Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible 2024 T20 World Cup squad after the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both Rohit and Kohli have returned to the T20I setup, after the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, for the Men in Blue's final series in the run-up to this year's T20 WC in West Indies and USA, slated to be held in June.&nbsp;

With Rohit and Kohli's return, it is highly likely that now the duo will take part in the mega event in mid-2024. Gavaskar feels the form of the T20 WC-bound players will be closely monitored during IPL 2024. He stated that if Rohit and Kohli perform even in five out of the 14 matches, minimum for all franchises, in IPL 2024, it can lead to their selection in the T20 WC squad.&nbsp;

"I feel the IPL form will be crucial because that will be the current form. The Afghanistan series is in January. The World Cup is in June. So whoever has good form in March, April and May should be given consideration first, that performance should be given consideration. Along with that, I will also say that even if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have an ordinary IPL, but they score runs there, you cannot score runs in every match, but suppose they make good contributions in five out of 14 matches, you will have to take advantage of their experience, and you can probably pick them in the team," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-rohit-sharma-still-has-intensity-and-aggression-to-lead-india-to-wc-title-former-indian-stumper-678881">Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma still has intensity and aggression to lead India to WC title - Former Indian stumper</a>

<h2>'If Rohit&nbsp;and Virat are in the dugout, imagine&nbsp;the team's confidence'</h2>

Interestingly, Gavaskar went ahead and made a bold suggestion. He claimed that if the BCCI selectors do not include Rohit and Kohli in the T20 WC squad, they can still be part of the Indian dugout which will boost the team's confidence.&nbsp;"I will also say that, it's an out-of-the-box suggestion, you can take them along with the team as well, if you cannot pick them in the 14 (15), because of their experience. If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are in the dugout, imagine what will be the team's confidence," Gavaskar added.

At present, Rohit-led India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series opener versus Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Kohli has opted out of the first game due to personal reasons. He is expected to return for the final two T20Is.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible 2024 T20 World Cup squad after the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both Rohit and Kohli have returned to the T20I setup, after the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, for the Men in Blue's final series in the run-up to this year's T20 WC in West Indies and USA, slated to be held in June.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible 2024 T20 World Cup squad after the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both Rohit and Kohli have returned to the T20I setup, after the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, for the Men in Blue's final series in the run-up to this year's T20 WC in West Indies and USA, slated to be held in June. With Rohit and Kohli's return, it is highly likely that now the duo will take part in the mega event in mid-2024. Gavaskar feels the form of the T20 WC-bound players will be closely monitored during IPL 2024. He stated that if Rohit and Kohli perform even in five out of the 14 matches, minimum for all franchises, in IPL 2024, it can lead to their selection in the T20 WC squad. "I feel the IPL form will be crucial because that will be the current form. The Afghanistan series is in January. The World Cup is in June. So whoever has good form in March, April and May should be given consideration first, that performance should be given consideration. Along with that, I will also say that even if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have an ordinary IPL, but they score runs there, you cannot score runs in every match, but suppose they make good contributions in five out of 14 matches, you will have to take advantage of their experience, and you can probably pick them in the team," Gavaskar told Star Sports. Also read: Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma still has intensity and aggression to lead India to WC title - Former Indian stumper 'If Rohit and Virat are in the dugout, imagine the team's confidence' Interestingly, Gavaskar went ahead and made a bold suggestion. He claimed that if the BCCI selectors do not include Rohit and Kohli in the T20 WC squad, they can still be part of the Indian dugout which will boost the team's confidence. "I will also say that, it's an out-of-the-box suggestion, you can take them along with the team as well, if you cannot pick them in the 14 (15), because of their experience. If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are in the dugout, imagine what will be the team's confidence," Gavaskar added. At present, Rohit-led India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series opener versus Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Kohli has opted out of the first game due to personal reasons. He is expected to return for the final two T20Is.

‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion

Rohit Sharma is set to make his return in T20Is in India's three-match series opener versus Afghanistan, which will be held on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels Rohit still has the intensity and aggression to lead India to a World Cup title&nbsp;after missing out on last year's home ODI WC.

Speaking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "This is a wonderful phase for Rohit Sharma. The way he led India in the ODI World Cup goes to shows his desire to win the World Cup for India. Rohit is in prime form. His fitness also has helped him grow in confidence. That is the reason why the Indian selectors have again opted for Rohit to lead the side, to bring that kind of stability to the side as a captain and as a batter."

Karim opined, "The way he walked the talk in the recently-concluded one-day matches. It just goes to show he still has the intensity and the aggression to lead India to that much-awaited World Cup triumph."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-afghanistan-1st-t20i-match-preview-and-result-prediction-678829">India vs Afghanistan 2024, 1st T20I: Match preview and result prediction</a>

Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, have not played a T20I since the 2022 T20 WC. However, the duo has returned to the T20I setup where they host the Afghans&nbsp;ahead of the 2024 T20 WC&nbsp;in West Indies and USA in June. Karim feels Rohit's all-out approach in the powerplays during the ODI WC helped him get back to the T20I setup, along with his credible leadership.

The former stumper highlighted, "That (Powerplay approach in ODIs) is one of the main reasons that we are seeing Rohit Sharma once again as a player and as a captain in T20Is. The intensity with which he batted in one-day cricket, the aggression that he showed. He paved a path for batting in white-ball cricket. He did and showed it to the rest of the team, lead from the front."

"Rohit has a lot of experience. He has been playing T20 cricket for years. People do find it hard from switching from red-ball to white-ball cricket. But, I think Rohit, with his experience, he will be able to do that very easily," added&nbsp;Karim.

Rohit has&nbsp;3,853 runs from 148 T20Is, at 31.32, at a strike rate of 139.24.

Rohit Sharma is set to make his return in T20Is in India's three-match series opener versus Afghanistan, which will be held on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels Rohit still has the intensity and aggression to lead India to a World Cup title after missing out on last year's home ODI WC.

Rohit Sharma is set to make his return in T20Is in India's three-match series opener versus Afghanistan, which will be held on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels Rohit still has the intensity and aggression to lead India to a World Cup title after missing out on last year's home ODI WC. Speaking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "This is a wonderful phase for Rohit Sharma. The way he led India in the ODI World Cup goes to shows his desire to win the World Cup for India. Rohit is in prime form. His fitness also has helped him grow in confidence. That is the reason why the Indian selectors have again opted for Rohit to lead the side, to bring that kind of stability to the side as a captain and as a batter." Karim opined, "The way he walked the talk in the recently-concluded one-day matches. It just goes to show he still has the intensity and the aggression to lead India to that much-awaited World Cup triumph." Also read: India vs Afghanistan 2024, 1st T20I: Match preview and result prediction Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, have not played a T20I since the 2022 T20 WC. However, the duo has returned to the T20I setup where they host the Afghans ahead of the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA in June. Karim feels Rohit's all-out approach in the powerplays during the ODI WC helped him get back to the T20I setup, along with his credible leadership. The former stumper highlighted, "That (Powerplay approach in ODIs) is one of the main reasons that we are seeing Rohit Sharma once again as a player and as a captain in T20Is. The intensity with which he batted in one-day cricket, the aggression that he showed. He paved a path for batting in white-ball cricket. He did and showed it to the rest of the team, lead from the front." "Rohit has a lot of experience. He has been playing T20 cricket for years. People do find it hard from switching from red-ball to white-ball cricket. But, I think Rohit, with his experience, he will be able to do that very easily," added Karim. Rohit has 3,853 runs from 148 T20Is, at 31.32, at a strike rate of 139.24.

Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma still has intensity and aggression to lead India to WC title - Former Indian stumper

Virat Kohli has jumped three spots to claim the sixth position in the latest ICC Test Rankings for batters whereas Indian captain Rohit Sharma entered the top 10 following his crucial knocks in India's second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town. In the bowling list, India's pace duo Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah -- both of whom accounted for five-fers in the Cape Town win -- has also improved their rankings whereas Kagiso Rabada, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and R Ashwin remained at top.&nbsp;

ICC Test Rankings for batters

Kane Williamson - 864 rating points

Joe Root - 859 rating points

Steve Smith - 818 rating points

Marnus Labuschagne - 802 rating points

Daryl Mitchell - 786 rating points

Virat Kohli - 775 rating points

Harry Brook - 773 rating points

Babar Azam - 768 rating points

Usman Khawaja - 764 rating points

Rohit Sharma - 748 rating points

New Zealand's former captain Kane Williamson continues to hold the top spot with Australia's No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne also making a jump, by three spots.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-rohit-sharma-aims-to-equal-former-captain-ms-dhonis-historic-feat-on-t20i-comeback-678514">Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma aims to equal former captain MS Dhoni's HISTORIC feat on T20I comeback</a>

ICC Test Rankings for bowlers&nbsp;

R Ashwin - 863 rating points

Pat Cummins - 858 rating points

Kagiso Rabada - 851 rating points

Jasprit Bumrah - 787 rating points

Ravindra Jadeja - 774 rating points

Ollie Robinson - 762 rating points

James Anderson - 761 rating points

Josh Hazlewood - 761 rating points

Mitchell Starc - 753 rating points

Prabath Jayasuriya - 751 rating points

Despite R Ashwin missing India's final Test versus South Africa, he holds the top position. Australian captain Cummins has closed in the gap with Ashwin. Josh Hazlewood has also equalled with England's veteran James Anderson, at the seventh spot, following his good run in Australia's third and final Test win over Pakistan at the SCG, Sydney. In the match, Hazlewood ended with five wickets (including four from the second innings).&nbsp;

Ravindra Jadeja remains the top all-rounder in the purest format, with a rating points of 434. Meanwhile, Australia have dethroned India to become the No. 1 ranked side in Tests following India's drawn series versus South Africa in the African nation. The Aussies inflicted a series whitewash over Pakistan, which ended on Jan 6, with a 3-0 scoreline and will look to bolster their lead in the upcoming home Tests versus West Indies.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has jumped three spots to claim the sixth position in the latest ICC Test Rankings for batters whereas Indian captain Rohit Sharma entered the top 10 following his crucial knocks in India's second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town.

Virat Kohli has jumped three spots to claim the sixth position in the latest ICC Test Rankings for batters whereas Indian captain Rohit Sharma entered the top 10 following his crucial knocks in India's second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town. In the bowling list, India's pace duo Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah -- both of whom accounted for five-fers in the Cape Town win -- has also improved their rankings whereas Kagiso Rabada, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and R Ashwin remained at top. ICC Test Rankings for batters Kane Williamson - 864 rating points Joe Root - 859 rating points Steve Smith - 818 rating points Marnus Labuschagne - 802 rating points Daryl Mitchell - 786 rating points Virat Kohli - 775 rating points Harry Brook - 773 rating points Babar Azam - 768 rating points Usman Khawaja - 764 rating points Rohit Sharma - 748 rating points New Zealand's former captain Kane Williamson continues to hold the top spot with Australia's No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne also making a jump, by three spots. Also read: Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma aims to equal former captain MS Dhoni's HISTORIC feat on T20I comeback ICC Test Rankings for bowlers R Ashwin - 863 rating points Pat Cummins - 858 rating points Kagiso Rabada - 851 rating points Jasprit Bumrah - 787 rating points Ravindra Jadeja - 774 rating points Ollie Robinson - 762 rating points James Anderson - 761 rating points Josh Hazlewood - 761 rating points Mitchell Starc - 753 rating points Prabath Jayasuriya - 751 rating points Despite R Ashwin missing India's final Test versus South Africa, he holds the top position. Australian captain Cummins has closed in the gap with Ashwin. Josh Hazlewood has also equalled with England's veteran James Anderson, at the seventh spot, following his good run in Australia's third and final Test win over Pakistan at the SCG, Sydney. In the match, Hazlewood ended with five wickets (including four from the second innings). Ravindra Jadeja remains the top all-rounder in the purest format, with a rating points of 434. Meanwhile, Australia have dethroned India to become the No. 1 ranked side in Tests following India's drawn series versus South Africa in the African nation. The Aussies inflicted a series whitewash over Pakistan, which ended on Jan 6, with a 3-0 scoreline and will look to bolster their lead in the upcoming home Tests versus West Indies.

ICC Test Rankings: Virat Kohli jumps three spots to claim 6th position, Rohit Sharma enters top 10

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli marked their return to India's T20I setup when the BCCI selectors announced the national side's 16-man squad for the upcoming three-match series versus Afghanistan at home. Rohit and Kohli have not played a T20I since India's 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final loss to eventual winners England in Adelaide. As the three T20Is versus the Afghans&nbsp;get&nbsp;underway on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali, Rohit is on the cusp of equalling MS Dhoni's historic captaincy record.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that Rohit&nbsp;has 39 wins in 51 T20Is. On the other hand, former skipper Dhoni ended his T20I captaincy tenure&nbsp;winning 42 out of 72 matches. Hence, if India inflict a series whitewash over the Afghans, Rohit will level Dhoni as the joint-most successful India captain in men's T20Is. With India gearing up for the 2024 T20 WC, to be held in West Indies and USA in June, it will certainly boost Rohit's confidence if he levels with Dhoni, India's sole T20 WC-winning captain.&nbsp;

<h3>MOST WINS AS T20I CAPTAIN</h3>

Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan) - 42

MS Dhoni (India) - 42

Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 42

Eoin Morgan (England) - 42

Brian Masaba (Uganda) - 42

Aaron Finch (Australia) - 40

Rohit Sharma (India) – 39

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-south-africa-player-cites-virat-kohlis-example-to-keep-tests-as-priority-over-t20-leagues-678327">Former South Africa player cites Virat Kohli's example to give Tests priority over T20 leagues</a>

Under Rohit, India have achieved considerable success in T20Is. They beat Sri Lanka (home), West Indies (home and away), and England (away) since he became the permanent T20I captain. Before that, he led India to the Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka&nbsp;in early 2018 when then-all-format captain Kohli was rested. At present, India are the No. 1 ranked side in the format.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli marked their return to India's T20I setup when the BCCI selectors announced the national side's 16-man squad for the upcoming three-match series versus Afghanistan at home.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli marked their return to India's T20I setup when the BCCI selectors announced the national side's 16-man squad for the upcoming three-match series versus Afghanistan at home. Rohit and Kohli have not played a T20I since India's 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final loss to eventual winners England in Adelaide. As the three T20Is versus the Afghans get underway on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali, Rohit is on the cusp of equalling MS Dhoni's historic captaincy record. It is to be noted that Rohit has 39 wins in 51 T20Is. On the other hand, former skipper Dhoni ended his T20I captaincy tenure winning 42 out of 72 matches. Hence, if India inflict a series whitewash over the Afghans, Rohit will level Dhoni as the joint-most successful India captain in men's T20Is. With India gearing up for the 2024 T20 WC, to be held in West Indies and USA in June, it will certainly boost Rohit's confidence if he levels with Dhoni, India's sole T20 WC-winning captain. MOST WINS AS T20I CAPTAIN Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan) - 42 MS Dhoni (India) - 42 Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 42 Eoin Morgan (England) - 42 Brian Masaba (Uganda) - 42 Aaron Finch (Australia) - 40 Rohit Sharma (India) – 39 Also read: Former South Africa player cites Virat Kohli's example to give Tests priority over T20 leagues Under Rohit, India have achieved considerable success in T20Is. They beat Sri Lanka (home), West Indies (home and away), and England (away) since he became the permanent T20I captain. Before that, he led India to the Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka in early 2018 when then-all-format captain Kohli was rested. At present, India are the No. 1 ranked side in the format. India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma aims to equal former captain MS Dhoni's HISTORIC feat on T20I comeback

On Tuesday (Jan 9), Indian&nbsp;pacer Mohammed Shami was bestowed with the Arjuna Award by the President of India,&nbsp;Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards. Shami's name was recommended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following his sensational run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he finished with the most wickets (24) with a best of 7 for 57 in the semi-final match versus New Zealand.

Later, after receiving the prestigious award, Shami wrote on X saying, "Today I am feeling very proud that I have been honoured with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President. I want to thank all those people who have helped me a lot to reach here and have always supported me in my ups and downs... thanks to My Coach, BCCI, teammates, family, and staff and big thanks to my fans. Thanks for recognising my hard work. I will always try to give my best to make my country proud... Again thanks to everyone.. Congratulations to other Arjua award winners."

Other Arjuna Award winners include Murali Sreeshankar (Athletics), Aditi Swami (Archery), Diksha Dagar( (Golf), Pawan Kumar (Kabaddi), Sunil Kumar (Wrestling), Ajay Reddy (Blind Cricket), etc.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-world-cup-winners-nominated-for-icc-mens-cricketer-of-the-year-2023-award-677935">Virat Kohli, World Cup winners nominated for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023 award</a>

HERE IS THE VIDEO OF SHAMI RECEIVING THE ARJUNA AWARD (SECOND-HIGHEST SPORTING HONOUR OF INDIA)

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A memorable moment for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> pacer Mohd. Shami who is conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards 👏🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalSportsAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalSportsAwards</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MdShami11</a> <a href="https://t.co/zYXldurEU1">pic.twitter.com/zYXldurEU1</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1744638099110633746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Talking about Shami's performance in the ODI WC, he was not part of the Indian playing XI for the first four games. An injury to Hardik Pandya led to his entry into the XI and Shami made a mark in his very first game, versus New Zealand in Dharamshala, with a 5 for 54. He attained another five-fer in India's face-off versus Sri Lanka in the group stage, with a 5 for 18 before claiming his third five-wicket haul in the mega tournament, during the semifinal encounter versus the Kiwis where he accounted for 7 for 57 in a high-scoring thriller.&nbsp;

Apart from Shami, as many as 25 more athletes were bestowed with the Arjuna Award; a list majorly dominated by India's top performers in their historic run in the 2023 Asian Games in China. In the showpiece event, India outperformed themselves with a record tally of 107 medals.

On Tuesday (Jan 9), Indian pacer Mohammed Shami was bestowed with the Arjuna Award by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards. Shami's name was recommended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following his sensational run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he finished with the most wickets (24) with a best of 7 for 57 in the semi-final match versus New Zealand.

On Tuesday (Jan 9), Indian pacer Mohammed Shami was bestowed with the Arjuna Award by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards. Shami's name was recommended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following his sensational run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he finished with the most wickets (24) with a best of 7 for 57 in the semi-final match versus New Zealand. Later, after receiving the prestigious award, Shami wrote on X saying, "Today I am feeling very proud that I have been honoured with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President. I want to thank all those people who have helped me a lot to reach here and have always supported me in my ups and downs... thanks to My Coach, BCCI, teammates, family, and staff and big thanks to my fans. Thanks for recognising my hard work. I will always try to give my best to make my country proud... Again thanks to everyone.. Congratulations to other Arjua award winners." Other Arjuna Award winners include Murali Sreeshankar (Athletics), Aditi Swami (Archery), Diksha Dagar( (Golf), Pawan Kumar (Kabaddi), Sunil Kumar (Wrestling), Ajay Reddy (Blind Cricket), etc. Also read: Virat Kohli, World Cup winners nominated for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023 award HERE IS THE VIDEO OF SHAMI RECEIVING THE ARJUNA AWARD (SECOND-HIGHEST SPORTING HONOUR OF INDIA) A memorable moment for #TeamIndia pacer Mohd. Shami who is conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards 👏🏆#NationalSportsAwards | @rashtrapatibhvn | @MdShami11 pic.twitter.com/zYXldurEU1 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 9, 2024 × Talking about Shami's performance in the ODI WC, he was not part of the Indian playing XI for the first four games. An injury to Hardik Pandya led to his entry into the XI and Shami made a mark in his very first game, versus New Zealand in Dharamshala, with a 5 for 54. He attained another five-fer in India's face-off versus Sri Lanka in the group stage, with a 5 for 18 before claiming his third five-wicket haul in the mega tournament, during the semifinal encounter versus the Kiwis where he accounted for 7 for 57 in a high-scoring thriller. Apart from Shami, as many as 25 more athletes were bestowed with the Arjuna Award; a list majorly dominated by India's top performers in their historic run in the 2023 Asian Games in China. In the showpiece event, India outperformed themselves with a record tally of 107 medals.

India pacer Mohammed Shami receives prestigious Arjuna Award from President Droupadi Murmu - Watch

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Sunday (Jan 7), announced India's squad for the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. The squad saw the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I setup after the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final. The two had not been part of India's T20I scheme of things since then. Their return has now potentially sealed their spots for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. The squad does not comprise KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer whereas Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are out of action due to injury concerns.&nbsp;

Former Indian stumper Saba Karim opened up on India's squad. He feels the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors have opted for Rohit and Kohli as they want experience in the T20 WC squad. In addition, Hardik-- who led India majorly in the format in Rohit-Kohli's absence -- has been hit with injury concerns of late and, hence, Rohit's return as India captain makes sense.

<h2>'Selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but...'</h2>

During a discussion on&nbsp;Sports 18, Karim said,&nbsp;“There is no doubt now (on Rohit-Kohli receiving the backing of selectors to feature in India's squad at 2024&nbsp;T20 WC). Now that you have included both these players against Afghanistan, it means there has been a massive change in the selectors' thinking. They feel they need experience for the World Cup. That's why Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have made a comeback. There is another thing. Until now, the selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but questions are being raised because of Hardik Pandya's injury. That's why the selectors have gone back to Rohit Sharma to bring stability, both as a captain and a batter."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-signs-suggest-that-rohit-sharma-is-going-to-lead-india-in-t20-wc-feels-former-player-kris-srikkanth-677732">All signs suggest Rohit Sharma will lead India in T20 WC, says former player Kris Srikkanth</a>

Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a strong statement in the upcoming three T20Is versus Afghanistan, which gets underway on Jan 11 (Thursday) in Mohali.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Sunday (Jan 7), announced India's squad for the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. The squad saw the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I setup after the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Sunday (Jan 7), announced India's squad for the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. The squad saw the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I setup after the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final. The two had not been part of India's T20I scheme of things since then. Their return has now potentially sealed their spots for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. The squad does not comprise KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer whereas Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are out of action due to injury concerns. Former Indian stumper Saba Karim opened up on India's squad. He feels the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors have opted for Rohit and Kohli as they want experience in the T20 WC squad. In addition, Hardik-- who led India majorly in the format in Rohit-Kohli's absence -- has been hit with injury concerns of late and, hence, Rohit's return as India captain makes sense. 'Selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but...' During a discussion on Sports 18, Karim said, “There is no doubt now (on Rohit-Kohli receiving the backing of selectors to feature in India's squad at 2024 T20 WC). Now that you have included both these players against Afghanistan, it means there has been a massive change in the selectors' thinking. They feel they need experience for the World Cup. That's why Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have made a comeback. There is another thing. Until now, the selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but questions are being raised because of Hardik Pandya's injury. That's why the selectors have gone back to Rohit Sharma to bring stability, both as a captain and a batter." Also read: All signs suggest Rohit Sharma will lead India in T20 WC, says former player Kris Srikkanth Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a strong statement in the upcoming three T20Is versus Afghanistan, which gets underway on Jan 11 (Thursday) in Mohali. India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

Ind vs Afg T20Is: Ex-Indian stumper on why BCCI selectors have backed Rohit Sharma as India captain

On Sunday (Jan 7), the BCCI selectors announced India's squad for the upcoming home T20Is versus Afghanistan, starting on Jan 11 in Mohali. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headlined the squad announcement as the duo returned to the T20I setup after&nbsp;a gap of one year.&nbsp;Since India's semi-final exit in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, the two had not played a T20I but their return has bolstered India's plans for the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA.&nbsp;

With white-ball vice-captain Hardik Pandya nursing an injury, there are strong chances of hitman Rohit&nbsp;leading India in the forthcoming ICC event. Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth feels all signs suggest that Rohit will&nbsp;captain India in the upcoming edition of the T20 WC.

Srikkanth&nbsp;on his YouTube channel said, "All signs suggest that Rohit Sharma is going to lead India in T20 World Cup. That’s how it’s going. The very fact that he is made captain now,&nbsp;yes, Hardik Pandya is injured, Suryakumar Yadav, who was the deputy, is also not available due to injury. Jasprit Bumrah is also not there. Rohit Sharma will be the captain. See, Mumbai Indians making Hardik Pandya captain is the franchise’s choice. From the team selection, Rohit Sharma will only captain India in T20 World Cup in all probability. It’s moving toward that."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-selectors-looking-beyond-wicketkeeper-ishan-kishan-in-t20is-says-report-677687">BCCI selectors 'looking beyond' wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan in T20Is, says report</a>

<h2>'The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him'</h2>

Further, Srikkanth feels Rohit will play aggressively at the top as his hunger to win a World Cup as a captain remains unfulfilled despite India's dream run in the 2023 ODI WC at home.

"Rohit will play with total freedom in the IPL. He will play attacking cricket, like he did in the World Cup. The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him. If India had beaten Australia on November 19, things would have been different. He now wants to win a World Cup as a captain. A T20 World Cup is a World Cup at the end of the day. He would love to achieve it. Yes, 50-over World Cup is considered big, but if you win a T20 World Cup, you are still a World Cup-winning captain," Srikkanth added.

"At the end of the day, he wants to prove a point to himself. He seems to be determined to win a World Cup as captain," the 1983 ODI World Cup-winning member concluded.&nbsp;

Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a mark versus Afghanistan, which is India's last T20I series before the T20 WC in June. The series gets underway on Jan 11 in Mohali.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

On Sunday (Jan 7), the BCCI selectors announced India's squad for the upcoming home T20Is versus Afghanistan, starting on Jan 11 in Mohali. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headlined the squad announcement as the duo returned to the T20I setup after a gap of one year.

On Sunday (Jan 7), the BCCI selectors announced India's squad for the upcoming home T20Is versus Afghanistan, starting on Jan 11 in Mohali. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headlined the squad announcement as the duo returned to the T20I setup after a gap of one year. Since India's semi-final exit in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, the two had not played a T20I but their return has bolstered India's plans for the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA. With white-ball vice-captain Hardik Pandya nursing an injury, there are strong chances of hitman Rohit leading India in the forthcoming ICC event. Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth feels all signs suggest that Rohit will captain India in the upcoming edition of the T20 WC. Srikkanth on his YouTube channel said, "All signs suggest that Rohit Sharma is going to lead India in T20 World Cup. That’s how it’s going. The very fact that he is made captain now, yes, Hardik Pandya is injured, Suryakumar Yadav, who was the deputy, is also not available due to injury. Jasprit Bumrah is also not there. Rohit Sharma will be the captain. See, Mumbai Indians making Hardik Pandya captain is the franchise’s choice. From the team selection, Rohit Sharma will only captain India in T20 World Cup in all probability. It’s moving toward that." Also read: BCCI selectors 'looking beyond' wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan in T20Is, says report 'The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him' Further, Srikkanth feels Rohit will play aggressively at the top as his hunger to win a World Cup as a captain remains unfulfilled despite India's dream run in the 2023 ODI WC at home. "Rohit will play with total freedom in the IPL. He will play attacking cricket, like he did in the World Cup. The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him. If India had beaten Australia on November 19, things would have been different. He now wants to win a World Cup as a captain. A T20 World Cup is a World Cup at the end of the day. He would love to achieve it. Yes, 50-over World Cup is considered big, but if you win a T20 World Cup, you are still a World Cup-winning captain," Srikkanth added. "At the end of the day, he wants to prove a point to himself. He seems to be determined to win a World Cup as captain," the 1983 ODI World Cup-winning member concluded. Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a mark versus Afghanistan, which is India's last T20I series before the T20 WC in June. The series gets underway on Jan 11 in Mohali. India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

All signs suggest Rohit Sharma will lead India in T20 WC, says former player Kris Srikkanth

KL Rahul has had a great run in international cricket since his return from injury during the Asia Cup 2023 edition. He scored a hundred in his first appearance in the continental tournament, eventually won by India in Sri Lanka. He amassed 452 runs in the home ODI World Cup (with a century and two fifties) and scored a majestic 101 in India's just-concluded two-match Test series opener versus South Africa, in Centurion.

Rahul has said that he is open to being flexible in the batting order. Asked if he wants to comeback in the T20I setup, the wicketkeeper-batter stated that he simply wants to keep&nbsp;playing more and more and helping his team win&nbsp;games.

<h2>'Keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will'</h2>

After India's Cape Town Test win over SA, on Thursday (Jan 4), Rahul told Star Sports, "When they ask me to do any job, I just tell them 'keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will'. I want to play more and more matches. Unfortunately, because of injuries, I have missed a lot of matches, not just this injury, I have been injured quite a lot."

He further said, "Looking back, I am 31 now, but I have been playing since I was 22 for the country. But, if you look at it, I have not played a lot of matches. When Vijay and Shikhar were playing in Tests, and when Rohit and Shikhar were playing in ODI cricket, I had to wait for a lot of time. And when I got my chances, I got injured. So I have really missed out on a lot of cricket.

"I am in a mind space where I am open to playing anywhere, but I just want to play matches. I just want to do well for my country and go and enjoy my game in the middle," Rahul added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-pak-scg-test-hazlewoods-4-fer-stuns-pakistan-after-aamer-jamal-669-gives-visitors-slender-lead-676867">Aus vs Pak, SCG Test: Hazlewood's 4-for stuns Pakistan after Aamer Jamal 6/69 gives visitors slender lead</a>

In T20Is, Rahul has&nbsp;2,265 runs in&nbsp;72 matches at a strike rate of 139.12. He, however, managed only 128 runs in six games during India's&nbsp;T20 WC run in Australia in 2022. His strike rate was an ordinary&nbsp;120.75 and, hence, he has not been given a chance&nbsp;since then (along with seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli).

Given the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors are set to announce the Indian&nbsp;squad for the home T20Is versus Afghanistan,&nbsp;over the weekend, it remains to be seen if Rahul returns to the team. It has been widely reported that Rahul is keen to bat in the middle-order across formats. For that, he is even keen to play in the middle-order for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, with an eye on the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA.

Rahul has enough experience batting in the middle-order. He has excelled in that position&nbsp;in the ODIs and even did well in the recently concluded SA Tests.&nbsp;

He pointed out, "First time, I think I got that role in 2017 when we toured Sri Lanka. I got 2 to 3 chances, but I didn't really do well and after that I was out of the team. At No. 4 and No. 5, what I found the most difficult is, that when I go in and I am unsettled, everyone else around me is settled. They know how the pitch is playing and they know the tempo of the game. I have to go and try and adjust to that scenario. That was the hardest thing for me."

"I won't say playing against the new ball is easy. But, at times, the fast bowler will try a few things and you get a loose ball. But at No. 5, you rarely get something like that. So, it has helped me to keep myself a little bit calmer and adjust to the situation of the game. If I think that way, it becomes easy. If I am thinking about my own game, then it becomes difficult," he added.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if Rahul is included in the T20I setup going forward. Currently, he is in superb form in the longer formats.

KL Rahul has had a great run in international cricket since his return from injury during the Asia Cup 2023 edition. He scored a hundred in his first appearance in the continental tournament, eventually won by India in Sri Lanka.

KL Rahul has had a great run in international cricket since his return from injury during the Asia Cup 2023 edition. He scored a hundred in his first appearance in the continental tournament, eventually won by India in Sri Lanka. He amassed 452 runs in the home ODI World Cup (with a century and two fifties) and scored a majestic 101 in India's just-concluded two-match Test series opener versus South Africa, in Centurion. Rahul has said that he is open to being flexible in the batting order. Asked if he wants to comeback in the T20I setup, the wicketkeeper-batter stated that he simply wants to keep playing more and more and helping his team win games. 'Keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will' After India's Cape Town Test win over SA, on Thursday (Jan 4), Rahul told Star Sports, "When they ask me to do any job, I just tell them 'keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will'. I want to play more and more matches. Unfortunately, because of injuries, I have missed a lot of matches, not just this injury, I have been injured quite a lot." He further said, "Looking back, I am 31 now, but I have been playing since I was 22 for the country. But, if you look at it, I have not played a lot of matches. When Vijay and Shikhar were playing in Tests, and when Rohit and Shikhar were playing in ODI cricket, I had to wait for a lot of time. And when I got my chances, I got injured. So I have really missed out on a lot of cricket. "I am in a mind space where I am open to playing anywhere, but I just want to play matches. I just want to do well for my country and go and enjoy my game in the middle," Rahul added. Also read: Aus vs Pak, SCG Test: Hazlewood's 4-for stuns Pakistan after Aamer Jamal 6/69 gives visitors slender lead In T20Is, Rahul has 2,265 runs in 72 matches at a strike rate of 139.12. He, however, managed only 128 runs in six games during India's T20 WC run in Australia in 2022. His strike rate was an ordinary 120.75 and, hence, he has not been given a chance since then (along with seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli). Given the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors are set to announce the Indian squad for the home T20Is versus Afghanistan, over the weekend, it remains to be seen if Rahul returns to the team. It has been widely reported that Rahul is keen to bat in the middle-order across formats. For that, he is even keen to play in the middle-order for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, with an eye on the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA. Rahul has enough experience batting in the middle-order. He has excelled in that position in the ODIs and even did well in the recently concluded SA Tests. He pointed out, "First time, I think I got that role in 2017 when we toured Sri Lanka. I got 2 to 3 chances, but I didn't really do well and after that I was out of the team. At No. 4 and No. 5, what I found the most difficult is, that when I go in and I am unsettled, everyone else around me is settled. They know how the pitch is playing and they know the tempo of the game. I have to go and try and adjust to that scenario. That was the hardest thing for me." "I won't say playing against the new ball is easy. But, at times, the fast bowler will try a few things and you get a loose ball. But at No. 5, you rarely get something like that. So, it has helped me to keep myself a little bit calmer and adjust to the situation of the game. If I think that way, it becomes easy. If I am thinking about my own game, then it becomes difficult," he added. It will be interesting to see if Rahul is included in the T20I setup going forward. Currently, he is in superb form in the longer formats.

'Keep me in playing XI, ready to be flexible': KL Rahul eager to return to T20I ahead of World Cup

Team India is expected to kick off their campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 5 when they face Ireland. Four days later, they will be taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York as the Men in Blue will play their group stage matches in the USA. If they qualify for the Super 8, they will play all their games in the West Indies, according to sources.

India's group stage schedule will see them facing the Irish camp on June 5, followed by a marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9. They will then take on co-hosts USA on June 12 before ending their group stage run versus Canada on June 15. All these&nbsp;games will be held in New York whereas their face-off versus Canada will take place in Florida.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2nd-test-india-hold-the-edge-as-day-1-ends-with-23-wickets-falling-in-cape-town-676294">SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town</a>

T20 World Cup 2024 schedule for India in the group stages:

India vs Ireland - June 5 (New York) 
India vs Pakistan - June 9 (New York) 
India vs USA - June 12 (New York) 
India vs Canada - June 15 (Florida)

As per sources, India will play all their Super 8 encounters in the West Indies should they reach that far. Their first game is likely to take place on June 20&nbsp;in Barbados, whereas the tournament final is also expected to be held at the same venue&nbsp;on June 29.&nbsp;

India will be chasing their second T20 WC title after MS Dhoni-led team's glorious triumph in 2007, during the inaugural edition in South Africa. Since then, they have reached the semi-finals thrice and played the 2014 edition's final as well, where they lost to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature in India's T20 WC squad. The duo have not played the format since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide.&nbsp;

Team India is expected to kick off their campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 5 when they face Ireland. Four days later, they will be taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York as the Men in Blue will play their group stage matches in the USA.

Team India is expected to kick off their campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 5 when they face Ireland. Four days later, they will be taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York as the Men in Blue will play their group stage matches in the USA. If they qualify for the Super 8, they will play all their games in the West Indies, according to sources. India's group stage schedule will see them facing the Irish camp on June 5, followed by a marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9. They will then take on co-hosts USA on June 12 before ending their group stage run versus Canada on June 15. All these games will be held in New York whereas their face-off versus Canada will take place in Florida. Also read: SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town T20 World Cup 2024 schedule for India in the group stages: India vs Ireland - June 5 (New York) India vs Pakistan - June 9 (New York) India vs USA - June 12 (New York) India vs Canada - June 15 (Florida) As per sources, India will play all their Super 8 encounters in the West Indies should they reach that far. Their first game is likely to take place on June 20 in Barbados, whereas the tournament final is also expected to be held at the same venue on June 29. India will be chasing their second T20 WC title after MS Dhoni-led team's glorious triumph in 2007, during the inaugural edition in South Africa. Since then, they have reached the semi-finals thrice and played the 2014 edition's final as well, where they lost to Sri Lanka. It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature in India's T20 WC squad. The duo have not played the format since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide.

T20 WC 2024: India to kickoff campaign vs Ireland, set to face Pakistan on June 9, final likely in Barbados

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc with the ball as his 6 for 15 propelled India to a strong position at stumps on Day One of the second and final Test versus South Africa, in Cape Town on Wednesday (Jan 3). Being asked to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India rode on Siraj's six-fer to dismiss SA for a paltry 55 (their lowest score versus India in Tests and lowest-ever by any side against the same opposition in the format).

After SA's 55, India only managed 153 in reply to take a 98-run lead. The day's play ended with hosts 62 for 3, trailing by 36 runs. Thus, India ended on top courtesy of Siraj's six-fer. Post stumps, Siraj spoke to India's bowling coach Paras&nbsp;Mhambrey in a video released on BCCI's official website. In the video, he revealed that it didn't look like a 55 all-out pitch to him early in the morning.

Siraj said, "When I saw the wicket in morning, it didn't feel it was a 55-all out wicket. It was quite sunny, so I didn't expect the pitch to assist that much. Also, bowling is all about partnerships. There was consistent pressure from Jasprit Bumrah at the other end. He didn't get many wickets but he created a lot of pressure."

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From starting the year perfectly with the ball to his bowling partnership with vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah 🤝 😎 <a href="https://twitter.com/mdsirajofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mdsirajofficial</a> recaps Cape Town bowling heroics with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Bowling Coach Paras Mhambrey 👌🏻👌🏻 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a> 
 
WATCH the Full Interview 🎥🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1742577183170982390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2nd-test-india-hold-the-edge-as-day-1-ends-with-23-wickets-falling-in-cape-town-676294">SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town</a>

Siraj further opined that&nbsp;bowlers should not look to overwork themselves on such surfaces and if one tries&nbsp;many things, it could end up confusing them and being unfruitful.&nbsp;

He added, "On these wickets, where ball is doing so much, often bowlers tend to think, ‘let me try and bowl an outswinger darting from leg to off or get one to bend back from angle but one should just stick to one line. If you hit areas, wickets will come automatically. If you try many things, you can get confused."

India, on Day Two (Thursday), will look to wrap up SA's second innings as soon as possible as any target over 100 can turn out to be challenging. The hosts lead the two-match series 1-0.

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc with the ball as his 6 for 15 propelled India to a strong position at stumps on Day One of the second and final Test versus South Africa, in Cape Town on Wednesday (Jan 3).

Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc with the ball as his 6 for 15 propelled India to a strong position at stumps on Day One of the second and final Test versus South Africa, in Cape Town on Wednesday (Jan 3). Being asked to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India rode on Siraj's six-fer to dismiss SA for a paltry 55 (their lowest score versus India in Tests and lowest-ever by any side against the same opposition in the format). After SA's 55, India only managed 153 in reply to take a 98-run lead. The day's play ended with hosts 62 for 3, trailing by 36 runs. Thus, India ended on top courtesy of Siraj's six-fer. Post stumps, Siraj spoke to India's bowling coach Paras Mhambrey in a video released on BCCI's official website. In the video, he revealed that it didn't look like a 55 all-out pitch to him early in the morning. Siraj said, "When I saw the wicket in morning, it didn't feel it was a 55-all out wicket. It was quite sunny, so I didn't expect the pitch to assist that much. Also, bowling is all about partnerships. There was consistent pressure from Jasprit Bumrah at the other end. He didn't get many wickets but he created a lot of pressure." From starting the year perfectly with the ball to his bowling partnership with vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah 🤝 😎 @mdsirajofficial recaps Cape Town bowling heroics with #TeamIndia Bowling Coach Paras Mhambrey 👌🏻👌🏻 - By @RajalArora WATCH the Full Interview 🎥🔽 #SAvIND — BCCI (@BCCI) January 3, 2024 × Also read: SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town Siraj further opined that bowlers should not look to overwork themselves on such surfaces and if one tries many things, it could end up confusing them and being unfruitful. He added, "On these wickets, where ball is doing so much, often bowlers tend to think, ‘let me try and bowl an outswinger darting from leg to off or get one to bend back from angle but one should just stick to one line. If you hit areas, wickets will come automatically. If you try many things, you can get confused." India, on Day Two (Thursday), will look to wrap up SA's second innings as soon as possible as any target over 100 can turn out to be challenging. The hosts lead the two-match series 1-0.

'Didn't feel like a 55 all-out wicket': Mohammed Siraj after his 6 for 15 on Day 1 of Cape Town Test

Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of&nbsp;Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15. After the tea break, India were 153 for 4 before the SA pacers -- Lungi Ngidi (3 for 30), Kagiso Rabada (3 for 30) and Nandre Burger (3 for 42) -- combined to dismiss them at the&nbsp;same score.

Despite a 98-run lead, India weren't too ahead when Proteas came out to bat in the final session. At stumps, the hosts are 62 for 3 with debutant Mukesh Kumar striking twice. Thus, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., despite an ordinary performance with the bat, are ahead with a slender lead of 36. From SA's perspective, they have opener Aiden Markram (36 not out) in the middle, who&nbsp;will hope to take his side beyond India's lead and setup&nbsp;a stiff target. Needless to say, batting won't be easy on the second day as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-from-153-for-4-to-153-all-out-india-collapse-in-unimaginable-manner-in-reply-to-sas-55-676273">2nd Test: From 153 for 4 to 153 all-out! India collapse in UNIMAGINABLE manner in reply to SA's 55</a>

Talking about the entire day's play, Siraj wreaked havoc with a six-fer. He&nbsp;removed the likes of Aiden Markram, Elgar, Tony de Zorzi,&nbsp;David Bedingham,&nbsp;Kyle Verreynne and&nbsp;Marco Jansen as Proteas fell for their lowest score since readmission in 1992.&nbsp;

Lowest all-out totals for South Africa since their readmission 
55 vs India, Cape Town, 2024 
73 vs Sri Lanka, Galle, 2018 
79 vs India, Nagpur, 2015 
83 vs England, Johannesburg, 2016 
84 vs India, Johannesburg, 2006

Lowest all-out totals vs India in Tests 
55 - South Africa, Cape Town, 2024 
62 - New Zealand, Mumbai WS, 2021 
79 - South Africa, Nagpur, 2015 
81 - England, Ahmedabad, 2021 
82 - Sri Lanka, Chandigarh, 1990

In reply, India had a decent start and were 71 for 1 at one stage before being reduced to 110 for 4 and eventually&nbsp;falling for 153 --&nbsp;their last six wickets failing to add a single run (first-time ever in Test cricket history).

Most wickets falling on a particular score in a Test innings 
6 (153/4 to 153 all-out) - IND vs SA, Cape Town 2024 
5 (37/2 to 37/7) - NZ vs AUS, Wellington, 1946 
5 (59/4 to 59/9) - NZ vs PAK, Rawalpindi CC, 1965 
5 (133/2 to 133/7) - NZ vs SA, Hamilton, 2012 
5 (134/5 to 134 all-out) - BAN vs ZIM, Harare, 2013

In their second essay, SA lost Elgar twice on the day. The left-hander, who is playing his final Test, departed for 12 and received a standing ovation from the crowd. He is also leading the side with regular captain Temba Bavuma injured since Day One of the first Test in Centurion.&nbsp;

Most wickets on a single day in Tests 
27 - ENG vs AUS, Lord’s, 1888 (Day 2) 
25 - AUS vs ENG, Melbourne, 1902 (Day 1) 
24 - ENG vs AUS, The Oval, 1896 (Day 2) 
24 - IND vs AFG, Bengaluru, 2018 (Day 2) 
23 - SA vs AUS, Cape Town, 2011 (Day 2) 
23 - SA vs IND, Cape Town, 2024 (Day 1)

After an eventful Day One, all eyes are now on how the second day's play shapes up in Cape Town. SA lead the two-match series 1-0 after a big win in the&nbsp;opening Test.

Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15.

Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15. After the tea break, India were 153 for 4 before the SA pacers -- Lungi Ngidi (3 for 30), Kagiso Rabada (3 for 30) and Nandre Burger (3 for 42) -- combined to dismiss them at the same score. Despite a 98-run lead, India weren't too ahead when Proteas came out to bat in the final session. At stumps, the hosts are 62 for 3 with debutant Mukesh Kumar striking twice. Thus, Rohit Sharma & Co., despite an ordinary performance with the bat, are ahead with a slender lead of 36. From SA's perspective, they have opener Aiden Markram (36 not out) in the middle, who will hope to take his side beyond India's lead and setup a stiff target. Needless to say, batting won't be easy on the second day as well. Also read: 2nd Test: From 153 for 4 to 153 all-out! India collapse in UNIMAGINABLE manner in reply to SA's 55 Talking about the entire day's play, Siraj wreaked havoc with a six-fer. He removed the likes of Aiden Markram, Elgar, Tony de Zorzi, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen as Proteas fell for their lowest score since readmission in 1992. Lowest all-out totals for South Africa since their readmission 55 vs India, Cape Town, 2024 73 vs Sri Lanka, Galle, 2018 79 vs India, Nagpur, 2015 83 vs England, Johannesburg, 2016 84 vs India, Johannesburg, 2006 Lowest all-out totals vs India in Tests 55 - South Africa, Cape Town, 2024 62 - New Zealand, Mumbai WS, 2021 79 - South Africa, Nagpur, 2015 81 - England, Ahmedabad, 2021 82 - Sri Lanka, Chandigarh, 1990 In reply, India had a decent start and were 71 for 1 at one stage before being reduced to 110 for 4 and eventually falling for 153 -- their last six wickets failing to add a single run (first-time ever in Test cricket history). Most wickets falling on a particular score in a Test innings 6 (153/4 to 153 all-out) - IND vs SA, Cape Town 2024 5 (37/2 to 37/7) - NZ vs AUS, Wellington, 1946 5 (59/4 to 59/9) - NZ vs PAK, Rawalpindi CC, 1965 5 (133/2 to 133/7) - NZ vs SA, Hamilton, 2012 5 (134/5 to 134 all-out) - BAN vs ZIM, Harare, 2013 In their second essay, SA lost Elgar twice on the day. The left-hander, who is playing his final Test, departed for 12 and received a standing ovation from the crowd. He is also leading the side with regular captain Temba Bavuma injured since Day One of the first Test in Centurion. Most wickets on a single day in Tests 27 - ENG vs AUS, Lord’s, 1888 (Day 2) 25 - AUS vs ENG, Melbourne, 1902 (Day 1) 24 - ENG vs AUS, The Oval, 1896 (Day 2) 24 - IND vs AFG, Bengaluru, 2018 (Day 2) 23 - SA vs AUS, Cape Town, 2011 (Day 2) 23 - SA vs IND, Cape Town, 2024 (Day 1) After an eventful Day One, all eyes are now on how the second day's play shapes up in Cape Town. SA lead the two-match series 1-0 after a big win in the opening Test.

SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town

Before India takes on South Africa in the second and final Test, in Cape Town, former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., claiming they are 'overrated' in Tests and 'highly overrated' in T20Is. Srikkanth feels India are resting on past laurels in Test cricket, achieved during Virat Kohli's captaincy era, and feels&nbsp;the national side should not read much into the ICC Team Rankings, where they are No. 1 across formats.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "In T20 cricket India are highly over-rated. ODI cricket, we are a fantastic team. What happens in ODIs, in the semi-finals, finals, it's just a one-off match. It's a luck factor, a lot depends on luck in these matches. I read Rohit Sharma's statement, for a cricketer, the 50-over World Cup is a huge achievement. We are sometimes underperforming in the knockout matches, into the semi-finals and the final. But we are a gun side in ODI. Regardless of where we play, be it India, Australia or South Africa, we are a gun side."

<h2>'When Virat Kohli was the Test captain...'</h2>

He further stated, "Test cricket, we are over-rated. We have to make sure... I think it was a phase of 2-3 years... when Virat Kohli was the captain of the team, we were outstanding. We dominated in England, we fought hard in South Africa, we won in Australia. We had a good phase for 2-4 years. Yes, we were dominating in England, in Australia."

Srikkanth, however, feels that since then India have been resting on past laurels in the purest format. After Kohli quit&nbsp;Test captaincy, India lost the one-off Test versus England in July 2022, lost the WTC final in June 2023 and failed to win the first Test of the ongoing two-match&nbsp;series versus South Africa in Centurion, last month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tests-needs-to-be-protected-india-captain-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-cape-town-test-vs-sa-675934">Test cricket is the ultimate challenge: India captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Cape Town Test vs SA</a>

The 1983 World Cup-winner urged, "We have to forget ICC ranking. We are always 1-2, 1-2. It's a combination of having over-rated cricketers and people who have not performed up to their potential. Or there are players who have not enough chances like Kuldeeep (Yadav)."

"If you want to be the best team, you should be capable of being the giants in their home grounds. That is what we did when Rishabh Pant was firing. But you can keep on talking that we scored in Australia, we scored in England. You can sing the same song, you won't move forward if you rest on past laurels. You have to just look at how you have performed in the last 2 years, last 18 months," concluded Srikkanth.

India ended 2023 as the No. 1 ranked side across formats. However, they failed to win the WTC final and ended as runners-up even in the home ODI World Cup, which ended on Nov 19 last year.

India's last ICC triumph came in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni. Since then, they have competed very well in all major events but failed to grab hold of the silverware.

At present, Rohit &amp; Co. are gearing up for the two-match Test series finale versus hosts South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, which starts on Jan 3 (Wednesday). The visitors lost the first Test by an innings and 32 runs, in Centurion.

Before India takes on South Africa in the second and final Test, in Cape Town, former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at Rohit Sharma & Co.

Before India takes on South Africa in the second and final Test, in Cape Town, former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at Rohit Sharma & Co., claiming they are 'overrated' in Tests and 'highly overrated' in T20Is. Srikkanth feels India are resting on past laurels in Test cricket, achieved during Virat Kohli's captaincy era, and feels the national side should not read much into the ICC Team Rankings, where they are No. 1 across formats. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "In T20 cricket India are highly over-rated. ODI cricket, we are a fantastic team. What happens in ODIs, in the semi-finals, finals, it's just a one-off match. It's a luck factor, a lot depends on luck in these matches. I read Rohit Sharma's statement, for a cricketer, the 50-over World Cup is a huge achievement. We are sometimes underperforming in the knockout matches, into the semi-finals and the final. But we are a gun side in ODI. Regardless of where we play, be it India, Australia or South Africa, we are a gun side." 'When Virat Kohli was the Test captain...' He further stated, "Test cricket, we are over-rated. We have to make sure... I think it was a phase of 2-3 years... when Virat Kohli was the captain of the team, we were outstanding. We dominated in England, we fought hard in South Africa, we won in Australia. We had a good phase for 2-4 years. Yes, we were dominating in England, in Australia." Srikkanth, however, feels that since then India have been resting on past laurels in the purest format. After Kohli quit Test captaincy, India lost the one-off Test versus England in July 2022, lost the WTC final in June 2023 and failed to win the first Test of the ongoing two-match series versus South Africa in Centurion, last month. Also read: Test cricket is the ultimate challenge: India captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Cape Town Test vs SA The 1983 World Cup-winner urged, "We have to forget ICC ranking. We are always 1-2, 1-2. It's a combination of having over-rated cricketers and people who have not performed up to their potential. Or there are players who have not enough chances like Kuldeeep (Yadav)." "If you want to be the best team, you should be capable of being the giants in their home grounds. That is what we did when Rishabh Pant was firing. But you can keep on talking that we scored in Australia, we scored in England. You can sing the same song, you won't move forward if you rest on past laurels. You have to just look at how you have performed in the last 2 years, last 18 months," concluded Srikkanth. India ended 2023 as the No. 1 ranked side across formats. However, they failed to win the WTC final and ended as runners-up even in the home ODI World Cup, which ended on Nov 19 last year. India's last ICC triumph came in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni. Since then, they have competed very well in all major events but failed to grab hold of the silverware. At present, Rohit & Co. are gearing up for the two-match Test series finale versus hosts South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, which starts on Jan 3 (Wednesday). The visitors lost the first Test by an innings and 32 runs, in Centurion.

‘India overrated in Tests and highly overrated in T20Is’: Kris Srikkanth lashes out at Rohit Sharma & Co.

Riding on opener&nbsp;Phoebe Litchfield's 119 and captain&nbsp;Alyssa Healy's 82, Australia women thrashed India women by 190 runs in the third and final ODI on Tuesday (Jan 2). With this, the visitors have inflicted a series whitewash over the hosts, at the&nbsp;Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, after conceding the only Test by eight wickets. It marks as a record win for Australia with nothing clicking for Harmanpreet Kaur &amp; Co. from the word go.

Winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first. Their openers Phoebe and Alyssa stitched a record 189-run stand for the first wicket, highest partnership by any pair versus the Indian eves in the format, to set the tone for a big total. After their dismissals, runs continued to flow as&nbsp;Ashleigh Gardner (30), Annabel Sutherland (23),&nbsp;Alana King (26) and&nbsp;Ellyse Perry (16) added to the scoreboard. Thus, Australia ended with the highest total by any team versus Harman &amp; Co. in women's ODI; 338 for 7.&nbsp;

From India's perspective, only youngster Shreyanka Patil (3 for 57) and all-rounder Deepti Sharma (1 for 53) conceded under&nbsp;six&nbsp;among those who completed their full quota of overs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-lauds-indian-cricket-for-successful-2023-barring-just-one-bad-day-in-odi-world-cup-final-675492">Sunil Gavaskar LAUDS Indian cricket for successful 2023 barring ‘just one bad day’ in ODI World Cup final</a>

In reply, the home side never got going. Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain, got a start (29) whereas the likes of Jemimah Rodrigues&nbsp;and in-form Deepti (25 apiece) crossed the 20-run mark. As a result, India were bundled out for a paltry 148&nbsp;in 32.4 overs to lose by a whopping 190-run margin.&nbsp;

With this, Australia have gained momentum heading into the three T20Is, which gets underway on Friday (Jan 5) in Navi Mumbai.

Riding on opener Phoebe Litchfield's 119 and captain Alyssa Healy's 82, Australia women thrashed India women by 190 runs in the third and final ODI on Tuesday (Jan 2).

Riding on opener Phoebe Litchfield's 119 and captain Alyssa Healy's 82, Australia women thrashed India women by 190 runs in the third and final ODI on Tuesday (Jan 2). With this, the visitors have inflicted a series whitewash over the hosts, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, after conceding the only Test by eight wickets. It marks as a record win for Australia with nothing clicking for Harmanpreet Kaur & Co. from the word go. Winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first. Their openers Phoebe and Alyssa stitched a record 189-run stand for the first wicket, highest partnership by any pair versus the Indian eves in the format, to set the tone for a big total. After their dismissals, runs continued to flow as Ashleigh Gardner (30), Annabel Sutherland (23), Alana King (26) and Ellyse Perry (16) added to the scoreboard. Thus, Australia ended with the highest total by any team versus Harman & Co. in women's ODI; 338 for 7. From India's perspective, only youngster Shreyanka Patil (3 for 57) and all-rounder Deepti Sharma (1 for 53) conceded under six among those who completed their full quota of overs. Also read: Sunil Gavaskar LAUDS Indian cricket for successful 2023 barring ‘just one bad day’ in ODI World Cup final In reply, the home side never got going. Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain, got a start (29) whereas the likes of Jemimah Rodrigues and in-form Deepti (25 apiece) crossed the 20-run mark. As a result, India were bundled out for a paltry 148 in 32.4 overs to lose by a whopping 190-run margin. With this, Australia have gained momentum heading into the three T20Is, which gets underway on Friday (Jan 5) in Navi Mumbai.

Records tumble as Australia women thrash India in 3rd ODI, inflict series whitewash

India will lock horns with South Africa in the second and final Test at&nbsp;Newlands,&nbsp;Cape Town&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jan 3). After losing the series opener, in Centurion, by an innings and 32 runs, India have their task cut out to end the series at 1-1. The visitors have already lost a golden opportunity to win their maiden Test series on African soil&nbsp;but they will hope to end it on a high.

Captain Rohit Sharma is also aiming to equal former Indian skipper MS Dhoni's rare captaincy feat. If India win the second Test, in Cape Town, Rohit will become only the second Indian captain after Dhoni to avoid a Test series loss in South Africa. So far, India have toured the African nation for Test series on nine occasions since 1992. Only once have they managed to draw a red-ball series in the Rainbow nation. Under Dhoni, India achieved the rare feat during their 2010-11 tour of South Africa.

Back then, Dhoni-led India drew a three-match Test series at 1-1. Thus, Rohit will look to become the second Indian captain to achieve this elite feat. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-pak-3rd-test-shaheen-afridi-rested-for-dead-rubber-clash-at-scg-imam-dropped-in-favour-of-saim-ayub-675786">AUS vs PAK, 3rd Test: Shaheen Afridi rested for dead-rubber clash at SCG; Imam dropped in favour of Saim Ayub</a>

Talking about the first Test, South Africa won the toss and opted to field first. They bundled out India for 245 with KL Rahul top-scoring with a majestic 101. Kagiso Rabada ended with 5 for 59. In reply, the Proteas rode on Dean Elgar's impressive 185,&nbsp;Marco Jansen's 84 and&nbsp;David Bedingham's 56 to post 408 all-out. With a lead of 163, the home side dismissed the Indians for a paltry 131 with Nandre Burger, 4 for 33, and Jansen 3 for 36 leading the charge with the ball.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India will look to put up a more clinical performance this time around&nbsp;and end the series at 1-1.

India will lock horns with South Africa in the second and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (Jan 3). After losing the series opener, in Centurion, by an innings and 32 runs, India have their task cut out to end the series at 1-1.

India will lock horns with South Africa in the second and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (Jan 3). After losing the series opener, in Centurion, by an innings and 32 runs, India have their task cut out to end the series at 1-1. The visitors have already lost a golden opportunity to win their maiden Test series on African soil but they will hope to end it on a high. Captain Rohit Sharma is also aiming to equal former Indian skipper MS Dhoni's rare captaincy feat. If India win the second Test, in Cape Town, Rohit will become only the second Indian captain after Dhoni to avoid a Test series loss in South Africa. So far, India have toured the African nation for Test series on nine occasions since 1992. Only once have they managed to draw a red-ball series in the Rainbow nation. Under Dhoni, India achieved the rare feat during their 2010-11 tour of South Africa. Back then, Dhoni-led India drew a three-match Test series at 1-1. Thus, Rohit will look to become the second Indian captain to achieve this elite feat. Also read: AUS vs PAK, 3rd Test: Shaheen Afridi rested for dead-rubber clash at SCG; Imam dropped in favour of Saim Ayub Talking about the first Test, South Africa won the toss and opted to field first. They bundled out India for 245 with KL Rahul top-scoring with a majestic 101. Kagiso Rabada ended with 5 for 59. In reply, the Proteas rode on Dean Elgar's impressive 185, Marco Jansen's 84 and David Bedingham's 56 to post 408 all-out. With a lead of 163, the home side dismissed the Indians for a paltry 131 with Nandre Burger, 4 for 33, and Jansen 3 for 36 leading the charge with the ball. Rohit-led India will look to put up a more clinical performance this time around and end the series at 1-1.

SA vs Ind, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma aims to equal MS Dhoni’s rare captaincy feat in series decider

Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has lauded KL Rahul for his stellar run in ODIs in 2023. During an interactive session on X, formerly Twitter, Prasad was asked by a fan to comment on&nbsp;Rahul and the former speedster had words of praise for the versatile Indian batter. Rahul ended 2023 with a bang, scoring a majestic 101 during India's big defeat to South Africa in the two-match Test series opener in Centurion.

Rahul had a terrible start to the&nbsp;just-concluded 2023 and got injured during the IPL season, in May. He, however, came back into the Indian setup during the Asia Cup and ended the year with 1,203 runs across formats, including&nbsp;three hundreds and seven fifties. In ODIs, in particular, he was at his best with&nbsp;1,060 runs comprising two centuries (one in Asia Cup and the other in ODI WC). He even impressed in the mega event, in India, with his wicketkeeping skills.

When being asked about Rahul, Prasad replied to a fan and wrote on X, "He has had a great year in one day cricket and in his comeback test in centurion played a wonderful knock in the first innings. Happy for him. Consistency in Test Cricket and realising his true potential is what he needs to aspire for imho."

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He has had a great year in one day cricket and in his comeback test in centurion played a wonderful knock in the first innings. Happy for him. Consistency in Test Cricket and realising his true potential is what he needs to aspire for imho. <a href="https://t.co/gjxLgLr1eU">https://t.co/gjxLgLr1eU</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1741347832219779418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-retires-from-odis-ahead-of-farewell-test-keeps-possibility-of-playing-ct-2025-alive-675410">David Warner retires from ODIs ahead of farewell Test, keeps alive possibility of playing CT 2025</a>

After ODIs, Rahul has taken up the wicketkeeping duties in the longer format as well during India's Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. Rahul-starrer India is currently gearing up for the second and final Test versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas, which gets underway on Jan 3 in Newlands, Cape Town.

Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has lauded KL Rahul for his stellar run in ODIs in 2023. During an interactive session on X, formerly Twitter, Prasad was asked by a fan to comment on Rahul and the former speedster had words of praise for the versatile Indian batter.

Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has lauded KL Rahul for his stellar run in ODIs in 2023. During an interactive session on X, formerly Twitter, Prasad was asked by a fan to comment on Rahul and the former speedster had words of praise for the versatile Indian batter. Rahul ended 2023 with a bang, scoring a majestic 101 during India's big defeat to South Africa in the two-match Test series opener in Centurion. Rahul had a terrible start to the just-concluded 2023 and got injured during the IPL season, in May. He, however, came back into the Indian setup during the Asia Cup and ended the year with 1,203 runs across formats, including three hundreds and seven fifties. In ODIs, in particular, he was at his best with 1,060 runs comprising two centuries (one in Asia Cup and the other in ODI WC). He even impressed in the mega event, in India, with his wicketkeeping skills. When being asked about Rahul, Prasad replied to a fan and wrote on X, "He has had a great year in one day cricket and in his comeback test in centurion played a wonderful knock in the first innings. Happy for him. Consistency in Test Cricket and realising his true potential is what he needs to aspire for imho." He has had a great year in one day cricket and in his comeback test in centurion played a wonderful knock in the first innings. Happy for him. Consistency in Test Cricket and realising his true potential is what he needs to aspire for imho. https://t.co/gjxLgLr1eU — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) December 31, 2023 × Also read: David Warner retires from ODIs ahead of farewell Test, keeps alive possibility of playing CT 2025 After ODIs, Rahul has taken up the wicketkeeping duties in the longer format as well during India's Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. Rahul-starrer India is currently gearing up for the second and final Test versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas, which gets underway on Jan 3 in Newlands, Cape Town.

KL Rahul had great run in 2023 ODIs: Ex-India pacer Venkatesh Prasad wants batter to 'realise true potential'

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Indian cricket for a successful run in the just-concluded 2023. Talking about the Indian cricket's achievements, the senior men's team won the Asia Cup and ended as runners-up in the home ODI World Cup and WTC final whereas the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women's team clinched gold in Asian Games and ended the year with a Test win each over England and Australia, in Mumbai, in December.

In addition,&nbsp;the Shafali Varma-led Indian team won the U-19 Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa. Thus, Gavaskar heaped praise on Indian cricket's magnificent run but rued Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s ODI WC final loss to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19.

Speaking on Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues', Gavaskar spoke highly of the women's team and said, "I think it's been a fantastic year for both the men's and the women's team, particularly the way the women's team has performed. Those two Test wins towards the year-end, one against England and one against Australia, both teams against whom the Indian women's team have had tough times earlier on."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-had-a-great-2023-in-odis-ex-india-pacer-venkatesh-prasad-wants-batter-to-realise-true-potential-675478">KL Rahul had great run in 2023 ODIs: Ex-India pacer Venkatesh Prasad wants batter to 'realise true potential'</a>

He shifted his focus to the ODI WC at home as well. He added, "That's been the most exciting aspect of cricket apart from, of course, what we saw in the World Cup. The 10 straight wins, and, then, just that one bad day, which sadly happened to be the finals of the World Cup. So really some exciting times in 2023."

Harman-led Indian eves won their first Test over Australia&nbsp;since their first meeting back in 1977. Apart from this, the just-concluded year also saw the advent of the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India.&nbsp;

Talking about the senior men's team, they dominated at home, won their eighth Asia Cup title in September but lost two big finals to Australia, i.e. during the WTC 2021-23 cycle's finale&nbsp;and ODI WC.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Indian cricket for a successful run in the just-concluded 2023. Talking about the Indian cricket's achievements, the senior men's team won the Asia Cup and ended as runners-up in the home ODI World Cup and WTC final whereas the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women's team clinched gold in Asian Games and ended the year with a Test win each over England and Australia, in Mumbai, in December.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Indian cricket for a successful run in the just-concluded 2023. Talking about the Indian cricket's achievements, the senior men's team won the Asia Cup and ended as runners-up in the home ODI World Cup and WTC final whereas the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women's team clinched gold in Asian Games and ended the year with a Test win each over England and Australia, in Mumbai, in December. In addition, the Shafali Varma-led Indian team won the U-19 Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa. Thus, Gavaskar heaped praise on Indian cricket's magnificent run but rued Rohit Sharma & Co.'s ODI WC final loss to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Speaking on Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues', Gavaskar spoke highly of the women's team and said, "I think it's been a fantastic year for both the men's and the women's team, particularly the way the women's team has performed. Those two Test wins towards the year-end, one against England and one against Australia, both teams against whom the Indian women's team have had tough times earlier on." Also read: KL Rahul had great run in 2023 ODIs: Ex-India pacer Venkatesh Prasad wants batter to 'realise true potential' He shifted his focus to the ODI WC at home as well. He added, "That's been the most exciting aspect of cricket apart from, of course, what we saw in the World Cup. The 10 straight wins, and, then, just that one bad day, which sadly happened to be the finals of the World Cup. So really some exciting times in 2023." Harman-led Indian eves won their first Test over Australia since their first meeting back in 1977. Apart from this, the just-concluded year also saw the advent of the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India. Talking about the senior men's team, they dominated at home, won their eighth Asia Cup title in September but lost two big finals to Australia, i.e. during the WTC 2021-23 cycle's finale and ODI WC.

Sunil Gavaskar LAUDS Indian cricket for successful 2023 barring ‘just one bad day’ in ODI World Cup final

With the three ODIs ending in India's favour&nbsp;on Thursday (Dec 21), the visitors now shift their focus to&nbsp;the two-match Test&nbsp;series versus South Africa&nbsp;in the African nation. The Test series kicks off on January 26, in Centurion, which will see many senior Indian players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, etc. return&nbsp;to action after the ODI World Cup final loss, to Australia last month.

Kohli will&nbsp;gear up for the Test series&nbsp;in a country where India have still not won&nbsp;a red-ball series. In the 2021-22 SA tour, Kohli scored 161 runs at an average of 40.25 with a top score of 79 in two of the three Tests. Thus, he will hope for a bright series and move past the ODI WC heartbreak. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Kohli to be among runs and feels he will be fired up to do well.

Asked if we will see an aggressive Kohli as witnessed in the last Test series in SA, hinting at&nbsp;the&nbsp;stump-mic aggression from the then Indian captain, Manjrekar said while talking on Star Sports, "No (stump-mic aggression from last series repeat?) because we have a new leader in Rohit Sharma. But you are right, it brings back memories of players saying something that they have never done before, suggesting that the local broadcasters supported the South African team and all that."

“But that was a different temperamental team the last time around, under Rohit Sharma, they tend to play differently. It's always the captain who creates the culture, so I don't see that happening," he opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-border-gavaskar-trophy-win-to-near-perfect-odi-world-cup-campaign-team-indias-run-in-2023-669970">From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023</a>

<h2>'When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like'</h2>

Manjrekar added, "I&nbsp;see Virat Kohli doing his own few things. He is going to get fired up. The last trip to South Africa, he did not get a big one and Kohli has had to work harder for Test runs recently. When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like. David Warner as well. When they get a little fired up, you see them batting better."

Kohli has had a good run in South Africa, i.e. undoubtedly a tough place for batters. He averages a healthy 51.35 with 719 runs in 14 innings, including two hundreds and three half-centuries. At present, he missed out on the team's ongoing three-day&nbsp;intra-squad game, in Pretoria, and&nbsp;returned to India due to a family emergency. The 35-year-old is expected to join the team before the first Test gets underway. Meanwhile, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the red-ball series due to a finger injury.

The two Tests will be played in Centurion (Dec 26-30) and Cape Town (Jan 3-7).

With the three ODIs ending in India's favour on Thursday (Dec 21), the visitors now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation.

With the three ODIs ending in India's favour on Thursday (Dec 21), the visitors now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation. The Test series kicks off on January 26, in Centurion, which will see many senior Indian players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, etc. return to action after the ODI World Cup final loss, to Australia last month. Kohli will gear up for the Test series in a country where India have still not won a red-ball series. In the 2021-22 SA tour, Kohli scored 161 runs at an average of 40.25 with a top score of 79 in two of the three Tests. Thus, he will hope for a bright series and move past the ODI WC heartbreak. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Kohli to be among runs and feels he will be fired up to do well. Asked if we will see an aggressive Kohli as witnessed in the last Test series in SA, hinting at the stump-mic aggression from the then Indian captain, Manjrekar said while talking on Star Sports, "No (stump-mic aggression from last series repeat?) because we have a new leader in Rohit Sharma. But you are right, it brings back memories of players saying something that they have never done before, suggesting that the local broadcasters supported the South African team and all that." “But that was a different temperamental team the last time around, under Rohit Sharma, they tend to play differently. It's always the captain who creates the culture, so I don't see that happening," he opined. Also read: From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023 'When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like' Manjrekar added, "I see Virat Kohli doing his own few things. He is going to get fired up. The last trip to South Africa, he did not get a big one and Kohli has had to work harder for Test runs recently. When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like. David Warner as well. When they get a little fired up, you see them batting better." Kohli has had a good run in South Africa, i.e. undoubtedly a tough place for batters. He averages a healthy 51.35 with 719 runs in 14 innings, including two hundreds and three half-centuries. At present, he missed out on the team's ongoing three-day intra-squad game, in Pretoria, and returned to India due to a family emergency. The 35-year-old is expected to join the team before the first Test gets underway. Meanwhile, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the red-ball series due to a finger injury. The two Tests will be played in Centurion (Dec 26-30) and Cape Town (Jan 3-7).

SA vs Ind, Test series: Virat Kohli will be fired up, feels Sanjay Manjrekar ahead of Centurion tie

On Thursday (Dec 14), India's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav scored his fourth T20I century during the Men in Blue's third and final match versus hosts South Africa, at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. Riding on his 56-ball 100, India posted 201 for 7 in 20 overs and defended it in style after birthday boy Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 17 dismissed South Africa for a paltry 95 in 13.5 overs.&nbsp;

During the third over of the Proteas' run-chase, Surya left the field with an ankle injury. After that, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja led the charge as India won an easy game and ended the series at 1-1. In the post-match presentation, Surya spilt the beans on his injury.&nbsp;

SKY said, "I am good. I am able to walk so it is not that serious." On his knock, he stated, “It was wonderful scoring a hundred, and especially when it comes in a winning cause."

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The No. 1 T20I batter, who joined Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell to become only the third in the format with four centuries, is not part of the KL Rahul-led India squad for the upcoming three ODIs, which gets underway on Sunday (Dec 17).&nbsp;

During the T20Is, Surya surpassed Virat Kohli in the list of most sixes for India in T20Is. In addition, he became the joint-fastest Indian -- along with Kohli -- to score 2,000 runs in the format. With the end of the T20Is, his South Africa tour ends with him not being part of the ODI and Test squads. He was in poor form throughout the ODI World Cup, leading to his omission from the three ODIs.

On Thursday (Dec 14), India's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav scored his fourth T20I century during the Men in Blue's third and final match versus hosts South Africa, at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg.

On Thursday (Dec 14), India's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav scored his fourth T20I century during the Men in Blue's third and final match versus hosts South Africa, at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. Riding on his 56-ball 100, India posted 201 for 7 in 20 overs and defended it in style after birthday boy Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 17 dismissed South Africa for a paltry 95 in 13.5 overs. During the third over of the Proteas' run-chase, Surya left the field with an ankle injury. After that, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja led the charge as India won an easy game and ended the series at 1-1. In the post-match presentation, Surya spilt the beans on his injury. SKY said, "I am good. I am able to walk so it is not that serious." On his knock, he stated, “It was wonderful scoring a hundred, and especially when it comes in a winning cause." Also read: New York likely to host India vs Pakistan 2024 T20 World Cup match - Reports The No. 1 T20I batter, who joined Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell to become only the third in the format with four centuries, is not part of the KL Rahul-led India squad for the upcoming three ODIs, which gets underway on Sunday (Dec 17). During the T20Is, Surya surpassed Virat Kohli in the list of most sixes for India in T20Is. In addition, he became the joint-fastest Indian -- along with Kohli -- to score 2,000 runs in the format. With the end of the T20Is, his South Africa tour ends with him not being part of the ODI and Test squads. He was in poor form throughout the ODI World Cup, leading to his omission from the three ODIs.

SA vs Ind, 3rd T20I: Centurion Suryakumar Yadav shares update on ankle injury ahead of ODI leg

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate ODI, of the three-match series, on Tuesday (Dec 19) at St George's Park, Gqeberha. Asked to bat first, KL Rahul-led India only managed 211 in 46.2 overs -- with Sai Sudhardhan (62) and Rahul (56) being the top performers. In reply, the hosts rode on opener&nbsp;Tony de Zorzi's 119 and Reeza Hendricks' 52 to chase down the score in 42.3 overs with seven wickets in hand. With this, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with the final ODI in Paarl on Thursday (Dec 21).&nbsp;

After the game, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar opined on young Sudharshan and heaped praise on the left-hander. The batter became a household name following a brilliant 47-ball 96 in the IPL 2023 final for Gujarat Titans (GT), versus eventual winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad early this year. Being a consistent performer in the domestic circuit, he was roped into the India squad for the three ODIs in the African nation, with&nbsp;regular captain Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli being rested. 
 
In the series opener, he scored an unbeaten 55 in India's easy 117-run chase and followed it up with an impressive 62 (7 fours and a six) in the second ODI. Thus, Gavaskar lauded him but had a suggestion for the GT batter.&nbsp;

<h2>'You don't want to be getting out in the 50s and 60s'</h2>

Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "Yes, he looks very, very good. A very compact player plays close to his body, has got a good very still head. So balance is very good when he's playing. And, of course, when he plays drives like that. Left-handers can be so elegant when they play, they can play the pull shot as well. But basically his temperament and talent are very, very nice."

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He then added, "Now it's a matter of them sort of carrying on from here and not being satisfied and I'm sure he's not being satisfied. You don't want to be getting out in 50s and 60s. When you bat up the order, you have the opportunity to score a 100 every time. So I think that is what he's got to grab so that somebody will be talking only about who will partner Sai Sudharsan at the top."

Sudharshan-starrer India will look to win the series when both sides meet in the third and final ODI on Thursday at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will be followed by the two Tests, which will see the return of Kohli, Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Gill and other big names. It kicks off on December 26 in Centurion.

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate ODI, of the three-match series, on Tuesday (Dec 19) at St George's Park, Gqeberha. Asked to bat first, KL Rahul-led India only managed 211 in 46.

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate ODI, of the three-match series, on Tuesday (Dec 19) at St George's Park, Gqeberha. Asked to bat first, KL Rahul-led India only managed 211 in 46.2 overs -- with Sai Sudhardhan (62) and Rahul (56) being the top performers. In reply, the hosts rode on opener Tony de Zorzi's 119 and Reeza Hendricks' 52 to chase down the score in 42.3 overs with seven wickets in hand. With this, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with the final ODI in Paarl on Thursday (Dec 21). After the game, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar opined on young Sudharshan and heaped praise on the left-hander. The batter became a household name following a brilliant 47-ball 96 in the IPL 2023 final for Gujarat Titans (GT), versus eventual winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad early this year. Being a consistent performer in the domestic circuit, he was roped into the India squad for the three ODIs in the African nation, with regular captain Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli being rested. In the series opener, he scored an unbeaten 55 in India's easy 117-run chase and followed it up with an impressive 62 (7 fours and a six) in the second ODI. Thus, Gavaskar lauded him but had a suggestion for the GT batter. 'You don't want to be getting out in the 50s and 60s' Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "Yes, he looks very, very good. A very compact player plays close to his body, has got a good very still head. So balance is very good when he's playing. And, of course, when he plays drives like that. Left-handers can be so elegant when they play, they can play the pull shot as well. But basically his temperament and talent are very, very nice." Also read: ICC ODI Rankings: Babar Azam reclaims No. 1 spot from Gill, Indian veterans Kohli and Rohit remain in top 4 He then added, "Now it's a matter of them sort of carrying on from here and not being satisfied and I'm sure he's not being satisfied. You don't want to be getting out in 50s and 60s. When you bat up the order, you have the opportunity to score a 100 every time. So I think that is what he's got to grab so that somebody will be talking only about who will partner Sai Sudharsan at the top." Sudharshan-starrer India will look to win the series when both sides meet in the third and final ODI on Thursday at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will be followed by the two Tests, which will see the return of Kohli, Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Gill and other big names. It kicks off on December 26 in Centurion.

SA vs Ind, 2nd ODI: Sunil Gavaskar lauds Sai Sudharshan, shares THIS advice for young batter

Babar Azam has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (Dec 20). Babar, the former Pakistan skipper, was replaced from the No. 1 spot by Indian opener Shubman Gill recently, however, the stylish batter has regained the spot in a flash. It is to be noted that&nbsp;the change in the rankings occurred following&nbsp;Gill's absence from India's ongoing three ODIs&nbsp;against hosts South Africa. Babar holds the top spot with an impressive 824 rating points, while Gill remains a close second with 810 points.

Babar-starrer Pakistan have not played an ODI since their World Cup campaign ended on Nov 11, when they faced England in their last league stage game at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With the Men in Green not playing an ODI for over a month, Babar's rating point&nbsp;did not drop&nbsp;whereas Gill missing the SA ODIs led to him losing rating points.&nbsp; Meanwhile, India's veteran star duo Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain in the top four in the overall rankings.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-border-gavaskar-trophy-win-to-near-perfect-odi-world-cup-campaign-team-indias-run-in-2023-669970">From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023</a>

1. Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 824 rating points 
2. Shubman Gill (India) - 810 rating points 
3. Virat Kohli (India) - 775 rating points 
4. Rohit Sharma (India) - 754 rating points 
5. David Warner (Australia) - 745 rating points 
6. Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) - 743 rating points 
7. Harry Tector (Ireland) - 723 rating points 
8. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa) - 717 rating points 
9. Dawid Malan (England) - 707 rating points 
10. Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) - 705 rating points

Kane Williamson and Suryakumar Yadav remain the No. 1 batter in Tests and T20Is, respectively. Among the bowlers, R Ashwin tops the charts in Tests with South Africa's Keshav Maharaj being the No. 1 ODI bowler and Adil Rashid (England) topping the charts in T20Is.&nbsp;

Babar Azam has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (Dec 20). Babar, the former Pakistan skipper, was replaced from the No. 1 spot by Indian opener Shubman Gill recently, however, the stylish batter has regained the spot in a flash.

Babar Azam has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (Dec 20). Babar, the former Pakistan skipper, was replaced from the No. 1 spot by Indian opener Shubman Gill recently, however, the stylish batter has regained the spot in a flash. It is to be noted that the change in the rankings occurred following Gill's absence from India's ongoing three ODIs against hosts South Africa. Babar holds the top spot with an impressive 824 rating points, while Gill remains a close second with 810 points. Babar-starrer Pakistan have not played an ODI since their World Cup campaign ended on Nov 11, when they faced England in their last league stage game at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With the Men in Green not playing an ODI for over a month, Babar's rating point did not drop whereas Gill missing the SA ODIs led to him losing rating points. Meanwhile, India's veteran star duo Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain in the top four in the overall rankings. Also read: From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023 1. Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 824 rating points 2. Shubman Gill (India) - 810 rating points 3. Virat Kohli (India) - 775 rating points 4. Rohit Sharma (India) - 754 rating points 5. David Warner (Australia) - 745 rating points 6. Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) - 743 rating points 7. Harry Tector (Ireland) - 723 rating points 8. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa) - 717 rating points 9. Dawid Malan (England) - 707 rating points 10. Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) - 705 rating points Kane Williamson and Suryakumar Yadav remain the No. 1 batter in Tests and T20Is, respectively. Among the bowlers, R Ashwin tops the charts in Tests with South Africa's Keshav Maharaj being the No. 1 ODI bowler and Adil Rashid (England) topping the charts in T20Is.

ICC ODI Rankings: Babar Azam reclaims No. 1 spot from Gill, Indian veterans Kohli and Rohit remain in top 4

From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023

On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a 10-match winning streak, hosts India entered the 10-team competition's finale as the red-hot favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies.

Being asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit &amp; Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not-out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall.&nbsp;

After the heartbreaking loss, the majority of the Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip, during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support.

He further shared the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him to keep going ahead.

<h2>'I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup'</h2>

Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, and how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us."

He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.”

“For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned.

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<h2>'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize'</h2>

Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kinds of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, me it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.”

“I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me, that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. &nbsp;You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat.

At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to eventual winners England.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19.

On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a 10-match winning streak, hosts India entered the 10-team competition's finale as the red-hot favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies. Being asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit & Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not-out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall. After the heartbreaking loss, the majority of the Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip, during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support. He further shared the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him to keep going ahead. 'I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup' Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, and how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us." He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.” “For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned. Also read: What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED 'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize' Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kinds of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, me it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.” “I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me, that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat. At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to eventual winners England.

VIDEO: Rohit Sharma shares heartfelt message on ODI WC loss, acknowledges fan support - Watch

Rinku Singh has become a household name in Indian cricket. Ever since his IPL 2023 blitz&nbsp;for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many Indian cricket fans have followed him and his popularity is growing each day with back-to-back performances while playing for the national side in T20Is. After slamming an impressive 68 not out&nbsp;off 39&nbsp;balls, in India's second and penultimate tie versus hosts South Africa, in&nbsp;Gqeberha, Rinku's consistency while batting lower down the order is being talked about across the nation.

Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and South Africa, Johannesburg on Thursday (Dec 14), former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir hailed Rinku. He feels 'the whole of India is happy' when Rinku gets going.

<h2>'When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy'</h2>

Speaking on Star Sports, Gambhir said, "When you come in after a lot of handwork, first-class cricket and you have performed at every single stage, then you value each of your knocks. Then you start every innings like it is your first one, and you won't take anything for granted. Whatever success he gets, I feel, he deserves it. Because Rinku Singh hasn't got anything easily. When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy."

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Talking about Rinku's 68*, which was his maiden T20I fifty, he came out to bat at No. 5 and took India's score to 180 for 7 in 19.3 overs before rain ended India's innings. The target for the Proteas was 152 in 15 overs, which the Aiden Markram-led side completed in 13.5 overs courtesy of Reeza Hendricks' 49, Markram's 30 and cameos from the lower-middle order.&nbsp;

The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team will look to end the series with a 1-1 scoreline on Thursday. The first T20I was completely washed out in Durban. For Rinku, who has had scores of&nbsp;38 (21), 37* (15), 22* (14), 31* (14), 46 (29), 46 (29), 6 (10) and 68* (39) in his brief T20I career, will look to play another crucial knock for his side in the series decider.&nbsp;

Rinku Singh has become a household name in Indian cricket. Ever since his IPL 2023 blitz for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many Indian cricket fans have followed him and his popularity is growing each day with back-to-back performances while playing for the national side in T20Is.

Rinku Singh has become a household name in Indian cricket. Ever since his IPL 2023 blitz for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many Indian cricket fans have followed him and his popularity is growing each day with back-to-back performances while playing for the national side in T20Is. After slamming an impressive 68 not out off 39 balls, in India's second and penultimate tie versus hosts South Africa, in Gqeberha, Rinku's consistency while batting lower down the order is being talked about across the nation. Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and South Africa, Johannesburg on Thursday (Dec 14), former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir hailed Rinku. He feels 'the whole of India is happy' when Rinku gets going. 'When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy' Speaking on Star Sports, Gambhir said, "When you come in after a lot of handwork, first-class cricket and you have performed at every single stage, then you value each of your knocks. Then you start every innings like it is your first one, and you won't take anything for granted. Whatever success he gets, I feel, he deserves it. Because Rinku Singh hasn't got anything easily. When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy." Also read: We enjoyed each other's success: Mohammed Shami compliments India's batters despite bowling prowess in WC Talking about Rinku's 68*, which was his maiden T20I fifty, he came out to bat at No. 5 and took India's score to 180 for 7 in 19.3 overs before rain ended India's innings. The target for the Proteas was 152 in 15 overs, which the Aiden Markram-led side completed in 13.5 overs courtesy of Reeza Hendricks' 49, Markram's 30 and cameos from the lower-middle order. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team will look to end the series with a 1-1 scoreline on Thursday. The first T20I was completely washed out in Durban. For Rinku, who has had scores of 38 (21), 37* (15), 22* (14), 31* (14), 46 (29), 46 (29), 6 (10) and 68* (39) in his brief T20I career, will look to play another crucial knock for his side in the series decider.

SA vs Ind, T20Is: When Rinku Singh performs well, whole of India becomes happy - Former opener Gautam Gambhir

Mohammed Shami was one of India's top-performers in their near-flawless ODI World Cup campaign at home, where they lost the final to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Shami ended with the most wickets in the ten-team tournament, accounting for 24 scalps in seven games&nbsp;comprising three five-fers, including a best of 7 for 57&nbsp;in the semi-final versus New Zealand.

During the group stage game versus Sri Lanka, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Nov 2, Shami was breathing fire with the ball in India's defence of 357/8. His 5 for 18 dismantled the Lankans for a paltry 55 as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. won by 302 runs. During the SL run-chase, Shami celebrated his fifth wicket&nbsp;by kneeling and touching the ground with both hands. Many fans, on social media, felt that he wanted to perform the Sajda, based on his gesture,&nbsp;but held back due to fear of backlash. Now, the pacer has slammed all such claims and is baffled by how stories are made up out of nowhere.

<h2>'If I wanted to pray, who could stop me?'</h2>

While speaking on Agenda Aaj Tak on Wednesday (Dec 13), Shami said, "If I wanted to pray, who could stop me? I won't stop anyone from praying. If I want to pray, I will pray. What's the problem in this? I will say it with pride that I am a Muslim. I will say it with pride that I am an Indian. What's the problem in that? If I have to ask permission to pray from someone, then why should I be in this country? Have I ever prayed after taking a 5-wicket haul before? I have taken many five-wicket hauls. You tell me where you have to pray, and I will go and pray there."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-enjoyed-each-others-success-mohammed-shami-compliments-indias-batters-despite-bowling-prowess-in-wc-669417">We enjoyed each other's success: Mohammed Shami compliments India's batters despite bowling prowess in WC</a>

Shami added, "People like this are not on anyone's side. They only want to create a ruckus. I bowled with 200 percent intensity in that game against Sri Lanka. Wickets were falling in quick succession and after taking 3 wickets, I thought I had to take a 5-wicket haul today. I was tired of not getting a wicket despite beating the edge of the batter so many times. I was bowling at full tilt. So when I got my 5th wicket, I sank to the ground and kneeled. People gave a different meaning to it. I think people who are misinterpreting these things don't have any other work."

The speedster has been in superb form in recent times. He has also been nominated for the prestigious Arjuna Award.

At present, Shami is gearing up to take part in India's two-match Test series versus hosts South Africa, which gets underway on Dec 26. He is part of the 16-member squad but his availability is subject to fitness. He is dealing with a&nbsp;troubled ankle and hasn't played a game since the ODI WC final.

Mohammed Shami was one of India's top-performers in their near-flawless ODI World Cup campaign at home, where they lost the final to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19.

Mohammed Shami was one of India's top-performers in their near-flawless ODI World Cup campaign at home, where they lost the final to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Shami ended with the most wickets in the ten-team tournament, accounting for 24 scalps in seven games comprising three five-fers, including a best of 7 for 57 in the semi-final versus New Zealand. During the group stage game versus Sri Lanka, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Nov 2, Shami was breathing fire with the ball in India's defence of 357/8. His 5 for 18 dismantled the Lankans for a paltry 55 as Rohit Sharma & Co. won by 302 runs. During the SL run-chase, Shami celebrated his fifth wicket by kneeling and touching the ground with both hands. Many fans, on social media, felt that he wanted to perform the Sajda, based on his gesture, but held back due to fear of backlash. Now, the pacer has slammed all such claims and is baffled by how stories are made up out of nowhere. 'If I wanted to pray, who could stop me?' While speaking on Agenda Aaj Tak on Wednesday (Dec 13), Shami said, "If I wanted to pray, who could stop me? I won't stop anyone from praying. If I want to pray, I will pray. What's the problem in this? I will say it with pride that I am a Muslim. I will say it with pride that I am an Indian. What's the problem in that? If I have to ask permission to pray from someone, then why should I be in this country? Have I ever prayed after taking a 5-wicket haul before? I have taken many five-wicket hauls. You tell me where you have to pray, and I will go and pray there." Also read: We enjoyed each other's success: Mohammed Shami compliments India's batters despite bowling prowess in WC Shami added, "People like this are not on anyone's side. They only want to create a ruckus. I bowled with 200 percent intensity in that game against Sri Lanka. Wickets were falling in quick succession and after taking 3 wickets, I thought I had to take a 5-wicket haul today. I was tired of not getting a wicket despite beating the edge of the batter so many times. I was bowling at full tilt. So when I got my 5th wicket, I sank to the ground and kneeled. People gave a different meaning to it. I think people who are misinterpreting these things don't have any other work." The speedster has been in superb form in recent times. He has also been nominated for the prestigious Arjuna Award. At present, Shami is gearing up to take part in India's two-match Test series versus hosts South Africa, which gets underway on Dec 26. He is part of the 16-member squad but his availability is subject to fitness. He is dealing with a troubled ankle and hasn't played a game since the ODI WC final.

I'm a proud Indian: Mohammed Shami lashes out at trolls over ‘Sajda’ controversy during ODI World Cup

On Tuesday evening (Dec 12), former Indian captain Virat Kohli broke the internet with a post shared on his Instagram story. Kohli shared a story where he revealed having 'mock chicken tikka', leaving fans bemused. It is to be noted that Kohli turned vegetarian few years ago and relies only on vegan sources on a daily basis. He revealed that he quit non-vegetarian sources to add to his inspiring fitness level and it has helped him further. Thus, when he posted having mock chicken tikka on Tuesday evening, it left a large section of his fans shellshocked.&nbsp;

Here is the post from Kohli which broke the internet:

<img alt="Virat Kohli mock chicken tikka" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f502e9c7-d888-417d-8840-cbb9b5a22d5b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohliiii%20chicken.JPG" />

However, there is a catch. Notably, the mock chicken tikka is not animal-based, but&nbsp;plant-based. Hence, it remains a vegetarian dish.&nbsp;

What is 'Mock Chicken Tikka'?

Unlike the usual 'Chicken Tikka', the mock version of the dish is not made from chicken. Rather, soy is used in place of chicken. In recent times, many vegetarian versions of chicken and meat items have come into the picture, mostly made of soy.&nbsp; The flavours and texture&nbsp;of the food item often lead to confusion among people who fail to differentiate between the two dishes. Nonetheless, it remains a vegetarian item made of soy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-kumar-sangakkara-top-5-batters-with-most-runs-in-odi-t20-world-cups-661585">From Virat Kohli to Kumar Sangakkara: Top 5 batters with most runs in ODI &amp; T20 World Cups</a>

Why did Virat Kohli turn vegetarian?

Back in 2020, Kohli explained why he turned vegetarian. During an Instagram Live session, he opined, "Left eating meat just before the England Test series. In 2018, when we went to South Africa, I had a cervical spine issue while playing a test match. It compressed a nerve that was running straight to the little finger of my right hand. It gave me a tingling sensation and I could barely feel my little finger. I could not sleep at night and it was hurting like mad."

"Then I got my tests done and my stomach was too acidic and my body was too acidic, creating too much uric acid. Even though I was taking calcium and magnesium, everything but one tablet was not sufficient for my body to function properly. So, my stomach started pulling calcium from my bones and my bones got weaker. That is why I stopped eating meat completely in the middle of England tour to cut down the uric acid and I have never felt better in my life, to be honest," he further mentioned.

"I felt amazing, it is almost two years now and it is the best decision I have taken... it made me feel why I didn't do it before," Kohli added.

At present, Kohli is gearing up for India's upcoming two-match Test series in South Africa, which gets underway on Dec 26. India's white-ball teams are currently playing three T20Is in the African nation, which will be followed by an equal number of ODIs before the focus shifts to Tests.&nbsp;

Kohli was last seen on the 22-yard cricket strip during India's 2023 ODI World Cup final loss&nbsp;to Australia&nbsp;in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. He ended the tournament as the highest run-getter (765 -&nbsp;most by any in a single edition).

On Tuesday evening (Dec 12), former Indian captain Virat Kohli broke the internet with a post shared on his Instagram story. Kohli shared a story where he revealed having 'mock chicken tikka', leaving fans bemused.

On Tuesday evening (Dec 12), former Indian captain Virat Kohli broke the internet with a post shared on his Instagram story. Kohli shared a story where he revealed having 'mock chicken tikka', leaving fans bemused. It is to be noted that Kohli turned vegetarian few years ago and relies only on vegan sources on a daily basis. He revealed that he quit non-vegetarian sources to add to his inspiring fitness level and it has helped him further. Thus, when he posted having mock chicken tikka on Tuesday evening, it left a large section of his fans shellshocked. Here is the post from Kohli which broke the internet: However, there is a catch. Notably, the mock chicken tikka is not animal-based, but plant-based. Hence, it remains a vegetarian dish. What is 'Mock Chicken Tikka'? Unlike the usual 'Chicken Tikka', the mock version of the dish is not made from chicken. Rather, soy is used in place of chicken. In recent times, many vegetarian versions of chicken and meat items have come into the picture, mostly made of soy. The flavours and texture of the food item often lead to confusion among people who fail to differentiate between the two dishes. Nonetheless, it remains a vegetarian item made of soy. Also read: From Virat Kohli to Kumar Sangakkara: Top 5 batters with most runs in ODI & T20 World Cups Why did Virat Kohli turn vegetarian? Back in 2020, Kohli explained why he turned vegetarian. During an Instagram Live session, he opined, "Left eating meat just before the England Test series. In 2018, when we went to South Africa, I had a cervical spine issue while playing a test match. It compressed a nerve that was running straight to the little finger of my right hand. It gave me a tingling sensation and I could barely feel my little finger. I could not sleep at night and it was hurting like mad." "Then I got my tests done and my stomach was too acidic and my body was too acidic, creating too much uric acid. Even though I was taking calcium and magnesium, everything but one tablet was not sufficient for my body to function properly. So, my stomach started pulling calcium from my bones and my bones got weaker. That is why I stopped eating meat completely in the middle of England tour to cut down the uric acid and I have never felt better in my life, to be honest," he further mentioned. "I felt amazing, it is almost two years now and it is the best decision I have taken... it made me feel why I didn't do it before," Kohli added. At present, Kohli is gearing up for India's upcoming two-match Test series in South Africa, which gets underway on Dec 26. India's white-ball teams are currently playing three T20Is in the African nation, which will be followed by an equal number of ODIs before the focus shifts to Tests. Kohli was last seen on the 22-yard cricket strip during India's 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. He ended the tournament as the highest run-getter (765 - most by any in a single edition).

What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED

A couple off Glenn Maxwell's willow led the Pat Cummins-led Australia to complete the 241-run chase with ease during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, in Ahmedabad, versus India on Nov 19. With the loss, Rohit Sharma-led India choked once again in an ICC knockout game. Thus, they remain without an ICC title since their 2013 Champions Trophy win.

While the gap has widened&nbsp;since India's last ICC triumph, there is not much time left for the next major ICC event in men's cricket. The upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup will take place in June 2024, in the West Indies and the USA. Thus, the one-time winners India are already running against time to win an ICC championship with the T20 WC less than six months away.

<h2>Explained: How India have problems aplenty for next T20 WC</h2>

Firstly, it is safe to say T20Is are not India's strongest format. They might be the No. 1 ranked side at present, however, a numero uno ranking does not guarantee success at a major event (Note, India played the home ODI World Cup as the No. 1 side). If we look at India's defeats in the last few knockout games in the T20 WC, it has been due to their conservative batting (recall the 2014 final versus Sri Lanka and the most recent semi-final defeat against England in 2022).

The Men in Blue remain a top-heavy side. Since 2016, it has predominantly been Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul or Shikhar Dhawan making the bulk of their runs.&nbsp;However, even their famed top-order's future in the format remains a mystery (of course, barring Dhawan's). If one focuses on India's middle and lower order, they have two good options in Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant. However, one is heavily injury-prone and the other will return to competitive cricket only a few months before the T20 WC, i.e. during IPL 2014 after a major car crash in late 2022.

All is not lost despite the above-mentioned factors. Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh's recent inclusion has been a breath of fresh air. However, they need more batting depth. In the Australia home series -- which ended early this month -- and the ongoing South Africa series, in the African nation, India have batters only till No. 7. They cannot do that, which only adds to their conservative style. They are one batter short. Thus, more all-rounders are a need of the hour. This, in turn, might hurt their bowling,&nbsp;which they have been reluctant to do. In addition, the inability of India's top batters to contribute with a few overs only adds to their bowling shortage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-the-vegetarian-chicken-virat-kohli-shared-on-social-media-to-leave-netizens-bemused-669167">What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED</a>

Above all, the biggest issue remains about leadership. Rohit has not played a T20I tie since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss. Since then, Hardik has served as the temporary captain. While Hardik's fitness remains a story in itself, Rohit's future as a T20I captain is also a well-kept secret. On Wednesday (Dec 13), Hitman hinted at his T20 WC participation while acknowledging fans for their relentless support during the ODI WC.&nbsp;

In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Rohit said, "People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize."

If Rohit returns to lead, it will be interesting to see what transpires for Kohli in&nbsp;T20Is. Reports have been flowing in that the BCCI selectors are in favour of having a more dynamic batter at No. 3 (i.e., Ishan Kishan). Nonetheless, are they bold enough to take back Rohit but drop Kohli, who has the most runs in the format and T20 WC history? If the selectors and team management bring both Kohli and Rohit, what will be the future for the plethora of youngsters who have been regulars in the format since late 2022? India need clarity at the earliest with just a limited number of games left (to be precise, just four) before their T20 WC campaign gets underway.&nbsp;

If the Kohli-Rohit debate gets settled, then only India can finalise their batting slot. 
 
Moreover, problems will multiply when IPL 2024 starts. Not every batter bats at the same spot for India and for their respective franchises. India certainly need to address this concern as well. Reports have suggested that Rahul is looking to bat in the middle for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Will the LSG franchise comply? There are several pertaining questions with limited games and time in hand.&nbsp;

Lastly, BCCI never had a plan for the T20 WC -- having all their focus towards the home ODI WC. Hence, even though Dravid had an almost flawless end to his first stint as head coach, he has been asked to continue only because there was never one eye on the next coach (coupled with a handful of months between the ODI and T20 WC). Thus, will Dravid &amp; Co. be bold enough to challenge the national side to change their T20I culture so late?

At present, there are several questions with no certain answer. Hence, India have problems aplenty ahead of their upcoming T20 WC run.&nbsp;

A couple off Glenn Maxwell's willow led the Pat Cummins-led Australia to complete the 241-run chase with ease during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, in Ahmedabad, versus India on Nov 19.

A couple off Glenn Maxwell's willow led the Pat Cummins-led Australia to complete the 241-run chase with ease during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, in Ahmedabad, versus India on Nov 19. With the loss, Rohit Sharma-led India choked once again in an ICC knockout game. Thus, they remain without an ICC title since their 2013 Champions Trophy win. While the gap has widened since India's last ICC triumph, there is not much time left for the next major ICC event in men's cricket. The upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup will take place in June 2024, in the West Indies and the USA. Thus, the one-time winners India are already running against time to win an ICC championship with the T20 WC less than six months away. Explained: How India have problems aplenty for next T20 WC Firstly, it is safe to say T20Is are not India's strongest format. They might be the No. 1 ranked side at present, however, a numero uno ranking does not guarantee success at a major event (Note, India played the home ODI World Cup as the No. 1 side). If we look at India's defeats in the last few knockout games in the T20 WC, it has been due to their conservative batting (recall the 2014 final versus Sri Lanka and the most recent semi-final defeat against England in 2022). The Men in Blue remain a top-heavy side. Since 2016, it has predominantly been Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul or Shikhar Dhawan making the bulk of their runs. However, even their famed top-order's future in the format remains a mystery (of course, barring Dhawan's). If one focuses on India's middle and lower order, they have two good options in Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant. However, one is heavily injury-prone and the other will return to competitive cricket only a few months before the T20 WC, i.e. during IPL 2014 after a major car crash in late 2022. All is not lost despite the above-mentioned factors. Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh's recent inclusion has been a breath of fresh air. However, they need more batting depth. In the Australia home series -- which ended early this month -- and the ongoing South Africa series, in the African nation, India have batters only till No. 7. They cannot do that, which only adds to their conservative style. They are one batter short. Thus, more all-rounders are a need of the hour. This, in turn, might hurt their bowling, which they have been reluctant to do. In addition, the inability of India's top batters to contribute with a few overs only adds to their bowling shortage. Also read: What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED Above all, the biggest issue remains about leadership. Rohit has not played a T20I tie since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss. Since then, Hardik has served as the temporary captain. While Hardik's fitness remains a story in itself, Rohit's future as a T20I captain is also a well-kept secret. On Wednesday (Dec 13), Hitman hinted at his T20 WC participation while acknowledging fans for their relentless support during the ODI WC. In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Rohit said, "People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize." If Rohit returns to lead, it will be interesting to see what transpires for Kohli in T20Is. Reports have been flowing in that the BCCI selectors are in favour of having a more dynamic batter at No. 3 (i.e., Ishan Kishan). Nonetheless, are they bold enough to take back Rohit but drop Kohli, who has the most runs in the format and T20 WC history? If the selectors and team management bring both Kohli and Rohit, what will be the future for the plethora of youngsters who have been regulars in the format since late 2022? India need clarity at the earliest with just a limited number of games left (to be precise, just four) before their T20 WC campaign gets underway. If the Kohli-Rohit debate gets settled, then only India can finalise their batting slot. Moreover, problems will multiply when IPL 2024 starts. Not every batter bats at the same spot for India and for their respective franchises. India certainly need to address this concern as well. Reports have suggested that Rahul is looking to bat in the middle for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Will the LSG franchise comply? There are several pertaining questions with limited games and time in hand. Lastly, BCCI never had a plan for the T20 WC -- having all their focus towards the home ODI WC. Hence, even though Dravid had an almost flawless end to his first stint as head coach, he has been asked to continue only because there was never one eye on the next coach (coupled with a handful of months between the ODI and T20 WC). Thus, will Dravid & Co. be bold enough to challenge the national side to change their T20I culture so late? At present, there are several questions with no certain answer. Hence, India have problems aplenty ahead of their upcoming T20 WC run.

Explained | How Team India has problems aplenty for 2024 T20 World Cup

On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a ten-match winning streak, hosts India entered the ten-team competition's finale as the favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies. Being asked to bat first&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit &amp; Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall.&nbsp;

After the heartbreaking loss, a majority of&nbsp;Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip&nbsp;during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support, sharing&nbsp;the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him going ahead.

<h2>"I feel for all of them," says Rohit</h2>

Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us."

He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.”

“For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned.

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-the-vegetarian-chicken-virat-kohli-shared-on-social-media-to-leave-netizens-bemused-669167">What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED</a>

<h2>'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize'</h2>

Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.”

“I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. &nbsp;You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat.

At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup&nbsp;in the West Indies and the USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup&nbsp;to eventual winners England.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a ten-match winning streak, hosts India entered the ten-team competition's finale as the favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies. Being asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit & Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall. After the heartbreaking loss, a majority of Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support, sharing the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him going ahead. "I feel for all of them," says Rohit Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us." He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.” “For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team Ro (@team45ro) × Also read: What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED 'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize' Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.” “I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat. At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup to eventual winners England.

VIDEO: Rohit Sharma shares heartfelt message on ODI WC loss, acknowledges fan support

Little Master Sunil Gavaskar lauded youngster Rinku Singh ahead of the start of India's all-format tour of South Africa. Gavaskar feels Rinku has grabbed the opportunities that came his way in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and the 26-year-old has done reasonably well in the limited chances given in T20Is. Ahead of Suryakumar Yadav-led India's three T20Is versus South Africa, in the African nation, Gavaskar stated that Rinku is being looked up on as the next 'Yuvraj Singh' and expectations are sky high from the left-hander.&nbsp;

Gavaskar hailed Rinku's self-belief&nbsp;while&nbsp;talking on Star Sports and said, "Talent - it's not given to everybody. You can love the game. You can play all day, but sometimes you know you might not quite have the talent, but he has the belief that he could do it, and that's what he's done over the last 2-3 years. Again here in the IPL, he was in and out of a lot of teams when he finally got the opportunity and the way he grabbed it (was amazing)."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-1st-t20i-match-called-off-in-durban-due-to-bad-weather-668269">SA vs IND 2023/24, 1st T20I: Match called off in Durban due to bad weather</a>

In addition, Gavaskar stated that Indian fans are already comparing Rinku's ability with Yuvraj, who is one of the legendary Indian cricketers in white-ball formats. The former Indian opener believes that if Rinku can do even a 'fraction of what Yuvraj did', he will have done wonderfully well.&nbsp;

He added, "And now he's part of an India team. And now there's so much, so many high expectations of them. They are now expecting him to be another Yuvraj Singh. Rinku Singh - Yuvraj Singh. So if you can do even a fraction of what Yuvraj did for Indian cricket, then he will have done wonderfully well."

Rinku-starrer India locked horns with South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener on Sunday (Dec 10) in Durban. The game was washed out without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain.&nbsp;

Little Master Sunil Gavaskar lauded youngster Rinku Singh ahead of the start of India's all-format tour of South Africa. Gavaskar feels Rinku has grabbed the opportunities that came his way in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and the 26-year-old has done reasonably well in the limited chances given in T20Is.

Little Master Sunil Gavaskar lauded youngster Rinku Singh ahead of the start of India's all-format tour of South Africa. Gavaskar feels Rinku has grabbed the opportunities that came his way in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and the 26-year-old has done reasonably well in the limited chances given in T20Is. Ahead of Suryakumar Yadav-led India's three T20Is versus South Africa, in the African nation, Gavaskar stated that Rinku is being looked up on as the next 'Yuvraj Singh' and expectations are sky high from the left-hander. Gavaskar hailed Rinku's self-belief while talking on Star Sports and said, "Talent - it's not given to everybody. You can love the game. You can play all day, but sometimes you know you might not quite have the talent, but he has the belief that he could do it, and that's what he's done over the last 2-3 years. Again here in the IPL, he was in and out of a lot of teams when he finally got the opportunity and the way he grabbed it (was amazing)." Also read: SA vs IND 2023/24, 1st T20I: Match called off in Durban due to bad weather In addition, Gavaskar stated that Indian fans are already comparing Rinku's ability with Yuvraj, who is one of the legendary Indian cricketers in white-ball formats. The former Indian opener believes that if Rinku can do even a 'fraction of what Yuvraj did', he will have done wonderfully well. He added, "And now he's part of an India team. And now there's so much, so many high expectations of them. They are now expecting him to be another Yuvraj Singh. Rinku Singh - Yuvraj Singh. So if you can do even a fraction of what Yuvraj did for Indian cricket, then he will have done wonderfully well." Rinku-starrer India locked horns with South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener on Sunday (Dec 10) in Durban. The game was washed out without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain.

Ind tour of SA: People seeing Rinku Singh as India's next Yuvraj, says Indian great Sunil Gavaskar

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.

Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June.&nbsp;

"If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eyes-on-mohammed-shamis-troubling-ankle-as-india-set-to-leave-for-south-africa-tour-666602">Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour</a>

It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury,&nbsp;during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1).&nbsp;

Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation.

Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.&nbsp;

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi.

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June. "If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily. Also read: Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury, during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1). Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation. Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.

'If you want to pick me for T20 WC 2024...: What Rohit told BCCI officials and selectors - Report

West Indies legendary batter Brian Lara has lauded Indian opener Shubman Gill. Lara feels Gill has it in him to break a plethora of records&nbsp;and labelled him&nbsp;the 'most talented batter of this generation'. In addition, Lara&nbsp;made a big claim that&nbsp;the right-hander will win many ICC tournaments&nbsp;for Team India going forward.

At present, Gill is on cloud nine as he has had a memorable run in 2023. He has been in top form across formats, especially in ODIs. He became the No. 1 ranked batter in ODIs recently and has slammed a ton in all formats as well as&nbsp;in the IPL, while playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT), in this calendar year. Last month, Gill was named the Gujarat captain after Hardik Pandya rejoined the Mumbai Indians (MI).

Speaking to Anandabazar Patrika, Lara claimed that Gill could break his record for the highest individual score in Test cricket (400).&nbsp;

<h2>'In Test cricket, he can surely go past 400'</h2>

Lara stated, "Shubman Gill can break both my records. Gill is the most talented batter in this new generation. He will rule cricket in the coming years. I believe he will go on to break many big records. He (Gill) can do it (break my records). If Gill plays County cricket then he can break my 501*. In Test cricket, he can surely go past 400."

“Shubman will score big, mark my words. Gill didn't score a century (in the World Cup) but look at the knocks he has already played. He has centuries in all formats, has smashed a double hundred in ODIs and has also played many match-winnings in the IPL. I'm sure he will win many ICC tournaments in the future,” the legendary cricketer added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-star-player-doubtful-for-sa-tour-to-return-to-action-after-fathers-health-improves-666749">India's star player doubtful for SA tour, to join national team after father's health improves</a>

Gill has 966 runs in 18 Tests, at an average of 32.20, with two centuries. In ODIs, he has 2,271 runs in 44 matches, averaging 61.38 with a strike rate of 103.46. In T20Is, the 25-year-old has scored 304 runs in 11 games, at an average of 30.40 while striking at 146.86.

Gill is part of India's T20I and Test squads for the upcoming South Africa tour, which commences on Dec 10. He has been rested from the three ODIs. He was last seen in action during the home ODI World Cup, amassing 354 runs with four fifties at an average of 44.25.

West Indies legendary batter Brian Lara has lauded Indian opener Shubman Gill. Lara feels Gill has it in him to break a plethora of records and labelled him the 'most talented batter of this generation'.

West Indies legendary batter Brian Lara has lauded Indian opener Shubman Gill. Lara feels Gill has it in him to break a plethora of records and labelled him the 'most talented batter of this generation'. In addition, Lara made a big claim that the right-hander will win many ICC tournaments for Team India going forward. At present, Gill is on cloud nine as he has had a memorable run in 2023. He has been in top form across formats, especially in ODIs. He became the No. 1 ranked batter in ODIs recently and has slammed a ton in all formats as well as in the IPL, while playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT), in this calendar year. Last month, Gill was named the Gujarat captain after Hardik Pandya rejoined the Mumbai Indians (MI). Speaking to Anandabazar Patrika, Lara claimed that Gill could break his record for the highest individual score in Test cricket (400). 'In Test cricket, he can surely go past 400' Lara stated, "Shubman Gill can break both my records. Gill is the most talented batter in this new generation. He will rule cricket in the coming years. I believe he will go on to break many big records. He (Gill) can do it (break my records). If Gill plays County cricket then he can break my 501*. In Test cricket, he can surely go past 400." “Shubman will score big, mark my words. Gill didn't score a century (in the World Cup) but look at the knocks he has already played. He has centuries in all formats, has smashed a double hundred in ODIs and has also played many match-winnings in the IPL. I'm sure he will win many ICC tournaments in the future,” the legendary cricketer added. Also read: India's star player doubtful for SA tour, to join national team after father's health improves Gill has 966 runs in 18 Tests, at an average of 32.20, with two centuries. In ODIs, he has 2,271 runs in 44 matches, averaging 61.38 with a strike rate of 103.46. In T20Is, the 25-year-old has scored 304 runs in 11 games, at an average of 30.40 while striking at 146.86. Gill is part of India's T20I and Test squads for the upcoming South Africa tour, which commences on Dec 10. He has been rested from the three ODIs. He was last seen in action during the home ODI World Cup, amassing 354 runs with four fifties at an average of 44.25.

WI great Brian Lara calls Shubman Gill 'most talented batter in this generation', makes BOLD claim

Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth feels Virat Kohli will be India's X-factor during their forthcoming Test series versus South Africa. India will resume their campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle when they face hosts South Africa in the series opener on Dec 26. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian side will look to win their maiden red-ball series in South Africa. Sreesanth feels Kohli will be India's main player in the two Tests.&nbsp;

Speaking to the Firstpost, Sreesanth also stated that the 35-year-old Kohli -- who ended with most runs in ODI WC at home (765 runs -- most by any in a single edition) -- takes it up on himself to deliver excellence every time he plays. Hence, he will be India's X-factor versus the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas.

<h2>'Virat loves to keep proving, rather than to anybody but to himself'</h2>

Sreesanth said, "Virat Kohli. Virat loves to keep proving, himself rather than to anybody but to himself. I think he’s that cricketer who plays with that pride and he takes that pride in a very good way, not in an egoistic way. So pride for me, and for Virat also I’m sure it’s like personal responsibility in delivering excellence. So, I will go with Virat and KL Rahul."

It is to be noted that Kohli has 719 runs in 14 innings in South Africa, including two hundreds and three fifties, at an average of 51.35.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-indian-opener-predicts-next-test-captain-after-rohit-sharma-666487">Former Indian opener predicts next Test captain after Rohit Sharma</a>

The former speedster also feels this is India's best chance to win their maiden Test series on South African soil. "I think this is the best opportunity. Since the time South Africa came back into the international scene, this time we do have a great opportunity and a great chance to win a series there which is like a dream come true," Sreesanth opined.

“I would love to see India winning the Test series. It will be like winning the World Cup because winning against South Africa in South Africa is not going to be easy but as the ad says, ‘Mazaa ayeega’ (it will be fun)," he further added.

India have been very competitive in their last two Test series in South Africa.&nbsp;However, they lost both the series by an identical margin (1-2 in 2018 and 2022/23).&nbsp;They will hope to turn it around under Rohit's captaincy.

The first Boxing Day Test will kick off on Dec 26 in Centurion, followed by the New Year's Test which commences on Jan 3 in Cape Town.

India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa:

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna.

Note: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth feels Virat Kohli will be India's X-factor during their forthcoming Test series versus South Africa. India will resume their campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle when they face hosts South Africa in the series opener on Dec 26.

Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth feels Virat Kohli will be India's X-factor during their forthcoming Test series versus South Africa. India will resume their campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle when they face hosts South Africa in the series opener on Dec 26. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian side will look to win their maiden red-ball series in South Africa. Sreesanth feels Kohli will be India's main player in the two Tests. Speaking to the Firstpost, Sreesanth also stated that the 35-year-old Kohli -- who ended with most runs in ODI WC at home (765 runs -- most by any in a single edition) -- takes it up on himself to deliver excellence every time he plays. Hence, he will be India's X-factor versus the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas. 'Virat loves to keep proving, rather than to anybody but to himself' Sreesanth said, "Virat Kohli. Virat loves to keep proving, himself rather than to anybody but to himself. I think he’s that cricketer who plays with that pride and he takes that pride in a very good way, not in an egoistic way. So pride for me, and for Virat also I’m sure it’s like personal responsibility in delivering excellence. So, I will go with Virat and KL Rahul." It is to be noted that Kohli has 719 runs in 14 innings in South Africa, including two hundreds and three fifties, at an average of 51.35. Also read: Former Indian opener predicts next Test captain after Rohit Sharma The former speedster also feels this is India's best chance to win their maiden Test series on South African soil. "I think this is the best opportunity. Since the time South Africa came back into the international scene, this time we do have a great opportunity and a great chance to win a series there which is like a dream come true," Sreesanth opined. “I would love to see India winning the Test series. It will be like winning the World Cup because winning against South Africa in South Africa is not going to be easy but as the ad says, ‘Mazaa ayeega’ (it will be fun)," he further added. India have been very competitive in their last two Test series in South Africa. However, they lost both the series by an identical margin (1-2 in 2018 and 2022/23). They will hope to turn it around under Rohit's captaincy. The first Boxing Day Test will kick off on Dec 26 in Centurion, followed by the New Year's Test which commences on Jan 3 in Cape Town. India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna. Note: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

Virat Kohli will be India's X-factor in upcoming SA Test series, feels former pacer S Sreesanth

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