<p>Rohit Sharma is set to start his captaincy tenure in the red-ball format as India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two-match Test series, starting on March 04 (Friday) in Mohali. So far, Rohit has got off to a flying start as the white-ball captain but it will be the first time that he will lead the national side in whites.</p>

<p>For the unversed, Rohit had&nbsp;led India on numerous occasions in white-ball formats before being the full-time limited-overs skipper, however, he never led in Test matches. He could've led India in the South Africa Tests, held early this year in the African nation, as then captain Virat Kohli had missed a game due to injury. During the SA tour, Hitman was named the vice-captain in whites.&nbsp;However, since he missed the whole tour due to injury, he couldn't lead in whites. Thus, the stage is finally set for the 34-year-old's debut as Test captain with the commencement of the SL series at home.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-virat-kohli-celebrates-his-100th-test-milestone-with-a-century-against-sri-lanka-sunil-gavaskar-457781"><strong>Hope Virat Kohli celebrates his 100th Test milestone with a century against Sri Lanka: Sunil Gavaskar</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the series opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed Rohit to deliver even as the red-ball captain due to his experience. "With the experience that he has had over the years of captaining various teams, that should not be too much of an issue. Yes, this is the longer format, so the tactics will be different, the approach will be different. But he has got the experience, so don't really foresee anything majorly difficult for the captain," Gavaskar told Star Sports ahead of India's meeting with Sri Lanka at Mohali.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captaincy-an-added-responsibility-rohit-sharma-should-not-lose-focus-on-his-batting-ex-india-selector-457483">Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit was appointed India's full-time captain after Kohli resigned as the Test skipper post the SA series, which ended during mid-January 2022. It will be interesting to see how he takes the team forward in the purest format after the national side's highly-successful run under Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India's squad for SL Test series:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar</p>


Rohit Sharma is set to start his captaincy tenure in the red-ball format as India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two-match Test series, starting on March 04 (Friday) in Mohali.

Rohit Sharma is set to start his captaincy tenure in the red-ball format as India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two-match Test series, starting on March 04 (Friday) in Mohali. So far, Rohit has got off to a flying start as the white-ball captain but it will be the first time that he will lead the national side in whites. For the unversed, Rohit had led India on numerous occasions in white-ball formats before being the full-time limited-overs skipper, however, he never led in Test matches. He could've led India in the South Africa Tests, held early this year in the African nation, as then captain Virat Kohli had missed a game due to injury. During the SA tour, Hitman was named the vice-captain in whites. However, since he missed the whole tour due to injury, he couldn't lead in whites. Thus, the stage is finally set for the 34-year-old's debut as Test captain with the commencement of the SL series at home. ALSO READ | Hope Virat Kohli celebrates his 100th Test milestone with a century against Sri Lanka: Sunil Gavaskar Ahead of the series opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed Rohit to deliver even as the red-ball captain due to his experience. "With the experience that he has had over the years of captaining various teams, that should not be too much of an issue. Yes, this is the longer format, so the tactics will be different, the approach will be different. But he has got the experience, so don't really foresee anything majorly difficult for the captain," Gavaskar told Star Sports ahead of India's meeting with Sri Lanka at Mohali. ALSO READ | Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector Rohit was appointed India's full-time captain after Kohli resigned as the Test skipper post the SA series, which ended during mid-January 2022. It will be interesting to see how he takes the team forward in the purest format after the national side's highly-successful run under Kohli. India's squad for SL Test series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Tactics will be different, approach will be different: Sunil Gavaskar on Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy debut

<p>Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar said he wishes to see former India captain Virat Kohli get a century in his 100th Test appearance for the Indian cricket team this week. Kohli will take the field in his 100th Test for the country when India will lock horns with Sri Lanka in the first Test of the upcoming two-match Test series that gets underway from March 04 (Friday).</p>

<p>Kohli will be playing his 100th Test behind closed doors at the PCA Stadium in Mohali. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been facing flak from cricket fans for not allowing fans for Kohli's 100th Test. Nonetheless, it will be a monumental achievement for Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batters in the world at present.</p>

<p>Gavaskar, who is the first Indian to have played 100&nbsp;Tests for the country, said he hopes Kohli celebrates the occasion with a hundred. Kohli has not scored a hundred across any formats in international cricket since November 2019. Kohli will become the 11th Indian to play 100 Tests after the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Kapil Dev among others.</p>

<p>However, he will be the first Indian to score a century in his 100th Test if he manages to achieve the feat in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali. Overall, only nine batters in the world have managed to score a century in their 100th Test appearance.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointing-that-virat-kohlis-100th-test-will-be-played-behind-closed-doors-sunil-gavaskar-457538">Disappointing that Virat Kohli's 100th Test will be played behind closed doors: Sunil Gavaskar</a></p>

<p>"I hope he celebrates his 100th Test with a 100. Not many batsmen have done that. I know Colin Cowdrey, who was probably the first to play 100 Test matches, scored a hundred in his 100th Test. I know Javed Miandad has done it. Alex Stewart has done it," Gavaskar said on <em>Star Sports.</em></p>

<p>The batting legend also recalled his 100th Test as a player and revealed how he could only manage to get 48 runs in the game before clipping a half volley to square leg to be dismissed.</p>

<p>"Lots of batsman have played 100 Tests but did not get a hundred in that Test match. I clipped a half volley to square leg when I was batting on 48. Can you believe it, on 48? Simple catch that was," Gavaskar recalled.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captaincy-an-added-responsibility-rohit-sharma-should-not-lose-focus-on-his-batting-ex-india-selector-457483">Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector</a></p>

<p>Gavaskar also shared his experience of playing 100 Tests for India and said it gives the player a sense of achievement as this is a moment they have dreamt of since they started playing cricket at a very young age. Gavaskar also lauded Kohli for his achievements across all formats of the game.</p>

<p>"Well, I can only say that it is going to be a sense of achievement. When you start playing cricket as a school kid, you want to play for India and hoping that you play for India for a certain while and suddenly you know, success comes to you and then you go on from year to year and then the 100th Test comes to you," said the legendary cricketer.</p>

<p>"It's a very special feeling. And look at what he has achieved in all formats of the game, not just Test cricket, where he has been fabulous," he added.</p>


Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar said he wishes to see former India captain Virat Kohli get a century in his 100th Test appearance for the Indian cricket team this week.

Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar said he wishes to see former India captain Virat Kohli get a century in his 100th Test appearance for the Indian cricket team this week. Kohli will take the field in his 100th Test for the country when India will lock horns with Sri Lanka in the first Test of the upcoming two-match Test series that gets underway from March 04 (Friday). Kohli will be playing his 100th Test behind closed doors at the PCA Stadium in Mohali. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been facing flak from cricket fans for not allowing fans for Kohli's 100th Test. Nonetheless, it will be a monumental achievement for Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batters in the world at present. Gavaskar, who is the first Indian to have played 100 Tests for the country, said he hopes Kohli celebrates the occasion with a hundred. Kohli has not scored a hundred across any formats in international cricket since November 2019. Kohli will become the 11th Indian to play 100 Tests after the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Kapil Dev among others. However, he will be the first Indian to score a century in his 100th Test if he manages to achieve the feat in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali. Overall, only nine batters in the world have managed to score a century in their 100th Test appearance. Also Read: Disappointing that Virat Kohli's 100th Test will be played behind closed doors: Sunil Gavaskar "I hope he celebrates his 100th Test with a 100. Not many batsmen have done that. I know Colin Cowdrey, who was probably the first to play 100 Test matches, scored a hundred in his 100th Test. I know Javed Miandad has done it. Alex Stewart has done it," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. The batting legend also recalled his 100th Test as a player and revealed how he could only manage to get 48 runs in the game before clipping a half volley to square leg to be dismissed. "Lots of batsman have played 100 Tests but did not get a hundred in that Test match. I clipped a half volley to square leg when I was batting on 48. Can you believe it, on 48? Simple catch that was," Gavaskar recalled. Also Read: Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector Gavaskar also shared his experience of playing 100 Tests for India and said it gives the player a sense of achievement as this is a moment they have dreamt of since they started playing cricket at a very young age. Gavaskar also lauded Kohli for his achievements across all formats of the game. "Well, I can only say that it is going to be a sense of achievement. When you start playing cricket as a school kid, you want to play for India and hoping that you play for India for a certain while and suddenly you know, success comes to you and then you go on from year to year and then the 100th Test comes to you," said the legendary cricketer. "It's a very special feeling. And look at what he has achieved in all formats of the game, not just Test cricket, where he has been fabulous," he added.

Hope Virat Kohli celebrates his 100th Test milestone with a century against Sri Lanka: Sunil Gavaskar

<p>Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka T20Is at home. The right-hander stood tall against the Sri Lankans in all three games and ended the series with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to remain unbeaten throughout the three-match series and walk away with the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series award.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a modest 147-run chase in the third and final encounter, Iyer came out in the middle at 6-1 and remained unbeaten on 73, studded with 9 fours and a six at a strike rate of 162.22. Courtesy his memorable run versus the Islanders, Iyer joined Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in an elite feat. He is&nbsp;now one of the four Indian batters to score 3 consecutive half-centuries in the shortest format.</p>

<p>The former captain Kohli was&nbsp;the first Indian to achieve this milestone. He had first hit 3 back-to-back fifty-plus scores in 2012 and replicated the same in 2014 and 2018. Rohit achieved the elusive feat in 2018 as well whereas current white-ball vice-captain&nbsp;Rahul has attained&nbsp;the&nbsp;milestone twice - in 2020 and 2021. For the unversed, Iyer and Kohli are the only 2 Indian batsmen to score 3 back-to-back half-centuries in a series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-sri-lanka-in-3rd-t20i-to-clinch-series-3-0-equal-record-for-most-t20i-wins-on-the-trot-457228">India beat Sri Lanka in 3rd T20I to clinch series 3-0, equal record for most T20I wins on the trot</a></strong></p>

<p>After the series, Iyer said at the post-match presentation, "All three knocks were special, but yesterday's - coming in at a crucial moment, I'd pick that. Only require one ball to get into form as long as you're keeping your eyes on the ball and playing it on its merit. The wicket was little two paced today compared to yesterday. Was playing on the merit. Outfield is so fast, just had to hit gaps. Been a rollercoster journey after my injury. Real test of you is during rehab sessions."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mayank-agarwal-wins-captaincy-race-to-be-named-punjab-kings-skipper-ahead-of-ipl-2022-457319"><strong>Mayank Agarwal wins captaincy race to be named Punjab Kings' skipper ahead of IPL 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>The focus will now shift to the India-Sri Lanka two-match Test series, which will get underway on March 04. The first Test will be held in Mohali, behind closed doors, whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final encounter -- with 50% crowd -- from March 12-16.</p>


Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka T20Is at home. The right-hander stood tall against the Sri Lankans in all three games and ended the series with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to remain unbeaten throughout the three-match series and walk away with the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series award.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka T20Is at home. The right-hander stood tall against the Sri Lankans in all three games and ended the series with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to remain unbeaten throughout the three-match series and walk away with the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series award. In a modest 147-run chase in the third and final encounter, Iyer came out in the middle at 6-1 and remained unbeaten on 73, studded with 9 fours and a six at a strike rate of 162.22. Courtesy his memorable run versus the Islanders, Iyer joined Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in an elite feat. He is now one of the four Indian batters to score 3 consecutive half-centuries in the shortest format. The former captain Kohli was the first Indian to achieve this milestone. He had first hit 3 back-to-back fifty-plus scores in 2012 and replicated the same in 2014 and 2018. Rohit achieved the elusive feat in 2018 as well whereas current white-ball vice-captain Rahul has attained the milestone twice - in 2020 and 2021. For the unversed, Iyer and Kohli are the only 2 Indian batsmen to score 3 back-to-back half-centuries in a series. ALSO READ | India beat Sri Lanka in 3rd T20I to clinch series 3-0, equal record for most T20I wins on the trot After the series, Iyer said at the post-match presentation, "All three knocks were special, but yesterday's - coming in at a crucial moment, I'd pick that. Only require one ball to get into form as long as you're keeping your eyes on the ball and playing it on its merit. The wicket was little two paced today compared to yesterday. Was playing on the merit. Outfield is so fast, just had to hit gaps. Been a rollercoster journey after my injury. Real test of you is during rehab sessions." ALSO READ | Mayank Agarwal wins captaincy race to be named Punjab Kings' skipper ahead of IPL 2022 The focus will now shift to the India-Sri Lanka two-match Test series, which will get underway on March 04. The first Test will be held in Mohali, behind closed doors, whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final encounter -- with 50% crowd -- from March 12-16.

Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is

<p>Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders.</p>

<p>Thus, Iyer has made a strong case to be a regular in the playing XI in the shortest format, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he still intense competition due to the presence of Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant (both of whom didn't feature in the SL series) along with currently out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-in-elite-list-after-dream-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457333"><strong>Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>After his memorable series versus the Asian neighbours, Iyer revealed his preferred batting slot amid intense competition for slots in the national side. "I'm not keeping any expectations from myself nor from the team coaches because if you see the competition in our team, it's immense. Every individual is capable of winning you games. Personally I want to enjoy each and every moment and opportunity, which I've been provided with. I like to finish off the games and that's like my mindset whenever I go onto the pitch," he said in the post-match conference.</p>

<p>"Obviously in this format, top-three is the only place where you can pace your innings pretty well. Otherwise if you bat down the order you can't give yourself time you need to start going from ball one. So yeah, if I had to say the best number to bat for me personally, it's obviously No. 3," Iyer added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-cant-be-replaced-gavaskar-on-in-form-shreyas-iyers-batting-position-for-team-india-in-t20is-457412">Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is</a></strong></p>

<p>After the SL series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar also opined on problems of plenty for the Indian team. He suggested a slot for Iyer in the batting line-up and told Star Sports, "It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned."</p>

<p>“There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further asserted.</p>


Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders. Thus, Iyer has made a strong case to be a regular in the playing XI in the shortest format, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he still intense competition due to the presence of Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant (both of whom didn't feature in the SL series) along with currently out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya. ALSO READ | Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is After his memorable series versus the Asian neighbours, Iyer revealed his preferred batting slot amid intense competition for slots in the national side. "I'm not keeping any expectations from myself nor from the team coaches because if you see the competition in our team, it's immense. Every individual is capable of winning you games. Personally I want to enjoy each and every moment and opportunity, which I've been provided with. I like to finish off the games and that's like my mindset whenever I go onto the pitch," he said in the post-match conference. "Obviously in this format, top-three is the only place where you can pace your innings pretty well. Otherwise if you bat down the order you can't give yourself time you need to start going from ball one. So yeah, if I had to say the best number to bat for me personally, it's obviously No. 3," Iyer added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is After the SL series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar also opined on problems of plenty for the Indian team. He suggested a slot for Iyer in the batting line-up and told Star Sports, "It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned." “There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further asserted.

'Best number for me is....' - Shreyas Iyer reveals his preferred batting slot after Sri Lanka T20Is

<p>Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has reacted to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to conduct Virat Kohli's 100th Test match for India behind closed doors in Mohali. The first Test of the upcoming two-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka in Mohali will be Kohli's 100th for the national side.</p>

<p>The first Test between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from March 04. While it will be a special occasion for Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batters of the present era, BCCI's decision to not allow fans for the game has invited criticism from fans, who believe Kohli deserved to play his 100th Test in front of a crowd in Mohali.</p>

<p>Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) treasurer RP Singla on Saturday confirmed that fans will not be allowed inside the stadium for Kohli's milestone Test appearance. He informed that the decision was taken after a directive from the BCCI. While fans had expected better arrangements for Kohli's 100th Test, the former India captain will now make his 100th appearance in whites behind closed doors.</p>

<p>Gavaskar said it was disappointing to not have fans in the stadium for Kohli's 100th Test for India but insisted that the decision by the BCCI was taken in greater interest considering the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in and around the city.</p>

<p>"Any game that you play, you want the crowd to be there. India has played without any crowds in recent times. Any performer, be it an actor, be it a cricketer, wants to play in front of the crowd. The 100th Test is very very special. Disappointing that there is going to be no crowd, but I think the decision has been taken in the greater interest. The cases have increased in and around Mohali, where the match is going to be played," Sunil Gavaskar told <em>Sports Today.</em></p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trolls-are-not-real-indians-mohammed-shami-on-facing-online-abuse-after-defeat-against-pakistan-in-t20-wc-457514">Trolls are not real Indians: Md. Shami on facing online abuse after defeat against Pakistan in T20 WC</a></p>

<p>While a number of series and matches have been played behind closed doors in the last couple of years, BCCI's decision of conducting Kohli's 100th Test without fans has not gone down well with the BCCI as the recently-concluded T20I series between India and Sri Lanka was played in front of fans in Lucknow and Dharamshala.</p>

<p>Fans were also allowed inside the stadium during the T20I series between India and West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has reacted to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to conduct Virat Kohli's 100th Test match for India behind closed doors in Mohali.

Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has reacted to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to conduct Virat Kohli's 100th Test match for India behind closed doors in Mohali. The first Test of the upcoming two-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka in Mohali will be Kohli's 100th for the national side. The first Test between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from March 04. While it will be a special occasion for Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batters of the present era, BCCI's decision to not allow fans for the game has invited criticism from fans, who believe Kohli deserved to play his 100th Test in front of a crowd in Mohali. Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) treasurer RP Singla on Saturday confirmed that fans will not be allowed inside the stadium for Kohli's milestone Test appearance. He informed that the decision was taken after a directive from the BCCI. While fans had expected better arrangements for Kohli's 100th Test, the former India captain will now make his 100th appearance in whites behind closed doors. Gavaskar said it was disappointing to not have fans in the stadium for Kohli's 100th Test for India but insisted that the decision by the BCCI was taken in greater interest considering the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in and around the city. "Any game that you play, you want the crowd to be there. India has played without any crowds in recent times. Any performer, be it an actor, be it a cricketer, wants to play in front of the crowd. The 100th Test is very very special. Disappointing that there is going to be no crowd, but I think the decision has been taken in the greater interest. The cases have increased in and around Mohali, where the match is going to be played," Sunil Gavaskar told Sports Today. Also Read: Trolls are not real Indians: Md. Shami on facing online abuse after defeat against Pakistan in T20 WC While a number of series and matches have been played behind closed doors in the last couple of years, BCCI's decision of conducting Kohli's 100th Test without fans has not gone down well with the BCCI as the recently-concluded T20I series between India and Sri Lanka was played in front of fans in Lucknow and Dharamshala. Fans were also allowed inside the stadium during the T20I series between India and West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Disappointing that Virat Kohli's 100th Test will be played behind closed doors: Sunil Gavaskar

<p>After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector&nbsp;Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.</p>

<p>Ahead of the series, the national selectors had dropped senior pros Pujara and Rahane along with Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. With room in the middle and lower order, Gandhi feels Vihari 'deserves a fair run'. Gandhi also shared his batting order, which doesn't comprise in-form Shreyas Iyer.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captaincy-an-added-responsibility-rohit-sharma-should-not-lose-focus-on-his-batting-ex-india-selector-457483"><strong>Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector</strong></a></p>

<p>"Firstly, Vihari has played only one Test at home and he, above everyone, else deserves a fair run. Secondly, if you see for India and India A, he has batted at No.5 abroad but in India, he can come in at No.6 when spinners will be in operation and the 'SG Test' ball becomes relatively old." He asserted, "Vihari has a fantastic record against spinners in Ranji Trophy and that's something the team management can exploit."</p>

<p>“If you see our top-order, Mayank, Rohit, Shubman and Virat are all right-handers. It's better if at No.5 we have a left-hander to get the left-right combination going followed by Vihari at No.6 and Ravindra Jadeja, again a left-hander at No.7. It could be the way forward," added Gandhi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wondered-how-someone-could-md-shami-shares-his-first-reaction-on-seeing-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-457450"><strong>'I wondered how someone could...': Md Shami shares his first reaction on seeing pacer Jasprit Bumrah</strong></a></p>

<p>In his brief Test career, playing 13 games so far, Vihari has done reasonably well by playing some important and valuable knocks with the willow. He has also chipped in with few handy wickets and his off-spin might be a key factor in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India preferring him in the playing XI.</p>

<p>However, it will be very difficult for the team management to look beyond Iyer, who was the Player-of-the-Series in the SL T20Is and second highest-run getter in the India-NZ Tests last year (his maiden series in whites).</p>

<p>The first Test will be held behind closed doors in Mohali whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final Test with a 50% crowd capacity.</p>


After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Ahead of the series, the national selectors had dropped senior pros Pujara and Rahane along with Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. With room in the middle and lower order, Gandhi feels Vihari 'deserves a fair run'. Gandhi also shared his batting order, which doesn't comprise in-form Shreyas Iyer. ALSO READ | Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector "Firstly, Vihari has played only one Test at home and he, above everyone, else deserves a fair run. Secondly, if you see for India and India A, he has batted at No.5 abroad but in India, he can come in at No.6 when spinners will be in operation and the 'SG Test' ball becomes relatively old." He asserted, "Vihari has a fantastic record against spinners in Ranji Trophy and that's something the team management can exploit." “If you see our top-order, Mayank, Rohit, Shubman and Virat are all right-handers. It's better if at No.5 we have a left-hander to get the left-right combination going followed by Vihari at No.6 and Ravindra Jadeja, again a left-hander at No.7. It could be the way forward," added Gandhi. ALSO READ | 'I wondered how someone could...': Md Shami shares his first reaction on seeing pacer Jasprit Bumrah In his brief Test career, playing 13 games so far, Vihari has done reasonably well by playing some important and valuable knocks with the willow. He has also chipped in with few handy wickets and his off-spin might be a key factor in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India preferring him in the playing XI. However, it will be very difficult for the team management to look beyond Iyer, who was the Player-of-the-Series in the SL T20Is and second highest-run getter in the India-NZ Tests last year (his maiden series in whites). The first Test will be held behind closed doors in Mohali whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final Test with a 50% crowd capacity.

Ex-Indian selector explains why Hanuma Vihari deserves a fair run in Tests after Pujara, Rahane snub

<p>India demolished Sri Lanka in the just-concluded three T20Is at home. Rohit Sharma-led Indian team inflicted a whitewash over the hapless Dasun Shanaka-led Islanders to continue their winning streak in the format, which is now joint-most along with Afghanistan (12).</p>

<p>In the absence of former captain Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Md Shami, etc., Indian youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Avesh Khan made a mark to finish off the series with a 3-0 scoreline. Iyer was the most outstanding performer for the national side, ending with scores of&nbsp;57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) along with remaining unbeaten throughout the course of the series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-in-elite-list-after-dream-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457333"><strong>Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking on&nbsp;<em>Star Sports</em>, Sunil Gavaskar lauded Iyer and also opined on his batting slot when regulars such as Kohli, Rahul, SKY return. He told, “It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned.</p>

<p>“There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further said.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-really-feel-sad-wasim-jaffer-disappointed-with-sanju-samsons-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457368"><strong>'I really feel sad' - Wasim Jaffer disappointed with Sanju Samson's run in Sri Lanka T20Is</strong></a></p>
At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match and Player-of-the-Series Iyer told the broadcasters, "All three knocks were special, but yesterday's - coming in at a crucial moment, I'd pick that. Only require one ball to get into form as long as you're keeping your eyes on the ball and playing it on its merit. The wicket was little two paced today compared to yesterday. Was playing on the merit. Outfield is so fast, just had to hit gaps. Been a rollercoster journey after my injury. Real test of you is during rehab sessions."

<section>&nbsp;</section>
</section>


India demolished Sri Lanka in the just-concluded three T20Is at home. Rohit Sharma-led Indian team inflicted a whitewash over the hapless Dasun Shanaka-led Islanders to continue their winning streak in the format, which is now joint-most along with Afghanistan (12).

India demolished Sri Lanka in the just-concluded three T20Is at home. Rohit Sharma-led Indian team inflicted a whitewash over the hapless Dasun Shanaka-led Islanders to continue their winning streak in the format, which is now joint-most along with Afghanistan (12). In the absence of former captain Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Md Shami, etc., Indian youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Avesh Khan made a mark to finish off the series with a 3-0 scoreline. Iyer was the most outstanding performer for the national side, ending with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) along with remaining unbeaten throughout the course of the series. ALSO READ | Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is Speaking on Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar lauded Iyer and also opined on his batting slot when regulars such as Kohli, Rahul, SKY return. He told, “It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned. “There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further said. ALSO READ | 'I really feel sad' - Wasim Jaffer disappointed with Sanju Samson's run in Sri Lanka T20Is At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match and Player-of-the-Series Iyer told the broadcasters, "All three knocks were special, but yesterday's - coming in at a crucial moment, I'd pick that. Only require one ball to get into form as long as you're keeping your eyes on the ball and playing it on its merit. The wicket was little two paced today compared to yesterday. Was playing on the merit. Outfield is so fast, just had to hit gaps. Been a rollercoster journey after my injury. Real test of you is during rehab sessions."

Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is

<p>India have a very settled top order in T20Is heading into the upcoming edition of the ICC T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia this year. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are all but confirmed to feature in the top four, there is intense competition when it comes to remaining batting positions with a number of star batters in the fray.</p>

<p>The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson and Venkatesh Iyer among others are strong contenders for spots in the middle-order. Iyer, who was in magnificent form in the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with three back-to-back unbeaten half-centuries has increased the selection headache for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>While the opening combination is all but certain to be that of skipper Rohit and vice-captain KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan has also presented a strong case with his ability to strike the ball from the word go and provide destructive starts at the top of the order. However, former Australia spinner Brad Hogg believes former skipper Virat Kohli should be opening the batting for the team if he part of the XI in T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-in-elite-list-after-dream-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457333">Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is</a></p>

<p><strong>Open with Kohli, Iyer at 3 and Pant at 4: Hogg</strong></p>

<p>Hogg said Kohli should open the batting with Rohit for India in T20Is while Iyer can bat at number three and Pant can be sent in at number four. The former Australia spinner suggested Rahul be slotted in the middle order while suggesting that Suryakumar, who has been in terrific form over the last few months, can also play at number 5. Hogg said India can then play two all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya at 6 and 7.</p>

<p>"For me, if you're going to have Kohli in the team, he should be opening the batting with Rohit. I'd like to have Shreyas Iyer coming in at No.3 and Pant at No.4. Have to try to get KL Rahul in there as well at some stage. If Pandya is fit, he and Jadeja can feature at No.6 and 7," Hogg said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-siraj-harshal-and-avesh-in-the-mix-indias-pace-attack-shaping-up-well-for-t20-world-cup-2022-457207">With Siraj, Harshal and Avesh in the mix, India's pace attack shaping up well for T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>The former Australia spinner also gave his take on what should India's bowling attack look like heading into the T20 World Cup Down Under this year.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"I'd have Siraj, Bumrah and Shami are the quicks. Chahal will be the lead spinner. Suryakumar Yadav coming in at No.5. If Pandya is not fit, then Venkatesh Iyer coming in at No.6," Hogg added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India have a very settled top order in T20Is heading into the upcoming edition of the ICC T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia this year. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are all but confirmed to feature in the top four, there is intense competition when it comes to remaining batting positions with a number of star batters in the fray.

India have a very settled top order in T20Is heading into the upcoming edition of the ICC T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia this year. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are all but confirmed to feature in the top four, there is intense competition when it comes to remaining batting positions with a number of star batters in the fray. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson and Venkatesh Iyer among others are strong contenders for spots in the middle-order. Iyer, who was in magnificent form in the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with three back-to-back unbeaten half-centuries has increased the selection headache for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup. While the opening combination is all but certain to be that of skipper Rohit and vice-captain KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan has also presented a strong case with his ability to strike the ball from the word go and provide destructive starts at the top of the order. However, former Australia spinner Brad Hogg believes former skipper Virat Kohli should be opening the batting for the team if he part of the XI in T20Is. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is Open with Kohli, Iyer at 3 and Pant at 4: Hogg Hogg said Kohli should open the batting with Rohit for India in T20Is while Iyer can bat at number three and Pant can be sent in at number four. The former Australia spinner suggested Rahul be slotted in the middle order while suggesting that Suryakumar, who has been in terrific form over the last few months, can also play at number 5. Hogg said India can then play two all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya at 6 and 7. "For me, if you're going to have Kohli in the team, he should be opening the batting with Rohit. I'd like to have Shreyas Iyer coming in at No.3 and Pant at No.4. Have to try to get KL Rahul in there as well at some stage. If Pandya is fit, he and Jadeja can feature at No.6 and 7," Hogg said. Also Read: With Siraj, Harshal and Avesh in the mix, India's pace attack shaping up well for T20 World Cup 2022 The former Australia spinner also gave his take on what should India's bowling attack look like heading into the T20 World Cup Down Under this year. "I'd have Siraj, Bumrah and Shami are the quicks. Chahal will be the lead spinner. Suryakumar Yadav coming in at No.5. If Pandya is not fit, then Venkatesh Iyer coming in at No.6," Hogg added.

Not Rahul or Kishan! Ex-Australia spinner names batter who should open with Rohit for India in T20Is

<p>India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors.</p>

<p>The CEO of the Punjab Cricket Association recently revealed that the first Test between the two Asian giants will be played amid empty stands, which will also be the captaincy debut of Rohit Sharma in the purest format of the game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-on-the-cusp-of-achieving-major-milestones-in-dharamshala-456712"><strong>Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala</strong></a></p>

<p>"The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will be played behind closed doors with no spectators allowed," Punjab Cricket Association CEO Deepak Sharma was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-bats-there-with-no-pujara-gavaskar-wants-star-indian-player-to-take-no-3-spot-in-tests-456735"><strong>Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests</strong></a></p>

<p>In 99 Tests, Kohli has&nbsp;7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 along with 27 centuries. He recently stepped down as the Test captain, leading India to 40 wins in 68 encounters. Under him, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021, dominated at home and played the inaugural WTC final.</p>

<p>The second and final Test will be held at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium, Bengaluru where 50% crowd is expected. Thus, Kohli will miss the chance of playing his 100th Test in his second home (i.e. Bengaluru) and amid crowd presence, unless he misses the Mohali encounter.</p>

<p><strong>India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Shami, Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar.</p>


India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors.

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors. The CEO of the Punjab Cricket Association recently revealed that the first Test between the two Asian giants will be played amid empty stands, which will also be the captaincy debut of Rohit Sharma in the purest format of the game. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala "The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will be played behind closed doors with no spectators allowed," Punjab Cricket Association CEO Deepak Sharma was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. ALSO READ | Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests In 99 Tests, Kohli has 7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 along with 27 centuries. He recently stepped down as the Test captain, leading India to 40 wins in 68 encounters. Under him, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021, dominated at home and played the inaugural WTC final. The second and final Test will be held at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium, Bengaluru where 50% crowd is expected. Thus, Kohli will miss the chance of playing his 100th Test in his second home (i.e. Bengaluru) and amid crowd presence, unless he misses the Mohali encounter. India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Shami, Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar.

India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli set to play historic 100th Test behind closed doors in Mohali

<p>Rohit Sharma has had a dream start to his captaincy era. While Hitman has led the Men in Blue in only a handful of ODIs and is yet to start his Test captaincy era, the 34-year-old is on a winning spree as the captain in the shortest format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After India defeated Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three T20Is, in Lucknow on Thursday (February 24), Rohit &amp; Co. attained their best-ever unbeaten streak in the format (10). Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I between both sides in Dharamshala, on Saturday (February 26), Rohit has a few major milestones awaiting him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If India manage to beat Sri Lanka in the 2nd T20I and take an unassailable lead in the series, it will not only be another series triumph for the Rohit-led side but Hitman will also have most&nbsp;wins in the format as an Indian captain. So far, Rohit has 15 wins from 16 encounters and is currently levelled with Eoin Morgan and Aaron Finch. Among Indian skippers, Rohit is already two ahead of Virat Kohli's tally (13) whereas MS Dhoni comes third (10 wins).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-weather-report-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-second-and-penultimate-tie-in-dharamshala-456685">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala?</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Rohit is just 19 away from joining an elite list -- comprising Morgan, Finch, Dhoni, Kohli and Babar Azam -- to have 1,000, or more, runs as captain in T20Is. He will also become the second-quickest batter to reach the milestone, after Babar Azam (26 innings). Rohit&nbsp;fell just short of one innings&nbsp;of equalling the feat with the Pakistani. Among Indian captains, he looks set to become the fastest to be the milestone (in 27 innings if he does so on Saturday) -- with Kohli getting there in 30 innings whereas Dhoni was the slowest to get to 1,000 runs as captain in the format (57 innings).</p>


Rohit Sharma has had a dream start to his captaincy era. While Hitman has led the Men in Blue in only a handful of ODIs and is yet to start his Test captaincy era, the 34-year-old is on a winning spree as the captain in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma has had a dream start to his captaincy era. While Hitman has led the Men in Blue in only a handful of ODIs and is yet to start his Test captaincy era, the 34-year-old is on a winning spree as the captain in the shortest format. After India defeated Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three T20Is, in Lucknow on Thursday (February 24), Rohit & Co. attained their best-ever unbeaten streak in the format (10). Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I between both sides in Dharamshala, on Saturday (February 26), Rohit has a few major milestones awaiting him. If India manage to beat Sri Lanka in the 2nd T20I and take an unassailable lead in the series, it will not only be another series triumph for the Rohit-led side but Hitman will also have most wins in the format as an Indian captain. So far, Rohit has 15 wins from 16 encounters and is currently levelled with Eoin Morgan and Aaron Finch. Among Indian skippers, Rohit is already two ahead of Virat Kohli's tally (13) whereas MS Dhoni comes third (10 wins). ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? In addition, Rohit is just 19 away from joining an elite list -- comprising Morgan, Finch, Dhoni, Kohli and Babar Azam -- to have 1,000, or more, runs as captain in T20Is. He will also become the second-quickest batter to reach the milestone, after Babar Azam (26 innings). Rohit fell just short of one innings of equalling the feat with the Pakistani. Among Indian captains, he looks set to become the fastest to be the milestone (in 27 innings if he does so on Saturday) -- with Kohli getting there in 30 innings whereas Dhoni was the slowest to get to 1,000 runs as captain in the format (57 innings).

Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala

<p>Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped.</p>

<p>Recently, the&nbsp;Chetan Sharma-led selection committee dropped as many as four senior players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. With no Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer are expected to take the No. 3 slot. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels former captain Virat Kohli should take over the important slot.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-on-the-cusp-of-achieving-major-milestones-in-dharamshala-456712"><strong>Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala</strong></a></p>

<p>“Ideally, Kohli should go at No.3. Because the best batsman you see...Ricky Ponting goes at 3. Joe Root bats at No.4, but I feel he will be batting at No.3 in West Indies. So the best batsman of the team is batting at No.3. He is capable of tackling the new ball in case there is an early wicket and he has also got the ability to up the tempo of the team has got off to a good start. So Kohli at three would be ideal," said Gavaskar on&nbsp;<em>India Today.</em></p>

<p>If not Kohli, the cricketer-turned-commentator recommended Vihari's name for No. 3. "Otherwise, you can look at Hanuma Vihari, who has done well in South Africa and showed a lot of courage,” added Gavaskar.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-weather-report-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-second-and-penultimate-tie-in-dharamshala-456685">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala?</a></strong></p>

<p>India are currently involved in the three T20Is versus the Islanders. It will be followed by two Tests versus the Asian neighbours, which will get underway on March 04 in Mohali. India's squad for the SL Tests is as follows:</p>

<p><strong>India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;</strong>Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar</p>


Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped.

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped. Recently, the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee dropped as many as four senior players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. With no Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer are expected to take the No. 3 slot. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels former captain Virat Kohli should take over the important slot. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala “Ideally, Kohli should go at No.3. Because the best batsman you see...Ricky Ponting goes at 3. Joe Root bats at No.4, but I feel he will be batting at No.3 in West Indies. So the best batsman of the team is batting at No.3. He is capable of tackling the new ball in case there is an early wicket and he has also got the ability to up the tempo of the team has got off to a good start. So Kohli at three would be ideal," said Gavaskar on India Today. If not Kohli, the cricketer-turned-commentator recommended Vihari's name for No. 3. "Otherwise, you can look at Hanuma Vihari, who has done well in South Africa and showed a lot of courage,” added Gavaskar. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? India are currently involved in the three T20Is versus the Islanders. It will be followed by two Tests versus the Asian neighbours, which will get underway on March 04 in Mohali. India's squad for the SL Tests is as follows: India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests

<p>Young Indian opener Ishan Kishan credited captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid along with senior batter Virat Kohli for backing him during his rough patch in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies at home. In the absence of KL Rahul, Kishan was handed the opportunity to open for India in all three T20Is, however, he failed to impress.</p>

<p>Kishan had managed to score only 71 runs in the three matches against West Indies but bounced back to form with a splendid knock of 89 runs in the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Kishan looked in phenomenal touch as he took the Sri Lankan bowlers to the cleaners during his brilliant knock.</p>

<p>Opening the batting with skipper Rohit, Ishan scored a stunning 89 runs off 56 balls laced with ten fours and three sixes. The duo posted a 111-run stand for the first wicket before Shreyas Iyer's quickfire 57 off 28 balls helped India post a huge total of 199 runs on the board.</p>

<p>With his brilliant knock, Kishan also went on to surpass Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul to create the record for the highest individual score by an Indian wicket-keeper in T20Is. The young left-hander spoke about his chats with the likes of Rohit and Dravid and revealed how they always stood by him during his rough patch against West Indies.</p>

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<p>"The seniors in the team always want a youngster to be in good head space. Be it Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid or Virat Kohli, they know how a youngster feels if he doesn't perform well. When I did not perform well against the West Indies, they were standing there with me, telling me 'we know about your talent, we know what you can do for the team. We trust in you. Don't ever think that we are doubting you'," Ishan said at the press conference after India's victory in the first T20I against Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>"When a youngster hears such words, he gets a lot of confidence. These small things while you're batting at the nets, they guide you. They have told me it's not always about hitting hard. We learn all these things whether we score runs or not," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-surpasses-ms-dhoni-rishabh-pant-to-create-new-record-for-team-india-in-t20is-456402">&nbsp;Ishan Kishan surpasses MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant to create new record for Team India in T20Is</a></p>

<p>Despite facing stiff competition for a spot in the squad, Kishan has managed to get a long rope owing to his talent and skills. He is likely to continue opening the batting for India in the remaining two T20Is against Sri Lanka. If he manages to continue his good form, Kishan can cement his spot in the T20 side in the run-up to the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.</p>


Young Indian opener Ishan Kishan credited captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid along with senior batter Virat Kohli for backing him during his rough patch in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies at home.

Young Indian opener Ishan Kishan credited captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid along with senior batter Virat Kohli for backing him during his rough patch in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies at home. In the absence of KL Rahul, Kishan was handed the opportunity to open for India in all three T20Is, however, he failed to impress. Kishan had managed to score only 71 runs in the three matches against West Indies but bounced back to form with a splendid knock of 89 runs in the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Kishan looked in phenomenal touch as he took the Sri Lankan bowlers to the cleaners during his brilliant knock. Opening the batting with skipper Rohit, Ishan scored a stunning 89 runs off 56 balls laced with ten fours and three sixes. The duo posted a 111-run stand for the first wicket before Shreyas Iyer's quickfire 57 off 28 balls helped India post a huge total of 199 runs on the board. With his brilliant knock, Kishan also went on to surpass Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul to create the record for the highest individual score by an Indian wicket-keeper in T20Is. The young left-hander spoke about his chats with the likes of Rohit and Dravid and revealed how they always stood by him during his rough patch against West Indies. Also Read: BCCI announces new format for IPL 2022: Two groups of five, each team to play 14 games in league stage "The seniors in the team always want a youngster to be in good head space. Be it Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid or Virat Kohli, they know how a youngster feels if he doesn't perform well. When I did not perform well against the West Indies, they were standing there with me, telling me 'we know about your talent, we know what you can do for the team. We trust in you. Don't ever think that we are doubting you'," Ishan said at the press conference after India's victory in the first T20I against Sri Lanka. "When a youngster hears such words, he gets a lot of confidence. These small things while you're batting at the nets, they guide you. They have told me it's not always about hitting hard. We learn all these things whether we score runs or not," he added. Also Read: Ishan Kishan surpasses MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant to create new record for Team India in T20Is Despite facing stiff competition for a spot in the squad, Kishan has managed to get a long rope owing to his talent and skills. He is likely to continue opening the batting for India in the remaining two T20Is against Sri Lanka. If he manages to continue his good form, Kishan can cement his spot in the T20 side in the run-up to the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form

<p>India thrashed Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24) to go 1-0 up in the series. With this win, India also attained their biggest winning streak in the shortest format (10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Post India's back-to-back defeats in the opening two games of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, the Men in Blue have been on a roll with their unbeaten streak now stretching to ten games. By virtue of this, India became the second-Test playing nation to attain 10 successive wins (fourth overall).&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Talking about the series opener, played in Lucknow, Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision backfired as Ishan Kishan-Rohit's century-stand took India off to a flier. While Rohit fell for 32-ball 44, he became the leading run-getter in the shortest format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Rohit's fall, Ishan's 56-ball 89 (at a strike-rate of 158.93) and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 not out (filled with 5 fours, 2 sixes) propelled the home side to a daunting 199-2. This effort came in the absence of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-rohit-sharma-moves-past-martin-guptill-virat-kohli-to-become-highest-run-getter-in-t20is-456120"><strong>Ind vs SL: Rohit Sharma moves past Martin Guptill, Virat Kohli to become highest run-getter in T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>In reply, Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka on the very first ball of the steep run-chase. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also removed Kamil Mishara for cheap whereas Dinesh Chandimal, Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne fell after getting a start each. Rohit once again rotated his bowlers with ease as Bhuvi, Venkestesh Iyer chipped in with two wickets each whereas Yuzi Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja maintained the pressure with one wicket apiece. Chahal also became the leading wicket-taker for the Men in Blue after dismissing Shanaka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually, SL were restricted for 137 for 6 in their full quota of overs (courtesy of Charith Asalanka's gritty 53*) as they were never in the run-chase and struggled to stitch partnerships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second and penultimate T20I will be held in Dharamshala on Saturday (February 26).</p>


India thrashed Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24) to go 1-0 up in the series. With this win, India also attained their biggest winning streak in the shortest format (10).

India thrashed Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24) to go 1-0 up in the series. With this win, India also attained their biggest winning streak in the shortest format (10). Post India's back-to-back defeats in the opening two games of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, the Men in Blue have been on a roll with their unbeaten streak now stretching to ten games. By virtue of this, India became the second-Test playing nation to attain 10 successive wins (fourth overall). ALSO READ | IPL 2022 to kick off from March 26, league stage to be played in Mumbai, Pune Talking about the series opener, played in Lucknow, Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision backfired as Ishan Kishan-Rohit's century-stand took India off to a flier. While Rohit fell for 32-ball 44, he became the leading run-getter in the shortest format. After Rohit's fall, Ishan's 56-ball 89 (at a strike-rate of 158.93) and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 not out (filled with 5 fours, 2 sixes) propelled the home side to a daunting 199-2. This effort came in the absence of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL: Rohit Sharma moves past Martin Guptill, Virat Kohli to become highest run-getter in T20Is In reply, Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka on the very first ball of the steep run-chase. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also removed Kamil Mishara for cheap whereas Dinesh Chandimal, Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne fell after getting a start each. Rohit once again rotated his bowlers with ease as Bhuvi, Venkestesh Iyer chipped in with two wickets each whereas Yuzi Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja maintained the pressure with one wicket apiece. Chahal also became the leading wicket-taker for the Men in Blue after dismissing Shanaka. Eventually, SL were restricted for 137 for 6 in their full quota of overs (courtesy of Charith Asalanka's gritty 53*) as they were never in the run-chase and struggled to stitch partnerships. The second and penultimate T20I will be held in Dharamshala on Saturday (February 26).

Rohit Sharma & Co. thrash Sri Lanka in 1st T20I as India attain longest unbeaten streak in shortest format

<p>Rohit Sharma, on Thursday (February 24), surpassed Martin Guptill and his predecessor Virat Kohli to become the highest run-getter in T20Is. At the start of the India-Sri Lanka three-match series opener, Hitman was 37 runs away from going past New Zealand opener Guptill's run-tally. Courtesy a 100-run stand with Ishan Kishan, after being asked to bat first in Lucknow, Rohit jumped from the third spot to top the list of most runs in the shortest format.</p>

<p>Rohit achieved the big milestone before the half-way stage with a single off spinner&nbsp;Jeffrey Vandersay in the ninth over. While he was a bit slow to start his innings, as compared to Ishan, Hitman came to his own and attained the huge feat in the T20I format. He eventually fell for a 32-ball 44.</p>

<p><strong>Most runs in T20Is</strong></p>

<p><strong>Rohit Sharma - 3307*</strong></p>

<p>Martin Guptill - 3299</p>

<p>Virat Kohli - 3263</p>

<p>Paul Stirling - 2,764</p>

<p>Aaron Finch - 2,686</p>

<p>Rohit has 4 hundreds in the format, at an average of&nbsp;33.07 and strike-rate of 139.94 along with 26 fifties.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theyre-taking-team-india-in-a-fabulous-direction-dinesh-karthik-lauds-rahul-dravid-rohit-sharma-456046">They're taking Team India in a fabulous direction: Dinesh Karthik lauds Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit is also playing his 123rd match in the shortest format at the international level. If he features in all three games versus the Islanders in the ongoing series, he will also become the most-capped player in the format; surpassing Shoaib Malik (124).</p>

<p>At the coin toss in the 1st T20I, in Lucknow, Rohit said, "We were looking to chase as well, not sure how the pitches in India plays. But we now know we need to bat well, the last time we played here, about 4 years back, the pitch played well. Nothing changes as far as the goals of the team are concerned, need to do the right things as a team, need to keep ticking all the right boxes. It's a challenge for the new gutsy - from the last game we played, we have 6 changes. Ruturaj was supposed to play, but he has a wrist injury and will not play today."</p>

<p>Rohit's captaincy era has started off with a bang so far in the white-ball format. He is yet to lose a single game and will hope to take India to their 10th consecutive win in T20Is -- which will be the Men in Blue's longest unbeaten streak -- during the series opener versus their Asian neighbours.</p>


Rohit Sharma, on Thursday (February 24), surpassed Martin Guptill and his predecessor Virat Kohli to become the highest run-getter in T20Is. At the start of the India-Sri Lanka three-match series opener, Hitman was 37 runs away from going past New Zealand opener Guptill's run-tally.

Rohit Sharma, on Thursday (February 24), surpassed Martin Guptill and his predecessor Virat Kohli to become the highest run-getter in T20Is. At the start of the India-Sri Lanka three-match series opener, Hitman was 37 runs away from going past New Zealand opener Guptill's run-tally. Courtesy a 100-run stand with Ishan Kishan, after being asked to bat first in Lucknow, Rohit jumped from the third spot to top the list of most runs in the shortest format. Rohit achieved the big milestone before the half-way stage with a single off spinner Jeffrey Vandersay in the ninth over. While he was a bit slow to start his innings, as compared to Ishan, Hitman came to his own and attained the huge feat in the T20I format. He eventually fell for a 32-ball 44. Most runs in T20Is Rohit Sharma - 3307* Martin Guptill - 3299 Virat Kohli - 3263 Paul Stirling - 2,764 Aaron Finch - 2,686 Rohit has 4 hundreds in the format, at an average of 33.07 and strike-rate of 139.94 along with 26 fifties. ALSO READ | They're taking Team India in a fabulous direction: Dinesh Karthik lauds Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma Rohit is also playing his 123rd match in the shortest format at the international level. If he features in all three games versus the Islanders in the ongoing series, he will also become the most-capped player in the format; surpassing Shoaib Malik (124). At the coin toss in the 1st T20I, in Lucknow, Rohit said, "We were looking to chase as well, not sure how the pitches in India plays. But we now know we need to bat well, the last time we played here, about 4 years back, the pitch played well. Nothing changes as far as the goals of the team are concerned, need to do the right things as a team, need to keep ticking all the right boxes. It's a challenge for the new gutsy - from the last game we played, we have 6 changes. Ruturaj was supposed to play, but he has a wrist injury and will not play today." Rohit's captaincy era has started off with a bang so far in the white-ball format. He is yet to lose a single game and will hope to take India to their 10th consecutive win in T20Is -- which will be the Men in Blue's longest unbeaten streak -- during the series opener versus their Asian neighbours.

Ind vs SL: Rohit Sharma moves past Martin Guptill, Virat Kohli to become highest run-getter in T20Is

<p>Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on the day the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition commenced in the UAE, i.e. on September 19. Back then, Kohli revealed that he won't be captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise after the end of the 14th edition.</p>

<p>In a video shared by the RCB franchise on Twitter, Kohli told, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me. I spoke to the management this evening. This was something that was on my mind... I needed the space to refresh, regroup and be absolutely clear in how to move forward."</p>

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<p>Recently, on "The RCB Podcast", Kohli explained his decision behind quitting as Bengaluru's captain and said, "I’m not someone who holds onto things more than I should. Even if I know I can do a lot more, if I’m not going to enjoy the process, I’m not going to do it. Because it’s very difficult for people to understand your decisions unless they are in your situation. From the outside, people have their own expectations ‘Oh! How did that happen? We are so shocked'."</p>

<p>He further pointed out, "There was actually nothing at all. I keep my life very simple and basic, when I wanted to make a decision, I made a decision and I announced it. I didn’t want to think about it and contemplate it for another year. That would’ve done nothing to me, nothing to the environment I’m part of. Quality of life is something very important to me. And the quality of cricket is something very important to me.</p>

<p>"Over a period of time, you want to do what you’re doing day-in-and-day-out and you want to do as much as you can, but at the end of the day, you have to realize that quality is far more important than quantity," added the 33-year-old Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-has-got-ice-running-through-his-veins-virat-kohli-is-a-superhuman-shane-watson-455678"><strong>MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson</strong></a></p>

<p>Under Kohli, the three-time runners-up RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the Bengaluru-based franchise&nbsp;from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where the&nbsp;David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat them by 8 runs.</p>

<p>At present, Kohli is enjoying a bio-bubble break and won't take part in the India-Sri Lanka T20Is, starting on February 24. He will return for the two Tests between both sides, which wil get underway on March 04.</p>


Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on the day the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition commenced in the UAE, i.e. on September 19. Back then, Kohli revealed that he won't be captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise after the end of the 14th edition.

Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on the day the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition commenced in the UAE, i.e. on September 19. Back then, Kohli revealed that he won't be captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise after the end of the 14th edition. In a video shared by the RCB franchise on Twitter, Kohli told, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me. I spoke to the management this evening. This was something that was on my mind... I needed the space to refresh, regroup and be absolutely clear in how to move forward." ALSO READ | Not Shikhar Dhawan! Mayank Agarwal likely to be named Punjab Kings' captain ahead of IPL 2022 - Report Recently, on "The RCB Podcast", Kohli explained his decision behind quitting as Bengaluru's captain and said, "I’m not someone who holds onto things more than I should. Even if I know I can do a lot more, if I’m not going to enjoy the process, I’m not going to do it. Because it’s very difficult for people to understand your decisions unless they are in your situation. From the outside, people have their own expectations ‘Oh! How did that happen? We are so shocked'." He further pointed out, "There was actually nothing at all. I keep my life very simple and basic, when I wanted to make a decision, I made a decision and I announced it. I didn’t want to think about it and contemplate it for another year. That would’ve done nothing to me, nothing to the environment I’m part of. Quality of life is something very important to me. And the quality of cricket is something very important to me. "Over a period of time, you want to do what you’re doing day-in-and-day-out and you want to do as much as you can, but at the end of the day, you have to realize that quality is far more important than quantity," added the 33-year-old Kohli. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson Under Kohli, the three-time runners-up RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the Bengaluru-based franchise from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where the David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat them by 8 runs. At present, Kohli is enjoying a bio-bubble break and won't take part in the India-Sri Lanka T20Is, starting on February 24. He will return for the two Tests between both sides, which wil get underway on March 04.

There’s nothing to be shocked about: Virat Kohli breaks silence on decision of quitting as RCB captain

<p>Rohit Sharma-led Team India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. After whitewashing West Indies in the white-ball series, India will hope to carry on with the momentum whereas captain Rohit will aim for another flawless series, both as captain and batsman.</p>

<p>Rohit is on the verge of attaining two big milestones during the SL series. If Hitman appears in all&nbsp;three games against the Islanders, he will overtake Shoaib Malik to become the most-capped player in the shortest format. At present, Rohit remains India's most-capped player in T20Is, followed by MS Dhoni (98) and his predecessor Virat Kohli (97). For the unversed, Kohli has been given a ten-day bio-bubble break and will return for the two Tests series versus Sri Lanka.</p>

<h3><strong>Most capped players in T20I cricket</strong></h3>

<p>Shoaib Malik (Pakistan) - 124<br />
<strong>Rohit Sharma (India) - 122*</strong><br />
Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan) - 119<br />
Eoin Morgan (England) - 115<br />
Mahmudullah (Bangladesh) - 113</p>

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<p>As a batter, Rohit is 37 runs away from becoming the highest run-getter in T20Is. At present, Martin Guptill leads the list followed by Kohli and Rohit.</p>

<p>Martin Guptill - 3,299<br />
Virat Kohli - 3,296<br />
<strong>Rohit Sharma - 3,263</strong><br />
Paul Stirling - 2,764<br />
Aaron Finch - 2,686</p>

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<p>Ahead of the T20Is, Rohit addressed the media on Wednesday (February 23) and dismissed concerns about his fitness. In recent times, he has been marred with injury concerns.&nbsp;"At the moment, I have no issues and looking forward to playing all the games," Rohit said. He added, "The workload always depends on what happens thereafter and you take day by day and understand what you do and if a break is needed, you take a break and someone else comes in.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led Team India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. After whitewashing West Indies in the white-ball series, India will hope to carry on with the momentum whereas captain Rohit will aim for another flawless series, both as captain and batsman.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. After whitewashing West Indies in the white-ball series, India will hope to carry on with the momentum whereas captain Rohit will aim for another flawless series, both as captain and batsman. Rohit is on the verge of attaining two big milestones during the SL series. If Hitman appears in all three games against the Islanders, he will overtake Shoaib Malik to become the most-capped player in the shortest format. At present, Rohit remains India's most-capped player in T20Is, followed by MS Dhoni (98) and his predecessor Virat Kohli (97). For the unversed, Kohli has been given a ten-day bio-bubble break and will return for the two Tests series versus Sri Lanka. Most capped players in T20I cricket Shoaib Malik (Pakistan) - 124 Rohit Sharma (India) - 122* Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan) - 119 Eoin Morgan (England) - 115 Mahmudullah (Bangladesh) - 113 ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report As a batter, Rohit is 37 runs away from becoming the highest run-getter in T20Is. At present, Martin Guptill leads the list followed by Kohli and Rohit. Martin Guptill - 3,299 Virat Kohli - 3,296 Rohit Sharma - 3,263 Paul Stirling - 2,764 Aaron Finch - 2,686 ALSO READ | 'He must learn to not.....': Virat Kohli's childhood coach shares advice for Rohit Sharma Ahead of the T20Is, Rohit addressed the media on Wednesday (February 23) and dismissed concerns about his fitness. In recent times, he has been marred with injury concerns. "At the moment, I have no issues and looking forward to playing all the games," Rohit said. He added, "The workload always depends on what happens thereafter and you take day by day and understand what you do and if a break is needed, you take a break and someone else comes in.

Rohit Sharma eyes two big milestones as Team India gear up for T20I series versus Sri Lanka

<p>Virat Kohli had become a household name after&nbsp;India embarked upon a new era following their triumph&nbsp;in the 2011 ODI World Cup. The Indian batter had jumped up the ranks and became the mainstay of Indian batting post the retirements of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, etc.</p>

<p>However, Kohli endured a horrible Test series in England; his first-ever outing in whites in the country. In India's five-match Test series versus hosts England, Kohli returned with 134 runs in 10 innings at a dismal average of 13.40. Following the series, a lot of questions were raised on the Indian superstar's credentials against incoming deliveries as he repeatedly fell prey to James Anderson &amp; Co.</p>

<p>After the series, Kohli met Master Blaster Tendulkar and reworked&nbsp;his batting style. Recently, Tendulkar revealed how he came to a struggling Kohli's rescue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-has-got-ice-running-through-his-veins-virat-kohli-is-a-superhuman-shane-watson-455678"><strong>MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson</strong></a></p>

<p>"Virat is a good friend. So pleased to see how his career has shaped in the last decade. When I started, I was part of the team at that time and I could see that fire and hunger in him. And from thereon, how he has worked hard on his game and how he has changed his lifestyle to achieve what he has been able to… has been remarkable," Tendulkar told Graham Bensinger.</p>

<p>He recalled, "Virat has been tremendous. He has done tremendously well and there is so much to happen in his career from here on. We all at some stage in our career, need heroes and the players who have that impact on their generation, motivate so many guys."</p>

<p>"In 2014, I remember meeting him and we discussed a couple of things where I felt he could get better. I have always believed in helping players and sharing my knowledge, whatever inputs I have… I've always been open to that. Virat contacted me and he wanted me to spend some time with him which I did. And like I said, that each generation looks up to their hero. That's how you set your dreams and set your targets. Then you start chasing them," added Tendulkar.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-your-property-heartwarming-tendulkar-reveals-why-he-returned-virat-kohlis-retirement-gift-454035"><strong>This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift</strong></a></p>

<p>Following his chat with Tendulkar, Kohli was on a run-scoring spree as he slammed three centuries in India's tour of Australia, in 2014-15. On his second Test series&nbsp;in England, Kohli silenced his critics in style by scoring 593 runs at 59.3 with two impressive hundreds and equal number of fifties.</p>

<p>At present, Kohli has been given a bio-bubble break and will skip the Sri Lanka T20Is. He will return for the home Test series versus the Islanders, starting on March 4.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli had become a household name after India embarked upon a new era following their triumph in the 2011 ODI World Cup. The Indian batter had jumped up the ranks and became the mainstay of Indian batting post the retirements of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, etc.

Virat Kohli had become a household name after India embarked upon a new era following their triumph in the 2011 ODI World Cup. The Indian batter had jumped up the ranks and became the mainstay of Indian batting post the retirements of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, etc. However, Kohli endured a horrible Test series in England; his first-ever outing in whites in the country. In India's five-match Test series versus hosts England, Kohli returned with 134 runs in 10 innings at a dismal average of 13.40. Following the series, a lot of questions were raised on the Indian superstar's credentials against incoming deliveries as he repeatedly fell prey to James Anderson & Co. After the series, Kohli met Master Blaster Tendulkar and reworked his batting style. Recently, Tendulkar revealed how he came to a struggling Kohli's rescue. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson "Virat is a good friend. So pleased to see how his career has shaped in the last decade. When I started, I was part of the team at that time and I could see that fire and hunger in him. And from thereon, how he has worked hard on his game and how he has changed his lifestyle to achieve what he has been able to… has been remarkable," Tendulkar told Graham Bensinger. He recalled, "Virat has been tremendous. He has done tremendously well and there is so much to happen in his career from here on. We all at some stage in our career, need heroes and the players who have that impact on their generation, motivate so many guys." "In 2014, I remember meeting him and we discussed a couple of things where I felt he could get better. I have always believed in helping players and sharing my knowledge, whatever inputs I have… I've always been open to that. Virat contacted me and he wanted me to spend some time with him which I did. And like I said, that each generation looks up to their hero. That's how you set your dreams and set your targets. Then you start chasing them," added Tendulkar. ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift Following his chat with Tendulkar, Kohli was on a run-scoring spree as he slammed three centuries in India's tour of Australia, in 2014-15. On his second Test series in England, Kohli silenced his critics in style by scoring 593 runs at 59.3 with two impressive hundreds and equal number of fifties. At present, Kohli has been given a bio-bubble break and will skip the Sri Lanka T20Is. He will return for the home Test series versus the Islanders, starting on March 4.

'He wanted me to...:' Sachin Tendulkar reveals how he came to a struggling Virat Kohli's aid in 2014

<p>Captain Rohit Sharma impressed one and all in India's white-ball series, at home, versus West Indies. Being appointed as the full-time limited-overs captain, Rohit marshalled his troops with ease and rotated his bowlers effortlessly during some crunch encounters versus the Windies.</p>

<p>Post&nbsp;WI's tour of India, the national selectors appointed Rohit as Test captain as well; promoting him as an all-format skipper. Thus, the Rohit Sharma-era has&nbsp;commenced in Indian cricket with his appointment as the all-format captain. Ahead of the three T20Is between the Men in Blue and Sri Lanka, starting on Thursday (February 24), Virat Kohli's childhood coach has shared some words of advice for captain Rohit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-huge-honour-rohit-sharma-elated-after-being-appointed-indias-captain-across-all-formats-455617">It's a huge honour: Rohit Sharma elated after being appointed India's captain across all formats</a></strong></p>

<p>"Rohit Sharma is considered a cool captain, but we have seen him get angry on the field lately (during the WI series). He must learn to not express his anger at his teammates in public. If someone makes a mistake, then he needs to make them understand in a calmer way," Kohli's childhood coach said.</p>

<p>Further, Rajkumar stated&nbsp;that he was pleased to see former skipper Kohli and his successor Rohit work&nbsp;together on the field. "It's good to see Rohit and Virat working together. We have seen this in the past as well when Kohli was the captain. He used to field in the deep during the death overs and MS Dhoni was handling things in the middle," he added. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-names-three-possible-contenders-for-team-india-captaincy-post-455629">Rohit Sharma names three possible contenders for Team India captaincy post</a></strong></p>

<p>While Rohit did a wonderful job as captain during the white-ball series versus West Indies, Hitman will like to control his anger&nbsp;when the going gets tough. Usually considered as a calm and composed captain, Hitman did show some&nbsp;emotions on the field during the three ODIs and T20Is against the Men in Maroon.&nbsp;</p>


Captain Rohit Sharma impressed one and all in India's white-ball series, at home, versus West Indies. Being appointed as the full-time limited-overs captain, Rohit marshalled his troops with ease and rotated his bowlers effortlessly during some crunch encounters versus the Windies.

Captain Rohit Sharma impressed one and all in India's white-ball series, at home, versus West Indies. Being appointed as the full-time limited-overs captain, Rohit marshalled his troops with ease and rotated his bowlers effortlessly during some crunch encounters versus the Windies. Post WI's tour of India, the national selectors appointed Rohit as Test captain as well; promoting him as an all-format skipper. Thus, the Rohit Sharma-era has commenced in Indian cricket with his appointment as the all-format captain. Ahead of the three T20Is between the Men in Blue and Sri Lanka, starting on Thursday (February 24), Virat Kohli's childhood coach has shared some words of advice for captain Rohit. ALSO READ | It's a huge honour: Rohit Sharma elated after being appointed India's captain across all formats "Rohit Sharma is considered a cool captain, but we have seen him get angry on the field lately (during the WI series). He must learn to not express his anger at his teammates in public. If someone makes a mistake, then he needs to make them understand in a calmer way," Kohli's childhood coach said. Further, Rajkumar stated that he was pleased to see former skipper Kohli and his successor Rohit work together on the field. "It's good to see Rohit and Virat working together. We have seen this in the past as well when Kohli was the captain. He used to field in the deep during the death overs and MS Dhoni was handling things in the middle," he added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma names three possible contenders for Team India captaincy post While Rohit did a wonderful job as captain during the white-ball series versus West Indies, Hitman will like to control his anger when the going gets tough. Usually considered as a calm and composed captain, Hitman did show some emotions on the field during the three ODIs and T20Is against the Men in Maroon.

'He must learn to not.....': Virat Kohli's childhood coach shares advice for Rohit Sharma

<p>Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson recently gave his take on the captaincy styles of the legendary MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and current Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Watson believes all three captains are unique in their own way and have different leadership styles.</p>

<p>While Watson called Kohli a 'superhuman', the former all-rounder said MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins and is incredibly calm as a captain. He also hailed Rohit as a natural leader and said he has grown in stature having captained a team like Mumbai Indians for so many years in the Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<p>Waston, who played under Kohli for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, praised the former India skipper for pushing the standards high for himself and his team. Watson said Kohli is superhuman to him and knows how to push players around him as well.</p>

<p>"Virat as a leader, has done incredible things, the way he has been able to push players, he has got such high expectations of himself and he brings that to every game he plays. For me, I believe Virat is superhuman, he knows how to push players around him. Virat is an incredibly good guy, he is a well-balanced character off the field, the knowledge he has is fascinating. It was a great experience for me to work with Virat at RCB," Watson said on the 'ICC Review'.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csks-most-expensive-signing-at-mega-auction-deepak-chahar-can-be-ruled-out-of-ipl-2022-report-455641">CSK's most expensive signing at mega auction Deepak Chahar can be ruled out of IPL 2022 - Report</a></p>

<p>Even during the final lap of his career, Watson enjoyed tremendous success while playing under MS Dhoni for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. Watson played for CSK for three seasons and played an instrumental role in taking them to two finals in 2018 and 2019. While Dhoni &amp; Co. won the title in 2018, they missed out on the trophy closely in 2019.</p>

<p>Giving insights about Dhoni's leadership qualities, Watson said Dhoni's ability to handle pressure situations and get the best out of his players has always fascinated him.</p>

<p>"MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, his ability to take the pressure out of a team environment, he trusts his players, he makes sure everyone has faith in their abilities. He knows what works for himself and the people around him. He trusts his instincts on the field, he trusts that players will do their research and do what is needed on the field," said the former Australian all-rounder.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-hasnt-apologised-or-got-in-touch-with-me-wriddhiman-saha-on-journalist-who-threatened-him-455602">He hasn't apologised or got in touch with me: Wriddhiman Saha on journalist who threatened him</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;Talking about Rohit, who was appointed as India's captain across all formats last week, Watson said he is a natural leader and has experience of leading a top side like Mumbai Indians. Rohit is the most successful captain in IPL history with five titles to his name.</p>

<p>"He is such a natural and easy leader. I watched him closely leading the Mumbai Indians and nothing seemed to faze him. He goes about his work incredibly well, he has had experience leading teams as well, captaining a franchise like Mumbai in high-pressure situations. There is always a high expectation from Mumbai in the IPL," said Watson.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson recently gave his take on the captaincy styles of the legendary MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and current Indian captain Rohit Sharma.

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson recently gave his take on the captaincy styles of the legendary MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and current Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Watson believes all three captains are unique in their own way and have different leadership styles. While Watson called Kohli a 'superhuman', the former all-rounder said MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins and is incredibly calm as a captain. He also hailed Rohit as a natural leader and said he has grown in stature having captained a team like Mumbai Indians for so many years in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Waston, who played under Kohli for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, praised the former India skipper for pushing the standards high for himself and his team. Watson said Kohli is superhuman to him and knows how to push players around him as well. "Virat as a leader, has done incredible things, the way he has been able to push players, he has got such high expectations of himself and he brings that to every game he plays. For me, I believe Virat is superhuman, he knows how to push players around him. Virat is an incredibly good guy, he is a well-balanced character off the field, the knowledge he has is fascinating. It was a great experience for me to work with Virat at RCB," Watson said on the 'ICC Review'. Also Read: CSK's most expensive signing at mega auction Deepak Chahar can be ruled out of IPL 2022 - Report Even during the final lap of his career, Watson enjoyed tremendous success while playing under MS Dhoni for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. Watson played for CSK for three seasons and played an instrumental role in taking them to two finals in 2018 and 2019. While Dhoni & Co. won the title in 2018, they missed out on the trophy closely in 2019. Giving insights about Dhoni's leadership qualities, Watson said Dhoni's ability to handle pressure situations and get the best out of his players has always fascinated him. "MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, his ability to take the pressure out of a team environment, he trusts his players, he makes sure everyone has faith in their abilities. He knows what works for himself and the people around him. He trusts his instincts on the field, he trusts that players will do their research and do what is needed on the field," said the former Australian all-rounder. Also Read: He hasn't apologised or got in touch with me: Wriddhiman Saha on journalist who threatened him Talking about Rohit, who was appointed as India's captain across all formats last week, Watson said he is a natural leader and has experience of leading a top side like Mumbai Indians. Rohit is the most successful captain in IPL history with five titles to his name. "He is such a natural and easy leader. I watched him closely leading the Mumbai Indians and nothing seemed to faze him. He goes about his work incredibly well, he has had experience leading teams as well, captaining a franchise like Mumbai in high-pressure situations. There is always a high expectation from Mumbai in the IPL," said Watson.

MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson

<p>Virat Kohli on Wednesday (February 23) shared a heartfelt note for former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh to thank him for his great gesture. Yuvraj had sent Kohli a special shoe and a handwritten letter to laud him for his exceptional captaincy tenure as the skipper of the Indian team across all formats of the game. After giving up T20I and ODI captaincy last year, Kohli had stepped down as India's Test captain in January this year.</p>

<p>Kohli thanked Yuvraj for his wonderful gesture and shared a heartfelt post for his former India teammate with a picture of the shoe sent by him. Kohli and Yuvraj share a great bond with each other and were part of some of the most memorable victories for the Indian cricket team together. While Yuvraj retired from all forms of cricket in 2019, Kohli continues to be an integral member of the Indian team across all formats.</p>

<p>Thanking Yuvraj for his gesture, Kohli called Yuvraj's life and his battle from cancer an inspiration for all. The batting maestro also recalled his early days in international cricket and thanked Yuvraj for his support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Yuvi Pa thank you for this wonderful gesture. Coming from someone who's seen my career unfold from day 1, it means a lot. Your life and your comeback from cancer was, is and will always be an inspiration for people in all walks of life not just cricket," Kohli wrote for Yuvraj.</p>

<p>"I've known you for who you are and you've always been very generous and caring for people around you. Now we're both parents and know what a blessing that is. I wish you all the happiness, beautiful memories and blessings in this new journey. God bless Yuvi Pa," he added.</p>

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<p>Yuvraj was already a big name in world cricket when Kohli had made his debut for India in 2008. The duo went on to be part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni. Yuvraj was the hero of India's memorable World Cup triumph with his brilliant all-round performances.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-pens-heartfelt-note-for-virat-kohli-from-that-young-boy-in-the-nets-youre-now-a-legend-455267">Yuvraj Singh pens heartfelt note for Virat Kohli: From that young boy in the nets you’re now a legend</a></p>

<p>The all-rounder was awarded the Man of the Tournament at the 2011 ODI World Cup for scoring 362 runs and picking up 15 wickets. Yuvraj has seen Kohli go strength to strength in his career and become one of the greats of the game over the years.</p>

<p>Kohli is regarded as one of the best batters of all time for his amazing consistency and brilliant skills. Kohli is currently the only batter in the world tp average over 50 in all three formats of the game.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli on Wednesday (February 23) shared a heartfelt note for former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh to thank him for his great gesture. Yuvraj had sent Kohli a special shoe and a handwritten letter to laud him for his exceptional captaincy tenure as the skipper of the Indian team across all formats of the game.

Virat Kohli on Wednesday (February 23) shared a heartfelt note for former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh to thank him for his great gesture. Yuvraj had sent Kohli a special shoe and a handwritten letter to laud him for his exceptional captaincy tenure as the skipper of the Indian team across all formats of the game. After giving up T20I and ODI captaincy last year, Kohli had stepped down as India's Test captain in January this year. Kohli thanked Yuvraj for his wonderful gesture and shared a heartfelt post for his former India teammate with a picture of the shoe sent by him. Kohli and Yuvraj share a great bond with each other and were part of some of the most memorable victories for the Indian cricket team together. While Yuvraj retired from all forms of cricket in 2019, Kohli continues to be an integral member of the Indian team across all formats. Thanking Yuvraj for his gesture, Kohli called Yuvraj's life and his battle from cancer an inspiration for all. The batting maestro also recalled his early days in international cricket and thanked Yuvraj for his support. "Yuvi Pa thank you for this wonderful gesture. Coming from someone who's seen my career unfold from day 1, it means a lot. Your life and your comeback from cancer was, is and will always be an inspiration for people in all walks of life not just cricket," Kohli wrote for Yuvraj. "I've known you for who you are and you've always been very generous and caring for people around you. Now we're both parents and know what a blessing that is. I wish you all the happiness, beautiful memories and blessings in this new journey. God bless Yuvi Pa," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) × Yuvraj was already a big name in world cricket when Kohli had made his debut for India in 2008. The duo went on to be part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni. Yuvraj was the hero of India's memorable World Cup triumph with his brilliant all-round performances. Also Read: Yuvraj Singh pens heartfelt note for Virat Kohli: From that young boy in the nets you’re now a legend The all-rounder was awarded the Man of the Tournament at the 2011 ODI World Cup for scoring 362 runs and picking up 15 wickets. Yuvraj has seen Kohli go strength to strength in his career and become one of the greats of the game over the years. Kohli is regarded as one of the best batters of all time for his amazing consistency and brilliant skills. Kohli is currently the only batter in the world tp average over 50 in all three formats of the game.

'Your life is an inspiration': Virat Kohli responds with heartfelt note after Yuvraj Singh's gesture for him

<p>Wriddhiman Saha has warned the 'respected' journalist, who threatened him for not giving an interview, and stated that he will not take such a behaviour if repeated. He, however, has&nbsp;chosen to not reveal his/her identity this time around.</p>

<p>On February 19, Saha wasn't named in India's squad for the two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. Following his omission, Saha revealed that a well-known journalist is threatening him after the veteran cricketer didn't entertain his/her request for an interview. Thus, the 37-year-old didn't hold back and shared a screenshot of his conversation with the journalist.</p>

<p>Back then, Saha took to his official Twitter handle where he shared a picture of the chat and captioned the post, "After all of my contributions to Indian cricket..this is what I face from a so-called “Respected” journalist! This is where the journalism has gone."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whoever-you-are-youre-talking-like-a-kidnapper-aakash-chopra-to-journalist-who-threatened-wriddhiman-saha-455410"><strong>Whoever you are, you're talking like a kidnapper: Aakash Chopra to journalist who threatened Wriddhiman Saha</strong></a></p>

<p>While many former cricketers -- such as Ravi Shastri, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Aakash Chopra, etc. -- urged Saha to reveal the identity of the journalist, the&nbsp;veteran keeper-batter Saha has chosen to not share any further detail but left a stern warning for him/her. He took to his official Twitter handle, on Tuesday evening (February 22), and wrote, "I was hurt and offended. I thought not to tolerate such kind of behaviour and didn’t want anyone to go through these kind of bullying. I decided I will go out and expose the chat in public eye, but not his/her name. My nature isn't such that I will harm anyone to the extent of ending someone’s career. So on grounds of humanity looking at his/her family, I am not exposing the name for the time being. But if any such repetition happens, I will not hold back."</p>

<p>"I thank each and everyone who has shown support and extended their willingness to help. My gratitude," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1/3- I was hurt and offended. I thought not to tolerate such kind of behaviour and didn’t want anyone to go through these kind of bullying. I decided I will go out and expose the chat in public eye, but not his/her name</p>
— Wriddhiman Saha (@Wriddhipops) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wriddhipops/status/1496101544311537665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-will-ask-wriddhiman-saha-about-his-tweet-and-if-he-was-bullied-says-treasurer-arun-dhumal-455301"><strong>BCCI will ask Wriddhiman Saha about his tweet and if he was bullied, says Treasurer Arun Dhumal</strong></a></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Saha reveals the name of the journalist to the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI. Talking about his future in whites, his return looks difficult given he isn't playing the Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition -- due to personal reasons -- and has been told by head coach Rahul Dravid that the team management is looking to groom a young&nbsp;KS Bharat for the second keeper-batter slot (with Rishabh Pant being the first-choice).</p>


Wriddhiman Saha has warned the 'respected' journalist, who threatened him for not giving an interview, and stated that he will not take such a behaviour if repeated.

Wriddhiman Saha has warned the 'respected' journalist, who threatened him for not giving an interview, and stated that he will not take such a behaviour if repeated. He, however, has chosen to not reveal his/her identity this time around. On February 19, Saha wasn't named in India's squad for the two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. Following his omission, Saha revealed that a well-known journalist is threatening him after the veteran cricketer didn't entertain his/her request for an interview. Thus, the 37-year-old didn't hold back and shared a screenshot of his conversation with the journalist. Back then, Saha took to his official Twitter handle where he shared a picture of the chat and captioned the post, "After all of my contributions to Indian cricket..this is what I face from a so-called “Respected” journalist! This is where the journalism has gone." ALSO READ | Whoever you are, you're talking like a kidnapper: Aakash Chopra to journalist who threatened Wriddhiman Saha While many former cricketers -- such as Ravi Shastri, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Aakash Chopra, etc. -- urged Saha to reveal the identity of the journalist, the veteran keeper-batter Saha has chosen to not share any further detail but left a stern warning for him/her. He took to his official Twitter handle, on Tuesday evening (February 22), and wrote, "I was hurt and offended. I thought not to tolerate such kind of behaviour and didn’t want anyone to go through these kind of bullying. I decided I will go out and expose the chat in public eye, but not his/her name. My nature isn't such that I will harm anyone to the extent of ending someone’s career. So on grounds of humanity looking at his/her family, I am not exposing the name for the time being. But if any such repetition happens, I will not hold back." "I thank each and everyone who has shown support and extended their willingness to help. My gratitude," he added. 1/3- I was hurt and offended. I thought not to tolerate such kind of behaviour and didn’t want anyone to go through these kind of bullying. I decided I will go out and expose the chat in public eye, but not his/her name — Wriddhiman Saha (@Wriddhipops) February 22, 2022 × ALSO READ | BCCI will ask Wriddhiman Saha about his tweet and if he was bullied, says Treasurer Arun Dhumal It will be interesting to see if Saha reveals the name of the journalist to the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI. Talking about his future in whites, his return looks difficult given he isn't playing the Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition -- due to personal reasons -- and has been told by head coach Rahul Dravid that the team management is looking to groom a young KS Bharat for the second keeper-batter slot (with Rishabh Pant being the first-choice).

Not naming for family's sake, but will not hold back if it's repeated: Wriddhiman Saha warns journalist

<p>On Saturday (February 19), the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee appointed Rohit Sharma as the full-time captain of Team India after he succeeded Virat Kohli as the Test skipper. Rohit, who had already taken over as the white-ball captain, has now got the top post in the red-ball format as well after Kohli resigned as the Test skipper post the South Africa series.</p>

<p>Following Rohit taking over as the full-time captain, former Indian keeper-batter Saba Karim feels the BCCI was forced to change their split-captaincy plans with Kohli's sudden resignation as the Test skipper. The former cricketer feels the 33-year-old Kohli was not expected to leave Test captaincy all of a sudden, which he did via a Twitter post on January 15.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958"><strong>India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</strong></a></p>

<p>"BCCI was forced to change split captaincy plans after Virat Kohli's sudden resignation from Test captaincy. Kohli was not expected to leave the red-ball captaincy and because of his resignation, India had to make Rohit Sharma the skipper across formats," Karim said. Kohli stepped down from Test captainship after becoming India's most successful captain in the purest&nbsp;format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-former-player-opines-on-rishabh-pant-virat-kohlis-form-names-india-womens-x-factor-for-odi-world-cup-454091"><strong>EXCLUSIVE:&nbsp;Former player opines on Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli's form, names India women's X-factor for ODI World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about Kohli's credentials as a Test captain, he led India to away series wins in Australia, West Indies, Sri Lanka and helped the team gain an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in an incomplete five-match series, held in 2021. Under him, India were the No. 1 ranked side for quite sometime and also played the final of the inaugural WTC final. In addition, the Test side dominated oppositions in home conditions.</p>

<p>Rohit, thus, has huge shoes to fill in as he is gearing up to take over as the red-ball captain as well.</p>


On Saturday (February 19), the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee appointed Rohit Sharma as the full-time captain of Team India after he succeeded Virat Kohli as the Test skipper.

On Saturday (February 19), the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee appointed Rohit Sharma as the full-time captain of Team India after he succeeded Virat Kohli as the Test skipper. Rohit, who had already taken over as the white-ball captain, has now got the top post in the red-ball format as well after Kohli resigned as the Test skipper post the South Africa series. Following Rohit taking over as the full-time captain, former Indian keeper-batter Saba Karim feels the BCCI was forced to change their split-captaincy plans with Kohli's sudden resignation as the Test skipper. The former cricketer feels the 33-year-old Kohli was not expected to leave Test captaincy all of a sudden, which he did via a Twitter post on January 15. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch "BCCI was forced to change split captaincy plans after Virat Kohli's sudden resignation from Test captaincy. Kohli was not expected to leave the red-ball captaincy and because of his resignation, India had to make Rohit Sharma the skipper across formats," Karim said. Kohli stepped down from Test captainship after becoming India's most successful captain in the purest format. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Former player opines on Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli's form, names India women's X-factor for ODI World Cup Talking about Kohli's credentials as a Test captain, he led India to away series wins in Australia, West Indies, Sri Lanka and helped the team gain an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in an incomplete five-match series, held in 2021. Under him, India were the No. 1 ranked side for quite sometime and also played the final of the inaugural WTC final. In addition, the Test side dominated oppositions in home conditions. Rohit, thus, has huge shoes to fill in as he is gearing up to take over as the red-ball captain as well.

India had to make Rohit the skipper across formats after Kohli's resignation as Test captain: Saba Karim

<p>Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh on Tuesday penned an emotional letter to pay a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli. One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli has already established his credentials as one of the legends of the game and has come a long way in his career since making his international debut for India in 2008.</p>

<p>Yuvraj was part of the Indian dressing room and was already a big name in world cricket when Kohli played his first game for the Men in Blue. The duo has since shared a great bond with each other and has been part of several memorable wins for India on the field. Both Kohli and Yuvraj were also part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>Having played together for the Indian team and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Yuvraj has seen Kohli grow from a young prodigy to a legend of the game. Dedicating a special golden boot to Kohli, Yuvraj lauded him for his achievements as the captain of the Indian team. Yuvraj also called Kohli's passion and dedication for cricket an inspiration for youngsters around the globe.</p>

<p>"To the little boy from Delhi @imvkohli. I want to dedicate this special shoe to you, celebrating your career n time as captain which has brought smiles to millions of fans all over the world. I hope you stay the way YOU are, play the way YOU do and keep making the country proud," Yuvraj wrote in an Instagram post for Kohli.</p>

<p>"Virat, I’ve seen you grow as a cricketer and as a person. From that young boy in the nets who would walk shoulder-to-shoulder with the legends of Indian cricket, you’re now a legend yourself leading the way for a new generation. Your discipline and passion on the field and dedication to the sport inspire every young kid in this country to pick up the bat and dream of putting on the blue jersey one day.</p>

<p>"You have elevated your level of cricket every single year and achieved so much already in this wonderful game that it makes me even more excited to watch you embark on this new chapter in your career. You have been a legendary captain and a fantastic leader. I’m expecting many more of your famous run chases," he added.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CaRIiaTvIA7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Yuvraj Singh (@yuvisofficial)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/break-from-bio-bubble-a-much-needed-one-for-under-fire-virat-kohli-454846">Break from bio-bubble a much-needed one for under-fire Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>Yuvraj also recalled the time he spent with Kohli while playing for the Indian team. He insisted the batting maestro might be 'King Kohli' for the rest of the world but for him, the former Indian skipper will always remain 'Cheeku'. Kohli is fondly called Cheeku - his nickname, by a lot of his current and former teammates.</p>

<p>"I’m glad to have shared a bond with you as a teammate and more so a friend. Scoring runs, pulling people's legs, cheating meals, jamming to Punjabi songs and winning cups, we’ve done it all together. Mere liye tu hamesha Cheeku rahega aur duniya ke liye King Kohli," wrote Yuvraj.</p>

<p>"Always keep the fire inside you burning. You’re a superstar. Here’s a special golden boot for you. Keep making the country proud! @virat.kohli," he added.</p>

<p>Kohli, who was last seen in action for India during the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies, has been given a much-needed 10-day break by the BCCI and will miss the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. Kohli will return when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series next month.</p>


Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh on Tuesday penned an emotional letter to pay a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli. One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli has already established his credentials as one of the legends of the game and has come a long way in his career since making his international debut for India in 2008.

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh on Tuesday penned an emotional letter to pay a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli. One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli has already established his credentials as one of the legends of the game and has come a long way in his career since making his international debut for India in 2008. Yuvraj was part of the Indian dressing room and was already a big name in world cricket when Kohli played his first game for the Men in Blue. The duo has since shared a great bond with each other and has been part of several memorable wins for India on the field. Both Kohli and Yuvraj were also part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni. Having played together for the Indian team and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Yuvraj has seen Kohli grow from a young prodigy to a legend of the game. Dedicating a special golden boot to Kohli, Yuvraj lauded him for his achievements as the captain of the Indian team. Yuvraj also called Kohli's passion and dedication for cricket an inspiration for youngsters around the globe. "To the little boy from Delhi @imvkohli. I want to dedicate this special shoe to you, celebrating your career n time as captain which has brought smiles to millions of fans all over the world. I hope you stay the way YOU are, play the way YOU do and keep making the country proud," Yuvraj wrote in an Instagram post for Kohli. "Virat, I’ve seen you grow as a cricketer and as a person. From that young boy in the nets who would walk shoulder-to-shoulder with the legends of Indian cricket, you’re now a legend yourself leading the way for a new generation. Your discipline and passion on the field and dedication to the sport inspire every young kid in this country to pick up the bat and dream of putting on the blue jersey one day. "You have elevated your level of cricket every single year and achieved so much already in this wonderful game that it makes me even more excited to watch you embark on this new chapter in your career. You have been a legendary captain and a fantastic leader. I’m expecting many more of your famous run chases," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yuvraj Singh (@yuvisofficial) × Also Read: Break from bio-bubble a much-needed one for under-fire Virat Kohli Yuvraj also recalled the time he spent with Kohli while playing for the Indian team. He insisted the batting maestro might be 'King Kohli' for the rest of the world but for him, the former Indian skipper will always remain 'Cheeku'. Kohli is fondly called Cheeku - his nickname, by a lot of his current and former teammates. "I’m glad to have shared a bond with you as a teammate and more so a friend. Scoring runs, pulling people's legs, cheating meals, jamming to Punjabi songs and winning cups, we’ve done it all together. Mere liye tu hamesha Cheeku rahega aur duniya ke liye King Kohli," wrote Yuvraj. "Always keep the fire inside you burning. You’re a superstar. Here’s a special golden boot for you. Keep making the country proud! @virat.kohli," he added. Kohli, who was last seen in action for India during the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies, has been given a much-needed 10-day break by the BCCI and will miss the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. Kohli will return when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series next month.

Yuvraj Singh pens heartfelt note for Virat Kohli: From that young boy in the nets you’re now a legend

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