Sourav Ganguly recalled Virat Kohli's infamous resignation as India captain in late 2021. Kohli announced his resignation as the T20I captain before the start of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Soon after the World Cup, he was sacked as the ODI captain and after the end of the India-South Africa Tests, which concluded in early 2022 in&nbsp;the African nation, Kohli stepped down as the Test captain as well, bringing curtains to his captaincy tenure. Back then, Ganguly was also criticised by many for playing a role in Kohli's resignation as he was serving as the BCCI chief.&nbsp;

Now, Ganguly has recalled the entire controversy and stated that he didn't play any role in Kohli leaving captaincy altogether. The former Indian captain said that he just asked Kohli to step down as the white-ball skipper after the latter had announced his resignation from T20Is.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I didn't remove Virat from captaincy. I have told this a lot of times. He was not interested to lead in T20Is. So, after he made that decision, I told him, if you're not interested to lead in T20Is, it's better if you step down from entire white-ball cricket. Let there be a white-ball captain and a red-ball captain," Ganguly said on Dadagiri Unlimited Season 10, a reality show.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-do-pcs-every-3-minutes-akrams-advice-for-new-pakistan-management-asks-them-to-be-brave-666383">Don't do PCs every 3 minutes: Akram's advice for new Pakistan management, asks them to 'be brave'</a>

In addition, Ganguly revealed he had to push Rohit Sharma to take over as the all-format captain after Kohli's resignation in January 2022. "I pushed Rohit Sharma a bit to take up the captaincy role because he wasn't interested to lead in all three formats of the game. So, maybe I have a bit of contribution in that but no matter who is administrating, it's the players who perform well on the field. I was appointed as the President of BCCI to work for the betterment of Indian cricket, this is a small part of it," he added.

Back then, Kohli wanted to carry on as the ODI and Test captain despite stepping down as the T20I skipper in September 2021. However, the board eventually sacked him as the ODI captain before he moved aside from the additional responsibility in the red-ball format. At present, Kohli is gearing up for India's two-match Test series versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26.

Sourav Ganguly recalled Virat Kohli's infamous resignation as India captain in late 2021. Kohli announced his resignation as the T20I captain before the start of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Sourav Ganguly recalled Virat Kohli's infamous resignation as India captain in late 2021. Kohli announced his resignation as the T20I captain before the start of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Soon after the World Cup, he was sacked as the ODI captain and after the end of the India-South Africa Tests, which concluded in early 2022 in the African nation, Kohli stepped down as the Test captain as well, bringing curtains to his captaincy tenure. Back then, Ganguly was also criticised by many for playing a role in Kohli's resignation as he was serving as the BCCI chief. Now, Ganguly has recalled the entire controversy and stated that he didn't play any role in Kohli leaving captaincy altogether. The former Indian captain said that he just asked Kohli to step down as the white-ball skipper after the latter had announced his resignation from T20Is. "I didn't remove Virat from captaincy. I have told this a lot of times. He was not interested to lead in T20Is. So, after he made that decision, I told him, if you're not interested to lead in T20Is, it's better if you step down from entire white-ball cricket. Let there be a white-ball captain and a red-ball captain," Ganguly said on Dadagiri Unlimited Season 10, a reality show. Also read: Don't do PCs every 3 minutes: Akram's advice for new Pakistan management, asks them to 'be brave' In addition, Ganguly revealed he had to push Rohit Sharma to take over as the all-format captain after Kohli's resignation in January 2022. "I pushed Rohit Sharma a bit to take up the captaincy role because he wasn't interested to lead in all three formats of the game. So, maybe I have a bit of contribution in that but no matter who is administrating, it's the players who perform well on the field. I was appointed as the President of BCCI to work for the betterment of Indian cricket, this is a small part of it," he added. Back then, Kohli wanted to carry on as the ODI and Test captain despite stepping down as the T20I skipper in September 2021. However, the board eventually sacked him as the ODI captain before he moved aside from the additional responsibility in the red-ball format. At present, Kohli is gearing up for India's two-match Test series versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26.

'Didn't remove Virat Kohli from captaincy': Former skipper and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly recalls controversy

Virat Kohli announced that he will step down as the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup. Post the showpiece event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before he eventually stepped down as the Test skipper. Under Kohli, India played four ICC tournaments where they reached the final twice, made it to the semi-finals once and bowed out of the group stage on one occasion. He led the charge for India in Tests and made them a ruthless side whereas the team remained consistent in bilaterals in white-ball formats but could not emerge on top in ICC knockouts.

During&nbsp;an appearance on the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) podcast, the 34-year-old Kohli recently revealed how many labelled him a failed captain for not winning an ICC title. "Look, you play to win tournaments. I captained in Champions Trophy 2017 (reached the final), 2019 World Cup (reached the semifinal), I captained in World Test Championship (reached the final), and T20 World Cup in 2021 (failed to qualify for the knockouts). After three (four) ICC tournaments, I was considered as a failed captain," Kohli said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-overtakes-james-anderson-to-become-no-1-ranked-bowler-during-day-1-of-indore-test-567152">Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin overtakes James Anderson to become No. 1 ranked bowler during Day 1 of Indore Test</a>

Now, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has responded to Kohli's critics. He feels 'not winning&nbsp;an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that Kohli&nbsp;wasn't a strong leader'. On his Youtube channel, Butt said,&nbsp;"People who do not understand the game of cricket very well judge a captain's performance based on how he has fared in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup. However, if you have a good win percentage and are tactically very strong, but haven't won a big tournament, it wouldn't be fair to say that you haven't been a good captain."

Butt further added, "There might have been a few mistakes in high-pressure games, or it might just have been a case of luck. Not winning an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that he [Virat Kohli] wasn't a strong leader."

At present, the Kohli-starrer Indian team is involved in the four-match Test series versus Australia. On Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, hosts India are on the back foot at stumps after being dismissed for 109. Australia ended the day's play at 156 for 4, with an overall lead of 47.

Leading the series 2-0, Rohit Sharma-led India are aiming for another win in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to cement a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. If India manage to win the WTC final, in June, they will finally end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. 
 
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Virat Kohli announced that he will step down as the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup. Post the showpiece event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before he eventually stepped down as the Test skipper.

Virat Kohli announced that he will step down as the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup. Post the showpiece event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before he eventually stepped down as the Test skipper. Under Kohli, India played four ICC tournaments where they reached the final twice, made it to the semi-finals once and bowed out of the group stage on one occasion. He led the charge for India in Tests and made them a ruthless side whereas the team remained consistent in bilaterals in white-ball formats but could not emerge on top in ICC knockouts. During an appearance on the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) podcast, the 34-year-old Kohli recently revealed how many labelled him a failed captain for not winning an ICC title. "Look, you play to win tournaments. I captained in Champions Trophy 2017 (reached the final), 2019 World Cup (reached the semifinal), I captained in World Test Championship (reached the final), and T20 World Cup in 2021 (failed to qualify for the knockouts). After three (four) ICC tournaments, I was considered as a failed captain," Kohli said. Also Read: Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin overtakes James Anderson to become No. 1 ranked bowler during Day 1 of Indore Test Now, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has responded to Kohli's critics. He feels 'not winning an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that Kohli wasn't a strong leader'. On his Youtube channel, Butt said, "People who do not understand the game of cricket very well judge a captain's performance based on how he has fared in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup. However, if you have a good win percentage and are tactically very strong, but haven't won a big tournament, it wouldn't be fair to say that you haven't been a good captain." Butt further added, "There might have been a few mistakes in high-pressure games, or it might just have been a case of luck. Not winning an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that he [Virat Kohli] wasn't a strong leader." At present, the Kohli-starrer Indian team is involved in the four-match Test series versus Australia. On Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, hosts India are on the back foot at stumps after being dismissed for 109. Australia ended the day's play at 156 for 4, with an overall lead of 47. Leading the series 2-0, Rohit Sharma-led India are aiming for another win in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to cement a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. If India manage to win the WTC final, in June, they will finally end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Not winning an ICC event...': Ex-Pak captain hits back at Kohli's critics who labelled him a 'failed' captain

From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain

Virat Kohli has signed off as India's Twenty20 captain after an unsuccessful ICC T20 World Cup 2021 campaign as India exited the tournament after failing to make it to the semi-finals. Kohli had said that it is time to manage the workload.&nbsp;

"It's been an honour, but things have to be kept in the right perspective. This was the right time for me to manage my workload. It's been six-seven years of intense cricket every time we take the field and it takes a lot out of you," Kohli said.&nbsp;

Even before the Covid-delayed tournament started in Dubai and Oman, Kohli had announced that he will step down as 20-overs captain. The news came as a shock to some, but some welcomed the decision as it is an opportunity for a new style of leadership - a breath of fresh air.&nbsp;

Despite being the hot favourites, India didn't get the start they needed as the Men In Blue lost their first two crucial matches against Pakistan and New Zealand. However, they won the last three games of the Super 12 stage against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but it wasn't enough for a semi-final berth from Group 2.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="wionews.com/photos/bilateral-success-in-sena-countries-to-run-machine-as-captain-reliving-virat-kohlis-t20i-captaincy-stint-427777">Bilateral success in SENA countries to run-machine as captain: Reliving Virat Kohli's T20I captaincy stint</a>

Virat has led the team to great heights in Test and white-ball cricket but critics have always pointed at his failure to land a World Cup triumph in either T20 or ODI cricket. But skipper or not, Kohli will always be the team's batting mainstay till the time he is playing for India.

Also, he stepped down from T20 format only as Kohli, who took over the T20 captaincy from MS Dhoni in 2017 will continue to captain India in Test and ODI cricket. Be it any format, his stint as a captain is&nbsp;an example, which is defined by his attitude as a leader.&nbsp;

There's no denying the fact that Virat is an outstanding batter, his growth as a cricketer has been&nbsp;a motivation to millions. Physically, he wasn't that&nbsp;fit as he is right now but hard work and a disciplined regime have made him a top-class athlete over the course of time.&nbsp;

When we see him on TV screens playing mesmerising cover-shots effortlessly, that's just the abstract...there's a mechanism behind it. His passion for the game is not hidden. He has been striving forward to learn and grow to become one of the greatest players in his time.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-points-what-went-wrong-for-india-at-t20-world-cup-2021-427652">5 points: What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021</a>

Leading the team by example is something that makes him a dynamic leader. He motivates the teammates and never shies away to express himself on the field. He intimidates the opponent, he can't be bullied by bowlers, dare to sledge him on the field. Virat will give it back and be the first person to come in defence of his mates in case of an on-field scuffle.&nbsp;

Virat's belligerent on-field attitude has been a catalyst in making India one of the most feared in recent times. The players know that the captain will have their backs. Remember how he got himself involved in the on-field banter between Indian pacer&nbsp;Mohammed Siraj and England's James Anderson during recent India vs England Test series in the UK.&nbsp;

Then again, he also came forward to support former Australian skipper Steve Smith during India vs Australia match in World Cup 2019. He had asked a group of fans to applaud Smith instead of mocking him over the infamous ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;

From dancing to banters to laughing and funny gestures, Virat's antics make him different. Although, these things do not matter as players are different and behave differently. But the talent and&nbsp;spirit of cricket in Virat is just next level.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-captain-a-mentor-and-a-coach-too-many-cooks-messed-up-the-meal-427885">A captain, a mentor and a coach: Too many cooks messed up the meal?</a>

Mentioning again, that Virat will continue to lead the Indian team in ODI and Test, however, there are reports that he might leave white-ball captaincy altogether. But he, himself said that his intensity on the field will remain the same. "That's never going to change. If I can't do that I will not play anymore. Even when I wasn't captain before I was always keen to see where the game is going. I'm not going to stand around and do nothing," Kohli said.&nbsp;

He is a prolific batter, outstanding teammate and a passionate ambassador of cricket. How to sum up his captaincy? Well, he is a combination of sugar and spice and everything nice.&nbsp;

If you are a 90s kid and have followed 'The Powerpuff Girls' then you must remember that 'sugar, spice and everything nice' were the ingredients chosen to create the perfect little girls but Professor Utonium accidentally added an extra ingredient to the concoction - Chemical X.&nbsp;

And in Virat's case, the 'Chemical X' is his passion for cricket and his hard work, which have been added by himself.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has signed off as India's Twenty20 captain after an unsuccessful ICC T20 World Cup 2021 campaign as India exited the tournament after failing to make it to the semi-finals.

Virat Kohli has signed off as India's Twenty20 captain after an unsuccessful ICC T20 World Cup 2021 campaign as India exited the tournament after failing to make it to the semi-finals. Kohli had said that it is time to manage the workload. "It's been an honour, but things have to be kept in the right perspective. This was the right time for me to manage my workload. It's been six-seven years of intense cricket every time we take the field and it takes a lot out of you," Kohli said. Even before the Covid-delayed tournament started in Dubai and Oman, Kohli had announced that he will step down as 20-overs captain. The news came as a shock to some, but some welcomed the decision as it is an opportunity for a new style of leadership - a breath of fresh air. Despite being the hot favourites, India didn't get the start they needed as the Men In Blue lost their first two crucial matches against Pakistan and New Zealand. However, they won the last three games of the Super 12 stage against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but it wasn't enough for a semi-final berth from Group 2. IN PICS | Bilateral success in SENA countries to run-machine as captain: Reliving Virat Kohli's T20I captaincy stint Virat has led the team to great heights in Test and white-ball cricket but critics have always pointed at his failure to land a World Cup triumph in either T20 or ODI cricket. But skipper or not, Kohli will always be the team's batting mainstay till the time he is playing for India. Also, he stepped down from T20 format only as Kohli, who took over the T20 captaincy from MS Dhoni in 2017 will continue to captain India in Test and ODI cricket. Be it any format, his stint as a captain is an example, which is defined by his attitude as a leader. There's no denying the fact that Virat is an outstanding batter, his growth as a cricketer has been a motivation to millions. Physically, he wasn't that fit as he is right now but hard work and a disciplined regime have made him a top-class athlete over the course of time. When we see him on TV screens playing mesmerising cover-shots effortlessly, that's just the abstract...there's a mechanism behind it. His passion for the game is not hidden. He has been striving forward to learn and grow to become one of the greatest players in his time. IN PICS | 5 points: What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021 Leading the team by example is something that makes him a dynamic leader. He motivates the teammates and never shies away to express himself on the field. He intimidates the opponent, he can't be bullied by bowlers, dare to sledge him on the field. Virat will give it back and be the first person to come in defence of his mates in case of an on-field scuffle. Virat's belligerent on-field attitude has been a catalyst in making India one of the most feared in recent times. The players know that the captain will have their backs. Remember how he got himself involved in the on-field banter between Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and England's James Anderson during recent India vs England Test series in the UK. Then again, he also came forward to support former Australian skipper Steve Smith during India vs Australia match in World Cup 2019. He had asked a group of fans to applaud Smith instead of mocking him over the infamous ball-tampering scandal. From dancing to banters to laughing and funny gestures, Virat's antics make him different. Although, these things do not matter as players are different and behave differently. But the talent and spirit of cricket in Virat is just next level. ALSO READ | A captain, a mentor and a coach: Too many cooks messed up the meal? Mentioning again, that Virat will continue to lead the Indian team in ODI and Test, however, there are reports that he might leave white-ball captaincy altogether. But he, himself said that his intensity on the field will remain the same. "That's never going to change. If I can't do that I will not play anymore. Even when I wasn't captain before I was always keen to see where the game is going. I'm not going to stand around and do nothing," Kohli said. He is a prolific batter, outstanding teammate and a passionate ambassador of cricket. How to sum up his captaincy? Well, he is a combination of sugar and spice and everything nice. If you are a 90s kid and have followed 'The Powerpuff Girls' then you must remember that 'sugar, spice and everything nice' were the ingredients chosen to create the perfect little girls but Professor Utonium accidentally added an extra ingredient to the concoction - Chemical X. And in Virat's case, the 'Chemical X' is his passion for cricket and his hard work, which have been added by himself.

Virat Kohli as captain: A tale of sugar and spice and everything nice

As the Indian cricket team is set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24), skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-understand-the-value-he-brings-virat-kohli-has-his-say-on-hardik-pandyas-availability-during-t20-wc-423296">Virat Kohli</a> opened up on a range of issues such as Hardik Pandya's availability, playing in the bio-bubble, the Indo-Pak clash.

However, a question around his decision to leave T20I captaincy appeared to have irritated the talismanic batter.&nbsp;

During the virtual press conference, Virat said: "I have already explained myself, I do not think I need to harp it on anymore."

"Our focus is to play well as a team in this tournament and do what we need to do. People are trying to dig something which does not exist, I am not someone who will give importance to that. I have explained myself honestly, if people think there is more to it, then certainly it is not the case."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-kaif-weighs-in-on-virat-kohli-vs-babar-azam-debate-ahead-of-indo-pak-clash-423263">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif weighs in on Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate ahead of Indo-Pak clash</a>

The Virat &amp; Co. are all set to open their campaign with an in-form team with the batting will heavily depend on the top three of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Kohli while the bowling has a dazzling mix of talent in both the spin and pace departments.&nbsp;

While an ICC trophy has eluded Kohli as a leader, he will have plenty of experience to tap into with the addition of team mentor Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who led India to the inaugural World T20 trophy in 2007 and the 50-over title four years later.

Kohli's men will also benefit from the exposure of playing the Indian Premier League for three weeks in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mentor-ms-dhoni-and-billion-cheers-jersey-why-indias-t20-world-cup-2021-campaign-will-be-remembered-forever-422991">Mentor MS Dhoni and Billion Cheers Jersey: Why India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign will be remembered forever</a>

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As the Indian cricket team is set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24), skipper Virat Kohli opened up on a range of issues such as Hardik Pandya's availability, playing in the bio-bubble, the Indo-Pak clash.

As the Indian cricket team is set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24), skipper Virat Kohli opened up on a range of issues such as Hardik Pandya's availability, playing in the bio-bubble, the Indo-Pak clash. However, a question around his decision to leave T20I captaincy appeared to have irritated the talismanic batter. During the virtual press conference, Virat said: "I have already explained myself, I do not think I need to harp it on anymore." "Our focus is to play well as a team in this tournament and do what we need to do. People are trying to dig something which does not exist, I am not someone who will give importance to that. I have explained myself honestly, if people think there is more to it, then certainly it is not the case." ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif weighs in on Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate ahead of Indo-Pak clash The Virat & Co. are all set to open their campaign with an in-form team with the batting will heavily depend on the top three of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Kohli while the bowling has a dazzling mix of talent in both the spin and pace departments. While an ICC trophy has eluded Kohli as a leader, he will have plenty of experience to tap into with the addition of team mentor Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who led India to the inaugural World T20 trophy in 2007 and the 50-over title four years later. Kohli's men will also benefit from the exposure of playing the Indian Premier League for three weeks in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. IN PICS | Mentor MS Dhoni and Billion Cheers Jersey: Why India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign will be remembered forever ×

'People are trying to dig something': Virat Kohli on decision to leave T20I captaincy

Virat Kohli bids adieu to RCB captaincy: A look at his five best moments as a skipper

The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 317-run margin is also India's fifth-highest ever win by runs as the hosts&nbsp;topped&nbsp;their previous biggest win against England (279-run win) at the&nbsp;Headingley&nbsp;in 1986.&nbsp;Overall, against all the opponents, India's 337-run win against South Africa in Delhi in the 2015-16 series remains the biggest followed by a 321-run win over New Zealand in Indore in 2016-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Third in the list remains India's massive 320-run win against Australia in Mohali in the 2009 series followed by a 318-run win over the West Indies in North Sound, Antigua in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-never-crib-about-overseas-conditions-r-ashwin-shuts-down-chennai-pitch-critics-364029" hreflang="en">Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics</a>

Notably, India's five of India's top six highest margins of wins (in terms of runs) have come under the leadership of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{48739035-a540-4aef-bf1d-0534550b9036}{168}" paraid="1341085606" >Biggest Test wins for India (by runs)&nbsp;</h2>

337 vs SA Delhi 2015/16&nbsp; 
321 vs NZ Indore 2016/17&nbsp; 
320 vs Aus Mohali 2008/09&nbsp; 
318 vs WI North Sound 2019&nbsp; 
317 vs Eng Chennai 2020/21&nbsp; 
304 vs SL Galle 2017&nbsp;

&nbsp;England lost the second Test&nbsp;in Chennai&nbsp;by 317 runs as India drew level in the four-match series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It was a bit strange in the first game to be playing at home with empty stands. We were pretty flat on the first two days over there to be pretty honest, myself included, didn't pick up energy on the field. But from the second innings onwards in the first game, we picked up and were on the money in terms of our body language,” skipper Virat Kohli told host broadcasters in the post-match presentation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a>

"The crowds make a big&nbsp;difference,&nbsp;this game was an example of the grit and determination this side shows and the crowd is a big part of that. Chennai crowd are very intelligent, they understand their cricket really well. In a&nbsp;15-20 minute&nbsp;period where the bowler needs the support of the crowd, it is my responsibility to involve everyone and bring in the crowd. If I am running in to bowl in this heat, I need people to motivate me. It is a perfect game for us,” he added.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The 317-run margin is also India's fifth-highest ever win by runs as the hosts topped their previous biggest win against England (279-run win) at the Headingley in 1986. Overall, against all the opponents, India's 337-run win against South Africa in Delhi in the 2015-16 series remains the biggest followed by a 321-run win over New Zealand in Indore in 2016-17. Third in the list remains India's massive 320-run win against Australia in Mohali in the 2009 series followed by a 318-run win over the West Indies in North Sound, Antigua in 2019. ALSO READ: Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics Notably, India's five of India's top six highest margins of wins (in terms of runs) have come under the leadership of Virat Kohli. Biggest Test wins for India (by runs) 337 vs SA Delhi 2015/16 321 vs NZ Indore 2016/17 320 vs Aus Mohali 2008/09 318 vs WI North Sound 2019 317 vs Eng Chennai 2020/21 304 vs SL Galle 2017 England lost the second Test in Chennai by 317 runs as India drew level in the four-match series. "It was a bit strange in the first game to be playing at home with empty stands. We were pretty flat on the first two days over there to be pretty honest, myself included, didn't pick up energy on the field. But from the second innings onwards in the first game, we picked up and were on the money in terms of our body language,” skipper Virat Kohli told host broadcasters in the post-match presentation. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table "The crowds make a big difference, this game was an example of the grit and determination this side shows and the crowd is a big part of that. Chennai crowd are very intelligent, they understand their cricket really well. In a 15-20 minute period where the bowler needs the support of the crowd, it is my responsibility to involve everyone and bring in the crowd. If I am running in to bowl in this heat, I need people to motivate me. It is a perfect game for us,” he added.

India's 2nd Test win in Chennai is their biggest win against England by runs

Former England spinner Monty Panesar has said that Virat Kohli’s Test captaincy career could come to an end if India lose the second Test, scheduled to the played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13. The Kohli-led Indian team suffered a crushing 227-run defeat against England in Chennai with the visitors going 1-0 up in the four-Test series.

England also brought an end to India’s domination at home by inflicting their first defeat in Chennai since 1999. The crushing 227-run defeat against England also marks an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests.

The four-Test series started amid debates on who should be India’s Test captain after Ajinkya Rahane incredibly led the side to a historic Test series win in Australia. Under Kohli’s captaincy, India have now lost their last four Test matches – two in New Zealand in 2019/20, Adelaide Test in Australia and the latest coming in Chennai.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-excuses-virat-kohli-assesses-indias-horror-defeat-in-chennai-against-england-362398" hreflang="en">'No excuses': Virat Kohli assesses India's horror defeat in Chennai against England</a>

With calls regarding India’s Test captain intensifying with post-match reactions coming from fans and pundits, Panesar said that Kohli’s captaincy could to an end if India lose the second Test in Chennai against England.

“Virat Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all-time. But the team is simply not doing well under him and we have the result in the last four Test that India played under him. I think Kohli will be under pressure and more now because Rahane has done phenomenally well as the captain. India have already lost four Tests in a row and if the number goes to five in the next match, then I think he will step down from his role,” Monty Panesar told WION in an exclusive interaction after the end of first Test.

Panesar, who picked up 17 wickets in England’s historic series win against India in 2012/13, also criticized Kohli and Indian team management’s move to play Shahbaz Nadeem over Kuldeep Yadav.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a>

Nadeem struggled for consistency during the course of the Test as he gave away 167 runs in 44 overs, and 66 in 15 overs in the two innings respectively. The left-arm orthodox spinner managed to scalp just four wickets while bowling eight no balls in both the innings.

“I just don’t understand why India would play Shahbaz Nadeem over Kuldeep Yadav. Kuldeep has been with the team since ages, he is bowling regularly in the nets and is in a rhythm. I don’t know how much Nadeem has played since the lockdown but Kuldeep should have started,” Panesar, who played 50 Tests for England, added.

Reflecting on the massive 227-run win, Panesar said it is a moment of history that has bring joy to the England cricket fans.

“It is an unbelievable win. The way England have played over the last five days show how much confidence is there in that team. Joe Root needs to be lauded for the way he led his troops from the front. Everyone in that team stepped up in some manner and that is what makes team sport great. The players need to savior this moment. It will be celebrated for long,” Panesar concluded.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-drop-to-4th-after-chennai-test-heres-updated-standings-362403" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India drop to 4th after Chennai Test; Here's updated standings</a>

England, after posting a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, bundled out India for 337 before posting a target of 420 runs for the hosts. However, India, in reply, were skittled out for 192 runs to complete the 227-run defeat.&nbsp;

While India will look to bounce back in the second Test, to be played in Chennai from February 13; England will be looking to carry the winning momentum. England lead the series 0-1.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar has said that Virat Kohli’s Test captaincy career could come to an end if India lose the second Test, scheduled to the played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar has said that Virat Kohli’s Test captaincy career could come to an end if India lose the second Test, scheduled to the played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13. The Kohli-led Indian team suffered a crushing 227-run defeat against England in Chennai with the visitors going 1-0 up in the four-Test series. England also brought an end to India’s domination at home by inflicting their first defeat in Chennai since 1999. The crushing 227-run defeat against England also marks an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. The four-Test series started amid debates on who should be India’s Test captain after Ajinkya Rahane incredibly led the side to a historic Test series win in Australia. Under Kohli’s captaincy, India have now lost their last four Test matches – two in New Zealand in 2019/20, Adelaide Test in Australia and the latest coming in Chennai. ALSO READ: 'No excuses': Virat Kohli assesses India's horror defeat in Chennai against England With calls regarding India’s Test captain intensifying with post-match reactions coming from fans and pundits, Panesar said that Kohli’s captaincy could to an end if India lose the second Test in Chennai against England. “Virat Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all-time. But the team is simply not doing well under him and we have the result in the last four Test that India played under him. I think Kohli will be under pressure and more now because Rahane has done phenomenally well as the captain. India have already lost four Tests in a row and if the number goes to five in the next match, then I think he will step down from his role,” Monty Panesar told WION in an exclusive interaction after the end of first Test. Panesar, who picked up 17 wickets in England’s historic series win against India in 2012/13, also criticized Kohli and Indian team management’s move to play Shahbaz Nadeem over Kuldeep Yadav. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket Nadeem struggled for consistency during the course of the Test as he gave away 167 runs in 44 overs, and 66 in 15 overs in the two innings respectively. The left-arm orthodox spinner managed to scalp just four wickets while bowling eight no balls in both the innings. “I just don’t understand why India would play Shahbaz Nadeem over Kuldeep Yadav. Kuldeep has been with the team since ages, he is bowling regularly in the nets and is in a rhythm. I don’t know how much Nadeem has played since the lockdown but Kuldeep should have started,” Panesar, who played 50 Tests for England, added. Reflecting on the massive 227-run win, Panesar said it is a moment of history that has bring joy to the England cricket fans. “It is an unbelievable win. The way England have played over the last five days show how much confidence is there in that team. Joe Root needs to be lauded for the way he led his troops from the front. Everyone in that team stepped up in some manner and that is what makes team sport great. The players need to savior this moment. It will be celebrated for long,” Panesar concluded. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India drop to 4th after Chennai Test; Here's updated standings England, after posting a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, bundled out India for 337 before posting a target of 420 runs for the hosts. However, India, in reply, were skittled out for 192 runs to complete the 227-run defeat. While India will look to bounce back in the second Test, to be played in Chennai from February 13; England will be looking to carry the winning momentum. England lead the series 0-1.

Virat Kohli's captaincy career could end if India lose 2nd Test against England: Monty Panesar to WION