Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Brendon McCullum talks about the defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2021, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Varun Chakaravarthy's spell and more.

AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell took the game away: KKR's Brendon McCullum

Former Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Gautam Gambhir was left fuming with Eoin Morgan's captaincy after Maxwell and ABD powered Royal Challengers Bangalore to 204/4 by the end of 20 overs.&nbsp;

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Royal Challengers Bangalore were off to a terrible start as Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar were dismissed by Varun Chakravarthy and were down to 9/2. However, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan decided to bring a change in bowling and bring in Shakib in place of Varun despite Chakravarthy's over. Maxwell and AB de Villiers' smash-fest set a 200+ target for KKR.&nbsp;

Gambhir slammed the English cricketer and described this decision as to the "weirdest" captaincy call he has ever seen.

"Virat Kohli was a big wicket, no doubt about it. But that has to be the weirdest kind of captaincy I have ever seen in my life. Someone taking two wickets in the first over, and then does not get to bowl the next one," Gambhir, who led KKR to two IPL titles during his cricketing days, said on Star Sports after RCB's innings.

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"Probably when you know the in-form batter is in. You could have probably seen the game in the first six overs, had Varun Chakravarthy had picked the third wicket or dismissed Glenn Maxwell. This game could have been over there and then," Gambhir added.

"Yes, AB de Villiers was there, but it would have put pressure on him as well," Gambhir further said.

"I am happy that an Indian captain did not make this blunder. Because a lot of people would have actually got their daggers out had an Indian captain made this call. That was probably the most ridiculous captaincy I have ever seen," Gambhir said.

"I can't explain that. Because there is no terminology for it - when someone has taken two wickets, and an in-form batter is in and you take off your wicket-taking option in the next over," he signed off.

Former Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Gautam Gambhir was left fuming with Eoin Morgan's captaincy after Maxwell and ABD powered Royal Challengers Bangalore to 204/4 by the end of 20 overs.

Former Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Gautam Gambhir was left fuming with Eoin Morgan's captaincy after Maxwell and ABD powered Royal Challengers Bangalore to 204/4 by the end of 20 overs. IN PICS| From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years Royal Challengers Bangalore were off to a terrible start as Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar were dismissed by Varun Chakravarthy and were down to 9/2. However, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan decided to bring a change in bowling and bring in Shakib in place of Varun despite Chakravarthy's over. Maxwell and AB de Villiers' smash-fest set a 200+ target for KKR. Gambhir slammed the English cricketer and described this decision as to the "weirdest" captaincy call he has ever seen. "Virat Kohli was a big wicket, no doubt about it. But that has to be the weirdest kind of captaincy I have ever seen in my life. Someone taking two wickets in the first over, and then does not get to bowl the next one," Gambhir, who led KKR to two IPL titles during his cricketing days, said on Star Sports after RCB's innings. ALSO READ: Michael Vaughan makes big call on 'slightly under the radar' Glenn Maxwell in IPL 2021 "Probably when you know the in-form batter is in. You could have probably seen the game in the first six overs, had Varun Chakravarthy had picked the third wicket or dismissed Glenn Maxwell. This game could have been over there and then," Gambhir added. "Yes, AB de Villiers was there, but it would have put pressure on him as well," Gambhir further said. "I am happy that an Indian captain did not make this blunder. Because a lot of people would have actually got their daggers out had an Indian captain made this call. That was probably the most ridiculous captaincy I have ever seen," Gambhir said. "I can't explain that. Because there is no terminology for it - when someone has taken two wickets, and an in-form batter is in and you take off your wicket-taking option in the next over," he signed off.

IPL 2021- 'Weirdest kind of captaincy': Gautam Gambhir slams KKR skipper Eoin Morgan

From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years

From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2020 to September 2021.

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A total of 28 cricketers were awarded central contracts in four categories.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah remain in the highest payment bracket (Grade A+) which is Rs 7 crore.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya was upgraded to Grade A, which is worth Rs 5 crore. Newbies Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj entered the list at Grade C which is worth Rs 1 crore.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar was demoted to Grade B (worth Rs 3 crore). Kedar Jadhav was not offered the contract this time.&nbsp;

<h2>COMPLETE LIST:&nbsp;</h2>

GRADE A+ (Rs 7 crore): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah.

GRADE A (Rs 5 crore): R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya.

GRADE B (Rs 3 crore): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Mayank Agarwal.

GRADE C (Rs 1 crore): Kuldeep Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari , Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2020 to September 2021.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2020 to September 2021. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- WATCH: Sanju Samson's stunning one-handed catch against Delhi Capitals A total of 28 cricketers were awarded central contracts in four categories. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah remain in the highest payment bracket (Grade A+) which is Rs 7 crore. Hardik Pandya was upgraded to Grade A, which is worth Rs 5 crore. Newbies Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj entered the list at Grade C which is worth Rs 1 crore. Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar was demoted to Grade B (worth Rs 3 crore). Kedar Jadhav was not offered the contract this time. COMPLETE LIST: GRADE A+ (Rs 7 crore): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah. GRADE A (Rs 5 crore): R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya. GRADE B (Rs 3 crore): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Mayank Agarwal. GRADE C (Rs 1 crore): Kuldeep Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari , Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj.

BCCI  announces annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India: Virat and Rohit retain top spot

Rajasthan Royals' Riyan Parag is an exciting prospect in this year's Indian Premier League. The young gun smashed 25 off 11 deliveries in Rajasthan Royals’ first match of IPL 2021 while chasing a mammoth total set by the Punjab Kings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-wasim-jaffer-uses-mankading-incident-meme-ahead-of-rr-vs-dc-game-royals-respond-377763" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Wasim Jaffer uses mankading incident meme ahead of RR vs DC game; Royals respond</a>

Parag has now revealed an important advice from RCB skipper Virat Kohli, that he received last year. The 19-year-old said that Indian skipper Kohli asked him not to focus on the Orange Cap and urged the youngster to focus on getting the crucial 20 or 30 runs to take the team over the line.&nbsp;

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“No, it doesn’t actually [if not getting a lot of chances to bat matters to him]. I had a chat with Virat Kohli during the last IPL. He specifically told me that ‘you are not going to get the Orange Cap. You bat at No. 5 or No. 6 so there is no point in you thinking about the Orange Cap. You just think about how you can get those crucial 20 or 30 runs and when you get the chance to go in at a crucial phase, just think how you can get the team through.’ So that really fit in my mind and now I don’t think about how many runs I’m getting, I just think how my runs are benefiting the team,” said Parag in a chat with Cricbuzz.

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Parag went on to say that IPL is one such tournament where a cricketer can come across the best players in the world.&nbsp;

“Mentally, it has been a big positive impact. When you play for your state, you get to play India’s best players. But when you play IPL, you get to share the dressing room with players like Steve Smith, Ajinkya Rahane, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer. These are top current international cricket players. And then when you come up against people like Virat Kohli or MS Dhoni, it makes you mentally very strong,” concluded Parag.

Rajasthan Royals' Riyan Parag is an exciting prospect in this year's Indian Premier League. The young gun smashed 25 off 11 deliveries in Rajasthan Royals’ first match of IPL 2021 while chasing a mammoth total set by the Punjab Kings.

Rajasthan Royals' Riyan Parag is an exciting prospect in this year's Indian Premier League. The young gun smashed 25 off 11 deliveries in Rajasthan Royals’ first match of IPL 2021 while chasing a mammoth total set by the Punjab Kings. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Wasim Jaffer uses mankading incident meme ahead of RR vs DC game; Royals respond Parag has now revealed an important advice from RCB skipper Virat Kohli, that he received last year. The 19-year-old said that Indian skipper Kohli asked him not to focus on the Orange Cap and urged the youngster to focus on getting the crucial 20 or 30 runs to take the team over the line. IN PICS| Dhoni, Kohli: Highest-paid players with mind-boggling salaries in IPL “No, it doesn’t actually [if not getting a lot of chances to bat matters to him]. I had a chat with Virat Kohli during the last IPL. He specifically told me that ‘you are not going to get the Orange Cap. You bat at No. 5 or No. 6 so there is no point in you thinking about the Orange Cap. You just think about how you can get those crucial 20 or 30 runs and when you get the chance to go in at a crucial phase, just think how you can get the team through.’ So that really fit in my mind and now I don’t think about how many runs I’m getting, I just think how my runs are benefiting the team,” said Parag in a chat with Cricbuzz. IN PICS| Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021: Five players who can replace him Parag went on to say that IPL is one such tournament where a cricketer can come across the best players in the world. “Mentally, it has been a big positive impact. When you play for your state, you get to play India’s best players. But when you play IPL, you get to share the dressing room with players like Steve Smith, Ajinkya Rahane, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer. These are top current international cricket players. And then when you come up against people like Virat Kohli or MS Dhoni, it makes you mentally very strong,” concluded Parag.

IPL 2021- 'You are not going to get the Orange Cap': Riyan Parag reveals skipper Virat Kohli's advice

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli has been reprimanded after an incident that took place during his team’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai that breached the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) Code of Conduct, a BCCI release stated.&nbsp;

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“Mr Kohli admitted to the Level 1 offence 2.2 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee’s decision is final and binding.” said the release.

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Offence 2.2&nbsp;of the IPL’s Code of Conduct means abuse of cricket equipment. Virat was seen hitting the boundary rope and a chair after being dismissed during the match against SunRisers by Jason Holder.&nbsp;

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However, the match ended in Virat's favour as Royal Challengers Bangalore successfully defended 150 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad.&nbsp;

RCB were struggling to even make 130 runs in the later stages. However, Glenn Maxwell went on to smash 59 runs in 41 balls to power Royal Challengers to 149 runs.&nbsp;

In return, Mohammed Siraj started his spell brilliantly and bowled the first maiden of Indian Premier League 2021. He went on to remove Wriddhiman Saha. However, Manish Pandey and David Warner put up a crucial 83-run partnership, inching SRH towards victory.&nbsp;

But, David Warner's dismissal triggered a batting collapse in the SRH. Shahbaz Nadeem's 17th over gave a fatal blow to SRH as they lost three wickets in that over, including in-form Manish Pandey.&nbsp;

With this win, Royal Challengers Bangalore went on top of the Indian Premier League table.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli has been reprimanded after an incident that took place during his team’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai that breached the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) Code of Conduct, a BCCI release stated.

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli has been reprimanded after an incident that took place during his team’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai that breached the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) Code of Conduct, a BCCI release stated. IN PICS: IPL 2021- Royal Challengers Bangalore go on top of points table after beating Sunrisers Hyderabad “Mr Kohli admitted to the Level 1 offence 2.2 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee’s decision is final and binding.” said the release. × Offence 2.2 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct means abuse of cricket equipment. Virat was seen hitting the boundary rope and a chair after being dismissed during the match against SunRisers by Jason Holder. IN PICS: Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021: Five players who can replace him However, the match ended in Virat's favour as Royal Challengers Bangalore successfully defended 150 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad. RCB were struggling to even make 130 runs in the later stages. However, Glenn Maxwell went on to smash 59 runs in 41 balls to power Royal Challengers to 149 runs. In return, Mohammed Siraj started his spell brilliantly and bowled the first maiden of Indian Premier League 2021. He went on to remove Wriddhiman Saha. However, Manish Pandey and David Warner put up a crucial 83-run partnership, inching SRH towards victory. But, David Warner's dismissal triggered a batting collapse in the SRH. Shahbaz Nadeem's 17th over gave a fatal blow to SRH as they lost three wickets in that over, including in-form Manish Pandey. With this win, Royal Challengers Bangalore went on top of the Indian Premier League table.

IPL 2021- Virat Kohli reprimanded for breaching Code of Conduct during SRH clash

Royal Challengers Bangalore successfully defend 150 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad as Kohli and Co. beat SRH by 6 runs in Match 6 of the Indian Premier League&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-royal-challengers-bangalore-go-on-top-of-points-table-after-beating-sunrisers-hyderabad-377622">IPL 2021- Royal Challengers Bangalore go on top of points table after beating Sunrisers Hyderabad</a>

SunRisers Hyderabad won the toss and chose to bowl first. Royal Challengers were off to a steady start. However, the Challengers lost Padikkal too soon. Shahbaz Ahmed fell soon later on.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell held on to the crease to revive RCB. Virat departed after scoring crucial 33 runs. Last match's hero, AB De Villiers was dismissed cheaply.&nbsp;

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RCB were struggling to even make 130 runs in the later stages, however, Glenn Maxwell went on to smash 59 runs in 41 balls to power Royal Challengers to 149 runs.&nbsp;

Rashid Khan scalped two wickets and conceded just 18 runs, whereas, Jason Holder dismissed three.&nbsp;

In return, Mohammed Siraj started his spell brilliantly and bowled the first maiden of Indian Premier League 2021. He went on to remove Wriddhiman Saha. However, Manish Pandey and David Warner put up a crucial 83-run partnership, inching SRH towards victory.&nbsp;

But, David Warner's dismissal triggered a batting collapse in the SRH batting line up. Shahbaz Nadeem's 17th over gave a fatal blow to SRH as they lost three wickets in that over, including in-form Manish Pandey.&nbsp;

With this win, Royal Challengers Bangalore go on top of the Indian Premier League table.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore successfully defend 150 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad as Kohli and Co. beat SRH by 6 runs in Match 6 of the Indian Premier League IN PICS: IPL 2021- Royal Challengers Bangalore go on top of points table after beating Sunrisers Hyderabad SunRisers Hyderabad won the toss and chose to bowl first.

Royal Challengers Bangalore successfully defend 150 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad as Kohli and Co. beat SRH by 6 runs in Match 6 of the Indian Premier League IN PICS: IPL 2021- Royal Challengers Bangalore go on top of points table after beating Sunrisers Hyderabad SunRisers Hyderabad won the toss and chose to bowl first. Royal Challengers were off to a steady start. However, the Challengers lost Padikkal too soon. Shahbaz Ahmed fell soon later on. Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell held on to the crease to revive RCB. Virat departed after scoring crucial 33 runs. Last match's hero, AB De Villiers was dismissed cheaply. IN PICS: Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021: Five players who can replace him RCB were struggling to even make 130 runs in the later stages, however, Glenn Maxwell went on to smash 59 runs in 41 balls to power Royal Challengers to 149 runs. Rashid Khan scalped two wickets and conceded just 18 runs, whereas, Jason Holder dismissed three. In return, Mohammed Siraj started his spell brilliantly and bowled the first maiden of Indian Premier League 2021. He went on to remove Wriddhiman Saha. However, Manish Pandey and David Warner put up a crucial 83-run partnership, inching SRH towards victory. But, David Warner's dismissal triggered a batting collapse in the SRH batting line up. Shahbaz Nadeem's 17th over gave a fatal blow to SRH as they lost three wickets in that over, including in-form Manish Pandey. With this win, Royal Challengers Bangalore go on top of the Indian Premier League table.

IPL 2021- Maxwell and Siraj shine as RCB beat SRH by 6 runs

From Dhoni to Kohli: Highest-paid players with mind-boggling salaries in IPL 2021

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update.

Babar replaces Indian captain Virat Kohli at the top of the table with as many as 865 points. Kohli sits second in the latest ICC ODI Rankings with 857 points followed by Rohit Sharma, who has 825 points to his name.

Kohli was the number one ranked ODI batsman from August 2017 to April 2021, counting to 1,258 days.

By ending Kohli’s 1,258 day-supremacy, Babar has emulated compatriots Zaheer Abbas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number one ODI batsman. In Tests, Babar has attained the best of the fifth position and is currently ranked sixth while in T20Is he is third but has been number one in the past.

Babar, who was the second-highest run-score in Pakistan’s recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa with 228 runs and the highest score of 103, has now dethroned Kohli to sit atop the ICC ODI Rankings.

Babar made his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and has amassed 3808 runs in 78 ODI innings at a splendid average of 56.83. The elegant right-handed batsman has 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries under his belt.&nbsp;

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A good update for 🇵🇰 
 
Fakhar Zaman, following a brilliant series against South Africa, has surged five places to No.8 in the latest <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC men’s ODI rankings for batsmen 👏 <a href="https://t.co/HheS38uijO">pic.twitter.com/HheS38uijO</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1382252708015443971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman is another Pakistan batsman to move up the ODI batting charts, gaining five slots to reach a career-best seventh position after his knock of 101 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi (up four places to a career-best 11th&nbsp;place) and left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (up 29 places to 96th) have progressed thanks to their three-wicket hauls in the match.

For South Africa, all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has gained 11 slots to reach 83rd&nbsp;position after notching a half-century while captain Temba Bavuma has progressed from 88th&nbsp;to 86th&nbsp;place.

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&nbsp;

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update. Babar replaces Indian captain Virat Kohli at the top of the table with as many as 865 points. Kohli sits second in the latest ICC ODI Rankings with 857 points followed by Rohit Sharma, who has 825 points to his name. Kohli was the number one ranked ODI batsman from August 2017 to April 2021, counting to 1,258 days. By ending Kohli’s 1,258 day-supremacy, Babar has emulated compatriots Zaheer Abbas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number one ODI batsman. In Tests, Babar has attained the best of the fifth position and is currently ranked sixth while in T20Is he is third but has been number one in the past. Babar, who was the second-highest run-score in Pakistan’s recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa with 228 runs and the highest score of 103, has now dethroned Kohli to sit atop the ICC ODI Rankings. Babar made his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and has amassed 3808 runs in 78 ODI innings at a splendid average of 56.83. The elegant right-handed batsman has 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries under his belt. ALSO READ: List of records Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 A good update for 🇵🇰 Fakhar Zaman, following a brilliant series against South Africa, has surged five places to No.8 in the latest @MRFWorldwide ICC men’s ODI rankings for batsmen 👏 pic.twitter.com/HheS38uijO — ICC (@ICC) April 14, 2021 × Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman is another Pakistan batsman to move up the ODI batting charts, gaining five slots to reach a career-best seventh position after his knock of 101 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi (up four places to a career-best 11th place) and left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (up 29 places to 96th) have progressed thanks to their three-wicket hauls in the match. For South Africa, all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has gained 11 slots to reach 83rd position after notching a half-century while captain Temba Bavuma has progressed from 88th to 86th place. ALSO READ: Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat ×

Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has said that Indian captain Virat Kohli can improve his batting technique by closely following Pakistan batsman Babar Azam. Javed, who is the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, compared Babar to Sachin Tendulkar as he said the former doesn’t have many weak areas just like the Master Blaster.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;While Javed said Kohli has a better range of shots as compared to Babar, he lacks the correct technique against swing bowlers.<o:p></o:p>

“Virat Kohli has a better range [of shots] as compared to Babar Azam but he also has one area of weakness. If the ball swings, he tends to get trapped around the off-stump such as against [James] Anderson in England,” said Javed in an interview with Cricket Pakistan.

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“When you look at Babar, you don’t see any weak areas. Just like, [Sachin] Tendulkar who also didn’t have any weak areas. Babar is technically more safe and sound but if he follows Kohli’s fitness routine he will become an even better player. Meanwhile, Kohli can improve his t9echnique by looking at Babar so that he doesn’t get trapped,” he added. <o:p></o:p>

Interestingly, this is the same Virat Kohli, who has scored 70 international centuries with the same technique and has been one of the faces of the Indian batting unit for a decade. No wonder social media is having a crack over Javed's latest comments.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-recalls-rahul-dravid-getting-angry-with-ms-dhoni-376774" hreflang="en">Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry with MS Dhoni</a>

Javed went on to heap praise on Babar for being the mainstay of Pakistan batting line-up over the past couple of years. <o:p></o:p>

“During the past two or three years, Babar Azam is 50 per cent of Pakistan’s batting. I never thought that he would be this consistent and even go past Virat Kohli [in ODI rankings]. Pakistan is very lucky, he came when the team was struggling and has single-handedly put the team on the right track. Even, captaincy hasn’t affected his form,” he concluded.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has said that Indian captain Virat Kohli can improve his batting technique by closely following Pakistan batsman Babar Azam. Javed, who is the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, compared Babar to Sachin Tendulkar as he said the former doesn’t have many weak areas just like the Master Blaster.

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has said that Indian captain Virat Kohli can improve his batting technique by closely following Pakistan batsman Babar Azam. Javed, who is the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, compared Babar to Sachin Tendulkar as he said the former doesn’t have many weak areas just like the Master Blaster. While Javed said Kohli has a better range of shots as compared to Babar, he lacks the correct technique against swing bowlers. “Virat Kohli has a better range [of shots] as compared to Babar Azam but he also has one area of weakness. If the ball swings, he tends to get trapped around the off-stump such as against [James] Anderson in England,” said Javed in an interview with Cricket Pakistan. IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 “When you look at Babar, you don’t see any weak areas. Just like, [Sachin] Tendulkar who also didn’t have any weak areas. Babar is technically more safe and sound but if he follows Kohli’s fitness routine he will become an even better player. Meanwhile, Kohli can improve his t9echnique by looking at Babar so that he doesn’t get trapped,” he added. Interestingly, this is the same Virat Kohli, who has scored 70 international centuries with the same technique and has been one of the faces of the Indian batting unit for a decade. No wonder social media is having a crack over Javed's latest comments. ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry with MS Dhoni Javed went on to heap praise on Babar for being the mainstay of Pakistan batting line-up over the past couple of years. “During the past two or three years, Babar Azam is 50 per cent of Pakistan’s batting. I never thought that he would be this consistent and even go past Virat Kohli [in ODI rankings]. Pakistan is very lucky, he came when the team was struggling and has single-handedly put the team on the right track. Even, captaincy hasn’t affected his form,” he concluded.

Babar Azam is like Sachin Tendulkar; Virat Kohli can follow him to improve technique: Aaqib Javed

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was full of praises for his team-mates, especially Harshal Patel and Glenn Maxwell, as the Bengaluru outfit got off to a rollicking start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by two wickets in Chennai on Friday.

RCB roped in Maxwell at the auction for a whopping INR 14.25 crore despite the Aussie having a torrid IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). However, Maxwell answered his critics in style while showing why the RCB management was spot on to spend heavily for his acquisition.

After the IPL 2021 season opener against MI, RCB captain Kohli said that Maxwell’s knock of 39 runs off 28 deliveries was the game-changer as he put the pressure back on the bowlers. Kohli revealed that RCB wanted to allow Maxwell to play a few deliveries before bringing his array of shots into the game rather than slogging from the word go while adding it was important to play the strongest side in the tournament (MI) and test themselves against the best.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-game-could-be-my-last-chris-lynn-on-running-out-captain-rohit-sharma-in-ipl-2021-opener-376596" hreflang="en">First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener</a>

“We won the first match last year as well that we played. It was important to play against the strongest side in the competition and test our side. Everyone was involved in this game, and when you win by two wickets, it means that everyone has gone in and played. A lot of options for me as well that helped bringing the game back. The pitch was looking decent in the first half, but to be honest, with the old ball the length ball was difficult to get away. That is why those partnerships between Maxi and me and then between AB and Maxi was really important. It's not a pitch where you can just hit through the line. You have to be smart with picking the gaps and running hard. Playing in Chennai you have to be respectful of that. The shot that Pollard got out to, in Wankhde it would've sailed into the crowds,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation on Friday.

“We came back well and used the conditions well. They came back well too after losing Rohit early and those last six overs for us were probably the best six we've ever had. We brought Harshal in a trade from Delhi. He is relishing the responsibility and is clear with his plans. He was the difference today. He is going to be our death bowler. As a captain you want players with clarity, and he has that. Jamieson started off well, Yuzi was good, Siraj was good too. In T20 cricket, clarity at the top of your mark is all you as for as a captain. Harshal was very clear with that and it was his day today.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-harshal-patel-and-abd-shine-as-rcb-beat-mumbai-indians-in-season-opener-376541" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener</a>

“We wanted Maxi to bat at four. Rajat is a very solid player. He is an exciting player, plays spin well too. The thinking was that we wanted to give Maxi some balls at the start and not get him slogging right away. You saw the result today of him playing 10-15 balls. His innings was the game-changer. Had he stayed in we would've finished a couple of overs earlier. The opposition then gets nervous about AB. We have depth in the batting which we want to utilize. AB is probably the only one in the team who is so versatile. And he does it on slow wickets what not many can do. In a tricky chase you need experience at the back, and the opposition knows that if he doesn't get out, the bowlers get in a different headspace,” the RCB skipper added.

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Harshal Patel Press Conference | MI v RCB 
 
Man of the Match for RCB, <a href="https://twitter.com/HarshalPatel23?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarshalPatel23</a> gives us insights into his bowling after a brilliant performance against MI in the first match of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> in Chennai.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/VaRWykTbRe">pic.twitter.com/VaRWykTbRe</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1380709619429998592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While AB de Villiers stole the thunders with his terrific knock of 48 off 27 balls, it was Maxwell and Kohli who set the stage for the middle-order batters to finish the game for RCB. While Kohli scored 33 off 29, Maxwell posted 39 off 28.

Earlier, Harshal Patel picked up five wickets and became the first bowler to scalp a five-fer against Mumbai Indians.

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RCB will next be in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 14.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was full of praises for his team-mates, especially Harshal Patel and Glenn Maxwell, as the Bengaluru outfit got off to a rollicking start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by two wickets in Chennai on Friday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was full of praises for his team-mates, especially Harshal Patel and Glenn Maxwell, as the Bengaluru outfit got off to a rollicking start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by two wickets in Chennai on Friday. RCB roped in Maxwell at the auction for a whopping INR 14.25 crore despite the Aussie having a torrid IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). However, Maxwell answered his critics in style while showing why the RCB management was spot on to spend heavily for his acquisition. After the IPL 2021 season opener against MI, RCB captain Kohli said that Maxwell’s knock of 39 runs off 28 deliveries was the game-changer as he put the pressure back on the bowlers. Kohli revealed that RCB wanted to allow Maxwell to play a few deliveries before bringing his array of shots into the game rather than slogging from the word go while adding it was important to play the strongest side in the tournament (MI) and test themselves against the best. ALSO READ: First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener “We won the first match last year as well that we played. It was important to play against the strongest side in the competition and test our side. Everyone was involved in this game, and when you win by two wickets, it means that everyone has gone in and played. A lot of options for me as well that helped bringing the game back. The pitch was looking decent in the first half, but to be honest, with the old ball the length ball was difficult to get away. That is why those partnerships between Maxi and me and then between AB and Maxi was really important. It's not a pitch where you can just hit through the line. You have to be smart with picking the gaps and running hard. Playing in Chennai you have to be respectful of that. The shot that Pollard got out to, in Wankhde it would've sailed into the crowds,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation on Friday. “We came back well and used the conditions well. They came back well too after losing Rohit early and those last six overs for us were probably the best six we've ever had. We brought Harshal in a trade from Delhi. He is relishing the responsibility and is clear with his plans. He was the difference today. He is going to be our death bowler. As a captain you want players with clarity, and he has that. Jamieson started off well, Yuzi was good, Siraj was good too. In T20 cricket, clarity at the top of your mark is all you as for as a captain. Harshal was very clear with that and it was his day today. IN PICS | IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener “We wanted Maxi to bat at four. Rajat is a very solid player. He is an exciting player, plays spin well too. The thinking was that we wanted to give Maxi some balls at the start and not get him slogging right away. You saw the result today of him playing 10-15 balls. His innings was the game-changer. Had he stayed in we would've finished a couple of overs earlier. The opposition then gets nervous about AB. We have depth in the batting which we want to utilize. AB is probably the only one in the team who is so versatile. And he does it on slow wickets what not many can do. In a tricky chase you need experience at the back, and the opposition knows that if he doesn't get out, the bowlers get in a different headspace,” the RCB skipper added. Harshal Patel Press Conference | MI v RCB Man of the Match for RCB, @HarshalPatel23 gives us insights into his bowling after a brilliant performance against MI in the first match of #IPL2021 in Chennai.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #MIvRCB pic.twitter.com/VaRWykTbRe — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) April 10, 2021 × While AB de Villiers stole the thunders with his terrific knock of 48 off 27 balls, it was Maxwell and Kohli who set the stage for the middle-order batters to finish the game for RCB. While Kohli scored 33 off 29, Maxwell posted 39 off 28. Earlier, Harshal Patel picked up five wickets and became the first bowler to scalp a five-fer against Mumbai Indians. × RCB will next be in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 14.

His innings was game-changer: Virat Kohli praises Glenn Maxwell after winning start in IPL 2021

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indian in Chennai on Friday, Virat Kohli has opened up about his bonding with the Bengaluru-based franchise. <o:p></o:p>

Kohli has revealed that despite not winning a single trophy, the thought of leaving RCB has never crossed his mind while adding that it was impossible to “recreate” the feelings and bonding at RCB with any other franchise. <o:p></o:p>

"There are a couple of other teams who have great fan bases but I think we are a team who get a lot of support and adulation wherever we play because we play a certain brand of cricket. We will play our heart out, we might not be composed enough in many difficult situations in the past but there has never been a shortage of passion, commitment, intensity.

Trending:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravids-angry-side-leaves-virat-kohli-in-surprise-376306" hreflang="en">Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise</a>

"A lot of fun on the field and me as an individual have never felt that I wanna move away from the system just because I haven't won a title. That happens because things have been so organic, this cannot be created anywhere. This cannot be manufactured in a way that people are forcing me to play, and I am forcing the management to keep me, there has never been a conversation like that. So, things have been very organic. The respect, the care and the enjoyment I feel here, I don't think I can recreate anywhere else. The experience has been magical," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB.<o:p></o:p>

After ending their IPL 2020 season in playoffs, RCB snapped the likes of Glenn Maxwell, Kyle Jamieson, Dan Christian among others as they look to end their trophy drought in the cash-rich T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

"It feels surreal. Honestly, it doesn't feel like we went away for too long as there was a lot of cricket in between as well but yeah, very excited that we are playing in India again.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mi-vs-rcb-chepauks-pitch-report-chennais-weather-prediction-and-venue-stats-all-you-need-to-know-376301" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Chepauk's pitch report, Chennai's weather prediction and venue stats - All you need to know</a>

"Although in a different way, in a different setting. I am very optimistic and yes I have a good feeling this time around," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB," Virat Kohli had said while joining the RCB bio-bubble in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

RCB take on MI in the first match of IPL 2021 in Chennai on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indian in Chennai on Friday, Virat Kohli has opened up about his bonding with the Bengaluru-based franchise.

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indian in Chennai on Friday, Virat Kohli has opened up about his bonding with the Bengaluru-based franchise. Kohli has revealed that despite not winning a single trophy, the thought of leaving RCB has never crossed his mind while adding that it was impossible to “recreate” the feelings and bonding at RCB with any other franchise. "There are a couple of other teams who have great fan bases but I think we are a team who get a lot of support and adulation wherever we play because we play a certain brand of cricket. We will play our heart out, we might not be composed enough in many difficult situations in the past but there has never been a shortage of passion, commitment, intensity. Trending: Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise "A lot of fun on the field and me as an individual have never felt that I wanna move away from the system just because I haven't won a title. That happens because things have been so organic, this cannot be created anywhere. This cannot be manufactured in a way that people are forcing me to play, and I am forcing the management to keep me, there has never been a conversation like that. So, things have been very organic. The respect, the care and the enjoyment I feel here, I don't think I can recreate anywhere else. The experience has been magical," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB. After ending their IPL 2020 season in playoffs, RCB snapped the likes of Glenn Maxwell, Kyle Jamieson, Dan Christian among others as they look to end their trophy drought in the cash-rich T20 tournament. "It feels surreal. Honestly, it doesn't feel like we went away for too long as there was a lot of cricket in between as well but yeah, very excited that we are playing in India again. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Chepauk's pitch report, Chennai's weather prediction and venue stats - All you need to know "Although in a different way, in a different setting. I am very optimistic and yes I have a good feeling this time around," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB," Virat Kohli had said while joining the RCB bio-bubble in Chennai. RCB take on MI in the first match of IPL 2021 in Chennai on Friday.

Experience has been magical: Virat Kohli talks about his bonding with RCB ahead of IPL 2021

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has left everyone surprised with his new never-seen-before angry avatar including current Indian captain Virat Kohli. Featuring in an advertisement, Dravid can be seen getting angry at others from his car stuck in traffic. Dravid is seen even saying "Indiranagar ka gunda hun main" (I am an Indirinagar goon). <o:p></o:p>

Featuring in an ad for a Bengaluru-based credit card bill payment platform where actor Jim Sarbh is seen saying "it is like saying Rahul Dravid has anger issues" while referring to the benefits offered by the platform. Dravid then appears shouting at everyone and even breaking the side-mirror of a car standing next to him.<o:p></o:p>

Commenting on the ad, India skipper Kohli wrote: "Never seen this side of Rahul bhai."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-ipl-biggest-game-changer-for-indian-cricket-376128" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman to WION: IPL biggest game-changer for Indian cricket</a>

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Never seen this side of Rahul bhai 🤯🤣 <a href="https://t.co/4W93p0Gk7m">pic.twitter.com/4W93p0Gk7m</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1380451732690411521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Kohli gearing up for IPL 2021</h2>

Meanwhile, Kohli will be seen in the opening match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore against defending champions Mumbai Indians in Chennai on Friday. <o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

"I truly believe that we have to focus on our skills and our strengths as a side. Mumbai, obviously, is a champion team they know how to win this competition, we know the strength of their team so if focus too much on that then we are not gonna focus on what we can do.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-royal-challengers-bangalore-team-preview-can-captain-kohli-guide-rcb-to-maiden-trophy-375940" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, RCB - Team Preview: Can captain Kohli guide team to maiden trophy?</a>

"At the end of the day, you are playing cricket which is played on the day at the moment and you could be better than any other guy in the world at that moment," Kohli said in a video posted by the RCB on their official Twitter handle. <o:p></o:p>

"Coming up against Mumbai is always an exciting challenge. Last year, we had two exciting games and we won one and they won the second one which was obviously close and they came through because they have such a strong team. The first one was a cliff-hanger as well big scores and Super Over. We expect a great game to start off the IPL. I can't think of a more exciting or highly skilled intense game to start off the IPL," he added.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has left everyone surprised with his new never-seen-before angry avatar including current Indian captain Virat Kohli. Featuring in an advertisement, Dravid can be seen getting angry at others from his car stuck in traffic.

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has left everyone surprised with his new never-seen-before angry avatar including current Indian captain Virat Kohli. Featuring in an advertisement, Dravid can be seen getting angry at others from his car stuck in traffic. Dravid is seen even saying "Indiranagar ka gunda hun main" (I am an Indirinagar goon). Featuring in an ad for a Bengaluru-based credit card bill payment platform where actor Jim Sarbh is seen saying "it is like saying Rahul Dravid has anger issues" while referring to the benefits offered by the platform. Dravid then appears shouting at everyone and even breaking the side-mirror of a car standing next to him. Commenting on the ad, India skipper Kohli wrote: "Never seen this side of Rahul bhai." ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: IPL biggest game-changer for Indian cricket Never seen this side of Rahul bhai 🤯🤣 pic.twitter.com/4W93p0Gk7m — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 9, 2021 × Kohli gearing up for IPL 2021 Meanwhile, Kohli will be seen in the opening match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore against defending champions Mumbai Indians in Chennai on Friday. "I truly believe that we have to focus on our skills and our strengths as a side. Mumbai, obviously, is a champion team they know how to win this competition, we know the strength of their team so if focus too much on that then we are not gonna focus on what we can do. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, RCB - Team Preview: Can captain Kohli guide team to maiden trophy? "At the end of the day, you are playing cricket which is played on the day at the moment and you could be better than any other guy in the world at that moment," Kohli said in a video posted by the RCB on their official Twitter handle. "Coming up against Mumbai is always an exciting challenge. Last year, we had two exciting games and we won one and they won the second one which was obviously close and they came through because they have such a strong team. The first one was a cliff-hanger as well big scores and Super Over. We expect a great game to start off the IPL. I can't think of a more exciting or highly skilled intense game to start off the IPL," he added.

Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise

Usain Bolt, regarded as the fastest man on the planet, showed his support for IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore after sharing a photo wearing the team's jersey conveyed his best wishes to the Virat Kohli-led side.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-i-am-backing-you-rcb-skipper-virat-kohli-welcomes-newcomers-with-motivating-speech-376031" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'I am backing you..': RCB skipper Virat Kohli welcomes newcomers with motivating speech</a>

Skipper Virat Kohli and star player AB de Villiers reacted to Bolt's gesture.&nbsp;

Usain Bolt took to Twitter and wrote: Challengers, just letting you know, I'm still the fastest cat around. @imVkohli @ABdeVilliers17 @pumacricket @RCBTweets."

Virat Kohli responded by tweeting: “No doubt and that's why we've got you on our team now"

South African star AB de Villiers replied: "We know whom to call when we need a few extra runs! @usainbolt @pumacricket."

The franchise also responded and went on to invited the Jamaican to India to be the part of the squad.&nbsp;

“The Red suits you, legend! Next up, catch a flight to India. We’re waiting!” RCB tweeted.

The Bangalore-based franchise had an exciting 2021 auction with Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Maxwell being the main highlight.&nbsp;

RCB also bought all-rounder Dan Christian, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Suyash Prabhudesai and KS Bharat.

Royal Challengers Bangalore will face defending champions Mumbai Indians in the IPL season opener on Friday.&nbsp;

Usain Bolt, regarded as the fastest man on the planet, showed his support for IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore after sharing a photo wearing the team's jersey conveyed his best wishes to the Virat Kohli-led side.

Usain Bolt, regarded as the fastest man on the planet, showed his support for IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore after sharing a photo wearing the team's jersey conveyed his best wishes to the Virat Kohli-led side. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'I am backing you..': RCB skipper Virat Kohli welcomes newcomers with motivating speech Skipper Virat Kohli and star player AB de Villiers reacted to Bolt's gesture. Usain Bolt took to Twitter and wrote: Challengers, just letting you know, I'm still the fastest cat around. @imVkohli @ABdeVilliers17 @pumacricket @RCBTweets." Virat Kohli responded by tweeting: “No doubt and that's why we've got you on our team now" South African star AB de Villiers replied: "We know whom to call when we need a few extra runs! @usainbolt @pumacricket." The franchise also responded and went on to invited the Jamaican to India to be the part of the squad. “The Red suits you, legend! Next up, catch a flight to India. We’re waiting!” RCB tweeted. The Bangalore-based franchise had an exciting 2021 auction with Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Maxwell being the main highlight. RCB also bought all-rounder Dan Christian, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Suyash Prabhudesai and KS Bharat. Royal Challengers Bangalore will face defending champions Mumbai Indians in the IPL season opener on Friday.

IPL 2021- Usain Bolt tweets in Royal Challengers Bangalore jersey; Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers react

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli welcomed the newcomers to the team with a warm and motivating speech ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a>

The Bangalore-based franchise had an exciting 2021 auction with Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Maxwell being the main highlight.&nbsp;

RCB also bought all-rounder Dan Christian, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Suyash Prabhudesai and KS Bharat.

RCB took to social media and shared a video where skipper Kohli can be seen talking to his squad ahead of the practice session.&nbsp;

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T-2 Days: Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers at RCB’s practice session 
 
Full squad training at Chepauk, and some pep talk from the experienced folks, catch what happened at yesterday’s practice session on <a href="https://twitter.com/myntra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myntra</a> presents Bold Diaries.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/RSXKv6xD6B">pic.twitter.com/RSXKv6xD6B</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1380015043325136897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"To all the new guys who have joined RCB, welcome to this amazing group of guys. As you know from the guys that have played here in the past, the atmosphere, the energy throughout the season will be amazing. The only thing I expect from the guys is to make the most of the time spent of the field. Whether it’s practice sessions, needless to mention, I expect guys to show intensity. That’s the way we have always played and that won’t change," Kohli said.

Virat talked about the successful 2020 campaign when RCB got into the playoffs. He felt that the squad, this season, is stronger than the previous edition.&nbsp;

"Last year was a great step in the right direction for us and I feel like our squad is even stronger this year. I expect good things to happen again," Kohli added.

"But a lot of enjoyment happened last year and the focus was to make the most of the time we had, especially in our practice sessions. There was no mucking around, there was no wasting time. We were professionals in what we wanted to do and had a lot of fun as well through the season."

"I am backing you, the management is backing you. Players who have been selected, we believe they are going to contribute to the culture that RCB has, and to the plans that we’re going to execute on the field," the RCB captain said.

"If we all believe together, we can do some really specials things this season. All of us should look forward to it, I certainly look forward to it. So let’s get off to a good start boys."

Royal Challengers Bangalore will face defending champions Mumbai Indians in the IPL season opener on Friday.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli welcomed the newcomers to the team with a warm and motivating speech ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League.

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli welcomed the newcomers to the team with a warm and motivating speech ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League. IN PICS: List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 The Bangalore-based franchise had an exciting 2021 auction with Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Maxwell being the main highlight. RCB also bought all-rounder Dan Christian, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Suyash Prabhudesai and KS Bharat. RCB took to social media and shared a video where skipper Kohli can be seen talking to his squad ahead of the practice session. T-2 Days: Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers at RCB’s practice session Full squad training at Chepauk, and some pep talk from the experienced folks, catch what happened at yesterday’s practice session on @myntra presents Bold Diaries.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/RSXKv6xD6B — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) April 8, 2021 × "To all the new guys who have joined RCB, welcome to this amazing group of guys. As you know from the guys that have played here in the past, the atmosphere, the energy throughout the season will be amazing. The only thing I expect from the guys is to make the most of the time spent of the field. Whether it’s practice sessions, needless to mention, I expect guys to show intensity. That’s the way we have always played and that won’t change," Kohli said. Virat talked about the successful 2020 campaign when RCB got into the playoffs. He felt that the squad, this season, is stronger than the previous edition. "Last year was a great step in the right direction for us and I feel like our squad is even stronger this year. I expect good things to happen again," Kohli added. "But a lot of enjoyment happened last year and the focus was to make the most of the time we had, especially in our practice sessions. There was no mucking around, there was no wasting time. We were professionals in what we wanted to do and had a lot of fun as well through the season." "I am backing you, the management is backing you. Players who have been selected, we believe they are going to contribute to the culture that RCB has, and to the plans that we’re going to execute on the field," the RCB captain said. "If we all believe together, we can do some really specials things this season. All of us should look forward to it, I certainly look forward to it. So let’s get off to a good start boys." Royal Challengers Bangalore will face defending champions Mumbai Indians in the IPL season opener on Friday.

IPL 2021- 'I am backing you..': RCB skipper Virat Kohli welcomes newcomers with motivating speech

Indian Premier League is set to kick off with a blockbuster clash between Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a>

Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition.

Mumbai Indians arguably have the most settled and power-packed squad among all IPL franchises.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), on the other hand, have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs.

With an aim to break the title jinx, Virat Kohli-led RCB would take the field in IPL 2021 with some new and big-name faces in the squad.

Both teams have faced each other 27 times. With Mumbai Indians dominating the equation by 17 wins, whereas, Royal Challengers won 10 times.&nbsp;

<h2>Probable XI:&nbsp;</h2>

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, AB de Villiers(w), Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Daniel Christian, Washington Sundar, Kyle Jamieson, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj

Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah

Indian Premier League is set to kick off with a blockbuster clash between Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Indian Premier League is set to kick off with a blockbuster clash between Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. IN PICS| List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition. Mumbai Indians arguably have the most settled and power-packed squad among all IPL franchises. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), on the other hand, have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs. With an aim to break the title jinx, Virat Kohli-led RCB would take the field in IPL 2021 with some new and big-name faces in the squad. Both teams have faced each other 27 times. With Mumbai Indians dominating the equation by 17 wins, whereas, Royal Challengers won 10 times. Probable XI: Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, AB de Villiers(w), Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Daniel Christian, Washington Sundar, Kyle Jamieson, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah

IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Virat's Royal Challengers to lock horns with Rohit's Mumbai Indians

List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has given his take on who should open alongside Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli in the upcoming Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Hogg was impressed by Devdutt Padikkal's performance last season and believes that he should open with Kohli.&nbsp;

“They will have Padikkal open the batting. I think he did a fantastic job last year and is another Indian talent coming through. Opening the batting with him will be Virat Kohli. I think that is his prime position. He will be able to time the ball, pierce the gaps during the powerplay. His role will be to bat through the whole innings,” Brad Hogg stated in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.

Brad Hogg believes RCB have a strong top six this season.&nbsp;

"You have got AB de Villiers coming in at no. 3 and then Glenn Maxwell to finish off the innings at no. 4. I will have Dan Christian coming in at no. 5, another power-hitter, and Mohammed Azharuddeen. I think that particular six would be dominant in this year's IPL," Brad Hogg said.

Brad Hogg's predicted XI for RCB: Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Christian, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has given his take on who should open alongside Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli in the upcoming Indian Premier League.

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has given his take on who should open alongside Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli in the upcoming Indian Premier League. Hogg was impressed by Devdutt Padikkal's performance last season and believes that he should open with Kohli. “They will have Padikkal open the batting. I think he did a fantastic job last year and is another Indian talent coming through. Opening the batting with him will be Virat Kohli. I think that is his prime position. He will be able to time the ball, pierce the gaps during the powerplay. His role will be to bat through the whole innings,” Brad Hogg stated in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. Brad Hogg believes RCB have a strong top six this season. "You have got AB de Villiers coming in at no. 3 and then Glenn Maxwell to finish off the innings at no. 4. I will have Dan Christian coming in at no. 5, another power-hitter, and Mohammed Azharuddeen. I think that particular six would be dominant in this year's IPL," Brad Hogg said. Brad Hogg's predicted XI for RCB: Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Christian, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

IPL 2021- Brad Hogg feels this batsman should open alongside Virat Kohli

England batsman Ollie Pope revealed that Indian skipper Virat Kohli came up to him during the first Test of the four-match series at Chennai and said that 'this is the last of the flat wickets'.&nbsp;

"In the second innings the pitch started spinning quite a lot," Pope said during Surrey's pre-season media day at the Oval. "I remember standing at the non-striker's end and Kohli came up to me and said 'this is the last of the flat wickets'. At that point I knew it was probably going to be quite a challenging rest of the series from a batting point of view."

The first Test was the only match when Root and Co. withstood the Indian spin attack as they defeated the hosts. However, after the match, India bounced back and won the remaining three matches.&nbsp;

England batting order struggled in front of Indian spinners in the remaining three matches. Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel shared close to 60 wickets.&nbsp;

Pope said that skipper Joe Root and Ben Stokes felt that it was one of the toughest conditions that they have played in.

"Chatting to the more experienced guys like Joe Root and Ben Stokes, those guys were pretty much saying exactly the same: these are the toughest conditions they've played in," Pope said. "If those guys are saying it as well, you know how challenging it is.

"I'm not saying [India] felt they had to produce those wickets, but the fact they've gone away from their flat wickets for three days, then spin on day four and five, which is generally the theme out there, it was quite a compliment to us in how we went about our business and a compliment to our bowlers.

"That shot us in the foot a little bit but it's a good compliment to us as a team because they obviously felt they had to change their gameplan," he said.

England batsman Ollie Pope revealed that Indian skipper Virat Kohli came up to him during the first Test of the four-match series at Chennai and said that 'this is the last of the flat wickets'.

England batsman Ollie Pope revealed that Indian skipper Virat Kohli came up to him during the first Test of the four-match series at Chennai and said that 'this is the last of the flat wickets'. "In the second innings the pitch started spinning quite a lot," Pope said during Surrey's pre-season media day at the Oval. "I remember standing at the non-striker's end and Kohli came up to me and said 'this is the last of the flat wickets'. At that point I knew it was probably going to be quite a challenging rest of the series from a batting point of view." The first Test was the only match when Root and Co. withstood the Indian spin attack as they defeated the hosts. However, after the match, India bounced back and won the remaining three matches. England batting order struggled in front of Indian spinners in the remaining three matches. Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel shared close to 60 wickets. Pope said that skipper Joe Root and Ben Stokes felt that it was one of the toughest conditions that they have played in. "Chatting to the more experienced guys like Joe Root and Ben Stokes, those guys were pretty much saying exactly the same: these are the toughest conditions they've played in," Pope said. "If those guys are saying it as well, you know how challenging it is. "I'm not saying [India] felt they had to produce those wickets, but the fact they've gone away from their flat wickets for three days, then spin on day four and five, which is generally the theme out there, it was quite a compliment to us in how we went about our business and a compliment to our bowlers. "That shot us in the foot a little bit but it's a good compliment to us as a team because they obviously felt they had to change their gameplan," he said.

English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test

Devdutt Padikkal is ready for his first Indian Premier League at home. He had a prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

The 20-year-old opener talked about his experience with skipper Virat Kohli and South Africa's AB de Villiers in an interview with Hindustan Times. He said: "That was a pretty special experience to have. You get to learn so much from them. The kind of passion and drive they have for the game, the way they play, the way they carry themselves through the busy, long tournament."

Padikkal has opened innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore alongside Virat Kohli in the previous edition. He talked about his experience while batting alongside the Indian captain and how he "makes the game pretty easy".&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-lead-this-team-one-day-rishabh-pant-reacts-as-delhi-capitals-announce-him-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374331" hreflang="en">'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021</a>

He said: "He plays at such a high level; when you are batting with him, you feel you have to really push yourself and match the standard at which he plays. That helped improve my game."&nbsp;

"Batting with him, he makes the game pretty easy. He understands the game so well, when to take a chance and when to pull back, and when to really go after the bowling. When you have so much knowledge and experience it makes our job very easy at the other end," the 20-year-old added.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to kick-off IPL 2021 in the season-opener against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai on April 9, 2021.

Devdutt Padikkal is ready for his first Indian Premier League at home. He had a prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket.

Devdutt Padikkal is ready for his first Indian Premier League at home. He had a prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 The 20-year-old opener talked about his experience with skipper Virat Kohli and South Africa's AB de Villiers in an interview with Hindustan Times. He said: "That was a pretty special experience to have. You get to learn so much from them. The kind of passion and drive they have for the game, the way they play, the way they carry themselves through the busy, long tournament." Padikkal has opened innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore alongside Virat Kohli in the previous edition. He talked about his experience while batting alongside the Indian captain and how he "makes the game pretty easy". ALSO READ: 'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021 He said: "He plays at such a high level; when you are batting with him, you feel you have to really push yourself and match the standard at which he plays. That helped improve my game." "Batting with him, he makes the game pretty easy. He understands the game so well, when to take a chance and when to pull back, and when to really go after the bowling. When you have so much knowledge and experience it makes our job very easy at the other end," the 20-year-old added. Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to kick-off IPL 2021 in the season-opener against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai on April 9, 2021.

IPL 2021- 'Makes the game..': RCB's Devdutt Padikkal on batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli

New Zealand batsman Devon Conway has attained a career-best fourth position in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to his match-winning knock in the series opener against Bangladesh in Hamilton on Sunday.

The left-hander, who has been keeping wickets in the series, smashed a superb 92 not out off 52 balls as New Zealand posted a massive 210 for three and won that match by 66 runs. He has advanced five positions and finds himself in the top five after only 13 matches, on the back of consistent performances against the West Indies, Pakistan, and Australia since his debut in November 2020.

Glenn Philips, who has unbeaten knocks of 24 and 58 to show and won the player of the match award in the second T20I in Napier as New Zealand took a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series, has also attained a career-best status. He has moved up 32 places to 26th in the weekly update to the men’s rankings, carried out on Wednesdays.

Fast bowler Tim Southee has advanced two places to seventh, only one shy of his career-best sixth position attained in February this year, after taking three wickets in the first two matches. Lockie Ferguson has moved up 16 places to 42nd in what is another piece of good news for New Zealand, with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held later this year in India.

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A sizzling 52-ball 92* in the first T20I against Bangladesh has helped Devon Conway continue his rise up the rankings! 
 
He's now No.4 in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Rankings for Men's T20I batting! 🌟 <a href="https://t.co/G66FWmuFX0">pic.twitter.com/G66FWmuFX0</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1377177618529705984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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For Bangladesh, 21-year-old left-handed opener Mohammad Naim has progressed 13 places to reach 28th position after scoring 27 and 38 while Soumya Sarkar has moved up five places to 41st after notching a half-century in Napier.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a>

There are quite a few changes in the&nbsp;ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings that considered performances from the last match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series between New Zealand and Bangladesh and the last two of the series between India and England.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has advanced four places to 24th scoring 99 off 52 balls in the second ODI and is up to second among all-rounders, while Jonny Bairstow has retained seventh place after touching a career-high 796 rating points with his player of the match effort of 124 in the same match. Moeen Ali is up nine places to 46th among bowlers.&nbsp;

For India, Lokesh Rahul has moved up from 31st to 27th, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has achieved a career-best 42nd position among batsmen after scores of 35 and 64, and Rishabh Pant has entered the top 100.

Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who took three for 42 in the final match, has gained nine slots to reach the 11th position, which is his best since being 10th in September 2017. Shardul Thakur’s haul of four for 67 in the same match sees him force his way up to 80th from 93rd.

Bangladesh’s Mahmudullah is up seven places to joint-40th among batsmen after an unbeaten 76 while for New Zealand, Matt Henry has moved up five slots to a career-best third position among bowlers after a haul of four for 27. Jimmy Neesham has gained 16 places to reach 62nd among bowlers.

In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Sri Lanka’s Niroshan Dickwella and West Indies’ Nkrumah Bonner have gained big after the drawn opening match of their two-Test series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-will-be-a-talismanic-leader-suresh-raina-on-rishabh-pant-leading-delhi-capitals-374423" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals</a>

Dickwella, who notched his 17th Test half-century – a record for a player without a century – has gained 10 places to reach a career-best 29th position. Bonner’s maiden Test century, in only his third match, has lifted him into the top 50 for the first time.

Oshada Fernando (up 10 places to 72nd), Joshua da Silva (up four places to 77th), and Lahiru Thirmanne (up 14 places to 78th) are other Sri Lanka players to move up the list for batsmen while Suranga Lakmal (up five places to a career-best 22nd), Lasith Embuldeniya (up three places to 38th), Vishwa Fernando (up five places to 47th) and Dushmantha Chameera (up three places to 86th) have advanced among bowlers. 
&nbsp; 
For the West Indies, all-rounder Jason Holder has moved up three places to eighth among bowlers after a haul of five for 27 in Sri Lanka’s first innings while Kemar Roach is up from 14th to 12th. Kyle Mayers has moved up 12 places to 53rd among batsmen.

New Zealand batsman Devon Conway has attained a career-best fourth position in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to his match-winning knock in the series opener against Bangladesh in Hamilton on Sunday.

New Zealand batsman Devon Conway has attained a career-best fourth position in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to his match-winning knock in the series opener against Bangladesh in Hamilton on Sunday. The left-hander, who has been keeping wickets in the series, smashed a superb 92 not out off 52 balls as New Zealand posted a massive 210 for three and won that match by 66 runs. He has advanced five positions and finds himself in the top five after only 13 matches, on the back of consistent performances against the West Indies, Pakistan, and Australia since his debut in November 2020. Glenn Philips, who has unbeaten knocks of 24 and 58 to show and won the player of the match award in the second T20I in Napier as New Zealand took a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series, has also attained a career-best status. He has moved up 32 places to 26th in the weekly update to the men’s rankings, carried out on Wednesdays. Fast bowler Tim Southee has advanced two places to seventh, only one shy of his career-best sixth position attained in February this year, after taking three wickets in the first two matches. Lockie Ferguson has moved up 16 places to 42nd in what is another piece of good news for New Zealand, with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held later this year in India. A sizzling 52-ball 92* in the first T20I against Bangladesh has helped Devon Conway continue his rise up the rankings! He's now No.4 in the @MRFWorldwide ICC Rankings for Men's T20I batting! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/G66FWmuFX0 — ICC (@ICC) March 31, 2021 × For Bangladesh, 21-year-old left-handed opener Mohammad Naim has progressed 13 places to reach 28th position after scoring 27 and 38 while Soumya Sarkar has moved up five places to 41st after notching a half-century in Napier. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 There are quite a few changes in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings that considered performances from the last match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series between New Zealand and Bangladesh and the last two of the series between India and England. England all-rounder Ben Stokes has advanced four places to 24th scoring 99 off 52 balls in the second ODI and is up to second among all-rounders, while Jonny Bairstow has retained seventh place after touching a career-high 796 rating points with his player of the match effort of 124 in the same match. Moeen Ali is up nine places to 46th among bowlers. For India, Lokesh Rahul has moved up from 31st to 27th, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has achieved a career-best 42nd position among batsmen after scores of 35 and 64, and Rishabh Pant has entered the top 100. Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who took three for 42 in the final match, has gained nine slots to reach the 11th position, which is his best since being 10th in September 2017. Shardul Thakur’s haul of four for 67 in the same match sees him force his way up to 80th from 93rd. Bangladesh’s Mahmudullah is up seven places to joint-40th among batsmen after an unbeaten 76 while for New Zealand, Matt Henry has moved up five slots to a career-best third position among bowlers after a haul of four for 27. Jimmy Neesham has gained 16 places to reach 62nd among bowlers. In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Sri Lanka’s Niroshan Dickwella and West Indies’ Nkrumah Bonner have gained big after the drawn opening match of their two-Test series. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals Dickwella, who notched his 17th Test half-century – a record for a player without a century – has gained 10 places to reach a career-best 29th position. Bonner’s maiden Test century, in only his third match, has lifted him into the top 50 for the first time. Oshada Fernando (up 10 places to 72nd), Joshua da Silva (up four places to 77th), and Lahiru Thirmanne (up 14 places to 78th) are other Sri Lanka players to move up the list for batsmen while Suranga Lakmal (up five places to a career-best 22nd), Lasith Embuldeniya (up three places to 38th), Vishwa Fernando (up five places to 47th) and Dushmantha Chameera (up three places to 86th) have advanced among bowlers. For the West Indies, all-rounder Jason Holder has moved up three places to eighth among bowlers after a haul of five for 27 in Sri Lanka’s first innings while Kemar Roach is up from 14th to 12th. Kyle Mayers has moved up 12 places to 53rd among batsmen.

ICC Men's T20I Rankings: Devon Conway attains career-best fourth place as Kohli, Rahul slip

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs&nbsp;after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England.&nbsp;

RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India.&nbsp;

Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

The likes of&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 commences from April 9.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai.

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England. RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai. Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England. ALSO READ: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India. Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength” ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8 "Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." The likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend. IPL 2021 commences from April 9.

IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned&nbsp;that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as&nbsp;they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been vocal about hectic scheduling amid stringent restrictions due to the virus, again raised&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;following the completion of the three-match ODI series which India won 2-1 in Pune on Sunday.&nbsp;

Players from both India and England moved on immediately to join their respective IPL 2021 squads and will again have to stay within the limits of the IPL “bubble”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in 'bubbles' for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said.&nbsp;

"You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength.&nbsp;Some times&nbsp;you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change.&nbsp;

"I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

Since the restart of cricket in August 2020, international players have been restricted to staying inside bio-secure bubbles since August with small breaks.&nbsp;

From September to January, Indian players went through the strictest quarantine and bio-bubble rules in the delayed IPL 2020 in UAE followed by India’s tour of Australia. The Indian players had a short break between the end of Australia&nbsp;seres&nbsp;and the start of England series, which comprised of four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

England’s much-talked-about rest and rotate policy made sure players got rest during their three months touring Sri Lanka, where they played two Tests, and India.&nbsp;

England players including Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (both Rajasthan Royals), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Sunday's batting hero Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings) are staying on to join the IPL.&nbsp;

Both Buttler and Bairstow have said that they have “enough” left in their batteries to play the IPL 2021 before going back to the international calendar and gear up for T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year.&nbsp;

"It's been great that everyone's health has been really looked after and whenever it's possible to get out of the 'bubble' and back in," said Buttler, who stood in as captain for injured Eoin Morgan in the last two one-day internationals.

"So we are all very thankful for that to help with those situations and also it's about how we plan moving forward. That's going to be part of player welfare."

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli, who has been vocal about hectic scheduling amid stringent restrictions due to the virus, again raised concerns following the completion of the three-match ODI series which India won 2-1 in Pune on Sunday. Players from both India and England moved on immediately to join their respective IPL 2021 squads and will again have to stay within the limits of the IPL “bubble”. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in 'bubbles' for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength. Some times you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. "I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. "But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." Since the restart of cricket in August 2020, international players have been restricted to staying inside bio-secure bubbles since August with small breaks. From September to January, Indian players went through the strictest quarantine and bio-bubble rules in the delayed IPL 2020 in UAE followed by India’s tour of Australia. The Indian players had a short break between the end of Australia seres and the start of England series, which comprised of four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs. England’s much-talked-about rest and rotate policy made sure players got rest during their three months touring Sri Lanka, where they played two Tests, and India. England players including Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (both Rajasthan Royals), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Sunday's batting hero Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings) are staying on to join the IPL. Both Buttler and Bairstow have said that they have “enough” left in their batteries to play the IPL 2021 before going back to the international calendar and gear up for T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year. "It's been great that everyone's health has been really looked after and whenever it's possible to get out of the 'bubble' and back in," said Buttler, who stood in as captain for injured Eoin Morgan in the last two one-day internationals. "So we are all very thankful for that to help with those situations and also it's about how we plan moving forward. That's going to be part of player welfare."

'You can't expect everyone...': Virat Kohli warns players 'cooked' in bubble life ahead of IPL 2021

Indian skipper Virat Kohli will be looking to end his century drought in the series decider against England. However, it has not stopped him from contributing runs for Team India in the 50-over format.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-used-him-in-the-t20is-but-its-virat-kohli-on-whether-hardik-will-bowl-in-odi-series-373724" hreflang="en">'We used him in the T20Is but it's...': Virat Kohli on whether Hardik will bowl in ODI series</a>

The last time he scored a century in ODI was back against West Indies in August 2019, however, since then he has scored eight 50-plus scores in 14 innings.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli is on the brink of breaking a major record. The Indian skipper is just 167 runs away from surpassing Sri Lanka legend Arjuna Ranatunga in the list of most ODI runs by a captain. If he scores and surpasses the former Sri Lankan great, he will climb to the fourth spot.&nbsp;

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting tops the list with 8497 runs in 230 matches as captain. He is followed by former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who racked up 6641 runs in 200 games. New Zealand's Stephen Fleming is third 6295 runs in 2018.

Virat Kohli is also just 13 runs away from becoming the 4th batsman to complete 5,000 ODI runs at home. He will be fourth to do so after Sachin Tendulkar (6976), Ricky Ponting (5406), and Jacques Kallis (5178).

The Indian captain is also one century away from equalling Sachin Tendulkar’s tally of most centuries (20 centuries) at home in ODIs and one short of equalling Ricky Ponting for most centuries as captain, which is 22 in ODIs.

India have already defeated England in the Test and T20I series.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli will be looking to end his century drought in the series decider against England. However, it has not stopped him from contributing runs for Team India in the 50-over format.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli will be looking to end his century drought in the series decider against England. However, it has not stopped him from contributing runs for Team India in the 50-over format. ALSO READ: 'We used him in the T20Is but it's...': Virat Kohli on whether Hardik will bowl in ODI series The last time he scored a century in ODI was back against West Indies in August 2019, however, since then he has scored eight 50-plus scores in 14 innings. Skipper Kohli is on the brink of breaking a major record. The Indian skipper is just 167 runs away from surpassing Sri Lanka legend Arjuna Ranatunga in the list of most ODI runs by a captain. If he scores and surpasses the former Sri Lankan great, he will climb to the fourth spot. Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting tops the list with 8497 runs in 230 matches as captain. He is followed by former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who racked up 6641 runs in 200 games. New Zealand's Stephen Fleming is third 6295 runs in 2018. Virat Kohli is also just 13 runs away from becoming the 4th batsman to complete 5,000 ODI runs at home. He will be fourth to do so after Sachin Tendulkar (6976), Ricky Ponting (5406), and Jacques Kallis (5178). The Indian captain is also one century away from equalling Sachin Tendulkar’s tally of most centuries (20 centuries) at home in ODIs and one short of equalling Ricky Ponting for most centuries as captain, which is 22 in ODIs. India have already defeated England in the Test and T20I series.

Virat Kohli is one century away from these records; Check them out!

Skipper Kohli explained the reason why Hardik was given the ball in the T20Is but not for the ODIs match against England and explained that it was workload management.&nbsp;

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He said: "We need to manage his body as well going forward. We need to understand where we need his skill sets with the ball along with his batting."

"We used him in the T20Is but it's a bit of workload management as well. We want to ensure we have Hardik Pandya fit and strong because he's going to be an important part of the squad," Kohli said about Hardik

However, former Indian opener Sehwag felt that Hardik Pandya could have bowled at least 3-4 overs.&nbsp;

"At least to make a change, Hardik Pandya could have been given a spell of 3-4 overs. I don't understand if he can bowl four overs in T20I cricket, then why cannot he do the same in ODI cricket," Sehwag asked on Cricbuzz.

"If he only wants to play as a batsman, then say that he will only play as a batsman in ODI cricket, so then his performance will be assessed accordingly. Because as an allrounder you sometimes get an advantage, that if you are unable to perform with the bat on one day, then you performed with the ball.

"Or vice-versa. But if he is not going to ball, then he will only be assessed as a batsman. So, I am little disappointed that Pandya did not bowl a single over. If he is fit, he can bowl four overs in T20Is, so he could have bowled a couple of overs. If he had got a breakthrough, it would have helped the team," he added.

Sehwag went on to say that Hardik Pandya has not played much cricket since his return and questioned the workload management.&nbsp;

"If there are no overs in Hardik Pandya's workload, then I feel something is wrong. Kohli said that workload management is being done for all bowlers including Pandya. But it cannot be so that he does not bowl a single over. Fielding for 50 overs is also tiring, so if he bowls four-five overs in between, it would not increase the workload much. I don't know who decides that Pandya's workload has increased. Because since he has returned from surgery, he has not played much cricket," Sehwag said.

"He missed the Tests. He has played 3 T20Is, in which he bowled four-six overs. The load of work has not even come on him yet since he has returned to fitness. If he was playing non-stop cricket across all formats, then I would have understood it. But he has no load on himself yet. He has only played T20Is. Maybe he might have said that he will not bowl 10 overs in ODI cricket, because if I get injured I might have to miss IPL."

Skipper Kohli explained the reason why Hardik was given the ball in the T20Is but not for the ODIs match against England and explained that it was workload management.

Skipper Kohli explained the reason why Hardik was given the ball in the T20Is but not for the ODIs match against England and explained that it was workload management. ALSO READ: Star pacer Jofra Archer to undergo surgery on right hand: ECB He said: "We need to manage his body as well going forward. We need to understand where we need his skill sets with the ball along with his batting." "We used him in the T20Is but it's a bit of workload management as well. We want to ensure we have Hardik Pandya fit and strong because he's going to be an important part of the squad," Kohli said about Hardik However, former Indian opener Sehwag felt that Hardik Pandya could have bowled at least 3-4 overs. "At least to make a change, Hardik Pandya could have been given a spell of 3-4 overs. I don't understand if he can bowl four overs in T20I cricket, then why cannot he do the same in ODI cricket," Sehwag asked on Cricbuzz. "If he only wants to play as a batsman, then say that he will only play as a batsman in ODI cricket, so then his performance will be assessed accordingly. Because as an allrounder you sometimes get an advantage, that if you are unable to perform with the bat on one day, then you performed with the ball. "Or vice-versa. But if he is not going to ball, then he will only be assessed as a batsman. So, I am little disappointed that Pandya did not bowl a single over. If he is fit, he can bowl four overs in T20Is, so he could have bowled a couple of overs. If he had got a breakthrough, it would have helped the team," he added. Sehwag went on to say that Hardik Pandya has not played much cricket since his return and questioned the workload management. "If there are no overs in Hardik Pandya's workload, then I feel something is wrong. Kohli said that workload management is being done for all bowlers including Pandya. But it cannot be so that he does not bowl a single over. Fielding for 50 overs is also tiring, so if he bowls four-five overs in between, it would not increase the workload much. I don't know who decides that Pandya's workload has increased. Because since he has returned from surgery, he has not played much cricket," Sehwag said. "He missed the Tests. He has played 3 T20Is, in which he bowled four-six overs. The load of work has not even come on him yet since he has returned to fitness. If he was playing non-stop cricket across all formats, then I would have understood it. But he has no load on himself yet. He has only played T20Is. Maybe he might have said that he will not bowl 10 overs in ODI cricket, because if I get injured I might have to miss IPL."

'I feel something is wrong': Virender Sehwag disagrees with Virat Kohli on Hardik's workload

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya had a fine run with the ball in the T20I series against England. However, the Baroda-based player did not bowl in the ODI match against England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-felt-like-i-was-watching-a-computer-game-stuart-broad-after-englands-big-win-against-india-373645" hreflang="en">'I felt like I was watching a computer game': Stuart Broad after England's big win against India</a>

Skipper Kohli explained the reason why Hardik was not given the ball in the ODI match against England. He said: "We need to manage his body as well going forward. We need to understand where we need his skill sets with the ball along with his batting."

"We used him in the T20Is but it's a bit of workload management as well. We want to ensure we have Hardik Pandya fit and strong because he's going to be an important part of the squad," Kohli said about Hardik

The prolific all-rounder underwent intense rehab after going through back surgery in September 2019. Despite being declared fit, Hardik's role was restricted to being a pure batsman, even for Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

His bowling action had to be remodelled, however, is still not preferred to bowl for Team India. His brother, Krunal Pandya did not have a great outing with the ball in the second ODI against as the Baroda-based bowler conceded 72 runs in just 6 overs.&nbsp;

Former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Team India can't use the left-arm spinner as their fifth bowling option.&nbsp;

Speaking on Star Sports after the match, Gavaskar said: "I will say the Indian bowling was probably a little weak because Krunal Pandya cannot be your fifth bowler, he cannot be a bowler who bowls 10 overs. You need a bowler like Yuzvendra Chahal on such pitches, who can bowl 10 overs." 
&nbsp;

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya had a fine run with the ball in the T20I series against England. However, the Baroda-based player did not bowl in the ODI match against England.

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya had a fine run with the ball in the T20I series against England. However, the Baroda-based player did not bowl in the ODI match against England. ALSO READ: 'I felt like I was watching a computer game': Stuart Broad after England's big win against India Skipper Kohli explained the reason why Hardik was not given the ball in the ODI match against England. He said: "We need to manage his body as well going forward. We need to understand where we need his skill sets with the ball along with his batting." "We used him in the T20Is but it's a bit of workload management as well. We want to ensure we have Hardik Pandya fit and strong because he's going to be an important part of the squad," Kohli said about Hardik The prolific all-rounder underwent intense rehab after going through back surgery in September 2019. Despite being declared fit, Hardik's role was restricted to being a pure batsman, even for Mumbai Indians. His bowling action had to be remodelled, however, is still not preferred to bowl for Team India. His brother, Krunal Pandya did not have a great outing with the ball in the second ODI against as the Baroda-based bowler conceded 72 runs in just 6 overs. Former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Team India can't use the left-arm spinner as their fifth bowling option. Speaking on Star Sports after the match, Gavaskar said: "I will say the Indian bowling was probably a little weak because Krunal Pandya cannot be your fifth bowler, he cannot be a bowler who bowls 10 overs. You need a bowler like Yuzvendra Chahal on such pitches, who can bowl 10 overs."

'We used him in the T20Is but it's...': Virat Kohli on whether Hardik will bowl in ODI series

Indian wicket-keeper batsman KL Rahul bounced back into form in the first ODI against England in Pune on &nbsp;Tuesday after scoring a blistering knock of 3-ball 62 runs to take India past 300.&nbsp;

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Rahul addressed a virtual press conference on Thursday and talked about the healthy competition for the wicketkeeper’s slot with Rishabh Pant who is having a prolific run in cricket currently.&nbsp;

“When you are part of this Indian team, you always know competition would be really high. You can never sit back and feel comfortable like you own your position. That's the good thing, our team has high talent, players will always come in. As a player in this team, you always try to push yourself and try to get better with each passing day,” Rahul said.

Rahul was asked whether it was easier to start afresh in a new series, to which he replied: “Like I said, the ODI format, playing at number five, I could take a little more time than I did maybe in T20s. Having spent a little time in the middle, having played a couple of good shots, the footwork got better.

“When I walked in, Shikhar was batting well. I knew when Krunal walked in, I realised we had to stitch a partnership together, when you stop thinking about your own personal game and when there is responsibility in front of you, you start thinking clearer, having spent 20-25 balls in the middle, I started to feel more confident,” said Rahul.

Indian wicket-keeper batsman KL Rahul bounced back into form in the first ODI against England in Pune on Tuesday after scoring a blistering knock of 3-ball 62 runs to take India past 300.

Indian wicket-keeper batsman KL Rahul bounced back into form in the first ODI against England in Pune on Tuesday after scoring a blistering knock of 3-ball 62 runs to take India past 300. ALSO READ: Eoin Morgan ruled out of India ODIs due to injury, Jos Buttler set to captain England Rahul addressed a virtual press conference on Thursday and talked about the healthy competition for the wicketkeeper’s slot with Rishabh Pant who is having a prolific run in cricket currently. “When you are part of this Indian team, you always know competition would be really high. You can never sit back and feel comfortable like you own your position. That's the good thing, our team has high talent, players will always come in. As a player in this team, you always try to push yourself and try to get better with each passing day,” Rahul said. Rahul was asked whether it was easier to start afresh in a new series, to which he replied: “Like I said, the ODI format, playing at number five, I could take a little more time than I did maybe in T20s. Having spent a little time in the middle, having played a couple of good shots, the footwork got better. “When I walked in, Shikhar was batting well. I knew when Krunal walked in, I realised we had to stitch a partnership together, when you stop thinking about your own personal game and when there is responsibility in front of you, you start thinking clearer, having spent 20-25 balls in the middle, I started to feel more confident,” said Rahul.

'Our team has high talent': KL Rahul on healthy competition for keeper's spot with Rishabh Pant

Virat Kohli on Friday continued his record-breaking&nbsp;run in&nbsp;international cricket&nbsp;as the Indian skipper touched the landmark of scoring 10,000 runs at the number three position during the ongoing second ODI against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli with his 66-run knock became the second batsman to score 10,000 runs at number three after former Australia captain Ricky Ponting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ponting sits atop the standings at number three in ODIs with 12,662 runs off 330 innings. However, Kohli surpassed the 10,000-run mark while playing his 190th&nbsp;innings. The staggering difference shows the quality and consistency of Kohli in the 50-over format.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-a-fast-bowler-shoaib-akhtar-heaps-praise-on-prasidh-krishna-after-impressive-odi-debut-373360" hreflang="en">'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut</a>

The third batsman on the list is former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Kumar&nbsp;Sangakkara, who accumulated 9,747 runs in 238 innings followed by former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis who had scored 7,774 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about the match, Kohli and KL Rahul&nbsp;stitched&nbsp;a handy partnership following the early dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Following Kohli's departure, Rahul and Rishabh Pant upped the ante with the former scoring his fifth ODI century. The southpaw, meanwhile, dealt in boundaries in the second ODI against England.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the three-match ODI series against England after winning the opener by 66 runs. The Men in Blue would&nbsp;be looking to seal the series while the visitors would be looking to keep the series alive.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-hesson-expects-ab-de-villiers-to-keep-wickets-for-rcb-in-ipl-2021-373335" hreflang="en">Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021</a>

“If you want to perform anywhere in the world against your wishes, then you have to be ready to do whatever happens at the toss. That's why we wanted to put ourselves in a similar position again even if we won the toss. Hopefully, we can do much better in the middle overs. You have to be precise in your plans and executions. That's something we did in the last game. We didn't want to take the game deep. We wanted to attack at all times,” Kohli said after the toss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Friday continued his record-breaking run in international cricket as the Indian skipper touched the landmark of scoring 10,000 runs at the number three position during the ongoing second ODI against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

Virat Kohli on Friday continued his record-breaking run in international cricket as the Indian skipper touched the landmark of scoring 10,000 runs at the number three position during the ongoing second ODI against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. Kohli with his 66-run knock became the second batsman to score 10,000 runs at number three after former Australia captain Ricky Ponting. Ponting sits atop the standings at number three in ODIs with 12,662 runs off 330 innings. However, Kohli surpassed the 10,000-run mark while playing his 190th innings. The staggering difference shows the quality and consistency of Kohli in the 50-over format. ALSO READ: 'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut The third batsman on the list is former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Kumar Sangakkara, who accumulated 9,747 runs in 238 innings followed by former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis who had scored 7,774 runs. Talking about the match, Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a handy partnership following the early dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Following Kohli's departure, Rahul and Rishabh Pant upped the ante with the former scoring his fifth ODI century. The southpaw, meanwhile, dealt in boundaries in the second ODI against England. India lead the three-match ODI series against England after winning the opener by 66 runs. The Men in Blue would be looking to seal the series while the visitors would be looking to keep the series alive. ALSO READ: Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021 “If you want to perform anywhere in the world against your wishes, then you have to be ready to do whatever happens at the toss. That's why we wanted to put ourselves in a similar position again even if we won the toss. Hopefully, we can do much better in the middle overs. You have to be precise in your plans and executions. That's something we did in the last game. We didn't want to take the game deep. We wanted to attack at all times,” Kohli said after the toss.

Virat Kohli joins Ricky Ponting in an elite list after attaining another record in ODIs

Virat Kohli on Tuesday shattered the record books again as he registered another elusive achievement in international cricket to his name during the first ODI between India and England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. While the wait for&nbsp;the 71st&nbsp;international century continued for Kohli as he was dismissed for 56, the Indian skipper achieved an elusive record while surpassing the likes of Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, Kumar Sangakkara among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli, with his 56-run knock against England, became the fastest player to score 10,000 international runs on home soil&nbsp;as the swashbuckling batsman touched the landmark in just 195 innings. While Kohli became the seventh player to achieve the feat, the Indian captain was the fastest to the record as he continues to set high benchmarks in the world of cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-nca-conducts-level-2-coaching-courses-for-international-and-domestic-cricketers-372502" hreflang="en">BCCI-NCA conducts Level 2 coaching courses for international and domestic cricketers</a>

Not only that, Kohli also surpassed Kallis in the list of most 50+ scores in ODI cricket. Kohli, with his half-century in the first ODI in Pune, now has 104 50+ scores in ODIs and is now just behind&nbsp;Ricky Ponting (112), Kumar Sangakkara (118) and&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar (145) in the list.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cf5bb2e7-95d6-4b31-ab00-63d55dc36b6b}{234}" paraid="1975187165" >Most International&nbsp;runs&nbsp;on home soil:&nbsp;</h2>

14192 -&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar&nbsp;

13117 - Ricky&nbsp;Ponting&nbsp;

&nbsp;12305 - Jacques Kallis&nbsp;

12043 - Kumar Sangakkara&nbsp;

11679 - M&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;

10000* - Virat Kohli&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-indias-17-year-old-shafali-verma-becomes-no-1-t20i-batter-372492" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: India's 17-year-old Shafali Verma becomes no. 1 T20I batter</a>

Meanwhile, India would be looking to carry the good run of form from Test and T20Is to ODI cricket against world champions England. The Kohli-led India had defeated England 3-1 in the Test series while winning the five-match T20I series 3-2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Tuesday shattered the record books again as he registered another elusive achievement in international cricket to his name during the first ODI between India and England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

Virat Kohli on Tuesday shattered the record books again as he registered another elusive achievement in international cricket to his name during the first ODI between India and England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. While the wait for the 71st international century continued for Kohli as he was dismissed for 56, the Indian skipper achieved an elusive record while surpassing the likes of Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, Kumar Sangakkara among others. Kohli, with his 56-run knock against England, became the fastest player to score 10,000 international runs on home soil as the swashbuckling batsman touched the landmark in just 195 innings. While Kohli became the seventh player to achieve the feat, the Indian captain was the fastest to the record as he continues to set high benchmarks in the world of cricket. ALSO READ: BCCI-NCA conducts Level 2 coaching courses for international and domestic cricketers Not only that, Kohli also surpassed Kallis in the list of most 50+ scores in ODI cricket. Kohli, with his half-century in the first ODI in Pune, now has 104 50+ scores in ODIs and is now just behind Ricky Ponting (112), Kumar Sangakkara (118) and Sachin Tendulkar (145) in the list. Most International runs on home soil: 14192 - Sachin Tendulkar 13117 - Ricky Ponting 12305 - Jacques Kallis 12043 - Kumar Sangakkara 11679 - M Jayawardene 10000* - Virat Kohli ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: India's 17-year-old Shafali Verma becomes no. 1 T20I batter Meanwhile, India would be looking to carry the good run of form from Test and T20Is to ODI cricket against world champions England. The Kohli-led India had defeated England 3-1 in the Test series while winning the five-match T20I series 3-2.

Virat Kohli becomes fastest to 10,000 international runs on home soil

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England. However, it was no less than a gamble as KL Rahul was out of form and Ishan Kishan and Shikhar Dhawan were present in the dugout to replace him for the fifth T20I.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-made-no-sense-not-having-india-and-pakistan-series-ramiz-raja-on-wtc-372149" hreflang="en">'It made no sense not having India and Pakistan series': Ramiz Raja on WTC</a>

However, the skipper took a brave call and went in as an opener along with vice-captain Rohit Sharma in the crucial decider against England. India were off to a great start. Virat smashed unbeaten 80 runs in 52 balls powering India to a massive total of 224 runs by the end of the first innings.&nbsp;

Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan felt that it was Suryakumar Yadav who made it possible for Virat Kohli to open the innings.

"The question one should ask is how it became possible that Virat Kohli could come and open the innings? It became possible because India got a batsman like Suryakumar Yadav. Suryakumar went there and showed what he can do at no. 3 position," Zaheer said on Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-definitely-like-virat-kohli-on-opening-the-innings-for-team-india-in-future-372079" hreflang="en">I would definitely like...': Virat Kohli on opening the innings for Team India in future</a>

"This thinking, I believed started from there, and then the result was that Virat Kohli said that 'I can't keep going down the batting order'. Shreyas Iyer has also been pushed down the batting order. So, he decided that opening the innings could be a better option, let's try it out," Zaheer further added.

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England. However, it was no less than a gamble as KL Rahul was out of form and Ishan Kishan and Shikhar Dhawan were present in the dugout to replace him for the fifth T20I. ALSO READ: 'It made no sense not having India and Pakistan series': Ramiz Raja on WTC However, the skipper took a brave call and went in as an opener along with vice-captain Rohit Sharma in the crucial decider against England. India were off to a great start. Virat smashed unbeaten 80 runs in 52 balls powering India to a massive total of 224 runs by the end of the first innings. Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan felt that it was Suryakumar Yadav who made it possible for Virat Kohli to open the innings. "The question one should ask is how it became possible that Virat Kohli could come and open the innings? It became possible because India got a batsman like Suryakumar Yadav. Suryakumar went there and showed what he can do at no. 3 position," Zaheer said on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: I would definitely like...': Virat Kohli on opening the innings for Team India in future "This thinking, I believed started from there, and then the result was that Virat Kohli said that 'I can't keep going down the batting order'. Shreyas Iyer has also been pushed down the batting order. So, he decided that opening the innings could be a better option, let's try it out," Zaheer further added.

Zaheer Khan feels this player 'made it possible for Virat Kohli to open innings'

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