Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting confirmed that he was approached by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to replace Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, post the 2024 T20 World Cup. The T20 WC will be Dravid's last assignment as the senior men's team's coach -- having extended his tenure post last year's ODI WC. With the last date to apply for the top post being May 27, BCCI is looking at various big names to take over from Dravid.

Thus, Ponting confirmed that he was also approached during Delhi Capitals' (DC) run in IPL 2024 -- where they ended sixth. However, the two-time ODI WC-winning captain revealed that the job will 'not fit into his lifestyle' at the moment.

Ponting told ICC, "I've seen a lot of reports about it. Normally, these things pop up on social media before you even know about them, but there were a few little one-on-one conversations during the IPL, just to get a level of interest from me as to whether I would do it."

He further opined, "I'd love to be a senior coach of a national team, but with the other things that I have in my life and wanting to have a bit of time at home…everyone knows if you take a job working with the Indian team you can't be involved in an IPL team, so it would take that out of it as well."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-head-coach-job-mahela-jayawardene-not-approached-by-bcci-for-top-post-reports-724186">India head coach job: Mahela Jayawardene not approached by BCCI for top post - Reports</a>

Punter mentioned, "Also, a national head coach is a 10 or 11-month of the year job, and as much as I'd like to do it, it just doesn't fit into my lifestyle right now and the things that I really enjoy doing."

He added, "I've seen a few other names thrown about as well. Justin Langer's name got thrown in yesterday, Stephen Fleming’s name has been thrown about a little bit. Gautam Gambhir’s name has been thrown around a little bit the last couple of days as well. But I think it'd be unlikely for me just on the reasons that I've given there."

Thus, Ponting isn't keen to take up the job and is highly unlikely to apply for it as he isn't willing to give up as DC's head coach. Moreover, India coach job is highly exhausting, being with the team for 10-11 months, hence, the Aussie isn't interested in&nbsp;beeing away from his family for such a long time.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting confirmed that he was approached by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to replace Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, post the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting confirmed that he was approached by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to replace Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, post the 2024 T20 World Cup. The T20 WC will be Dravid's last assignment as the senior men's team's coach -- having extended his tenure post last year's ODI WC. With the last date to apply for the top post being May 27, BCCI is looking at various big names to take over from Dravid. Thus, Ponting confirmed that he was also approached during Delhi Capitals' (DC) run in IPL 2024 -- where they ended sixth. However, the two-time ODI WC-winning captain revealed that the job will 'not fit into his lifestyle' at the moment. Ponting told ICC, "I've seen a lot of reports about it. Normally, these things pop up on social media before you even know about them, but there were a few little one-on-one conversations during the IPL, just to get a level of interest from me as to whether I would do it." He further opined, "I'd love to be a senior coach of a national team, but with the other things that I have in my life and wanting to have a bit of time at home…everyone knows if you take a job working with the Indian team you can't be involved in an IPL team, so it would take that out of it as well." Also read: India head coach job: Mahela Jayawardene not approached by BCCI for top post - Reports Punter mentioned, "Also, a national head coach is a 10 or 11-month of the year job, and as much as I'd like to do it, it just doesn't fit into my lifestyle right now and the things that I really enjoy doing." He added, "I've seen a few other names thrown about as well. Justin Langer's name got thrown in yesterday, Stephen Fleming’s name has been thrown about a little bit. Gautam Gambhir’s name has been thrown around a little bit the last couple of days as well. But I think it'd be unlikely for me just on the reasons that I've given there." Thus, Ponting isn't keen to take up the job and is highly unlikely to apply for it as he isn't willing to give up as DC's head coach. Moreover, India coach job is highly exhausting, being with the team for 10-11 months, hence, the Aussie isn't interested in beeing away from his family for such a long time.

Ricky Ponting confirms being approached for India head coach job, says 'it doesn't fit into my lifestyle'

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format. Punter added that Kohli will be his 'first pick' for India in T20Is.

In recent times, Kohli has been a target of a lot of criticism regarding his strike-rate in T20Is (138.15). The 35-year-old even entered IPL 2024 with a lot of eyebrows on his strike rate, with many raising fingers at his ability to keep the tempo of the innings up right throughout (especially in the middle-overs). Nonetheless, the former Indian captain has silenced his critics in style in this year's IPL, being the highest run-getter with&nbsp;708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60.

Thus, Ponting slammed Kohli's critics. He told the ICC, "It's funny with Virat. I think people in India just always try to find a reason not to pick him or a reason why he's maybe not as good as some of those other guys in the T20 game. He (Kohli) is the first pick for me for India."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/security-threat-to-virat-kohli-prompts-rcb-to-cancel-practice-session-report-724256">Security threat to Virat Kohli prompts RCB to cancel practice session ahead of Eliminator: Report</a>

Punter added, "He can play his role at the top. And if you've got the right guys around him scoring (like) Suryakumar (Yadav), Rohit Sharma's going to have a high strike rate. These other guys can go in there and play their way."

Kohli returned to India's T20I setup early this year after a 14-month break. Given how he has fared in the IPL, the veteran looks well prepared to tackle the tricky and contrasting conditions and nature of the surface in West Indies and USA, the co-hosts for the upcoming T20 WC.

Rohit Sharma-led India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format. Punter added that Kohli will be his 'first pick' for India in T20Is. In recent times, Kohli has been a target of a lot of criticism regarding his strike-rate in T20Is (138.15). The 35-year-old even entered IPL 2024 with a lot of eyebrows on his strike rate, with many raising fingers at his ability to keep the tempo of the innings up right throughout (especially in the middle-overs). Nonetheless, the former Indian captain has silenced his critics in style in this year's IPL, being the highest run-getter with 708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60. Thus, Ponting slammed Kohli's critics. He told the ICC, "It's funny with Virat. I think people in India just always try to find a reason not to pick him or a reason why he's maybe not as good as some of those other guys in the T20 game. He (Kohli) is the first pick for me for India." Also read: Security threat to Virat Kohli prompts RCB to cancel practice session ahead of Eliminator: Report Punter added, "He can play his role at the top. And if you've got the right guys around him scoring (like) Suryakumar (Yadav), Rohit Sharma's going to have a high strike rate. These other guys can go in there and play their way." Kohli returned to India's T20I setup early this year after a 14-month break. Given how he has fared in the IPL, the veteran looks well prepared to tackle the tricky and contrasting conditions and nature of the surface in West Indies and USA, the co-hosts for the upcoming T20 WC. Rohit Sharma-led India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York.

Funny how people want him dropped from T20Is: Ponting silences Virat Kohli's critics before T20 World Cup

The buzz around senior Indian men's cricket team head coach is increasing day by day. While current coach Rahul Dravid has reportedly expressed his unwillingness to continue with the job, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) invited applications with a deadline of May 27. Since then, many high-profile names have been doing the rounds as having been approached by the board to take over from Dravid post the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup.

Sri Lankan legend Mahela Jayawardene's name also started doing the rounds for the head coach post, following ex-cricketers Stephen Fleming, Gautam Gambhir and Harbhajan Singh. However, as per a report in IANS news agency, Jayawardene&nbsp;"hasn't applied nor has been approached for the top job and is currently happy at the&nbsp; Mumbai Indians (MI) set-up."

Notably, Jayawardene is serving as MI's global head of performance. Under his coaching, Mumbai won the IPL thrice in 2017, 2019 and 2020.&nbsp;In addition, he is also in charge for the coaching and scouting of MI franchises in various global T20 leagues, such as&nbsp;the SA20 and ILT20.

Moreover, the former Lankan captain also served as a consultant for Sri Lanka men's team in their recent World Cup campaigns.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-keen-on-becoming-indias-head-coach-picks-samson-over-pant-at-t20-world-cup-723938">Harbhajan Singh keen on becoming India’s head coach; picks Samson over Pant for T20 World Cup</a>

Recently, even former Australian opener and coach Justin Langer's name was associated with the India coaching job. Langer, under whom Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) failed to qualify for IPL 2024 playoffs, however, ruled himself out of being in the reckoning.

<h2>'It would almost be the biggest job in cricket'</h2>

After LSG's campaign ended in this year's IPL, Langer said, "It would almost be the biggest job in cricket - being the head coach of the Indian cricket team. One, because of the huge volume of cricket, the huge expectation. It would be a great challenge. It would be great fun and it would be a wonderful opportunity to win ICC titles."

"But with all these things, the timing has got to be right. I did four or so years with the Australian cricket team. It is all encompassing. It is exhausting. Rahul Dravid will probably tell you the same thing and Ravi Shastri will probably tell you the same thing. The pressure on winning for the Indian team is massive. I'm sure the next person who gets the job will be really looking forward to the project," he added.

Dravid's last assignment as India coach is the forthcoming 2024 T20 WC, in West Indies and USA in June. Thus, BCCI is eager to finalise a name soon. Reportedly, the board is willing to offer the new coach a contract till the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The buzz around senior Indian men's cricket team head coach is increasing day by day. While current coach Rahul Dravid has reportedly expressed his unwillingness to continue with the job, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) invited applications with a deadline of May 27.

The buzz around senior Indian men's cricket team head coach is increasing day by day. While current coach Rahul Dravid has reportedly expressed his unwillingness to continue with the job, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) invited applications with a deadline of May 27. Since then, many high-profile names have been doing the rounds as having been approached by the board to take over from Dravid post the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. Sri Lankan legend Mahela Jayawardene's name also started doing the rounds for the head coach post, following ex-cricketers Stephen Fleming, Gautam Gambhir and Harbhajan Singh. However, as per a report in IANS news agency, Jayawardene "hasn't applied nor has been approached for the top job and is currently happy at the Mumbai Indians (MI) set-up." Notably, Jayawardene is serving as MI's global head of performance. Under his coaching, Mumbai won the IPL thrice in 2017, 2019 and 2020. In addition, he is also in charge for the coaching and scouting of MI franchises in various global T20 leagues, such as the SA20 and ILT20. Moreover, the former Lankan captain also served as a consultant for Sri Lanka men's team in their recent World Cup campaigns. Also read: Harbhajan Singh keen on becoming India’s head coach; picks Samson over Pant for T20 World Cup Recently, even former Australian opener and coach Justin Langer's name was associated with the India coaching job. Langer, under whom Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) failed to qualify for IPL 2024 playoffs, however, ruled himself out of being in the reckoning. 'It would almost be the biggest job in cricket' After LSG's campaign ended in this year's IPL, Langer said, "It would almost be the biggest job in cricket - being the head coach of the Indian cricket team. One, because of the huge volume of cricket, the huge expectation. It would be a great challenge. It would be great fun and it would be a wonderful opportunity to win ICC titles." "But with all these things, the timing has got to be right. I did four or so years with the Australian cricket team. It is all encompassing. It is exhausting. Rahul Dravid will probably tell you the same thing and Ravi Shastri will probably tell you the same thing. The pressure on winning for the Indian team is massive. I'm sure the next person who gets the job will be really looking forward to the project," he added. Dravid's last assignment as India coach is the forthcoming 2024 T20 WC, in West Indies and USA in June. Thus, BCCI is eager to finalise a name soon. Reportedly, the board is willing to offer the new coach a contract till the 2027 ODI World Cup.

India head coach job: Mahela Jayawardene not approached by BCCI for top post - Reports

Rohit Sharma-led India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA in June. The tournament kicks off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024&nbsp;concludes on May 26. India play their tournament-opener on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Meanwhile, three teams&nbsp;Pakistan, England and New Zealand have opted against playing any warm-up games.

On Thursday (May 16), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced a total of 16 warm-up matches along with the venues. None of these games will have international status and teams will be allowed to use all their 15 members.

Pakistan and England are set to be involved in a four-match T20I series, from May 22-30, whereas New Zealand also played a five-match series in Pakistan in late April. Hence, these three sides have opted against playing in the warm-up round.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the past, every team has played two warm-up matches before a men's ICC&nbsp;event. Nonetheless, the ICC explained the change in plans this time around.

The ICC said, "In a departure from the previous cycle, teams can now choose to play up to two warm-up matches, depending on their arrival time at the event."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youre-not-a-newbie-start-winning-games-for-india-gambhir-pushes-sanju-samson-to-utilise-t20-wc-chance-722197">‘You’re not a newbie, start winning games for India’: Gambhir pushes Sanju Samson to utilise T20 WC chance</a>

<h2>FULL FIXTURES OF&nbsp;T20 WORLD CUP 2024 WARM-UP GAMES</h2>

<h2>Monday 27 May</h2>

Canada vs Nepal, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Oman vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp; 
Namibia vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp;

Tuesday 28 May

Sri Lanka vs Netherlands, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida&nbsp; 
Bangladesh vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Australia vs Namibia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Wednesday 29 May

South Africa intra-squad, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida 
Afghanistan vs Oman, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Thursday 30 May

Nepal vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Scotland vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp; 
Netherlands vs Canada, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Namibia vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp; 
West Indies vs Australia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Friday 31 May

Ireland vs Sri Lanka, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida&nbsp; 
Scotland vs Afghanistan, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Saturday 1 June

Bangladesh vs India, Venue TBC USA

England enter the T20 WC as the defending champions, having won the last edition, in 2022 in Australia, with a win over Pakistan in the final.

Rohit Sharma-led India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA in June. The tournament kicks off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024 concludes on May 26.

Rohit Sharma-led India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA in June. The tournament kicks off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024 concludes on May 26. India play their tournament-opener on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Meanwhile, three teams Pakistan, England and New Zealand have opted against playing any warm-up games. On Thursday (May 16), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced a total of 16 warm-up matches along with the venues. None of these games will have international status and teams will be allowed to use all their 15 members. Pakistan and England are set to be involved in a four-match T20I series, from May 22-30, whereas New Zealand also played a five-match series in Pakistan in late April. Hence, these three sides have opted against playing in the warm-up round. In the past, every team has played two warm-up matches before a men's ICC event. Nonetheless, the ICC explained the change in plans this time around. The ICC said, "In a departure from the previous cycle, teams can now choose to play up to two warm-up matches, depending on their arrival time at the event." Also read: ‘You’re not a newbie, start winning games for India’: Gambhir pushes Sanju Samson to utilise T20 WC chance FULL FIXTURES OF T20 WORLD CUP 2024 WARM-UP GAMES Monday 27 May Canada vs Nepal, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Oman vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago Namibia vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago Tuesday 28 May Sri Lanka vs Netherlands, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida Bangladesh vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Australia vs Namibia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Wednesday 29 May South Africa intra-squad, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida Afghanistan vs Oman, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Thursday 30 May Nepal vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Scotland vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago Netherlands vs Canada, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Namibia vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago West Indies vs Australia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Friday 31 May Ireland vs Sri Lanka, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida Scotland vs Afghanistan, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Saturday 1 June Bangladesh vs India, Venue TBC USA England enter the T20 WC as the defending champions, having won the last edition, in 2022 in Australia, with a win over Pakistan in the final.

T20 World Cup: India to play Bangladesh in only warm-up tie, no games for Pakistan, England and NZ

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month. The current Indian skipper has managed only 349 runs in 13 games at an average of 29.08. Out of 349, he scored 105* in Mumbai Indians (MI)'s 20-run home loss versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) early in the tournament. Following his ton, he has struggled to get going, not even crossing the 40-run mark since then.

Moreover, Rohit has crossed the double-digit mark only twice in his last six outings for Hardik Pandya-led MI, who were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race this season. Speaking on Rohit's form, Ganguly said -- ahead of his side Delhi Capitals (DC) knockout clash versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in New Delhi on Tuesday (May 14) -- that Hitman is a 'big tournament player' who will do well in the upcoming T20 WC, in the West Indies and USA in June.

<h2>'Rohit plays well in big tournaments'</h2>

Talking to the reporters, Ganguly said, "India is a very good team. Rohit will play well in the World Cup. He plays well in big tournaments. At the big stage, he will be fine."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/strongest-contenders-to-lift-ipl-2024-trophy-harbhajan-singh-after-kkr-confirms-a-spot-in-qualifier-1-721295">'Strongest contenders to lift IPL 2024 trophy': Harbhajan Singh after KKR confirm spot in Qualifier 1</a>

Rohit has second-most runs by an Indian in the T20 WC history -- 963 in eight editions (after Virat Kohli's 1,143 -- the overall top run-getter). However, he hasn't dominated any of the previous editions. Nonetheless, he was in top gear in the last ICC event, i.e. the home ODI World Cup last year. Ending with 597 runs in 11 games, Rohit will be eager to replicate the same in the upcoming T20 WC.

Rohit will lead India in the mega event. Further, Ganguly has backed Kohli and Hitman to open for the Men in Blue. While Rohit is not in good touch, Kohli is the leading run-getter in IPL 2024 -- with 661 runs in 13 games, including 5 fifties and a ton.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month. The current Indian skipper has managed only 349 runs in 13 games at an average of 29.08. Out of 349, he scored 105* in Mumbai Indians (MI)'s 20-run home loss versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) early in the tournament. Following his ton, he has struggled to get going, not even crossing the 40-run mark since then. Moreover, Rohit has crossed the double-digit mark only twice in his last six outings for Hardik Pandya-led MI, who were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race this season. Speaking on Rohit's form, Ganguly said -- ahead of his side Delhi Capitals (DC) knockout clash versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in New Delhi on Tuesday (May 14) -- that Hitman is a 'big tournament player' who will do well in the upcoming T20 WC, in the West Indies and USA in June. 'Rohit plays well in big tournaments' Talking to the reporters, Ganguly said, "India is a very good team. Rohit will play well in the World Cup. He plays well in big tournaments. At the big stage, he will be fine." Also read: 'Strongest contenders to lift IPL 2024 trophy': Harbhajan Singh after KKR confirm spot in Qualifier 1 Rohit has second-most runs by an Indian in the T20 WC history -- 963 in eight editions (after Virat Kohli's 1,143 -- the overall top run-getter). However, he hasn't dominated any of the previous editions. Nonetheless, he was in top gear in the last ICC event, i.e. the home ODI World Cup last year. Ending with 597 runs in 11 games, Rohit will be eager to replicate the same in the upcoming T20 WC. Rohit will lead India in the mega event. Further, Ganguly has backed Kohli and Hitman to open for the Men in Blue. While Rohit is not in good touch, Kohli is the leading run-getter in IPL 2024 -- with 661 runs in 13 games, including 5 fifties and a ton.

‘Big tournament player’ Rohit Sharma will be fine in T20 WC, reckons ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The mega event kicks off in the West Indies and USA in June with India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. This will be Rohit's second successive T20 WC as the Indian captain. In the 2022 edition, India ended as semifinalists under Hitman's captaincy in the marquee event held in Australia.

As per a report carried out by Dainik Jagran, Rohit is likely to bid adieu to T20Is and the T20 WC could prove to be his last few appearances in the format. Meanwhile, the report further revealed that Hardik Pandya was picked in India's T20 WC squad not for his performances, which have been ordinary in IPL 2024, but for the fact that the BCCI is looking at him as the future T20I skipper (prompting the BCCI selectors to not only pick Hardik but name him Rohit's deputy in the squad).

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-unlikely-to-reapply-for-indias-head-coach-position-reports-720881">Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports</a>

While these are all reports, it will be interesting to see if any BCCI senior official or someone from the Indian team management reacts to all these rumours. In another report, it is believed that the BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit weren't in favour of including Hardik in the T20 WC squad. Hardik hasn't featured for India since his injury during the ODI WC at home last year. In IPL 2024, he marked his return to competitive cricket but the all-rounder has failed to make a strong impact with both bat and ball.&nbsp;

However, Agarkar and Rohit were pressured to include Hardik in the mix. While the report didn't mention what this pressure was and whom it came from, it is believed that it came from the upper brass within the BCCI who is looking at Hardik as the future Indian captain -- at least in T20Is.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The mega event kicks off in the West Indies and USA in June with India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. This will be Rohit's second successive T20 WC as the Indian captain. In the 2022 edition, India ended as semifinalists under Hitman's captaincy in the marquee event held in Australia. As per a report carried out by Dainik Jagran, Rohit is likely to bid adieu to T20Is and the T20 WC could prove to be his last few appearances in the format. Meanwhile, the report further revealed that Hardik Pandya was picked in India's T20 WC squad not for his performances, which have been ordinary in IPL 2024, but for the fact that the BCCI is looking at him as the future T20I skipper (prompting the BCCI selectors to not only pick Hardik but name him Rohit's deputy in the squad). Also read: Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports While these are all reports, it will be interesting to see if any BCCI senior official or someone from the Indian team management reacts to all these rumours. In another report, it is believed that the BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit weren't in favour of including Hardik in the T20 WC squad. Hardik hasn't featured for India since his injury during the ODI WC at home last year. In IPL 2024, he marked his return to competitive cricket but the all-rounder has failed to make a strong impact with both bat and ball. However, Agarkar and Rohit were pressured to include Hardik in the mix. While the report didn't mention what this pressure was and whom it came from, it is believed that it came from the upper brass within the BCCI who is looking at Hardik as the future Indian captain -- at least in T20Is.

Rohit set to retire from T20Is post T20 World Cup, Hardik added in India squad on ‘pressure’ - Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to release an advertisement for a new head coach for the senior men's team, as disclosed by the board secretary Jay Shah in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 8). It is to be noted that Rahul Dravid -- the current head coach -- accepted the offer to extend his original contract till June this year. Hence, his contract will expire after the end of India's campaign in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in West Indies and the USA.

<h2>'If Dravid wants to apply, he is free to do so'</h2>

"Rahul's tenure is only up to June. So if he wants to apply, he is free to do so," the BCCI secretary said. Meanwhile other members of the coaching staff -- such as batting, bowling, and fielding coaches -- will be decided after consultation with the new coach.

Notably, Shah did not rule out the possibility of recruiting a foreign coach and left the issue open-ended.

"We cannot determine whether the new coach will be Indian or foreign. It will be up to the CAC, and we are a global body," the BCCI official said, indicating that the board is not likely to consider different coaches for different formats, a system adopted by boards such as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in recent times.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-were-managing-his-workload-stephen-fleming-comments-on-ms-dhonis-status-in-csk-playing-xi-719838">IPL 2024: We're managing his workload, Stephen Fleming comments on MS Dhoni's status in CSK Playing XI</a>

Shah added, "That decision will also be made by the CAC. There are many all-format players, like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant, among others. Moreover, there is no precedent for such a situation in India."

The BCCI secretary has confirmed that the new coach will serve for a long term, for an initial period of three years at least.

Dravid took the coaching job in late 2021, succeeding Ravi Shastri.

Under him, India reached the WTC final in 2023 and the ODI World Cup final later that year. India also reached the semifinals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and will be desperate to end their ICC-trophy drought in the next edition of the marquee event.&nbsp;

Irrespective of his next move, Dravid will be eager to sign off his current term on a high, leading India to their second T20 WC triumph in the 2024 edition in June.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to release an advertisement for a new head coach for the senior men's team, as disclosed by the board secretary Jay Shah in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 8).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to release an advertisement for a new head coach for the senior men's team, as disclosed by the board secretary Jay Shah in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 8). It is to be noted that Rahul Dravid -- the current head coach -- accepted the offer to extend his original contract till June this year. Hence, his contract will expire after the end of India's campaign in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in West Indies and the USA. 'If Dravid wants to apply, he is free to do so' "Rahul's tenure is only up to June. So if he wants to apply, he is free to do so," the BCCI secretary said. Meanwhile other members of the coaching staff -- such as batting, bowling, and fielding coaches -- will be decided after consultation with the new coach. Notably, Shah did not rule out the possibility of recruiting a foreign coach and left the issue open-ended. "We cannot determine whether the new coach will be Indian or foreign. It will be up to the CAC, and we are a global body," the BCCI official said, indicating that the board is not likely to consider different coaches for different formats, a system adopted by boards such as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in recent times. Also read: IPL 2024: We're managing his workload, Stephen Fleming comments on MS Dhoni's status in CSK Playing XI Shah added, "That decision will also be made by the CAC. There are many all-format players, like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant, among others. Moreover, there is no precedent for such a situation in India." The BCCI secretary has confirmed that the new coach will serve for a long term, for an initial period of three years at least. Dravid took the coaching job in late 2021, succeeding Ravi Shastri. Under him, India reached the WTC final in 2023 and the ODI World Cup final later that year. India also reached the semifinals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and will be desperate to end their ICC-trophy drought in the next edition of the marquee event. Irrespective of his next move, Dravid will be eager to sign off his current term on a high, leading India to their second T20 WC triumph in the 2024 edition in June.

BCCI to release advertisement for new Team India coach as Rahul Dravid's extended tenure nears end

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished praise on Virat Kohli and labelled him as the best batter of this generation. Yuvraj further stated that the former Indian captain deserves to win a World Cup medal more than anyone else. Kohli is gearing up for India's upcoming campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, in West Indies and USA in June, where he will compete in the tournament for the sixth time.&nbsp;

Kohli has been in sensational form in T20 WC history, amassing 1,143 runs. The 35-year-old was adjudged Player of the Tournament in 2014 and 2016 as well as in the 2022 edition. However, he has never won the T20 WC as his first-ever appearance came in 2012, five years after India's championship win in the inaugural season in 2007. He came close to winning the ODI World Cup at home in&nbsp;2023 but India lost to Australia in the final. Kohli ended up with 765 runs -- most by any batter in a single edition.

<h2>'I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal'</h2>

Thus, Kohli remains India's biggest player, especially in mega-events, and Yuvraj has backed him to win another&nbsp;World Cup title soon. The former Indian all-rounder said in a chat with ICC, "The best batter of this generation, I feel, in all formats. And I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal. He has one. I'm sure he is not satisfied with one. I think he surely deserves that medal as well."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-lsg-boss-sanjeev-goenka-fumes-after-loss-vs-srh-animated-talk-with-kl-rahul-goes-viral-watch-719529">IPL 2024: LSG boss Sanjiv Goenka fumes after loss vs SRH, animated talk with KL Rahul goes viral - Watch</a>

Yuvraj further opined on Kohli's playing style and added, "I think he understands his game really well. He knows if he's there till the end, he is going to win the game for India and he has done that on some big occasions - against Australia in Mohali as well." He concluded, "Once he had the confidence of chasing and knowing the situation, he knows how to bat in these situations, knows which bowlers to attack, which bowlers to take singles off, when to attack again, handle the pressure and knows when to change his game."

Kohli-starrer Indian team will begin their T20 WC campaign on June 5, where they face Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and the USA.&nbsp;

India squad for T20 WC 2024:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished praise on Virat Kohli and labelled him as the best batter of this generation. Yuvraj further stated that the former Indian captain deserves to win a World Cup medal more than anyone else.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished praise on Virat Kohli and labelled him as the best batter of this generation. Yuvraj further stated that the former Indian captain deserves to win a World Cup medal more than anyone else. Kohli is gearing up for India's upcoming campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, in West Indies and USA in June, where he will compete in the tournament for the sixth time. Kohli has been in sensational form in T20 WC history, amassing 1,143 runs. The 35-year-old was adjudged Player of the Tournament in 2014 and 2016 as well as in the 2022 edition. However, he has never won the T20 WC as his first-ever appearance came in 2012, five years after India's championship win in the inaugural season in 2007. He came close to winning the ODI World Cup at home in 2023 but India lost to Australia in the final. Kohli ended up with 765 runs -- most by any batter in a single edition. 'I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal' Thus, Kohli remains India's biggest player, especially in mega-events, and Yuvraj has backed him to win another World Cup title soon. The former Indian all-rounder said in a chat with ICC, "The best batter of this generation, I feel, in all formats. And I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal. He has one. I'm sure he is not satisfied with one. I think he surely deserves that medal as well." Also read: IPL 2024: LSG boss Sanjiv Goenka fumes after loss vs SRH, animated talk with KL Rahul goes viral - Watch Yuvraj further opined on Kohli's playing style and added, "I think he understands his game really well. He knows if he's there till the end, he is going to win the game for India and he has done that on some big occasions - against Australia in Mohali as well." He concluded, "Once he had the confidence of chasing and knowing the situation, he knows how to bat in these situations, knows which bowlers to attack, which bowlers to take singles off, when to attack again, handle the pressure and knows when to change his game." Kohli-starrer Indian team will begin their T20 WC campaign on June 5, where they face Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and the USA. India squad for T20 WC 2024: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Virat Kohli is best batter of this generation, deserves World Cup medal - Yuvraj Singh lauds Indian star

Former Indian chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee for picking out-of-form Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's 15-man T20 World Cup squad. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI announced India's squad which features Rohit Sharma as the captain along with regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, etc.

Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson were also named in the main squad with Gill, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed and Rinku Singh part of&nbsp;the reserves list. This has not been well received by Srikkanth -- India's 1983 World Cup-winning member -- as he feels Gill is completely out of form in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, contrary to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Gaikwad.

So far, Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Gill has 320 runs in 10 games at an average of&nbsp;35.56. Meanwhile, Gaikwad is the top run-getter with 509 runs -- at 63.63 and a strike-rate of&nbsp;146.68 with 4 fifties and a hundred. Thus, Srikkanth feels it wasn't fair to overlook the CSK captain's purple patch and claimed that&nbsp;selection is 'all about favouritism'.

<h2>'Gill is selectors' delight, team selection is all about favouritism'</h2>

Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel 'Cheeky Chekka', "Shubman Gill is totally out of form, but why he's selected in the team. There's no doubt that Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a place. He scored more than 500 runs in 17 innings. Also he scored a century against Australia. Shubman Gill is selectors' delight. He gets chance even if he fails. He finds place even if he fails in Test, ODIs and T20s.There's too much of favoritism in selection. The team selection is all about favouritism."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-youve-made-him-a-scapegoat-former-indian-cricketer-blasts-bcci-for-rinku-singhs-exclusion-717014">‘You’ve made him a scapegoat,’ former Indian cricketer blasts BCCI for Rinku Singh’s exclusion from WC squad</a>

Srikkanth even slammed the selectors for not including Rinku in the main squad, despite a strike-rate of 176.23 in 15 T20Is.&nbsp;

In this regard, he added, "I am not at all happy. C'mon all of you. Rinku Singh has been spoken about all over the world. He has performed in each and every opportunity he has got. How can you drop Rinku Singh? You drop anyone else, it doesn't matter. In my view, Rinku Singh should have been there, even if that meant you had to drop Yashasvi Jaiswal."

India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada and begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5, in New York.

India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024:

Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah.

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Former Indian chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee for picking out-of-form Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's 15-man T20 World Cup squad.

Former Indian chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee for picking out-of-form Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's 15-man T20 World Cup squad. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI announced India's squad which features Rohit Sharma as the captain along with regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson were also named in the main squad with Gill, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed and Rinku Singh part of the reserves list. This has not been well received by Srikkanth -- India's 1983 World Cup-winning member -- as he feels Gill is completely out of form in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, contrary to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Gaikwad. So far, Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Gill has 320 runs in 10 games at an average of 35.56. Meanwhile, Gaikwad is the top run-getter with 509 runs -- at 63.63 and a strike-rate of 146.68 with 4 fifties and a hundred. Thus, Srikkanth feels it wasn't fair to overlook the CSK captain's purple patch and claimed that selection is 'all about favouritism'. 'Gill is selectors' delight, team selection is all about favouritism' Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel 'Cheeky Chekka', "Shubman Gill is totally out of form, but why he's selected in the team. There's no doubt that Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a place. He scored more than 500 runs in 17 innings. Also he scored a century against Australia. Shubman Gill is selectors' delight. He gets chance even if he fails. He finds place even if he fails in Test, ODIs and T20s.There's too much of favoritism in selection. The team selection is all about favouritism." Also read: ‘You’ve made him a scapegoat,’ former Indian cricketer blasts BCCI for Rinku Singh’s exclusion from WC squad Srikkanth even slammed the selectors for not including Rinku in the main squad, despite a strike-rate of 176.23 in 15 T20Is. In this regard, he added, "I am not at all happy. C'mon all of you. Rinku Singh has been spoken about all over the world. He has performed in each and every opportunity he has got. How can you drop Rinku Singh? You drop anyone else, it doesn't matter. In my view, Rinku Singh should have been there, even if that meant you had to drop Yashasvi Jaiswal." India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada and begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5, in New York. India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

T20 WC: Srikkanth SLAMS BCCI for picking Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad, says 'it is all about favouritism'

Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has named India favourites for the 2024 T20 World Cup&nbsp;to&nbsp;be played in the West Indies and the USA in June. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, named India's 15-man squad which saw the return of Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant with Sanju Samson also getting a look-in. Meanwhile, Shivam Dube also got included whereas&nbsp;KL Rahul was dropped.

Rinku Singh, who has been India's finisher in the format in the recent past, was not part of the main squad but has been named in the reserves list. Speaking on Rohit Sharma-led India&nbsp;squad, Sangakkara -- who is currently serving as Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach in IPL 2024 -- lauded the squad and made a big claim.

Sanga, ahead of RR's away game versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (May 2), said in Hyderabad, "It's (India) an extremely strong squad. They've got their batting covered, they've got their all-rounders in. They've got very high-quality spin and they've got very good combinations that they can play."

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Speaking on India's team combination, Sanga elaborated, "Knowing the conditions there, I'm sure Rahul (Dravid) and Rohit (Sharma) have a good idea of what the squad should be to play the cricket they want in the World Cup. And they'll be having two or three different combinations, depending on whether they want a deeper batting line-up or more strength in their bowling. But it's a really well-balanced squad, a very strong squad and India's always been very strong in international tournaments."

India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Canada and Scotland. They begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5 at the&nbsp;Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York.

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has named India favourites for the 2024 T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA in June. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, named India's 15-man squad which saw the return of Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant with Sanju Samson also getting a look-in.

Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has named India favourites for the 2024 T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA in June. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, named India's 15-man squad which saw the return of Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant with Sanju Samson also getting a look-in. Meanwhile, Shivam Dube also got included whereas KL Rahul was dropped. Rinku Singh, who has been India's finisher in the format in the recent past, was not part of the main squad but has been named in the reserves list. Speaking on Rohit Sharma-led India squad, Sangakkara -- who is currently serving as Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach in IPL 2024 -- lauded the squad and made a big claim. Sanga, ahead of RR's away game versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (May 2), said in Hyderabad, "It's (India) an extremely strong squad. They've got their batting covered, they've got their all-rounders in. They've got very high-quality spin and they've got very good combinations that they can play." Also read: T20 World Cup: 'If captain tells...,' Shivam Dube reveals chat with Rohit in January gave selection indication Speaking on India's team combination, Sanga elaborated, "Knowing the conditions there, I'm sure Rahul (Dravid) and Rohit (Sharma) have a good idea of what the squad should be to play the cricket they want in the World Cup. And they'll be having two or three different combinations, depending on whether they want a deeper batting line-up or more strength in their bowling. But it's a really well-balanced squad, a very strong squad and India's always been very strong in international tournaments." India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Canada and Scotland. They begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

India favourites for T20 World Cup 2024, says Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara

India's legendary batter Krishnamachari Srikkanth has backed the star duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open for the national side in the upcoming T20 World Cup as he reckons they are best suited for the role.&nbsp;With the Indian team for the T20 World Cup&nbsp;set to&nbsp;be&nbsp; announced&nbsp;anytime, it will be interesting whether Virat-Rohit will open for India even as&nbsp;there are question marks&nbsp;on&nbsp;the selection of a few players&nbsp;including&nbsp;Rishabh Pant and Abhishek Sharma.

<h2>Srikkanth backs Virat-Rohit to open</h2>

“Yashasvi Jaiswal was a strong contender in my team, but as of now, it’s going to be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma who will open the innings for me in the T20 World Cup. Because I will have to look at the balance, who’s going to come at No. 3, who’s going to bat at No. 4, what is the impact you want to create, you need to take all those things into account,” Shrikant said while speaking to Star Sports.

With little over a month to go for the start of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies, the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar&nbsp;is likely&nbsp;to&nbsp;announce the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup&nbsp;in the next few days. The selection panel is keeping a close eye on a few players with a prospect of them travelling with the national side.

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The likes of&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to be the untouchables in the side, with them guaranteed to&nbsp;travel if they don’t pick any injury.&nbsp;The likes of&nbsp;Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul will also be hoping to get the nod in the squad if they perform well in the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.

The&nbsp;interesting&nbsp;choice in the side remains the selection of Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, with the former already set for a place in the side.&nbsp;Karthik’s selection will be an interesting&nbsp; one&nbsp;considering&nbsp;he is in top form for struggling Royal Challengers Bengaluru and could&nbsp;be given&nbsp;a wildcard entry into the side.

India's legendary batter Krishnamachari Srikkanth has backed the star duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open for the national side in the upcoming T20 World Cup as he reckons they are best suited for the role.

India's legendary batter Krishnamachari Srikkanth has backed the star duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open for the national side in the upcoming T20 World Cup as he reckons they are best suited for the role. With the Indian team for the T20 World Cup set to be announced anytime, it will be interesting whether Virat-Rohit will open for India even as there are question marks on the selection of a few players including Rishabh Pant and Abhishek Sharma. Srikkanth backs Virat-Rohit to open “Yashasvi Jaiswal was a strong contender in my team, but as of now, it’s going to be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma who will open the innings for me in the T20 World Cup. Because I will have to look at the balance, who’s going to come at No. 3, who’s going to bat at No. 4, what is the impact you want to create, you need to take all those things into account,” Shrikant said while speaking to Star Sports. With little over a month to go for the start of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies, the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar is likely to announce the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup in the next few days. The selection panel is keeping a close eye on a few players with a prospect of them travelling with the national side. ALSO READ | Premier League: 'It is abuse,' Manchester United's Rashford hits out at criticism The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to be the untouchables in the side, with them guaranteed to travel if they don’t pick any injury. The likes of Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul will also be hoping to get the nod in the squad if they perform well in the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. The interesting choice in the side remains the selection of Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, with the former already set for a place in the side. Karthik’s selection will be an interesting one considering he is in top form for struggling Royal Challengers Bengaluru and could be given a wildcard entry into the side.

T20 World Cup 2024: Legendary batter backs Virat-Rohit to open for Team India

Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in match 40 of the IPL 2024 edition on Wednesday (April 24), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bowl first, Shubman Gill-led GT were at the receiving end as Rishabh Pant top-scored with a brilliant 88* along with Axar Patel's 43-ball 66. In reply, Gujarat fought hard -- courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha's 39, Sai Sudharsan's 65, David Miller's 55 and Rashid Khan's 21* -- but ended with 220/8. During the high-scoring affair, Kuldeep Yadav once again made a mark with 2 for 29. Even in DC's last game, where Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) posted 266/7 in the national capital, the wily spinner&nbsp;claimed four scalps.

As a result, Kuldeep is among the leading wicket-takers with 12 wickets from six games. He is fourth in the list of most wickets in the ongoing edition, at an economy rate of 7.62. Thus, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels that the wrist spinner is now a certainty in India's T20 World Cup squad, which is set to be announced soon. The mega event kicks off in West Indies and USA in June.

Manjrekar feels Kuldeep is comfortable with taking up the responsibility in bowling the tough overs and providing key breakthroughs. Thus, he should be the second&nbsp;spinner after Ravindra Jadeja in India's T20 WC squad.&nbsp;

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Yes. And this is perhaps Kuldeep Yadav at his peak with regards to his skills, his confidence. You can see now he's out there like a Bumrah or Chahal at his peak. He is commanding that kind of respect. He looks comfortable with the responsibility and champions, you know, those breaks and those moments that you are seeking at the right time."

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"Last over today (against GT), DC wanted a wicket. They got the wicket of Tewtia there (in the 16th over) and just seized the game. So this is where Kuldeep has now become a champion bowler and he is somebody I mean that we should pencil down. Ravindra Jadeja will come in as a left-arm spinner batter and Kuldeep the second spinner," Manjrekar added.

Kuldeep-starrer DC have moved to the sixth spot with eight&nbsp;points from nine games. They will now lock horns with five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) at their home ground&nbsp;on Saturday (April 27).

&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in match 40 of the IPL 2024 edition on Wednesday (April 24), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in match 40 of the IPL 2024 edition on Wednesday (April 24), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bowl first, Shubman Gill-led GT were at the receiving end as Rishabh Pant top-scored with a brilliant 88* along with Axar Patel's 43-ball 66. In reply, Gujarat fought hard -- courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha's 39, Sai Sudharsan's 65, David Miller's 55 and Rashid Khan's 21* -- but ended with 220/8. During the high-scoring affair, Kuldeep Yadav once again made a mark with 2 for 29. Even in DC's last game, where Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) posted 266/7 in the national capital, the wily spinner claimed four scalps. As a result, Kuldeep is among the leading wicket-takers with 12 wickets from six games. He is fourth in the list of most wickets in the ongoing edition, at an economy rate of 7.62. Thus, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels that the wrist spinner is now a certainty in India's T20 World Cup squad, which is set to be announced soon. The mega event kicks off in West Indies and USA in June. Manjrekar feels Kuldeep is comfortable with taking up the responsibility in bowling the tough overs and providing key breakthroughs. Thus, he should be the second spinner after Ravindra Jadeja in India's T20 WC squad. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Yes. And this is perhaps Kuldeep Yadav at his peak with regards to his skills, his confidence. You can see now he's out there like a Bumrah or Chahal at his peak. He is commanding that kind of respect. He looks comfortable with the responsibility and champions, you know, those breaks and those moments that you are seeking at the right time." Also read: DC vs GT: After a brilliant 88*, T20 WC contender Rishabh Pant says he is relishing 'every hour on field' "Last over today (against GT), DC wanted a wicket. They got the wicket of Tewtia there (in the 16th over) and just seized the game. So this is where Kuldeep has now become a champion bowler and he is somebody I mean that we should pencil down. Ravindra Jadeja will come in as a left-arm spinner batter and Kuldeep the second spinner," Manjrekar added. Kuldeep-starrer DC have moved to the sixth spot with eight points from nine games. They will now lock horns with five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) at their home ground on Saturday (April 27).

DC vs GT: 'Champion' Kuldeep Yadav a certainty for T20 World Cup - Former player Manjrekar's BOLD claim

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or&nbsp;by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA. Sehwag picked his playing XI, with some glaring omissions.

Speaking on Club Praire Podcast alongside former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag's playing XI didn't comprise Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson. The legendary Indian opener opted between Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh as the lower middle order batter whereas also snubbed Arshdeep Singh. Instead of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer, the ex-Indian opener picked Sandeep Sharma -- who has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 38, on Monday (April 22), Sandeep starred in RR's nine-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI), in Jaipur, courtesy of a brilliant 5 for 18.&nbsp;

Virender Sehwag's Playing XI for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Sandeep Sharma.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-needed-to-be-braver-lsg-captain-rahul-explains-reason-behind-promoting-stoinis-vs-csk-714538">IPL 2024: 'We needed to be braver' - LSG captain Rahul explains reason behind promoting Stoinis vs CSK</a>

Speaking on Hardik, Sehwag mentioned that the star all-rounder will make it to India's final squad, however, opted against including him in the final XI due to his poor run in IPL 2024. Hardik has been unimpressive as a leader, for MI, and not created much impact with both bat and ball. Further, Sehwag's spin bowling unit comprised Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja with no room for Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Both have been impressive in IPL 2024.

As per reports, India's T20 WC squad is expected to be announced around April 28.&nbsp;

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA. Sehwag picked his playing XI, with some glaring omissions. Speaking on Club Praire Podcast alongside former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag's playing XI didn't comprise Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson. The legendary Indian opener opted between Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh as the lower middle order batter whereas also snubbed Arshdeep Singh. Instead of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer, the ex-Indian opener picked Sandeep Sharma -- who has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 38, on Monday (April 22), Sandeep starred in RR's nine-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI), in Jaipur, courtesy of a brilliant 5 for 18. Virender Sehwag's Playing XI for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Sandeep Sharma. Also read: IPL 2024: 'We needed to be braver' - LSG captain Rahul explains reason behind promoting Stoinis vs CSK Speaking on Hardik, Sehwag mentioned that the star all-rounder will make it to India's final squad, however, opted against including him in the final XI due to his poor run in IPL 2024. Hardik has been unimpressive as a leader, for MI, and not created much impact with both bat and ball. Further, Sehwag's spin bowling unit comprised Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja with no room for Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Both have been impressive in IPL 2024. As per reports, India's T20 WC squad is expected to be announced around April 28.

T20 World Cup: No Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson as Virender Sehwag names his playing XI for India

After Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets, in chase of 180, during match 38 of IPL 2024, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh lavished huge praise on Sanju Samson and feels he should be part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad. The squad is set to be announced by the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee by end of this month. The mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, in West Indies and USA on June 1. Further, Harbhajan also made a bold claim, stating that Samson should be groomed as India's next T20I captain.&nbsp;

Harbhajan took to X, formely Twitter, and wrote, “Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent. Form is temporary @ybj_19 and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keeper batsman. @IamSanjuSamson should walk in to the Indian team for T20 world cup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for India after Rohit . koi shak??? (any doubts)."

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Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent . Form is temporary <a href="https://twitter.com/ybj_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ybj_19</a> and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keepar batsman . <a href="https://twitter.com/IamSanjuSamson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamSanjuSamson</a> should walks in to the Indian team for T20 worldcup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for india after rohit . koi…
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1782478603248337359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-poor-captaincy-from-hardik-pandya-will-cost-mi-playoffs-spot-feels-former-indian-batter-714217">IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter</a>

Riding on Sandeep Sharma's 5 for 18 and Yashasvi Jaiswal's 104 not out, RR beat MI by nine wickets at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday evening (April 22). While rain also made its presence felt in the game, it couldn't hamper RR's dominance as the one-time winners continue to march ahead in IPL 2024. After eight games, the table-toppers have won seven and are sitting at the top with 14 points. Speaking of Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter has led with aplomb, ably rotating his bowlers and making good field changes, whereas he is also the second-highest run-getter of the ongoing season, with 314 runs at an average of 62.80 and a strike-rate of 152.42 -- including&nbsp;3 fifties with a top score of 82*.

Courtesy of his form, Samson is a strong contender for the T20 WC. As far as India's T20I leadership, the 29-year-old is certainly showing all the signs to become the captain but has a long way to go before becoming a strong candidate. As of now, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are also some names being considered as&nbsp;India's next captain in white-ball format.

After Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets, in chase of 180, during match 38 of IPL 2024, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh lavished huge praise on Sanju Samson and feels he should be part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad.

After Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets, in chase of 180, during match 38 of IPL 2024, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh lavished huge praise on Sanju Samson and feels he should be part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad. The squad is set to be announced by the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee by end of this month. The mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, in West Indies and USA on June 1. Further, Harbhajan also made a bold claim, stating that Samson should be groomed as India's next T20I captain. Harbhajan took to X, formely Twitter, and wrote, “Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent. Form is temporary @ybj_19 and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keeper batsman. @IamSanjuSamson should walk in to the Indian team for T20 world cup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for India after Rohit . koi shak??? (any doubts)." Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent . Form is temporary @ybj_19 and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keepar batsman . @IamSanjuSamson should walks in to the Indian team for T20 worldcup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for india after rohit . koi… — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) April 22, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter Riding on Sandeep Sharma's 5 for 18 and Yashasvi Jaiswal's 104 not out, RR beat MI by nine wickets at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday evening (April 22). While rain also made its presence felt in the game, it couldn't hamper RR's dominance as the one-time winners continue to march ahead in IPL 2024. After eight games, the table-toppers have won seven and are sitting at the top with 14 points. Speaking of Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter has led with aplomb, ably rotating his bowlers and making good field changes, whereas he is also the second-highest run-getter of the ongoing season, with 314 runs at an average of 62.80 and a strike-rate of 152.42 -- including 3 fifties with a top score of 82*. Courtesy of his form, Samson is a strong contender for the T20 WC. As far as India's T20I leadership, the 29-year-old is certainly showing all the signs to become the captain but has a long way to go before becoming a strong candidate. As of now, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are also some names being considered as India's next captain in white-ball format.

IPL 2024: Not Rahul or Hardik! Harbhajan Singh feels Sanju Samson should be India's next T20I captain

India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad is expected to be out later this month. All the participating teams have to share their provisional squad by early May. Hence, a&nbsp;lot is being said and written about Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue's squad. Amid all this, former Indian captain and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Sourav Ganguly made a bold claim. The Bengal Tiger feels Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be the openers for the one-time winners at the mega event, which kicks off in West Indies and USA on June 1.

Speaking to PTI, Ganguly, who is currently serving as the director of cricket for the Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2024,&nbsp;said, "Both Rohit Sharma and Viral Kohli will definitely go to West Indies and USA. Its a call for selectors whom they will open with but if you ask me personally both Rohit and Virat should open for India in the T20 World Cup."

He further added, "Of course, Rohit should captain the team in the T20I World Cup. Virat Kohli also should be there. Virat Kohli is an outstanding player, nothing will happen (to return after 14 months)."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-first-tier-or-even-a-second-tier-new-zealand-team-ramiz-raja-reacts-to-pakistans-3rd-t20i-loss-713897">'Not a first-tier or even a second-tier New Zealand team' - Ramiz Raja reacts to Pakistan's 3rd T20I loss</a>

Both Rohit and Kohli returned to India's T20I setup after 14 months during the national side's home T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year. They had taken a long break from the format following India's 2022 T20 WC semifinal loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide, Australia.

Kohli remains the highest run-getter in T20Is (4,037) and is also the leading run-scorer in T20 WC history, with 1,141 runs including 14 fifties. Meanwhile, Rohit is the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament history, with 963 runs. Overall, he is second -- only behind Kohli -- in terms of most T20I runs (3,974). At present, both are busy in IPL 2024. Having been removed as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain, Rohit is among the top run-getters in the ongoing edition, with 297 runs (fifth-most) including a best of 105*. Kohli, on the other hand, remains an integral part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and is the leading run-getter, with 379 runs along with a best of 113 not out.

If Kohli and Rohit open the innings for India in the T20 WC, one among Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill might not be selected. The provisional squad is expected to be out by May 1 (i.e. the cut-off date for all teams).

India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad is expected to be out later this month. All the participating teams have to share their provisional squad by early May. Hence, a lot is being said and written about Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue's squad.

India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad is expected to be out later this month. All the participating teams have to share their provisional squad by early May. Hence, a lot is being said and written about Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue's squad. Amid all this, former Indian captain and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Sourav Ganguly made a bold claim. The Bengal Tiger feels Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be the openers for the one-time winners at the mega event, which kicks off in West Indies and USA on June 1. Speaking to PTI, Ganguly, who is currently serving as the director of cricket for the Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2024, said, "Both Rohit Sharma and Viral Kohli will definitely go to West Indies and USA. Its a call for selectors whom they will open with but if you ask me personally both Rohit and Virat should open for India in the T20 World Cup." He further added, "Of course, Rohit should captain the team in the T20I World Cup. Virat Kohli also should be there. Virat Kohli is an outstanding player, nothing will happen (to return after 14 months)." Also read: 'Not a first-tier or even a second-tier New Zealand team' - Ramiz Raja reacts to Pakistan's 3rd T20I loss Both Rohit and Kohli returned to India's T20I setup after 14 months during the national side's home T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year. They had taken a long break from the format following India's 2022 T20 WC semifinal loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide, Australia. Kohli remains the highest run-getter in T20Is (4,037) and is also the leading run-scorer in T20 WC history, with 1,141 runs including 14 fifties. Meanwhile, Rohit is the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament history, with 963 runs. Overall, he is second -- only behind Kohli -- in terms of most T20I runs (3,974). At present, both are busy in IPL 2024. Having been removed as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain, Rohit is among the top run-getters in the ongoing edition, with 297 runs (fifth-most) including a best of 105*. Kohli, on the other hand, remains an integral part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and is the leading run-getter, with 379 runs along with a best of 113 not out. If Kohli and Rohit open the innings for India in the T20 WC, one among Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill might not be selected. The provisional squad is expected to be out by May 1 (i.e. the cut-off date for all teams).

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma should be India's openers at T20 World Cup, reckons former captain Sourav Ganguly

Match 25 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in pursuit of 197 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (April 11). Opting to bowl first, Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. restricted RCB to 196 for 8 despite fifties from Faf du Plessis (61), Rajat Patidar (50) and Dinesh Karthik (53). Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 21 stood tall for MI before Ishan Kishan's 34-ball 69 and Suryakumar Yadav's 19-ball 52 took their side home in 15.3 overs.

During the RCB innings, Karthik provided the much-needed late flourish for Bengaluru with his blistering 23-ball 53, laced with 5 fours and 4 sixes. While he was in the middle, former MI skipper Rohit teased him hilariously with a comment on the T20 World Cup 2024 selection.&nbsp;

"World Cup Khelna Hai, World Cup (He is looking to push for the World Cup selection. He has to play the World Cup)," Rohit was heard saying&nbsp;on the stump mic. Here is the clip of the funny banter between the Indian captain and Karthik.

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Sharma ji to dinesh karthik- worldcup khelna h worldcup 😂😂 
rohit and stump mic recording never ending story 😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvRCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvMI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/CSefv5hzCi">pic.twitter.com/CSefv5hzCi</a>
— rAvI RaThOrE (@Ravi_rathore060) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_rathore060/status/1778455651339194413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ishan-bumrah-earn-statement-win-for-mumbai-indians-at-wankhede-as-rcb-crumble-to-fifth-defeat-710300">IPL 2024: Ishan, Bumrah earn statement win for Mumbai Indians at Wankhede as RCB crumble to fifth defeat</a>

Karthik last played for India during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. He forced his way back into the Indian team following a sensational run in the domestic circuit and that year's IPL (for RCB). However, he didn't create any such impact in the T20 WC Down Under. Since then, he has not made an appearance for the national side. However, he continues to be an active player in the domestic circuit, for Tamil Nadu and has also made a name for himself as a commentator.

Karthik, who is playing his last IPL in the ongoing edition, has started the new season with a bang. So far, he has&nbsp;143 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 190.67, including plenty of impactful cameos.&nbsp;

With many wicketkeeper-batters eyeing a place in the T20 WC spot, it will be interesting to see if the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee springs a surprise by including Karthik. All the participating teams have to reveal their provisional squad by early May. The T20 WC will kick off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024, and will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA.

Match 25 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in pursuit of 197 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (April 11).

Match 25 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in pursuit of 197 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (April 11). Opting to bowl first, Hardik Pandya & Co. restricted RCB to 196 for 8 despite fifties from Faf du Plessis (61), Rajat Patidar (50) and Dinesh Karthik (53). Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 21 stood tall for MI before Ishan Kishan's 34-ball 69 and Suryakumar Yadav's 19-ball 52 took their side home in 15.3 overs. During the RCB innings, Karthik provided the much-needed late flourish for Bengaluru with his blistering 23-ball 53, laced with 5 fours and 4 sixes. While he was in the middle, former MI skipper Rohit teased him hilariously with a comment on the T20 World Cup 2024 selection. "World Cup Khelna Hai, World Cup (He is looking to push for the World Cup selection. He has to play the World Cup)," Rohit was heard saying on the stump mic. Here is the clip of the funny banter between the Indian captain and Karthik. Sharma ji to dinesh karthik- worldcup khelna h worldcup 😂😂 rohit and stump mic recording never ending story 😂😂#MIvRCB #RCBvMI #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/CSefv5hzCi — rAvI RaThOrE (@Ravi_rathore060) April 11, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: Ishan, Bumrah earn statement win for Mumbai Indians at Wankhede as RCB crumble to fifth defeat Karthik last played for India during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. He forced his way back into the Indian team following a sensational run in the domestic circuit and that year's IPL (for RCB). However, he didn't create any such impact in the T20 WC Down Under. Since then, he has not made an appearance for the national side. However, he continues to be an active player in the domestic circuit, for Tamil Nadu and has also made a name for himself as a commentator. Karthik, who is playing his last IPL in the ongoing edition, has started the new season with a bang. So far, he has 143 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 190.67, including plenty of impactful cameos. With many wicketkeeper-batters eyeing a place in the T20 WC spot, it will be interesting to see if the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee springs a surprise by including Karthik. All the participating teams have to reveal their provisional squad by early May. The T20 WC will kick off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024, and will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA.

IPL 2024: Dinesh Karthik for T20 World Cup? Rohit's hilarious stump mic remark makes heads turn - Watch

Riyan Parag's 48-ball 76 went in vain as Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost their first game of IPL 2024 when they hosted Gujarat Titans (GT) in match 24 on Wednesday (April 10) at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur. With RR making 196-3, along with skipper Sanju Samson also being unbeaten on 68&nbsp;(38), Shubman Gill-led Gujarat chased down the score on the final ball with Rashid Khan's 11-ball 24* providing the finishing touch after their captain's sublime 72.

Nonetheless, Parag continued his good form in the ongoing edition. He has already registered three fifty-plus scores in IPL 2024 and is second on the Orange Cap list, after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Virat Kohli -- who tops the list with 316 runs. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar lavished huge praise on Parag and urged him to continue his purple patch as an India call-up might not be far away. The youngster, from Assam, is coming into this year's IPL on the back of a brilliant run in domestic cricket.

Gavaskar told Star Sports after RR lost to GT, "Riyan Parag made Gujarat pay for those lapses. That's what cricket is all about. You get an opportunity and you make the most of it. And he has made the most of it. He is playing some unbelievable cricket."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-watch-when-gujarat-is-playing-never-gills-one-liner-goes-viral-after-gt-edge-past-rr-709973">IPL 2024: WATCH | 'When Gujarat is playing, never...' - Gill's one-liner goes viral after GT edge past RR</a>

<h2>'He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on'</h2>

He added, "Not just in the IPL, but right through the season, he has had enormous success. He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on. And so all he needs to do is keep on batting the way he has been. His fielding, we all know about it, he is an excellent fielder. And he can bowl a few of those dribbly-dobblies, I call them mixed pakodas."

Parag has 261 runs from five games in IPL 2024. He has been RR's crisis man this season, showing a lot of maturity while batting in different situations. It is to be noted that since&nbsp;his IPL debut in 2019, the Assam star made only 2 fifties across 5 seasons. However, the 2024 IPL season is proving to be a career-defying one for the Assamese youngster and he will be eager to continue in a similar stead in the upcoming games.

Riyan Parag's 48-ball 76 went in vain as Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost their first game of IPL 2024 when they hosted Gujarat Titans (GT) in match 24 on Wednesday (April 10) at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur.

Riyan Parag's 48-ball 76 went in vain as Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost their first game of IPL 2024 when they hosted Gujarat Titans (GT) in match 24 on Wednesday (April 10) at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur. With RR making 196-3, along with skipper Sanju Samson also being unbeaten on 68 (38), Shubman Gill-led Gujarat chased down the score on the final ball with Rashid Khan's 11-ball 24* providing the finishing touch after their captain's sublime 72. Nonetheless, Parag continued his good form in the ongoing edition. He has already registered three fifty-plus scores in IPL 2024 and is second on the Orange Cap list, after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Virat Kohli -- who tops the list with 316 runs. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar lavished huge praise on Parag and urged him to continue his purple patch as an India call-up might not be far away. The youngster, from Assam, is coming into this year's IPL on the back of a brilliant run in domestic cricket. Gavaskar told Star Sports after RR lost to GT, "Riyan Parag made Gujarat pay for those lapses. That's what cricket is all about. You get an opportunity and you make the most of it. And he has made the most of it. He is playing some unbelievable cricket." Also read: IPL 2024: WATCH | 'When Gujarat is playing, never...' - Gill's one-liner goes viral after GT edge past RR 'He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on' He added, "Not just in the IPL, but right through the season, he has had enormous success. He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on. And so all he needs to do is keep on batting the way he has been. His fielding, we all know about it, he is an excellent fielder. And he can bowl a few of those dribbly-dobblies, I call them mixed pakodas." Parag has 261 runs from five games in IPL 2024. He has been RR's crisis man this season, showing a lot of maturity while batting in different situations. It is to be noted that since his IPL debut in 2019, the Assam star made only 2 fifties across 5 seasons. However, the 2024 IPL season is proving to be a career-defying one for the Assamese youngster and he will be eager to continue in a similar stead in the upcoming games.

IPL 2024: BCCI selectors keeping an eye on 'unbelievable' Riyan Parag, feels former Indian opener Gavaskar

Ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, on March 22, Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya and head coach Mark Boucher addressed the media. In the presser, Hardik spoke on leading India captain Rohit Sharma for the first time in the upcoming season. In December 2023, the MI team management named Hardik as the captain, replacing Rohit who led the franchise from 2013-2023 (winning them five titles).

Since the big announcement, a lot has been said and written about Hardik. It will be interesting to see how he leads Rohit, under whom he has played majority of his cricket. Hardik reacted to the prospect of leading Rohit and said that it won't be 'awkward' for him and feels Hitman will be around to help him whenever needed.

<h2>'Rohit is the captain of the Indian team'</h2>

Hardik said, "First of all, it won't be any different because he is going to be there to help me out, if I need any help. At the same time, he is the captain of the Indian team, which helps me because this team, what he has achieved under his captaincy, from now onwards, I want to carry forward what he has achieved."

"It won't be awkward or anything different. It will be a nice experience. I have played all my career under his captaincy. I know he is going to have a hand on my shoulder always, throughout the season," he further mentioned.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-refused-to-drop-kohli-for-t20-world-cup-sends-clear-message-to-jay-shah-reports-701106">Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports</a>

'To be very honest, we respect fans. At the same time, we focus on sport'

On Rohit's removal as MI captain, many fans shared their disappointment. Even the social media followers of the MI franchise dipped considerably. Hardik reacted to the fans' sentiments and said on the negative response, "Backlash bit. To be very honest, we respect fans. At the same time, we focus on sport. I control the controllables. I don't focus on what I can't control. At the same time, I am very grateful to fans. They have every right to say what they say. I respect their opinion. At the same time, we will focus on doing well."

The five-time winners Mumbai&nbsp;will open their campaign in IPL 2024 versus Hardik's previous franchise GT, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 24 (Sunday). The season-opener will be held between defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Chennai on Friday evening (March 22).

MI squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, N. Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd, Hardik Pandya (c), Gerald Coetzee, Dilshan Madushanka, Shreyas Gopal, Nuwan Thushara, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma.

Ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, on March 22, Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya and head coach Mark Boucher addressed the media. In the presser, Hardik spoke on leading India captain Rohit Sharma for the first time in the upcoming season.

Ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, on March 22, Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya and head coach Mark Boucher addressed the media. In the presser, Hardik spoke on leading India captain Rohit Sharma for the first time in the upcoming season. In December 2023, the MI team management named Hardik as the captain, replacing Rohit who led the franchise from 2013-2023 (winning them five titles). Since the big announcement, a lot has been said and written about Hardik. It will be interesting to see how he leads Rohit, under whom he has played majority of his cricket. Hardik reacted to the prospect of leading Rohit and said that it won't be 'awkward' for him and feels Hitman will be around to help him whenever needed. 'Rohit is the captain of the Indian team' Hardik said, "First of all, it won't be any different because he is going to be there to help me out, if I need any help. At the same time, he is the captain of the Indian team, which helps me because this team, what he has achieved under his captaincy, from now onwards, I want to carry forward what he has achieved." "It won't be awkward or anything different. It will be a nice experience. I have played all my career under his captaincy. I know he is going to have a hand on my shoulder always, throughout the season," he further mentioned. Also read: Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports 'To be very honest, we respect fans. At the same time, we focus on sport' On Rohit's removal as MI captain, many fans shared their disappointment. Even the social media followers of the MI franchise dipped considerably. Hardik reacted to the fans' sentiments and said on the negative response, "Backlash bit. To be very honest, we respect fans. At the same time, we focus on sport. I control the controllables. I don't focus on what I can't control. At the same time, I am very grateful to fans. They have every right to say what they say. I respect their opinion. At the same time, we will focus on doing well." The five-time winners Mumbai will open their campaign in IPL 2024 versus Hardik's previous franchise GT, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 24 (Sunday). The season-opener will be held between defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Chennai on Friday evening (March 22). MI squad for IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, N. Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd, Hardik Pandya (c), Gerald Coetzee, Dilshan Madushanka, Shreyas Gopal, Nuwan Thushara, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma.

‘I know he is...’: MI skipper Hardik says he won’t feel ‘awkward’ in leading India captain Rohit in IPL 2024

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. In recent times, it has been widely reported that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, isn't keen on including Kohli in India's T20 WC squad as his game won't suit the wickets in West Indies, co-hosts along with USA for the upcoming mega event. Moreover, the selectors are believed to be more keen in including more power-hitters at the expense of Kohli.

However, Srikkanth -- member of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 World Cup-winning team -- slammed all such rumours and stated that Kohli 'is a must' in India's squad for the forthcoming ICC tournament.

On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "No chance. It's not possible to be without Virat Kohli at the T20 World Cup. He is the one who took us to the semi-finals in T20 World Cup 2022. He was the Man of the Tournament. Who is saying all this? These rumour-mongers, don't they have any other job? What is the basis for all this chatter? If India have to win the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli is a must in the squad."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-he-is-the-ipl-graeme-swann-lauds-ms-dhonis-fitness-backs-hardiks-appointment-as-mi-captain-700333">Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain</a>

<h2>'The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat'</h2>

Srikkanth further opined, "You need a guy who can just stay there. India need that sheet anchor, be it T20 World Cup or ODI World Cup. Without Virat Kohli, the Indian team cannot go. We need Virat Kohli, 100 percent. I still believe Virat Kohli should be honoured like how Sachin Tendulkar was in 2011. " He added, "The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat. It will be a great thing for Virat Kohli."

At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Talking about his&nbsp;future in the shortest format, he came back into the T20I setup early this year (after 14 months), during the Afghanistan series. Given his impressive record in T20 WC as&nbsp;the leading scorer with 1,141 runs at 131.3, it is unlikely that he will be left out of the&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;squad.

Notably, all the participating teams have to announce their provisional squad by early May.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. In recent times, it has been widely reported that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, isn't keen on including Kohli in India's T20 WC squad as his game won't suit the wickets in West Indies, co-hosts along with USA for the upcoming mega event. Moreover, the selectors are believed to be more keen in including more power-hitters at the expense of Kohli. However, Srikkanth -- member of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 World Cup-winning team -- slammed all such rumours and stated that Kohli 'is a must' in India's squad for the forthcoming ICC tournament. On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "No chance. It's not possible to be without Virat Kohli at the T20 World Cup. He is the one who took us to the semi-finals in T20 World Cup 2022. He was the Man of the Tournament. Who is saying all this? These rumour-mongers, don't they have any other job? What is the basis for all this chatter? If India have to win the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli is a must in the squad." Also read: Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain 'The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat' Srikkanth further opined, "You need a guy who can just stay there. India need that sheet anchor, be it T20 World Cup or ODI World Cup. Without Virat Kohli, the Indian team cannot go. We need Virat Kohli, 100 percent. I still believe Virat Kohli should be honoured like how Sachin Tendulkar was in 2011. " He added, "The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat. It will be a great thing for Virat Kohli." At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Talking about his future in the shortest format, he came back into the T20I setup early this year (after 14 months), during the Afghanistan series. Given his impressive record in T20 WC as the leading scorer with 1,141 runs at 131.3, it is unlikely that he will be left out of the Indian squad. Notably, all the participating teams have to announce their provisional squad by early May.

Impossible to be without Virat Kohli at T20 World Cup 2024: Kris Srikkanth slams rumour-mongers

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has rubbished reports claiming that Virat Kohli will be dropped from India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. There have been rumours indicating that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee isn't keen on selecting Kohli in India's T20 WC squad, citing that the slow pitches in West Indies, co-hosts of the event along with USA, won't suit his game style. However, Broad has rubbished all such reports&nbsp;by dropping a huge remark on the upcoming edition's blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan on June 9 in New York.&nbsp;

<h2>'ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw'</h2>

In response to the news, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "This can’t be true. Just from a fans point of view of growing the game, the ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw of any player in the world, I’m sure he will be selected."

<img alt="Stuart Broad on Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a002d646-931f-4cab-b766-3d7236d986d1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SB.JPG" />

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-likely-to-be-dropped-to-make-way-for-power-hitters-in-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-699262">Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a>

Every participating team has&nbsp;to announce the&nbsp;provisional squad by early May. Hence, India's squad is expected to be out during the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. Speaking of Kohli, he is the leading run-getter in T20Is -- with&nbsp;4,037 runs in&nbsp;117 matches at a strike rate of 138.15. He is also the highest run-getter in T20 WC history, with&nbsp;1,141 runs in 27 games at an average of&nbsp;81.5 and strike rate of 131.3. He wasn't part of India's T20I scheme of things since their 2022 T20 WC semifinal loss, to eventual winners England, but returned to the setup -- after 14 months -- during the Afghanistan home series early this year.

At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).&nbsp;

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has rubbished reports claiming that Virat Kohli will be dropped from India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. There have been rumours indicating that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee isn't keen on selecting Kohli in India's T20 WC squad, citing that the slow pitches in West Indies, co-hosts of the event along with USA, won't suit his game style.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has rubbished reports claiming that Virat Kohli will be dropped from India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. There have been rumours indicating that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee isn't keen on selecting Kohli in India's T20 WC squad, citing that the slow pitches in West Indies, co-hosts of the event along with USA, won't suit his game style. However, Broad has rubbished all such reports by dropping a huge remark on the upcoming edition's blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan on June 9 in New York. 'ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw' In response to the news, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "This can’t be true. Just from a fans point of view of growing the game, the ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw of any player in the world, I’m sure he will be selected." Also read: Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports Every participating team has to announce the provisional squad by early May. Hence, India's squad is expected to be out during the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. Speaking of Kohli, he is the leading run-getter in T20Is -- with 4,037 runs in 117 matches at a strike rate of 138.15. He is also the highest run-getter in T20 WC history, with 1,141 runs in 27 games at an average of 81.5 and strike rate of 131.3. He wasn't part of India's T20I scheme of things since their 2022 T20 WC semifinal loss, to eventual winners England, but returned to the setup -- after 14 months -- during the Afghanistan home series early this year. At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

‘This can’t be true’: Stuart Broad rubbishes reports of Virat Kohli being dropped for T20 World Cup

India pacer Mohammed Siraj turned 30 on Wednesday (March 13). On his special day, Siraj revealed that he was contemplating international retirement in 2019 before becoming one of India's most potent bowlers. Siraj revealed that in 2019 he was mulling retirement from the sport and had given himself a year to become successful, else he was happy to walk away from the game.&nbsp;

"In 2020...19 I had thought I am giving myself this last year and after that I will leave the game for good," said Siraj in a video released by BCCI on his birthday. The wily speedster's turning point came during India's tour of Australia. In the four Tests, the pacer made his debut during the second Test at the MCG, Melbourne and ended as India's highest wicket-taker (13 scalps). Since then, there has been no looking back for the pacer who has improved as a bowler across formats. In 2023, his 6 for 21&nbsp;wreaked havoc as India bundled out Sri Lanka for a paltry 50 to win the Asia Cup final. He ended the year 2023 with 60 wickets overall, fifth-most. In ODIs, he returned with 44 scalps (second-most).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/musheer-khan-breaks-sachin-tendulkars-long-standing-record-with-hundred-in-ranji-trophy-final-699337">Musheer Khan breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record with hundred in Ranji Trophy final</a>

In the same video, depicting Siraj's hometown Hyderabad, the pacer took his fans for a tour around his hometown and showed the ground where everything kicked off for him. Siraj revealed that the ground Eidgah was where he finds peace despite travelling all around the globe. "As soon as I land in Hyderabad, my first thought is that I will go home. After home I will go to Eidgah. Wherever in the world I go. I don't get so much peace anywhere, to be honest. Whenever I go there, I get so much peace," said Siraj.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🏠 𝙃𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙩. 𝙈𝙤𝙝𝙖𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙎𝙞𝙧𝙖𝙟 
 
As he celebrates his birthday, we head back to Hyderabad where it all began 👏 
 
The pacer's heartwarming success story is filled with struggles, nostalgia and good people 🤗 
 
You've watched him bowl, now… <a href="https://t.co/RfElTPrwmJ">pic.twitter.com/RfElTPrwmJ</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1767756525815140379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further stated, "I used to go to do a catering job. My family members used to say that son, please study. I liked playing cricket very much because we used to live on rent also. My dad was the only earning member in the house. If I got a hundred or two hundred rupees, I was happy with it. I used to give 100 or 150 rupees at home and keep 50 for myself. My hands would burn as I had to flip roomali roti. But that's ok. I have reached here after having my fair share of struggle."

Siraj concluded by saying, "Whenever you work hard, your hard work will not go to waste. You will get it in the end, if not today or tomorrow, then the day after tomorrow or in a year or in two years or in three years, you will get the result."

Siraj was part of India's 4-1 Test series win over England at home, in which he claimed&nbsp;six wickets. He will now gear up for IPL 2024, where he will represent the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).&nbsp;

India pacer Mohammed Siraj turned 30 on Wednesday (March 13). On his special day, Siraj revealed that he was contemplating international retirement in 2019 before becoming one of India's most potent bowlers.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj turned 30 on Wednesday (March 13). On his special day, Siraj revealed that he was contemplating international retirement in 2019 before becoming one of India's most potent bowlers. Siraj revealed that in 2019 he was mulling retirement from the sport and had given himself a year to become successful, else he was happy to walk away from the game. "In 2020...19 I had thought I am giving myself this last year and after that I will leave the game for good," said Siraj in a video released by BCCI on his birthday. The wily speedster's turning point came during India's tour of Australia. In the four Tests, the pacer made his debut during the second Test at the MCG, Melbourne and ended as India's highest wicket-taker (13 scalps). Since then, there has been no looking back for the pacer who has improved as a bowler across formats. In 2023, his 6 for 21 wreaked havoc as India bundled out Sri Lanka for a paltry 50 to win the Asia Cup final. He ended the year 2023 with 60 wickets overall, fifth-most. In ODIs, he returned with 44 scalps (second-most). Also read: Musheer Khan breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record with hundred in Ranji Trophy final In the same video, depicting Siraj's hometown Hyderabad, the pacer took his fans for a tour around his hometown and showed the ground where everything kicked off for him. Siraj revealed that the ground Eidgah was where he finds peace despite travelling all around the globe. "As soon as I land in Hyderabad, my first thought is that I will go home. After home I will go to Eidgah. Wherever in the world I go. I don't get so much peace anywhere, to be honest. Whenever I go there, I get so much peace," said Siraj. 🏠 𝙃𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙩. 𝙈𝙤𝙝𝙖𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙎𝙞𝙧𝙖𝙟 As he celebrates his birthday, we head back to Hyderabad where it all began 👏 The pacer's heartwarming success story is filled with struggles, nostalgia and good people 🤗 You've watched him bowl, now… pic.twitter.com/RfElTPrwmJ — BCCI (@BCCI) March 13, 2024 × He further stated, "I used to go to do a catering job. My family members used to say that son, please study. I liked playing cricket very much because we used to live on rent also. My dad was the only earning member in the house. If I got a hundred or two hundred rupees, I was happy with it. I used to give 100 or 150 rupees at home and keep 50 for myself. My hands would burn as I had to flip roomali roti. But that's ok. I have reached here after having my fair share of struggle." Siraj concluded by saying, "Whenever you work hard, your hard work will not go to waste. You will get it in the end, if not today or tomorrow, then the day after tomorrow or in a year or in two years or in three years, you will get the result." Siraj was part of India's 4-1 Test series win over England at home, in which he claimed six wickets. He will now gear up for IPL 2024, where he will represent the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

India pacer Mohammed Siraj reveals he mulled quitting cricket in 2019. Here's why

Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If reports by The Telegraph are to be believed, Kohli will have to perform very well and strike at an impressive rate to be considered for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. At present, it is being widely reported that the former Indian captain isn't a certainty in India's squad and is likely to make way for power hitters.&nbsp;

During the England Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will lead India in the T20 WC. However, he didn't confirm Kohli's participation. In this regard, Shah said, "We will discuss Virat’s role in due course." Rohit and Kohli returned to the T20I setup after 14 months during the Afghanistan series early this year.

It is believed that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are keen to go ahead with power hitters such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma, etc. instead of including Kohli (who has a strike rate of 138.15 in T20Is). Moreover, the committee feels the&nbsp;slow pitches in West Indies -- co-hosts along with USA for the T20 WC -- won't suit Kohli's style of play. Thus, a discussion with Kohli is on the cards and his T20I future might well be sealed sooner than later. If he gets dropped, it will be a huge development.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-kaif-lauds-all-format-player-yashasvi-jaiswal-after-england-tests-calls-for-his-odi-debut-699058">Mohammed Kaif lauds 'all-format player' Yashasvi Jaiswal after England Tests, calls for his ODI debut</a>

Meanwhile, in a recent interaction with News18, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Irfan opined that no Indian team can be complete without Kohli. "No Indian team can be formed without Virat Kohli. How can anyone say that Virat Kohli should not be in India's team for T20 World Cup?&nbsp;You can see whatever the pressure, he performed for India, he always delivered for India," said Irfan.

India's T20 WC squad will be announced in early May, the deadline for all the participating teams, during the IPL 2024 season. At present, all eyes will be on how Kohli performs in the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If reports by The Telegraph are to be believed, Kohli will have to perform very well and strike at an impressive rate to be considered for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. At present, it is being widely reported that the former Indian captain isn't a certainty in India's squad and is likely to make way for power hitters. During the England Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will lead India in the T20 WC. However, he didn't confirm Kohli's participation. In this regard, Shah said, "We will discuss Virat’s role in due course." Rohit and Kohli returned to the T20I setup after 14 months during the Afghanistan series early this year. It is believed that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are keen to go ahead with power hitters such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma, etc. instead of including Kohli (who has a strike rate of 138.15 in T20Is). Moreover, the committee feels the slow pitches in West Indies -- co-hosts along with USA for the T20 WC -- won't suit Kohli's style of play. Thus, a discussion with Kohli is on the cards and his T20I future might well be sealed sooner than later. If he gets dropped, it will be a huge development. Also read: Mohammed Kaif lauds 'all-format player' Yashasvi Jaiswal after England Tests, calls for his ODI debut Meanwhile, in a recent interaction with News18, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Irfan opined that no Indian team can be complete without Kohli. "No Indian team can be formed without Virat Kohli. How can anyone say that Virat Kohli should not be in India's team for T20 World Cup? You can see whatever the pressure, he performed for India, he always delivered for India," said Irfan. India's T20 WC squad will be announced in early May, the deadline for all the participating teams, during the IPL 2024 season. At present, all eyes will be on how Kohli performs in the upcoming IPL season.

Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports

Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif lavished huge praise on opener Yashasvi Jaiswal after his splendid run in the just-concluded England Tests at home. Jaiswal ended the five-match series, won by Rohit Sharma-led India by 4-1 margin, with 712 runs -- being the highest run-getter -- and also became only the second Indian batter after Sunil Gavaskar to cross the 700-run mark in a Test series. The swashbuckling left-hander slammed two double tons to raise his stature in international cricket. He is already a part of India's T20I setup and Kaif believes the opener can fit well in ODIs too.

<h2>'He is an all-format player, whether you talk about ODIs, T20s or Tests'</h2>

Talking to Star Sports, Kaif said, "The sample size is very small, but we have been seeing Jaiswal for many years. We have seen him in the Ranji Trophy and the IPL. He played splendidly in the IPL, and he is an incredible player."

"He has not yet made his ODI debut. Give him an ODI debut as well. He is an all-format player, whether you talk about ODIs, T20s or Tests. As a batter, he has both defensive and attacking techniques. When he makes up his mind and if it is required, he can go from the first to the sixth or seventh gear. Hitting (James) Anderson for three sixes in three balls in a Test match shows how capable a batter he is," Kaif added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pant-might-play-t20-world-cup-if-he-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-drops-major-hint-699018">'Pant might play T20 World Cup if he...': BCCI secretary Jay Shah drops major hint</a>

Jaiswal ended the series at a strike-rate of 79.91, hitting as many as 26 sixes overall (including three successive of England's senior pacer Anderson). The southpaw&nbsp;became only the second Indian batter to have hit the most number of sixes against a single team. He will now shift his focus on IPL 2024, where he will represent the Rajasthan Royals (RR) before the T20 World Cup 2024 edition gets underway on June 1, in USA and West Indies.&nbsp;

Seeing his rise in Tests and T20Is, Jaiswal is expected to cement his spot in ODIs as well in the near future.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif lavished huge praise on opener Yashasvi Jaiswal after his splendid run in the just-concluded England Tests at home. Jaiswal ended the five-match series, won by Rohit Sharma-led India by 4-1 margin, with 712 runs -- being the highest run-getter -- and also became only the second Indian batter after Sunil Gavaskar to cross the 700-run mark in a Test series.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif lavished huge praise on opener Yashasvi Jaiswal after his splendid run in the just-concluded England Tests at home. Jaiswal ended the five-match series, won by Rohit Sharma-led India by 4-1 margin, with 712 runs -- being the highest run-getter -- and also became only the second Indian batter after Sunil Gavaskar to cross the 700-run mark in a Test series. The swashbuckling left-hander slammed two double tons to raise his stature in international cricket. He is already a part of India's T20I setup and Kaif believes the opener can fit well in ODIs too. 'He is an all-format player, whether you talk about ODIs, T20s or Tests' Talking to Star Sports, Kaif said, "The sample size is very small, but we have been seeing Jaiswal for many years. We have seen him in the Ranji Trophy and the IPL. He played splendidly in the IPL, and he is an incredible player." "He has not yet made his ODI debut. Give him an ODI debut as well. He is an all-format player, whether you talk about ODIs, T20s or Tests. As a batter, he has both defensive and attacking techniques. When he makes up his mind and if it is required, he can go from the first to the sixth or seventh gear. Hitting (James) Anderson for three sixes in three balls in a Test match shows how capable a batter he is," Kaif added. Also read: 'Pant might play T20 World Cup if he...': BCCI secretary Jay Shah drops major hint Jaiswal ended the series at a strike-rate of 79.91, hitting as many as 26 sixes overall (including three successive of England's senior pacer Anderson). The southpaw became only the second Indian batter to have hit the most number of sixes against a single team. He will now shift his focus on IPL 2024, where he will represent the Rajasthan Royals (RR) before the T20 World Cup 2024 edition gets underway on June 1, in USA and West Indies. Seeing his rise in Tests and T20Is, Jaiswal is expected to cement his spot in ODIs as well in the near future.

Mohammed Kaif lauds 'all-format player' Yashasvi Jaiswal after England Tests, calls for his ODI debut

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday). It will see Ashwin and English batter Jonny Bairstow making their respective 100th appearances in the red ball format. Rohit, thus,&nbsp;heaped praise on his teammate Ashwin for his impeccable run in Tests for India.

<h2>'It is rare to have players like R Ashwin'</h2>

In the pre-match presser of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit told the reporters, "Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a big match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over 5-7 years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him."

Ashwin has accounted for 507 wickets in 99 Tests, including 35 five-fers. He is the ninth-highest wicket-taker overall, second-most by an Indian, in Tests. In the ongoing home series versus England, he entered the elite 500-wicket club during the third Test in Rajkot.

The 37-year-old, who also has 3,309 runs including five hundreds and 14 fifties in whites, will look to have&nbsp;a memorable outing in his landmark Test, in Dharamsala.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dharamsala-test-r-ashwin-recalls-how-2012-england-series-gave-him-a-wonderful-lesson-696755">IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson</a>

Talking about the Dharamsala Test, the picturesque venue has hosted only one game in the format (between India and Australia in 2017). Rohit spoke on the surface and expects a "typical Indian pitch". In this regard, he stated, "I have not&nbsp;played a Test match here in Dharamsala. Both seamers and spinners were played back in the 2017 Test."

“Looking at the pitch; it looks like a good pitch. It will be a typical Indian pitch with some movement at the start and towards the end."

India have already won the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead following their win in the Ranchi Test. They will, however, look to make the scoreline 4-1 and add crucial points in their kitty in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday).

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday). It will see Ashwin and English batter Jonny Bairstow making their respective 100th appearances in the red ball format. Rohit, thus, heaped praise on his teammate Ashwin for his impeccable run in Tests for India. 'It is rare to have players like R Ashwin' In the pre-match presser of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit told the reporters, "Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a big match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over 5-7 years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him." Ashwin has accounted for 507 wickets in 99 Tests, including 35 five-fers. He is the ninth-highest wicket-taker overall, second-most by an Indian, in Tests. In the ongoing home series versus England, he entered the elite 500-wicket club during the third Test in Rajkot. The 37-year-old, who also has 3,309 runs including five hundreds and 14 fifties in whites, will look to have a memorable outing in his landmark Test, in Dharamsala. Also read: IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson Talking about the Dharamsala Test, the picturesque venue has hosted only one game in the format (between India and Australia in 2017). Rohit spoke on the surface and expects a "typical Indian pitch". In this regard, he stated, "I have not played a Test match here in Dharamsala. Both seamers and spinners were played back in the 2017 Test." “Looking at the pitch; it looks like a good pitch. It will be a typical Indian pitch with some movement at the start and towards the end." India have already won the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead following their win in the Ranchi Test. They will, however, look to make the scoreline 4-1 and add crucial points in their kitty in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

IND vs ENG: ‘No praise is enough’ - Rohit Sharma all praise for R Ashwin before spinner’s 100th Test

Dhruv Jurel played a match-winning knock for India in the fourth and penultimate Test versus England at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. With a five-wicket win, Rohit Sharma-led India clinched the five-Test series&nbsp;3-1 with one game left to play. Jurel led the charge with a fine 90, reducing England's lead to only 46, and made&nbsp;a crucial 39* in India's 192-run chase, along with Shubman Gill (52*) and Rohit's 55, as the home side won a tight contest.

Jurel also made his presence felt behind the stumps with his proactiveness and keeping skills. Thus, he was rightly named Player of the Match. His performance in Ranchi led to many former cricketers lauding the 23-year-old. Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar compared him to MS Dhoni, and&nbsp;now ex-spinner Anil Kumble has also joined the bandwagon.

Speaking on JioCinema, Kumble said, "Dhruv Jurel certainly has all the credentials to get to where MS (Dhoni) reached in his career. He's not just shown the temperament of his technique to defence but even when he's attacking. Even in that first innings, he was very assured, he went after and then hit those big sixes."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-sarfaraz-khans-game-is-suited-to-test-cricket-feels-former-indian-captain-sourav-ganguly-695376">IND vs ENG: Sarfaraz Khan’s game is suited to Test cricket, feels former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly</a>

"He's been exceptional, especially of the faster bowlers...He's only going to improve. This is only his second Test and I'm sure as he starts playing more and more he'll only get better. And it only augers well for India. And to have him in a squad is exceptional. Yeah, I mean it's not been easy for KS Bharat (the other keeper-batter)," the former India head coach added.

Jurel made his Test debut in the third game in Rajkot, where he scored a vital 46 in the first innings. The youngster will be eager to keep going ahead in a similar manner in the fifth and final Test versus England in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7.

Dhruv Jurel played a match-winning knock for India in the fourth and penultimate Test versus England at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. With a five-wicket win, Rohit Sharma-led India clinched the five-Test series 3-1 with one game left to play.

Dhruv Jurel played a match-winning knock for India in the fourth and penultimate Test versus England at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. With a five-wicket win, Rohit Sharma-led India clinched the five-Test series 3-1 with one game left to play. Jurel led the charge with a fine 90, reducing England's lead to only 46, and made a crucial 39* in India's 192-run chase, along with Shubman Gill (52*) and Rohit's 55, as the home side won a tight contest. Jurel also made his presence felt behind the stumps with his proactiveness and keeping skills. Thus, he was rightly named Player of the Match. His performance in Ranchi led to many former cricketers lauding the 23-year-old. Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar compared him to MS Dhoni, and now ex-spinner Anil Kumble has also joined the bandwagon. Speaking on JioCinema, Kumble said, "Dhruv Jurel certainly has all the credentials to get to where MS (Dhoni) reached in his career. He's not just shown the temperament of his technique to defence but even when he's attacking. Even in that first innings, he was very assured, he went after and then hit those big sixes." Also read: IND vs ENG: Sarfaraz Khan’s game is suited to Test cricket, feels former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly "He's been exceptional, especially of the faster bowlers...He's only going to improve. This is only his second Test and I'm sure as he starts playing more and more he'll only get better. And it only augers well for India. And to have him in a squad is exceptional. Yeah, I mean it's not been easy for KS Bharat (the other keeper-batter)," the former India head coach added. Jurel made his Test debut in the third game in Rajkot, where he scored a vital 46 in the first innings. The youngster will be eager to keep going ahead in a similar manner in the fifth and final Test versus England in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7.

IND vs ENG: Dhruv Jurel can reach the standards of MS Dhoni - Former spinner Anil Kumble's BIG claim

Yashasvi Jaiswal continues his merry run as the Indian opener&nbsp;moved three spots higher to attain a career-best 12th spot in the latest batting chart, updated on Wednesday (Feb&nbsp;28). The swashbuckling left-hander, who has been in sublime form in the ongoing five Test&nbsp;series versus England at home, surpassed Indian captain&nbsp;and his opening partner, Rohit Sharma -- who has moved down to No. 13 in the batting list.

Jaiswal has been in top form in India's current home series versus England. Rohit &amp; Co. recently attained an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series after winning the fourth Test, in Ranchi, by five wickets. Jaiswal has been one of the star performers, being the top run-getter with 655 runs in four games. He struck his maiden double ton in the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, and went past the 200-run mark once again in the following Test in Rajkot. Apart from that, he also has two fifties (80 in the first Test in Hyderabad and 73 in Ranchi) under his belt.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-not-sunil-gavaskar-opines-on-rishabh-pants-awaited-comeback-during-ipl-2024-694666">'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024</a>

Thus, Jaiswal has reaped rewards for his brilliant run, climbing three spots in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters. In the overall list, New Zealand's Kane Williamson continues to top the chart whereas Virat Kohli -- who&nbsp;withdrew&nbsp;from the first two Tests versus England before eventually pulling away completely to welcome his second child -- remains India's top batter (9th).

<h3>ICC TEST BATTING RANKINGS</h3>

1. Kane Williamson - 893 rating points 
2. Steve Smith - 818 rating points 
3. Joe Root - 799&nbsp;rating points 
4. Daryl Mitchell - 780&nbsp;rating points 
5. Babar Azam - 768 rating points 
6. Usman Khawaja - 765&nbsp;rating points 
7. Dimuth Karunaratne - 750&nbsp;rating points 
8. Marnus Labuschagne - 746&nbsp;rating points 
9. Virat Kohli - 744&nbsp;rating points 
10. Harry Brook - 743&nbsp;rating points

Other Indians in Notable Spots

12. Yashasvi Jaiswal - 727&nbsp;rating points 
13. Rohit Sharma - 720&nbsp;rating points 
14. Rishabh Pant - 699&nbsp;rating points

Jaiswal-starrer India will take on England in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala which gets underway on March 7. The left-hander -- who equalled Kohli's record for the most runs in a bilateral series against England in Tests -- will aim to finish off on a high with another daddy hundred in the&nbsp;final Test.

Yashasvi Jaiswal continues his merry run as the Indian opener moved three spots higher to attain a career-best 12th spot in the latest batting chart, updated on Wednesday (Feb 28).

Yashasvi Jaiswal continues his merry run as the Indian opener moved three spots higher to attain a career-best 12th spot in the latest batting chart, updated on Wednesday (Feb 28). The swashbuckling left-hander, who has been in sublime form in the ongoing five Test series versus England at home, surpassed Indian captain and his opening partner, Rohit Sharma -- who has moved down to No. 13 in the batting list. Jaiswal has been in top form in India's current home series versus England. Rohit & Co. recently attained an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series after winning the fourth Test, in Ranchi, by five wickets. Jaiswal has been one of the star performers, being the top run-getter with 655 runs in four games. He struck his maiden double ton in the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, and went past the 200-run mark once again in the following Test in Rajkot. Apart from that, he also has two fifties (80 in the first Test in Hyderabad and 73 in Ranchi) under his belt. Also read: 'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024 Thus, Jaiswal has reaped rewards for his brilliant run, climbing three spots in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters. In the overall list, New Zealand's Kane Williamson continues to top the chart whereas Virat Kohli -- who withdrew from the first two Tests versus England before eventually pulling away completely to welcome his second child -- remains India's top batter (9th). ICC TEST BATTING RANKINGS 1. Kane Williamson - 893 rating points 2. Steve Smith - 818 rating points 3. Joe Root - 799 rating points 4. Daryl Mitchell - 780 rating points 5. Babar Azam - 768 rating points 6. Usman Khawaja - 765 rating points 7. Dimuth Karunaratne - 750 rating points 8. Marnus Labuschagne - 746 rating points 9. Virat Kohli - 744 rating points 10. Harry Brook - 743 rating points Other Indians in Notable Spots 12. Yashasvi Jaiswal - 727 rating points 13. Rohit Sharma - 720 rating points 14. Rishabh Pant - 699 rating points Jaiswal-starrer India will take on England in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala which gets underway on March 7. The left-hander -- who equalled Kohli's record for the most runs in a bilateral series against England in Tests -- will aim to finish off on a high with another daddy hundred in the final Test.

ICC Test Rankings: Yashasvi Jaiswal surpasses Indian captain Rohit Sharma for career-best spot

Mohammed Shami IPL: Gujarat Titans (GT) have dealt&nbsp;a major blow as senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the forthcoming IPL 2024 edition. Shami will miss the entire season to undergo surgery for an ankle injury, which has kept him out of action since India's ODI World Cup 2023 campaign at home. The speedster missed the entire South Africa tour and is also not part of the ongoing home Tests versus England.

A senior BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity, "Shami was in London in last week of January to take special ankle injections and he was told that after three weeks, he can start light running and take it from thereon. But the injection hasn't worked and now the only option left is surgery. He will shortly leave for UK for surgery. IPL seems out of question."

Shami's injury is a big blow to Shubman Gill-led GT ahead of IPL 2024, whose schedule is expected to be out soon.

Shami has been in sublime touch in recent times. Having missed the initial ODI WC games, the pacer still managed to end the tournament as the leading wicket-taker (24). Even in IPL 2023, he was the highest wicket-taker, ending with 28 scalps at an average of 18.64 and a best of 4 for 11 for the then Hardik Pandya-led side. His performance was instrumental in the one-time winners ending as the runners-up.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-worry-about-jasprit-bumrah-he-is-sa-legend-dale-steyn-on-pacers-rest-for-ranchi-test-692589">'Don't worry about Jasprit Bumrah, he is...': SA legend Dale Steyn on the pacer skipping Ranchi Test</a>

The new development has pointed fingers at the injury rehabilitation management programme planned by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), in Bengaluru, for Shami. It is highly unlikely for the pacer to regain full fitness ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup and also for the Test series versus Bangladesh and New Zealand (later in the year).&nbsp;

<h2>GT squad for IPL 2024</h2>

Mathew Wade, Wriddiman Saha, Robin Minz, Shubman Gill (c), David Miller, Abhinav Manohar, Kane Williamson, Sai Sudharsan, Rashid Khan (vc), Rahul Tewatia, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Azmatullah Omarzai, Darshan Nalkande, Shahrukh Khan, Umesh Yadav, Josh Little, R. Sai Kishore, Mohit Sharma, Noor Ahmad, Sushant Mishra, Kartik Tyagi, Manav Suthar, Spencer Johnson

Mohammed Shami IPL: Gujarat Titans (GT) have dealt a major blow as senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the forthcoming IPL 2024 edition. Shami will miss the entire season to undergo surgery for an ankle injury, which has kept him out of action since India's ODI World Cup 2023 campaign at home.

Mohammed Shami IPL: Gujarat Titans (GT) have dealt a major blow as senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the forthcoming IPL 2024 edition. Shami will miss the entire season to undergo surgery for an ankle injury, which has kept him out of action since India's ODI World Cup 2023 campaign at home. The speedster missed the entire South Africa tour and is also not part of the ongoing home Tests versus England. A senior BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity, "Shami was in London in last week of January to take special ankle injections and he was told that after three weeks, he can start light running and take it from thereon. But the injection hasn't worked and now the only option left is surgery. He will shortly leave for UK for surgery. IPL seems out of question." Shami's injury is a big blow to Shubman Gill-led GT ahead of IPL 2024, whose schedule is expected to be out soon. Shami has been in sublime touch in recent times. Having missed the initial ODI WC games, the pacer still managed to end the tournament as the leading wicket-taker (24). Even in IPL 2023, he was the highest wicket-taker, ending with 28 scalps at an average of 18.64 and a best of 4 for 11 for the then Hardik Pandya-led side. His performance was instrumental in the one-time winners ending as the runners-up. Also read: 'Don't worry about Jasprit Bumrah, he is...': SA legend Dale Steyn on the pacer skipping Ranchi Test The new development has pointed fingers at the injury rehabilitation management programme planned by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), in Bengaluru, for Shami. It is highly unlikely for the pacer to regain full fitness ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup and also for the Test series versus Bangladesh and New Zealand (later in the year). GT squad for IPL 2024 Mathew Wade, Wriddiman Saha, Robin Minz, Shubman Gill (c), David Miller, Abhinav Manohar, Kane Williamson, Sai Sudharsan, Rashid Khan (vc), Rahul Tewatia, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Azmatullah Omarzai, Darshan Nalkande, Shahrukh Khan, Umesh Yadav, Josh Little, R. Sai Kishore, Mohit Sharma, Noor Ahmad, Sushant Mishra, Kartik Tyagi, Manav Suthar, Spencer Johnson

IPL 2024: Gujarat Titans pacer Mohammed Shami to miss full season, undergo surgery for ankle injury

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition&nbsp;in West Indies and USA. The upcoming ICC event kicks off in early June with India placed in Group A with Ireland, USA, Canada and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will start their campaign on June 5, versus Ireland.

Speaking to Mid Day, Ganguly -- who also served as the BCCI chief -- said, "Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-ask-him-why-i-was-dropped-just-retired-manoj-tiwary-questions-ms-dhoni-for-team-india-snub-691908">Want to ask him why was I dropped: Manoj Tiwary questions MS Dhoni on Team India snub</a>

Ahead of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test between India and England, in the ongoing five-match series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Rohit will lead the national side in the next edition of the T20 WC. There were speculations of Hardik Pandya to lead India in the mega event with Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, being away from India's T20I setup for 14 months since the 2022 T20 WC semifinal defeat (to eventual winners England). However, Rohit returned to the shortest format early this year during India's T20I series win over Afghanistan. With him, Kohli also made a T20I comeback.&nbsp;

Moreover, Hardik -- who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of IPL 2024 -- is recovering from an ankle injury, which he suffered during India's ODI WC campaign last year. He will serve as Rohit's deputy in the T20 WC if deemed fully fit by then.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition in West Indies and USA. The upcoming ICC event kicks off in early June with India placed in Group A with Ireland, USA, Canada and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will start their campaign on June 5, versus Ireland. Speaking to Mid Day, Ganguly -- who also served as the BCCI chief -- said, "Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice." Also read: Want to ask him why was I dropped: Manoj Tiwary questions MS Dhoni on Team India snub Ahead of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test between India and England, in the ongoing five-match series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Rohit will lead the national side in the next edition of the T20 WC. There were speculations of Hardik Pandya to lead India in the mega event with Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, being away from India's T20I setup for 14 months since the 2022 T20 WC semifinal defeat (to eventual winners England). However, Rohit returned to the shortest format early this year during India's T20I series win over Afghanistan. With him, Kohli also made a T20I comeback. Moreover, Hardik -- who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of IPL 2024 -- is recovering from an ankle injury, which he suffered during India's ODI WC campaign last year. He will serve as Rohit's deputy in the T20 WC if deemed fully fit by then.

Rohit Sharma right choice to lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup: Former captain Sourav Ganguly

Manoj Tiwary recently announced his retirement from&nbsp;cricket. Being a big name for the&nbsp;Bengal state team, Tiwary also represented India in 12 ODIs and three T20Is. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket&nbsp;in August 2023. However, he reversed his decision to play for Bengal in the 2023/24 Ranji Trophy season. Now, he has stepped aside completely and revealed his biggest regret of not representing India in Tests.

Tiwary never found himself&nbsp;as a&nbsp;more permanent member&nbsp;of&nbsp;Team India. Debuting in 2008, the right-hander played his last ODI for India in 2015 and his final&nbsp;T20Is in 2012 but never wore the Test cap. Despite having scored a century in ODIs in late 2011, he&nbsp;was mysteriously benched for months. Now, Tiwary has questioned the then-Indian captain MS Dhoni for dropping him.

<h2>'When self-confidence is at its peak and someone destroys that, then that player is finished'</h2>

Talking to News18, Tiwary said, "When I had completed playing 65 first-class matches, my batting average was around 65. The Australia team had toured India then, and I had scored 130 in Chennai in a friendly game, then I scored 93 against England in a friendly game. I was very close, but they picked Yuvraj Singh instead. So Test cap and the fact that I was ignored after getting the Man of the Match award for scoring a hundred...I was ignored for 14 straight matches. When self-confidence is at its peak and someone destroys that, then that player is finished. Confidence is everything for a player, in any profession."&nbsp;

On being asked who killed that confidence, Tiwary firmly said,&nbsp;"I know the name but I don't want to take it. I am a grown man now. When a player is omitted, it's the decision of the team management."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-bowling-was-massacred-by-young-indian-batters-manjrekars-big-statement-after-rajkot-test-691718">England’s bowling was massacred by young Indian batters - Manjrekar’s big statement after Rajkot Test</a>

<h2>'I would ask why I was dropped when&nbsp;neither Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or Suresh Raina&nbsp;were scoring runs'</h2>

When the reporter revealed that Dhoni was the captain when he was dropped, Tiwary was quick to point out, "Yes, MS Dhoni was the captain. If I get the opportunity to ask the question, I will ask him why I was dropped from the team after scoring the century, especially in that tour of Australia where nobody was scoring runs, neither Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or Suresh Raina. I have nothing to lose now."&nbsp;

Tiwary and Dhoni have been teammates even in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when the duo represented the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS). While the right-hander never made it big in the senior team, he has been a force to reckon with in first-class cricket; scoring&nbsp;10,195 runs with 30 centuries at&nbsp;47.86. He represented Bengal for over two decades which included several memorable performances with the bat.

Manoj Tiwary recently announced his retirement from cricket. Being a big name for the Bengal state team, Tiwary also represented India in 12 ODIs and three T20Is.

Manoj Tiwary recently announced his retirement from cricket. Being a big name for the Bengal state team, Tiwary also represented India in 12 ODIs and three T20Is. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in August 2023. However, he reversed his decision to play for Bengal in the 2023/24 Ranji Trophy season. Now, he has stepped aside completely and revealed his biggest regret of not representing India in Tests. Tiwary never found himself as a more permanent member of Team India. Debuting in 2008, the right-hander played his last ODI for India in 2015 and his final T20Is in 2012 but never wore the Test cap. Despite having scored a century in ODIs in late 2011, he was mysteriously benched for months. Now, Tiwary has questioned the then-Indian captain MS Dhoni for dropping him. 'When self-confidence is at its peak and someone destroys that, then that player is finished' Talking to News18, Tiwary said, "When I had completed playing 65 first-class matches, my batting average was around 65. The Australia team had toured India then, and I had scored 130 in Chennai in a friendly game, then I scored 93 against England in a friendly game. I was very close, but they picked Yuvraj Singh instead. So Test cap and the fact that I was ignored after getting the Man of the Match award for scoring a hundred...I was ignored for 14 straight matches. When self-confidence is at its peak and someone destroys that, then that player is finished. Confidence is everything for a player, in any profession." On being asked who killed that confidence, Tiwary firmly said, "I know the name but I don't want to take it. I am a grown man now. When a player is omitted, it's the decision of the team management." Also read: England’s bowling was massacred by young Indian batters - Manjrekar’s big statement after Rajkot Test 'I would ask why I was dropped when neither Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or Suresh Raina were scoring runs' When the reporter revealed that Dhoni was the captain when he was dropped, Tiwary was quick to point out, "Yes, MS Dhoni was the captain. If I get the opportunity to ask the question, I will ask him why I was dropped from the team after scoring the century, especially in that tour of Australia where nobody was scoring runs, neither Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or Suresh Raina. I have nothing to lose now." Tiwary and Dhoni have been teammates even in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when the duo represented the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS). While the right-hander never made it big in the senior team, he has been a force to reckon with in first-class cricket; scoring 10,195 runs with 30 centuries at 47.86. He represented Bengal for over two decades which included several memorable performances with the bat.

Want to ask him why I was dropped: Manoj Tiwary questions MS Dhoni on Team India snub

India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has continued his purple patch during the ongoing Test against England as he brought up his second ton of the series on Saturday (Feb 17). Jaiswal, having scored a double hundred in the Vizag Test continued his splendid run with another impressive outing in Rajkot. The Mumbai batter has taken Test cricket by storm in the last 12 months and his exploits with the bat have now put India in a strong position in the third Test.

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A leap of joy to celebrate his second century of the series 🙌 
 
Well played, Yashasvi Jaiswal 👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ybj_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ybj_19</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/pdlPhn5e3N">pic.twitter.com/pdlPhn5e3N</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1758805134812086273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Jaiswal continues purple patch</h2>

Batting in the hot conditions of Rajkot, Jaiswal scored his fourth Test hundred by hitting a four on the final ball of the 39th over in the mid-off region to Mark Wood. Having made his debut in July 2023 against West Indies, the 22-year-old had adopted life well in the red-ball format as he scored another ton for Team India.

It took Jaiswal 122 deliveries to complete his ton as he led from the front against a resolute English attack. India at the time of writing were 172/1 with Shubman Gill batting at the other end. India lost Rohit Sharma early when he was dismissed for 19 as the hosts made a poor start to their innings. Rohit was leg-before on 19 as Joe Root got the better of him in the 12th over.

<h2>Jaiswal retired hurt after back issue</h2>

After scoring his hundred, Jaiwal experienced back pain and even received some treatment in the middle. However, the batter then decided to withdraw and retired hurt on 104 and returned to the pavilion after the conclusion of the 44th over. The back issue adds more woes to Team India as they are already without Ravichandran Ashwin who had withdrawn from the remaining Test match on Friday due to personal issues.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/were-one-of-the-best-bowling-teams-says-sri-lanka-skipper-wanindu-hasaranga-ahead-of-afghanistan-t20is-691169">'We're one of the best bowling teams,' says Sri Lanka skipper Wanindu Hasaranga ahead of Afghanistan T20Is</a>

<h2>Highlights of Day 3</h2>

England started the day at 207/2 but lost Ben Duckett (153) early in the first session while Root (18) and Jonny Bairstow (0) also departed cheap. India entered Day 3 with no Ashwin as the spinner withdrew from the match due to personal reasons. In the second session of Day 3,&nbsp;India bowled out England for 319 with the visitors adding just 112 runs to their overnight total. Mohammed Siraj&nbsp;scalped four wickets while Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja also bagged a couple of wickets for the visits.

At the end of England’s innings, India had a lead of 126 runs as they now have an iron grip over the contest after a good start to the second innings.

India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has continued his purple patch during the ongoing Test against England as he brought up his second ton of the series on Saturday (Feb 17).

India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has continued his purple patch during the ongoing Test against England as he brought up his second ton of the series on Saturday (Feb 17). Jaiswal, having scored a double hundred in the Vizag Test continued his splendid run with another impressive outing in Rajkot. The Mumbai batter has taken Test cricket by storm in the last 12 months and his exploits with the bat have now put India in a strong position in the third Test. A leap of joy to celebrate his second century of the series 🙌 Well played, Yashasvi Jaiswal 👏👏#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @ybj_19 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/pdlPhn5e3N — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2024 × Jaiswal continues purple patch Batting in the hot conditions of Rajkot, Jaiswal scored his fourth Test hundred by hitting a four on the final ball of the 39th over in the mid-off region to Mark Wood. Having made his debut in July 2023 against West Indies, the 22-year-old had adopted life well in the red-ball format as he scored another ton for Team India. It took Jaiswal 122 deliveries to complete his ton as he led from the front against a resolute English attack. India at the time of writing were 172/1 with Shubman Gill batting at the other end. India lost Rohit Sharma early when he was dismissed for 19 as the hosts made a poor start to their innings. Rohit was leg-before on 19 as Joe Root got the better of him in the 12th over. Jaiswal retired hurt after back issue After scoring his hundred, Jaiwal experienced back pain and even received some treatment in the middle. However, the batter then decided to withdraw and retired hurt on 104 and returned to the pavilion after the conclusion of the 44th over. The back issue adds more woes to Team India as they are already without Ravichandran Ashwin who had withdrawn from the remaining Test match on Friday due to personal issues. ALSO READ | 'We're one of the best bowling teams,' says Sri Lanka skipper Wanindu Hasaranga ahead of Afghanistan T20Is Highlights of Day 3 England started the day at 207/2 but lost Ben Duckett (153) early in the first session while Root (18) and Jonny Bairstow (0) also departed cheap. India entered Day 3 with no Ashwin as the spinner withdrew from the match due to personal reasons. In the second session of Day 3, India bowled out England for 319 with the visitors adding just 112 runs to their overnight total. Mohammed Siraj scalped four wickets while Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja also bagged a couple of wickets for the visits. At the end of England’s innings, India had a lead of 126 runs as they now have an iron grip over the contest after a good start to the second innings.

IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal continues purple patch for Team India, slams second hundred in series - WATCH

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA. At an event in the Rajkot, which saw the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium being renamed to Niranjan Shah Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 14), Shah confirmed that Hitman will lead the Men in Blue in the mega event which starts in early June. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland.

After the announcement from Shah, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble said that he isn't surprised with the call. Speaking to Sports18, Kumble pointed out, "The Rohit Sharma announcement, I don't think was a surprise because I certainly believe that we need that stability, especially at the top. Rohit is someone who has done exceptionally well as India's captain."

Kumble added, "His T20 form in the IPL hasn't been special in the last couple of years but he's a quality player. We saw against Afghanistan, when the team was struggling a bit he came and scored that wonderful hundred. It's important you have that kind of stability going into the T20 World Cup."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-will-lead-india-in-2024-t20-world-cup-hardik-to-be-his-deputy-jay-shah-690429">Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: Jay Shah</a>

On Wednesday, Shah said in the event in Rajkot, "We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. But we won hearts there by winning 10 matches in a row. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Barbados."

Rohit -- a white-ball legend -- had not featured in India's T20I setup since their 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal loss&nbsp;to eventual winners England in Adelaide. He returned to the shortest format after 14 months during India's three T20Is versus Afghanistan, at home, early this year. The series also saw Virat Kohli's return to the format, after an equal number of months. Shah also opined on Kohli's spot with regard to the T20 WC. He said, "We will talk about him [soon]."

Kohli is currently on a break from international cricket due to personal reasons and has not featured in India's ongoing home Tests versus England. On Thursday (Feb 15), India and England locked horns on Day 1 of the third Test in Rajkot. Opting to bat first, India went to lunch at 93/3 with captain Rohit surpassing the 50-run mark for the first time in the series. The five-match series is currently level&nbsp;at 1-1.

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA.

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA. At an event in the Rajkot, which saw the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium being renamed to Niranjan Shah Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 14), Shah confirmed that Hitman will lead the Men in Blue in the mega event which starts in early June. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland. After the announcement from Shah, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble said that he isn't surprised with the call. Speaking to Sports18, Kumble pointed out, "The Rohit Sharma announcement, I don't think was a surprise because I certainly believe that we need that stability, especially at the top. Rohit is someone who has done exceptionally well as India's captain." Kumble added, "His T20 form in the IPL hasn't been special in the last couple of years but he's a quality player. We saw against Afghanistan, when the team was struggling a bit he came and scored that wonderful hundred. It's important you have that kind of stability going into the T20 World Cup." Also read: Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: Jay Shah On Wednesday, Shah said in the event in Rajkot, "We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. But we won hearts there by winning 10 matches in a row. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Barbados." Rohit -- a white-ball legend -- had not featured in India's T20I setup since their 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal loss to eventual winners England in Adelaide. He returned to the shortest format after 14 months during India's three T20Is versus Afghanistan, at home, early this year. The series also saw Virat Kohli's return to the format, after an equal number of months. Shah also opined on Kohli's spot with regard to the T20 WC. He said, "We will talk about him [soon]." Kohli is currently on a break from international cricket due to personal reasons and has not featured in India's ongoing home Tests versus England. On Thursday (Feb 15), India and England locked horns on Day 1 of the third Test in Rajkot. Opting to bat first, India went to lunch at 93/3 with captain Rohit surpassing the 50-run mark for the first time in the series. The five-match series is currently level at 1-1.

Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why -

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