James Anderson has no expectation of easing back down, Ahead of the first Test against India at Trent Bridge, James Anderson reviewed how he was practically very nearly saying goodbye to the game.&nbsp;

Flashes will undoubtedly fly when quite possibly the most productive seamer&nbsp;of this era faced perhaps the best batsman to play the game. James Anderson had the advantage in 2014. Virat Kohli was left puzzled against such a show of swing bowling and got back with an average of 13.40 across 10 innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Cricket: England, India lock horns in first Test of the new World Test Championship cycle">Cricket: England, India lock horns in first Test of the new World Test Championship cycle</a>

The Indian captain returned subsequent to getting his work done and managed everything, beginning with a ton at Edgbaston. The on-field enemies are set to meet again.

James Anderson focused on the significance of the wicket of Virat Kohli, given the effect the Team India skipper has on the team as a batsman and a skipper.&nbsp;

'You always want to challenge yourself against the best in the world and he's certainly that. We know how big a player he is for them both as a batsman and as captain, he has a huge influence on that team," he said.

"So we know he's a big wicket and to be honest I don't care if I get him out. As long as somebody gets him out that's the main thing. He's an important wicket," he added.

The 39-year-old could just deliver four overs in the aggregate of the notable 2019 Ashes series. He was injured and had to undergo rehabilitation. It required an intercession from his wife to keep him in the game, and James Anderson has been productive since the time of his return.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England?">Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England?</a>

"A big reason I am still playing cricket is my wife. She's been really supportive. When I pulled my calf in the first Ashes Test, it was the second or third time I had pulled my calf and I was really considering whether I wanted to go through the rehab again," he said.&nbsp;

"She basically took us away on holiday and told me to stop being silly. She told me to carry on. She wants me to keep playing; she encourages me to keep playing. She's quite happy for me not to be around the house I think," he concluded. 
&nbsp;

James Anderson has no expectation of easing back down, Ahead of the first Test against India at Trent Bridge, James Anderson reviewed how he was practically very nearly saying goodbye to the game.

James Anderson has no expectation of easing back down, Ahead of the first Test against India at Trent Bridge, James Anderson reviewed how he was practically very nearly saying goodbye to the game. Flashes will undoubtedly fly when quite possibly the most productive seamer of this era faced perhaps the best batsman to play the game. James Anderson had the advantage in 2014. Virat Kohli was left puzzled against such a show of swing bowling and got back with an average of 13.40 across 10 innings. ALSO READ: Cricket: England, India lock horns in first Test of the new World Test Championship cycle The Indian captain returned subsequent to getting his work done and managed everything, beginning with a ton at Edgbaston. The on-field enemies are set to meet again. James Anderson focused on the significance of the wicket of Virat Kohli, given the effect the Team India skipper has on the team as a batsman and a skipper. 'You always want to challenge yourself against the best in the world and he's certainly that. We know how big a player he is for them both as a batsman and as captain, he has a huge influence on that team," he said. "So we know he's a big wicket and to be honest I don't care if I get him out. As long as somebody gets him out that's the main thing. He's an important wicket," he added. The 39-year-old could just deliver four overs in the aggregate of the notable 2019 Ashes series. He was injured and had to undergo rehabilitation. It required an intercession from his wife to keep him in the game, and James Anderson has been productive since the time of his return. ALSO READ: Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England? "A big reason I am still playing cricket is my wife. She's been really supportive. When I pulled my calf in the first Ashes Test, it was the second or third time I had pulled my calf and I was really considering whether I wanted to go through the rehab again," he said. "She basically took us away on holiday and told me to stop being silly. She told me to carry on. She wants me to keep playing; she encourages me to keep playing. She's quite happy for me not to be around the house I think," he concluded.

Cricket: Looking forward to playing against Virat Kohli again, says James Anderson

The much-anticipated India-England series is set to start on August 4 in Nottingham. It will also kick off the second cycle of the World Test Championship.

The England side enjoys home benefit which will assume a key part.

The Indian group has been in England for more than two months currently however have not played a lot of cricket.

They were offered a break after the World Test title last and entered the bio-bubble in mid-July. India played a warm-up match against the County XI but Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane were not a part of the team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England?">Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England?</a>

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

Overall: A total of 126 Test matches have been played between the two sides. Team India have won 48 of them, England has won 29 and 49 matches have been drawn.

However, in England: A total of 62 Test matches have been played between the two sides. Team India have won seven of them, England has won 34 and 21 matches have finished in a draw.

The last time these two sides clashed in a four-match Test series facilitated by India was in February this year. In the last Test, India ruled England with a complete win by an innings and 25 runs, consequently taking the series 3-1.

<h2>England</h2>

Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will miss this series. Jofra Archer is nursing a physical issue while Ben Stokes has taken a break because of mental wellness issues.

The pacer, however, is an imperative part of the team and can be supplanted because of the immense assets that England has.

Any semblance of Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Dan Lawrence, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope on occasion don't rouse the most elevated level of certainty and it very well may be intriguing with regards to how they counter India's experienced spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and pace bowler Mohammed Shami.

England's Probable Playing XI: Rory Burns, Dominic Sibley, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root (C), Jos Buttler (WK), Daniel Lawrence, Ollie Robinson/Sam Curran, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood, James Anderson, and Jack Leach.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-cricket-tour-of-bangladesh-for-september-october-postponed-until-2023-402609" hreflang="en">England's cricket tour of Bangladesh for September-October postponed until 2023</a>

<h2>India</h2>

For India, Shubhman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Avesh Khan have been ruled out of the series while Mayank Agarwal has been ruled out of the first Test. KL Rahul is probably going to accomplice Rohit Sharma as an opener.

The middle-order will have an enormous job on its hands as captain Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are three of the most experienced Test batsmen in the Indian team. They were not amongst the runs in the World Test Championship final and will hope to have an effect from the beginning of the series against England.

It is intriguing to see whether India picks two spinners in Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin in its playing XI or go with a swing bowler in Shardul Thakur or Mohammed Siraj.

India's Probable Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja/Shardul Thakur, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Shami.

The much-anticipated India-England series is set to start on August 4 in Nottingham. It will also kick off the second cycle of the World Test Championship. The England side enjoys home benefit which will assume a key part.

The much-anticipated India-England series is set to start on August 4 in Nottingham. It will also kick off the second cycle of the World Test Championship. The England side enjoys home benefit which will assume a key part. The Indian group has been in England for more than two months currently however have not played a lot of cricket. They were offered a break after the World Test title last and entered the bio-bubble in mid-July. India played a warm-up match against the County XI but Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane were not a part of the team. ALSO READ: Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England? Head-to-Head Overall: A total of 126 Test matches have been played between the two sides. Team India have won 48 of them, England has won 29 and 49 matches have been drawn. However, in England: A total of 62 Test matches have been played between the two sides. Team India have won seven of them, England has won 34 and 21 matches have finished in a draw. The last time these two sides clashed in a four-match Test series facilitated by India was in February this year. In the last Test, India ruled England with a complete win by an innings and 25 runs, consequently taking the series 3-1. England Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will miss this series. Jofra Archer is nursing a physical issue while Ben Stokes has taken a break because of mental wellness issues. The pacer, however, is an imperative part of the team and can be supplanted because of the immense assets that England has. Any semblance of Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Dan Lawrence, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope on occasion don't rouse the most elevated level of certainty and it very well may be intriguing with regards to how they counter India's experienced spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and pace bowler Mohammed Shami. England's Probable Playing XI: Rory Burns, Dominic Sibley, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root (C), Jos Buttler (WK), Daniel Lawrence, Ollie Robinson/Sam Curran, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood, James Anderson, and Jack Leach. ALSO READ: England's cricket tour of Bangladesh for September-October postponed until 2023 India For India, Shubhman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Avesh Khan have been ruled out of the series while Mayank Agarwal has been ruled out of the first Test. KL Rahul is probably going to accomplice Rohit Sharma as an opener. The middle-order will have an enormous job on its hands as captain Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are three of the most experienced Test batsmen in the Indian team. They were not amongst the runs in the World Test Championship final and will hope to have an effect from the beginning of the series against England. It is intriguing to see whether India picks two spinners in Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin in its playing XI or go with a swing bowler in Shardul Thakur or Mohammed Siraj. India's Probable Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja/Shardul Thakur, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Shami.

Cricket: England, India lock horns in first Test of the new World Test Championship cycle

From Virat Kohli to Simone Biles: Sports icons who battled with mental health issues

England and India will lock horns in a five-match Test series that is set to get in progress on August 4 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The two sides are coming into this series subsequent to baffling losses against New Zealand in a home Test series and the World Test Championship Final, individually.

Both the teams will kick start the second edition of the ICC World Test Championship. The Indian cricket team, currently placed at second position in ICC Test rankings, will confront the fourth positioned England.

<h2>As the 3rd&nbsp;T20I is set to be played&nbsp;on July 28, here are all the details about the time, place,&nbsp;live streaming of India vs Sri Lanka, 3rd&nbsp;T20I.&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>When to watch&nbsp;England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test?</h2>

The 1st&nbsp;Test&nbsp;between England and India will begin at 15:30&nbsp;PM IST on August 4th and the toss will take place at 15:00&nbsp;PM IST.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-even-20-30-runs-matter-a-lot-ajinkya-rahane-hopeful-for-contributions-from-tail-enders-402510" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'Even 20-30 runs matter a lot': Ajinkya Rahane hopeful for contributions from tail-enders</a>

<h2>Where to watch England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test?</h2>

The match is set to take place at Trent Bridge ground in Nottingham

<h2>Where will England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test&nbsp;be live-streamed?&nbsp;</h2>

The 1st&nbsp;Test between England and India will be streamed live on SonyLiv.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will&nbsp;England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test&nbsp;be telecasted?</h2>

The 1st&nbsp;Test between England and India will be aired live on Sony Sports Network.

England and India will lock horns in a five-match Test series that is set to get in progress on August 4 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The two sides are coming into this series subsequent to baffling losses against New Zealand in a home Test series and the World Test Championship Final, individually.

England and India will lock horns in a five-match Test series that is set to get in progress on August 4 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The two sides are coming into this series subsequent to baffling losses against New Zealand in a home Test series and the World Test Championship Final, individually. Both the teams will kick start the second edition of the ICC World Test Championship. The Indian cricket team, currently placed at second position in ICC Test rankings, will confront the fourth positioned England. As the 3rd T20I is set to be played on July 28, here are all the details about the time, place, live streaming of India vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I. When to watch England and India, 1st Test? The 1st Test between England and India will begin at 15:30 PM IST on August 4th and the toss will take place at 15:00 PM IST. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'Even 20-30 runs matter a lot': Ajinkya Rahane hopeful for contributions from tail-enders Where to watch England and India, 1st Test? The match is set to take place at Trent Bridge ground in Nottingham Where will England and India, 1st Test be live-streamed? The 1st Test between England and India will be streamed live on SonyLiv. Where will England and India, 1st Test be telecasted? The 1st Test between England and India will be aired live on Sony Sports Network.

Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England? (not to be publshed)

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra feels if opening batsman Rohit Sharma has a good England tour, the chances of India winning the series against the Three Lions would increase.

India and England will lock horns in a five-match Test series beginning Wednesday at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The series will mark the start of the second cycle of the World Test Championship.

Mayank Agarwal has been ruled out of the first Test due to a concussion. Shubman Gill was ruled out earlier, and Nehra believes that KL Rahul should be given a go as the opening partner to Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mayank-agarwal-ruled-out-of-first-test-against-england-402442" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England</a>

"The team management earlier said that we are looking at KL Rahul in the middle order. But see, I have seen KL Rahul as an opener in white-ball format. Before Hanuma Vihari, why not KL Rahul? Although I already feel that we have too many people floating around the opening slot, I hope Rohit plays all Tests. If I had to take chance, I would rather go in with KL Rahul as an opener," said Nehra during a virtual press conference organised by a media outlet.&nbsp;

"I really hope Rohit Sharma has a good England tour. If he has a good tour, then we as a team, our chances will be much better. If you can start well, it will keep a strong foundation," he added.

When asked whether Mohammed Siraj should be given a go in the first Test, Nehra said: "Yes, Mohammed Siraj is waiting in the wings but he has to wait for his turn. Everybody knows that Siraj is a very skillful bowler but here you are talking about a guy like Jasprit Bumrah who has done really well in the last five-six years since his arrival. You have to start with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/engvsind-cricket-is-secondary-just-want-my-friend-to-be-okay-says-joe-root-on-ben-stokes-402503" hreflang="en">ENGvsIND: Cricket is secondary, just want my friend to be okay, says Joe Root on Ben Stokes</a>

"If you want a fourth fast bowler, we are not there, the captain, coach, and team management can take a call based on who has been bowling well. Whether you want to go with Umesh Yadav or you want to play Siraj. But if you are playing three seamers then you will start with Bumrah, Shami, and Ishant unless there is an injury to any of them," he added.

Nehra also said that he does not agree with the concept that every bowler needs to be able to swing the ball in England to get success. "I don`t agree that you need only swing bowlers in England. Look at somebody like Stuart Broad. Even Jofra Archer is not a swing bowler. But they are England`s main weapons, so a lot depends on how you bowl and it`s not like Bumrah or Shami can`t swing the ball or they need one particular surface to achieve results," said Nehra.

Answering a question of whether India has the best possible opportunity to defeat England in England with Ben Stokes opting out of the series, Nehra said: "See, you cannot say this is the best opportunity. In 2007, India won 1-0 when Rahul Dravid was the captain, but you should not think of it like a now or never situation. England has resources, new players are coming in and they are going through a transition. Ben Stokes is not there, but Buttler is there. You are talking about a team sport, Stokes is an all-rounder, but that can happen to any team. India has to play really well to defeat England in England."

When asked what sort of combination India should opt for in the series against England, Nehra said: "It all depends on the surface you are playing. When you talk about three-four seamers, these discussions just happen when you are playing in England, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand. There is more life on the pitches, I agree but it is not like there is swing available on every pitch you play."

India's tour of England will be live on SONY SIX channels from 3.30 pm IST on August 4.&nbsp;

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra feels if opening batsman Rohit Sharma has a good England tour, the chances of India winning the series against the Three Lions would increase.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra feels if opening batsman Rohit Sharma has a good England tour, the chances of India winning the series against the Three Lions would increase. India and England will lock horns in a five-match Test series beginning Wednesday at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The series will mark the start of the second cycle of the World Test Championship. Mayank Agarwal has been ruled out of the first Test due to a concussion. Shubman Gill was ruled out earlier, and Nehra believes that KL Rahul should be given a go as the opening partner to Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ | Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England "The team management earlier said that we are looking at KL Rahul in the middle order. But see, I have seen KL Rahul as an opener in white-ball format. Before Hanuma Vihari, why not KL Rahul? Although I already feel that we have too many people floating around the opening slot, I hope Rohit plays all Tests. If I had to take chance, I would rather go in with KL Rahul as an opener," said Nehra during a virtual press conference organised by a media outlet. "I really hope Rohit Sharma has a good England tour. If he has a good tour, then we as a team, our chances will be much better. If you can start well, it will keep a strong foundation," he added. When asked whether Mohammed Siraj should be given a go in the first Test, Nehra said: "Yes, Mohammed Siraj is waiting in the wings but he has to wait for his turn. Everybody knows that Siraj is a very skillful bowler but here you are talking about a guy like Jasprit Bumrah who has done really well in the last five-six years since his arrival. You have to start with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma." ALSO READ: ENGvsIND: Cricket is secondary, just want my friend to be okay, says Joe Root on Ben Stokes "If you want a fourth fast bowler, we are not there, the captain, coach, and team management can take a call based on who has been bowling well. Whether you want to go with Umesh Yadav or you want to play Siraj. But if you are playing three seamers then you will start with Bumrah, Shami, and Ishant unless there is an injury to any of them," he added. Nehra also said that he does not agree with the concept that every bowler needs to be able to swing the ball in England to get success. "I don`t agree that you need only swing bowlers in England. Look at somebody like Stuart Broad. Even Jofra Archer is not a swing bowler. But they are England`s main weapons, so a lot depends on how you bowl and it`s not like Bumrah or Shami can`t swing the ball or they need one particular surface to achieve results," said Nehra. Answering a question of whether India has the best possible opportunity to defeat England in England with Ben Stokes opting out of the series, Nehra said: "See, you cannot say this is the best opportunity. In 2007, India won 1-0 when Rahul Dravid was the captain, but you should not think of it like a now or never situation. England has resources, new players are coming in and they are going through a transition. Ben Stokes is not there, but Buttler is there. You are talking about a team sport, Stokes is an all-rounder, but that can happen to any team. India has to play really well to defeat England in England." When asked what sort of combination India should opt for in the series against England, Nehra said: "It all depends on the surface you are playing. When you talk about three-four seamers, these discussions just happen when you are playing in England, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand. There is more life on the pitches, I agree but it is not like there is swing available on every pitch you play." India's tour of England will be live on SONY SIX channels from 3.30 pm IST on August 4.

ENGvsIND: If Rohit Sharma has a good tour, India's chances of winning will be more, says Ashish Nehra

The cricket fans are excitedly hanging tight for the eagerly awaited five-match Test series between England and India which gets under from August 4 in Nottingham.&nbsp;

Ahead of the first match, Virat Kohli spoke with former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik during which the Indian skipper uncovered his point of view to play a Test match on English soil. He said it takes 'relentless madness’ and single-minded pursuit of excellence to win a Test series here.

“I’ll answer your second question first, it takes 'relentless madness and the pursuit of excellence' every day on a series of five tests, to tell you that I want to do the hard work and that I want to find myself in tough situations every test match every day," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mayank-agarwal-ruled-out-of-first-test-against-england-402442" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England</a>

"And you’re going to be ready for that kind of workload and that kind of mental load," he added.

For the Indian skipper, winning in England is just winning elsewhere and it's about the team culture of taking a stab at victory.&nbsp;

“To answer your first question, for me personally it means nothing more than winning a test match or test series anywhere else in the world. Like I said, to me these things aren’t career anecdotes or career milestones," he said.

“We get on the pitch and we compete and we look to win every test match, that’s what matters most to me, because again, it’s a culture, it’s results,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/engvsind-cricket-is-secondary-just-want-my-friend-to-be-okay-says-joe-root-on-ben-stokes-402503" hreflang="en">ENGvsIND: Cricket is secondary, just want my friend to be okay, says Joe Root on Ben Stokes</a>

“For Indian cricket, it will be a huge thing and we have done it before and we can do it again, but this culture is what is dearest to me and I will do whatever I can, even if you lose a test match," said the Indian skipper.

“I want us to aim for the win and not surrender and try to save a test match on the third or fourth day, that’s just not acceptable to me,” he added

“So for me, as I said, the milestones don’t matter. If I had played for milestones in my career, I probably wouldn’t have half of what I have right now. My state of mind is quite clear and for us, it’s just the pursuit of excellence," he concluded.

The cricket fans are excitedly hanging tight for the eagerly awaited five-match Test series between England and India which gets under from August 4 in Nottingham.

The cricket fans are excitedly hanging tight for the eagerly awaited five-match Test series between England and India which gets under from August 4 in Nottingham. Ahead of the first match, Virat Kohli spoke with former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik during which the Indian skipper uncovered his point of view to play a Test match on English soil. He said it takes 'relentless madness’ and single-minded pursuit of excellence to win a Test series here. “I’ll answer your second question first, it takes 'relentless madness and the pursuit of excellence' every day on a series of five tests, to tell you that I want to do the hard work and that I want to find myself in tough situations every test match every day," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England "And you’re going to be ready for that kind of workload and that kind of mental load," he added. For the Indian skipper, winning in England is just winning elsewhere and it's about the team culture of taking a stab at victory. “To answer your first question, for me personally it means nothing more than winning a test match or test series anywhere else in the world. Like I said, to me these things aren’t career anecdotes or career milestones," he said. “We get on the pitch and we compete and we look to win every test match, that’s what matters most to me, because again, it’s a culture, it’s results,” he added. ALSO READ: ENGvsIND: Cricket is secondary, just want my friend to be okay, says Joe Root on Ben Stokes “For Indian cricket, it will be a huge thing and we have done it before and we can do it again, but this culture is what is dearest to me and I will do whatever I can, even if you lose a test match," said the Indian skipper. “I want us to aim for the win and not surrender and try to save a test match on the third or fourth day, that’s just not acceptable to me,” he added “So for me, as I said, the milestones don’t matter. If I had played for milestones in my career, I probably wouldn’t have half of what I have right now. My state of mind is quite clear and for us, it’s just the pursuit of excellence," he concluded.

Cricket: 'It takes relentless madness, pursuit of excellence' to win Test series in England, says Virat Kohli

Revenge will be on Joe Root's mind when he leads England in a five-test series against Virat Kohli's India beginning in Nottingham on Wednesday, kicking off a new World Test Series (WTC) cycle in the process. 
 
Both sides are smarting from the mauling they received from New Zealand in June with England losing at home and India in the WTC final in Southampton. 
 
Under Root, England have lost four of their last five tests, paying the price for sticking doggedly to a rest-and-rotation policy, which they have now decided to abandon.\

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shane-warne-tests-positive-for-covid-19-and-undergoes-self-isolation-402340" hreflang="en">Cricket: Shane Warne tests positive for COVID-19 and undergoes self-isolation</a> 
 
They were beaten 3-1 in India earlier this year, and Root tasted his first home series defeat when New Zealand came calling. 
 
"We are coming into a period of time now where rest and rotation is put behind us," Root recently said. 
 
"Hopefully, if everyone is fit, we are going to have our best team available for what is to follow. That's really exciting and something I`m very much looking forward to." 
 
Their bowling would have a big void in absence of speedster Jofra Archer.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-young-india-bowlers-ready-to-take-over-from-bumrah-and-shami-says-brett-lee-402372">Cricket: Young India bowlers ready to take over from Bumrah and Shami, says Brett Lee</a> 
 
The Barbados-born quick underwent an elbow surgery in May and has since made a low-key return for Sussex but is not yet ready for the rigour of test cricket. 
 
Root would also be disappointed that deputy Ben Stokes'&nbsp;rushed comeback, from a finger injury, did not last long. 
 
Stokes led a second-string England one-day squad to a 3-0 series sweep against Pakistan but has now taken an indefinite break from the game to prioritise his mental wellbeing. 
 
India have their own share of personnel issues as well. 
 
Opener Shubman Gill, all-rounder Washington Sundar and pace bowler Avesh Khan have returned home with injuries even before the start of the series. 
 
Opener Prithvi Shaw has been called up but Mayank Agarwal is likely to partner Rohit Sharma at the top of their batting order in Nottingham. 
 
Vice captain Ajinkya Rahane is also recovering from a hamstring injury that kept him out of the warm-up match in Durham. 
 
New Zealand exposed India's vulnerability in seam-friendly conditions in Southampton but Kohli is determined not to let James Anderson and Stuart Broad dominate. 
 
"The idea from here on will be to try to score runs and not worry about getting out in testing conditions," Kohli said of the challenge ahead. 
 
"That's the only way you can score and put the opposition under pressure, otherwise you`re just literally standing there hoping that you don't get out and eventually you will..."

Revenge will be on Joe Root's mind when he leads England in a five-test series against Virat Kohli's India beginning in Nottingham on Wednesday, kicking off a new World Test Series (WTC) cycle in the process.

Revenge will be on Joe Root's mind when he leads England in a five-test series against Virat Kohli's India beginning in Nottingham on Wednesday, kicking off a new World Test Series (WTC) cycle in the process. Both sides are smarting from the mauling they received from New Zealand in June with England losing at home and India in the WTC final in Southampton. Under Root, England have lost four of their last five tests, paying the price for sticking doggedly to a rest-and-rotation policy, which they have now decided to abandon.\ ALSO READ | Cricket: Shane Warne tests positive for COVID-19 and undergoes self-isolation They were beaten 3-1 in India earlier this year, and Root tasted his first home series defeat when New Zealand came calling. "We are coming into a period of time now where rest and rotation is put behind us," Root recently said. "Hopefully, if everyone is fit, we are going to have our best team available for what is to follow. That's really exciting and something I`m very much looking forward to." Their bowling would have a big void in absence of speedster Jofra Archer. ALSO READ | Cricket: Young India bowlers ready to take over from Bumrah and Shami, says Brett Lee The Barbados-born quick underwent an elbow surgery in May and has since made a low-key return for Sussex but is not yet ready for the rigour of test cricket. Root would also be disappointed that deputy Ben Stokes' rushed comeback, from a finger injury, did not last long. Stokes led a second-string England one-day squad to a 3-0 series sweep against Pakistan but has now taken an indefinite break from the game to prioritise his mental wellbeing. India have their own share of personnel issues as well. Opener Shubman Gill, all-rounder Washington Sundar and pace bowler Avesh Khan have returned home with injuries even before the start of the series. Opener Prithvi Shaw has been called up but Mayank Agarwal is likely to partner Rohit Sharma at the top of their batting order in Nottingham. Vice captain Ajinkya Rahane is also recovering from a hamstring injury that kept him out of the warm-up match in Durham. New Zealand exposed India's vulnerability in seam-friendly conditions in Southampton but Kohli is determined not to let James Anderson and Stuart Broad dominate. "The idea from here on will be to try to score runs and not worry about getting out in testing conditions," Kohli said of the challenge ahead. "That's the only way you can score and put the opposition under pressure, otherwise you`re just literally standing there hoping that you don't get out and eventually you will..."

Cricket: Hurting India meet England minus Ben Stokes to begin new WTC cycle

Pakistan's former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has offered a piece of advice to all pacers of India for the upcoming Test series against England. Virat Kohli-led team India will lock horns with England in a five-match series that will kick-off with the first match scheduled to begin on August 4 in Nottingham.

The Pakistani speedster said that the aggression of the fast bowlers lies in their lengths. He further highlighted his success was not due to bouncers, but hitting the right areas. Akhtar also suggested that the Indian pacers must keep variation in their bowling.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-krunal-pandyas-luxurious-8-bhk-apartment-has-over-the-top-amenities-see-pics-402039">Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics</a>

After losing the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) against New Zealand, India will look to winning ways and clinch their first Test series in England since 2007. With the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, India boasts of one of the best pace attacks in the current scenario, however, as also mentioned by Akhtar, England pacers like Jofra Archer and James Anderson will have home advantage.&nbsp;

In his Youtube channel, Akhtar said, "The aggression of the fast bowlers is in their length. People think that I was aggressive because of bowling bouncers, but no. I was aggressive because I was constantly hitting the right areas, and with the pace, with the variation in pace. So, whoever goes in from the Indian side, just remember to hit the deck with a lot of aggression and a lot of pace. And keep doing this variation throughout, which is the most important thing."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-year-ban-for-gunathilaka-mendis-and-dickwella-along-with-hefty-fine-slc-401888">One year ban for Gunathilaka, Mendis and Dickwella, along with hefty fine: SLC</a>

He further added, "Once you find your aggression in length, then don’t let that go. Make sure you have your match on within your brain, not with the batsmen. It is my skill that is going to outsmart you out there. This is the mindset that you should have. It’s not about people who are holding the bad days or enemies of yours, no, it is your skill which is your best enemy, who is not letting you or allowing you to display that talent. In order to display that talent, you have to go through the pain barrier."

Pakistan's former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has offered a piece of advice to all pacers of India for the upcoming Test series against England. Virat Kohli-led team India will lock horns with England in a five-match series that will kick-off with the first match scheduled to begin on August 4 in Nottingham.

Pakistan's former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has offered a piece of advice to all pacers of India for the upcoming Test series against England. Virat Kohli-led team India will lock horns with England in a five-match series that will kick-off with the first match scheduled to begin on August 4 in Nottingham. The Pakistani speedster said that the aggression of the fast bowlers lies in their lengths. He further highlighted his success was not due to bouncers, but hitting the right areas. Akhtar also suggested that the Indian pacers must keep variation in their bowling. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics After losing the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) against New Zealand, India will look to winning ways and clinch their first Test series in England since 2007. With the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, India boasts of one of the best pace attacks in the current scenario, however, as also mentioned by Akhtar, England pacers like Jofra Archer and James Anderson will have home advantage. In his Youtube channel, Akhtar said, "The aggression of the fast bowlers is in their length. People think that I was aggressive because of bowling bouncers, but no. I was aggressive because I was constantly hitting the right areas, and with the pace, with the variation in pace. So, whoever goes in from the Indian side, just remember to hit the deck with a lot of aggression and a lot of pace. And keep doing this variation throughout, which is the most important thing." ALSO READ | One year ban for Gunathilaka, Mendis and Dickwella, along with hefty fine: SLC He further added, "Once you find your aggression in length, then don’t let that go. Make sure you have your match on within your brain, not with the batsmen. It is my skill that is going to outsmart you out there. This is the mindset that you should have. It’s not about people who are holding the bad days or enemies of yours, no, it is your skill which is your best enemy, who is not letting you or allowing you to display that talent. In order to display that talent, you have to go through the pain barrier."

Cricket - Shoaib Akhtar's advice to Indian pacers for England series: 'Remember to hit the deck with a lot of aggression'

The India-New Zealand final in Southampton last month was the most-watched on average across all series that were part of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC), recording a total cumulative global dedicated audience of 177 million, with live viewership touching 130.6 million across 89 territories.&nbsp;

India contributed most of the audience with Star Sports and national broadcaster Doordarshan accounting for a whopping 94.6% consumption of the intensely contested match that saw New Zealand complete an eight-wicket win on the Reserve Day.

In addition to the English-language world feed, Star had produced local language feeds in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sri-lanka-vs-india-2nd-t20i-postponed-due-to-a-covid-19-case-in-the-indian-camp-reports-400952" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sri Lanka vs India 2nd T20I postponed after Krunal Pandya tests positive for COVID-19</a>

<h2>World Test Championship&nbsp;final viewership numbers</h2>

The viewership was also impressive in New Zealand. considering its small population and the inconvenient time of broadcast, over 200,000 people staying up all night or waking up very early in the mornings to watch their team win the battle of attrition and lift the coveted Test Mace on Sky Sport.

In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports recorded the highest-rated match in the 2019-2021 WTC cycle for a match not involving hosts England and the Reserve Day was also the most-watched day of a non-England Test match since 2015.

The launch of ICC’s OTT platform ICC.tv resulted in an additional 665,100 live views from over 145 territories outside of the key broadcast markets, totaling 14 million viewing minutes.

ICC digital platforms witnessed total views of over 500 million across all video content watched during the match window. Facebook provided most of the consumption across ICC digital assets with 423 million views and 368 million minutes consumed on the ICC Page.&nbsp;

The Reserve Day saw the most views ever recorded across the ICC Facebook page on a single day, with 65.7 million individual views across the 24-hour period, surpassing the 64.3 million enjoyed during the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020.&nbsp;

Instagram added a further 70 million individual views across the final, with Stories providing nearly 10% of these. Further contributions from the ICC website and mobile app, as well ICC’s channels on Twitter and YouTube, took the total video views to 515 million.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sachin-tendulkar-helps-19-year-old-dipti-to-pursue-her-dream-of-becoming-a-doctor-400963" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sachin Tendulkar helps 19-year-old Dipti to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor</a>

ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya: “The viewership data for broadcast and digital coverage of the ICC World Test Championship Final presents a really heartening picture, showing strong consumption across territories and languages as well as formats.

“The ICC always strives to give the best possible viewership experience and will continue to invest in resources that enhance the viewing pleasure and engagement of our fans. We thank all our partners for contributing to this success and their support in continuing to elevate our standards in the coming years,” he added.

The India-New Zealand final in Southampton last month was the most-watched on average across all series that were part of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC), recording a total cumulative global dedicated audience of 177 million, with live viewership touching 130.

The India-New Zealand final in Southampton last month was the most-watched on average across all series that were part of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC), recording a total cumulative global dedicated audience of 177 million, with live viewership touching 130.6 million across 89 territories. India contributed most of the audience with Star Sports and national broadcaster Doordarshan accounting for a whopping 94.6% consumption of the intensely contested match that saw New Zealand complete an eight-wicket win on the Reserve Day. In addition to the English-language world feed, Star had produced local language feeds in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lanka vs India 2nd T20I postponed after Krunal Pandya tests positive for COVID-19 World Test Championship final viewership numbers The viewership was also impressive in New Zealand. considering its small population and the inconvenient time of broadcast, over 200,000 people staying up all night or waking up very early in the mornings to watch their team win the battle of attrition and lift the coveted Test Mace on Sky Sport. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports recorded the highest-rated match in the 2019-2021 WTC cycle for a match not involving hosts England and the Reserve Day was also the most-watched day of a non-England Test match since 2015. The launch of ICC’s OTT platform ICC.tv resulted in an additional 665,100 live views from over 145 territories outside of the key broadcast markets, totaling 14 million viewing minutes. ICC digital platforms witnessed total views of over 500 million across all video content watched during the match window. Facebook provided most of the consumption across ICC digital assets with 423 million views and 368 million minutes consumed on the ICC Page. The Reserve Day saw the most views ever recorded across the ICC Facebook page on a single day, with 65.7 million individual views across the 24-hour period, surpassing the 64.3 million enjoyed during the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020. Instagram added a further 70 million individual views across the final, with Stories providing nearly 10% of these. Further contributions from the ICC website and mobile app, as well ICC’s channels on Twitter and YouTube, took the total video views to 515 million. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sachin Tendulkar helps 19-year-old Dipti to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor ICC Chief Commercial Officer Anurag Dahiya: “The viewership data for broadcast and digital coverage of the ICC World Test Championship Final presents a really heartening picture, showing strong consumption across territories and languages as well as formats. “The ICC always strives to give the best possible viewership experience and will continue to invest in resources that enhance the viewing pleasure and engagement of our fans. We thank all our partners for contributing to this success and their support in continuing to elevate our standards in the coming years,” he added.

Cricket: World Test Championship final between India-New Zealand most watched across all series

The skipper of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has a special message to all the Indian athletes at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Kohli's recorded message was shared by the official handle of BCCI, with the hashtag #Cheer4India in support of the Indian contingent. He particularly praised Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu, who emerged as an inspiration for everyone.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-heading-back-mirabai-chanu-set-to-return-to-india-after-a-memorable-olympics-400729">'Heading back': Mirabai Chanu set to return to India after a memorable Olympics</a>

Apart from the skipper, Rahul Dravid, the former cricketer and head coach of the Sri Lanka tour, has also extended his best wishes to the athletes. In another post, BCCI shared Dravid's pre-recorded message. He said, "Let's come together in cheering for our Indian contingent at the Olympics. Let's cheer for India."

Watch Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid's message:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> has a special message for weightlifter <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mirabai_chanu</a>, who won India's first medal at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a>. 🇮🇳 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/suRbQmB4bd">pic.twitter.com/suRbQmB4bd</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1419584403303542784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Dravid - batting legend &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Head Coach for the Sri Lanka series - is cheering for our athletes at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a>. 👍 👍 
 
Let's join him &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> 🇮🇳 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/eJzXjM3IJN">pic.twitter.com/eJzXjM3IJN</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1419545520075276292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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So far, Mirabai Chanu's silver remains the only medal in the Indian tally after she finished second in the women's 49kg weightlifting event. The 26-year-old managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;

Chanu victory was monumental as it came two decades after Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400707" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

Recently, Rohit Sharma, who is currently with the Indian squad that will face England in the five-match Test series which commences on August 04, also wished the Indian team also wished India at the Tokyo Olympics. Cricketers Ajinkya Rahane and Shubman Gill also send their best wishes.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> shows his support for our athletes at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a>. 👏 👏 
 
Let us all come together &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> 🇮🇳 👍 👍<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/aVeQFwImKd">pic.twitter.com/aVeQFwImKd</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1418903790389014536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> is cheering for our athletes at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a>. 👏 👏 
 
Let's join him &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> 🇮🇳 👍👍 <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/atYNYI77Wd">pic.twitter.com/atYNYI77Wd</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1419190517120868359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/RealShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealShubmanGill</a> shows his support for our athletes at <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tokyo2020</a>. 👏 👏 
 
Let us all come together &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> 🇮🇳 👍 👍 <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/iHrosqTqvG">pic.twitter.com/iHrosqTqvG</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1419605917063073794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

The skipper of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has a special message to all the Indian athletes at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Kohli's recorded message was shared by the official handle of BCCI, with the hashtag #Cheer4India in support of the Indian contingent.

The skipper of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has a special message to all the Indian athletes at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Kohli's recorded message was shared by the official handle of BCCI, with the hashtag #Cheer4India in support of the Indian contingent. He particularly praised Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu, who emerged as an inspiration for everyone. Also Read: 'Heading back': Mirabai Chanu set to return to India after a memorable Olympics Apart from the skipper, Rahul Dravid, the former cricketer and head coach of the Sri Lanka tour, has also extended his best wishes to the athletes. In another post, BCCI shared Dravid's pre-recorded message. He said, "Let's come together in cheering for our Indian contingent at the Olympics. Let's cheer for India." Watch Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid's message: #TeamIndia captain @imVkohli has a special message for weightlifter @mirabai_chanu, who won India's first medal at @Tokyo2020. 🇮🇳 👏 👏@IndiaSports | @Media_SAI | @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/suRbQmB4bd — BCCI (@BCCI) July 26, 2021 × Rahul Dravid - batting legend & #TeamIndia's Head Coach for the Sri Lanka series - is cheering for our athletes at @Tokyo2020. 👍 👍 Let's join him & #Cheer4India 🇮🇳 👏 👏@IndiaSports | @Media_SAI | @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/eJzXjM3IJN — BCCI (@BCCI) July 26, 2021 × So far, Mirabai Chanu's silver remains the only medal in the Indian tally after she finished second in the women's 49kg weightlifting event. The 26-year-old managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Chanu victory was monumental as it came two decades after Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Recently, Rohit Sharma, who is currently with the Indian squad that will face England in the five-match Test series which commences on August 04, also wished the Indian team also wished India at the Tokyo Olympics. Cricketers Ajinkya Rahane and Shubman Gill also send their best wishes. .@ImRo45 shows his support for our athletes at @Tokyo2020. 👏 👏 Let us all come together & #Cheer4India 🇮🇳 👍 👍@IndiaSports | @Media_SAI | @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/aVeQFwImKd — BCCI (@BCCI) July 24, 2021 × .@ajinkyarahane88 is cheering for our athletes at @Tokyo2020. 👏 👏 Let's join him & #Cheer4India 🇮🇳 👍👍 @IndiaSports | @Media_SAI | @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/atYNYI77Wd — BCCI (@BCCI) July 25, 2021 × .@RealShubmanGill shows his support for our athletes at @Tokyo2020. 👏 👏 Let us all come together & #Cheer4India 🇮🇳 👍 👍 @IndiaSports | @Media_SAI | @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/iHrosqTqvG — BCCI (@BCCI) July 26, 2021 × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid's special message for Indian contingent at Tokyo Olympics 2020 - Watch

Former Pakistani captain Salman Butt has weighed in on the much-debated topic in the cricketing arena these days regarding the Indian cricket team. Ever since the Virat Kohli-led team lost the ICC World Test Championship Final (WTC) against New Zealand besides the absence of major ICC trophy since eight years, a gourp of fans have dubbed the Men In Blue as the "new chokers", a tag that has been associated with South Africa team as they have failed to reach finals of major ICC tournaments since their re-admission to cricket in 1992.&nbsp;

Although, India have reputation of giving exemplary performances at the ICC tournaments, but some of the critics have been raising concerns over performances in past few years. Butt, in his YouTube video, straightaway defended the Indian team and said that they dont have a "long history" of not winning an ICC event.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400707" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

The 36-year-old mentioned the trophies India won when MS Dhoni was leading the team. He&nbsp;said, "Under previous captain MS Dhoni, India won the Champions Trophy (2013), the World T20 (2007), and the 50-over World Cup (2011). Recently, India played the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the 2019 World Cup semi-final. They have been almost there among the world’s Top 2 teams. So, the frequency of India’s losses is not that much to term them as chokers." India last won an ICC event under the leadership of MS Dhoni in 2013. Since then,&nbsp;they have entered the last four of every ICC tournament and also played the finals on three occasions, but failed to win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-announces-schedule-for-remainder-of-ipl-2021-check-out-400579" hreflang="en">Cricket: BCCI announces schedule for the remainder of IPL 2021 - check out</a>

“Look at the number of semi-finals New Zealand have played in the World Cup. They have played two finals as well (2015 and 2019). Nobody called them chokers. South Africa were termed chokers because they frequently lost big matches. They went down in a lot of finals and crunch games. That isn’t the case with India as yet,” he added.

Meanwhile, team India is all set to play the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool. Recently, former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar predicted the winner. He said that the India and pakistan will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-predicts-winner-of-t20-world-cup-says-india-will-lose-to-pakistan-400357">Shoaib Akhtar predicts winner of T20 World Cup, says 'India will lose to Pakistan'</a>

Click <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports">here</a> for sports-related update!

Former Pakistani captain Salman Butt has weighed in on the much-debated topic in the cricketing arena these days regarding the Indian cricket team. Ever since the Virat Kohli-led team lost the ICC World Test Championship Final (WTC) against New Zealand besides the absence of major ICC trophy since eight years, a gourp of fans have dubbed the Men In Blue as the "new chokers", a tag that has been associated with South Africa team as they have failed to reach finals of major ICC tournaments since their re-admission to cricket in 1992.

Former Pakistani captain Salman Butt has weighed in on the much-debated topic in the cricketing arena these days regarding the Indian cricket team. Ever since the Virat Kohli-led team lost the ICC World Test Championship Final (WTC) against New Zealand besides the absence of major ICC trophy since eight years, a gourp of fans have dubbed the Men In Blue as the "new chokers", a tag that has been associated with South Africa team as they have failed to reach finals of major ICC tournaments since their re-admission to cricket in 1992. Although, India have reputation of giving exemplary performances at the ICC tournaments, but some of the critics have been raising concerns over performances in past few years. Butt, in his YouTube video, straightaway defended the Indian team and said that they dont have a "long history" of not winning an ICC event. ALSO READ | Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback The 36-year-old mentioned the trophies India won when MS Dhoni was leading the team. He said, "Under previous captain MS Dhoni, India won the Champions Trophy (2013), the World T20 (2007), and the 50-over World Cup (2011). Recently, India played the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the 2019 World Cup semi-final. They have been almost there among the world’s Top 2 teams. So, the frequency of India’s losses is not that much to term them as chokers." India last won an ICC event under the leadership of MS Dhoni in 2013. Since then, they have entered the last four of every ICC tournament and also played the finals on three occasions, but failed to win. ALSO READ: Cricket: BCCI announces schedule for the remainder of IPL 2021 - check out “Look at the number of semi-finals New Zealand have played in the World Cup. They have played two finals as well (2015 and 2019). Nobody called them chokers. South Africa were termed chokers because they frequently lost big matches. They went down in a lot of finals and crunch games. That isn’t the case with India as yet,” he added. Meanwhile, team India is all set to play the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool. Recently, former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar predicted the winner. He said that the India and pakistan will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India. Also Read: Shoaib Akhtar predicts winner of T20 World Cup, says 'India will lose to Pakistan' Click here for sports-related update!

Don't call team India 'chokers', they don't lose often at ICC events: Salman Butt

BCCI on Monday affirmed Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav as replacements for the injured players. Both Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav, who are right now with the limited-overs side in Sri Lanka, will travel to England to join the Test squad for the Test series against England.

"All-rounder Washington Sundar had taken an injection on his right-hand bowling finger. However, his recovery will take longer than expected and he is not bowling-fit. He is ruled out of the remainder of the tour," the statement read.

"Fast bowler Avesh Khan suffered a blow to his left thumb on Day 1 of the warm-up game. He was taken for an X-Ray and the result confirmed a fracture. A specialist was consulted for further management of his injury. He is ruled out of India’s Tour of England."

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav as replacements," said BCCI in a press release.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-score-big-runs-former-pakistan-skipper-on-prithvi-shaws-comparisons-400604" hreflang="en">You have to score big runs': Former Pakistan skipper on Prithvi Shaw's comparisons</a>

The Indian cricket board additionally mentioned Shubman Gill's fitness status. Shubman has been ruled out of the five-match Test series beginning on August 4 because of a strain injury on his leg in the World Test Championship final.&nbsp;

"Opening batsman Shubman Gill sustained a developing stress reaction on his left lower leg during the World Test Championship final. This was confirmed via an MRI scan. He is ruled out of the tour and has returned back to India," BCCI said.

Rishabh Pant has recuperated from COVID-19 with two negative RT-PCR tests. He has joined the team back and has started his preparations for the impending Test series.&nbsp;

Additionally, Bharat Arun, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, and opener Abhimanyu Easwaran have finished their self-quarantine in London and have now joined Team India in Durham.&nbsp;

India squad for England Tests: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (bad habit chief), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-manager), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-guardian), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prithvi Shaw, Suryakumar Yadav

BCCI on Monday affirmed Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav as replacements for the injured players. Both Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav, who are right now with the limited-overs side in Sri Lanka, will travel to England to join the Test squad for the Test series against England.

BCCI on Monday affirmed Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav as replacements for the injured players. Both Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav, who are right now with the limited-overs side in Sri Lanka, will travel to England to join the Test squad for the Test series against England. "All-rounder Washington Sundar had taken an injection on his right-hand bowling finger. However, his recovery will take longer than expected and he is not bowling-fit. He is ruled out of the remainder of the tour," the statement read. "Fast bowler Avesh Khan suffered a blow to his left thumb on Day 1 of the warm-up game. He was taken for an X-Ray and the result confirmed a fracture. A specialist was consulted for further management of his injury. He is ruled out of India’s Tour of England." "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Prithvi Shaw and Suryakumar Yadav as replacements," said BCCI in a press release. ALSO READ: You have to score big runs': Former Pakistan skipper on Prithvi Shaw's comparisons The Indian cricket board additionally mentioned Shubman Gill's fitness status. Shubman has been ruled out of the five-match Test series beginning on August 4 because of a strain injury on his leg in the World Test Championship final. "Opening batsman Shubman Gill sustained a developing stress reaction on his left lower leg during the World Test Championship final. This was confirmed via an MRI scan. He is ruled out of the tour and has returned back to India," BCCI said. Rishabh Pant has recuperated from COVID-19 with two negative RT-PCR tests. He has joined the team back and has started his preparations for the impending Test series. Additionally, Bharat Arun, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, and opener Abhimanyu Easwaran have finished their self-quarantine in London and have now joined Team India in Durham. India squad for England Tests: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (bad habit chief), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-manager), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-guardian), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prithvi Shaw, Suryakumar Yadav

Cricket: BCCI announces replacements for injured players ahead of the England series

From salary to endorsements: Mind-boggling net worth of Virat Kohli

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."&nbsp;

Speaking further, the Rawalpindi Express also pointed on the viewership and highlighted the issue of a dip in viewership. There are some instances when the viewership is high for some big matches but the trend is inconsistent. Akhtar also tried to establish the reason saying that "characters of the game have gone".&nbsp;

"The viewership of the game has not increased but it has come down because the characters of the game have gone. People are saying there's more viewership, but how is there more viewership? There's no viewership for Test matches. 600 million might have watched the Champions Trophy match, but that was a one-off," he said.&nbsp;

Akhtar on Sachin vs Virat debate

Akhtar weighed in on the highly debated topic in the cricketing world, which is, who is better — Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli? While commenting on the same, Akhtar said, "Give Sachin Tendulkar credit and stop comparing him to Virat Kohli." Shoaib Akhtar, who played against the Master Blaster on many occasions said, "He [Virat] did not play the era of Sachin Tendulkar, which is like the single era of 50 overs, and then the reverse swing starts literally after 10 overs. Face that with Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and the spin of Shane Warne".&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened." Speaking further, the Rawalpindi Express also pointed on the viewership and highlighted the issue of a dip in viewership. There are some instances when the viewership is high for some big matches but the trend is inconsistent. Akhtar also tried to establish the reason saying that "characters of the game have gone". "The viewership of the game has not increased but it has come down because the characters of the game have gone. People are saying there's more viewership, but how is there more viewership? There's no viewership for Test matches. 600 million might have watched the Champions Trophy match, but that was a one-off," he said. Akhtar on Sachin vs Virat debate Akhtar weighed in on the highly debated topic in the cricketing world, which is, who is better — Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli? While commenting on the same, Akhtar said, "Give Sachin Tendulkar credit and stop comparing him to Virat Kohli." Shoaib Akhtar, who played against the Master Blaster on many occasions said, "He [Virat] did not play the era of Sachin Tendulkar, which is like the single era of 50 overs, and then the reverse swing starts literally after 10 overs. Face that with Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and the spin of Shane Warne".

Shoaib Akhtar: 'Today's batmen fortunate as they haven't faced Warne, Akram, Younis and me'

Virat Kohli isn't the richest cricketer in the world; check out the complete list

Who will be the wicket keeper for Indian cricket team, now that Rishabh Pant has tested positive for Covid and reserve glove man Wriddhiman Saha is in self-isolation?

That's the question troubling Virat Kohli and Co ahead of India’s warm-up match against County XI from on July 20 in England.

Dinesh Karthik, who is in England as a commentator, is happy to help.

He hinted as much in a subtle tweet, with a picture of his cricketing kit and a hashtag, #justsaying.

The Tamil Nadu-based player is the wicket keeper of IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders and the kit bag in the picture sports the KKR logo.

The tweet has since gone viral.

&nbsp;

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😋 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/justsaying?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#justsaying</a> <a href="https://t.co/zX3ValErDc">pic.twitter.com/zX3ValErDc</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1415730258523959296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

While he plays for Tamil Nadu and KKR in the IPL, Karthik is not in the national team for the past two years.&nbsp;

His last game for India was the semi-final of the 2019 World Cup against New Zealand before being dropped from ODI and T20I squads.&nbsp;

He has been in England since June in his new avatar as commentator.

Pant tested positive for Covid and Saha is on a 10-day isolation after coming into contact with an infected staff member.

&nbsp;

Who will be the wicket keeper for Indian cricket team, now that Rishabh Pant has tested positive for Covid and reserve glove man Wriddhiman Saha is in self-isolation?

Who will be the wicket keeper for Indian cricket team, now that Rishabh Pant has tested positive for Covid and reserve glove man Wriddhiman Saha is in self-isolation? That's the question troubling Virat Kohli and Co ahead of India’s warm-up match against County XI from on July 20 in England. Dinesh Karthik, who is in England as a commentator, is happy to help. He hinted as much in a subtle tweet, with a picture of his cricketing kit and a hashtag, #justsaying. The Tamil Nadu-based player is the wicket keeper of IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders and the kit bag in the picture sports the KKR logo. The tweet has since gone viral. 😋 #justsaying pic.twitter.com/zX3ValErDc — DK (@DineshKarthik) July 15, 2021 × While he plays for Tamil Nadu and KKR in the IPL, Karthik is not in the national team for the past two years. His last game for India was the semi-final of the 2019 World Cup against New Zealand before being dropped from ODI and T20I squads. He has been in England since June in his new avatar as commentator. Pant tested positive for Covid and Saha is on a 10-day isolation after coming into contact with an infected staff member.

Cricket: Pant has Covid, Saha isolated, who will be India's wicket keeper? Dinesh Karthik is happy to help

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed the point system of the upcoming World Test Championship (2021-23 cycle) and also the bilateral series that will kick off next month.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-unveils-fixtures-and-points-system-for-upcoming-world-test-championship-398006" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC unveils fixtures and points system for upcoming World Test Championship</a>

India skipper Virat Kohli, England captain Joe Root, and World Test Champion-winning captain Kane Williamson have reacted to ICC's fixtures and points system for the WTC 2.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli reacted to the announcements and said: “It was great to have played the final of the ICC World Test Championship against New Zealand in what was a memorable contest. Not just the final, we saw the determination of players throughout the first edition of the championship.

“The following of cricket lovers too was great to see, and I am sure they will all be waiting eagerly for the second edition. We will regroup with new energy for the next cycle starting with our series against England, hoping to give our fans a lot to cheer about," said, Kohli, the captain of WTC runner-up India, as quoted by ICC.

England captain Joe Root acknowledged the interesting challenge they face against the previous edition's finalist India for a five-match Test series.&nbsp;

“We start our campaign in the second edition of the ICC World Test Championship against the finalists of last time, which is an interesting challenge straight away. India are a fine all-round side and it would be good to test them in our home conditions.

“We narrowly missed out on qualifying for the final last time and are looking to do better this time. Test cricket is a format we all want to excel in and with points at stake for each match, everyone has to be at their best all the time," Root said.

Defending World Test Champions New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson responded to the fixtures and the points system.&nbsp;

“It was obviously pretty special to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in Southampton last month and it’s exciting to now look ahead to the second edition.

“The WTC has certainly added more context and brought new meaning to Test cricket and it was awesome to see the interest that was generated around the Final against India. We know trying to defend the title will be a huge challenge, but our focus will be on making sure we prepare as well as we can for the tours ahead and trying to maintain our level of performance,” he said.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed the point system of the upcoming World Test Championship (2021-23 cycle) and also the bilateral series that will kick off next month.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed the point system of the upcoming World Test Championship (2021-23 cycle) and also the bilateral series that will kick off next month. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC unveils fixtures and points system for upcoming World Test Championship India skipper Virat Kohli, England captain Joe Root, and World Test Champion-winning captain Kane Williamson have reacted to ICC's fixtures and points system for the WTC 2. Indian skipper Virat Kohli reacted to the announcements and said: “It was great to have played the final of the ICC World Test Championship against New Zealand in what was a memorable contest. Not just the final, we saw the determination of players throughout the first edition of the championship. “The following of cricket lovers too was great to see, and I am sure they will all be waiting eagerly for the second edition. We will regroup with new energy for the next cycle starting with our series against England, hoping to give our fans a lot to cheer about," said, Kohli, the captain of WTC runner-up India, as quoted by ICC. England captain Joe Root acknowledged the interesting challenge they face against the previous edition's finalist India for a five-match Test series. “We start our campaign in the second edition of the ICC World Test Championship against the finalists of last time, which is an interesting challenge straight away. India are a fine all-round side and it would be good to test them in our home conditions. “We narrowly missed out on qualifying for the final last time and are looking to do better this time. Test cricket is a format we all want to excel in and with points at stake for each match, everyone has to be at their best all the time," Root said. Defending World Test Champions New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson responded to the fixtures and the points system. “It was obviously pretty special to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in Southampton last month and it’s exciting to now look ahead to the second edition. “The WTC has certainly added more context and brought new meaning to Test cricket and it was awesome to see the interest that was generated around the Final against India. We know trying to defend the title will be a huge challenge, but our focus will be on making sure we prepare as well as we can for the tours ahead and trying to maintain our level of performance,” he said.

Virat Kohli, Joe Root and Kane Williamson react to ICC's announcement on WTC 2

Brett Lee believes Australia should permit private proprietors to have a part in Big Bash League, the country's Twenty20 cricket tournament, which will be launched on a Sunday the following summer by the three-peat chasing Sydney Sixers.&nbsp;

The Sydney Sixers have won the last two Big Bash titles and their mission for a third sequential title will begin against the Melbourne Stars on December 5, falling between the Test against Afghanistan in Hobart and the first Ashes Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-devon-conway-sophie-ecclestone-named-icc-player-of-the-month-for-june-397567" hreflang="en">Cricket: Devon Conway, Sophie Ecclestone named ICC Player of the Month for June</a>

Brett Lee has called for more private ownership in the Big Bash League to help it arrive at a higher level and include major overseas players. Brett Lee referred to the chance of Indian skipper Virat Kohli playing for the Sydney Sixers, saying it would work on the scope of the game in the country.&nbsp;

“You could have co-ownership and Cricket Australia could retain 51% and still control things, but with that extra funding I think you could get some really high profile stars to come out,’’ he said

“I am talking about the Virat Kohli’s. Imagine Kohli playing for the Sixers and the crowds you would get. I am really impressed with the Big Bash. They have done a great job. But to reach the next level that is what you would have to do," he added.

Cricket Australia is likewise in talks to prepare for an overseas draft for next season. Nonetheless, it stays dependent upon the pandemic in the country. Brett Lee trusts the draft will be a positive development since Australia and the BBL have acquired it to have the world's best players.&nbsp;

“The draft is a good idea and I would love to see the best of the best come to Australia. We have earned that right. You need those big overseas players. The IPL has done well with only four overseas players so you are seeing the best of the best youngsters, but I think it really helps to mix with top overseas players,’’ he said.

The entire schedule of the BBL is underway and should be announced soon. Most of the Aussie stars are probably going to be available for the total season, which will go on till February.

Brett Lee believes Australia should permit private proprietors to have a part in Big Bash League, the country's Twenty20 cricket tournament, which will be launched on a Sunday the following summer by the three-peat chasing Sydney Sixers.

Brett Lee believes Australia should permit private proprietors to have a part in Big Bash League, the country's Twenty20 cricket tournament, which will be launched on a Sunday the following summer by the three-peat chasing Sydney Sixers. The Sydney Sixers have won the last two Big Bash titles and their mission for a third sequential title will begin against the Melbourne Stars on December 5, falling between the Test against Afghanistan in Hobart and the first Ashes Test. ALSO READ: Cricket: Devon Conway, Sophie Ecclestone named ICC Player of the Month for June Brett Lee has called for more private ownership in the Big Bash League to help it arrive at a higher level and include major overseas players. Brett Lee referred to the chance of Indian skipper Virat Kohli playing for the Sydney Sixers, saying it would work on the scope of the game in the country. “You could have co-ownership and Cricket Australia could retain 51% and still control things, but with that extra funding I think you could get some really high profile stars to come out,’’ he said “I am talking about the Virat Kohli’s. Imagine Kohli playing for the Sixers and the crowds you would get. I am really impressed with the Big Bash. They have done a great job. But to reach the next level that is what you would have to do," he added. Cricket Australia is likewise in talks to prepare for an overseas draft for next season. Nonetheless, it stays dependent upon the pandemic in the country. Brett Lee trusts the draft will be a positive development since Australia and the BBL have acquired it to have the world's best players. “The draft is a good idea and I would love to see the best of the best come to Australia. We have earned that right. You need those big overseas players. The IPL has done well with only four overseas players so you are seeing the best of the best youngsters, but I think it really helps to mix with top overseas players,’’ he said. The entire schedule of the BBL is underway and should be announced soon. Most of the Aussie stars are probably going to be available for the total season, which will go on till February.

Cricket: 'Imagine Virat Kohli playing': Brett Lee explains why Big Bash League needs more private ownership

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s daughter Vamika turned six months over the weekend and proud parents shared some pictures with her, ofcourse hiding her face from the camera.&nbsp;

Sharing photos on Instagram, Anushka Sharma wrote, “Her one smile can change our whole world around! I hope we can both live up to the love with which you look at us, little one. Happy 6 months to us three.”

In one photo, Anushka is seen lying down, with Vamika resting on her chest. In another photo, a smiling Virat is seen caught in a candid moment with his daughter.&nbsp;

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The glam couple have been successful in keeping their private lives away from the eyes of the paparazzi on most occasions. When their daughter was born, both even urged the media to not click their daughter’s pictures while they will give ample opportunity to them to be clicked.&nbsp;

They have not yet revealed the face of their daughter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/anushka-sharma">Anushka Sharma</a> gave birth to her daughter Vamika on January 11.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/gal-gadot-to-amber-heard-meet-the-new-celebrity-moms-395317" hreflang="en">Gal Gadot to Amber Heard: Meet the new celebrity moms</a>

Anushka, Virat and their daughter Vamika are currently in England.&nbsp;

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s daughter Vamika turned six months over the weekend and proud parents shared some pictures with her, ofcourse hiding her face from the camera.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s daughter Vamika turned six months over the weekend and proud parents shared some pictures with her, ofcourse hiding her face from the camera. Sharing photos on Instagram, Anushka Sharma wrote, “Her one smile can change our whole world around! I hope we can both live up to the love with which you look at us, little one. Happy 6 months to us three.” In one photo, Anushka is seen lying down, with Vamika resting on her chest. In another photo, a smiling Virat is seen caught in a candid moment with his daughter. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × The glam couple have been successful in keeping their private lives away from the eyes of the paparazzi on most occasions. When their daughter was born, both even urged the media to not click their daughter’s pictures while they will give ample opportunity to them to be clicked. They have not yet revealed the face of their daughter. Anushka Sharma gave birth to her daughter Vamika on January 11. Gal Gadot to Amber Heard: Meet the new celebrity moms Anushka, Virat and their daughter Vamika are currently in England.

Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli celebrate daughter Vamika with new pics as she turns six months

Shubman Gill's injury ahead of the England Test has sparked a massive debate as to who would replace the young gun and open for the Men in Blue in a career-defining series against Root and Co.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/happy-birthday-ms-dhoni-checkout-some-of-his-coolest-records-396418" hreflang="en">In pics: Happy birthday MS Dhoni! Check out some of his coolest records</a>

The Indian contingent is looking for either Prithvi Shaw or Devdutt Padikkal, who are currently in Sri Lanka prepping for the limited-over series, to fill the spot.&nbsp;

According to reports, the Indian team manager, who is in England at the moment, had asked the BCCI for two replacements for injured Gill. However, the selection committee of the Indian cricket board turned down the request.&nbsp;

"The team management has to be clear about its vision. The selectors have always heeded to the team management's demands when it came to composition of the squad. The team was picked in presence of captain Virat Kohli. The management needed to be clear about its plan when it came to how they wanted to use the players who were picked. Rahul was picked as an opener. If they had a change of plans, they should have communicated it clearly," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

Mayank Agarwal and Rohit Sharma are the only openers available for the team, whereas, Virat and Co. plan to use KL Rahul in the middle-order. The team management seems to be&nbsp;not confident that Abhimanyu Eswaran, who was considered as the back-up opener, could play against the likes of Anderson, Broad and Archer.&nbsp;

“Easwaran has been with the team since the home series against England in Feb-March. The team management needs to clarify why they aren't confident about using Easwaran. Only then a decision can be taken on whether a replacement needs to be sent," the official said.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill's injury ahead of the England Test has sparked a massive debate as to who would replace the young gun and open for the Men in Blue in a career-defining series against Root and Co.

Shubman Gill's injury ahead of the England Test has sparked a massive debate as to who would replace the young gun and open for the Men in Blue in a career-defining series against Root and Co. ALSO READ: In pics: Happy birthday MS Dhoni! Check out some of his coolest records The Indian contingent is looking for either Prithvi Shaw or Devdutt Padikkal, who are currently in Sri Lanka prepping for the limited-over series, to fill the spot. According to reports, the Indian team manager, who is in England at the moment, had asked the BCCI for two replacements for injured Gill. However, the selection committee of the Indian cricket board turned down the request. "The team management has to be clear about its vision. The selectors have always heeded to the team management's demands when it came to composition of the squad. The team was picked in presence of captain Virat Kohli. The management needed to be clear about its plan when it came to how they wanted to use the players who were picked. Rahul was picked as an opener. If they had a change of plans, they should have communicated it clearly," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Mayank Agarwal and Rohit Sharma are the only openers available for the team, whereas, Virat and Co. plan to use KL Rahul in the middle-order. The team management seems to be not confident that Abhimanyu Eswaran, who was considered as the back-up opener, could play against the likes of Anderson, Broad and Archer. “Easwaran has been with the team since the home series against England in Feb-March. The team management needs to clarify why they aren't confident about using Easwaran. Only then a decision can be taken on whether a replacement needs to be sent," the official said.

'The team was picked in presence of captain Virat Kohli', fumes BCCI - Reports

Virat Kohli is considered to be one of the most successful captains to lead the Men in Blue. The prolific batsman is India's most successful Test skipper after leading the team to 33 wins. However, with a win percentage of over 70 in ODIs and more than 65 per cent in T20Is, the Men in Blue still have failed to win an ICC Title under Kohli.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/calling-national-side-b-side-is-disrespectful-deep-dasgupta-on-arjuna-ranatungas-remarks-395994" hreflang="en">'Calling national side ‘B’ side is disrespectful': Deep Dasgupta on Arjuna Ranatunga's remarks</a>

With a recent loss against New Zealand in the World Test Championship final, the pressure on Kohli's captaincy has significantly risen. Ahead of the T20 World Cup, there have been debates of change in leadership for the Men in Blue. Now, Deep Dasgupta has given his take on the debate.&nbsp;

"I won't say 'high time' but I would say Rohit is definitely an option. I think a lot will depend on the T20 World Cup because as of now it's very difficult. You have just 3-4 months ahead of you, you will change the captaincy, which will mean that the team will have to align with the style of the new captain," Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;

"Even though Rohit has led the side before, there's a difference between a stand-in skipper and a full-time skipper because as the former you don't want to make too many changes. When you are a full-time skipper, obviously, you want to make changes because you want to run the team your way," Dasgupta said.

The 44-year-old cricketer-turned-commentator further stated: "I believe it will be unfair on Rohit, the team, and also Virat now just 3-4 months before [the World Cup]. But I think the T20 World Cup will be very, very important in that aspect, because if something goes wrong there then Rohit is one of the main contenders for that spot."

Virat Kohli is considered to be one of the most successful captains to lead the Men in Blue. The prolific batsman is India's most successful Test skipper after leading the team to 33 wins.

Virat Kohli is considered to be one of the most successful captains to lead the Men in Blue. The prolific batsman is India's most successful Test skipper after leading the team to 33 wins. However, with a win percentage of over 70 in ODIs and more than 65 per cent in T20Is, the Men in Blue still have failed to win an ICC Title under Kohli. ALSO READ: 'Calling national side ‘B’ side is disrespectful': Deep Dasgupta on Arjuna Ranatunga's remarks With a recent loss against New Zealand in the World Test Championship final, the pressure on Kohli's captaincy has significantly risen. Ahead of the T20 World Cup, there have been debates of change in leadership for the Men in Blue. Now, Deep Dasgupta has given his take on the debate. "I won't say 'high time' but I would say Rohit is definitely an option. I think a lot will depend on the T20 World Cup because as of now it's very difficult. You have just 3-4 months ahead of you, you will change the captaincy, which will mean that the team will have to align with the style of the new captain," Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel. "Even though Rohit has led the side before, there's a difference between a stand-in skipper and a full-time skipper because as the former you don't want to make too many changes. When you are a full-time skipper, obviously, you want to make changes because you want to run the team your way," Dasgupta said. The 44-year-old cricketer-turned-commentator further stated: "I believe it will be unfair on Rohit, the team, and also Virat now just 3-4 months before [the World Cup]. But I think the T20 World Cup will be very, very important in that aspect, because if something goes wrong there then Rohit is one of the main contenders for that spot."

'I think a lot will depend on T20 World Cup': Deep Dasgupta on captaincy debate

Several reports on Saturday suggested that Team India are looking to call Prithvi Shaw from Sri Lanka in order to replace injured Shubman Gill for the upcoming England Test series. However, World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev is not in favour of this decision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-captain-mithali-raj-shatters-huge-batting-record-bcci-reacts-395742" hreflang="en">India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts</a>

The legendary all-rounder feels that the current India squad in England already have the likes of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul and calling up a player, who is not in the squad will not reflect nicely on the management's part and will be an 'insult' to the players who are already a part of the tour.&nbsp;

"I don't think there is any need for it. There should be some respect for the selectors too. They have picked a team and I'm sure it wouldn't have happened without their (Shastri and Kohli) consultation. I mean, you have two such big opening batsmen in KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Do you really need a third option? I don't think it's right," Kapil said on the 'Wah Cricket' show on ABP News.

"I'm not convinced with this theory. The team that they've picked already has openers so I think they should be the ones to play. Otherwise, it's insulting for the players who are already in the team."

"I want that the captain and the management should have a say, but not at the expense of over-ruling the selectors and say that 'these are the players we need'. In that case, we don't even need selectors. I am feeling a bit odd knowing that something like this has happened, because if it has, it demeans the selectors and their role," he said.

"Only Virat and Ravi can say that. I feel that this is a wrong set-up to enter. The players you have backed, you cannot demean them. They are big players and I wouldn't want something like this to happen. No need for any unnecessary controversy."

Several reports on Saturday suggested that Team India are looking to call Prithvi Shaw from Sri Lanka in order to replace injured Shubman Gill for the upcoming England Test series.

Several reports on Saturday suggested that Team India are looking to call Prithvi Shaw from Sri Lanka in order to replace injured Shubman Gill for the upcoming England Test series. However, World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev is not in favour of this decision. ALSO READ: India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts The legendary all-rounder feels that the current India squad in England already have the likes of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul and calling up a player, who is not in the squad will not reflect nicely on the management's part and will be an 'insult' to the players who are already a part of the tour. "I don't think there is any need for it. There should be some respect for the selectors too. They have picked a team and I'm sure it wouldn't have happened without their (Shastri and Kohli) consultation. I mean, you have two such big opening batsmen in KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Do you really need a third option? I don't think it's right," Kapil said on the 'Wah Cricket' show on ABP News. "I'm not convinced with this theory. The team that they've picked already has openers so I think they should be the ones to play. Otherwise, it's insulting for the players who are already in the team." "I want that the captain and the management should have a say, but not at the expense of over-ruling the selectors and say that 'these are the players we need'. In that case, we don't even need selectors. I am feeling a bit odd knowing that something like this has happened, because if it has, it demeans the selectors and their role," he said. "Only Virat and Ravi can say that. I feel that this is a wrong set-up to enter. The players you have backed, you cannot demean them. They are big players and I wouldn't want something like this to happen. No need for any unnecessary controversy."

'I'm not convinced with this theory': Kapil Dev not in favour of additions in squads

Captain Virat Kohli may at times be at the eye of the tempest, yet there isn't anything detracting from the way that he is a marvelous skipper. Under him, the Indian cricket team has changed itself as far as fitness and battling a fight.&nbsp;

No target is viewed as large enough to pursue or sufficiently enough to defend, in light of the fact that Virat Kohli has imparted a particularly sure self-faith in this team. In Tests, Virat Kohli is India's most successful captain, having driven the team in 61 matches, out of which he's won 33.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-its-time-that-rest-and-rotation-policy-is-put-behind-us-says-joe-root-395292" hreflang="en">Cricket: It’s time that ‘rest and rotation policy’ is put behind us, says Joe Root</a>

Virat Kohli's captaincy has numerous takers in the group and one of them is KL Rahul. He has been an ally of the current skipper – his batting and captaincy the same – and never avoids giving his opinion. In an interaction with Forbes India, KL Rahul said something regarding Virat Kohli's captaincy, clarifying what recognizes him from the rest. MS&nbsp;Dhoni additionally guaranteed smooth progress in administration as Virat Kohli assumed control over the reins from him. KL Rahul featured that the current Indian captain is altogether different from MS Dhoni and is energetic inside the field.&nbsp;

"Playing with and under Virat Kohli, he is a different sort of captain. He is a very passionate individual. He operates at 200. 100 is the best you possibly can be at, but he operates at 200. He has the unbelievable ability to carry the other 10 guys and pull them from 100 to 200."

Virat Kohli may draw fire from the cricket fans for not winning an ICC trophy yet, however, the 32-year-old possesses all genes of a successful captain. He has driven India in 95 ODIs, winning 65 of them, which demonstrates a success level of 70.43. In T20Is, he has lead Team India multiple times and arose victor on 27 events – a success level of 65.11. Under him, Team India has completed at the highest point of the ICC rankings for five straight years and furthermore accomplished a Test series win in Australia following 71 monotonous years.&nbsp;

The Delhi-conceived has influenced Indian cricket essentially, as a batsman as well as a skipper. Under Virat Kohli, India have proclaimed a remarkable cartel of fast bowlers and have ostensibly the best fast-bowling attack in the world.

Captain Virat Kohli may at times be at the eye of the tempest, yet there isn't anything detracting from the way that he is a marvelous skipper. Under him, the Indian cricket team has changed itself as far as fitness and battling a fight.

Captain Virat Kohli may at times be at the eye of the tempest, yet there isn't anything detracting from the way that he is a marvelous skipper. Under him, the Indian cricket team has changed itself as far as fitness and battling a fight. No target is viewed as large enough to pursue or sufficiently enough to defend, in light of the fact that Virat Kohli has imparted a particularly sure self-faith in this team. In Tests, Virat Kohli is India's most successful captain, having driven the team in 61 matches, out of which he's won 33. ALSO READ: Cricket: It’s time that ‘rest and rotation policy’ is put behind us, says Joe Root Virat Kohli's captaincy has numerous takers in the group and one of them is KL Rahul. He has been an ally of the current skipper – his batting and captaincy the same – and never avoids giving his opinion. In an interaction with Forbes India, KL Rahul said something regarding Virat Kohli's captaincy, clarifying what recognizes him from the rest. MS Dhoni additionally guaranteed smooth progress in administration as Virat Kohli assumed control over the reins from him. KL Rahul featured that the current Indian captain is altogether different from MS Dhoni and is energetic inside the field. "Playing with and under Virat Kohli, he is a different sort of captain. He is a very passionate individual. He operates at 200. 100 is the best you possibly can be at, but he operates at 200. He has the unbelievable ability to carry the other 10 guys and pull them from 100 to 200." Virat Kohli may draw fire from the cricket fans for not winning an ICC trophy yet, however, the 32-year-old possesses all genes of a successful captain. He has driven India in 95 ODIs, winning 65 of them, which demonstrates a success level of 70.43. In T20Is, he has lead Team India multiple times and arose victor on 27 events – a success level of 65.11. Under him, Team India has completed at the highest point of the ICC rankings for five straight years and furthermore accomplished a Test series win in Australia following 71 monotonous years. The Delhi-conceived has influenced Indian cricket essentially, as a batsman as well as a skipper. Under Virat Kohli, India have proclaimed a remarkable cartel of fast bowlers and have ostensibly the best fast-bowling attack in the world.

Cricket: 100 is the best you can be at but he operates at 200: KL Rahul lauds 'captain' Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli is considered to be one of the most successful captains to lead the Men in Blue. The prolific batsman is India's most successful Test skipper after leading the team to 33 wins. However, with a win percentage of over 70 in ODIs and more than 65 per cent in T20Is, the Men in Blue still have failed to win an ICC Title under Kohli.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankan-cricket-board-reacts-to-arjuna-ranatungas-second-string-team-remarks-395415" hreflang="en">Sri Lankan cricket board reacts to Arjuna Ranatunga's 'second string team' remarks</a>

With a recent loss against New Zealand in the World Test Championship final, the pressure on Kohli's captaincy has significantly risen. Former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim feels that upcoming ICC tournaments this year could make or break Kohli's career as a captain.

"The T20 World Cup that is going to be played later this year will be extremely crucial for Virat Kohli's captaincy career. The pressure is piling on Virat and he knows that he hasn't won an ICC trophy yet. So, his aim would be for India to win the T20 World Cup," Karim told India News Sports.

"If India can lift the trophy, then I believe Kohli will have that breathing space. Maybe he can take stock of the situation then and decide how long he wants to captain the team. His name in coming up in the list of big captains but an ICC title is far from him."

"In all three formats, you have World Championships, and all formats require different mindset, different resources, different thinking. That's why I feel that if one captain is leading, it will be too much to expect from him as well. With every format, you need a fresh set of ideas and that is why I feel split captaincy should be the way forward," he said.

Virat Kohli is considered to be one of the most successful captains to lead the Men in Blue. The prolific batsman is India's most successful Test skipper after leading the team to 33 wins. However, with a win percentage of over 70 in ODIs and more than 65 per cent in T20Is, the Men in Blue still have failed to win an ICC Title under Kohli. ALSO READ: Sri Lankan cricket board reacts to Arjuna Ranatunga's 'second string team' remarks With a recent loss against New Zealand in the World Test Championship final, the pressure on Kohli's captaincy has significantly risen. Former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim feels that upcoming ICC tournaments this year could make or break Kohli's career as a captain. "The T20 World Cup that is going to be played later this year will be extremely crucial for Virat Kohli's captaincy career. The pressure is piling on Virat and he knows that he hasn't won an ICC trophy yet. So, his aim would be for India to win the T20 World Cup," Karim told India News Sports. "If India can lift the trophy, then I believe Kohli will have that breathing space. Maybe he can take stock of the situation then and decide how long he wants to captain the team. His name in coming up in the list of big captains but an ICC title is far from him." "In all three formats, you have World Championships, and all formats require different mindset, different resources, different thinking. That's why I feel that if one captain is leading, it will be too much to expect from him as well. With every format, you need a fresh set of ideas and that is why I feel split captaincy should be the way forward," he said.

'T20 World Cup will be extremely crucial for Virat Kohli's captaincy career', says Saba Karim

Global star Priyanka Chopra has now landed on the Hopper Instagram Richlist this year. She is on the 27th spot with 64 million followers on Instagram.

The actress is reportedly getting $403,000 (Rs 3 crore approx) for every promotional post she makes on the photo sharing app.&nbsp;

The Hopper Instagram Richlist is released annually and ranks celebs based on how much they charge for each of their promoted posts on Instagram. Last year, Priyanka was on the 19th spot with $271,000 earned per post. While her earnings per post have increased significantly, those of others have seen a much higher increase.

The only other Indian on the top 30 list is cricketer Virat Kohli. He is at number 19 with 125 million followers getting him $680,000 (Rs 5 crore approx) per post.

Topping the list is football star Cristiano Ronaldo once again. He has 295 million followers and earns $1,604,000 (Rs 11 crore) per post. Others on the list include Dwayne Johnson, Ariana Grande, Kylie Jenner and Taylor Swift.

Global star Priyanka Chopra has now landed on the Hopper Instagram Richlist this year. She is on the 27th spot with 64 million followers on Instagram. The actress is reportedly getting $403,000 (Rs 3 crore approx) for every promotional post she makes on the photo sharing app.

Global star Priyanka Chopra has now landed on the Hopper Instagram Richlist this year. She is on the 27th spot with 64 million followers on Instagram. The actress is reportedly getting $403,000 (Rs 3 crore approx) for every promotional post she makes on the photo sharing app. The Hopper Instagram Richlist is released annually and ranks celebs based on how much they charge for each of their promoted posts on Instagram. Last year, Priyanka was on the 19th spot with $271,000 earned per post. While her earnings per post have increased significantly, those of others have seen a much higher increase. The only other Indian on the top 30 list is cricketer Virat Kohli. He is at number 19 with 125 million followers getting him $680,000 (Rs 5 crore approx) per post. Topping the list is football star Cristiano Ronaldo once again. He has 295 million followers and earns $1,604,000 (Rs 11 crore) per post. Others on the list include Dwayne Johnson, Ariana Grande, Kylie Jenner and Taylor Swift.

Priyanka Chopra, Virat Kohli on Instagram rich list 2021

Kyle Jamieson has opened up on his now popular interaction with Virat Kohli, discrediting reports that the Indian captain asked him to bowl with the Dukes ball during IPL 2021.&nbsp;

The story got features in the development to the World Test Championship last, with Dan Christian specifying how Virat Kohli had presumptuously asked Kyle Jamieson to bowl him with the Dukes ball in the nets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mens-t20-world-cup-2021-moves-to-uae-and-oman-confirms-icc-394717" hreflang="en">Cricket: Men's T20 World Cup 2021 moves to UAE and Oman, confirms ICC</a>

However, Kyle Jamieson as of late put any misinformation to rest. Addressing Sporting News, he clarified how the interaction wasn't however fascinating as it might have been described. He said: “No, it wasn’t so much him asking. I think it was Dan just sort of adding some stuff for a good story. We were just talking about it at the start of the IPL with the cricket coming up with our UK tour and theirs as well and I mentioned that I had some Dukes balls, he had some Dukes balls as well.”

He dismissed Virat Kohli in the two innings at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, with Kyle Jamieson letting it out was engaging to face his IPL captain.

“Yeah, it was good, obviously, just being in the change room with him for six or so weeks was pretty cool. He's a world-class player and just to spend time observing how he operates and how he goes about things both on and off the field was pretty cool and you know it's nice just to be able to be friendly out in the middle even just having a bit of a laugh and a joke, while the game was going on."

While many feel Kyle Jamieson's time at RCB assisted him with improving Virat Kohli, the Kiwi pacer wasn't too certain whether that was the situation: “There wasn't too much specificity around in there having a game but yeah just nice to obviously have that relationship with someone I guess of his stature in the game. I don't know if that helped specifically around different queues and stuff but wasn't something that I necessarily contemplated."

"I think anytime you get to spend time with different world-class guys you sort of grow in confidence, you learn and become a bit more, I guess, comfortable, we come up against different guys so yeah, certainly, I guess from that perspective," he added.

Kyle Jamieson has opened up on his now popular interaction with Virat Kohli, discrediting reports that the Indian captain asked him to bowl with the Dukes ball during IPL 2021.

Kyle Jamieson has opened up on his now popular interaction with Virat Kohli, discrediting reports that the Indian captain asked him to bowl with the Dukes ball during IPL 2021. The story got features in the development to the World Test Championship last, with Dan Christian specifying how Virat Kohli had presumptuously asked Kyle Jamieson to bowl him with the Dukes ball in the nets. ALSO READ: Cricket: Men's T20 World Cup 2021 moves to UAE and Oman, confirms ICC However, Kyle Jamieson as of late put any misinformation to rest. Addressing Sporting News, he clarified how the interaction wasn't however fascinating as it might have been described. He said: “No, it wasn’t so much him asking. I think it was Dan just sort of adding some stuff for a good story. We were just talking about it at the start of the IPL with the cricket coming up with our UK tour and theirs as well and I mentioned that I had some Dukes balls, he had some Dukes balls as well.” He dismissed Virat Kohli in the two innings at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, with Kyle Jamieson letting it out was engaging to face his IPL captain. “Yeah, it was good, obviously, just being in the change room with him for six or so weeks was pretty cool. He's a world-class player and just to spend time observing how he operates and how he goes about things both on and off the field was pretty cool and you know it's nice just to be able to be friendly out in the middle even just having a bit of a laugh and a joke, while the game was going on." While many feel Kyle Jamieson's time at RCB assisted him with improving Virat Kohli, the Kiwi pacer wasn't too certain whether that was the situation: “There wasn't too much specificity around in there having a game but yeah just nice to obviously have that relationship with someone I guess of his stature in the game. I don't know if that helped specifically around different queues and stuff but wasn't something that I necessarily contemplated." "I think anytime you get to spend time with different world-class guys you sort of grow in confidence, you learn and become a bit more, I guess, comfortable, we come up against different guys so yeah, certainly, I guess from that perspective," he added.

Cricket: Kyle Jamieson reacts to famous incident involving him and Virat Kohli during IPL

Skipper Virat Kohli has been regarded as the best Test captain for India. The prolific skipper has led the Men in Blue in some monumental wins. Kohli is India's most-capped Test captain (61) and has led the team to 33 wins in the longest format.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-the-sri-lanka-tour-is-crucial-for-youngsters-says-rahul-dravid-394459" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'The Sri Lanka tour is crucial for youngsters', says Rahul Dravid</a>

However, the loss against New Zealand in the World Test Championship final has fueled speculations over Kohli's captaincy. However, former Pakistan wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal backed the Indian skipper and called him a 'fantastic captain'.&nbsp;

“Virat Kohli is a big player and a fantastic captain. He is aggressive and very emotional. Any captain who has come in has only taken Indian cricket forward. It started with Sourav Ganguly, then Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni took over. Yes, everyone has complained that Virat Kohli hasn’t won any ICC trophy. But, apart from that, he has won almost everything. India have won so many series’ under Virat Kohli," Akmal said during a discussion on ‘My Master Cricket Coach’ YouTube channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-it-was-not-an-easy-decision-sourav-ganguly-on-shifting-t20-world-cup-to-uae-394532" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'It was not an easy decision': Sourav Ganguly on shifting T20 World Cup to UAE</a>

“He has been a bit unlucky, but I have no doubt over his captaincy credentials. He is a great captain and match-winner,” he added.

He went on to add that India not winning ICC events is not completely Kohli's fault.&nbsp;

“It (India not winning ICC events) is not completely Virat Kohli’s fault. What is the guarantee that another captain can come in and win India an ICC trophy? As a team, they have to analyze why they are not winning the big events. They reach the last stages but fail at the final hurdle. It will be unfair to blame only Virat Kohli. According to me, as long as he feels that he can do the job, he should continue,” said Akmal.

Skipper Virat Kohli has been regarded as the best Test captain for India. The prolific skipper has led the Men in Blue in some monumental wins. Kohli is India's most-capped Test captain (61) and has led the team to 33 wins in the longest format.

Skipper Virat Kohli has been regarded as the best Test captain for India. The prolific skipper has led the Men in Blue in some monumental wins. Kohli is India's most-capped Test captain (61) and has led the team to 33 wins in the longest format. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'The Sri Lanka tour is crucial for youngsters', says Rahul Dravid However, the loss against New Zealand in the World Test Championship final has fueled speculations over Kohli's captaincy. However, former Pakistan wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal backed the Indian skipper and called him a 'fantastic captain'. “Virat Kohli is a big player and a fantastic captain. He is aggressive and very emotional. Any captain who has come in has only taken Indian cricket forward. It started with Sourav Ganguly, then Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni took over. Yes, everyone has complained that Virat Kohli hasn’t won any ICC trophy. But, apart from that, he has won almost everything. India have won so many series’ under Virat Kohli," Akmal said during a discussion on ‘My Master Cricket Coach’ YouTube channel. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'It was not an easy decision': Sourav Ganguly on shifting T20 World Cup to UAE “He has been a bit unlucky, but I have no doubt over his captaincy credentials. He is a great captain and match-winner,” he added. He went on to add that India not winning ICC events is not completely Kohli's fault. “It (India not winning ICC events) is not completely Virat Kohli’s fault. What is the guarantee that another captain can come in and win India an ICC trophy? As a team, they have to analyze why they are not winning the big events. They reach the last stages but fail at the final hurdle. It will be unfair to blame only Virat Kohli. According to me, as long as he feels that he can do the job, he should continue,” said Akmal.

Cricket- 'India not winning ICC events is not completely Virat Kohli’s fault': Kamran Akmal

After facing a defeat in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, Team India will now take on England in a five-match Test series. However, the Indian cricketing great Sunil Gavaskar feels that Virat and Co. should not be worried about the series against England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-we-known-each-other-for-a-long-time-kane-williamson-on-his-friendship-with-virat-kohli-394501" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'We known each other for a long time': Kane Williamson on his friendship with Virat Kohli</a>

In his column in The Telegraph, Gavaskar wrote that the Indian team should not be worried about the five-match series as the conditions will be more favourable for batting.&nbsp;

"Indian batsmen need not worry about the series against England in August-September as the sun will be out by then and the pitches will be drier and with the greatest of respect, if Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad don't get wickets in their first spell, they struggle in their next spells," wrote Gavaskar.

"The English summer has begun with disappointment [for India] but when disappointment fuels determination then fortunes can be turned and that's the attitude this talented team need to make this a truly Indian summer," he remarked.

The five-match red-ball series will kick off on August 4. The last time Men in Blue played a Test series in English conditions, they suffered a 4-1 loss (in 2017).

The forthcoming five Tests against England will give Team India ostensibly the best chance to put any demons to rest in England. A determined series win would not just recuperate the wounds of the previous few years yet, in addition, clear any questions about the team's future possibilities. &nbsp;

After facing a defeat in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, Team India will now take on England in a five-match Test series. However, the Indian cricketing great Sunil Gavaskar feels that Virat and Co.

After facing a defeat in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, Team India will now take on England in a five-match Test series. However, the Indian cricketing great Sunil Gavaskar feels that Virat and Co. should not be worried about the series against England. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'We known each other for a long time': Kane Williamson on his friendship with Virat Kohli In his column in The Telegraph, Gavaskar wrote that the Indian team should not be worried about the five-match series as the conditions will be more favourable for batting. "Indian batsmen need not worry about the series against England in August-September as the sun will be out by then and the pitches will be drier and with the greatest of respect, if Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad don't get wickets in their first spell, they struggle in their next spells," wrote Gavaskar. "The English summer has begun with disappointment [for India] but when disappointment fuels determination then fortunes can be turned and that's the attitude this talented team need to make this a truly Indian summer," he remarked. The five-match red-ball series will kick off on August 4. The last time Men in Blue played a Test series in English conditions, they suffered a 4-1 loss (in 2017). The forthcoming five Tests against England will give Team India ostensibly the best chance to put any demons to rest in England. A determined series win would not just recuperate the wounds of the previous few years yet, in addition, clear any questions about the team's future possibilities.

Cricket- 'Indian batsmen need not worry about the series against England': Sunil Gavaskar

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson opened up on his friendship with Virat Kohli, saying the two skippers have known each other for quite a while and they are mates. Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson are known to share a common regard for one another, and surprisingly after India's loss in the World Test Championship final, their fellowship stood apart as the two commanders shared a warm embrace after a wild battle on the field.&nbsp;

Prominently, both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson had met without precedent for the 2008 ICC U-19 World Cup competition in Malaysia where the last had crushed the Kiwis in the elimination round.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-pace-bowling-attack-is-best-in-the-world-says-shane-jurgensen-394409" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand's pace bowling attack is best in the world, says Shane Jurgensen</a>

Their careers have evolved parallelly. Talking to India Today, Kane Willaimson said:&nbsp;"It was a great moment, you know, toe to toe, and obviously, Virat and I have known each other for a long time and we're mates. And that's always a great part of the sport as well that over the years you get the opportunity to meet people all around the world, form these different friendships through these different experiences you have had either together or against each other and often find a bit of common ground and share a few common interests and that's quite special."

Kane Williamson, who played ostensibly the main hand in his side's 8-wicket prevail upon India, likewise praised his phenomenal adversaries for how they held themselves in a loss. He said that the Indian players' viewpoint is just about as uncommon as their ability.&nbsp;

"Yeah, I mean, that's perhaps another thing - going into a final, there's emotion, both teams are pushing and want to get across the line and you have a fantastic side like India but also the way they are playing their cricket. I'm sure that's something the public can relate to, in India and around the world. Coming off second in this one and, you know, the way they hold themselves as the ambassadors of the game is I think, an equally special thing to the talents that they bring."

Kane Williamson additionally talked about his team's blissful celebrations subsequent to winning the Test mace. The skipper said he was attempting to keep the celebrations controlled however his teammates wouldn't pay attention to him at that point. He conceded that the response was for the most part a development of New Zealand's some nearby shave routs in the new past.&nbsp;

"I was trying to tell the guys to just keep calm but they weren't listening to me much. There was a lot of elation, I suppose, and there was a whole mix of feelings and emotions. You mentioned a number of our past experiences and there were a number of guys involved in all of those and there were some that weren't and so I think everyone felt a little bit different," he said.

"For me, being involved with the team as a leader the focus is often on but the team as a whole and perhaps the bigger picture on how it's tracking and trying to operate in that space as well as you can. The rewards that come or don't, for me, are by-products of that," he concluded.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson opened up on his friendship with Virat Kohli, saying the two skippers have known each other for quite a while and they are mates.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson opened up on his friendship with Virat Kohli, saying the two skippers have known each other for quite a while and they are mates. Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson are known to share a common regard for one another, and surprisingly after India's loss in the World Test Championship final, their fellowship stood apart as the two commanders shared a warm embrace after a wild battle on the field. Prominently, both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson had met without precedent for the 2008 ICC U-19 World Cup competition in Malaysia where the last had crushed the Kiwis in the elimination round. ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand's pace bowling attack is best in the world, says Shane Jurgensen Their careers have evolved parallelly. Talking to India Today, Kane Willaimson said: "It was a great moment, you know, toe to toe, and obviously, Virat and I have known each other for a long time and we're mates. And that's always a great part of the sport as well that over the years you get the opportunity to meet people all around the world, form these different friendships through these different experiences you have had either together or against each other and often find a bit of common ground and share a few common interests and that's quite special." Kane Williamson, who played ostensibly the main hand in his side's 8-wicket prevail upon India, likewise praised his phenomenal adversaries for how they held themselves in a loss. He said that the Indian players' viewpoint is just about as uncommon as their ability. "Yeah, I mean, that's perhaps another thing - going into a final, there's emotion, both teams are pushing and want to get across the line and you have a fantastic side like India but also the way they are playing their cricket. I'm sure that's something the public can relate to, in India and around the world. Coming off second in this one and, you know, the way they hold themselves as the ambassadors of the game is I think, an equally special thing to the talents that they bring." Kane Williamson additionally talked about his team's blissful celebrations subsequent to winning the Test mace. The skipper said he was attempting to keep the celebrations controlled however his teammates wouldn't pay attention to him at that point. He conceded that the response was for the most part a development of New Zealand's some nearby shave routs in the new past. "I was trying to tell the guys to just keep calm but they weren't listening to me much. There was a lot of elation, I suppose, and there was a whole mix of feelings and emotions. You mentioned a number of our past experiences and there were a number of guys involved in all of those and there were some that weren't and so I think everyone felt a little bit different," he said. "For me, being involved with the team as a leader the focus is often on but the team as a whole and perhaps the bigger picture on how it's tracking and trying to operate in that space as well as you can. The rewards that come or don't, for me, are by-products of that," he concluded.

Cricket: 'We known each other for a long time': Kane Williamson on his friendship with Virat Kohli

Team India has a respectable break ahead of the five-Test match series against England. Following their loss to New Zealand in the last of the World Test Championship, India have the opportunity to adjust and chip away at the spaces that let them down in Southampton against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Sunil Gavaskar has proposed an adjustment of the opening combination for the Test series against England. He believes that Mayank Agarwal ought to get approval instead of Shubman Gill to open the innings.&nbsp;

India's last three tours through England show that Team India is not very comfortable against the moving Dukes ball in the UK. They last won a Test series in England in 2007 under Rahul Dravid, however have since lost 0-4, 1-3, 1-4 in resulting visits in 2011, 2014, and 2018 separately. '

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-tim-paine-eats-humble-pie-after-predicting-indias-easy-win-in-wtc-final-394089" hreflang="en">Cricket: Tim Paine eats 'humble pie' after predicting India's easy win in WTC Final</a>

In a conversation with SportsTak, Sunil Gavaskar feels it can begin by reshuffling India's opening blend: "Mayank Agarwal has done a really good job for India, twice he's scored a double century opening the innings. It’s a good thing that the BCCI and Jay Shah have taken the initiative to conduct some warm-up matches before the England Tests so there you can decide who between Gill and Agarwal can open for India."

"Make them open the innings together because Rohit Sharma is a certainty and he can be rested for a game. That would give you an idea of who has the better technique for English conditions. And then based on that, they can make a decision whether they want to play Mayank Agarwal or Shubman Gill."

According to him, Shubman Gill's concern lies in his absence of footwork, and Sunil Gavaskar figures it is something that was featured in the WTC final in England however even at home when the batsman's runs evaporated.&nbsp;

"Gill's footwork isn't much. He only goes in front and that's not the case with him only in England. Even in the series in India, there too, he had just one movement which is forward. There's no effort to go on the back foot and that is why he plays across the line" - he said.

"Because once your feet go forward, with that balance, it's tough to get back on the backfoot if the length is slightly short, is tough. So he needs to work hard, there's no doubt about his talent. But if he works a bit hard, he will get the reward."

Mayank Agarwal has remained uninvolved subsequent to encountering two bad games in Australia and since Shubman Gill had a rich series down under. Mayank Agarwal averages a solid 45.74 in 14 Tests by scoring 1052 runs, scoring three centuries. With the BCCI a few warm-up games before the series, the management could offer Mayank Agarwal a few chances in those prior to choosing if he could turn into Shubman Gill's substitution at the top.

Team India has a respectable break ahead of the five-Test match series against England. Following their loss to New Zealand in the last of the World Test Championship, India have the opportunity to adjust and chip away at the spaces that let them down in Southampton against New Zealand.

Team India has a respectable break ahead of the five-Test match series against England. Following their loss to New Zealand in the last of the World Test Championship, India have the opportunity to adjust and chip away at the spaces that let them down in Southampton against New Zealand. Sunil Gavaskar has proposed an adjustment of the opening combination for the Test series against England. He believes that Mayank Agarwal ought to get approval instead of Shubman Gill to open the innings. India's last three tours through England show that Team India is not very comfortable against the moving Dukes ball in the UK. They last won a Test series in England in 2007 under Rahul Dravid, however have since lost 0-4, 1-3, 1-4 in resulting visits in 2011, 2014, and 2018 separately. ' ALSO READ: Cricket: Tim Paine eats 'humble pie' after predicting India's easy win in WTC Final In a conversation with SportsTak, Sunil Gavaskar feels it can begin by reshuffling India's opening blend: "Mayank Agarwal has done a really good job for India, twice he's scored a double century opening the innings. It’s a good thing that the BCCI and Jay Shah have taken the initiative to conduct some warm-up matches before the England Tests so there you can decide who between Gill and Agarwal can open for India." "Make them open the innings together because Rohit Sharma is a certainty and he can be rested for a game. That would give you an idea of who has the better technique for English conditions. And then based on that, they can make a decision whether they want to play Mayank Agarwal or Shubman Gill." According to him, Shubman Gill's concern lies in his absence of footwork, and Sunil Gavaskar figures it is something that was featured in the WTC final in England however even at home when the batsman's runs evaporated. "Gill's footwork isn't much. He only goes in front and that's not the case with him only in England. Even in the series in India, there too, he had just one movement which is forward. There's no effort to go on the back foot and that is why he plays across the line" - he said. "Because once your feet go forward, with that balance, it's tough to get back on the backfoot if the length is slightly short, is tough. So he needs to work hard, there's no doubt about his talent. But if he works a bit hard, he will get the reward." Mayank Agarwal has remained uninvolved subsequent to encountering two bad games in Australia and since Shubman Gill had a rich series down under. Mayank Agarwal averages a solid 45.74 in 14 Tests by scoring 1052 runs, scoring three centuries. With the BCCI a few warm-up games before the series, the management could offer Mayank Agarwal a few chances in those prior to choosing if he could turn into Shubman Gill's substitution at the top.

Cricket: Sunil Gavaskar suggests a potential change for India ahead of England Tests

Sunil Gavaskar hammered Team India's batting execution in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, noticing that Men in Blue scarcely showed any persistence. He&nbsp;likewise recommended that a lot of white-ball cricket has restrained India's capacity as a batting unit.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli and his men quietly gave up on the last day of the WTC final, in what should be the greatest day for batting with brilliant daylight around.&nbsp;

Writing in his segment in The Telegraph, Sunil Gavaskar was unnerved with India's batting execution, as they played some forgettable shots, which saw them packaged out for 170 in the subsequent innings. He wrote:&nbsp;"The conditions on the final day were bright, and the sun was out in all its glory, but the Indians, so used to the white-ball game, just didn't show the patience required in a Test match and were instrumental in their own downfall with some forgettable shots."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-will-encourage-shafali-verma-to-enjoy-her-batting-says-mithali-raj-394231" hreflang="en">Cricket: Will encourage Shafali Verma to enjoy her batting, says Mithali Raj</a>

India will be quick to enhance their weaknesses when they take on England in a five-match Test series beginning in August.&nbsp;

After the loss in the WTC final, Virat Kohli expressed that his team's batsmen didn't squeeze the New Zealand bowlers, particularly on Kyle Jamieson, permitting him to bowl in comparable regions for extensive stretches.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Sunil Gavaskar recommended that to be effective in attempting conditions; one necessity to bat in the manner in which one typically does while being patient and making the right shot choice. As per him, Kane Williamson exemplified that approach consummately.&nbsp;

"What patience and good shot selection can do in trying conditions was seen in the batting of New Zealand captain Kane Williamson in both innings. He held the New Zealand innings together and took his team home. What he also showed is that the thinking that a batsman needs to go out and start playing shots on this kind of pitch and in conditions favoring the bowler is just negative thinking. He batted the way he knows how to, and that's what every batsman should do" - Sunil Gavaskar composed.&nbsp;

In spite of the inadequacies, Sunil Gavaskar is certain that Team India will perform better in the Test series against England, as conditions will be significantly greater for batting in August. India will trust that their batting unit can concoct better exhibitions in the series against England.

Sunil Gavaskar hammered Team India's batting execution in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, noticing that Men in Blue scarcely showed any persistence.

Sunil Gavaskar hammered Team India's batting execution in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, noticing that Men in Blue scarcely showed any persistence. He likewise recommended that a lot of white-ball cricket has restrained India's capacity as a batting unit. Virat Kohli and his men quietly gave up on the last day of the WTC final, in what should be the greatest day for batting with brilliant daylight around. Writing in his segment in The Telegraph, Sunil Gavaskar was unnerved with India's batting execution, as they played some forgettable shots, which saw them packaged out for 170 in the subsequent innings. He wrote: "The conditions on the final day were bright, and the sun was out in all its glory, but the Indians, so used to the white-ball game, just didn't show the patience required in a Test match and were instrumental in their own downfall with some forgettable shots." ALSO READ: Cricket: Will encourage Shafali Verma to enjoy her batting, says Mithali Raj India will be quick to enhance their weaknesses when they take on England in a five-match Test series beginning in August. After the loss in the WTC final, Virat Kohli expressed that his team's batsmen didn't squeeze the New Zealand bowlers, particularly on Kyle Jamieson, permitting him to bowl in comparable regions for extensive stretches. Nonetheless, Sunil Gavaskar recommended that to be effective in attempting conditions; one necessity to bat in the manner in which one typically does while being patient and making the right shot choice. As per him, Kane Williamson exemplified that approach consummately. "What patience and good shot selection can do in trying conditions was seen in the batting of New Zealand captain Kane Williamson in both innings. He held the New Zealand innings together and took his team home. What he also showed is that the thinking that a batsman needs to go out and start playing shots on this kind of pitch and in conditions favoring the bowler is just negative thinking. He batted the way he knows how to, and that's what every batsman should do" - Sunil Gavaskar composed. In spite of the inadequacies, Sunil Gavaskar is certain that Team India will perform better in the Test series against England, as conditions will be significantly greater for batting in August. India will trust that their batting unit can concoct better exhibitions in the series against England.

Cricket: Team India didn't show the patience needed in a Test match, says Sunil Gavaskar

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