Anil Kumble served as Team India's head coach for a year, from early 2016 to mid-2017. While he had a successful run as the head coach of the senior men's team, his tenure ended unceremoniously following his infamous fallout with then captain Virat Kohli.

As a result, Kumble's tenure came to an end after India's massive 2017 Champions Trophy final loss, to Pakistan, and the former leg-spinner was replaced by Ravi Shastri at the top job. A lot has been said and written about Kohli's relationship with Kumble and how the two created differences, which led to the ouster of the latter.&nbsp;

In his book&nbsp;Not Just a Nightwatchman, former Auditor General (CAG)&nbsp;Vinod Rai&nbsp;has revealed that Kohli had stated that “young members of the Indian team felt intimidated by Kumble”. While Rai maintained that the relationship between Kohli and Kumble was quite strained and going downhill,&nbsp;things could've been handled in a much better way than how it finally turned out to be.

"In my conversations with the captain and team management, it was conveyed that Kumble was too much of a disciplinarian and hence the team members were not too happy with him. I had spoken to Virat Kohli on the issue and he did mention that the younger members of the team felt intimidated by the way he worked with them,” Rai has written in his book.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a>

“We had long conversations with Kumble after he had returned from the UK. He was obviously upset about the manner in which the entire episode had panned out. He felt he had been unfairly treated and a captain or team should not be given so much importance. It was the duty of the coach to bring discipline and professionalism into the team and as a senior, his views should have been respected by the players,” Rai further wrote.

<section>
“They felt that the differences were fairly severe and maybe it was only the CAC that would be best suited to have a thorough discussion with both of them. Soon, the CAC met in London and interacted with the two separately, in a bid to resolve the issue. After deliberations over three days, they decided to recommend Kumble’s reappointment as the head coach,” Rai&nbsp;pointed out&nbsp;in his book.

The Kohli-Kumble partnership was short-lived, however, the duo enjoyed a dream run as captain-coach for a year. During Kumble's coaching period, India were unbeaten at home -- in four back-to-back Test series -- whereas they also reached the summit clash of the 2017 Champions Trophy, in England and Wales.&nbsp;

After Kumble's departure, Shastri took over as the head coach and formed a lethal pair with Kohli till 2021 end.&nbsp;
</section>

Anil Kumble served as Team India's head coach for a year, from early 2016 to mid-2017. While he had a successful run as the head coach of the senior men's team, his tenure ended unceremoniously following his infamous fallout with then captain Virat Kohli.

Anil Kumble served as Team India's head coach for a year, from early 2016 to mid-2017. While he had a successful run as the head coach of the senior men's team, his tenure ended unceremoniously following his infamous fallout with then captain Virat Kohli. As a result, Kumble's tenure came to an end after India's massive 2017 Champions Trophy final loss, to Pakistan, and the former leg-spinner was replaced by Ravi Shastri at the top job. A lot has been said and written about Kohli's relationship with Kumble and how the two created differences, which led to the ouster of the latter. In his book Not Just a Nightwatchman, former Auditor General (CAG) Vinod Rai has revealed that Kohli had stated that “young members of the Indian team felt intimidated by Kumble”. While Rai maintained that the relationship between Kohli and Kumble was quite strained and going downhill, things could've been handled in a much better way than how it finally turned out to be. "In my conversations with the captain and team management, it was conveyed that Kumble was too much of a disciplinarian and hence the team members were not too happy with him. I had spoken to Virat Kohli on the issue and he did mention that the younger members of the team felt intimidated by the way he worked with them,” Rai has written in his book. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official “We had long conversations with Kumble after he had returned from the UK. He was obviously upset about the manner in which the entire episode had panned out. He felt he had been unfairly treated and a captain or team should not be given so much importance. It was the duty of the coach to bring discipline and professionalism into the team and as a senior, his views should have been respected by the players,” Rai further wrote. “They felt that the differences were fairly severe and maybe it was only the CAC that would be best suited to have a thorough discussion with both of them. Soon, the CAC met in London and interacted with the two separately, in a bid to resolve the issue. After deliberations over three days, they decided to recommend Kumble’s reappointment as the head coach,” Rai pointed out in his book. The Kohli-Kumble partnership was short-lived, however, the duo enjoyed a dream run as captain-coach for a year. During Kumble's coaching period, India were unbeaten at home -- in four back-to-back Test series -- whereas they also reached the summit clash of the 2017 Champions Trophy, in England and Wales. After Kumble's departure, Shastri took over as the head coach and formed a lethal pair with Kohli till 2021 end.

Younger members of the team felt intimidated by Anil Kumble: Vinod Rai reveals chat with Virat Kohli

A lot has changed in Indian cricket post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Since then, Rohit Sharma has taken charge of Team India across formats whereas Rahul Dravid succeeded Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the senior men's team. While the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha have been dropped from the Test side, youngsters such as Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Md Siraj and KL Rahul are rising in stature with each series.&nbsp;

Talking about Pant, the 24-year-old has seen massive growth in his international career since the India-Australia 2020-21 series Down Under. Since then, he has scored runs across all forms of the game and improved immensely as a wicketkeeper. Recently, India's batting coach Vikram Rathour heaped praise on the Indian youngster and feels that he is now a matured cricketer who cannot be dropped easily.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-talking-to-rohit-sharma-ms-dhoni-rishabh-pant-recalls-his-tough-phase-before-miraculous-comeback-468334">'I was talking to Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni' - Rishabh Pant recalls his tough phase before miraculous comeback</a>

In this regard, Rathour told The Week, "He has suddenly grown up. Rohit and Dravid are in the saddle now, and he knows he is an important player in the India setup. He has now matured as a player. He is getting better and better, but there is still a long way to cover."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reveals-what-he-would-do-first-if-he-woke-up-as-portugal-captain-cristiano-ronaldo-468304">Virat Kohli reveals what he would do first if he woke up as Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo</a>

Rathour also feels that Pant has it in him to succeed MS Dhoni and become the next finisher for Team India. Following Dhoni's international retirement, the role of a finisher has been fulfilled by the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, however, Rathour feels Pant is suited to make an impact lower down the order (despite being experimented to bat at No. 4).

"He will be a finisher at number five or six, he knows that. Nobody is pushing him to get a hundred in ODIs. He will always be an impact player and if he is consistently getting 40-50 and winning it for the team, then that is fine," Rathour added.

Pant is currently involved with the Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2022 edition. Under him, DC have won and lost a game each after their opening two encounters in the 15th season.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Since then, Rohit Sharma has taken charge of Team India across formats whereas Rahul Dravid succeeded Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the senior men's team.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Since then, Rohit Sharma has taken charge of Team India across formats whereas Rahul Dravid succeeded Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the senior men's team. While the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha have been dropped from the Test side, youngsters such as Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Md Siraj and KL Rahul are rising in stature with each series. Talking about Pant, the 24-year-old has seen massive growth in his international career since the India-Australia 2020-21 series Down Under. Since then, he has scored runs across all forms of the game and improved immensely as a wicketkeeper. Recently, India's batting coach Vikram Rathour heaped praise on the Indian youngster and feels that he is now a matured cricketer who cannot be dropped easily. ALSO READ | 'I was talking to Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni' - Rishabh Pant recalls his tough phase before miraculous comeback In this regard, Rathour told The Week, "He has suddenly grown up. Rohit and Dravid are in the saddle now, and he knows he is an important player in the India setup. He has now matured as a player. He is getting better and better, but there is still a long way to cover." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli reveals what he would do first if he woke up as Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo Rathour also feels that Pant has it in him to succeed MS Dhoni and become the next finisher for Team India. Following Dhoni's international retirement, the role of a finisher has been fulfilled by the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, however, Rathour feels Pant is suited to make an impact lower down the order (despite being experimented to bat at No. 4). "He will be a finisher at number five or six, he knows that. Nobody is pushing him to get a hundred in ODIs. He will always be an impact player and if he is consistently getting 40-50 and winning it for the team, then that is fine," Rathour added. Pant is currently involved with the Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2022 edition. Under him, DC have won and lost a game each after their opening two encounters in the 15th season.

Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid are in the saddle now: Vikram Rathour heaps praise on Indian youngster

Rishabh Pant has become an all-format player for Team India. Things, however, weren't the same for the swashbuckling left-hander post India's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign. After IPL 2020, questions were raised for his shot selection, fitness and wicketkeeping skills as many former cricketers and experts slammed his approach towards the game.

Nonetheless, Pant answered his critics in style after the conclusion of the 13th IPL season, in the UAE. The 24-year-old got a chance in India's MCG Test versus Australia during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and hasn't looked behind ever since. Since then, Pant has slammed six half-centuries and two tons in red-ball format, four fifties in ODIs and has played some vital cameos in the shortest format as well. Moreover, his keeping has improved leaps and bounds whereas he is also the Delhi Capitals (DC) captain in the IPL.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reveals-what-he-would-do-first-if-he-woke-up-as-portugal-captain-cristiano-ronaldo-468304">Virat Kohli reveals what he would do first if he woke up as Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo</a>

Recently, Pant recalled&nbsp;his tough phase at the highest level during an interaction to&nbsp;The Week&nbsp;magazine. The young keeper-batter revealed that&nbsp;he didn't want to talk to anybody and only spoke a little to&nbsp;Rohit Sharma&nbsp;and MS Dhoni. He stated, "It was a hard time and I shut out everyone. It was difficult for me to go to many people. I only believed in myself; I wanted to prove myself to the world. I did not want to think negative thoughts. I was waiting for my chance. I was talking to Rohit bhai and Mahi ]Dhoni] bhai a little bit. But mostly I kept believing in myself."

"It was obviously very challenging. That was a low phase in my life. You feel good when you come from hard times and play like that (50 off 101 against England). But, at the same time, I do not think of either [fifties] too much. I just play on the merit of the ball. [However,] I did find that I could control my instincts better," Pant added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-didnt-get-a-move-on-sunil-gavaskar-explains-reason-behind-csks-61-run-loss-vs-punjab-kings-468230">'MS Dhoni didn't get a move on': Sunil Gavaskar explains reason behind CSK's 61-run loss vs Punjab Kings</a>
At present, Pant is going great guns and will be eager to make a strong statement as a leader during the ongoing IPL 2022 edition. Under him, DC reached the playoffs in IPL 2021 and have won and lost a game each after two encounters in the 15th season.</section>

Rishabh Pant has become an all-format player for Team India. Things, however, weren't the same for the swashbuckling left-hander post India's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign.

Rishabh Pant has become an all-format player for Team India. Things, however, weren't the same for the swashbuckling left-hander post India's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign. After IPL 2020, questions were raised for his shot selection, fitness and wicketkeeping skills as many former cricketers and experts slammed his approach towards the game. Nonetheless, Pant answered his critics in style after the conclusion of the 13th IPL season, in the UAE. The 24-year-old got a chance in India's MCG Test versus Australia during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and hasn't looked behind ever since. Since then, Pant has slammed six half-centuries and two tons in red-ball format, four fifties in ODIs and has played some vital cameos in the shortest format as well. Moreover, his keeping has improved leaps and bounds whereas he is also the Delhi Capitals (DC) captain in the IPL. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli reveals what he would do first if he woke up as Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo Recently, Pant recalled his tough phase at the highest level during an interaction to The Week magazine. The young keeper-batter revealed that he didn't want to talk to anybody and only spoke a little to Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni. He stated, "It was a hard time and I shut out everyone. It was difficult for me to go to many people. I only believed in myself; I wanted to prove myself to the world. I did not want to think negative thoughts. I was waiting for my chance. I was talking to Rohit bhai and Mahi ]Dhoni] bhai a little bit. But mostly I kept believing in myself." "It was obviously very challenging. That was a low phase in my life. You feel good when you come from hard times and play like that (50 off 101 against England). But, at the same time, I do not think of either [fifties] too much. I just play on the merit of the ball. [However,] I did find that I could control my instincts better," Pant added. ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni didn't get a move on': Sunil Gavaskar explains reason behind CSK's 61-run loss vs Punjab Kings At present, Pant is going great guns and will be eager to make a strong statement as a leader during the ongoing IPL 2022 edition. Under him, DC reached the playoffs in IPL 2021 and have won and lost a game each after two encounters in the 15th season.

'I was talking to Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni' - Rishabh Pant recalls his tough phase before miraculous comeback

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly believes his former teammate Rahul Dravid has all the attributes for becoming successful in his current role as the coach of the Indian cricket team.

Ganguly feels Dravid's "intense, meticulous and professional" attitude are just the ingredients a coach needs to be successful in the high-pressure India job.

"He (Dravid) is as intense, as meticulous and as professional as he was during his playing days," the former India captain said on the sidelines of a promotional event here on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alyssa-healys-stunning-ton-helps-australia-thrash-new-zealand-to-lift-record-7th-womens-world-cup-trophy-467890">Alyssa Healy's sensational ton helps Australia thrash New Zealand to lift record 7th Women's World Cup trophy</a>

"The only difference is that now he does not have to bat at No. 3 for India which I feel was harder since he had to face the best bowlers of the world which he also did exceptionally well for a long period of time," he added.

"As a coach also he (Dravid) will do a remarkable job as he honest and he has the talent.

Being the BCCI chief, Ganguly was in instrumental in roping in Dravid as India coach, replacing Ravi Shastri after the T20 World Cup last year.

"He will make mistakes as everybody does but as long as you try doing the right things you will achieve success more than others," Ganguly said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alyssa-healy-breaks-adam-gilchrists-record-with-a-stunning-knock-against-england-in-womens-wc-final-467885">Alyssa Healy breaks Adam Gilchrist's record with a stunning knock against England in Women's WC final</a>

The BCCI top official, however, refused to compare Dravid with his predecessor Shastri.

"They are different people with different personalities. One is at you all the time which is his strength while the other will quietly do his job inspite of being one of the greatest of all time," Ganguly said.

"No two people will be successful the same way."

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly believes his former teammate Rahul Dravid has all the attributes for becoming successful in his current role as the coach of the Indian cricket team.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly believes his former teammate Rahul Dravid has all the attributes for becoming successful in his current role as the coach of the Indian cricket team. Ganguly feels Dravid's "intense, meticulous and professional" attitude are just the ingredients a coach needs to be successful in the high-pressure India job. "He (Dravid) is as intense, as meticulous and as professional as he was during his playing days," the former India captain said on the sidelines of a promotional event here on Saturday. ALSO READ: Alyssa Healy's sensational ton helps Australia thrash New Zealand to lift record 7th Women's World Cup trophy "The only difference is that now he does not have to bat at No. 3 for India which I feel was harder since he had to face the best bowlers of the world which he also did exceptionally well for a long period of time," he added. "As a coach also he (Dravid) will do a remarkable job as he honest and he has the talent. Being the BCCI chief, Ganguly was in instrumental in roping in Dravid as India coach, replacing Ravi Shastri after the T20 World Cup last year. "He will make mistakes as everybody does but as long as you try doing the right things you will achieve success more than others," Ganguly said. ALSO READ: Alyssa Healy breaks Adam Gilchrist's record with a stunning knock against England in Women's WC final The BCCI top official, however, refused to compare Dravid with his predecessor Shastri. "They are different people with different personalities. One is at you all the time which is his strength while the other will quietly do his job inspite of being one of the greatest of all time," Ganguly said. "No two people will be successful the same way."

Rahul Dravid will do remarkable job as India coach, says BCCI President Sourav Ganguly

Virat Kohli remains the poster boy of Indian cricket despite not being the captain across formats. In mid-September, the superstar cricketer announced that he will resign as the shortest format's&nbsp;captain post India's campaign in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Post the T20 WC, radical changes were made in the Team India setup. While Kohli was sacked as the ODI skipper, he also went onto step down as the Test captain in early 2022. Amid all this, he had already given up Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captaincy after Bengaluru's end of campaign in IPL 2021. Thus, resuming as a pure batter for India and the RCB franchise, Kohli's brand valuation has taken a dip as well.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-is-as-close-as-it-gets-to-ms-dhoni-faf-du-plessis-lauds-rcbs-finisher-after-kkr-win-467160">Dinesh Karthik is as close as it gets to MS Dhoni: Faf du Plessis lauds RCB's finisher after KKR win</a>

According to a report filed by&nbsp;TimesofIndia, the 33-year-old Kohli's brand valuation has shrunk from around $238 million in 2020 to $186 million in the next year (2021). Despite the dip, the former India and RCB skipper continues to hold&nbsp;the top spot in the top celebrity endorser list. This is for the fifth consecutive time that he has retained the No. 1 spot&nbsp;in India's top celebrity endorser list, staying ahead of the likes of Ranveer Singh (second), Akshay Kumar (third), Alia Bhatt (fourth) and MS Dhoni (fifth). Moreover, India's full-time captain Rohit Sharma occupies the 13th spot (with brand value of USD 32.2 million).

On the other hand, Dhoni's brand valuation has also seen an increase (to $61 million).&nbsp;"There were rumours that Dhoni quit the Indian Premier League (IPL). But he turned it around by taking Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a win and transitioning to the role of a mentor for the national team,” Aviral Jain, MD, Duff &amp; Phelps (A Kroll Business) told TOI. He further added, "Dhoni has become a timeless brand similar to Sachin Tendulkar."

“Brand value is directly proportional to eyeballs, focus and the chemistry the brand is able to create among its users and fans. More so in the case of a persona brand from the world of cricket,” said Harish Bijoor who is the founder of Harish Bijoor Consults.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-suresh-raina-ms-dhoni-and-ab-de-villiers-were-the-most-challenging-to-bowl-to-says-sandeep-sharma-467156">EXCLUSIVE: Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni and AB de Villiers were the most challenging to bowl to, says Sandeep Sharma</a>

“Kohli’s brand valuation is down. It is bound to be. He no longer sports the India captain’s cap. He no longer bears the RCB mantle, as well. New names occupy these positions today. As each of them deepen their brand valuation, Kohli will weaken his. It’s all part of the game. Part of the game is called branding!,” Bijoor pointed out.

At present, both Dhoni and Kohli are involved in the IPL 2022 edition. Dhoni has stepped down as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain whereas Kohli-starrer RCB is being led by Faf du Plessis.

Virat Kohli remains the poster boy of Indian cricket despite not being the captain across formats. In mid-September, the superstar cricketer announced that he will resign as the shortest format's captain post India's campaign in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Virat Kohli remains the poster boy of Indian cricket despite not being the captain across formats. In mid-September, the superstar cricketer announced that he will resign as the shortest format's captain post India's campaign in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Post the T20 WC, radical changes were made in the Team India setup. While Kohli was sacked as the ODI skipper, he also went onto step down as the Test captain in early 2022. Amid all this, he had already given up Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captaincy after Bengaluru's end of campaign in IPL 2021. Thus, resuming as a pure batter for India and the RCB franchise, Kohli's brand valuation has taken a dip as well. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik is as close as it gets to MS Dhoni: Faf du Plessis lauds RCB's finisher after KKR win According to a report filed by TimesofIndia, the 33-year-old Kohli's brand valuation has shrunk from around $238 million in 2020 to $186 million in the next year (2021). Despite the dip, the former India and RCB skipper continues to hold the top spot in the top celebrity endorser list. This is for the fifth consecutive time that he has retained the No. 1 spot in India's top celebrity endorser list, staying ahead of the likes of Ranveer Singh (second), Akshay Kumar (third), Alia Bhatt (fourth) and MS Dhoni (fifth). Moreover, India's full-time captain Rohit Sharma occupies the 13th spot (with brand value of USD 32.2 million). On the other hand, Dhoni's brand valuation has also seen an increase (to $61 million). "There were rumours that Dhoni quit the Indian Premier League (IPL). But he turned it around by taking Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a win and transitioning to the role of a mentor for the national team,” Aviral Jain, MD, Duff & Phelps (A Kroll Business) told TOI. He further added, "Dhoni has become a timeless brand similar to Sachin Tendulkar." “Brand value is directly proportional to eyeballs, focus and the chemistry the brand is able to create among its users and fans. More so in the case of a persona brand from the world of cricket,” said Harish Bijoor who is the founder of Harish Bijoor Consults. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni and AB de Villiers were the most challenging to bowl to, says Sandeep Sharma “Kohli’s brand valuation is down. It is bound to be. He no longer sports the India captain’s cap. He no longer bears the RCB mantle, as well. New names occupy these positions today. As each of them deepen their brand valuation, Kohli will weaken his. It’s all part of the game. Part of the game is called branding!,” Bijoor pointed out. At present, both Dhoni and Kohli are involved in the IPL 2022 edition. Dhoni has stepped down as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain whereas Kohli-starrer RCB is being led by Faf du Plessis.

Kohli No. 1 in top celebrity endorser list despite brand valuation dip, Dhoni's climbs to $61 million: Report

KL Rahul has become an all-format player for Team India in current times. While Rahul dons the role of an opener in Tests and T20Is, the right-hander plays in the middle-order for India in the 50-over format. However, he wasn't a regular starter in all forms of the game a few years back.&nbsp;

In the 2019 ODI World Cup, Rahul was part of India's middle-order before Shikhar Dhawan's injury promoted him as an opener along with Rohit Sharma. Rahul returned with 361 runs in his maiden 50-over World Cup, with a century and two fifties. Despite his good run with the willow in the showpiece event, Rahul was part of India's T20I, ODI and Test squads for the following&nbsp;West Indies tour, however, he was dropped from the playing XI in the white-ball series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-looked-at-anushka-sharma-in-shock-virat-kohli-recalls-ab-de-villiers-shocking-ipl-retirement-466667">'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement</a>

Rahul recently spilled the beans on his sudden omission from India's playing XI. In a chat with Gaurav Kapoor in the new season of Breakfast with Champions, Rahul said, "I remember in 2019, I think we played the World Cup and right after it, we went to the West Indies for a series. I played the World Cup, I did decently well and then we went into the series and I got dropped. I was messaging him, he said 'Come by the pool. I'm having a drink'. It was his 300th game the next day so he was very happy and he had some friends over. So I went. I was by the pool. He came, sat with me, spoke to me that why are you not playing."

Rahul then revealed how Universe Boss Chris Gayle came to his aid and lifted his spirits. "You know, I obviously was frustrated because I played the World Cup and I'm not playing this. Makes no sense. So, I was just talking to him and he's like 'See you can always say that you're not playing because of 100 other reasons but it's in your hands whether you play or not. If 70 is not enough, get 150. If you are getting 150, get 200 if that's not enough. That's how you need to look at things. If a 600-run IPL season is not enough, then get 800. Or like you're getting 50s, 60s in the World Cup, you should have converted that and gotten 100-120s. Then no one has the power to drop you'," he further added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-kl-rahul-dismissed-for-golden-duck-on-debut-for-lucknow-super-giants-466467">IPL 2022: KL Rahul dismissed for golden duck on debut for Lucknow Super Giants</a>
Rahul is currently involved in the ongoing IPL 2022 edition, where he is leading one of the two debutant teams, i.e. the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Rahul-led LSG lost their season-opener to Gujarat Titans (GT) by 5 wickets at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday (March 28).</section>

KL Rahul has become an all-format player for Team India in current times. While Rahul dons the role of an opener in Tests and T20Is, the right-hander plays in the middle-order for India in the 50-over format.

KL Rahul has become an all-format player for Team India in current times. While Rahul dons the role of an opener in Tests and T20Is, the right-hander plays in the middle-order for India in the 50-over format. However, he wasn't a regular starter in all forms of the game a few years back. In the 2019 ODI World Cup, Rahul was part of India's middle-order before Shikhar Dhawan's injury promoted him as an opener along with Rohit Sharma. Rahul returned with 361 runs in his maiden 50-over World Cup, with a century and two fifties. Despite his good run with the willow in the showpiece event, Rahul was part of India's T20I, ODI and Test squads for the following West Indies tour, however, he was dropped from the playing XI in the white-ball series. ALSO READ | 'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement Rahul recently spilled the beans on his sudden omission from India's playing XI. In a chat with Gaurav Kapoor in the new season of Breakfast with Champions, Rahul said, "I remember in 2019, I think we played the World Cup and right after it, we went to the West Indies for a series. I played the World Cup, I did decently well and then we went into the series and I got dropped. I was messaging him, he said 'Come by the pool. I'm having a drink'. It was his 300th game the next day so he was very happy and he had some friends over. So I went. I was by the pool. He came, sat with me, spoke to me that why are you not playing." Rahul then revealed how Universe Boss Chris Gayle came to his aid and lifted his spirits. "You know, I obviously was frustrated because I played the World Cup and I'm not playing this. Makes no sense. So, I was just talking to him and he's like 'See you can always say that you're not playing because of 100 other reasons but it's in your hands whether you play or not. If 70 is not enough, get 150. If you are getting 150, get 200 if that's not enough. That's how you need to look at things. If a 600-run IPL season is not enough, then get 800. Or like you're getting 50s, 60s in the World Cup, you should have converted that and gotten 100-120s. Then no one has the power to drop you'," he further added. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: KL Rahul dismissed for golden duck on debut for Lucknow Super Giants Rahul is currently involved in the ongoing IPL 2022 edition, where he is leading one of the two debutant teams, i.e. the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Rahul-led LSG lost their season-opener to Gujarat Titans (GT) by 5 wickets at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday (March 28).

KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26. Ahead of the new season, the ardent fans are excited to see how the two new teams shape up and compete with the rest. While KL Rahul will lead the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the Gujarat Titans (GT) will be led by local boy Hardik Pandya.

Ahead of the 15th season, all eyes are on Hardik as it remains to be seen if he will return back as an all-rounder. Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Hardik hasn't been in the scheme of things for Team India, mainly due to the all-rounder working on his fitness to return back to bowling in full flow. In the last two IPL seasons, Hardik didn't bowl a single over for the Mumbai Indians (MI). However, ex-Team India head coach Ravi Shastri feels the 28-year-old needs to bowl to be able to return back in the playing XI for India in white-ball formats.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-hands-over-csk-captaincy-to-ravindra-jadeja-ahead-of-ipl-2022-465123">MS Dhoni hands over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022</a>

"In the top five, there's a lot of muscle there. If anyone's occupying the position Nos. 5, 6 onwards, he'll have to bring that extra department to the game. That is why from Hardik's point of view, from India's point of view, from the Gujarat team's point of view, it's extremely important that he strings those two or three overs together because if he does and bowls with even limited success, he becomes an automatic choice in the Indian team," said Shastri to&nbsp;Espncricinfo.

"I think the all-rounder's position at No. 6 for sure. Ideally, someone in the top-five who can bowl two or three overs. That takes the pressure off the captain. It gives him then six and a half bowlers from whom he can choose. That will be one area I'll be looking at very closely. And of course the fast bowling and fielding. I'm not really worried about the batting. Batting is there," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-a-look-at-the-veterans-captaincy-record-for-chennai-super-kings-465141">MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings</a>

The GT franchise will open their campaign versus LSG on March 28 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. So far, Hardik has kept mum on his bowling plans and has said that it will be a 'surprise' for fans. Let's see what he has in store for one and all in this IPL edition.

Complete squad of Gujarat Titans for IPL 2022:

Jason Roy,&nbsp;Abhinav Sadarangani, David Miller, Wriddhiman Saha, Matthew Wade, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Yash Dayal,&nbsp;Alzarri Joseph, Pradeep Sangwan, Varun Aaron, Rahul Tewatia, Dominic Drakes, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Darshan Nalkande, Gurkeerat Singh Mann,&nbsp;Sai Sudarshan

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

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

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

The race for the semi-finals have intensified with each passing day in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup in New Zealand. While Meg Lenning-led Australia were the first team to book a slot in the semis, they have been joined by South Africa as the Proteas Women made it to the top four following their washout encounter versus West Indies on Thursday (March 24).

Talking about the West Indies-South Africa clash, only 10.5 overs of play was possible before rain played spoilsport to allow the South Africans to go through. West Indies also moved up to occupy the third spot in the points table and remain alive in the semi-finals race, however, they&nbsp;will need either India or England to lose a game to qualify. Before talking about Mithali Raj-led India's chances for the semi-finals, here's a look at the points table:

<img alt="CWC'22 Points Table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61873224-f1e6-424d-912b-fada43be29c2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/CWC%20PT.PNG" />

With Australia and South Africa already through to the semis, the remaining two spots have three contenders in the form of West Indies, England and India. Pakistan is&nbsp;out of the tournament whereas Bangladesh&nbsp;have an almost impossible task even if they win both games (against Australia and England, respectively) as their NRR is very poor. Hosts New Zealand need a humongous win and, hence, are almost out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2022-yastika-bhatias-anchoring-innings-was-important-says-mithali-raj-as-india-beat-bangladesh-464598">CWC 2022: Yastika Bhatia's 'anchoring innings' was important, says Mithali Raj as India beat Bangladesh</a>

Defending champions England need to win their remaining game to get to 8 points and hope India lose to South Africa. Finally coming to the two-time runners-up Women in Blue, the result in the West Indies-South Africa game is&nbsp;a huge blow to India's chances. They not only need a win in their last league stage encounter -- versus South Africa -- but&nbsp;even with a victory, India might lose out on a semi-final slot as England have a better NRR after a thumping&nbsp;win versus Pakistan.&nbsp;A defeat against the Proteas and England's win will knockout Mithali &amp; Co.

The race for the semi-finals have intensified with each passing day in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup in New Zealand. While Meg Lenning-led Australia were the first team to book a slot in the semis, they have been joined by South Africa as the Proteas Women made it to the top four following their washout encounter versus West Indies on Thursday (March 24).

The race for the semi-finals have intensified with each passing day in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup in New Zealand. While Meg Lenning-led Australia were the first team to book a slot in the semis, they have been joined by South Africa as the Proteas Women made it to the top four following their washout encounter versus West Indies on Thursday (March 24). Talking about the West Indies-South Africa clash, only 10.5 overs of play was possible before rain played spoilsport to allow the South Africans to go through. West Indies also moved up to occupy the third spot in the points table and remain alive in the semi-finals race, however, they will need either India or England to lose a game to qualify. Before talking about Mithali Raj-led India's chances for the semi-finals, here's a look at the points table: With Australia and South Africa already through to the semis, the remaining two spots have three contenders in the form of West Indies, England and India. Pakistan is out of the tournament whereas Bangladesh have an almost impossible task even if they win both games (against Australia and England, respectively) as their NRR is very poor. Hosts New Zealand need a humongous win and, hence, are almost out. ALSO READ | CWC 2022: Yastika Bhatia's 'anchoring innings' was important, says Mithali Raj as India beat Bangladesh Defending champions England need to win their remaining game to get to 8 points and hope India lose to South Africa. Finally coming to the two-time runners-up Women in Blue, the result in the West Indies-South Africa game is a huge blow to India's chances. They not only need a win in their last league stage encounter -- versus South Africa -- but even with a victory, India might lose out on a semi-final slot as England have a better NRR after a thumping win versus Pakistan. A defeat against the Proteas and England's win will knockout Mithali & Co.

EXPLAINED! How things have complicated for India in CWC 2022 semi-finals race after SA-WI washout

Mithali Raj-led India returned back to winning ways in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup, in New Zealand, with an NRR-boosting win over minnows Bangladesh on Tuesday (March 22). After back-to-back defeats versus England and Australia, respectively, India faced the Bangla Tigers and finished the game with a massive 110-run win at&nbsp;Seddon Park, Hamilton.

Talking about the encounter, India opted to bat first and rode on a good start by openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. After the end of the 74-run opening stand, the innings progressed ahead with Yastika Bhatia's 50 and vital knocks from the likes of Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh as India posted 229/7 on a tricky surface.

Despite Ritu Moni's three scalps and skipper Mithali's golden duck, India had a good total to defend versus the inexperienced line-up. Sneh's four-fer and contributions from other bowlers helped India maintain the pressure as the Bangladeshi line-up folded for a paltry 119 in 40.3 overs to concede an easy win for the Indian team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-wc-2022-rana-bhatia-shine-as-india-thrash-bangladesh-by-110-runs-to-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-464498">Women's WC 2022: Rana, Bhatia shine as India thrash Bangladesh by 110 runs to keep semi-final hopes alive</a>

How can India make it to the semi-finals?

Post the big win over Bangladesh, India have bolstered their chances of making it to the top-four. They have been helped with some recent results, with South Africa losing to Australia and West Indies going down to Pakistan, and now need to only ensure a win in their last league stage match to progress ahead. For the unversed, India can also make it to the semis despite a loss versus South Africa, on March 26 (Saturday), on NRR but will have to fight it out versus other contenders, such as&nbsp;West Indies (one game remaining) and England (with two matches left).

At present, both West Indies and defending champions England are in contention with 6 and 4 points, respectively. Thus, India will have an eye on the two teams' respective remaining games as well.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-pakistan-outclass-west-indies-by-8-wickets-in-rain-curtailed-game-to-register-first-win-464287">Women's World Cup: Pakistan outclass West Indies by 8 wickets in rain-curtailed game to register first win</a>

After the Bangladesh win, captain Mithali said at&nbsp;the post-match presentation, "It was important to get partnerships as it wasn't a surface where a new batter could get going instantly. We did well to get to 230 after losing those early wickets. Having all-rounders definitely gives the cushion of batting deep and it's good in a tournament like this. You want bowling options and also someone down the order to contribute with the bat. Selectors have also been on the same page in bringing more all-rounders. For a long time, we've always banked on our spinners and we have quality spinners. Today's surface did help them a lot too. Wouldn't say we are spin-dominant, it also depends on the opposition we're playing. We haven't played a game in Christchurch yet, so that's a challenge. It's an important game for India and we would want to do well in all departments."

Mithali Raj-led India returned back to winning ways in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup, in New Zealand, with an NRR-boosting win over minnows Bangladesh on Tuesday (March 22).

Mithali Raj-led India returned back to winning ways in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup, in New Zealand, with an NRR-boosting win over minnows Bangladesh on Tuesday (March 22). After back-to-back defeats versus England and Australia, respectively, India faced the Bangla Tigers and finished the game with a massive 110-run win at Seddon Park, Hamilton. Talking about the encounter, India opted to bat first and rode on a good start by openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. After the end of the 74-run opening stand, the innings progressed ahead with Yastika Bhatia's 50 and vital knocks from the likes of Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh as India posted 229/7 on a tricky surface. Despite Ritu Moni's three scalps and skipper Mithali's golden duck, India had a good total to defend versus the inexperienced line-up. Sneh's four-fer and contributions from other bowlers helped India maintain the pressure as the Bangladeshi line-up folded for a paltry 119 in 40.3 overs to concede an easy win for the Indian team. ALSO READ | Women's WC 2022: Rana, Bhatia shine as India thrash Bangladesh by 110 runs to keep semi-final hopes alive How can India make it to the semi-finals? Post the big win over Bangladesh, India have bolstered their chances of making it to the top-four. They have been helped with some recent results, with South Africa losing to Australia and West Indies going down to Pakistan, and now need to only ensure a win in their last league stage match to progress ahead. For the unversed, India can also make it to the semis despite a loss versus South Africa, on March 26 (Saturday), on NRR but will have to fight it out versus other contenders, such as West Indies (one game remaining) and England (with two matches left). At present, both West Indies and defending champions England are in contention with 6 and 4 points, respectively. Thus, India will have an eye on the two teams' respective remaining games as well. ALSO READ | Women's World Cup: Pakistan outclass West Indies by 8 wickets in rain-curtailed game to register first win After the Bangladesh win, captain Mithali said at the post-match presentation, "It was important to get partnerships as it wasn't a surface where a new batter could get going instantly. We did well to get to 230 after losing those early wickets. Having all-rounders definitely gives the cushion of batting deep and it's good in a tournament like this. You want bowling options and also someone down the order to contribute with the bat. Selectors have also been on the same page in bringing more all-rounders. For a long time, we've always banked on our spinners and we have quality spinners. Today's surface did help them a lot too. Wouldn't say we are spin-dominant, it also depends on the opposition we're playing. We haven't played a game in Christchurch yet, so that's a challenge. It's an important game for India and we would want to do well in all departments."

EXPLAINED! Here's how India can qualify for CWC 2022 semi-finals after big win vs Bangladesh

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

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

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

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

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. Ever since his international retirement, his ardent fans eagerly wait for the 40-year-old's presence on the 22-yard cricket strip during the IPL. Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India, Dhoni opened up on his fascination for jersey number 7 and revealed why he sports the same&nbsp;number&nbsp;since his early days in international cricket.

For the unversed, Dhoni sports the No. 7 jersey since he made his debut for Team India. Even in the IPL, the superstar cricketer has donned the same&nbsp;number -- for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS). Thus, the wicketkeeper-batter revealed why he likes to retain&nbsp;the exact&nbsp;jersey number.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/success-is-theirs-failure-is-mine-captain-hardik-pandya-shares-his-philosophy-ahead-of-ipl-2022-463170">Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022</a>

Speaking at a CSK&nbsp;event on Wednesday (March 16), the ex-Team India captain Dhoni revealed the "simple reason" behind choosing the specific shirt number.

"A lot of people initially thought that 7 is a lucky number for me and all of that. But I chose the number for a very simple reason. I was born on the 7th of July. So it's the 7th day of the 7th month, that was the reason. Rather than getting to all the different things as to what number is a good number and all, I thought I will use my date of birth as the number," Dhoni said.

"A lot of people said 7 is a neutral number and even if it doesn't work for you, it doesn't really go against you. That also I added to my answer. I am not very superstitious about it, but it's one number that is close to my heart and I have kept it over the years with me," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/morris-one-ball-was-more-expensive-than-aakash-chopra-responds-to-ramiz-rajas-claims-on-ipl-vs-psl-463158">'Morris' one ball was more expensive than....': Aakash Chopra responds to Ramiz Raja's remark on IPL vs PSL</a>

After leading CSK to their fourth title in the IPL 2021 edition, the defending champions Dhoni-led Chennai side will play the IPL 2022 season-opener versus last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Yellow Army have revamped and brought back several of their regular members for the forthcoming season and, thus, will aim to retain their title in the 15th edition of the cash-rich league.

Complete squad of CSK for IPL 2022

Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c &amp; wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Devon Conway, Subhranshu Senapati, Hari Nishaanth, N Jagadeesan, Deepak Chahar, KM Asif, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana, Simarjeet Singh, Adam Milne, Mukesh Choudhary, Dwayne Bravo, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Prashant Solanki

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. Ever since his international retirement, his ardent fans eagerly wait for the 40-year-old's presence on the 22-yard cricket strip during the IPL.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. Ever since his international retirement, his ardent fans eagerly wait for the 40-year-old's presence on the 22-yard cricket strip during the IPL. Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India, Dhoni opened up on his fascination for jersey number 7 and revealed why he sports the same number since his early days in international cricket. For the unversed, Dhoni sports the No. 7 jersey since he made his debut for Team India. Even in the IPL, the superstar cricketer has donned the same number -- for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS). Thus, the wicketkeeper-batter revealed why he likes to retain the exact jersey number. ALSO READ | Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022 Speaking at a CSK event on Wednesday (March 16), the ex-Team India captain Dhoni revealed the "simple reason" behind choosing the specific shirt number. "A lot of people initially thought that 7 is a lucky number for me and all of that. But I chose the number for a very simple reason. I was born on the 7th of July. So it's the 7th day of the 7th month, that was the reason. Rather than getting to all the different things as to what number is a good number and all, I thought I will use my date of birth as the number," Dhoni said. "A lot of people said 7 is a neutral number and even if it doesn't work for you, it doesn't really go against you. That also I added to my answer. I am not very superstitious about it, but it's one number that is close to my heart and I have kept it over the years with me," he added. ALSO READ | 'Morris' one ball was more expensive than....': Aakash Chopra responds to Ramiz Raja's remark on IPL vs PSL After leading CSK to their fourth title in the IPL 2021 edition, the defending champions Dhoni-led Chennai side will play the IPL 2022 season-opener versus last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Yellow Army have revamped and brought back several of their regular members for the forthcoming season and, thus, will aim to retain their title in the 15th edition of the cash-rich league. Complete squad of CSK for IPL 2022 Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Devon Conway, Subhranshu Senapati, Hari Nishaanth, N Jagadeesan, Deepak Chahar, KM Asif, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana, Simarjeet Singh, Adam Milne, Mukesh Choudhary, Dwayne Bravo, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Prashant Solanki

Why does MS Dhoni don No. 7 jersey? CSK veteran answers the big question ahead of IPL 2022

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall. Among Indians, he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) and became the second-highest, only after former captain and coach Anil Kumble.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Kumble's tally is 619. He, thus, has a sizeable lead over Ashwin but Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels the off-spinner has it in him to break Kumble's tally. In a recent interaction, the former Indian opener explained why he feels Ashwin can do the unthinkable and go past Kumble's magical number.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-jasprit-bumrah-breaks-into-top-five-virat-kohli-drops-to-ninth-spot-462883">ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot</a>

"It's still a fair distance to go, we are talking about another 160 wickets. But he is capable of doing that because he just keeps getting better. He doesn't rest on his laurels," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

Gavaskar further also highlighted how speedster Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin are exactly the same. "Jasprit Bumrah, who got into Test cricket after Ashwin, is exactly like Ashwin in the sense that he is always looking to add to his repertoire. That is what Ashwin does. At a time a year and year-and-half-ago, Ashwin was tyring leg-spin because you can as variety ball bowl that, especially if you have got 500 runs in the bank," he pointed out said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-him-to-come-back-to-academy-virat-kohlis-childhood-coach-urges-indias-batting-star-to-work-on-basics-462795">Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics</a>

The 28-year-old Bumrah ended the India-Sri Lanka Tests with ten wickets, including his maiden five-fer. On the other hand, Ashwin remained among wickets and continued to better his stellar record in whites at home. After Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s 2-0 whitewash over the Islanders, the Indian players have now joined their respective IPL franchises ahead of the upcoming 15th edition.

IPL 2022 gets underway on March 26.

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall.

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall. Among Indians, he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) and became the second-highest, only after former captain and coach Anil Kumble. For the unversed, Kumble's tally is 619. He, thus, has a sizeable lead over Ashwin but Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels the off-spinner has it in him to break Kumble's tally. In a recent interaction, the former Indian opener explained why he feels Ashwin can do the unthinkable and go past Kumble's magical number. ALSO READ | ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot "It's still a fair distance to go, we are talking about another 160 wickets. But he is capable of doing that because he just keeps getting better. He doesn't rest on his laurels," Gavaskar told Star Sports. Gavaskar further also highlighted how speedster Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin are exactly the same. "Jasprit Bumrah, who got into Test cricket after Ashwin, is exactly like Ashwin in the sense that he is always looking to add to his repertoire. That is what Ashwin does. At a time a year and year-and-half-ago, Ashwin was tyring leg-spin because you can as variety ball bowl that, especially if you have got 500 runs in the bank," he pointed out said. ALSO READ | Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics The 28-year-old Bumrah ended the India-Sri Lanka Tests with ten wickets, including his maiden five-fer. On the other hand, Ashwin remained among wickets and continued to better his stellar record in whites at home. After Rohit Sharma & Co.'s 2-0 whitewash over the Islanders, the Indian players have now joined their respective IPL franchises ahead of the upcoming 15th edition. IPL 2022 gets underway on March 26.

Will R Ashwin go past Anil Kumble's Test wicket-tally? Sunil Gavaskar answers the big question

Mithali Raj-led India have had a topsy-turvy ride so far in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their tournament-opener before falling flat against hosts New Zealand. India bounced back in style versus the daunting&nbsp;West Indies line-up before losing to England in their fourth outing in the showpiece event in New Zealand.

On Wednesday (March 16), India faced defending champions England at Bay Oval, Mount&nbsp;Maunganui. Opting to bowl first, England rode on&nbsp;Charlotte Dean's 4 for 23 as the big guns such as Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mithali, Deepti Sharma and the likes fell flat as India were dismissed for 134 in 36.2 overs. In reply, England finished the run-chase with four wickets in hand in 31.2 overs.&nbsp;Natalie Sciver's 45 and skipper Heather Knight's 53 led the charge of England as they finally opened their account after three successive defeats.

After the defeat, India find themselves in a tight spot to enter the semi-finals of the CWC 2022 edition. With three big games left, Mithali &amp; Co. will need to revamp at the earliest to finish at the top four. Here's how they can make it to the semi-finals despite the England drubbing:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwc-2022-jhulan-goswami-becomes-first-woman-to-enter-250-wicket-club-joins-elite-indian-mens-bowlers-462759">WWC 2022: Jhulan Goswami becomes first woman to enter 250-wicket club, joins elite Indian men's bowlers</a>

For the unversed, a&nbsp;total of 4 wins are deemed enough to qualify for the knockouts. Thus, India need two more wins -- from three games -- to enter the semis. With India to play Australia, Bangladesh and South Africa, respectively, they are still very much in chance to enter the next round even if they lose to the invincibles and so far unbeaten team Australia. As long as the Women in Blue do not lose by a huge margin versus the Aussies, wins against the other two opponents should&nbsp;be just enough&nbsp;to enter the semi-finals. Nonetheless, the face-offs versus the Bangla Tigers and South Africa won't be a cakewalk by any means whatsoever.

Talking about Bangladesh and South Africa, the former has only one win -- having beaten Pakistan -- whereas the Proteas are&nbsp;unbeaten, so far,&nbsp;after three outings. Thus, India have their task cut out to win at least two and not lose any game by a big margin.

Above all, they need to address their inconsistency and pull up their socks to progress ahead and become serious contenders.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-wc-charlotte-dean-heather-knight-shine-as-england-beat-india-by-4-wickets-to-register-first-win-462785">Women's WC: Charlotte Dean, Heather Knight shine as England beat India by 4 wickets to register first win</a>

After the England loss, Mithali said at&nbsp;the post-match presentation, "We definitely didn't have partnerships and it didn't go our way despite getting what we wanted after losing the toss. When you lose you always think you are short on runs. Getting 200 could have had the match go either way. Every game we've done well as a fielding unit. It is a department where we have improved. We need to work very hard with our batting. It is an honour to play alongside Jhulan Goswami. It is difficult for any fast bowler to play at this level consistently."

Remaining fixtures for Women in Blue in CWC 2022:

India vs Australia, March 19

India vs Bangladesh, March 22

India vs South Africa, March 26

Mithali Raj-led India have had a topsy-turvy ride so far in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their tournament-opener before falling flat against hosts New Zealand.

Mithali Raj-led India have had a topsy-turvy ride so far in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their tournament-opener before falling flat against hosts New Zealand. India bounced back in style versus the daunting West Indies line-up before losing to England in their fourth outing in the showpiece event in New Zealand. On Wednesday (March 16), India faced defending champions England at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. Opting to bowl first, England rode on Charlotte Dean's 4 for 23 as the big guns such as Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mithali, Deepti Sharma and the likes fell flat as India were dismissed for 134 in 36.2 overs. In reply, England finished the run-chase with four wickets in hand in 31.2 overs. Natalie Sciver's 45 and skipper Heather Knight's 53 led the charge of England as they finally opened their account after three successive defeats. After the defeat, India find themselves in a tight spot to enter the semi-finals of the CWC 2022 edition. With three big games left, Mithali & Co. will need to revamp at the earliest to finish at the top four. Here's how they can make it to the semi-finals despite the England drubbing: ALSO READ | WWC 2022: Jhulan Goswami becomes first woman to enter 250-wicket club, joins elite Indian men's bowlers For the unversed, a total of 4 wins are deemed enough to qualify for the knockouts. Thus, India need two more wins -- from three games -- to enter the semis. With India to play Australia, Bangladesh and South Africa, respectively, they are still very much in chance to enter the next round even if they lose to the invincibles and so far unbeaten team Australia. As long as the Women in Blue do not lose by a huge margin versus the Aussies, wins against the other two opponents should be just enough to enter the semi-finals. Nonetheless, the face-offs versus the Bangla Tigers and South Africa won't be a cakewalk by any means whatsoever. Talking about Bangladesh and South Africa, the former has only one win -- having beaten Pakistan -- whereas the Proteas are unbeaten, so far, after three outings. Thus, India have their task cut out to win at least two and not lose any game by a big margin. Above all, they need to address their inconsistency and pull up their socks to progress ahead and become serious contenders. ALSO READ | Women's WC: Charlotte Dean, Heather Knight shine as England beat India by 4 wickets to register first win After the England loss, Mithali said at the post-match presentation, "We definitely didn't have partnerships and it didn't go our way despite getting what we wanted after losing the toss. When you lose you always think you are short on runs. Getting 200 could have had the match go either way. Every game we've done well as a fielding unit. It is a department where we have improved. We need to work very hard with our batting. It is an honour to play alongside Jhulan Goswami. It is difficult for any fast bowler to play at this level consistently." Remaining fixtures for Women in Blue in CWC 2022: India vs Australia, March 19 India vs Bangladesh, March 22 India vs South Africa, March 26

EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.&nbsp;

Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-indias-2-0-clean-sweep-over-sri-lanka-462550">Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka</a>

"Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said&nbsp;Rajumkar&nbsp;to the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast.

"He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-238-runs-to-register-2-0-clean-sweep-record-15th-striaght-test-series-win-at-home-462203">India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home</a>

At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India.

With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.&nbsp;
</section>

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level. Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka "Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said Rajumkar to the Khelneeti podcast. "He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar. ALSO READ | India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India. With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.

Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. Despite his retirement from the highest level, on August 15 2020, the 40-year-old remains an extremely popular for his overall contribution to Indian cricket. Dhoni signed off from international cricket, with 17,266 runs, 108 fifties, 16 centuries, 634 catches, 195 stumpings, 359 sixes and also leading India to all major ICC titles.

Dhoni became a household name soon after he broke into the scene at the highest level in 2004. In his early years, he was a fearless striker of the ball who also played some audacious and unorthodox shots from time to time. During the 2006 Champions Trophy, Dhoni made a vital 23-ball 28 in Rahul Dravid &amp; Co.'s face-off versus Ricky Ponting's Australia, in Mohali, but made heads turn with a stunning reverse sweep off Nathan Bracken in India's final over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-cricketing-superstars-with-most-instagram-followers-460635">From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers</a>

With wickets tumbling and&nbsp;India&nbsp;aiming for over a 260-run score, Dhoni was on strike in the final over and&nbsp;targetted some big shots. While he fell on the last ball of the Indian innings, with the score 249-8, he played a eye-catching reverse sweep (or pulled off an AB de Villiers). Here's the video:

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ABD who? Hold Dhoni's Beer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketTwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketTwitter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qbz7Cy6nOK">pic.twitter.com/Qbz7Cy6nOK</a>
— SHIVAM (@SMUDGE4549) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMUDGE4549/status/1501974503248711691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While it can be termed as an AB de Villiers-esque stroke in the current era, back then the South African had just announced his arrival in international circuit. He hadn't even scored an ODI century when Dhoni pulled off a miraculous stroke against Bracken.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-be-special-maybe-i-would-have-never-played-for-india-if-i-was-an-indian-ab-de-villiers-451562">You have to be special, maybe I would have never played for India if I was an Indian: AB de Villiers</a>

Talking about the India-Aus face-off, Dravid-led side's 249/8 was not much of a challenge for the Aussies as the Men in Yellow chased down the score with six wickets and 26 balls to spare. Australia later faced West Indies in the summit clash and won the title without dropping much sweat in the finale (by 8 wickets).

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. Despite his retirement from the highest level, on August 15 2020, the 40-year-old remains an extremely popular for his overall contribution to Indian cricket.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. Despite his retirement from the highest level, on August 15 2020, the 40-year-old remains an extremely popular for his overall contribution to Indian cricket. Dhoni signed off from international cricket, with 17,266 runs, 108 fifties, 16 centuries, 634 catches, 195 stumpings, 359 sixes and also leading India to all major ICC titles. Dhoni became a household name soon after he broke into the scene at the highest level in 2004. In his early years, he was a fearless striker of the ball who also played some audacious and unorthodox shots from time to time. During the 2006 Champions Trophy, Dhoni made a vital 23-ball 28 in Rahul Dravid & Co.'s face-off versus Ricky Ponting's Australia, in Mohali, but made heads turn with a stunning reverse sweep off Nathan Bracken in India's final over. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers With wickets tumbling and India aiming for over a 260-run score, Dhoni was on strike in the final over and targetted some big shots. While he fell on the last ball of the Indian innings, with the score 249-8, he played a eye-catching reverse sweep (or pulled off an AB de Villiers). Here's the video: ABD who? Hold Dhoni's Beer #CricketTwitter #IPL2022 pic.twitter.com/Qbz7Cy6nOK — SHIVAM (@SMUDGE4549) March 10, 2022 × While it can be termed as an AB de Villiers-esque stroke in the current era, back then the South African had just announced his arrival in international circuit. He hadn't even scored an ODI century when Dhoni pulled off a miraculous stroke against Bracken. ALSO READ | You have to be special, maybe I would have never played for India if I was an Indian: AB de Villiers Talking about the India-Aus face-off, Dravid-led side's 249/8 was not much of a challenge for the Aussies as the Men in Yellow chased down the score with six wickets and 26 balls to spare. Australia later faced West Indies in the summit clash and won the title without dropping much sweat in the finale (by 8 wickets).

WATCH: When Dhoni pulled off an AB de Villiers-esque reverse sweep during India's 2006 CT tie vs AUS

When India's Test squad was announced for the ongoing home series versus Sri Lanka, a lot of changes came into place with many senior players being shown the door. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha were dropped as the BCCI selectors stressed on focusing on younger breed of players for grooming them in the purest format.

Despite being dropped, the doors have not been shut for Pujara and Rahane as per chief selector Chetan Sharma's statement. However, the duo have been demoted to Grade B, from Grade A, category in BCCI's central contracts list. On the other hand, Ishant and Saha are out-of-favour and it seems the two won't be in the scheme of things for Team India going forward. While Saha has been told that Rishabh Pant and KS Bharat will be preferred for the keeper's slot in whites, Ishant's future also looks gloomy.

Even though Ishant-Saha are out of contention, at least for now, they feature in BCCI contracts list. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra explained why the pair have a central contract.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

"Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha's names are also there in BCCI's central contracts. In fact, Ishant Sharma is at 3 crores. Are you wondering why? Why was Saha given a central contract when you have told him that you are not going to select him at all?" said the cricketer-turned-commentator on his&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;channel.

"It seems Ishant Sharma also has an extremely limited role left in Test cricket, so why is he in the 3-crores contract and not 1 crore? These are things that you wonder?&nbsp; These are the contracts from October 2021 to the upcoming September. That is why Saha has the right. He was India's player in this contract period. He scored runs for India in December, that is why his name is there in this list, same goes for Ishant Sharma, he was playing regularly," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-cricketing-superstars-with-most-instagram-followers-460635">From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers</a>

Chopra further added, "This could possibly be the last contract for Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. Will you see them playing after October - I am not 100% certain. They have already told Saha and it looks 50-50 for Ishant Sharma as well. I love him to bits but it seems the time has come for his exit."

For the unversed, BCCI's&nbsp;has four categories -- A+ which has annual remuneration of INR 7 crore (INR 70 million) while A, B and C categories are valued at INR 5 crore (INR 50 million), INR 3 crore (30 million) and INR 1 crore (10 crore) respectively. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah remain the highest earners whereas the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Md Siraj and Axar Patel have been promoted. In addition, Suryakumar Yadav is the only new entrant in the central contracts.

When India's Test squad was announced for the ongoing home series versus Sri Lanka, a lot of changes came into place with many senior players being shown the door.

When India's Test squad was announced for the ongoing home series versus Sri Lanka, a lot of changes came into place with many senior players being shown the door. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha were dropped as the BCCI selectors stressed on focusing on younger breed of players for grooming them in the purest format. Despite being dropped, the doors have not been shut for Pujara and Rahane as per chief selector Chetan Sharma's statement. However, the duo have been demoted to Grade B, from Grade A, category in BCCI's central contracts list. On the other hand, Ishant and Saha are out-of-favour and it seems the two won't be in the scheme of things for Team India going forward. While Saha has been told that Rishabh Pant and KS Bharat will be preferred for the keeper's slot in whites, Ishant's future also looks gloomy. Even though Ishant-Saha are out of contention, at least for now, they feature in BCCI contracts list. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra explained why the pair have a central contract. ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 "Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha's names are also there in BCCI's central contracts. In fact, Ishant Sharma is at 3 crores. Are you wondering why? Why was Saha given a central contract when you have told him that you are not going to select him at all?" said the cricketer-turned-commentator on his YouTube channel. "It seems Ishant Sharma also has an extremely limited role left in Test cricket, so why is he in the 3-crores contract and not 1 crore? These are things that you wonder? These are the contracts from October 2021 to the upcoming September. That is why Saha has the right. He was India's player in this contract period. He scored runs for India in December, that is why his name is there in this list, same goes for Ishant Sharma, he was playing regularly," he opined. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers Chopra further added, "This could possibly be the last contract for Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. Will you see them playing after October - I am not 100% certain. They have already told Saha and it looks 50-50 for Ishant Sharma as well. I love him to bits but it seems the time has come for his exit." For the unversed, BCCI's has four categories -- A+ which has annual remuneration of INR 7 crore (INR 70 million) while A, B and C categories are valued at INR 5 crore (INR 50 million), INR 3 crore (30 million) and INR 1 crore (10 crore) respectively. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah remain the highest earners whereas the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Md Siraj and Axar Patel have been promoted. In addition, Suryakumar Yadav is the only new entrant in the central contracts.

Aakash Chopra explains why Saha, Ishant fall in Grade C in BCCI contracts despite being dropped

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619).

With 436 wickets in 85 Tests, the 35-year-old Ashwin has played a huge role in India's dominance in whites, especially at home. Ahead of the second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, which will be a day-night encounter at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the wily offie shared the role of former Indian batter and women's team coach WV Raman in his growth as a cricketer.

In 2006, Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu. Back then, Raman was the coach and the World Cup-winner recently spilled the beans on the former's role in his career in an interview posted by the BCCI.&nbsp;

“When I made my debut, I had walked into the Chepauk stadium and Raman was the coach. (He was) a hard taskmaster and a lot of people feared having conversations with him. So, we were going through this practice session one day and he was giving these fielding sessions. But the amount of pressure he used to inflict on people who were throwing the ball on the top of the stumps was incredible,” Ashwin recalled.

“If you didn't throw the ball at the top of the stumps, he would just have a go at you. This kept happening for 10 days, 12 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and we got a little comfortable. He used to prod me at the net, I used to question him and I didn't really have fear speaking in the team meeting," he further opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvssl-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-test-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-461301">INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details</a>

"One day, he just took me to the side and said, 'Ashwin, you've just come into the side. I appreciate you speaking in the team meetings, but you also need to understand why we say certain things. We say it with the intent to make sure that once you go to the Indian team, you are not found wanting with your basics'. And that really opened the floodgates for me and Raman forever. Because I knew this man had the best intent in place for anybody who walked into the ground inside this team,” added Ashwin.

Ashwin is currently gearing up for India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, starting on Saturday (March 12). The veteran will hope to continue his merry run in whites and lead India to a 2-0 series whitewash over the Asian neighbours.

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619).

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619). With 436 wickets in 85 Tests, the 35-year-old Ashwin has played a huge role in India's dominance in whites, especially at home. Ahead of the second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, which will be a day-night encounter at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the wily offie shared the role of former Indian batter and women's team coach WV Raman in his growth as a cricketer. In 2006, Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu. Back then, Raman was the coach and the World Cup-winner recently spilled the beans on the former's role in his career in an interview posted by the BCCI. “When I made my debut, I had walked into the Chepauk stadium and Raman was the coach. (He was) a hard taskmaster and a lot of people feared having conversations with him. So, we were going through this practice session one day and he was giving these fielding sessions. But the amount of pressure he used to inflict on people who were throwing the ball on the top of the stumps was incredible,” Ashwin recalled. “If you didn't throw the ball at the top of the stumps, he would just have a go at you. This kept happening for 10 days, 12 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and we got a little comfortable. He used to prod me at the net, I used to question him and I didn't really have fear speaking in the team meeting," he further opined. ALSO READ | INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details "One day, he just took me to the side and said, 'Ashwin, you've just come into the side. I appreciate you speaking in the team meetings, but you also need to understand why we say certain things. We say it with the intent to make sure that once you go to the Indian team, you are not found wanting with your basics'. And that really opened the floodgates for me and Raman forever. Because I knew this man had the best intent in place for anybody who walked into the ground inside this team,” added Ashwin. Ashwin is currently gearing up for India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, starting on Saturday (March 12). The veteran will hope to continue his merry run in whites and lead India to a 2-0 series whitewash over the Asian neighbours.

'He was a hard taskmaster, a lot of people feared....' - R Ashwin on ex-India batter's role in his growth

Rohit Sharma-led Team India was clinical in the Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, to register a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. With this, India gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series and will now go for the kill in the final Test, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Ahead of the second and final Test, which will be a pink-ball contest, Rohit Sharma and off-spinner R Ashwin have a few milestones in sight. For the unversed, former skipper Virat Kohli is India's leading run-getter in day-night encounters in whites. Kohli has 241 runs in 3 Tests, including a ton (which remains his last triple-figure knock at the highest level), whereas his predecessor Rohit is at the second spot. Hitman is 129 runs behind (112) and, thus, will hope for a big score to surpass Kohli, unless the latter also manages a daddy hundred.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

Coming to Ashwin, the 35-year-old offie scripted history by surpassing Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) during the Mohali Test. He is now India's second-highest wicket-taker (436) and is on the verge of going past Dale Steyn's tally (439) in the overall list to take the eighth spot. Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708), and Anil Kumble (619) occupy&nbsp;the top-three spots.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/r-ashwin-surpasses-kapil-dev-a-look-at-indias-highest-wicket-takers-in-tests-460007">R Ashwin surpasses Kapil Dev: A look at India's highest wicket-takers in Tests</a>

In addition, Ashwin is eyeing to surpass Kumble's elusive record at home. Among Indians, Kumble has registered most&nbsp;five-fers at home (25)&nbsp;whereas Ashwin has&nbsp;24 fifers and one&nbsp;away from equalling&nbsp;the former spinner.&nbsp;

India will also hope for another flawless performance to keep up with other top contenders in the race for the WTC final spot in the ongoing second cycle.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India was clinical in the Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, to register a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. With this, India gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series and will now go for the kill in the final Test, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India was clinical in the Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, to register a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. With this, India gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series and will now go for the kill in the final Test, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Ahead of the second and final Test, which will be a pink-ball contest, Rohit Sharma and off-spinner R Ashwin have a few milestones in sight. For the unversed, former skipper Virat Kohli is India's leading run-getter in day-night encounters in whites. Kohli has 241 runs in 3 Tests, including a ton (which remains his last triple-figure knock at the highest level), whereas his predecessor Rohit is at the second spot. Hitman is 129 runs behind (112) and, thus, will hope for a big score to surpass Kohli, unless the latter also manages a daddy hundred. ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 Coming to Ashwin, the 35-year-old offie scripted history by surpassing Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) during the Mohali Test. He is now India's second-highest wicket-taker (436) and is on the verge of going past Dale Steyn's tally (439) in the overall list to take the eighth spot. Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708), and Anil Kumble (619) occupy the top-three spots. ALSO READ | R Ashwin surpasses Kapil Dev: A look at India's highest wicket-takers in Tests In addition, Ashwin is eyeing to surpass Kumble's elusive record at home. Among Indians, Kumble has registered most five-fers at home (25) whereas Ashwin has 24 fifers and one away from equalling the former spinner. India will also hope for another flawless performance to keep up with other top contenders in the race for the WTC final spot in the ongoing second cycle.

Ind vs SL, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma eyes Virat Kohli's record, R Ashwin on cusp of achieving big feats

Rohit Sharma-led Team India produced an emphatic and flawless performance in the first Test versus Sri Lanka in Mohali. Right from the word go, everything clicked for Rohit &amp; Co. as they emerged on top courtesy a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs.

Opting to bat first, India posted 574-8 decl. and dismissed the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lankans for a paltry 174 and 178 with R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami chipping in with majority of wickets. While Jadeja returned with 175 not out and a nine-wicket haul in the match, Rishabh Pant also continued to grow in stature in whites with an attacking 96 and three vital dismissals behind the stumps. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Pant ahead of the second and final Test between both sides,&nbsp;at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-join-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-in-elite-list-in-indias-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-460955">Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

“His batting is phenomenal and we can speak a lot about that. But I think the hallmark of this Test personally for him would be how well he kept,” said Karthik on Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

“Pathum Nissanka's catch was brilliant. Whenever an offspinner bowls into the rough a little bit and the ball is turning in, it is a hard one to take because you never know which one is going to straighten and which one will turn. On top of that if it deviates off the bat it becomes that much harder and that is where I like Pant. His hands were at the right place,” he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-surpassing-mark-waugh-gary-sobers-in-elite-list-as-india-take-on-sri-lanka-in-2nd-test-460878">Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test</a>

Pant will like to make the most of his form in the series decider, which will be a pink-ball contest. With Indian players set to shift their focus on the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition and then on the T20 World Cup, the 23-year-old will be desperate for another rollicking performance in the red-ball format.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India produced an emphatic and flawless performance in the first Test versus Sri Lanka in Mohali. Right from the word go, everything clicked for Rohit & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India produced an emphatic and flawless performance in the first Test versus Sri Lanka in Mohali. Right from the word go, everything clicked for Rohit & Co. as they emerged on top courtesy a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. Opting to bat first, India posted 574-8 decl. and dismissed the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lankans for a paltry 174 and 178 with R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami chipping in with majority of wickets. While Jadeja returned with 175 not out and a nine-wicket haul in the match, Rishabh Pant also continued to grow in stature in whites with an attacking 96 and three vital dismissals behind the stumps. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Pant ahead of the second and final Test between both sides, at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka “His batting is phenomenal and we can speak a lot about that. But I think the hallmark of this Test personally for him would be how well he kept,” said Karthik on Cricbuzz. “Pathum Nissanka's catch was brilliant. Whenever an offspinner bowls into the rough a little bit and the ball is turning in, it is a hard one to take because you never know which one is going to straighten and which one will turn. On top of that if it deviates off the bat it becomes that much harder and that is where I like Pant. His hands were at the right place,” he said. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test Pant will like to make the most of his form in the series decider, which will be a pink-ball contest. With Indian players set to shift their focus on the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition and then on the T20 World Cup, the 23-year-old will be desperate for another rollicking performance in the red-ball format.

His batting is phenomenal but how well he kept: Dinesh Karthik heaps praise on ever-improving Rishabh Pant

Rohit Sharma is set to achieve a big milestone when he comes out for the coin toss in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on March 12 (Saturday). Rohit will join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar and five other Indians in an elite list at the start of the series decider against the Islanders.

So far, eight Indians have played 400, or more, internationals. The list is spearheaded by Master Blaster Tendulkar and comprises Dhoni, current head coach Rahul Dravid, Kohli, Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh and the likes. Rohit will, thus, become the 9th Indian to enter the list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-surpassing-mark-waugh-gary-sobers-in-elite-list-as-india-take-on-sri-lanka-in-2nd-test-460878">Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test</a>

Most matches in a career

Sachin Tendulkar - 664 (INDIA) 
MS Dhoni - 538 (ASIA/INDIA) 
Rahul Dravid - 509 (ASIA/INDIA/ICC) 
Virat Kohli - 457* (INDIA) 
Md Azharuddin - 433 (INDIA) 
Sourav Ganguly - 424 (ASIA/INDIA) 
Anil Kumble - 403 (ASIA/INDIA) 
Yuvraj Singh - 402 (ASIA/INDIA) 
Rohit Sharma - 399* (INDIA)

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-dravid-proved-arun-lals-prediction-wrong-by-hitting-a-huge-six-in-indo-pak-test-watch-460257">THROWBACK: When Dravid proved Arun Lal's prediction wrong by hitting a huge six in Indo-Pak Test - WATCH</a>

For the unversed, Rohit has featured in 44 Tests, 230 ODIs and 125 T20Is for Team India. In his 45th Test, the 34-year-old will enter another elusive list in his illustrious career. Making his international debut in 2007, the right-hander's career took an emphatic turn when he was promoted as an opener in the white-ball formats. Since then, he hasn't looked behind and has also been India's best performer across formats in the last few years (also turning things around in style in the red-ball format since late 2019).&nbsp;

Coming back to the India-SL series, Rohit &amp; Co. won the first Test by an innings and 222 runs. They will aim for a clean sweep in the second and final Test, which will be a pink-ball contest in Bengaluru.

Rohit Sharma is set to achieve a big milestone when he comes out for the coin toss in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on March 12 (Saturday).

Rohit Sharma is set to achieve a big milestone when he comes out for the coin toss in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on March 12 (Saturday). Rohit will join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar and five other Indians in an elite list at the start of the series decider against the Islanders. So far, eight Indians have played 400, or more, internationals. The list is spearheaded by Master Blaster Tendulkar and comprises Dhoni, current head coach Rahul Dravid, Kohli, Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh and the likes. Rohit will, thus, become the 9th Indian to enter the list. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test Most matches in a career Sachin Tendulkar - 664 (INDIA) MS Dhoni - 538 (ASIA/INDIA) Rahul Dravid - 509 (ASIA/INDIA/ICC) Virat Kohli - 457* (INDIA) Md Azharuddin - 433 (INDIA) Sourav Ganguly - 424 (ASIA/INDIA) Anil Kumble - 403 (ASIA/INDIA) Yuvraj Singh - 402 (ASIA/INDIA) Rohit Sharma - 399* (INDIA) ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Dravid proved Arun Lal's prediction wrong by hitting a huge six in Indo-Pak Test - WATCH For the unversed, Rohit has featured in 44 Tests, 230 ODIs and 125 T20Is for Team India. In his 45th Test, the 34-year-old will enter another elusive list in his illustrious career. Making his international debut in 2007, the right-hander's career took an emphatic turn when he was promoted as an opener in the white-ball formats. Since then, he hasn't looked behind and has also been India's best performer across formats in the last few years (also turning things around in style in the red-ball format since late 2019). Coming back to the India-SL series, Rohit & Co. won the first Test by an innings and 222 runs. They will aim for a clean sweep in the second and final Test, which will be a pink-ball contest in Bengaluru.

Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

S Sreesanth announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday evening (March 09). The discarded Indian pacer represented the national team in 90 internationals (27 Tests, 53 ODIs and 10 T20Is).&nbsp;

The 39-year-old was part of MS Dhoni-led Indian team's title-wins in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. Sreesanth's best performances came in India's maiden Test win in South Africa (in 2006) and he was also a part of the Rahul Dravid-led side's Test series triumph in England, in mid-2007. Following the IPL 2013 spot-fixing scandal, his career took a massive downfall. He had restarted his career&nbsp;recently&nbsp;after successfully overturning&nbsp;a life ban from the sport for his involvement in the spot-fixing saga. Thus, he made a&nbsp;sensational comeback in the action-packed edition of the&nbsp;Ranji Trophy before&nbsp;calling it quits soon.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/for-next-generation-of-cricketers-india-pacer-s-sreesanth-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-460636">'For next generation of cricketers...'- India pacer S Sreesanth announces retirement from all forms of cricket</a>

“Today is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude. Playing for Ecc, Ernakulam district, varies diff. League and tournament teams, Kerala state cricket association, Bcci, Warwickshire county cricket team, Indian airlines cricket team, Bpcl, and ICC,” Sreesanth said.

"ICC has been a tremendous honor. During my 25 years career as a Cricket player, I've always pursued success and winning cricket games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance. It has been an honor to represent my family. It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game," he further wrote.

"With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats )cricket.&nbsp;For the next generation of cricketers..I have chosen to end my first class cricket career. This decision is mine alone, and although I know this will not bring me happiness, it is the right and honorable action to take at this time in my life. I ve cherished every moment," addeed Sreesanth.

Following his heartfelt post, Sreesanth received a reply from his former teammate and ex-Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. Here's what Bhajji wrote:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Good luck shenta 🤗🤗 <a href="https://t.co/OXKTdh4QxL">https://t.co/OXKTdh4QxL</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1501640038098305024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-or-harbhajan-singh-gautam-gambhir-picks-the-more-difficult-off-spinner-to-face-460293">R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face</a>

Harbhajan-Sreesanth's relationship had hit rock bottom during the inaugural IPL season, when the senior pro had slapped the speedster after a game, but the duo sorted out their differences in the following years.

Sreesanth also represented Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kerala Kochi Tuskers (KKT) and Kerala, in the domestic circuit. He finished his international career with a total of 169 scalps.

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

S Sreesanth announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday evening (March 09). The discarded Indian pacer represented the national team in 90 internationals (27 Tests, 53 ODIs and 10 T20Is). The 39-year-old was part of MS Dhoni-led Indian team's title-wins in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. Sreesanth's best performances came in India's maiden Test win in South Africa (in 2006) and he was also a part of the Rahul Dravid-led side's Test series triumph in England, in mid-2007. Following the IPL 2013 spot-fixing scandal, his career took a massive downfall. He had restarted his career recently after successfully overturning a life ban from the sport for his involvement in the spot-fixing saga. Thus, he made a sensational comeback in the action-packed edition of the Ranji Trophy before calling it quits soon. ALSO READ | 'For next generation of cricketers...'- India pacer S Sreesanth announces retirement from all forms of cricket “Today is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude. Playing for Ecc, Ernakulam district, varies diff. League and tournament teams, Kerala state cricket association, Bcci, Warwickshire county cricket team, Indian airlines cricket team, Bpcl, and ICC,” Sreesanth said. "ICC has been a tremendous honor. During my 25 years career as a Cricket player, I've always pursued success and winning cricket games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance. It has been an honor to represent my family. It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game," he further wrote. "With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats )cricket. For the next generation of cricketers..I have chosen to end my first class cricket career. This decision is mine alone, and although I know this will not bring me happiness, it is the right and honorable action to take at this time in my life. I ve cherished every moment," addeed Sreesanth. Following his heartfelt post, Sreesanth received a reply from his former teammate and ex-Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. Here's what Bhajji wrote: Good luck shenta 🤗🤗 https://t.co/OXKTdh4QxL — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) March 9, 2022 × ALSO READ | R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face Harbhajan-Sreesanth's relationship had hit rock bottom during the inaugural IPL season, when the senior pro had slapped the speedster after a game, but the duo sorted out their differences in the following years. Sreesanth also represented Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kerala Kochi Tuskers (KKT) and Kerala, in the domestic circuit. He finished his international career with a total of 169 scalps.

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

From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers

Rohit Sharma-led Team India had a flawless run in the two-match Test series opener versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in Mohali. Everything clicked for the home side right from the word go. Rohit won the toss in his debut Test as captain as India opted to bat first at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali.

Riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 175 not out and fifties from Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin, India declared at 574-8 and dismissed the Lankans for 174 and 178 to win the opening Test by an innings and 222 runs. Ahead of the second and final Test, India is expected to play the same winning combination. However, there might be a debate for one spot, i.e. the second-opening slot. Mayank Agarwal managed only 33 in the first innings and he might be replaced by Shubman Gill, who has also done well in his limited opportunities in whites.

In this regard, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar named his pick and suggested who should partner Rohit at the top in the series decider.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-ravindra-jadeja-becomes-no1-all-rounder-after-dream-run-in-sl-series-opener-460512">ICC Test Rankings: Ravindra Jadeja becomes No.1 all-rounder after dream run in SL series opener</a>

"He (Gill) hasn't played any form of cricket in the last two months. He did not even play Ranji Trophy so if you have to play for India, you need some or the other type of practice. Of course, he has the talent, there is no doubt about it. But in the end, it is also about form," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak.

"And if you see carefully, Mayank Agarwal always scores big in India's home series. He bats like a boss in India but doesn't score runs overseas. In home series, he has at least one big hundred or a double century. So, he should definitely open. And at No. 3 there is Hanuma Vihari. What has he done wrong? In South Africa, in the one opportunity he got, he steadied the tail and batted defiantly, adding runs in India's second innings. So he should get opportunities," the ex-India opener opined.

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"As for Shreyas Iyer, the kind of form he showed in the white-ball series (against Sri Lanka), and the way he started off his Test career in December against New Zealand, I think this should be our top five," Gavaskar further added.

The second and final Test is a day-night affair, the third pink-ball encounter in India. If India win the Test, they will not only inflict a series whitewash over the Islanders but also continue their winning run, across formats, under Rohit since late 2021.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India had a flawless run in the two-match Test series opener versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in Mohali. Everything clicked for the home side right from the word go.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India had a flawless run in the two-match Test series opener versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in Mohali. Everything clicked for the home side right from the word go. Rohit won the toss in his debut Test as captain as India opted to bat first at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 175 not out and fifties from Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin, India declared at 574-8 and dismissed the Lankans for 174 and 178 to win the opening Test by an innings and 222 runs. Ahead of the second and final Test, India is expected to play the same winning combination. However, there might be a debate for one spot, i.e. the second-opening slot. Mayank Agarwal managed only 33 in the first innings and he might be replaced by Shubman Gill, who has also done well in his limited opportunities in whites. In this regard, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar named his pick and suggested who should partner Rohit at the top in the series decider. ALSO READ | ICC Test Rankings: Ravindra Jadeja becomes No.1 all-rounder after dream run in SL series opener "He (Gill) hasn't played any form of cricket in the last two months. He did not even play Ranji Trophy so if you have to play for India, you need some or the other type of practice. Of course, he has the talent, there is no doubt about it. But in the end, it is also about form," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak. "And if you see carefully, Mayank Agarwal always scores big in India's home series. He bats like a boss in India but doesn't score runs overseas. In home series, he has at least one big hundred or a double century. So, he should definitely open. And at No. 3 there is Hanuma Vihari. What has he done wrong? In South Africa, in the one opportunity he got, he steadied the tail and batted defiantly, adding runs in India's second innings. So he should get opportunities," the ex-India opener opined. ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 "As for Shreyas Iyer, the kind of form he showed in the white-ball series (against Sri Lanka), and the way he started off his Test career in December against New Zealand, I think this should be our top five," Gavaskar further added. The second and final Test is a day-night affair, the third pink-ball encounter in India. If India win the Test, they will not only inflict a series whitewash over the Islanders but also continue their winning run, across formats, under Rohit since late 2021.

Mayank or Gill: Gavaskar shares his pick, suggests who should open with Rohit Sharma in 2nd Test vs SL

R Ashwin created history when he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (436). The 35-year-old wily off-spinner achieved the feat during Rohit Sharma-led India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali.

Earlier, Ashwin had surpassed Harbhajan Singh's wicket-tally (417) when India hosted New Zealand in two Tests in late 2021. Thus, he is now India's most successful off-spinner in whites and remains only behind leg spinner Anil Kumble (619) in terms of most wickets among Indians in the red-ball format (ninth-most wickets overall). In the past, comparisons have often taken place between Ashwin and Harbhajan, two of India's most successful off-spinners. Thus, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir picked the most difficult spinner to face among Ashwin and Bhajji.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-r-ashwin-reveals-how-broken-legs-helped-shane-warne-in-developing-strong-shoulders-460273">Unbelievable! R Ashwin reveals how broken legs helped Shane Warne in developing strong shoulders</a>

Gambhir, who has played with both the spinners,&nbsp;hailed Ashwin's&nbsp;accuracy and ability to vary pace in deciding the better offie. While&nbsp;he admitted that Harbhajan was more beautiful to watch, he picked Ashwin was the more difficult to face.

“As a batter, I would hate to face Ravichandran Ashwin, but I would love to watch Harbhajan Singh. This means, that as a left-hander, I would always feel that Ashwin could dismiss me, but as an analyst, then Harabhajan...he had that bounce, that doosra and could dip the ball. And Ashwin, for a left-hander or any other batter, he is much more difficult to face because he is far more accurate and difficult because of his speed variations. Harbhajan Singh was more beautiful to watch,” he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-dravid-proved-arun-lals-prediction-wrong-by-hitting-a-huge-six-in-indo-pak-test-watch-460257">THROWBACK: When Dravid proved Arun Lal's prediction wrong by hitting a huge six in Indo-Pak Test - WATCH</a>

Ashwin is now gearing up for the second and final Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. It will be a day-night affair, third in India, and will get underway on March 12.

The 35-year-old Ashwin is a staggering 183 wickets behind Kumble's tally and, hence, it will be interesting to see if he can carry on for few more years and reach closer (or surpass) to the magical number.

R Ashwin created history when he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (436). The 35-year-old wily off-spinner achieved the feat during Rohit Sharma-led India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali.

R Ashwin created history when he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (436). The 35-year-old wily off-spinner achieved the feat during Rohit Sharma-led India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. Earlier, Ashwin had surpassed Harbhajan Singh's wicket-tally (417) when India hosted New Zealand in two Tests in late 2021. Thus, he is now India's most successful off-spinner in whites and remains only behind leg spinner Anil Kumble (619) in terms of most wickets among Indians in the red-ball format (ninth-most wickets overall). In the past, comparisons have often taken place between Ashwin and Harbhajan, two of India's most successful off-spinners. Thus, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir picked the most difficult spinner to face among Ashwin and Bhajji. ALSO READ | Unbelievable! R Ashwin reveals how broken legs helped Shane Warne in developing strong shoulders Gambhir, who has played with both the spinners, hailed Ashwin's accuracy and ability to vary pace in deciding the better offie. While he admitted that Harbhajan was more beautiful to watch, he picked Ashwin was the more difficult to face. “As a batter, I would hate to face Ravichandran Ashwin, but I would love to watch Harbhajan Singh. This means, that as a left-hander, I would always feel that Ashwin could dismiss me, but as an analyst, then Harabhajan...he had that bounce, that doosra and could dip the ball. And Ashwin, for a left-hander or any other batter, he is much more difficult to face because he is far more accurate and difficult because of his speed variations. Harbhajan Singh was more beautiful to watch,” he said. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Dravid proved Arun Lal's prediction wrong by hitting a huge six in Indo-Pak Test - WATCH Ashwin is now gearing up for the second and final Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. It will be a day-night affair, third in India, and will get underway on March 12. The 35-year-old Ashwin is a staggering 183 wickets behind Kumble's tally and, hence, it will be interesting to see if he can carry on for few more years and reach closer (or surpass) to the magical number.

R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face

Rahul Dravid, the current Indian team head coach, remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain's international career spanned from 1996-2012. During his illustrious 16-year-long career at the highest level, Dravid amassed&nbsp;13,288 Test and 10,889 ODI runs and was known for his risk-free and orthodox style of batting.

During the second and penultimate Test between India and Pakistan, when Inzamam-ul-Haq &amp; Co. toured India in early 2005, Dravid proved former cricketer Arun Lal's prediction wrong in a hilarious manner. When Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar were batting in the middle, with India well-placed at 261-2 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on-air commentators Ramiz Raja and Lal were discussing how Dravid can go about his business in the middle, during spinner Danish Kaneria's over.

Ramiz suggested that Dravid can target going over the mid-off region -- as the fielder&nbsp;was well inside the inner circle&nbsp;-- with no protection in the deep. To this, Arun replied by saying that 'The Wall' is known to play orthodox shots and, hence, won't fancy for a&nbsp;glory shot. On the very next delivery, Dravid smacked a huge six, off Kaneria, in the long-on region to prove Arun's prediction wrong and also troll him, unintentionally, in a hilarious manner. The Indian commentator also laughed at the sudden turn of events. Here's the video of Dravid's unexpected six:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-kohli-rohit-bumrah-dont-play-ex-opener-on-dravid-co-fielding-2-different-playing-xis-in-tests-460229">If Kohli, Rohit &amp; Bumrah don't play...: Ex-opener on Dravid &amp; Co. fielding 2 different playing XIs in Tests</a>

At present, the Indian team head coach Dravid is involved in the Sri Lanka home Test series. Rohit Sharma-led India won the first Test convincingly, without dropping much sweat, to go 1-0 up courtesy an innings and 222 run-win in Mohali. The second and final Test will get underway on March 12, i.e. a day-night affair, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Rahul Dravid, the current Indian team head coach, remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain's international career spanned from 1996-2012. During his illustrious 16-year-long career at the highest level, Dravid amassed 13,288 Test and 10,889 ODI runs and was known for his risk-free and orthodox style of batting.

Rahul Dravid, the current Indian team head coach, remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain's international career spanned from 1996-2012. During his illustrious 16-year-long career at the highest level, Dravid amassed 13,288 Test and 10,889 ODI runs and was known for his risk-free and orthodox style of batting. During the second and penultimate Test between India and Pakistan, when Inzamam-ul-Haq & Co. toured India in early 2005, Dravid proved former cricketer Arun Lal's prediction wrong in a hilarious manner. When Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar were batting in the middle, with India well-placed at 261-2 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on-air commentators Ramiz Raja and Lal were discussing how Dravid can go about his business in the middle, during spinner Danish Kaneria's over. Ramiz suggested that Dravid can target going over the mid-off region -- as the fielder was well inside the inner circle -- with no protection in the deep. To this, Arun replied by saying that 'The Wall' is known to play orthodox shots and, hence, won't fancy for a glory shot. On the very next delivery, Dravid smacked a huge six, off Kaneria, in the long-on region to prove Arun's prediction wrong and also troll him, unintentionally, in a hilarious manner. The Indian commentator also laughed at the sudden turn of events. Here's the video of Dravid's unexpected six: ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 × ALSO READ | If Kohli, Rohit & Bumrah don't play...: Ex-opener on Dravid & Co. fielding 2 different playing XIs in Tests At present, the Indian team head coach Dravid is involved in the Sri Lanka home Test series. Rohit Sharma-led India won the first Test convincingly, without dropping much sweat, to go 1-0 up courtesy an innings and 222 run-win in Mohali. The second and final Test will get underway on March 12, i.e. a day-night affair, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

THROWBACK: When Dravid proved Arun Lal's prediction wrong by hitting a huge six in Indo-Pak Test - WATCH

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test of the two-match series at home. With an unassailable series lead, it will be interesting to see if the Rahul Dravid-led team management consider any changes in the playing XI for the second and final Test or will they retain the winning combination.

Under Dravid, India have stressed&nbsp;the fact of giving more exposure to the youngsters and testing the bench strength from time to time. Hence, it will be interesting to see what sort of playing XI Rohit &amp; Co. go ahead with for the series decider, which will be a day-night affair at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Ahead of the second and final Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra answered&nbsp;a fan's question who asked if Team India should field an alternate playing XI in the longest format, especially in a series of such mismatch (like the ongoing India-SL Tests). In this regard, Chopra made a bold claim.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

"In my opinion, play the best team in Test cricket. You might keep saying that it is the best format but in that format, if we don't play Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah, it will stop. It is already on the ventilator and after that, it will just die," Chopra explained on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

He added, "It is a good thought to entertain your heart because our full team lost 2-1 in South Africa. We used to win the toss but lose the match. We couldn't even stop fourth-innings run chases, only&nbsp;Rohit Sharma&nbsp;was missing, the entire rest of the team was present. Did we win that, we didn't."

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/r-ashwin-surpasses-kapil-dev-a-look-at-indias-highest-wicket-takers-in-tests-460007">R Ashwin surpasses Kapil Dev: A look at India's highest wicket-takers in Tests</a>

For the unversed, India have fielded two teams parallelly in the past on two occasions. The most recent one came during India's tour of Sri Lanka in mid-2021, when Dravid-Shikhar Dhawan's Indian team had visited the Island nation for three ODIs and T20Is each. Back then, Ravi Shastri-Virat Kohli's Indian Test team was in the United Kingdom for the five Tests versus hosts Joe Root-led England.
</section>

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test of the two-match series at home. With an unassailable series lead, it will be interesting to see if the Rahul Dravid-led team management consider any changes in the playing XI for the second and final Test or will they retain the winning combination.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test of the two-match series at home. With an unassailable series lead, it will be interesting to see if the Rahul Dravid-led team management consider any changes in the playing XI for the second and final Test or will they retain the winning combination. Under Dravid, India have stressed the fact of giving more exposure to the youngsters and testing the bench strength from time to time. Hence, it will be interesting to see what sort of playing XI Rohit & Co. go ahead with for the series decider, which will be a day-night affair at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Ahead of the second and final Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra answered a fan's question who asked if Team India should field an alternate playing XI in the longest format, especially in a series of such mismatch (like the ongoing India-SL Tests). In this regard, Chopra made a bold claim. ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 "In my opinion, play the best team in Test cricket. You might keep saying that it is the best format but in that format, if we don't play Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah, it will stop. It is already on the ventilator and after that, it will just die," Chopra explained on his Youtube channel. He added, "It is a good thought to entertain your heart because our full team lost 2-1 in South Africa. We used to win the toss but lose the match. We couldn't even stop fourth-innings run chases, only Rohit Sharma was missing, the entire rest of the team was present. Did we win that, we didn't." ALSO READ | R Ashwin surpasses Kapil Dev: A look at India's highest wicket-takers in Tests For the unversed, India have fielded two teams parallelly in the past on two occasions. The most recent one came during India's tour of Sri Lanka in mid-2021, when Dravid-Shikhar Dhawan's Indian team had visited the Island nation for three ODIs and T20Is each. Back then, Ravi Shastri-Virat Kohli's Indian Test team was in the United Kingdom for the five Tests versus hosts Joe Root-led England.

If Kohli, Rohit & Bumrah don't play...: Ex-opener on Dravid & Co. fielding 2 different playing XIs in Tests

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali.&nbsp;

Kohli contributed with a well-made 76-ball 45, however, once again missed out on scoring a triple-figure knock. Thus, he also couldn't&nbsp;end his two-year-long century drought at the international level. The wait for Kohli's international century continues as the right-hander has failed to deliver as per his credentails despite crossing the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats (since his last ton&nbsp;in late 2019).

The cricketing fraternity, thus, continues to wait for Kohli's century and the cameraman in the ongoing Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test caught hold of two fans, with one of them having a special message for the Indian star batter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-say-just-how-much-i-love-him-ricky-ponting-breaks-down-as-he-recalls-late-shane-warne-460021">I would say just how much I love him: Ricky Ponting breaks down as he recalls late Shane Warne</a>

One of the banners read that the fan really wanted&nbsp;Kohli to break his century drought and get to&nbsp;his 71st&nbsp;international ton&nbsp;in Pakistan. On the other hand,&nbsp;the other fan's banner read, "Biggest Match, 23rd Oct 2022, IND vs PAK (T20WC), Rohit v Shaheen."

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Some Virat Kohli fans have made a wish during Rawalpindi Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/mrKEaPFQEe">pic.twitter.com/mrKEaPFQEe</a>
— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArfaSays_/status/1500414935796441093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, another fan had&nbsp;a banner-- during PSL 2022 --&nbsp;in which he expressed his desire&nbsp;to see Kohli play on their home soil and score a hundred.&nbsp;

With the whole cricketing world waiting for Kohli's next ton, it will be interesting to see if he gets there in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, commencing on March 12&nbsp;at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-Australia's first Test is heading for a dull draw after the visitors came close to Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s first-innings total at stumps on Day 4, on Monday (March 07).

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali.

Virat Kohli remains a big name in world cricket. The 33-year-old recently became the 12th Indian cricketer to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma's Team India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali. Kohli contributed with a well-made 76-ball 45, however, once again missed out on scoring a triple-figure knock. Thus, he also couldn't end his two-year-long century drought at the international level. The wait for Kohli's international century continues as the right-hander has failed to deliver as per his credentails despite crossing the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats (since his last ton in late 2019). The cricketing fraternity, thus, continues to wait for Kohli's century and the cameraman in the ongoing Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test caught hold of two fans, with one of them having a special message for the Indian star batter. ALSO READ | I would say just how much I love him: Ricky Ponting breaks down as he recalls late Shane Warne One of the banners read that the fan really wanted Kohli to break his century drought and get to his 71st international ton in Pakistan. On the other hand, the other fan's banner read, "Biggest Match, 23rd Oct 2022, IND vs PAK (T20WC), Rohit v Shaheen." Some Virat Kohli fans have made a wish during Rawalpindi Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium #PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/mrKEaPFQEe — Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) March 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 For the unversed, another fan had a banner-- during PSL 2022 -- in which he expressed his desire to see Kohli play on their home soil and score a hundred. With the whole cricketing world waiting for Kohli's next ton, it will be interesting to see if he gets there in India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, commencing on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Pakistan-Australia's first Test is heading for a dull draw after the visitors came close to Babar Azam & Co.'s first-innings total at stumps on Day 4, on Monday (March 07).

We want your 71st century in Pakistan: Fan's message for Virat Kohli wins hearts

From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22

India thrashed Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series opener of the two Tests in Mohali on Sunday (March 06). After dismissing the Lankans for a paltry 174 in the visitors' first essay, following India's 574-8 decl., India bundled out the Islanders for 178 in their following innings to win big and go 1-0 up in the series.

There were quite a few positives for Team India throughout the course of the first Test. While Ravindra Jadeja further grew in stature as an all-rounder, returning with a blistering 175 not out and nine-wicket haul in the match, R Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket tally (434) to become India's second-highest wicket-taker (436), after Anil Kumble (619).

After the match, Rohit was asked to comment on how Ashwin still struggles to feature in India's playing XI on a regular basis when playing away from home (in overseas conditions). To this, Hitman said the following in the post-match presser:

“Really, can’t tell you anything about his overseas place - why doesn’t he find it or why is he in the eleven. I honestly, have no idea because I wasn’t a part of the selection at that point so I can’t tell you what happened and why was he left out and why didn’t he play and those kinds of stuff,” Rohit explained.

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At the post-match presentation, Rohit hailed the team effort and said, "It was a good start. It was a great game of cricket from our perspective. We ticked all the boxes we wanted to. To be honest I didn't think it is going to be that kind of a Test match which would get over in three days. It was a good batting pitch, there was some turn and some assistance for the seamers as well. Lot of credit to the guys, they bowled very well in tandem, kept the pressure and never made it easier for the Sri Lanka batsmen. We just ensured we applied pressure from both ends. Good signs for India cricket. Lot of performances, landmark Test match for Virat and we wanted to come out here and win the Test first and foremost. It was heartening to see such big individual performances."

Apart from Ashwin-Jadeja, there were many positives for India in the form of vital runs from new No. 3 batter Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant's 96 and key wickets from Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. The second and final Test commences on March 12 in Bengaluru; i.e. a day-night affair.

India thrashed Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series opener of the two Tests in Mohali on Sunday (March 06). After dismissing the Lankans for a paltry 174 in the visitors' first essay, following India's 574-8 decl.

India thrashed Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series opener of the two Tests in Mohali on Sunday (March 06). After dismissing the Lankans for a paltry 174 in the visitors' first essay, following India's 574-8 decl., India bundled out the Islanders for 178 in their following innings to win big and go 1-0 up in the series. There were quite a few positives for Team India throughout the course of the first Test. While Ravindra Jadeja further grew in stature as an all-rounder, returning with a blistering 175 not out and nine-wicket haul in the match, R Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket tally (434) to become India's second-highest wicket-taker (436), after Anil Kumble (619). After the match, Rohit was asked to comment on how Ashwin still struggles to feature in India's playing XI on a regular basis when playing away from home (in overseas conditions). To this, Hitman said the following in the post-match presser: “Really, can’t tell you anything about his overseas place - why doesn’t he find it or why is he in the eleven. I honestly, have no idea because I wasn’t a part of the selection at that point so I can’t tell you what happened and why was he left out and why didn’t he play and those kinds of stuff,” Rohit explained. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli's gesture towards a disabled fan goes viral after India's massive win in his historic Test pic.twitter.com/m3LZHJi3ys — Addicric (@addicric) March 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | R Ashwin is an all-time great: Rohit hails spinner after he becomes India's 2nd highest wicket-taker in Tests At the post-match presentation, Rohit hailed the team effort and said, "It was a good start. It was a great game of cricket from our perspective. We ticked all the boxes we wanted to. To be honest I didn't think it is going to be that kind of a Test match which would get over in three days. It was a good batting pitch, there was some turn and some assistance for the seamers as well. Lot of credit to the guys, they bowled very well in tandem, kept the pressure and never made it easier for the Sri Lanka batsmen. We just ensured we applied pressure from both ends. Good signs for India cricket. Lot of performances, landmark Test match for Virat and we wanted to come out here and win the Test first and foremost. It was heartening to see such big individual performances." Apart from Ashwin-Jadeja, there were many positives for India in the form of vital runs from new No. 3 batter Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant's 96 and key wickets from Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. The second and final Test commences on March 12 in Bengaluru; i.e. a day-night affair.

'Honestly, have no idea':  Rohit Sharma on why R Ashwin hasn't featured regularly in overseas Tests

After a dominating win in their opening clash of the ongoing Women's ODI World Cup, the Indian team posed with Pakistan skipper Bismah Maroof's daughter.

In the picture shared by the International Cricket Council's (ICC) official Twitter account, Indian skipper Mithali Raj, Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandha and others could be seen posing with Bismah Maroof and her daughter, Fatima.

"Little Fatima's first lesson in the spirit of cricket from India and Pakistan," ICC captioned the post.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-we-won-against-pakistan-but-lot-of-things-to-work-on-india-skipper-mithali-raj-459534">Happy we won against Pakistan, but lot of things to work on: India skipper Mithali Raj</a>

Twitteratis poured love&nbsp;and appreciation for the picture.Commenting on ICC's post, Pakistan all-rounder Kainat Imtiaz wrote, "Our lil star".

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This video .. 
 
🇮🇳🙌🏻🇵🇰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC22</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Peshawarblast?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Peshawarblast</a> <a href="https://t.co/VuoCOGyzKW">pic.twitter.com/VuoCOGyzKW</a>
— Dhruba Jyot Nath 🇮🇳 (@Dhrubayogi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dhrubayogi/status/1500418259530633218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Another user wrote, "Great gesture shown by team India towards peace, hope other side will do the same. Peace and love should always prevail, rivalry should not because of enmity _it must be source of enjoyment_ anyway good luck and congratulations girls in blue."

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Fighting knocks of Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar were backed up by all-around bowling performance as India defeated Pakistan by 107 runs in the fourth game of the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup.

Earlier, Pooja Vastrakar (67), Smriti Mandhana (52) and Sneh Rana (53*) were the standout performers as India posted 244/7.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-wc-2022-sachin-tendulkar-virender-sehwag-congratulate-team-india-after-win-against-pakistan-459538">Women's WC 2022: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag congratulate Team India after win against Pakistan</a>

Vastrakar and Rana formed a 122-run stand for the seventh wicket.

In the final five overs, India scored more runs to take the total past the 240-run mark.

India will next lock horns against New Zealand in the tournament on Thursday.

After a dominating win in their opening clash of the ongoing Women's ODI World Cup, the Indian team posed with Pakistan skipper Bismah Maroof's daughter. In the picture shared by the International Cricket Council's (ICC) official Twitter account, Indian skipper Mithali Raj, Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandha and others could be seen posing with Bismah Maroof and her daughter, Fatima.

After a dominating win in their opening clash of the ongoing Women's ODI World Cup, the Indian team posed with Pakistan skipper Bismah Maroof's daughter. In the picture shared by the International Cricket Council's (ICC) official Twitter account, Indian skipper Mithali Raj, Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandha and others could be seen posing with Bismah Maroof and her daughter, Fatima. "Little Fatima's first lesson in the spirit of cricket from India and Pakistan," ICC captioned the post. ALSO READ: Happy we won against Pakistan, but lot of things to work on: India skipper Mithali Raj Twitteratis poured love and appreciation for the picture.Commenting on ICC's post, Pakistan all-rounder Kainat Imtiaz wrote, "Our lil star". This video .. 🇮🇳🙌🏻🇵🇰#INDvPAK #INDvSL #PAKvIND #PAKvAUS#CWC22 #Peshawarblast pic.twitter.com/VuoCOGyzKW — Dhruba Jyot Nath 🇮🇳 (@Dhrubayogi) March 6, 2022 × Another user wrote, "Great gesture shown by team India towards peace, hope other side will do the same. Peace and love should always prevail, rivalry should not because of enmity _it must be source of enjoyment_ anyway good luck and congratulations girls in blue." View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Fighting knocks of Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar were backed up by all-around bowling performance as India defeated Pakistan by 107 runs in the fourth game of the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup. Earlier, Pooja Vastrakar (67), Smriti Mandhana (52) and Sneh Rana (53*) were the standout performers as India posted 244/7. ALSO READ: Women's WC 2022: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag congratulate Team India after win against Pakistan Vastrakar and Rana formed a 122-run stand for the seventh wicket. In the final five overs, India scored more runs to take the total past the 240-run mark. India will next lock horns against New Zealand in the tournament on Thursday.

Indian players play with Pakistan skipper Bismah Maroof's daughter, win hearts - WATCH

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar congratulated Team India for their 'brilliant win'&nbsp;over Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup here at the Bay Oval on Sunday.

Fighting knocks of Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar were backed up by all-round bowling performance as India defeated Pakistan by 107 runs in the fourth game of the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup.

"Brilliant win for #TeamIndia! The partnership between Sneh and Pooja got us back in the game when we were 114/6. The best thing the two did was to rotate strike smartly and convert 2s into 3s and didn't miss out on putting loose deliveries away. Their mindset helped us win," tweeted Sachin.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-we-won-against-pakistan-but-lot-of-things-to-work-on-india-skipper-mithali-raj-459534">Happy we won against Pakistan, but lot of things to work on: India skipper Mithali Raj</a>

Meanwhile, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur also took to his Twitter and wrote, "#TeamIndia WIN !!! Superb performance &amp; spectacular start to the World Cup! Congratulations Team, well done!"

Former India batter Virender Sehwag also congratulated Indian girls for their 'spectacular performance'&nbsp;against Pakistan.

"What a spectacular performance by the Indian girls against Pakistan. That was a thrashing and in grand style. Pooja Vastrakar with a valiant innings, the ever so reliable Sneh Rana's great all-round show &amp; Rajeshwari Gayakwad outstanding with the ball. Chak de India," tweeted Sehwag.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-pakistan-by-107-runs-as-mithali-raj-co-begin-womens-world-cup-2022-campaign-with-a-win-459494">India thrash Pakistan by 107 runs as Mithali Raj &amp; Co. begin Women's World Cup 2022 campaign with a win</a>

Earlier, Pooja Vastrakar (67), Smriti Mandhana (52) and Sneh Rana (53*) were the standout performers as India posted 244/7.

Vastrakar and Rana formed a 122-run stand for the seventh wicket. In the final five overs, India scored more runs to take the total past the 240-run mark.

India will next lock horns against New Zealand in the tournament on Thursday.

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar congratulated Team India for their 'brilliant win' over Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup here at the Bay Oval on Sunday.

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar congratulated Team India for their 'brilliant win' over Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup here at the Bay Oval on Sunday. Fighting knocks of Sneh Rana and Pooja Vastrakar were backed up by all-round bowling performance as India defeated Pakistan by 107 runs in the fourth game of the ongoing ICC Women's 50-over World Cup. "Brilliant win for #TeamIndia! The partnership between Sneh and Pooja got us back in the game when we were 114/6. The best thing the two did was to rotate strike smartly and convert 2s into 3s and didn't miss out on putting loose deliveries away. Their mindset helped us win," tweeted Sachin. ALSO READ: Happy we won against Pakistan, but lot of things to work on: India skipper Mithali Raj Meanwhile, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur also took to his Twitter and wrote, "#TeamIndia WIN !!! Superb performance & spectacular start to the World Cup! Congratulations Team, well done!" Former India batter Virender Sehwag also congratulated Indian girls for their 'spectacular performance' against Pakistan. "What a spectacular performance by the Indian girls against Pakistan. That was a thrashing and in grand style. Pooja Vastrakar with a valiant innings, the ever so reliable Sneh Rana's great all-round show & Rajeshwari Gayakwad outstanding with the ball. Chak de India," tweeted Sehwag. ALSO READ: India thrash Pakistan by 107 runs as Mithali Raj & Co. begin Women's World Cup 2022 campaign with a win Earlier, Pooja Vastrakar (67), Smriti Mandhana (52) and Sneh Rana (53*) were the standout performers as India posted 244/7. Vastrakar and Rana formed a 122-run stand for the seventh wicket. In the final five overs, India scored more runs to take the total past the 240-run mark. India will next lock horns against New Zealand in the tournament on Thursday.

Women's WC 2022: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag congratulate Team India after win against Pakistan

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