joins Virat Kohli, Steve Smith in elite list; goes past ex-Indian opener's run-tally Since Afridi talked about being 'No. 1', Kohli is at the tenth spot for batters in ICC Test rankings and at the third position in ODIs. In T20Is, he is not even in the top 20 (21st position). At present, Kohli is enjoying some family time and is not part of the Rohit Sharma-less Indian squad for the ongoing home T20Is versus South Africa. He will return for the one-off Test versus hosts England, in July.

'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam.

In reply, Indian bowlers combined to apply the brakes on Temba Bavuma-led South Africa's run-scoring as the visitors were dismissed for&nbsp;131 in 19.1 overs&nbsp;in their full quota of overs, to lose by a convincing margin. Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer derailed SA's progress with the bat. Talking about Chahal, the Player-of-the-Match from the third T20I was under pressure after he returned with a solitary wicket in the first two games, where he conceded a total of 75 runs in 6.1 overs.

Thus, Chahal revealed the reason for his success as the wily wrist-spinner stated that he varied his lengths after bowling either too full or too short in the earlier games. In addition, the 31-year-old resorted to his main strength, i.e. bowling the classic leg-spin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/clinical-india-keep-series-alive-with-48-run-win-over-south-africa-488228">Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa</a>

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Chahal said, "I was bowling too many quick ones and quick sliders in the last game. I spoke to Paras sir and coaches about it. So I tried to bowl quick leg breaks, but with a different seam position today. I want to turn and dip the ball, I couldn't do it the last time so they were able to hit through the line."

"I tried to get some turn and change the line of the ball. I was trying to bowl to my strengths today. When you get middle-order batsmen out in the middle overs, the pressure is on them. Batsmen try a lot of sweeps and reverse sweeps these days so we have to be prepared for that too, as bowlers. In the last game too there was some help for spinners but I didn't bowl that well. The ground is big, thankfully in Rajkot,” Chahal said with a chuckle.

<section>After the win, India will shift their focus to the fourth and penultimate match, in Rajkot, on Friday evening (June 17). Meanwhile, Bavuma &amp; Co. continue to lead the series 2-1 and will push for an unassailable lead in the next tie.</section>

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam.

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam. In reply, Indian bowlers combined to apply the brakes on Temba Bavuma-led South Africa's run-scoring as the visitors were dismissed for 131 in 19.1 overs in their full quota of overs, to lose by a convincing margin. Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer derailed SA's progress with the bat. Talking about Chahal, the Player-of-the-Match from the third T20I was under pressure after he returned with a solitary wicket in the first two games, where he conceded a total of 75 runs in 6.1 overs. Thus, Chahal revealed the reason for his success as the wily wrist-spinner stated that he varied his lengths after bowling either too full or too short in the earlier games. In addition, the 31-year-old resorted to his main strength, i.e. bowling the classic leg-spin. ALSO READ | Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa Speaking at the post-match presentation, Chahal said, "I was bowling too many quick ones and quick sliders in the last game. I spoke to Paras sir and coaches about it. So I tried to bowl quick leg breaks, but with a different seam position today. I want to turn and dip the ball, I couldn't do it the last time so they were able to hit through the line." "I tried to get some turn and change the line of the ball. I was trying to bowl to my strengths today. When you get middle-order batsmen out in the middle overs, the pressure is on them. Batsmen try a lot of sweeps and reverse sweeps these days so we have to be prepared for that too, as bowlers. In the last game too there was some help for spinners but I didn't bowl that well. The ground is big, thankfully in Rajkot,” Chahal said with a chuckle. After the win, India will shift their focus to the fourth and penultimate match, in Rajkot, on Friday evening (June 17). Meanwhile, Bavuma & Co. continue to lead the series 2-1 and will push for an unassailable lead in the next tie.

Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA

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

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

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

Joe Root has been in unbelievable form for England in the purest format since the start of 2021. Since then, he has added 10 more tons to his overall century-tally in whites and equalled with other Fab Four members such as Virat Kohli and Steve Smith to now have 27 Test hundreds apiece. During the ongoing England-New Zealand Tests, Root has been in sublime form and also crossed the 10,000-run mark during the series opener at Lord's.

Root has so far amassed two big hundreds in the NZ series and, hence, has earned applause from all corners. Recently, the former England Test skipper also surpassed Sunil Gavaskar's run-tally in the format (10,112) after becoming&nbsp;only the 14th player, overall, and second Englishman to reach the elusive 10,000-run mark. For the unversed, he is now the only active cricketer closest to Sachin Tendulkar's run-tally (15,921), who remains the leading run-scorer in Tests. Thus, Gavaskar opined on Root's chances of surpassing SRT's magical figure.&nbsp;

"That is an insurmountable record because we are talking about another almost 6000 runs, which means you would have to score about 1000 runs or 800 runs over the next 8 years for you to get there," Sunil Gavaskar said during an interaction with India Today. The Little Master, however, added&nbsp;that at 31, Root still has plenty of cricket left on his side and, thus, has a slim chance of achieving the target. "Joe Root has got age on his side. He certainly can if he can maintain that enthusiasm and go on," added Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-nz-root-smashes-southee-for-6-with-a-stunning-reverse-sweep-on-day-4-of-2nd-test-watch-487832">Eng vs NZ: Root smashes Southee for 6 with a stunning reverse-sweep on Day 4 of 2nd Test - WATCH</a>

At present, Root-starrer England is involved in a humdinger of a second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. At lunch on the finay day, England are 36 for 1 in pursuit of a challenging 299-run target set by the Tom Latham-led Black Caps. The series is currently led by England following their five-wicket win in the series opener.

Joe Root has been in unbelievable form for England in the purest format since the start of 2021. Since then, he has added 10 more tons to his overall century-tally in whites and equalled with other Fab Four members such as Virat Kohli and Steve Smith to now have 27 Test hundreds apiece.

Joe Root has been in unbelievable form for England in the purest format since the start of 2021. Since then, he has added 10 more tons to his overall century-tally in whites and equalled with other Fab Four members such as Virat Kohli and Steve Smith to now have 27 Test hundreds apiece. During the ongoing England-New Zealand Tests, Root has been in sublime form and also crossed the 10,000-run mark during the series opener at Lord's. Root has so far amassed two big hundreds in the NZ series and, hence, has earned applause from all corners. Recently, the former England Test skipper also surpassed Sunil Gavaskar's run-tally in the format (10,112) after becoming only the 14th player, overall, and second Englishman to reach the elusive 10,000-run mark. For the unversed, he is now the only active cricketer closest to Sachin Tendulkar's run-tally (15,921), who remains the leading run-scorer in Tests. Thus, Gavaskar opined on Root's chances of surpassing SRT's magical figure. "That is an insurmountable record because we are talking about another almost 6000 runs, which means you would have to score about 1000 runs or 800 runs over the next 8 years for you to get there," Sunil Gavaskar said during an interaction with India Today. The Little Master, however, added that at 31, Root still has plenty of cricket left on his side and, thus, has a slim chance of achieving the target. "Joe Root has got age on his side. He certainly can if he can maintain that enthusiasm and go on," added Gavaskar. ALSO READ | Eng vs NZ: Root smashes Southee for 6 with a stunning reverse-sweep on Day 4 of 2nd Test - WATCH At present, Root-starrer England is involved in a humdinger of a second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. At lunch on the finay day, England are 36 for 1 in pursuit of a challenging 299-run target set by the Tom Latham-led Black Caps. The series is currently led by England following their five-wicket win in the series opener.

Will Joe Root surpass Sachin Tendulkar's run-tally in Tests? Sunil Gavaskar shares his take

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

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

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

Pakistan have left India behind in the ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after completing a clean sweep over West Indies in Multan. Babar Azam`s side jumped a spot to No 4 in the latest ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after the series win over West Indies in Multan. Team India is currently at the fifth spot. Before the start of the series, Pakistan were placed fifth in the rankings with a rating of 102. But the 3-0 clean sweep over the Windies has boosted them to No 4 with a rating of 106, leaving India behind at 105. Pakistan have enjoyed a brilliant last couple of years in the 50-over format.

Apart from the blip against England away from home, they have taken on all comers and emerged victorious, including 2-1 series wins against Zimbabwe and South Africa. They defeated Australia by the same margin when they came to visit Pakistan for the first time since 1998. West Indies stood no chance against Pakistan as they were rampaged 3-0. This period of upsurgence has come under the captaincy of Babar Azam, who has led by example for Pakistan in all formats of the game. With his recent century in the first match against West Indies, he became the first batter to score three consecutive ODI centuries twice, having previously achieved the feat in 2016 as well. And with a fifty in the second ODI, he broke the world record for most consecutive 50+ scores (9) in men`s international cricket across all formats.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-penalised-5-runs-after-babar-azam-guilty-of-illegal-fielding-in-2nd-odi-vs-west-indies-487175">WATCH: Pakistan penalised 5 runs after Babar Azam guilty of 'illegal fielding' in 2nd ODI vs West Indies</a>

The top-ranked ODI batter has built a troop of trusted players along the way. One of them is Imam-ul-Haq, who has enjoyed a purple patch of late and has seven scores of 50+ in his last seven ODIs to show for his efforts. ICC Men`s Player of the Year Shaheen Afridi has been the leader of the pack of bowlers that consists of Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan, among others.

India, though, will have a chance to climb the rankings as they play England and West Indies (three ODIs each) before Pakistan play their next ODI series in August.&nbsp;

Pakistan have left India behind in the ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after completing a clean sweep over West Indies in Multan. Babar Azam`s side jumped a spot to No 4 in the latest ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after the series win over West Indies in Multan.

Pakistan have left India behind in the ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after completing a clean sweep over West Indies in Multan. Babar Azam`s side jumped a spot to No 4 in the latest ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after the series win over West Indies in Multan. Team India is currently at the fifth spot. Before the start of the series, Pakistan were placed fifth in the rankings with a rating of 102. But the 3-0 clean sweep over the Windies has boosted them to No 4 with a rating of 106, leaving India behind at 105. Pakistan have enjoyed a brilliant last couple of years in the 50-over format. Apart from the blip against England away from home, they have taken on all comers and emerged victorious, including 2-1 series wins against Zimbabwe and South Africa. They defeated Australia by the same margin when they came to visit Pakistan for the first time since 1998. West Indies stood no chance against Pakistan as they were rampaged 3-0. This period of upsurgence has come under the captaincy of Babar Azam, who has led by example for Pakistan in all formats of the game. With his recent century in the first match against West Indies, he became the first batter to score three consecutive ODI centuries twice, having previously achieved the feat in 2016 as well. And with a fifty in the second ODI, he broke the world record for most consecutive 50+ scores (9) in men`s international cricket across all formats. ALSO READ | WATCH: Pakistan penalised 5 runs after Babar Azam guilty of 'illegal fielding' in 2nd ODI vs West Indies The top-ranked ODI batter has built a troop of trusted players along the way. One of them is Imam-ul-Haq, who has enjoyed a purple patch of late and has seven scores of 50+ in his last seven ODIs to show for his efforts. ICC Men`s Player of the Year Shaheen Afridi has been the leader of the pack of bowlers that consists of Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan, among others. India, though, will have a chance to climb the rankings as they play England and West Indies (three ODIs each) before Pakistan play their next ODI series in August.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan surpass Team India in ICC ODI Team Rankings

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