R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The off-spinner attained two wickets in the match and will hope to contribute more in the remaining two Tests and lead India to their first-ever series win in the rainbow nation.

Recently, the spin-bowling all-rounder Ashwin recalled a time when people had written him off completely. In 2021, Ashwin made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after four years when he was part of the T20 World Cup and New Zealand T20Is at home. On the last day of 2021, he was also named in India's 18-man squad for the Proteas ODIs. While the offie is now back to featuring in all forms of the game for Team India, he had to struggle for a long time between 2017 to mid-2021; only playing the Tests. Thus, Ashwin recalled the time when criticism from people&nbsp; -- who lost faith in the spinner and wrote him off -- affected him.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-were-timid-it-showed-in-our-game-ravi-shastri-decodes-team-indias-2021-t20-world-cup-debacle-441565">We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle</a>

Speaking on Backstage with Boria, Ashwin said, "As a sportsman, you are engulfed by criticism. You want to overcome that. A lot of people wrote me off. I used to walk into club games in Chennai and I used to put in the hard yards. And I would hear murmurs about people saying ‘this guy is coming a`nd playing because his international career is done, he is finished’. I used to keep hearing these things. Sometimes it’s easy to laugh off, sometimes it hurts.

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"I used to wake up during the pandemic every single day telling myself - it doesn’t matter what people think, but this particular cricketer, this particular character has, has something left. And, this is not how I want to leave. It used to be a hard battle. I used to train twice in a day. I reviewed over 3-10 dietitians. I am definitely eating better, training better and more positive inside my head," Ashwin further said.

Ashwin ended 2021 being the highest-wicket taker in the purest format (54 scalps). Being back in the reckoning in the limited-overs setup, he will now hope to perform in a similar stead in all forms of the game for Team India in 2022.

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion.

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The off-spinner attained two wickets in the match and will hope to contribute more in the remaining two Tests and lead India to their first-ever series win in the rainbow nation. Recently, the spin-bowling all-rounder Ashwin recalled a time when people had written him off completely. In 2021, Ashwin made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after four years when he was part of the T20 World Cup and New Zealand T20Is at home. On the last day of 2021, he was also named in India's 18-man squad for the Proteas ODIs. While the offie is now back to featuring in all forms of the game for Team India, he had to struggle for a long time between 2017 to mid-2021; only playing the Tests. Thus, Ashwin recalled the time when criticism from people -- who lost faith in the spinner and wrote him off -- affected him. ALSO READ | We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle Speaking on Backstage with Boria, Ashwin said, "As a sportsman, you are engulfed by criticism. You want to overcome that. A lot of people wrote me off. I used to walk into club games in Chennai and I used to put in the hard yards. And I would hear murmurs about people saying ‘this guy is coming a`nd playing because his international career is done, he is finished’. I used to keep hearing these things. Sometimes it’s easy to laugh off, sometimes it hurts. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022 "I used to wake up during the pandemic every single day telling myself - it doesn’t matter what people think, but this particular cricketer, this particular character has, has something left. And, this is not how I want to leave. It used to be a hard battle. I used to train twice in a day. I reviewed over 3-10 dietitians. I am definitely eating better, training better and more positive inside my head," Ashwin further said. Ashwin ended 2021 being the highest-wicket taker in the purest format (54 scalps). Being back in the reckoning in the limited-overs setup, he will now hope to perform in a similar stead in all forms of the game for Team India in 2022.

Kept hearing murmurs about people saying 'this guy is finished', recalls R Ashwin

The year 2021 ended on an emphatic note for Team India, with the Virat Kohli-led Test side achieving their first-ever win at Centurion; which was South Africa's fortress since 2014. India won the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, at SuperSpork Park, Centurion, and will aim to win their maiden series on African soil in early 2022.&nbsp;

Like every other year, 2022 is also a hectic one in the offing for Team India. The Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer national side have a plethora of series at home, along with the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Here's a quick look at India's cricketing calendar for 2022:

Ind vs SA remaining Tests, 3 ODIs

Team India will play the Proteas in the remaining two Tests and move to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19 at Paarl.&nbsp;

India to host WI, SL

After the SA tour, India will play host to West Indies for a limited-overs series, comprising three ODIs and T20Is each from early to mid-February. It will be followed by a two-match Test series versus the Islanders and three ODIs as well.&nbsp;

The two Tests are scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. The ODIs versus the Lankans will be played on March 13, 15 and 18.&nbsp;

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Indian Premier League (IPL 15)

The BCCI will then host the 15th edition of the cash-rich league, which will comprise two new teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. The league is expected to start in early April and conclude by May end.&nbsp;

India to host SA in five T20Is

As a dress rehearsal for the T20 WC, Rohit-led India will host five T20Is against Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, from June 9-17.&nbsp;

India tour of England

India will travel to the United Kingdom for the last Test of the incomplete five-match series from 2021. It will be followed by three T20Is and equal number of ODIs. The fifth Test will be held from July 1-5&nbsp;whereas the limited-overs leg will commence on July 7 and last till July 17.

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West Indies, Asia Cup in Sri Lanka

After the UK trip, India will remain on the road and travel to the Caribbean island from three T20Is and equal number of ODIs, from July to August. In September, Rohit &amp; Co. will go to the island nation for the T20 Asia Cup, serving as a perfect platform to finalise their squad for the World Cup. An India-Pakistan clash is also guaranteed in the showpiece event.

T20 WC

The biggest event of the year, in men's cricket, will be the T20 WC which is set to be held in Australia. Rohit &amp; Co. will arrive in Australia after the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and aim to end their ICC-title drought. The tournament will take place from October 16&nbsp;to November 13.

India to tour Bangla Tigers

The year will end for the senior men's cricket team with a tour of Bangladesh, comprising two Tests (part of WTC cycle) and three ODIs. The dates, however, are yet to be revealed.

Hence, India have quite a few series at home in the first half of the year whereas they will be on the road for majority of the second-half of 2022.&nbsp;

The year 2021 ended on an emphatic note for Team India, with the Virat Kohli-led Test side achieving their first-ever win at Centurion; which was South Africa's fortress since 2014.

The year 2021 ended on an emphatic note for Team India, with the Virat Kohli-led Test side achieving their first-ever win at Centurion; which was South Africa's fortress since 2014. India won the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, at SuperSpork Park, Centurion, and will aim to win their maiden series on African soil in early 2022. Like every other year, 2022 is also a hectic one in the offing for Team India. The Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer national side have a plethora of series at home, along with the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Here's a quick look at India's cricketing calendar for 2022: Ind vs SA remaining Tests, 3 ODIs Team India will play the Proteas in the remaining two Tests and move to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19 at Paarl. India to host WI, SL After the SA tour, India will play host to West Indies for a limited-overs series, comprising three ODIs and T20Is each from early to mid-February. It will be followed by a two-match Test series versus the Islanders and three ODIs as well. The two Tests are scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. The ODIs versus the Lankans will be played on March 13, 15 and 18. ALSO READ | Everyone told Virat Kohli to reconsider stepping down as T20 captain, says chief selector Chetan Sharma Indian Premier League (IPL 15) The BCCI will then host the 15th edition of the cash-rich league, which will comprise two new teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. The league is expected to start in early April and conclude by May end. India to host SA in five T20Is As a dress rehearsal for the T20 WC, Rohit-led India will host five T20Is against Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, from June 9-17. India tour of England India will travel to the United Kingdom for the last Test of the incomplete five-match series from 2021. It will be followed by three T20Is and equal number of ODIs. The fifth Test will be held from July 1-5 whereas the limited-overs leg will commence on July 7 and last till July 17. ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury West Indies, Asia Cup in Sri Lanka After the UK trip, India will remain on the road and travel to the Caribbean island from three T20Is and equal number of ODIs, from July to August. In September, Rohit & Co. will go to the island nation for the T20 Asia Cup, serving as a perfect platform to finalise their squad for the World Cup. An India-Pakistan clash is also guaranteed in the showpiece event. T20 WC The biggest event of the year, in men's cricket, will be the T20 WC which is set to be held in Australia. Rohit & Co. will arrive in Australia after the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and aim to end their ICC-title drought. The tournament will take place from October 16 to November 13. India to tour Bangla Tigers The year will end for the senior men's cricket team with a tour of Bangladesh, comprising two Tests (part of WTC cycle) and three ODIs. The dates, however, are yet to be revealed. Hence, India have quite a few series at home in the first half of the year whereas they will be on the road for majority of the second-half of 2022.

Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game. The year had two ICC tournaments, in the form of WTC final and T20 World Cup, but India failed to win any major title. While their overall run in Tests remained impressive, the Men in Blue fell flat in the T20 WC.&nbsp;

Talking about India's campaign in the 2021 T20 WC, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost their opening clash to Pakistan by ten wickets (losing their first-ever game versus the arch-rivals in a World Cup). In their next encounter, the one-time winners India were listless versus Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they lost by 8 wickets to edge closer to elimination. While Kohli &amp; Co. bounced back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and New Zealand marched to the semi-finals from India's group, i.e. Pool B. Recently, Ravi Shastri opined on India's struggles in the T20 WC, post which his tenure as the head coach came to an end.&nbsp;

"Pakistan played well on that day, and against New Zealand, we were timid. We were very timid. It showed in the game. We were tentative instead of going for the jugular. You never mind losing as long as you're throwing punches. But if you're timid and tentative then it hurts more. And in a tournament like this if you lose too early then you're in trouble," Shastri said on the Bold &amp; Brave The Ravi Shastri Way' show on Star Sports.

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Shastri further called for the tournament's format to be like the one witnessed in the 2019 ODI World Cup, which was a round-robin stage with each team playing the other once before the knockouts. The former Indian all-rounder also feels that the playoffs scenario should also be implemented in World Cups. In this regard, he said, "It's not like the format in 2019, where you can play every opposition. I think that is the way to go forward. That format is the best, and then have the Playoffs ideally, if you want to decide the World Cup," explained Shastri."

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Since the 2021 T20 WC campaign, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter resigned from the post with the end of the World Cup, and recently replaced him as the limited-overs captain as well. The year 2022 will see teams compete once again in the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be held in current champions Australia's backyard. The one-time winners Team India will aim to move past their past struggles and claim the mega title in 2022.&nbsp;

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game.

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game. The year had two ICC tournaments, in the form of WTC final and T20 World Cup, but India failed to win any major title. While their overall run in Tests remained impressive, the Men in Blue fell flat in the T20 WC. Talking about India's campaign in the 2021 T20 WC, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost their opening clash to Pakistan by ten wickets (losing their first-ever game versus the arch-rivals in a World Cup). In their next encounter, the one-time winners India were listless versus Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they lost by 8 wickets to edge closer to elimination. While Kohli & Co. bounced back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and New Zealand marched to the semi-finals from India's group, i.e. Pool B. Recently, Ravi Shastri opined on India's struggles in the T20 WC, post which his tenure as the head coach came to an end. "Pakistan played well on that day, and against New Zealand, we were timid. We were very timid. It showed in the game. We were tentative instead of going for the jugular. You never mind losing as long as you're throwing punches. But if you're timid and tentative then it hurts more. And in a tournament like this if you lose too early then you're in trouble," Shastri said on the Bold & Brave The Ravi Shastri Way' show on Star Sports. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar Shastri further called for the tournament's format to be like the one witnessed in the 2019 ODI World Cup, which was a round-robin stage with each team playing the other once before the knockouts. The former Indian all-rounder also feels that the playoffs scenario should also be implemented in World Cups. In this regard, he said, "It's not like the format in 2019, where you can play every opposition. I think that is the way to go forward. That format is the best, and then have the Playoffs ideally, if you want to decide the World Cup," explained Shastri." ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury Since the 2021 T20 WC campaign, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter resigned from the post with the end of the World Cup, and recently replaced him as the limited-overs captain as well. The year 2022 will see teams compete once again in the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be held in current champions Australia's backyard. The one-time winners Team India will aim to move past their past struggles and claim the mega title in 2022.

We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle

BCCI announced a strong 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Friday (December 31). The series will take place in early 2022, soon after the conclusion of the ongoing Tests in the African nation.&nbsp;

While all eyes were on Rohit Sharma's fitness, the limited-overs captain will miss the series after being ruled out due to hamstring injury as his deputy KL Rahul will lead the side in his absence. This will be the first time that Rahul will lead the side in a full series. Earlier, he had led Team India in a T20I in New Zealand, during the final innings, and has led the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the last two IPL seasons.&nbsp;

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For the unversed, Rahul is also serving as the vice-captain in the ongoing Test series in Rohit's absence. Talking about the squad, it is a well-oiled unit with experienced campaigners such as Shikhar Dhawan, former captain Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah (named vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the line-up. Among the young guns, Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who top-scored in IPL 2021 and returned with four tons in Vijay Hazare Trophy -- Venkatesh Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar have also been included. The likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel have missed out due to injury concerns.&nbsp;

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The ODI series will get underway on January 19 at Paarl, which will be followed by the second and third encounter at Paarl and Cape Town, respectively. The Indian team will be eager to begin 2022 in style by winning the Test as well as the ODI series in the African nation. In year 2021, India played only a handful of ODIs (six), winning four&nbsp;and losing two games.

Squad: KL Rahul (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad, Kohli, Iyer, Suryakumar, Venktesh, Kishan, Ashwin, Chahal, Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar, Pant, Krishna, Siraj, Shardul, Deepak Chahar

BCCI announced a strong 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Friday (December 31). The series will take place in early 2022, soon after the conclusion of the ongoing Tests in the African nation.

BCCI announced a strong 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Friday (December 31). The series will take place in early 2022, soon after the conclusion of the ongoing Tests in the African nation. While all eyes were on Rohit Sharma's fitness, the limited-overs captain will miss the series after being ruled out due to hamstring injury as his deputy KL Rahul will lead the side in his absence. This will be the first time that Rahul will lead the side in a full series. Earlier, he had led Team India in a T20I in New Zealand, during the final innings, and has led the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the last two IPL seasons. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli dances with resort staff as India cap off 2021 with historic Centurion Test win For the unversed, Rahul is also serving as the vice-captain in the ongoing Test series in Rohit's absence. Talking about the squad, it is a well-oiled unit with experienced campaigners such as Shikhar Dhawan, former captain Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah (named vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the line-up. Among the young guns, Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who top-scored in IPL 2021 and returned with four tons in Vijay Hazare Trophy -- Venkatesh Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar have also been included. The likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel have missed out due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | South Africa no match to Team India: Harbhajan backs Virat Kohli & Co. to win maiden Test series in SA The ODI series will get underway on January 19 at Paarl, which will be followed by the second and third encounter at Paarl and Cape Town, respectively. The Indian team will be eager to begin 2022 in style by winning the Test as well as the ODI series in the African nation. In year 2021, India played only a handful of ODIs (six), winning four and losing two games. Squad: KL Rahul (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad, Kohli, Iyer, Suryakumar, Venktesh, Kishan, Ashwin, Chahal, Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Bhuvneshwar, Pant, Krishna, Siraj, Shardul, Deepak Chahar

KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30) and go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Everything clicked for the visitors from the word go as they went onto win their first-ever Test at Centurion, which was SA's fortress since 2014.&nbsp;

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Kohli &amp; Co. rode on KL Rahul's 123 to post 327 all-out. In reply, Proteas fell like nine pins to be all-out for 197, courtesy Mohammed Shami's five-fer, to concede a 130-run lead. In their second essay, India managed only 174 but setup a competitive 305-run target for the hosts. On Day 5, Dean Elgar-led Proteas resumed at 94-4 and got dismissed for 191 to lose the clash by 113 runs.&nbsp;

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Thus, India are now one step closer to winning their maiden Test series in the African nation. Ahead of the second Test, which gets underway on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, former spinner Harbhajan Sigh feels Kohli &amp; Co. are too dominant infront of the hapless Proteas and will get past them in one of the two remaining Tests to win the series.&nbsp;

"We’ve spoken about it earlier as well that this series will present plenty of opportunities against South Africa. When India used to tour South Africa earlier, it seemed as if they are travelling to play in very difficult conditions, but now the irrespective of the scenario in South African cricket, India have the bowlers to take 20 wickets. Shami picked five wickets and bowled splendidly in the second innings. Bumrah took crucial wickets on Day 4 evening," Harbhajan said on Sports Tak.

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"Overall, if you look at it, this South Africa team is no match to the current Indian unit. I feel this is a very strong Indian team and like I had said earlier, this is their best opportunity to win a Test series there. If they can't win it this time around, it will be very difficult. The start though has been very good and, in the time to come, India will win at least one of the next two games and take the series," explained Harbhajan.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30) and go 1-0 up in the three-match series.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30) and go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Everything clicked for the visitors from the word go as they went onto win their first-ever Test at Centurion, which was SA's fortress since 2014. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Kohli & Co. rode on KL Rahul's 123 to post 327 all-out. In reply, Proteas fell like nine pins to be all-out for 197, courtesy Mohammed Shami's five-fer, to concede a 130-run lead. In their second essay, India managed only 174 but setup a competitive 305-run target for the hosts. On Day 5, Dean Elgar-led Proteas resumed at 94-4 and got dismissed for 191 to lose the clash by 113 runs. ALSO READ | No Kohli or Bumrah! Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among 4 Indians in Cricket Australia's Test XI of 2021 Thus, India are now one step closer to winning their maiden Test series in the African nation. Ahead of the second Test, which gets underway on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, former spinner Harbhajan Sigh feels Kohli & Co. are too dominant infront of the hapless Proteas and will get past them in one of the two remaining Tests to win the series. "We’ve spoken about it earlier as well that this series will present plenty of opportunities against South Africa. When India used to tour South Africa earlier, it seemed as if they are travelling to play in very difficult conditions, but now the irrespective of the scenario in South African cricket, India have the bowlers to take 20 wickets. Shami picked five wickets and bowled splendidly in the second innings. Bumrah took crucial wickets on Day 4 evening," Harbhajan said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | Team India by far the best in the world: Former SA pacer lauds Virat Kohli & Co. post Centurion Test win "Overall, if you look at it, this South Africa team is no match to the current Indian unit. I feel this is a very strong Indian team and like I had said earlier, this is their best opportunity to win a Test series there. If they can't win it this time around, it will be very difficult. The start though has been very good and, in the time to come, India will win at least one of the next two games and take the series," explained Harbhajan.

South Africa no match to Team India: Harbhajan backs Virat Kohli & Co. to win maiden Test series in SA

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

Many big guns made heads turn with their performances whereas some marquee players fell flat. On the other hand, some new faces made a mark in the toughest form of the game with their efforts on the field. Cricket Australia, thus, shared their Test XI for the year 2021, which featured some big names but the likes of Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah found no place.&nbsp;

Cricket.com.au Test team features as many as four Indians, such as Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel. Rohit ended the year being the second-highest run-getter after Joe Root (1,708 runs). Rohit slammed 2 tons and 4 fifties whereas Pant finished with 748 runs, with 1 hundred and as many as five half-centuries. Ashwin is 2021's leading wicket-taker (54 scalps) whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar debuted in whites this year and returned with 36 scalps (second-most by an Indian).&nbsp;

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The other players in the list are Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne (with 902 runs with 4 centuries and 3 fifties), also named the captain. Joe Root, Fawad Alam and Marnus Labuschagne also made the cut. Labuschagne ended being Australia's top run-getter in Tests (526 runs) whereas Fawad had three&nbsp;triple-figure knocks and two fifties. The rest of the list includes Kyle Jamieson (Player-of-the-Match in WTC final) and Pakistan's pace duo Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi (both among the top 3 wicket-takers in 2021).

Cricket Australia Test XI of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Root, Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Kyle Jamieson, Axar Patel, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game.

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game. Many big guns made heads turn with their performances whereas some marquee players fell flat. On the other hand, some new faces made a mark in the toughest form of the game with their efforts on the field. Cricket Australia, thus, shared their Test XI for the year 2021, which featured some big names but the likes of Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah found no place. Cricket.com.au Test team features as many as four Indians, such as Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel. Rohit ended the year being the second-highest run-getter after Joe Root (1,708 runs). Rohit slammed 2 tons and 4 fifties whereas Pant finished with 748 runs, with 1 hundred and as many as five half-centuries. Ashwin is 2021's leading wicket-taker (54 scalps) whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar debuted in whites this year and returned with 36 scalps (second-most by an Indian). ALSO READ | ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award: Smriti Mandhana among four players nominated The other players in the list are Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne (with 902 runs with 4 centuries and 3 fifties), also named the captain. Joe Root, Fawad Alam and Marnus Labuschagne also made the cut. Labuschagne ended being Australia's top run-getter in Tests (526 runs) whereas Fawad had three triple-figure knocks and two fifties. The rest of the list includes Kyle Jamieson (Player-of-the-Match in WTC final) and Pakistan's pace duo Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi (both among the top 3 wicket-takers in 2021). Cricket Australia Test XI of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Root, Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Kyle Jamieson, Axar Patel, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi

No Kohli or Bumrah! Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among 4 Indians in Cricket Australia's Test XI of 2021

India beat South Africa in the first Test at the SuperSport Park, Centurion by 113 runs to go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Batting first, India made 327 riding on KL Rahul's 123 whereas Mohammed Shami's five-fer led to the Proteas conceding a whopping 130-run first-innings lead to the visitors.&nbsp;

While Virat Kohli-led India collapsed for a mere 174 in their second essay, they managed to setup a competitive 305-run target for the home side as Dean Elgar &amp; Co. fell for 191 to lose by 113 runs. After the first Test, former SA pacer Morne Morkel lavished huge praise on the Indian Test team, calling them the 'best in the world today'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-dances-with-resort-staff-as-india-cap-off-2021-with-historic-centurion-test-win-441406">Watch: Virat Kohli dances with resort staff as India cap off 2021 with historic Centurion Test win</a>

"Well Done. They (Team India) are by far the best team in the world today. In a short time now, you deserve it, they've worked long and hard to support their team that can go an compete away from home," Morkel said talking to Star Sports during the post-match show.

"The clear game plan that the bowlers can take 20 wickets; so enjoy this moment. I think it's a special feat to be a part of. For me, India are definitely leading the way," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-played-some-outstanding-cricket-virat-kohli-looks-back-at-indias-glorious-test-run-in-2021-441357">We played some outstanding cricket: Virat Kohli looks back at India's glorious Test run in 2021</a>

The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side will now aim to add to Proteas' woes and win the second and penultimate Test, starting on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, to script history by achieving their maiden series triumph on South African soil.&nbsp;

After winning two Test series in a row in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, Kohli-led India will aim to create history in South Africa this time around.

India beat South Africa in the first Test at the SuperSport Park, Centurion by 113 runs to go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Batting first, India made 327 riding on KL Rahul's 123 whereas Mohammed Shami's five-fer led to the Proteas conceding a whopping 130-run first-innings lead to the visitors.

India beat South Africa in the first Test at the SuperSport Park, Centurion by 113 runs to go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Batting first, India made 327 riding on KL Rahul's 123 whereas Mohammed Shami's five-fer led to the Proteas conceding a whopping 130-run first-innings lead to the visitors. While Virat Kohli-led India collapsed for a mere 174 in their second essay, they managed to setup a competitive 305-run target for the home side as Dean Elgar & Co. fell for 191 to lose by 113 runs. After the first Test, former SA pacer Morne Morkel lavished huge praise on the Indian Test team, calling them the 'best in the world today'. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli dances with resort staff as India cap off 2021 with historic Centurion Test win "Well Done. They (Team India) are by far the best team in the world today. In a short time now, you deserve it, they've worked long and hard to support their team that can go an compete away from home," Morkel said talking to Star Sports during the post-match show. "The clear game plan that the bowlers can take 20 wickets; so enjoy this moment. I think it's a special feat to be a part of. For me, India are definitely leading the way," he added. ALSO READ | We played some outstanding cricket: Virat Kohli looks back at India's glorious Test run in 2021 The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side will now aim to add to Proteas' woes and win the second and penultimate Test, starting on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, to script history by achieving their maiden series triumph on South African soil. After winning two Test series in a row in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, Kohli-led India will aim to create history in South Africa this time around.

Team India by far the best in the world: Former SA pacer lauds Virat Kohli & Co. post Centurion Test win

On Thursday (December 30), South Africa's keeper-batsman Quinton De Kock announced his decision to retire from Test cricket. The move left many shocked as the 29-year-old batter remains one of the key players for the Proteas across formats. Amassing&nbsp;3300 runs at 38.82 in 54 Tests, de Kock decided to step aside from the red-ball format to spend more time with his growing family.

De Kock's move drew parallels with MS Dhoni, who had also shocked one and all with his sudden Test retirement decision on December 30, 2014. The former Indian captain shared his decision post India's 2014/15 Boxing Day Test versus Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. With India having already lost the series 2-0 after the drawn Test in Melbourne, with a encounter to go in the four-match series, Dhoni decided to call it quits.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-played-some-outstanding-cricket-virat-kohli-looks-back-at-indias-glorious-test-run-in-2021-441357">We played some outstanding cricket: Virat Kohli looks back at India's glorious Test run in 2021</a>

"One of India's greatest Test Captains under whose leadership India became the No. 1 team in the Test Rankings MS Dhoni, has decided to retire from Test Cricket citing the strain of playing all formats of Cricket," the BCCI said in a statement.

"MS Dhoni has chosen to retire from Test Cricket with immediate effect in order to concentrate on ODI and T20 formats. BCCI while respecting the decision of MS Dhoni to retire from Test Cricket, wishes to thank him for his enormous contribution to Test Cricket and the laurels that he has brought to India," it added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-rishabh-pant-goes-past-ms-dhoni-to-become-quickest-indian-keeper-to-100-dismissals-440741">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant goes past MS Dhoni to become quickest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals</a>

While Dhoni is known for his white-ball heroics, as an astute and tactical captain, finisher and power-hitter, the former keeper-batsman had plenty of highs in Tests as well; amassing 4,876 runs in 90 Tests at&nbsp;38.09 with a high-score of 224. The swashbuckling right-hander played several memorable knocks at home (double-ton versus Australia, twin centuries against Sri Lanka and a century versus the Proteas) whereas he played a vital role in India's draw versus England in the Lord's Test in 2007. In addition, Dhoni scored several half-centuries in England, New Zealand, Bangladesh, West Indies and South Africa whereas he smacked a memorable ton against Pakistan in the 2006 Faisalabad Test.&nbsp;

Dhoni accounted for 78 sixes and 294 dismissals in whites (most by any Indian keeper-batsman). Six years after his Test exit, the former Indian captain announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020 with 17,266 runs, 108 half-centuries, 16 tons, 829 dismissals overall.

On Thursday (December 30), South Africa's keeper-batsman Quinton De Kock announced his decision to retire from Test cricket. The move left many shocked as the 29-year-old batter remains one of the key players for the Proteas across formats.

On Thursday (December 30), South Africa's keeper-batsman Quinton De Kock announced his decision to retire from Test cricket. The move left many shocked as the 29-year-old batter remains one of the key players for the Proteas across formats. Amassing 3300 runs at 38.82 in 54 Tests, de Kock decided to step aside from the red-ball format to spend more time with his growing family. De Kock's move drew parallels with MS Dhoni, who had also shocked one and all with his sudden Test retirement decision on December 30, 2014. The former Indian captain shared his decision post India's 2014/15 Boxing Day Test versus Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. With India having already lost the series 2-0 after the drawn Test in Melbourne, with a encounter to go in the four-match series, Dhoni decided to call it quits. ALSO READ | We played some outstanding cricket: Virat Kohli looks back at India's glorious Test run in 2021 "One of India's greatest Test Captains under whose leadership India became the No. 1 team in the Test Rankings MS Dhoni, has decided to retire from Test Cricket citing the strain of playing all formats of Cricket," the BCCI said in a statement. "MS Dhoni has chosen to retire from Test Cricket with immediate effect in order to concentrate on ODI and T20 formats. BCCI while respecting the decision of MS Dhoni to retire from Test Cricket, wishes to thank him for his enormous contribution to Test Cricket and the laurels that he has brought to India," it added. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant goes past MS Dhoni to become quickest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals While Dhoni is known for his white-ball heroics, as an astute and tactical captain, finisher and power-hitter, the former keeper-batsman had plenty of highs in Tests as well; amassing 4,876 runs in 90 Tests at 38.09 with a high-score of 224. The swashbuckling right-hander played several memorable knocks at home (double-ton versus Australia, twin centuries against Sri Lanka and a century versus the Proteas) whereas he played a vital role in India's draw versus England in the Lord's Test in 2007. In addition, Dhoni scored several half-centuries in England, New Zealand, Bangladesh, West Indies and South Africa whereas he smacked a memorable ton against Pakistan in the 2006 Faisalabad Test. Dhoni accounted for 78 sixes and 294 dismissals in whites (most by any Indian keeper-batsman). Six years after his Test exit, the former Indian captain announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020 with 17,266 runs, 108 half-centuries, 16 tons, 829 dismissals overall.

THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni shocked one and all with sudden retirement from Test cricket in 2014

Team India beat South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test, of the three-match series, in their 2021/22 tour of the&nbsp;African nation. With this win, India achieved only their fourth Test victory in South Africa and their first at Centurion (SA's fortress since 2014). Earlier in the year, India had breached Australia's 32-year-long fortress, i.e. at The Gabba, Brisbane.

Thus, India had a glorious run in the longest format of the game in 2021. In the year, India came from behind and without many key players to beat Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under (their second Test series triumph in Australia in a row), beat England and New Zealand at home (3-1 and 1-0 respectively) and also achieved an unassailable 2-1 lead over Joe Root &amp; Co. in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom.

The only blip in India's Test run in 2021 came during the WTC final, where Kohli &amp; Co. lost the coveted title by 8 wickets. Hence, the 33-year-old Indian Test captain reviewed India's year in Tests with great pride.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-mohammed-shami-or-mohammed-siraj-aakash-chopra-names-indias-no-1-pacer-in-tests-441347">Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami or Mohammed Siraj? Aakash Chopra names India's No. 1 pacer in Tests</a>

"New Year is a very good time to look back and analyse how you played your cricket. And I think we played some outstanding cricket, not just this year, but over the last two three years, especially overseas. We are a side who are getting better and gaining more confidence with how much cricket we play. It feels amazing to be 1-0 up. Sets up wonderfully for the Wanderers," Kohli said on BCCI.tv.

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Scenes from Centurion 👌<a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ">https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ</a> goes behind the scenes post <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s historic win at SuperSport Park 🏟️🙌 
 
Full video coming up soon 📽️ - Stay tuned ⏳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/oKyGhm0MxF">pic.twitter.com/oKyGhm0MxF</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1476564857419825155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-plethora-of-records-achieved-by-virat-kohli-as-india-thrash-south-africa-in-centurion-441243">A look at plethora of records achieved by Virat Kohli as India thrash South Africa in Centurion</a>

"Test series in South Africa or in any place is not easy and Centurion is obviously the most difficult of them all. We ended up getting a result within four days which is a testimony to the fact that we have become the side which we are today and the strength of the squad was on full display. We were just looking for opportunities to win the game. That's how we play our cricket now. And given an opportunity at any given stage we will bounce back. It is a beautiful position to be in, to be 1-0 up away from home with the opposition under pressure in the second Test as well is a golden opportunity and I'm absolutely certain that all the players will be looking forward to it and we can wait for Jo'burg," he added.

The No. 1 ranked Indian Test team will now look to move ahead in a similar stead in the next year and hope to start 2022 with a bang by winning the second and penultimate Test versus Proteas; claiming their maiden Test series win in the African nation.

The second Test starts on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.

Team India beat South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test, of the three-match series, in their 2021/22 tour of the African nation. With this win, India achieved only their fourth Test victory in South Africa and their first at Centurion (SA's fortress since 2014).

Team India beat South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test, of the three-match series, in their 2021/22 tour of the African nation. With this win, India achieved only their fourth Test victory in South Africa and their first at Centurion (SA's fortress since 2014). Earlier in the year, India had breached Australia's 32-year-long fortress, i.e. at The Gabba, Brisbane. Thus, India had a glorious run in the longest format of the game in 2021. In the year, India came from behind and without many key players to beat Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under (their second Test series triumph in Australia in a row), beat England and New Zealand at home (3-1 and 1-0 respectively) and also achieved an unassailable 2-1 lead over Joe Root & Co. in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom. The only blip in India's Test run in 2021 came during the WTC final, where Kohli & Co. lost the coveted title by 8 wickets. Hence, the 33-year-old Indian Test captain reviewed India's year in Tests with great pride. ALSO READ | Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami or Mohammed Siraj? Aakash Chopra names India's No. 1 pacer in Tests "New Year is a very good time to look back and analyse how you played your cricket. And I think we played some outstanding cricket, not just this year, but over the last two three years, especially overseas. We are a side who are getting better and gaining more confidence with how much cricket we play. It feels amazing to be 1-0 up. Sets up wonderfully for the Wanderers," Kohli said on BCCI.tv. Scenes from Centurion 👌https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ goes behind the scenes post #TeamIndia's historic win at SuperSport Park 🏟️🙌 Full video coming up soon 📽️ - Stay tuned ⏳#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/oKyGhm0MxF — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2021 × ALSO READ | A look at plethora of records achieved by Virat Kohli as India thrash South Africa in Centurion "Test series in South Africa or in any place is not easy and Centurion is obviously the most difficult of them all. We ended up getting a result within four days which is a testimony to the fact that we have become the side which we are today and the strength of the squad was on full display. We were just looking for opportunities to win the game. That's how we play our cricket now. And given an opportunity at any given stage we will bounce back. It is a beautiful position to be in, to be 1-0 up away from home with the opposition under pressure in the second Test as well is a golden opportunity and I'm absolutely certain that all the players will be looking forward to it and we can wait for Jo'burg," he added. The No. 1 ranked Indian Test team will now look to move ahead in a similar stead in the next year and hope to start 2022 with a bang by winning the second and penultimate Test versus Proteas; claiming their maiden Test series win in the African nation. The second Test starts on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.

We played some outstanding cricket: Virat Kohli looks back at India's glorious Test run in 2021

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Setting up a target of 305 runs, Virat Kohli-led India had accounted for 4 wickets of the Proteas in the final innings at stumps on Day 4 and wrapped up the proceedings in the second session of the final day on Thursday.

With this, India achieved their first-ever Test win at Centurion, a venue where South Africa were unbeaten since 2014. Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. have taken a 1-0 lead and will be aiming to win their maiden Test series in the African nation when the second and penultimate Test commences on January 3, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.&nbsp;

Talking about the Centurion Test win, KL Rahul's 123 and Mayank Agarwal's 60 (both in the first innings) were the top-performers for India with the bat whereas the seamers led the charge with the red cherry. Jasprit Bumrah ended with five scalps in the mach, Mohammed Shami finished with an eight-wicket haul whereas Mohammed Siraj accounted for three wickets and Shardul Thakur took two wickets in the entire contest (taking 18 out of the 20 Proteas scalps). The likes of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav warmed the bench; depicting the solid bench strength of the Indian pace battery at present.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-plethora-of-records-achieved-by-virat-kohli-as-india-thrash-south-africa-in-centurion-441243">A look at plethora of records achieved by Virat Kohli as India thrash South Africa in Centurion</a>

After the Centurion Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra, in a video on his YouTube channel, reserved the title of 'special' for Bumrah. However, when it came to naming the No. 1 speedster in the Indian team taking all venues into account in whites, the former opener picked Shami.

"You look at Bumrah because he's special. But if we equalize every condition, India's number one Test pacer is Mohammad Shami, especially at this point in time. He asks questions with the delivery of his. He took five wickets against this team in Vishakhapatnam as well and now he took a fifer at Centurion," Chopra explained.

"We saw sideways movement from Ngidi, Rabada's pace and saw Bumrah's magic. But what about Shami? Shami doesn't bowl a magic delivery like Bumrah does. But he bowls on dangerous areas consistently and releases the ball with so close to the stumps. Who bowled the most deliveries on fourth stump? Who bowled the maximum deliveries that were hitting on top of off? - It was sensational Shami," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-lauds-india-bowlers-after-centurion-test-win-lavishes-huge-praise-on-mohammed-shami-441184">Virat Kohli lauds India bowlers after Centurion Test win, lavishes huge praise on Mohammed Shami</a>

"Jasprit Bumrah is a national asset. He's a treasure. We are so fortunate that our fast bowling unit has matured together. Bumrah took important wickets at important phases of the game. He set the tone by dismissing Dean Elgar in the very first over (first innings). Then, on Day 4 when there was a partnership building up for South Africa, he bowled a magical ball to van der Dussen. Then Keshav Maharaj came to the crease, and mind you, he bats well."

"Bumrah wonderfully bowled a yorker to dismiss him. He then took Elgar out again but with a different kind of a delivery. I mean he (Bumrah) is brilliant, man," the former cricketer opined.

India will now shift their focus to winning the second Test and claim their first-ever series on African soil. In 2006/07 tour of SA, India had taken a 1-0 lead under current head coach Rahul Dravid, however, lost the plot from thereon to lose 2-1. Hence, the national side will be eager for history to not repeat itself this time around.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Setting up a target of 305 runs, Virat Kohli-led India had accounted for 4 wickets of the Proteas in the final innings at stumps on Day 4 and wrapped up the proceedings in the second session of the final day on Thursday.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Setting up a target of 305 runs, Virat Kohli-led India had accounted for 4 wickets of the Proteas in the final innings at stumps on Day 4 and wrapped up the proceedings in the second session of the final day on Thursday. With this, India achieved their first-ever Test win at Centurion, a venue where South Africa were unbeaten since 2014. Thus, Kohli & Co. have taken a 1-0 lead and will be aiming to win their maiden Test series in the African nation when the second and penultimate Test commences on January 3, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. Talking about the Centurion Test win, KL Rahul's 123 and Mayank Agarwal's 60 (both in the first innings) were the top-performers for India with the bat whereas the seamers led the charge with the red cherry. Jasprit Bumrah ended with five scalps in the mach, Mohammed Shami finished with an eight-wicket haul whereas Mohammed Siraj accounted for three wickets and Shardul Thakur took two wickets in the entire contest (taking 18 out of the 20 Proteas scalps). The likes of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav warmed the bench; depicting the solid bench strength of the Indian pace battery at present. ALSO READ | A look at plethora of records achieved by Virat Kohli as India thrash South Africa in Centurion After the Centurion Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra, in a video on his YouTube channel, reserved the title of 'special' for Bumrah. However, when it came to naming the No. 1 speedster in the Indian team taking all venues into account in whites, the former opener picked Shami. "You look at Bumrah because he's special. But if we equalize every condition, India's number one Test pacer is Mohammad Shami, especially at this point in time. He asks questions with the delivery of his. He took five wickets against this team in Vishakhapatnam as well and now he took a fifer at Centurion," Chopra explained. "We saw sideways movement from Ngidi, Rabada's pace and saw Bumrah's magic. But what about Shami? Shami doesn't bowl a magic delivery like Bumrah does. But he bowls on dangerous areas consistently and releases the ball with so close to the stumps. Who bowled the most deliveries on fourth stump? Who bowled the maximum deliveries that were hitting on top of off? - It was sensational Shami," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli lauds India bowlers after Centurion Test win, lavishes huge praise on Mohammed Shami "Jasprit Bumrah is a national asset. He's a treasure. We are so fortunate that our fast bowling unit has matured together. Bumrah took important wickets at important phases of the game. He set the tone by dismissing Dean Elgar in the very first over (first innings). Then, on Day 4 when there was a partnership building up for South Africa, he bowled a magical ball to van der Dussen. Then Keshav Maharaj came to the crease, and mind you, he bats well." "Bumrah wonderfully bowled a yorker to dismiss him. He then took Elgar out again but with a different kind of a delivery. I mean he (Bumrah) is brilliant, man," the former cricketer opined. India will now shift their focus to winning the second Test and claim their first-ever series on African soil. In 2006/07 tour of SA, India had taken a 1-0 lead under current head coach Rahul Dravid, however, lost the plot from thereon to lose 2-1. Hence, the national side will be eager for history to not repeat itself this time around.

Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami or Mohammed Siraj? Aakash Chopra names India's No. 1 pacer in Tests

Harbhajan Singh, on December 24, drew curtains to an illustrious 23-year-long international career. The wily off-spinner was part of some of India's memorable wins, such as the 2001 home Tests versus Australia, 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, etc.

Harbhajan, known as The Turbanator, ended his international career with 417 Test scalps (fourth-most among Indians), 269 ODI dismissals and 25 wickets in the shortest format. Despite being part of the victorious 2011 ODI World Cup campaign, Bhajji's career never got any mileage from thereon (mainly due to R Ashwin's emergence). As a result, he only represented India in a handful of games (10 Tests and ODIs each) after the showpiece event. He wasn't part of 2013 Champions Trophy and 2015 ODI World Cup and warmed the bench throughout India's 2016 T20 WC campaign.

Hence, Bhajji inquired about his sudden omission from the national side by questioning then captain MS Dhoni but to no use, claimed the former spinner recently.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-retires-draws-curtains-to-glorious-23-year-long-international-career-439548">Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career</a>

"I tried to ask the captain [Dhoni] why, but I wasn’t given a reason. I realized there is no point in me asking for the reason for this treatment, and who is behind it because if you keep asking and no one replies, then it’s better to leave it," Bhajji told India&nbsp;TV.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-rishabh-pant-goes-past-ms-dhoni-to-become-quickest-indian-keeper-to-100-dismissals-440741">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant goes past MS Dhoni to become quickest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals</a>

Harbhajan continued to remain active in IPL despite the Team India snubbing. He ended his IPL career representing the likes of Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He finished with 150 scalps, fifth most in the overall list.

Harbhajan Singh, on December 24, drew curtains to an illustrious 23-year-long international career. The wily off-spinner was part of some of India's memorable wins, such as the 2001 home Tests versus Australia, 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, etc.

Harbhajan Singh, on December 24, drew curtains to an illustrious 23-year-long international career. The wily off-spinner was part of some of India's memorable wins, such as the 2001 home Tests versus Australia, 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, etc. Harbhajan, known as The Turbanator, ended his international career with 417 Test scalps (fourth-most among Indians), 269 ODI dismissals and 25 wickets in the shortest format. Despite being part of the victorious 2011 ODI World Cup campaign, Bhajji's career never got any mileage from thereon (mainly due to R Ashwin's emergence). As a result, he only represented India in a handful of games (10 Tests and ODIs each) after the showpiece event. He wasn't part of 2013 Champions Trophy and 2015 ODI World Cup and warmed the bench throughout India's 2016 T20 WC campaign. Hence, Bhajji inquired about his sudden omission from the national side by questioning then captain MS Dhoni but to no use, claimed the former spinner recently. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career "I tried to ask the captain [Dhoni] why, but I wasn’t given a reason. I realized there is no point in me asking for the reason for this treatment, and who is behind it because if you keep asking and no one replies, then it’s better to leave it," Bhajji told India TV. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant goes past MS Dhoni to become quickest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals Harbhajan continued to remain active in IPL despite the Team India snubbing. He ended his IPL career representing the likes of Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He finished with 150 scalps, fifth most in the overall list.

'Tried to ask MS Dhoni but got no reason ' - Harbhajan opens up on his sudden omission from Team India

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat South Africa by a whopping 113-run margin at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Resuming the fifth day with only 6 wickets needed to win, India wrapped up the proceedings in style. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami continued to chip in with regular wickets before R Ashwin joined the party and claimed the last two scalps after lunch.&nbsp;

The fifth day started with the Dean Elgar-led Proteas needing 211 more runs to win, after they ended Day 4 at 94-4 in pursuit of 305. Captain Elgar was trapped lbw for 77 by Bumrah before Quinton de Kock-Temba Bavuma steadied the ship for a while. As soon as De Kock chopped one onto the stumps, for the second time in a row, the collapse started for the home side who fell for 191 in 68 overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-to-play-the-shot-vikram-rathour-sheds-light-on-virat-kohlis-outside-off-struggles-441135">He has to play the shot: Vikram Rathour sheds light on Virat Kohli's outside-off struggles</a>

By virtue of their decimation of the Proteas in the three-match series opener, India also breached the hosts' fortress as Elgar &amp; Co. lost their first-ever Test at Centurion since 2014. Earlier, India had started the year by breaching Australia's fortress, i.e. at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

Talking about the first Test, Kohli-led India won the toss and rode on opener KL Rahul's 123 to post a competitive 327. In reply, SA only managed a paltry 197 as they conceded a whopping 130-run lead to Team India. Riding on their massive lead, India accelerated but only managed 174 in their second essay, setting up a 305-run target. Nonetheless, Bumrah and Shami's three-fers, Siraj and Ashwin's two wickets apiece ended the Proteas resistance for 191 on the final day. In SA's first innings, Shami had dented the hosts' progress with a stunning five-fer.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-jasprit-bumrah-attains-100-test-scalps-in-overseas-conditions-achieves-a-unique-feat-441111">India vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah attains 100 Test scalps in overseas conditions, achieves a unique feat</a>

For the unversed, this also became India's fourth win overall in the African nation, second under Kohli (in a row). Kohli also has seven victories as India's Test captain in SENA countries (most by any Indian or Asian skipper).&nbsp;

The second Test will commence at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg on January 3.

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat South Africa by a whopping 113-run margin at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Resuming the fifth day with only 6 wickets needed to win, India wrapped up the proceedings in style.

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat South Africa by a whopping 113-run margin at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Resuming the fifth day with only 6 wickets needed to win, India wrapped up the proceedings in style. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami continued to chip in with regular wickets before R Ashwin joined the party and claimed the last two scalps after lunch. The fifth day started with the Dean Elgar-led Proteas needing 211 more runs to win, after they ended Day 4 at 94-4 in pursuit of 305. Captain Elgar was trapped lbw for 77 by Bumrah before Quinton de Kock-Temba Bavuma steadied the ship for a while. As soon as De Kock chopped one onto the stumps, for the second time in a row, the collapse started for the home side who fell for 191 in 68 overs. ALSO READ | He has to play the shot: Vikram Rathour sheds light on Virat Kohli's outside-off struggles By virtue of their decimation of the Proteas in the three-match series opener, India also breached the hosts' fortress as Elgar & Co. lost their first-ever Test at Centurion since 2014. Earlier, India had started the year by breaching Australia's fortress, i.e. at The Gabba, Brisbane. Talking about the first Test, Kohli-led India won the toss and rode on opener KL Rahul's 123 to post a competitive 327. In reply, SA only managed a paltry 197 as they conceded a whopping 130-run lead to Team India. Riding on their massive lead, India accelerated but only managed 174 in their second essay, setting up a 305-run target. Nonetheless, Bumrah and Shami's three-fers, Siraj and Ashwin's two wickets apiece ended the Proteas resistance for 191 on the final day. In SA's first innings, Shami had dented the hosts' progress with a stunning five-fer. ALSO READ | India vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah attains 100 Test scalps in overseas conditions, achieves a unique feat For the unversed, this also became India's fourth win overall in the African nation, second under Kohli (in a row). Kohli also has seven victories as India's Test captain in SENA countries (most by any Indian or Asian skipper). The second Test will commence at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg on January 3.

1st Test: India beat South Africa by 113 runs to go 1-0 up, achieve maiden win at Centurion

Virat Kohli ended the year 2021 with the bat, on Wednesday (December 29), without scoring any international century. The right-hander's dry spell has continued for another year as it became the second successive calendar year where he ended without a triple-figure knock.&nbsp;

After falling for 35 in the first innings of India's first Test versus South Africa, at SuperSpork Park, Centurion, Kohli came out to bat with a positive intent in the side's second essay, after their 130-run first-innings lead. Nonetheless, the 33-year-old fell for, in a similar fashion by chasing a delivery outside off-stump. Thus, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on Kohli's knack of throwing his wicket by playing the deliveries on&nbsp;outside-off lines.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/centurion-test-gavaskar-opines-on-virat-kohlis-dismissal-as-indian-batter-ends-2021-without-a-century-441123">Centurion Test: Gavaskar opines on Virat Kohli's dismissal as Indian batter ends 2021 without a century</a>

"This shot brings him a lot of runs. So he has to play the shot. When to play the shot, under what situations, we need to have discussions,” Rathour said in the press conference after the 4th day's play in Centurion on Wednesday.

Rathour also addressed India's senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane's poor returns with the bat. "Pujara in past has played some important innings for us, you see these are challenging conditions, not many people have scored runs here. We need to be patient as long as they are trying their best, giving their best as a coaching unit we are fine. Are we getting impatient? Not at this stage, I think,” he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-jasprit-bumrah-attains-100-test-scalps-in-overseas-conditions-achieves-a-unique-feat-441111">India vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah attains 100 Test scalps in overseas conditions, achieves a unique feat</a>

For the unversed, Pujara only managed 16 runs in the Centurion Test -- with a golden duck and 16 -- whereas Rahane looked very good in both the outings before falling for 48 and 20 respectively.&nbsp;

At lunch on Day 5, India are only 3 wickets away from winning the first Test against Dean Elgar-led SA at Centurion. It will be India's first-ever win at the venue and fourth overall in the rainbow nation.

Virat Kohli ended the year 2021 with the bat, on Wednesday (December 29), without scoring any international century. The right-hander's dry spell has continued for another year as it became the second successive calendar year where he ended without a triple-figure knock.

Virat Kohli ended the year 2021 with the bat, on Wednesday (December 29), without scoring any international century. The right-hander's dry spell has continued for another year as it became the second successive calendar year where he ended without a triple-figure knock. After falling for 35 in the first innings of India's first Test versus South Africa, at SuperSpork Park, Centurion, Kohli came out to bat with a positive intent in the side's second essay, after their 130-run first-innings lead. Nonetheless, the 33-year-old fell for, in a similar fashion by chasing a delivery outside off-stump. Thus, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on Kohli's knack of throwing his wicket by playing the deliveries on outside-off lines. ALSO READ | Centurion Test: Gavaskar opines on Virat Kohli's dismissal as Indian batter ends 2021 without a century "This shot brings him a lot of runs. So he has to play the shot. When to play the shot, under what situations, we need to have discussions,” Rathour said in the press conference after the 4th day's play in Centurion on Wednesday. Rathour also addressed India's senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane's poor returns with the bat. "Pujara in past has played some important innings for us, you see these are challenging conditions, not many people have scored runs here. We need to be patient as long as they are trying their best, giving their best as a coaching unit we are fine. Are we getting impatient? Not at this stage, I think,” he said. ALSO READ | India vs SA: Jasprit Bumrah attains 100 Test scalps in overseas conditions, achieves a unique feat For the unversed, Pujara only managed 16 runs in the Centurion Test -- with a golden duck and 16 -- whereas Rahane looked very good in both the outings before falling for 48 and 20 respectively. At lunch on Day 5, India are only 3 wickets away from winning the first Test against Dean Elgar-led SA at Centurion. It will be India's first-ever win at the venue and fourth overall in the rainbow nation.

He has to play the shot: Vikram Rathour sheds light on Virat Kohli's outside-off struggles

India were 16 for one in their second innings at stumps on day three, leading South Africa by 146 runs in the first Test here on Tuesday. India bowled out South Africa for 197 in the final session with Mohammad Shami taking five wickets for 44 runs in 16 overs. The visitors had made 327 in their first innings. India batted for six overs in the final session and lost the wicket of Mayank Agarwal (4).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-md-shami-joins-elite-list-of-indian-pacers-with-200-wickets-during-day-3-in-centurion-440762">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Md Shami joins elite list of Indian pacers with 200 wickets during Day 3 in Centurion</a>

Brief Scores: India: 327 all out in 105.3 overs and 16/1 in 6 overs (K L Rahul batting 5; Marco Jansen 1/4). South Africa 1st innings: 197 all out in 62.3 overs (Quinton de Kock 34, Temba Bavuma 52; Jasprit Bumrah 2/16, Mohammad Shami 5/44).

India were 16 for one in their second innings at stumps on day three, leading South Africa by 146 runs in the first Test here on Tuesday. India bowled out South Africa for 197 in the final session with Mohammad Shami taking five wickets for 44 runs in 16 overs.

India were 16 for one in their second innings at stumps on day three, leading South Africa by 146 runs in the first Test here on Tuesday. India bowled out South Africa for 197 in the final session with Mohammad Shami taking five wickets for 44 runs in 16 overs. The visitors had made 327 in their first innings. India batted for six overs in the final session and lost the wicket of Mayank Agarwal (4). ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Md Shami joins elite list of Indian pacers with 200 wickets during Day 3 in Centurion Brief Scores: India: 327 all out in 105.3 overs and 16/1 in 6 overs (K L Rahul batting 5; Marco Jansen 1/4). South Africa 1st innings: 197 all out in 62.3 overs (Quinton de Kock 34, Temba Bavuma 52; Jasprit Bumrah 2/16, Mohammad Shami 5/44).

India vs SA, 1st Test: Visitors on top with Mohammed Shami's five-fer, lead by 146 runs on Day 3

Rishabh Pant created history on Day 3 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Tuesday (December 28). The 24-year-old youngster became the quickest Indian keeper to 100 Test dismissals, breaking his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni's record (who achieved the feat during his 36th Test appearance).

For the unversed, Pant reached the milestone with the departure of SA's limited-overs captain Temba Bavuma (52) to become the fastest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals. He, thus, attained the feat in his 26th Test (50th innings). Proteas' Quinton de Kock leads the overall list, who reached the landmark during his 22nd Test match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-players-who-can-push-him-out-of-xi-former-indian-all-rounder-opines-on-pujaras-struggles-440687">There are players who can push him out of XI: Former Indian all-rounder opines on Pujara's struggles</a>

Overall, Pant became the sixth Indian keeper to have 100, or more, dismissals in the purest format of the game; joining the likes of Dhoni, Syed Kirmani, Nayan Mongia, Kiran More and teammate Wriddhiman Saha. Early this year, Pant had also surpassed Dhoni to become the quickest Indian keeper-batsman to 1,000 runs in whites. He reached the landmark in his 27th innings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-md-siraj-pulls-off-ronaldos-iconic-celebration-after-van-der-dussens-wicket-in-centurion-test-440712">WATCH: Md. Siraj pulls off Ronaldo's iconic celebration after Van der Dussen's wicket in Centurion Test</a>

Pant has had a solid start to his Test career. Debuting during India's tour of England in 2018, the left-hander slammed a hundred in his debut series and already has a ton in Australia as well. During the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, the youngster contributed to India's 2-1 series triumph with two memorable half-centuries and has continued to score vital runs down the order for Virat Kohli &amp; Co. In addition, his keeping skills have improved to a great extend.&nbsp;

Pant will aim to cross Dhoni's overall tally of 294 dismissals in whites (most by an Indian) by the time he ends his Test career. While he has plenty to achieve as of now, the youngster promises a lot more in future with his talent, learning abilities and overall skills.

Rishabh Pant created history on Day 3 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Tuesday (December 28). The 24-year-old youngster became the quickest Indian keeper to 100 Test dismissals, breaking his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni's record (who achieved the feat during his 36th Test appearance).

Rishabh Pant created history on Day 3 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Tuesday (December 28). The 24-year-old youngster became the quickest Indian keeper to 100 Test dismissals, breaking his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni's record (who achieved the feat during his 36th Test appearance). For the unversed, Pant reached the milestone with the departure of SA's limited-overs captain Temba Bavuma (52) to become the fastest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals. He, thus, attained the feat in his 26th Test (50th innings). Proteas' Quinton de Kock leads the overall list, who reached the landmark during his 22nd Test match. ALSO READ | There are players who can push him out of XI: Former Indian all-rounder opines on Pujara's struggles Overall, Pant became the sixth Indian keeper to have 100, or more, dismissals in the purest format of the game; joining the likes of Dhoni, Syed Kirmani, Nayan Mongia, Kiran More and teammate Wriddhiman Saha. Early this year, Pant had also surpassed Dhoni to become the quickest Indian keeper-batsman to 1,000 runs in whites. He reached the landmark in his 27th innings. ALSO READ | WATCH: Md. Siraj pulls off Ronaldo's iconic celebration after Van der Dussen's wicket in Centurion Test Pant has had a solid start to his Test career. Debuting during India's tour of England in 2018, the left-hander slammed a hundred in his debut series and already has a ton in Australia as well. During the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, the youngster contributed to India's 2-1 series triumph with two memorable half-centuries and has continued to score vital runs down the order for Virat Kohli & Co. In addition, his keeping skills have improved to a great extend. Pant will aim to cross Dhoni's overall tally of 294 dismissals in whites (most by an Indian) by the time he ends his Test career. While he has plenty to achieve as of now, the youngster promises a lot more in future with his talent, learning abilities and overall skills.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant goes past MS Dhoni to become quickest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals

Team India posted 327 in the first innings of the ongoing Centurion Test versus South Africa in the Boxing Day encounter in the African nation. After Day 1 ended with India 272-3, the rest of the batting line-up didn't stand tall on Day 3 -- with the second day's play being washed out -- as the visitors fell for 327.&nbsp;

While KL Rahul top-scored with 123, Mayank Agarwal (60), Captain Virat Kohli (35) and Ajinkya Rahane (48) contributed as well. However, No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara didn't impress as he fell for a golden duck. This was Pujara's second golden duck and third instance of not being able to open his account in the calendar year. In addition, his last international ton (i.e. in Tests as he only plays the purest format) came in early 2019. Hence, the right-hander is facing the heat due to ordinary performances with the bat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pak-skipper-calls-for-senior-batters-omission-for-in-form-mayank-agarwal-on-rohits-test-return-440515">Ex-Pak skipper calls for senior batter's omission for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal on Rohit's Test return</a>

Now, former Indian all-rounder Madan Lal has opened up on Pujara's struggles and feels India have plenty of players to replace him, in the form of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, etc. "Pujara is struggling. There is no two ways about it. There are players in the squad who can push him out of the XI. At No. 3, even the captain needs a player you can hold the innings and get some runs at the same time. At times, Pujara gets stuck way too much. So clearly, he is struggling," Lal said on India Today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaughan-reacts-after-wasim-jaffer-hilariously-trolls-englishman-amid-joe-root-cos-ashes-horrors-440619">Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root &amp; Co.'s Ashes horrors</a>

Recently, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt also called for Pujara's omission if he continues to under-perform once Rohit Sharma returns to the Test line-up. Butt told on his Youtube channel, "He (Pujara) is not in form now. So you have to replace him when Rohit Sharma returns because you cannot drop an in-form player. And I was never in favour of that move. They left out Shreyas Iyer despite that performance (against New Zealand). India have always backed their senior players, which is good, but Pujara needs to score runs."&nbsp;

Pujara will look to score runs in India's second essay in the first Test and the remainder of the series to hold onto his spot amid widespread criticism.

Team India posted 327 in the first innings of the ongoing Centurion Test versus South Africa in the Boxing Day encounter in the African nation. After Day 1 ended with India 272-3, the rest of the batting line-up didn't stand tall on Day 3 -- with the second day's play being washed out -- as the visitors fell for 327.

Team India posted 327 in the first innings of the ongoing Centurion Test versus South Africa in the Boxing Day encounter in the African nation. After Day 1 ended with India 272-3, the rest of the batting line-up didn't stand tall on Day 3 -- with the second day's play being washed out -- as the visitors fell for 327. While KL Rahul top-scored with 123, Mayank Agarwal (60), Captain Virat Kohli (35) and Ajinkya Rahane (48) contributed as well. However, No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara didn't impress as he fell for a golden duck. This was Pujara's second golden duck and third instance of not being able to open his account in the calendar year. In addition, his last international ton (i.e. in Tests as he only plays the purest format) came in early 2019. Hence, the right-hander is facing the heat due to ordinary performances with the bat. ALSO READ | Ex-Pak skipper calls for senior batter's omission for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal on Rohit's Test return Now, former Indian all-rounder Madan Lal has opened up on Pujara's struggles and feels India have plenty of players to replace him, in the form of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, etc. "Pujara is struggling. There is no two ways about it. There are players in the squad who can push him out of the XI. At No. 3, even the captain needs a player you can hold the innings and get some runs at the same time. At times, Pujara gets stuck way too much. So clearly, he is struggling," Lal said on India Today. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors Recently, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt also called for Pujara's omission if he continues to under-perform once Rohit Sharma returns to the Test line-up. Butt told on his Youtube channel, "He (Pujara) is not in form now. So you have to replace him when Rohit Sharma returns because you cannot drop an in-form player. And I was never in favour of that move. They left out Shreyas Iyer despite that performance (against New Zealand). India have always backed their senior players, which is good, but Pujara needs to score runs." Pujara will look to score runs in India's second essay in the first Test and the remainder of the series to hold onto his spot amid widespread criticism.

There are players who can push him out of XI: Former Indian all-rounder opines on Pujara's struggles

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand.

The year 2022 and 2023 will see India compete in two ICC tournaments, in the form of the next edition of the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup, respectively. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted one area where Rohit Sharma-led Team India have to improve on to win the next two World Cups.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solid-bench-strength-ipl-2021-test-dominance-to-rahul-dravids-return-reliving-indias-2021-440649">Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021</a>

Gavaskar recalled India's historic 1983 World Cup triumph and wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "It was a squad of 14 players and one manager and we conquered the cricketing world. There were no field restrictions then, no limitations on the number of bouncers too and the red ball in English conditions which hardly stopped moving even after the shine was gone."

"That team were full of all-rounders and that is the key especially in limited overs cricket. Even the 2007 and 2011 teams had batsmen who could bowl and bowlers who were no bunnies with the bat. If India can find two all-rounders, then we will have a better chance in the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and in the 50 overs Cup at home in India in 2023."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-virat-kohli-been-soft-like-ms-dhoni-he-wouldnt-have-scored-these-many-runs-harbhajan-singh-440599">Had Virat Kohli been soft like MS Dhoni, he wouldn't have scored these many runs: Harbhajan Singh</a>

At present, India's premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is out of the scene due to injury concerns. The other options for Rohit &amp; Co. are in the form of Krunal Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Venkatesh Iyer, etc. Nonetheless, India will also hope for Hardik to recover soon and return in full flow to strengthen the national side in white-ball formats in the near future.&nbsp;

While India will look to end their ICC-title drought in the upcoming T20 and ODI WCs, they also have a chance to become the World Test champions if they win the ongoing second WTC cycle (which will conclude by early 2023).

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand.

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand. The year 2022 and 2023 will see India compete in two ICC tournaments, in the form of the next edition of the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup, respectively. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted one area where Rohit Sharma-led Team India have to improve on to win the next two World Cups. ALSO READ | Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021 Gavaskar recalled India's historic 1983 World Cup triumph and wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "It was a squad of 14 players and one manager and we conquered the cricketing world. There were no field restrictions then, no limitations on the number of bouncers too and the red ball in English conditions which hardly stopped moving even after the shine was gone." "That team were full of all-rounders and that is the key especially in limited overs cricket. Even the 2007 and 2011 teams had batsmen who could bowl and bowlers who were no bunnies with the bat. If India can find two all-rounders, then we will have a better chance in the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and in the 50 overs Cup at home in India in 2023." ALSO READ | Had Virat Kohli been soft like MS Dhoni, he wouldn't have scored these many runs: Harbhajan Singh At present, India's premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is out of the scene due to injury concerns. The other options for Rohit & Co. are in the form of Krunal Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Venkatesh Iyer, etc. Nonetheless, India will also hope for Hardik to recover soon and return in full flow to strengthen the national side in white-ball formats in the near future. While India will look to end their ICC-title drought in the upcoming T20 and ODI WCs, they also have a chance to become the World Test champions if they win the ongoing second WTC cycle (which will conclude by early 2023).

Sunil Gavaskar mentions one area where Team India need to work on to win next two World Cups

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation.&nbsp;

As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi.

Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-get-upset-when-his-name-was-not-in-the-xi-ashish-nehra-heaps-praise-on-young-india-pacer-440445">He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer</a>

Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

"You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra.

Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating.&nbsp;

Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation. As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi. Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH "You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra. Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating. Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away'

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017.

Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries.

At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-get-upset-when-his-name-was-not-in-the-xi-ashish-nehra-heaps-praise-on-young-india-pacer-440445">He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer</a>

Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up.

"And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win&nbsp;2-1.&nbsp;

Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017. Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries. At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to Star Sports and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up. "And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win 2-1. Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Gavaskar recalls Shastri's journey as coach, mentions biggest highlight of his 4-year stint with Team India

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122. While the visitors would have wanted to extend their dominance, rain played spoilsport as the entire day's play was hampered due to relentless rain showers.

Thus, Virat Kohli-led Indian team will have to accelerate after the morning session on Day 3 and hope for their bowlers to produce the goods with the ball to claim 20 wickets in the remainder of the series opener. India have stuck to their 5-bowlers strategy, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur.

Talking about Siraj, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has lauded the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- whom he has seen grow from strength to strength in the recent past. Nehra lauded Siraj for being injury-free so far and hailed his hunger for success.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old Siraj has had staggering success in whites following his debut in the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia last year. The speedster has accounted for 33 scalps in 11 games, being one of the top-performers for the side in away series in Australia and England. Hence, Nehra had words of praise for him after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Centurion Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

"He was with me at RCB when I was the coach. He also was in the team when I was at SunRisers Hyderabad. I always knew that he had the skills. Talking about the skillset, it also depends on the player... how he hones his skills and fitness levels.&nbsp;

He had the pace, swing, and an athletic body too. We see many players doing the rounds of the NCA and visiting the physios after struggling with fitness. But Siraj wasn't that sort of a player. He stepped into the IPL after playing Ranji and has never looked back," Nehra said on Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

He added, "Siraj has made the most of it. He's mentally strong as well and has that hunger to play. He used to get upset when his name was not there in the XI. When he was at RCB, he would eagerly wait to perform and get better with every match. That speaks volumes about his character."

Siraj surely has made a mark in his Test career and will like to perform in similar stead in the South Africa series. For the unversed, the No. 1 Test side India have a solid chance to win their maiden Test series in the African nation. Will Siraj-starrer India create history this time around in the rainbow nation?

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122.

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122. While the visitors would have wanted to extend their dominance, rain played spoilsport as the entire day's play was hampered due to relentless rain showers. Thus, Virat Kohli-led Indian team will have to accelerate after the morning session on Day 3 and hope for their bowlers to produce the goods with the ball to claim 20 wickets in the remainder of the series opener. India have stuck to their 5-bowlers strategy, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur. Talking about Siraj, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has lauded the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- whom he has seen grow from strength to strength in the recent past. Nehra lauded Siraj for being injury-free so far and hailed his hunger for success. The 27-year-old Siraj has had staggering success in whites following his debut in the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia last year. The speedster has accounted for 33 scalps in 11 games, being one of the top-performers for the side in away series in Australia and England. Hence, Nehra had words of praise for him after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Centurion Test. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA "He was with me at RCB when I was the coach. He also was in the team when I was at SunRisers Hyderabad. I always knew that he had the skills. Talking about the skillset, it also depends on the player... how he hones his skills and fitness levels. He had the pace, swing, and an athletic body too. We see many players doing the rounds of the NCA and visiting the physios after struggling with fitness. But Siraj wasn't that sort of a player. He stepped into the IPL after playing Ranji and has never looked back," Nehra said on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH He added, "Siraj has made the most of it. He's mentally strong as well and has that hunger to play. He used to get upset when his name was not there in the XI. When he was at RCB, he would eagerly wait to perform and get better with every match. That speaks volumes about his character." Siraj surely has made a mark in his Test career and will like to perform in similar stead in the South Africa series. For the unversed, the No. 1 Test side India have a solid chance to win their maiden Test series in the African nation. Will Siraj-starrer India create history this time around in the rainbow nation?

He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer

Virat Kohli-led Team India ended Day 1 of the Centurion Test versus South Africa being at the driver's seat. Riding on KL Rahul's 122 not out and fifty from Mayank Agarwal, India ended the day's play at 272 for the loss of 3 wickets. While Kohli looked good for his 94-ball 35, he once again missed out on a century as he failed to even cross the 50-run mark.&nbsp;

As the 33-year-old Kohli still remains away from his 71st international ton, he surpassed former Indian captain Mohammad Azhaurddin to top a unique list. Winning the toss at SuperSport Park, Centurion, Kohli&nbsp;achieved a huge milestone as he became the Indian captain with the most toss wins in Test cricket. Before the start of the first Test in South Africa, Kohli was at the top with Azharuddin but now has gone past him.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Kohli now has won 30 tosses as captain in the purest format of the game. He already is the most successful Indian Test captain, with 39 victories in 66 Tests. On the other hand, MS Dhoni follows suit at the second spot with 27 wins under his belt.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-say-something-to-the-boys-shastri-recalls-dhonis-test-retirement-and-how-it-shocked-team-india-440356">I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India</a>

Talking about the opening day's play, Rahul-Mayank's 117-run opening stand took India to a fine start. While the visitors were soon reduced to 117 for 2, Kohli-Rahul steadied the ship with a fine 82-run stand for the third-wicket before the Indian captain's departure. Rahane and newly-appointed vice-captain KL Rahul (in Rohit Sharma's absence) took India to 272 for 3 at stumps on the first day on December 26 (Sunday).&nbsp;

The second day's play, on Monday (December 27), has been affected due to rain showers with the entire first session being washed out.

Virat Kohli-led Team India ended Day 1 of the Centurion Test versus South Africa being at the driver's seat. Riding on KL Rahul's 122 not out and fifty from Mayank Agarwal, India ended the day's play at 272 for the loss of 3 wickets.

Virat Kohli-led Team India ended Day 1 of the Centurion Test versus South Africa being at the driver's seat. Riding on KL Rahul's 122 not out and fifty from Mayank Agarwal, India ended the day's play at 272 for the loss of 3 wickets. While Kohli looked good for his 94-ball 35, he once again missed out on a century as he failed to even cross the 50-run mark. As the 33-year-old Kohli still remains away from his 71st international ton, he surpassed former Indian captain Mohammad Azhaurddin to top a unique list. Winning the toss at SuperSport Park, Centurion, Kohli achieved a huge milestone as he became the Indian captain with the most toss wins in Test cricket. Before the start of the first Test in South Africa, Kohli was at the top with Azharuddin but now has gone past him. For the unversed, Kohli now has won 30 tosses as captain in the purest format of the game. He already is the most successful Indian Test captain, with 39 victories in 66 Tests. On the other hand, MS Dhoni follows suit at the second spot with 27 wins under his belt. ALSO READ | I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India Talking about the opening day's play, Rahul-Mayank's 117-run opening stand took India to a fine start. While the visitors were soon reduced to 117 for 2, Kohli-Rahul steadied the ship with a fine 82-run stand for the third-wicket before the Indian captain's departure. Rahane and newly-appointed vice-captain KL Rahul (in Rohit Sharma's absence) took India to 272 for 3 at stumps on the first day on December 26 (Sunday). The second day's play, on Monday (December 27), has been affected due to rain showers with the entire first session being washed out.

India vs SA: Virat Kohli goes past Mohammad Azharuddin in unique list in Centurion Test opening day

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.&nbsp;

Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format --&nbsp;the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia.&nbsp;

After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blessing-in-disguise-ravi-shastri-opens-up-on-bccis-decision-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-440298">'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain</a>

Reliving Dhoni's&nbsp;shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line."

"Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-scripted-a-fairytale-comeback-in-ipl-2021-440193">How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021</a>

Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year.

Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests. Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format -- the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia. After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode. ALSO READ | 'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain Reliving Dhoni's shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line." "Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added. ALSO READ | How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021 Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year. Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-been-an-impeccable-leader-ravi-shastri-praises-indian-test-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-439391">'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series</a>

According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri.

"I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play,"&nbsp;Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18.

"They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup,"&nbsp;the ex-India quick pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga.

Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change.

"If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man."

At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013. While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri. "I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play," Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18. "They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup," the ex-India quick pointed out. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga. Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change. "If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man." At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks.

The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohlis-relation-with-rahul-dravid-will-be-good-in-long-run-predicts-danish-kaneria-439563">Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria</a>

Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times.&nbsp;

"Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com

"Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him."

"I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif.&nbsp;

He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future.

It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks. The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI. ALSO READ | Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times. "Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com "Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him." "I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif. He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future. It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-retires-draws-curtains-to-glorious-23-year-long-international-career-439548">Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career</a>

By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run.

"It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview.

He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time."

"He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are."

It will be interesting to see how the relation&nbsp;between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run. "It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview. He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time." "He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained. ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are." It will be interesting to see how the relation between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria

Team India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced his international retirement on Friday (December 24). The 41-year-old has had a stellar run at the highest level and finally decided to call it quits, drawing curtains to a glorious 23-year-long career in international cricket.

Harbhajan tweeted saying, "All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. 
My heartfelt thank you Grateful"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. 
My heartfelt thank you Grateful .<a href="https://t.co/iD6WHU46MU">https://t.co/iD6WHU46MU</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1474302128311062533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/once-virat-kohli-said-shastri-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-indias-limited-overs-captain-439523">'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain</a>

Harbhajan shared a video along with his tweet and explained, "My journey from the streets of Jalandhar to the Indian team has been spectacular. I have never had the sort of motivation that I did when I was wearing the India jersey. But there comes a time when you have to take the tough decisions and move ahead. I have been willing to make an announcement for the past few years and have been waiting to share this moment with you.

Today, I am announcing my retirement from all forms of the game. Though informally, I had taken retirement before but couldn't announce it. I have not been playing active cricket for a while but due to commitments with KKR, I have wanted to stay with them. I had already decided to retire. Like every other cricketer, I wanted to say goodbye to this game in the Indian jersy but fate probably had something else in mind.

Whichever team I have played for, I have tried to help them finish at the top, be it Indian team, KKR, MI, CSK or the county sides."

Harbhajan ended as India's fourth-highest wicket-taker in Tests (417), also being the first-ever Indian to claim a hat-trick in the longest form of the game. In the white-ball formats, he accounted for 269 ODI and 25 T20I scalps. He was part of the national side's memorable 2007 T20 World Cup win and 2011 ODI World Cup triumph. He also played an integral role in India achieving the No. 1 rank for the first time in Test cricket in late 2009, under MS Dhoni's leadership.&nbsp;

Harbhajan also ended with 4 IPL trophies, playing for Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Overall, he featured in 163 IPL matches, ending with 150 wickets (fifth overall).

Team India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced his international retirement on Friday (December 24). The 41-year-old has had a stellar run at the highest level and finally decided to call it quits, drawing curtains to a glorious 23-year-long career in international cricket.

Team India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced his international retirement on Friday (December 24). The 41-year-old has had a stellar run at the highest level and finally decided to call it quits, drawing curtains to a glorious 23-year-long career in international cricket. Harbhajan tweeted saying, "All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. My heartfelt thank you Grateful" ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. My heartfelt thank you Grateful .https://t.co/iD6WHU46MU — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 24, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain Harbhajan shared a video along with his tweet and explained, "My journey from the streets of Jalandhar to the Indian team has been spectacular. I have never had the sort of motivation that I did when I was wearing the India jersey. But there comes a time when you have to take the tough decisions and move ahead. I have been willing to make an announcement for the past few years and have been waiting to share this moment with you. Today, I am announcing my retirement from all forms of the game. Though informally, I had taken retirement before but couldn't announce it. I have not been playing active cricket for a while but due to commitments with KKR, I have wanted to stay with them. I had already decided to retire. Like every other cricketer, I wanted to say goodbye to this game in the Indian jersy but fate probably had something else in mind. Whichever team I have played for, I have tried to help them finish at the top, be it Indian team, KKR, MI, CSK or the county sides." Harbhajan ended as India's fourth-highest wicket-taker in Tests (417), also being the first-ever Indian to claim a hat-trick in the longest form of the game. In the white-ball formats, he accounted for 269 ODI and 25 T20I scalps. He was part of the national side's memorable 2007 T20 World Cup win and 2011 ODI World Cup triumph. He also played an integral role in India achieving the No. 1 rank for the first time in Test cricket in late 2009, under MS Dhoni's leadership. Harbhajan also ended with 4 IPL trophies, playing for Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Overall, he featured in 163 IPL matches, ending with 150 wickets (fifth overall).

Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper.

For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-job-isnt-to-butter-everyones-toast-ravi-shastri-recalls-his-praise-for-kuldeep-which-crushed-r-ashwin-439515">My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin</a>

Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain."

On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure.

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly. ALSO READ | My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain." On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.

'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'.

Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-to-maintain-former-indian-cricketers-react-to-r-ashwins-remark-on-ravi-shastri-438965">'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri</a>

Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia."

"But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added.

Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-crushed-r-ashwin-recalls-ravi-shastris-huge-praise-for-kuldeep-yadav-during-2018-19-australia-tour-438692">Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour</a>

Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine &amp; Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts. Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'. Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | 'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia." "But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added. Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda." ALSO READ | Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine & Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked side have been exceptional while being on the road under Ravi Shastri and will look to carry on in similar stead under Rahul Dravid's coaching.&nbsp;

During Shastri's tenure, Kohli-led India become a daunting line-up while playing away from home. Under the former Indian all-rounder, India won two series in a row in Australia and gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held early this year) and demolished Sri Lanka and West Indies in their own backyard. Shastri has credited Kohli as a leader and has backed Team India to scale new heights in the African nation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-pant-aims-to-break-mentor-dhonis-unique-record-in-series-opener-in-centurion-439363">India vs SA, 1st Test: Pant aims to break mentor Dhoni's unique record in series opener in Centurion</a>

Shastri while speaking in an interview to Star Sports told "There couldn't have been a better time for team India to prove their mettle. Virat has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it. South Africa remains an unconquered bastion."

"Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing," Shastri mentioned.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-quality-indian-team-allan-donald-recalls-virat-kohlis-words-from-2018-ahead-of-centurion-test-439348">This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test</a>

India have a strong chance to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil with the Proteas not having superstar batters in their line-up whereas India's pace attack is one of the best at present. During their last Test series in SA in early 2018, Kohli &amp; Co. were competitive throughout the three Tests but lost 2-1. It will be interesting to see what the scoreline will be this time around.

The last two Tests will be played in Johannesburg&nbsp;and Cape Town before the action moves to the three ODIs, starting from mid-January 2022.

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked side have been exceptional while being on the road under Ravi Shastri and will look to carry on in similar stead under Rahul Dravid's coaching. During Shastri's tenure, Kohli-led India become a daunting line-up while playing away from home. Under the former Indian all-rounder, India won two series in a row in Australia and gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held early this year) and demolished Sri Lanka and West Indies in their own backyard. Shastri has credited Kohli as a leader and has backed Team India to scale new heights in the African nation. ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: Pant aims to break mentor Dhoni's unique record in series opener in Centurion Shastri while speaking in an interview to Star Sports told "There couldn't have been a better time for team India to prove their mettle. Virat has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it. South Africa remains an unconquered bastion." "Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing," Shastri mentioned. ALSO READ | This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test India have a strong chance to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil with the Proteas not having superstar batters in their line-up whereas India's pace attack is one of the best at present. During their last Test series in SA in early 2018, Kohli & Co. were competitive throughout the three Tests but lost 2-1. It will be interesting to see what the scoreline will be this time around. The last two Tests will be played in Johannesburg and Cape Town before the action moves to the three ODIs, starting from mid-January 2022.

'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za.

He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it."

Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack."

"For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-msk-prasad-picks-4-pacers-for-kohli-co-as-experienced-campaigner-misses-out-439277">India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli &amp; Co. as experienced campaigner misses out</a>

Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts."

It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year.&nbsp;

For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation. Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za. He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it." Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack." "For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch." ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli & Co. as experienced campaigner misses out Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts." It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year. For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test

Ahead of India's Tests vs South Africa, in the African nation, here's looking at Virat Kohli & Co.'s performances in away Tests since 2018.

Team India's impressive record in away Tests since 2018 before SA series

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