<p>Team India off-spinner Axar Patel was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' after producing the best bowling figures in a day-night Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera. The off-spinner took 11 wickets for 70 runs to hand England a 10-wicket defeat on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-becomes-second-fastest-to-400-test-wickets-only-fourth-indian-to-achieve-milestone-366225" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone</a></strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>After the match, the two local boys, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, came together for a light-hearted interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While both of them were discussing the feeling of playing in front of the home crowd, Indian skipper Virat Kohli crashed the interview and praised Axar Patel in Gujurati. To which Hardik said: "He is trying to learn a bit of Gujarati these days."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DO NOT MISS: <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> interviews man of the moment <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a>.👍👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a><br />
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P.S.: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> makes a special appearance 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkBallTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkBallTest</a><br />
<br />
Watch the full interview 🎥 👇 <a href="https://t.co/kytMdM4JzN">https://t.co/kytMdM4JzN</a> <a href="https://t.co/QLJWMkCNM5">pic.twitter.com/QLJWMkCNM5</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1365149591293820929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/team-india-beat-england-in-pink-ball-test-at-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-366282">Team India beat England in pink-ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium</a></p>

<p>England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively.</p>

<p>While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket.</p>


Team India off-spinner Axar Patel was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' after producing the best bowling figures in a day-night Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera.

Team India off-spinner Axar Patel was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' after producing the best bowling figures in a day-night Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera. The off-spinner took 11 wickets for 70 runs to hand England a 10-wicket defeat on Thursday. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone After the match, the two local boys, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, came together for a light-hearted interview. While both of them were discussing the feeling of playing in front of the home crowd, Indian skipper Virat Kohli crashed the interview and praised Axar Patel in Gujurati. To which Hardik said: "He is trying to learn a bit of Gujarati these days." DO NOT MISS: @hardikpandya7 interviews man of the moment @akshar2026.👍👍 - By @RajalArora P.S.: #TeamIndia skipper @imVkohli makes a special appearance 😎@Paytm #INDvENG #PinkBallTest Watch the full interview 🎥 👇 https://t.co/kytMdM4JzN pic.twitter.com/QLJWMkCNM5 — BCCI (@BCCI) February 26, 2021 × India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. IN PICS| Team India beat England in pink-ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively. While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket.

WATCH: Virat Kohli crashes Axar-Hardik's interview; compliments Patel in Gujarati

<p>Winning the toss in the third Test did not provide any advantage to the English side and Root and Co. were bowled out on 112 runs. However, in the middle of England’s innings, an incident took place between Indian skipper Virat Kohli and all-rounder Ben Stokes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-netizens-troll-ben-stokes-for-catch-appeal-despite-ball-touching-the-ground-365957" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Netizens troll Ben Stokes for catch appeal despite ball touching the ground</a></p>

<p>Ben Stokes was on crease facing Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin when he stopped the play due to some reason. He felt like some disturbance around and signalled it with his hands. During the same time, the Indian skipper walked up to him and shouted ‘Come on yaar Ben.’</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">These two though 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/xqk6CI5JOK">pic.twitter.com/xqk6CI5JOK</a></p>
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<p>The moment was caught on camera and soon became a talking point on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local boy Axar Patel scalped six wickets as India restricted England to 112 runs. Zak Crawley scored most of the runs for England (53 runs).&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will now look to play the twilight phase with cautiousness and get a good total on board. With the series locked at 1-1, India would be itching to take a series lead heading into the final Test, which will be played at the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p>


Winning the toss in the third Test did not provide any advantage to the English side and Root and Co. were bowled out on 112 runs. However, in the middle of England’s innings, an incident took place between Indian skipper Virat Kohli and all-rounder Ben Stokes.

Winning the toss in the third Test did not provide any advantage to the English side and Root and Co. were bowled out on 112 runs. However, in the middle of England’s innings, an incident took place between Indian skipper Virat Kohli and all-rounder Ben Stokes. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Netizens troll Ben Stokes for catch appeal despite ball touching the ground Ben Stokes was on crease facing Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin when he stopped the play due to some reason. He felt like some disturbance around and signalled it with his hands. During the same time, the Indian skipper walked up to him and shouted ‘Come on yaar Ben.’ These two though 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/xqk6CI5JOK — Chloe-Amanda Bailey (@ChloeAmandaB) February 24, 2021 × The moment was caught on camera and soon became a talking point on social media. Local boy Axar Patel scalped six wickets as India restricted England to 112 runs. Zak Crawley scored most of the runs for England (53 runs). India will now look to play the twilight phase with cautiousness and get a good total on board. With the series locked at 1-1, India would be itching to take a series lead heading into the final Test, which will be played at the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

IND vs ENG- WATCH: Virat Kohli loses cool over Ben Stokes during pink ball Test

<p>Batting stalwart Virat Kohli is known for his on-field aggression during cricket matches, however, former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh revealed that the Indian captain is instead polite and down-to-earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-captain-virat-kohli-eyes-couple-of-huge-records-at-third-test-against-england-365593" hreflang="en">Indian captain Virat Kohli eyes couple of huge records at third Test against England</a></p>

<p>According to Singh, Kohli does not have servants at his house and likes to serve food to guests himself. "At his home, there are no servants. He and his wife will serve food to everyone. What else do you want? Virat always sits with you, chats with you, and goes out for dinner with you. All the other players have so much respect for him. He's very down-to-earth and strong-willed," Sarandeep told Sportskeeda.</p>

<p>"On the field, he needs to be that way because he's the captain. He's the one who'll handle the pressure on the ground and make decisions in the heat of the moment," he concluded.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-kartik-aaryan-tabu-starrer-bhool-bhulaiya-2-gets-a-release-date-365572" hreflang="en">Kartik Aaryan-Tabu starrer 'Bhool Bhulaiya 2' gets a release date</a></p>

<p>He went on to talk about Kohli's 'humble' nature off the field, and especially during team selection meetings.</p>

<p>"Whenever Virat comes, team meetings used to go on for 1, 1.5 hours. Virat is a good listener. I don't know what people think about him," he said.</p>

<p>"If you see him in the matches, he's always charged up while batting and fielding. So it seems like he's always hot and arrogant, and doesn't listen to anyone. But no, he's as down-to-earth as he seems aggressive on the field. In selection meetings, he was so polite. He always used to listen to everyone and then finally come to a decision.”</p>

<p>Recently, Virat Kohli and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma welcomed their baby girl who they named Vamika.</p>


Batting stalwart Virat Kohli is known for his on-field aggression during cricket matches, however, former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh revealed that the Indian captain is instead polite and down-to-earth.

Batting stalwart Virat Kohli is known for his on-field aggression during cricket matches, however, former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh revealed that the Indian captain is instead polite and down-to-earth. ALSO READ: Indian captain Virat Kohli eyes couple of huge records at third Test against England According to Singh, Kohli does not have servants at his house and likes to serve food to guests himself. "At his home, there are no servants. He and his wife will serve food to everyone. What else do you want? Virat always sits with you, chats with you, and goes out for dinner with you. All the other players have so much respect for him. He's very down-to-earth and strong-willed," Sarandeep told Sportskeeda. "On the field, he needs to be that way because he's the captain. He's the one who'll handle the pressure on the ground and make decisions in the heat of the moment," he concluded. ALSO READ: Kartik Aaryan-Tabu starrer 'Bhool Bhulaiya 2' gets a release date He went on to talk about Kohli's 'humble' nature off the field, and especially during team selection meetings. "Whenever Virat comes, team meetings used to go on for 1, 1.5 hours. Virat is a good listener. I don't know what people think about him," he said. "If you see him in the matches, he's always charged up while batting and fielding. So it seems like he's always hot and arrogant, and doesn't listen to anyone. But no, he's as down-to-earth as he seems aggressive on the field. In selection meetings, he was so polite. He always used to listen to everyone and then finally come to a decision.” Recently, Virat Kohli and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma welcomed their baby girl who they named Vamika.

'At his home, there are no servants': Former Indian selector reveals Virat and Anushka's 'humble' lifestyle

<p>Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and creating a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming third Test against England at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/olympic-size-swimming-pool-dressing-room-with-gyms-11-centre-pitches-complete-guide-to-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-in-ahmedabad-365397" hreflang="en">Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad</a></p>

<p>The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-james-anderson-gives-his-verdict-on-motera-stadiums-pitch-ahead-of-pink-ball-test-365455" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test</a></p>

<p>Kohli could surpass another major record if his team manages to win the Test match at Motera as he is currently tied with MS Dhoni in the record of India captain with most Test wins at home. He equalled Captain Cool's achievement after the massive win at Chepauk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The win in the third Test against England at the Motera Stadium will be Kohli's 22nd Test win as captain at home, and he would surpass Dhoni to claim the top spot in the list.</p>

<p>Other Indian captains in the list following the duo are Mohammad Azharuddin (13 wins), Sourav Ganguly (10 wins), and Sunil Gavaskar (7 wins).</p>

<p>The four-match series is levelled at 1-1 with two matches remaining. The Day/Night Test match will begin on February 24 at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>


Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and creating a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming third Test against England at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and creating a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming third Test against England at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. IN PICS: Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet. If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test Kohli could surpass another major record if his team manages to win the Test match at Motera as he is currently tied with MS Dhoni in the record of India captain with most Test wins at home. He equalled Captain Cool's achievement after the massive win at Chepauk. The win in the third Test against England at the Motera Stadium will be Kohli's 22nd Test win as captain at home, and he would surpass Dhoni to claim the top spot in the list. Other Indian captains in the list following the duo are Mohammad Azharuddin (13 wins), Sourav Ganguly (10 wins), and Sunil Gavaskar (7 wins). The four-match series is levelled at 1-1 with two matches remaining. The Day/Night Test match will begin on February 24 at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian captain Virat Kohli eyes couple of huge records at third Test against England

From Virat Kohli to Jasprit Bumrah: Team India breaks sweat ahead of Motera Test

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2e24f48b-db4e-4264-b240-a26e8714f19e}{100}" paraid="657487946" >There were some new faces in the Indian squad&nbsp;for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of&nbsp;the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series. After earning his Team India call-up, Suryakumar Yadav has said that he can’t wait to&nbsp;learn from Indian skipper Virat Kohli and other players from the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f06c9028-6204-4be6-8781-34dc91580cf8}{102}" paraid="69116760" >Suryakumar has been scoring runs for fun in the domestic arena and had amassed 480 runs for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020. While fans were left disappointed to not see his name for&nbsp;the Australian tour, the Indian selectors rewarded him&nbsp;with a call-up for the England series.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{15a2f85a-40a9-4bb5-a197-b8ad854aa2be}{140}" paraid="165936394" >"I have already started thinking about how I am going to spend time with all the greats over there,” Suryakumar&nbsp;told Sports Today.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{15a2f85a-40a9-4bb5-a197-b8ad854aa2be}{140}" paraid="165936394" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graeme-swann-names-key-player-for-england-in-the-pink-ball-test-365265" hreflang="en">Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{119f924b-fd81-4f63-b41f-3560a472aec2}{86}" paraid="1100885512" >"I will get to learn so much from our captain Virat Kohli and then there is Rohit Sharma, everyone, A-Z all the players. I am really looking forward to spend quality time, grasp as much as I can," Suryakumar&nbsp;added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{119f924b-fd81-4f63-b41f-3560a472aec2}{98}" paraid="1900167989" >SKY is one of the three maiden call-up earners in the Indian squad along with Mumbai Indians team-mate and Haryana all-rounder Rahul&nbsp;Tewatia.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{70fd0c50-db7c-4cd6-80cc-1cf03965f041}{226}" paraid="186024489" >"There were a few instances during the IPL where I used to dream about winning games for India and I think the opportunity for me has come at the right time. It's on me how I take it and how I make full use of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{70fd0c50-db7c-4cd6-80cc-1cf03965f041}{226}" paraid="186024489" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/focus-on-cricket-not-on-pitch-rohit-sharmas-message-to-experts-365259" hreflang="en">Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{119f924b-fd81-4f63-b41f-3560a472aec2}{146}" paraid="1580746314" >"Not thinking about too much, I would say, I would go one step at a time, take one game at a time. I have a few&nbsp;plan. Obviously, I would love to go ahead and explore in this series," Surya said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{119f924b-fd81-4f63-b41f-3560a472aec2}{152}" paraid="1692673640" >All five matches of the T20I series against England in Ahmedabad will be hosted by world’s largest stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{119f924b-fd81-4f63-b41f-3560a472aec2}{158}" paraid="738692707" >&nbsp;</p>


There were some new faces in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series.

There were some new faces in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series. After earning his Team India call-up, Suryakumar Yadav has said that he can’t wait to learn from Indian skipper Virat Kohli and other players from the team. Suryakumar has been scoring runs for fun in the domestic arena and had amassed 480 runs for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020. While fans were left disappointed to not see his name for the Australian tour, the Indian selectors rewarded him with a call-up for the England series. "I have already started thinking about how I am going to spend time with all the greats over there,” Suryakumar told Sports Today. ALSO READ: Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test "I will get to learn so much from our captain Virat Kohli and then there is Rohit Sharma, everyone, A-Z all the players. I am really looking forward to spend quality time, grasp as much as I can," Suryakumar added. SKY is one of the three maiden call-up earners in the Indian squad along with Mumbai Indians team-mate and Haryana all-rounder Rahul Tewatia. "There were a few instances during the IPL where I used to dream about winning games for India and I think the opportunity for me has come at the right time. It's on me how I take it and how I make full use of it. ALSO READ: Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts "Not thinking about too much, I would say, I would go one step at a time, take one game at a time. I have a few plan. Obviously, I would love to go ahead and explore in this series," Surya said. All five matches of the T20I series against England in Ahmedabad will be hosted by world’s largest stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

'Will get to learn from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma': Suryakumar Yadav on maiden India call-up

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{01df3afe-fafc-48bf-a4f0-0b4a600f81f2}{205}" paraid="1341303301" >Former Indian cricketer and a legend of the game,&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar on Saturday reacted to Virat Kohli opening up about his battle with depression, where the Indian captain also revealed how a conversation with the Master Blaster&nbsp;"opened up" his mindset.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d636ebfa-45b0-4062-9faf-3dd6c0f5f152}{110}" paraid="587081541" >Tendulkar took to social media platform Twitter as he wrote he is proud of his success and decision to share personal experiences. The former Indian cricketer added that these days youngsters are&nbsp;relentlessly&nbsp;judged on social media while adding we need to listen to them and help them flourish.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{01df3afe-fafc-48bf-a4f0-0b4a600f81f2}{216}" paraid="1222842590" >".@imVkohli, proud of your success &amp; decision to share such personal experiences.&nbsp;These days youngsters are constantly judged on social media. Thousands speak about them but not to them.&nbsp;We need to be able to listen to them and help them flourish,” Tendulkar tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{01df3afe-fafc-48bf-a4f0-0b4a600f81f2}{216}" paraid="1222842590" ><img alt="Sachin Tendulkar tweet on Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4c7c830-eb3d-4d46-bd5e-48f0c139740d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sachin.JPG" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{183d776d-b890-4eba-a6af-a26b54d72af3}{91}" paraid="514480732" >Kohli, on Mark Nicholas’ podcast 'Not Just Cricket' said that he felt depressed during India's tour of England in 2014 – when he went through the worst form of his life – but said that a chat with Tendulkar helped him&nbsp;during that phase.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{688efa2b-9587-4881-8a70-e287a4519aa4}{237}" paraid="142231520" >"I did have a chat with him about the mental side of things as well and the thing that he told me was, in cricket what he experienced was if you are going through a strong negative feeling and if that is coming into your system regularly, it is best to let it pass. If you start fighting that feeling, it grows stronger. So, that is the advice I took on board and my mindset really opened up from then on," Kohli told renowned broadcaster Mark Nicholas on the latter’s podcast ‘Not Just Cricket’.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{688efa2b-9587-4881-8a70-e287a4519aa4}{237}" paraid="142231520" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-like-the-loneliest-guy-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-battle-with-depression-364757" hreflang="en">'Felt like the loneliest guy': Virat Kohli opens up on battle with depression</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8ed3e0da-66be-40f7-91ea-f350b59ec055}{200}" paraid="1674870227" >The Indian skipper further revealed he failed to understand how he would get over the phase while adding he felt like he was the "loneliest guy" in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9d82fd87-4b3e-4ca8-9fae-26b8658bf061}{126}" paraid="947138737" >"I did (feel depressed). It's not a great feeling when wake up knowing that you won't be able to score any runs and I think all batsmen have felt that at some stage or the other that you are not in control of anything at all. And you just don't understand how to get over it. I think when you look back at a very difficult phase, you&nbsp;realise&nbsp;that you had to go through that phase fully to be able to understand what is wrong and rectify and move forward and open yourself up for change. That was a phase where I literally couldn't do anything to overturn what I was going through. I felt like I was the loneliest guy in the world," said Kohli, recalling the England tour back in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9d82fd87-4b3e-4ca8-9fae-26b8658bf061}{135}" paraid="1215775467" >Kohli had averaged a mere 13.50 in India's tour of England in 2014 where he failed to even register a half-century in 10 innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9d82fd87-4b3e-4ca8-9fae-26b8658bf061}{171}" paraid="982210449" >He also said: "For me, personally, that was a revelation that you could feel that lonely even though you a part of a big group. I won't say I didn't have people that I could speak to but not having a professional to speak to who could understand what I am going through completely, I think is a huge factor. I think I would like to see it change. Someone that you can go to at any stage, have a conversation around, and say 'Listen this is what I am feeling, I am finding it hard to even go to sleep, I feel like I don't want to wake up in the morning. I have no confidence in myself, what do I do?'"&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9d82fd87-4b3e-4ca8-9fae-26b8658bf061}{171}" paraid="982210449" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whopping-inr-6144-crore-in-14-years-of-ipl-auction-salary-money-spent-across-cricketers-globally-365017" hreflang="en">Whopping INR 6144 crore in 14 years of IPL: Auction, salary money spent across cricketers globally</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9d82fd87-4b3e-4ca8-9fae-26b8658bf061}{180}" paraid="1551817967" >Kohli will be seen in action against England when both teams take the field for the third Test in Ahmedabad from February 24.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian cricketer and a legend of the game, Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday reacted to Virat Kohli opening up about his battle with depression, where the Indian captain also revealed how a conversation with the Master Blaster "opened up" his mindset.

Former Indian cricketer and a legend of the game, Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday reacted to Virat Kohli opening up about his battle with depression, where the Indian captain also revealed how a conversation with the Master Blaster "opened up" his mindset. Tendulkar took to social media platform Twitter as he wrote he is proud of his success and decision to share personal experiences. The former Indian cricketer added that these days youngsters are relentlessly judged on social media while adding we need to listen to them and help them flourish. ".@imVkohli, proud of your success & decision to share such personal experiences. These days youngsters are constantly judged on social media. Thousands speak about them but not to them. We need to be able to listen to them and help them flourish,” Tendulkar tweeted. Kohli, on Mark Nicholas’ podcast 'Not Just Cricket' said that he felt depressed during India's tour of England in 2014 – when he went through the worst form of his life – but said that a chat with Tendulkar helped him during that phase. "I did have a chat with him about the mental side of things as well and the thing that he told me was, in cricket what he experienced was if you are going through a strong negative feeling and if that is coming into your system regularly, it is best to let it pass. If you start fighting that feeling, it grows stronger. So, that is the advice I took on board and my mindset really opened up from then on," Kohli told renowned broadcaster Mark Nicholas on the latter’s podcast ‘Not Just Cricket’. ALSO READ: 'Felt like the loneliest guy': Virat Kohli opens up on battle with depression The Indian skipper further revealed he failed to understand how he would get over the phase while adding he felt like he was the "loneliest guy" in the world. "I did (feel depressed). It's not a great feeling when wake up knowing that you won't be able to score any runs and I think all batsmen have felt that at some stage or the other that you are not in control of anything at all. And you just don't understand how to get over it. I think when you look back at a very difficult phase, you realise that you had to go through that phase fully to be able to understand what is wrong and rectify and move forward and open yourself up for change. That was a phase where I literally couldn't do anything to overturn what I was going through. I felt like I was the loneliest guy in the world," said Kohli, recalling the England tour back in 2014. Kohli had averaged a mere 13.50 in India's tour of England in 2014 where he failed to even register a half-century in 10 innings. He also said: "For me, personally, that was a revelation that you could feel that lonely even though you a part of a big group. I won't say I didn't have people that I could speak to but not having a professional to speak to who could understand what I am going through completely, I think is a huge factor. I think I would like to see it change. Someone that you can go to at any stage, have a conversation around, and say 'Listen this is what I am feeling, I am finding it hard to even go to sleep, I feel like I don't want to wake up in the morning. I have no confidence in myself, what do I do?'" ALSO READ: Whopping INR 6144 crore in 14 years of IPL: Auction, salary money spent across cricketers globally Kohli will be seen in action against England when both teams take the field for the third Test in Ahmedabad from February 24.

Proud of your success: Sachin Tendulkar reacts after Virat Kohli opens up about battle with depression

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0efc224a-5f4e-4774-8216-dd2cf8cd5dba}{169}" paraid="331856925" >Virat Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batsmen to have ever played cricket, has opened up about his battle with depression during India's tour of England, where the swashbuckling batsman went through the worst form of his life.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9844fc72-340b-445a-993d-8e77a9da3754}{71}" paraid="1631330372" >The Indian skipper has revealed how he felt he was the "loneliest&nbsp;guy in the world" as he&nbsp;narrated&nbsp;his struggle during India's tour of England in 2014, where he averaged a mere 13.50 in 10 innings – his lowest in a series with more than three&nbsp;Tests.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{26b528c3-1306-44d9-a70e-b4e2d3578a57}{35}" paraid="592694541" >When asked&nbsp;by former England first-class cricketer and a renowned commentator Nicholas on his 'Not Just Cricket' podcast, whether he had suffered from depression during India's tour of England in 2014, Kohli answered "Yes, I did".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{26b528c3-1306-44d9-a70e-b4e2d3578a57}{11}" paraid="287586455" >Kohli had returned with scores of&nbsp;1, 8, 25, 0, 39, 28, 0,7, 6 and 20 in five Tests, averaging 13.50 in his 10 innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{26b528c3-1306-44d9-a70e-b4e2d3578a57}{11}" paraid="287586455" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zaheer-khan-mahela-jayawardene-open-up-on-mumbai-indians-signing-arjun-tendulkar-364740" hreflang="en">Zaheer Khan, Mahela Jayawardene open up on Mumbai Indians signing Arjun Tendulkar</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a5f1d914-f078-4be2-a4a3-62f87d819d93}{49}" paraid="972309035" >"...it's not a great feeling to wake up knowing that you won't be able to score runs and I think all batsmen have felt that at some stage that you are not in control of anything at all," he recalled.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a5f1d914-f078-4be2-a4a3-62f87d819d93}{114}" paraid="1359306777" >However, showing his class, Kohli roared back to form in India's next immediate assignment – a tour of Australia – where he hammered 692 runs in the Test series.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{dfa584a8-de15-4682-8ec9-482273ee98b5}{223}" paraid="1205768721" >"You just don't understand how to get over it. That was a phase when I literally couldn't do anything to overturn things...I felt like I was the loneliest guy in the world," he said of the England tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6b72a871-4d50-4ad6-9e1b-1832ebc51e3a}{217}" paraid="640621381" >"Personally, for me, that was a revelation that you could feel that lonely even though you a part of a big group. I won't say I didn't have people who I could speak to but not having a professional to speak to who could understand what I am going through completely, I think is a huge factor.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6b72a871-4d50-4ad6-9e1b-1832ebc51e3a}{217}" paraid="640621381" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-auction-2021-complete-players-list-of-all-eight-squads-364617" hreflang="en">IPL Auction 2021: Complete players list of all eight squads</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6b72a871-4d50-4ad6-9e1b-1832ebc51e3a}{244}" paraid="764193942" >"I think I would like to see it change,” Kohli responded as he said that mental health issues should be an important topic in everyone's life.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4d31c4f6-5ea4-47b7-9751-2c7988d695a7}{10}" paraid="797286365" >"Someone whom you can go to at any stage, have a conversation around and say 'Listen this is what I am feeling, I am finding it hard to even go to sleep, I feel like I don't want to wake up in the morning. I have no confidence in myself, what do I do?'&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{14ab2cff-5143-457e-98ae-da985616e1a3}{25}" paraid="1379566294" >"Lot of people suffer with that feeling for longer periods of time, it carries on for months, it carries on for a whole cricket season, people are not able to get out of it," Kohli said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{14ab2cff-5143-457e-98ae-da985616e1a3}{52}" paraid="1897498105" >"I strongly feel the need for professional help there to be very honest," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{14ab2cff-5143-457e-98ae-da985616e1a3}{70}" paraid="1499669895" ><em>(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;</em></p>


Virat Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batsmen to have ever played cricket, has opened up about his battle with depression during India's tour of England, where the swashbuckling batsman went through the worst form of his life.

Virat Kohli, who is regarded as one of the best batsmen to have ever played cricket, has opened up about his battle with depression during India's tour of England, where the swashbuckling batsman went through the worst form of his life. The Indian skipper has revealed how he felt he was the "loneliest guy in the world" as he narrated his struggle during India's tour of England in 2014, where he averaged a mere 13.50 in 10 innings – his lowest in a series with more than three Tests. When asked by former England first-class cricketer and a renowned commentator Nicholas on his 'Not Just Cricket' podcast, whether he had suffered from depression during India's tour of England in 2014, Kohli answered "Yes, I did". Kohli had returned with scores of 1, 8, 25, 0, 39, 28, 0,7, 6 and 20 in five Tests, averaging 13.50 in his 10 innings. ALSO READ: Zaheer Khan, Mahela Jayawardene open up on Mumbai Indians signing Arjun Tendulkar "...it's not a great feeling to wake up knowing that you won't be able to score runs and I think all batsmen have felt that at some stage that you are not in control of anything at all," he recalled. However, showing his class, Kohli roared back to form in India's next immediate assignment – a tour of Australia – where he hammered 692 runs in the Test series. "You just don't understand how to get over it. That was a phase when I literally couldn't do anything to overturn things...I felt like I was the loneliest guy in the world," he said of the England tour. "Personally, for me, that was a revelation that you could feel that lonely even though you a part of a big group. I won't say I didn't have people who I could speak to but not having a professional to speak to who could understand what I am going through completely, I think is a huge factor. ALSO READ: IPL Auction 2021: Complete players list of all eight squads "I think I would like to see it change,” Kohli responded as he said that mental health issues should be an important topic in everyone's life. "Someone whom you can go to at any stage, have a conversation around and say 'Listen this is what I am feeling, I am finding it hard to even go to sleep, I feel like I don't want to wake up in the morning. I have no confidence in myself, what do I do?' "Lot of people suffer with that feeling for longer periods of time, it carries on for months, it carries on for a whole cricket season, people are not able to get out of it," Kohli said. "I strongly feel the need for professional help there to be very honest," he added. (With PTI inputs)

'Felt like the loneliest guy': Virat Kohli opens up on battle with depression

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b33d3220-b53b-486f-aeb8-f7e024d93087}{203}" paraid="2042639716" >The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8866b7be-8deb-45a0-8154-ca5025bb897a}{108}" paraid="1499937038" >The 317-run margin is also India's fifth-highest ever win by runs as the hosts&nbsp;topped&nbsp;their previous biggest win against England (279-run win) at the&nbsp;Headingley&nbsp;in 1986.&nbsp;Overall, against all the opponents, India's 337-run win against South Africa in Delhi in the 2015-16 series remains the biggest followed by a 321-run win over New Zealand in Indore in 2016-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7cc995a1-4acf-4071-b697-7eea6066b9f8}{248}" paraid="935995037" >Third in the list remains India's massive 320-run win against Australia in Mohali in the 2009 series followed by a 318-run win over the West Indies in North Sound, Antigua in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7cc995a1-4acf-4071-b697-7eea6066b9f8}{248}" paraid="935995037" >ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-never-crib-about-overseas-conditions-r-ashwin-shuts-down-chennai-pitch-critics-364029" hreflang="en">Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{463099ec-2957-4813-890d-b396a30e7ea4}{234}" paraid="1558742709" >Notably, India's five of India's top six highest margins of wins (in terms of runs) have come under the leadership of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{48739035-a540-4aef-bf1d-0534550b9036}{168}" paraid="1341085606" >Biggest Test wins for India (by runs)&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{48739035-a540-4aef-bf1d-0534550b9036}{168}" paraid="1341085606" >337 vs SA Delhi 2015/16&nbsp;<br />
321 vs NZ Indore 2016/17&nbsp;<br />
320 vs Aus Mohali 2008/09&nbsp;<br />
318 vs WI North Sound 2019&nbsp;<br />
317 vs Eng Chennai 2020/21&nbsp;<br />
304 vs SL Galle 2017&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b33d3220-b53b-486f-aeb8-f7e024d93087}{183}" paraid="1333788562" >&nbsp;England lost the second Test&nbsp;in Chennai&nbsp;by 317 runs as India drew level in the four-match series.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7be6c4de-7aa6-4a5a-a4f6-1d9e04288fdd}{106}" paraid="623322828" >"It was a bit strange in the first game to be playing at home with empty stands. We were pretty flat on the first two days over there to be pretty honest, myself included, didn't pick up energy on the field. But from the second innings onwards in the first game, we picked up and were on the money in terms of our body language,” skipper Virat Kohli told host broadcasters in the post-match presentation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7be6c4de-7aa6-4a5a-a4f6-1d9e04288fdd}{106}" paraid="623322828" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7be6c4de-7aa6-4a5a-a4f6-1d9e04288fdd}{154}" paraid="1340397043" >"The crowds make a big&nbsp;difference,&nbsp;this game was an example of the grit and determination this side shows and the crowd is a big part of that. Chennai crowd are very intelligent, they understand their cricket really well. In a&nbsp;15-20 minute&nbsp;period where the bowler needs the support of the crowd, it is my responsibility to involve everyone and bring in the crowd. If I am running in to bowl in this heat, I need people to motivate me. It is a perfect game for us,” he added.&nbsp;</p>


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

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

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

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e32db552-6ba6-4130-9a05-a86388d1a480}{159}" paraid="1879177846" >Indian captain&nbsp;Virat Kohli on Monday lost his cool after the Decision Review System (DRS) ruled out a ‘plumb' LBW decision against England&nbsp;skipper&nbsp;Joe Root just before the end of Day 3's play in the ongoing&nbsp;second&nbsp;Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f4408f29-42f5-4bc8-b0a6-c91081195f6f}{77}" paraid="130653258" >Left-arm spinner&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel had the ball for the last over of Day 3&nbsp;and fired a straighter one to Root, who was caught off-guard. While the Indian team appealed for caught-behind, umpire Nitin Patel gave it a not-out. The Indian team led by Kohli took the DRS but there&nbsp;was no bat involved as suggested by slow-motion replays.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f4408f29-42f5-4bc8-b0a6-c91081195f6f}{77}" paraid="130653258" >However, Root was stuck in his back pad and certainly looked plumb. The ball tracker showed that the ball was hitting the stumps but the impact was just outside the off-stump and hence, the third umpire had to stick to the on-field call of not-out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f4408f29-42f5-4bc8-b0a6-c91081195f6f}{77}" paraid="130653258" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So it's not out for Root but out for Kohli? <a href="https://t.co/MTpCcHaZGF">pic.twitter.com/MTpCcHaZGF</a></p>
— 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐡𝐢𝐥 🇮🇳 (@nrcexe) <a href="https://twitter.com/nrcexe/status/1361277278139813889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh tweeted about the incident as he wrote: "That’s the plumpest LBW I’ve ever seen given not out by DRS. Problem is the DRS went with the umpires call for not out for a caught behind not LBW."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That’s the plumpest LBW I’ve ever seen given not out by DRS. Problem is the DRS went with the umpires call for not out for a caught behind not LBW.</p>
— Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) <a href="https://twitter.com/juniorwaugh349/status/1361277931364884481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-sirajs-celebration-wins-hearts-as-r-ashwin-completes-his-5th-test-century-363786" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century</a></strong></p>

<p>It was a weird decision as India had never appealed for LBW and despite that, the decision by the third umpire was to stick to the on-field call, which was based on a caught-behind appeal. Maybe that irked Virat Kohli as he had a brief conversation with umpire Menon and looked unhappy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e32db552-6ba6-4130-9a05-a86388d1a480}{179}" paraid="623685325" >The incident only triggers more debate as to whether umpire's call should be scrapped.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{19175106-9eff-4d38-87c1-0c1ddf720530}{144}" paraid="1075884031" >Meanwhile, India ended Day 3 of the second Test on the driver's seat and are all set to win the second Test when they take the field on Tuesday. A win by India will level the series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>


Indian captain Virat Kohli on Monday lost his cool after the Decision Review System (DRS) ruled out a ‘plumb' LBW decision against England skipper Joe Root just before the end of Day 3's play in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Indian captain Virat Kohli on Monday lost his cool after the Decision Review System (DRS) ruled out a ‘plumb' LBW decision against England skipper Joe Root just before the end of Day 3's play in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel had the ball for the last over of Day 3 and fired a straighter one to Root, who was caught off-guard. While the Indian team appealed for caught-behind, umpire Nitin Patel gave it a not-out. The Indian team led by Kohli took the DRS but there was no bat involved as suggested by slow-motion replays. However, Root was stuck in his back pad and certainly looked plumb. The ball tracker showed that the ball was hitting the stumps but the impact was just outside the off-stump and hence, the third umpire had to stick to the on-field call of not-out. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! So it's not out for Root but out for Kohli? pic.twitter.com/MTpCcHaZGF — 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐡𝐢𝐥 🇮🇳 (@nrcexe) February 15, 2021 × Former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh tweeted about the incident as he wrote: "That’s the plumpest LBW I’ve ever seen given not out by DRS. Problem is the DRS went with the umpires call for not out for a caught behind not LBW." That’s the plumpest LBW I’ve ever seen given not out by DRS. Problem is the DRS went with the umpires call for not out for a caught behind not LBW. — Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) February 15, 2021 × TRENDING: Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century It was a weird decision as India had never appealed for LBW and despite that, the decision by the third umpire was to stick to the on-field call, which was based on a caught-behind appeal. Maybe that irked Virat Kohli as he had a brief conversation with umpire Menon and looked unhappy. The incident only triggers more debate as to whether umpire's call should be scrapped. Meanwhile, India ended Day 3 of the second Test on the driver's seat and are all set to win the second Test when they take the field on Tuesday. A win by India will level the series 1-1.

Watch: Virat Kohli loses cool after 'umpire's call' hands Joe Root a lifeline

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d07576a6-2eef-4715-bcf3-78fbdefb1a9d}{29}" paraid="502444429" >Ravichandran Ashwin stole the limelight on an eventful Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as the hosts ended the day on the verge of winning the Test match and&nbsp;equalising&nbsp;the series 1-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a60536eb-cae2-4917-8522-9f5f7da124b9}{73}" paraid="163008737" >India, riding on a sensational century by Ashwin and a sublime half-century by Virat Kohli, posted a total of 482 runs. However, England ended up losing&nbsp;three wickets in the final hour of Day 3 with spinners&nbsp;Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel dominating the proceedings with the ball. India could have got the wicket of Dan Lawrence as well but a shoddy 'umpire's call' helped the Englishman survive the final over of the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{36}" paraid="616368949" >India, in the second innings, lost openers Rohit Sharma (26) and Shubman Gill (14) early with Cheteshwar Pujara (7) departing after a freak run-out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{36}" paraid="616368949" ><strong>TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-sirajs-celebration-wins-hearts-as-r-ashwin-completes-his-5th-test-century-363786" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{82}" paraid="112441909" >Rishabh Pant (8), Ajinkya Rahane (10) and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel (7) were also sent back to the hut quickly. However, it was Virat Kohli and Ashwin's resilience and sound technique that helped the duo post some crucial runs on board as they stitched a vital partnership to help India take the game away from England.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{145}" paraid="1966682583" >While England are still in the game with Joe Root and Dan Lawrence unbeaten at the end of Day 3, one can expect the match to wrap up quickly on Day 4 given the kind of form Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;are in.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{120}" paraid="349292717" >England, chasing 482, lost Dom Sibley (3) early. The&nbsp;visitors' decision to send&nbsp;nightwatchman&nbsp;Jack Leach backfired as he was sent packing by&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;for a duck.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{120}" paraid="349292717" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{168}" paraid="218021945" >Rory Burns once again was dismissed by Ashwin as the southpaw continued his struggle with the willow.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{247}" paraid="56438881" >India would be hoping to wrap the proceedings soon on Day 4 and level the series 1-1 after losing the first Test by a mammoth 227-run margin.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{177}" paraid="1498896358" >&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{142}" paraid="1484891651" >&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin stole the limelight on an eventful Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as the hosts ended the day on the verge of winning the Test match and equalising the series 1-1.

Ravichandran Ashwin stole the limelight on an eventful Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as the hosts ended the day on the verge of winning the Test match and equalising the series 1-1. India, riding on a sensational century by Ashwin and a sublime half-century by Virat Kohli, posted a total of 482 runs. However, England ended up losing three wickets in the final hour of Day 3 with spinners Ashwin and Axar Patel dominating the proceedings with the ball. India could have got the wicket of Dan Lawrence as well but a shoddy 'umpire's call' helped the Englishman survive the final over of the day. India, in the second innings, lost openers Rohit Sharma (26) and Shubman Gill (14) early with Cheteshwar Pujara (7) departing after a freak run-out. TRENDING: Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century Rishabh Pant (8), Ajinkya Rahane (10) and Axar Patel (7) were also sent back to the hut quickly. However, it was Virat Kohli and Ashwin's resilience and sound technique that helped the duo post some crucial runs on board as they stitched a vital partnership to help India take the game away from England. While England are still in the game with Joe Root and Dan Lawrence unbeaten at the end of Day 3, one can expect the match to wrap up quickly on Day 4 given the kind of form Ashwin and Axar are in. England, chasing 482, lost Dom Sibley (3) early. The visitors' decision to send nightwatchman Jack Leach backfired as he was sent packing by Axar for a duck. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! Rory Burns once again was dismissed by Ashwin as the southpaw continued his struggle with the willow. India would be hoping to wrap the proceedings soon on Day 4 and level the series 1-1 after losing the first Test by a mammoth 227-run margin.

IND vs ENG 2nd Test: R Ashwin steals show on Day 3 as India stand on verge of leveling series

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{42bd6529-2c93-4bbb-9fc6-20dcd9c80915}{116}" paraid="680433239" >Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored&nbsp;a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{635f0909-63d2-4df5-b4a7-b363cce1e1c6}{192}" paraid="711106217" >While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9fd72db8-250f-4fa4-81d2-da620e5d962e}{68}" paraid="1577851888" >With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134,&nbsp;the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9fd72db8-250f-4fa4-81d2-da620e5d962e}{68}" paraid="1577851888" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ball-starts-to-turn-sunil-gavaskar-hammers-critics-for-slamming-chennai-pitch-in-2nd-test-363703" hreflang="en">'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He may not get a 100 but this <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1361208244258103302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360843448639778818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-gives-thumbs-up-to-top-team-india-363684" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a4c37608-d81b-4dc3-a8c5-da75ccfa279b}{26}" paraid="1977482560" >Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>!<br />
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England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain.<br />
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Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1361210956991369216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> A master class on how to play on a turning track. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/8NYs7fTMAk">pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1361213759889416196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fifty in second innings in first Test.<br />
Fifty in second innings in second Test.<br />
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Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli.</p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361210930525179907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1361207061128839168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna</p>
— A (@_shortarmjab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shortarmjab_/status/1361211855209852931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pitch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pitch</a> <a href="https://t.co/13XNXRw50B">pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B</a></p>
— Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kushalg77328189/status/1361197641594408962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying <a href="https://t.co/Od7in2K9xw">pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw</a></p>
— Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adelaide__141/status/1361216705171656706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their&nbsp;quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for&nbsp;unnecessary&nbsp;slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{233}" paraid="1981234176" >"We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{244}" paraid="346886169" >"Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia&nbsp;get&nbsp;dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{223}" paraid="1118768860" >With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs. While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease. With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior criticising the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134, the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century. ALSO READ: 'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test He may not get a 100 but this @imVkohli innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... #INDvsENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 15, 2021 × It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to equalise the series 1-1. ALSO READ: Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - @imVkohli! England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain. Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 15, 2021 × Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for @imVkohli A master class on how to play on a turning track. #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 15, 2021 × Fifty in second innings in first Test. Fifty in second innings in second Test. Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli. — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. #INDvENG — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 15, 2021 × Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna — A (@_shortarmjab_) February 15, 2021 × Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . #INDvsENG #Pitch pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B — Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) February 15, 2021 × Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw — Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) February 15, 2021 × Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for unnecessary slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai. "We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. "Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia get dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added. With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.

'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch

<p>Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir pointed out two England batsmen that Virat and Co. need to get rid of quickly to get a firm grip on the Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-knew-pitch-was-going-to-turn-was-mentally-prepared-says-rohit-363421" hreflang="en">Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit</a></p>

<p>“The key batters from England’s point of view are Dom Sibley and Joe Root,” Gambhir said on Star Sports at the end of day’s play.</p>

<p>Gambhir felt that Sibley could frustrate Indian bowlers by blocking the ball and said that he does not throw his wicket away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sibley bats time, he’s not gonna throw his wicket away, you have to get him out. He’s a little bit like Pujara. Not gonna compare him as Pujara is in a different league and Sibley is just starting his career. He’s someone who’s got the temperament and you need that when you have to keep blocking to frustrate the bowlers,” Gambhir added.</p>

<p>Root, who's double ton in the first Test ensured a win for England, will be a huge wicket for India. However, Gambhir felt that it won't be easy for strokes players like Root.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s not gonna be easy for stroke players. England can bat pretty well. We’ve seen some unpredictable and unimaginable things happening. But it’s gonna be very difficult for England if India get to 370-375. Axar is going to be dangerous. Kuldeep can probably finish the tail. So different challenges, against a different bowling attack,” Gambhir added.</p>


Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir pointed out two England batsmen that Virat and Co. need to get rid of quickly to get a firm grip on the Test. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit “The key batters from England’s point of view are Dom Sibley and Joe Root,” Gambhir said on Star Sports at the end of day’s play.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir pointed out two England batsmen that Virat and Co. need to get rid of quickly to get a firm grip on the Test. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit “The key batters from England’s point of view are Dom Sibley and Joe Root,” Gambhir said on Star Sports at the end of day’s play. Gambhir felt that Sibley could frustrate Indian bowlers by blocking the ball and said that he does not throw his wicket away. “Sibley bats time, he’s not gonna throw his wicket away, you have to get him out. He’s a little bit like Pujara. Not gonna compare him as Pujara is in a different league and Sibley is just starting his career. He’s someone who’s got the temperament and you need that when you have to keep blocking to frustrate the bowlers,” Gambhir added. Root, who's double ton in the first Test ensured a win for England, will be a huge wicket for India. However, Gambhir felt that it won't be easy for strokes players like Root. “It’s not gonna be easy for stroke players. England can bat pretty well. We’ve seen some unpredictable and unimaginable things happening. But it’s gonna be very difficult for England if India get to 370-375. Axar is going to be dangerous. Kuldeep can probably finish the tail. So different challenges, against a different bowling attack,” Gambhir added.

'Different challenges': Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for

<p>India seized control of the second test after their spinners wreaked havoc on a dustbowl and skittled out England for 134 at Chennai`s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-does-the-whistle-podu-to-get-the-chennai-crowd-going-363578" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going</a><br />
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The hosts finished day two on 54-1 for an overall lead of 249 runs on a deteriorating track.<br />
<br />
Rohit Sharma, who smashed 161 in the first innings, was batting on 25 with Cheteshwar Pujara on seven at the other end.<br />
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Earlier, Moeen Ali and Olly Stone split the last four Indian wickets as the hosts added 29 runs to their overnight score before being all out for 329 in their first innings.<br />
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Rishabh Pant was left stranded on 58 not out, having hit three sixes in his 77-ball blitz.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fleeting-view-prime-minister-narendra-modi-cheers-for-team-india-from-the-skies-363552" hreflang="en">'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies</a></p>

<p>When they returned, India unleashed their three-pronged spin attack as they looked to level the series at 1-1.<br />
<br />
On a pitch where the ball was kicking up dust, England`s reply got off to a woeful start as they lost four wickets before lunch.<br />
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Ishant Sharma trapped Rory Burns lbw for a duck and Dom Sibley fell for 16 after India successfully reviewed a not-out decision.<br />
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Debutant Axar Patel dealt the biggest blow by dismissing Joe Root for six to claim his maiden test wicket.<br />
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The England captain, whose proficiency against spin would have been crucial on this pitch, fluffed his sweep shot offering a top-edge to Ravichandran Ashwin at short fine-leg.<br />
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The touring side`s middle-order caved in after the interval.<br />
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Ashwin claimed the important wicket of Ben Stokes, dismissing the all-rounder bowled for 18.<br />
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India did not feel the need to use second seamer Mohammed Siraj until the 39th over.<br />
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Finally pressed into the attack, Siraj ended Ollie Pope`s promising knock of 22 with his first delivery.<br />
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Ben Foakes, playing his first match of the four-test series, top-scored with an unbeaten 42 as England avoided the follow-on but conceded a first-innings lead of 195 runs.<br />
<br />
Ashwin returned figures of 5-43 while Ishant and Patel claimed two wickets apiece.</p>


India seized control of the second test after their spinners wreaked havoc on a dustbowl and skittled out England for 134 at Chennai`s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.

India seized control of the second test after their spinners wreaked havoc on a dustbowl and skittled out England for 134 at Chennai`s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going The hosts finished day two on 54-1 for an overall lead of 249 runs on a deteriorating track. Rohit Sharma, who smashed 161 in the first innings, was batting on 25 with Cheteshwar Pujara on seven at the other end. Earlier, Moeen Ali and Olly Stone split the last four Indian wickets as the hosts added 29 runs to their overnight score before being all out for 329 in their first innings. Rishabh Pant was left stranded on 58 not out, having hit three sixes in his 77-ball blitz. ALSO READ: 'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies When they returned, India unleashed their three-pronged spin attack as they looked to level the series at 1-1. On a pitch where the ball was kicking up dust, England`s reply got off to a woeful start as they lost four wickets before lunch. Ishant Sharma trapped Rory Burns lbw for a duck and Dom Sibley fell for 16 after India successfully reviewed a not-out decision. Debutant Axar Patel dealt the biggest blow by dismissing Joe Root for six to claim his maiden test wicket. The England captain, whose proficiency against spin would have been crucial on this pitch, fluffed his sweep shot offering a top-edge to Ravichandran Ashwin at short fine-leg. The touring side`s middle-order caved in after the interval. Ashwin claimed the important wicket of Ben Stokes, dismissing the all-rounder bowled for 18. India did not feel the need to use second seamer Mohammed Siraj until the 39th over. Finally pressed into the attack, Siraj ended Ollie Pope`s promising knock of 22 with his first delivery. Ben Foakes, playing his first match of the four-test series, top-scored with an unbeaten 42 as England avoided the follow-on but conceded a first-innings lead of 195 runs. Ashwin returned figures of 5-43 while Ishant and Patel claimed two wickets apiece.

IND vs ENG, Day 2: India stretch lead after spinners wreck England in Chennai

<p>Indian cricket fans returned to the stands after over a year in the second Test match between India and England. Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return. The Indian cricket board have allowed 33,000 fans to enter the MA Chidambaram stadium for the crucial second Test match between India and England.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fleeting-view-prime-minister-narendra-modi-cheers-for-team-india-from-the-skies-363552" hreflang="en">'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies</a></p>

<p>Virat Kohli, who is known to perform well in front of the crowd, was spotted gesturing towards the fans on the stands. The skipper urged them to up the volume and cheer for the team as the bowlers were dismissing the English batsmen. He did a "whistle podu" gesture, which is a catchphrase for Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When in Chennai, you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a>! 👌👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> egging the Chepauk crowd on &amp; they do not disappoint. 👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a><br />
<br />
Follow the match 👉 <a href="https://t.co/Hr7Zk2kjNC">https://t.co/Hr7Zk2kjNC</a> <a href="https://t.co/JR6BfvRqtZ">pic.twitter.com/JR6BfvRqtZ</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1360854727836110850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Despite the club rivalries, skipper Kohli urged the crowd to cheer for the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-overtakes-harbhajan-singh-in-elite-list-after-dismissing-ben-stokes-363543" hreflang="en">Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes</a></p>

<p>Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a five-wicket haul as India restricted England to 134, taking a massive 195-run lead. Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma and &nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara are on the crease as the hosts ended with a lead of 249 runs and nine wickets in hand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India are looking to level the series after losing the opener at the same venue by 227 runs.</p>


Indian cricket fans returned to the stands after over a year in the second Test match between India and England. Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return.

Indian cricket fans returned to the stands after over a year in the second Test match between India and England. Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return. The Indian cricket board have allowed 33,000 fans to enter the MA Chidambaram stadium for the crucial second Test match between India and England. ALSO READ: 'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies Virat Kohli, who is known to perform well in front of the crowd, was spotted gesturing towards the fans on the stands. The skipper urged them to up the volume and cheer for the team as the bowlers were dismissing the English batsmen. He did a "whistle podu" gesture, which is a catchphrase for Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings. When in Chennai, you #WhistlePodu! 👌👌#TeamIndia skipper @imVkohli egging the Chepauk crowd on & they do not disappoint. 👏👏 @Paytm #INDvENG Follow the match 👉 https://t.co/Hr7Zk2kjNC pic.twitter.com/JR6BfvRqtZ — BCCI (@BCCI) February 14, 2021 × Despite the club rivalries, skipper Kohli urged the crowd to cheer for the team. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a five-wicket haul as India restricted England to 134, taking a massive 195-run lead. Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara are on the crease as the hosts ended with a lead of 249 runs and nine wickets in hand. India are looking to level the series after losing the opener at the same venue by 227 runs.

WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going

<p>The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a></p>

<p>Opener Rohit Sharma's 161 runs powered India to a healthy total and his partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane took the hosts from 86/3 to 248/4. Rishabh Pant (33 runs) and debutant Axar Patel (5 runs) remained on the crease when India were on 300 before the bails were off.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli won an important toss and decided to bat first. However, the hosts suffered a major setback in the first over as Shubman Gill was out on a duck in the very first over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 86-run stand between Pujara and Sharma tried stabilising Indian innings. But Moeen Ali's ripper removed Pujara and skipper Kohli in one over putting immense pressure on hosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-reaction-after-rohit-sharmas-shot-against-stuart-broad-363343" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad</a></p>

<p>However, Rohit and Rahane attacked England's spinners to build a 162-run partnership put India on top. Leach got the better of Rohit and the opener was out after scoring 161 runs, whereas, Moeen Ali cleaned up Ajinkya Rahane, who was playing at 67.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant added some finishing touch as India ended their day with 300 runs on-board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moeen Ali and Jack Leach took two wickets each. Olly Stone and skipper Joe Root got one wicket apiece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will look to build on this mammoth score and will hope the pitch deteriorates so that spinners could trouble the English batting line up.&nbsp;</p>


The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium.

The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Opener Rohit Sharma's 161 runs powered India to a healthy total and his partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane took the hosts from 86/3 to 248/4. Rishabh Pant (33 runs) and debutant Axar Patel (5 runs) remained on the crease when India were on 300 before the bails were off. Indian skipper Virat Kohli won an important toss and decided to bat first. However, the hosts suffered a major setback in the first over as Shubman Gill was out on a duck in the very first over. The 86-run stand between Pujara and Sharma tried stabilising Indian innings. But Moeen Ali's ripper removed Pujara and skipper Kohli in one over putting immense pressure on hosts. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad However, Rohit and Rahane attacked England's spinners to build a 162-run partnership put India on top. Leach got the better of Rohit and the opener was out after scoring 161 runs, whereas, Moeen Ali cleaned up Ajinkya Rahane, who was playing at 67. Pant added some finishing touch as India ended their day with 300 runs on-board. Moeen Ali and Jack Leach took two wickets each. Olly Stone and skipper Joe Root got one wicket apiece. India will look to build on this mammoth score and will hope the pitch deteriorates so that spinners could trouble the English batting line up.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian vice-captains keep hosts on top after Day 1

<p>After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a></p>

<p>Kohli, who was all padded up in the dressing room, was overjoyed by the shot and cheered for Rohit Sharma.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yes boy ! : Virat Kohli<br />
applauding Rohit Sharma 's glorious cover drive.💙<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/4v7CAYz4KI">pic.twitter.com/4v7CAYz4KI</a></p>
— 🄿 ♚ (@Rarefieed) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rarefieed/status/1360472078265192450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Despite Kohli's&nbsp;dismissal, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 100-run stand helped India to 189 runs at the loss of three wickets by the end of the second session.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/way-to-go-batting-legend-vivian-richards-bats-for-freedomfortibet-363321" hreflang="en">'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet</a></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma scored his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months) and is going strong with Rahane.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.</p>

<p>Team India have made three changes ahead of the match, they have rested Jasprit Bumrah and brought in Mohammed Siraj. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who is making his Test debut, and Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav replace left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem and off-spinner Washington Sundar, respectively.</p>


After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad.

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Kohli, who was all padded up in the dressing room, was overjoyed by the shot and cheered for Rohit Sharma. Yes boy ! : Virat Kohli applauding Rohit Sharma 's glorious cover drive.💙 #RohitSharma #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/4v7CAYz4KI — 🄿 ♚ (@Rarefieed) February 13, 2021 × Despite Kohli's dismissal, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 100-run stand helped India to 189 runs at the loss of three wickets by the end of the second session. ALSO READ: 'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet Rohit Sharma scored his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months) and is going strong with Rahane. Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship. Team India have made three changes ahead of the match, they have rested Jasprit Bumrah and brought in Mohammed Siraj. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who is making his Test debut, and Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav replace left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem and off-spinner Washington Sundar, respectively.

WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad

<p>After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara's 85-run partnership tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, after Pujara's wicket, skipper Virat Kohli came on the crease to contribute but ended up following Cheteshwar after being clean bowled. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-indian-fans-return-to-chepauk-to-cheer-for-virat-and-co-363314" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian fans return to Chepauk to cheer for Virat and co.</a></p>

<p>Moeen Ali tempted Kohli to play the cover drive, but the ball went on to crash on the top of the centre stump as India was lowered to 86 for 3. Kohli was in disbelief as he stood there checking with non-striker Rohit Sharma and the umpires if the ball had hit the stumps because the commentators on air questioned if the stumps had been disturbed by the wicket-keeper’s gloves.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here’s a slo-mo of Virat Kohli’s wicket bowled by Moeen Ali <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/LASYLwiiR1">pic.twitter.com/LASYLwiiR1</a></p>
— AmirCXN (@cxn_amir) <a href="https://twitter.com/cxn_amir/status/1360476087340331009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ali's classic off-break delivery shocked the fans present at the MA Chidambaram too. This was Indian captain Virat Kohli's 11th duck in Test cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO SEE:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/way-to-go-batting-legend-vivian-richards-bats-for-freedomfortibet-363321" hreflang="en">'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet</a></p>

<p>However, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 70-run stand helped India go past 150 runs at the loss of three wickets. Rohit Sharma went on to score his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months).</p>

<p>Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.</p>


After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara's 85-run partnership tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, after Pujara's wicket, skipper Virat Kohli came on the crease to contribute but ended up following Cheteshwar after being clean bowled.

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara's 85-run partnership tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, after Pujara's wicket, skipper Virat Kohli came on the crease to contribute but ended up following Cheteshwar after being clean bowled. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian fans return to Chepauk to cheer for Virat and co. Moeen Ali tempted Kohli to play the cover drive, but the ball went on to crash on the top of the centre stump as India was lowered to 86 for 3. Kohli was in disbelief as he stood there checking with non-striker Rohit Sharma and the umpires if the ball had hit the stumps because the commentators on air questioned if the stumps had been disturbed by the wicket-keeper’s gloves. Here’s a slo-mo of Virat Kohli’s wicket bowled by Moeen Ali #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/LASYLwiiR1 — AmirCXN (@cxn_amir) February 13, 2021 × Ali's classic off-break delivery shocked the fans present at the MA Chidambaram too. This was Indian captain Virat Kohli's 11th duck in Test cricket. ALSO SEE: 'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet However, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 70-run stand helped India go past 150 runs at the loss of three wickets. Rohit Sharma went on to score his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months). Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.

Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper

<p>India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that the MA Chidambaram Stadium wicket for the second Test against England is a completely different from the one used for the first Test and will turn from Day One.<br />
<br />
"It (pitch) will be completely different. I am sure it will turn from day number one but again as I said before the first Test match, we will have to wait and see how it plays in the first session and then take it from there. We have to forget what happened in the first Test match and focus on this and play good cricket. We know these conditions very well. We have to put our best foot forward tomorrow and play as a team," said Rahane while speaking to the media on the eve of the second Test.<br />
<br />
While the first Test -- which England won by 227 runs -- was played on a red soil pitch, the second Test will be played on a pitch which is a mixture of black and red soil. The surface has a topping of black soil. It has also not been watered because the gap between the first two Tests was just three days and with black soil retaining more water, the pitch wouldn`t have dried.<br />
<br />
The Indian cricket board (BCCI) had packed off its curator after the first Test following complaints from Indian cricketers like Ishant Sharma that it was flat on the first two days, even though there was huge praise for the pitch that lasted five days.<br />
<br />
The pitch for the second Test has been prepared under the supervision of the Indian team management and it is no surprise that Rahane is saying that it would turn from Day One.<br />
<br />
"Wickets are different, we need to adjust. We have played plenty of cricket in Chennai. We are (playing) back-to-back Tests at one venue for the first time," said Rahane upon being asked about the challenge of playing back-to-back Test matches at the same venue.<br />
<br />
He, however, refused to confirm the playing XI or even the 12.<br />
<br />
"Everyone is in the mix. Good thing is that (left-arm spinner) Axar (Patel) is fit. I am not going to tell you who will play tomorrow but Axar is fit to play. All our spinners are very good. Given a chance they will do well," he added.<br />
<br />
Rahane also defended skipper Virat Kohli, saying that he remains the only captain of the team.<br />
<br />
"Sometimes it happens, there is no such energy. But it doesn`t mean that change in captaincy will happen. Sometimes body language can be down especially (the way it was panning out) in the first two days," said Rahane.<br />
<br />
He also spoke on Indians dropping too many catches and bowling no-balls in the first Test, saying that the team members are working hard on it.<br />
<br />
"There will be incidents where catches are dropped? we need to practice hard, especially close-in catching which is very important in India. Sometimes these things happen. No one drops intentionally. Guys are working hard. They all are disappointed what happened in the last game about the no-balls, they are working hard (to ensure the mistakes aren`t repeated)."</p>


India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that the MA Chidambaram Stadium wicket for the second Test against England is a completely different from the one used for the first Test and will turn from Day One.

India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that the MA Chidambaram Stadium wicket for the second Test against England is a completely different from the one used for the first Test and will turn from Day One. "It (pitch) will be completely different. I am sure it will turn from day number one but again as I said before the first Test match, we will have to wait and see how it plays in the first session and then take it from there. We have to forget what happened in the first Test match and focus on this and play good cricket. We know these conditions very well. We have to put our best foot forward tomorrow and play as a team," said Rahane while speaking to the media on the eve of the second Test. While the first Test -- which England won by 227 runs -- was played on a red soil pitch, the second Test will be played on a pitch which is a mixture of black and red soil. The surface has a topping of black soil. It has also not been watered because the gap between the first two Tests was just three days and with black soil retaining more water, the pitch wouldn`t have dried. The Indian cricket board (BCCI) had packed off its curator after the first Test following complaints from Indian cricketers like Ishant Sharma that it was flat on the first two days, even though there was huge praise for the pitch that lasted five days. The pitch for the second Test has been prepared under the supervision of the Indian team management and it is no surprise that Rahane is saying that it would turn from Day One. "Wickets are different, we need to adjust. We have played plenty of cricket in Chennai. We are (playing) back-to-back Tests at one venue for the first time," said Rahane upon being asked about the challenge of playing back-to-back Test matches at the same venue. He, however, refused to confirm the playing XI or even the 12. "Everyone is in the mix. Good thing is that (left-arm spinner) Axar (Patel) is fit. I am not going to tell you who will play tomorrow but Axar is fit to play. All our spinners are very good. Given a chance they will do well," he added. Rahane also defended skipper Virat Kohli, saying that he remains the only captain of the team. "Sometimes it happens, there is no such energy. But it doesn`t mean that change in captaincy will happen. Sometimes body language can be down especially (the way it was panning out) in the first two days," said Rahane. He also spoke on Indians dropping too many catches and bowling no-balls in the first Test, saying that the team members are working hard on it. "There will be incidents where catches are dropped? we need to practice hard, especially close-in catching which is very important in India. Sometimes these things happen. No one drops intentionally. Guys are working hard. They all are disappointed what happened in the last game about the no-balls, they are working hard (to ensure the mistakes aren`t repeated)."

I'm sure the pitch for 2nd Test will turn from Day One: Rahane

<p>Team India's crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first test match at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has raised a lot of questions like the exclusion of the Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI, India's batting form and to top it all, Virat Kohli's captaincy. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-india-skipper-virat-kohli-slips-to-fifth-spot-as-joe-root-enters-top-3-362638" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3</a></p>

<p>After the match ended, here's what Kohli said: “I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash, were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure. Having said that, it was a slow wicket and not helping the bowlers which made it easy for the batsmen to rotate strike and get into the game,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation.</p>

<p>“That's a fair assessment (the fourth and fifth bowlers not being up to the mark). You need your bowling unit to step up and create pressure on the opposition. We didn't achieve that in this game which is fine, lack of execution is acceptable but to understand our mindset was right is very important for us. I think we did well in the second innings with the ball and put pressure on them. With the bat as well, we left a few things to be desired and analysed as batsmen with the kind of decisions we took. We are always learning as a side and evolving as a side and Test cricket is tough. England were ready for that grind and probably better equipped than us."</p>

<p><img alt="ddd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4b31d44-268c-4606-ba7f-bd6fd5c65f58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_53.jpg" /></p>

<p>Better equipped? Well, Indian team has top-ranked bowlers, and batsmen, who were motivated after a brilliant end to the Australia series. Our batsmen have faced the toughest bowling attack (Australia's) but failed to defend or attack the English bowlers at home turf. Hats off to Anderson though! At the age of 38, he is ageing like fine wine. Ask Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane after those scorching reverse-swinging deliveries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Has 'King Kohli' lost too many battles to hold his position? Last four test matches under Kohli's leadership have resulted in a loss. 2-0 whitewash against New Zealand, India's Adelaide loss (Where Virat and Co. were bundled out in 36 runs), and now the loss in Chennai against Joe Root's England. Has Virat Kohli's luck run out? From being the most successful captain to the current situation. I feel so! &nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team to 33 wins, including the team's first-ever win Down Under. &nbsp;However, Team India under Kohli has also suffered 14 defeats and 10 draws. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Team's first defeat in Chennai since 1999 has&nbsp;ended India’s 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. Many cricketing experts and fans (including me) believe that Kohli's career as the captain could end. I feel that Virat Kohli should now focus on his career as the batsman as he looks in too much pressure when he comes out to bat. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In my opinion, tosses do determine the course of the match and Kohli, clearly, is unlucky when it comes to it. Let's not forget IPL 2019, where Kohli famously gestured saying that he lost his ninth toss in 12 matches. His record of tosses has been really poor, although that's not in his hands. I feel the toss played a major role in the loss against England. I have been a fan of Virat Kohli, the batsman! He seems fearless and a major threat to the opposition. But in recent years, it feels as if the pressure of captaincy has got to him. The last century Virat scored was back in November 2019. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He has proved his calibre as India's Test captain, but it seems like the time has come to pass on the mantle. Dhoni surprised everyone when he decided to retire from Tests after a poor show in back-to-back series. However, I would not want Virat to retire, in fact, revive his career as the prolific batsman.</p>

<p>Talks of multiple captains in Team India have been doing rounds for some time now. Rohit Sharma for T20Is, Virat Kohli for ODIs and Ajinkya Rahane for Test. &nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="xc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ebdfdc8-1dd7-47ca-ad5d-2ebdb9ce0596" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_47.jpg" /></p>

<p>Agreed, Virat Kohli brought aggression and passion to the Indian team under his captaincy, but Indian players need a much more relaxed leader. Despite being at a losing stage in Australia, Team India bounced back with an amateur playing XI with patience and much-needed resilience.</p>

<p>The playing XI choices under Kohli have been somewhat questionable. From including out of form Shaw for the Adelaide Test to omitting much-experienced Kuldeep Yadav for much inexperienced (in international stage) Shahbaz Nadeem, who failed to leave an impact in the match. Washington Sundar could also be criticised for his bowling in the first match, but his strong knock in the second innings justified his place in the playing XI. Sundar has proved himself from the very first Test (in Australia). With Jadeja's injury, India are definitely on back-foot! But Yadav could have done much better than Nadeem! &nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Kohli said that there were "no regrets" for choosing Nadeem over Yadav. &nbsp;</p>

<p>I am a Virat Kohli FAN! I am! But I feel the series will be the litmus test for Virat Kohli's calibre as a captain. He has had a prolific record in Test cricket as the captain, but it is definitely deteriorating and I don't want him to ruin his record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>I will end my piece with a line from Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight, "You either die a HERO, or live long enough to see yourself become the Villain!"</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>


Team India's crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first test match at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has raised a lot of questions like the exclusion of the Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI, India's batting form and to top it all, Virat Kohli's captaincy.

Team India's crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first test match at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has raised a lot of questions like the exclusion of the Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI, India's batting form and to top it all, Virat Kohli's captaincy. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3 After the match ended, here's what Kohli said: “I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash, were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure. Having said that, it was a slow wicket and not helping the bowlers which made it easy for the batsmen to rotate strike and get into the game,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. “That's a fair assessment (the fourth and fifth bowlers not being up to the mark). You need your bowling unit to step up and create pressure on the opposition. We didn't achieve that in this game which is fine, lack of execution is acceptable but to understand our mindset was right is very important for us. I think we did well in the second innings with the ball and put pressure on them. With the bat as well, we left a few things to be desired and analysed as batsmen with the kind of decisions we took. We are always learning as a side and evolving as a side and Test cricket is tough. England were ready for that grind and probably better equipped than us." Better equipped? Well, Indian team has top-ranked bowlers, and batsmen, who were motivated after a brilliant end to the Australia series. Our batsmen have faced the toughest bowling attack (Australia's) but failed to defend or attack the English bowlers at home turf. Hats off to Anderson though! At the age of 38, he is ageing like fine wine. Ask Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane after those scorching reverse-swinging deliveries. Has 'King Kohli' lost too many battles to hold his position? Last four test matches under Kohli's leadership have resulted in a loss. 2-0 whitewash against New Zealand, India's Adelaide loss (Where Virat and Co. were bundled out in 36 runs), and now the loss in Chennai against Joe Root's England. Has Virat Kohli's luck run out? From being the most successful captain to the current situation. I feel so! Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team to 33 wins, including the team's first-ever win Down Under. However, Team India under Kohli has also suffered 14 defeats and 10 draws. Team's first defeat in Chennai since 1999 has ended India’s 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. Many cricketing experts and fans (including me) believe that Kohli's career as the captain could end. I feel that Virat Kohli should now focus on his career as the batsman as he looks in too much pressure when he comes out to bat. In my opinion, tosses do determine the course of the match and Kohli, clearly, is unlucky when it comes to it. Let's not forget IPL 2019, where Kohli famously gestured saying that he lost his ninth toss in 12 matches. His record of tosses has been really poor, although that's not in his hands. I feel the toss played a major role in the loss against England. I have been a fan of Virat Kohli, the batsman! He seems fearless and a major threat to the opposition. But in recent years, it feels as if the pressure of captaincy has got to him. The last century Virat scored was back in November 2019. He has proved his calibre as India's Test captain, but it seems like the time has come to pass on the mantle. Dhoni surprised everyone when he decided to retire from Tests after a poor show in back-to-back series. However, I would not want Virat to retire, in fact, revive his career as the prolific batsman. Talks of multiple captains in Team India have been doing rounds for some time now. Rohit Sharma for T20Is, Virat Kohli for ODIs and Ajinkya Rahane for Test. Agreed, Virat Kohli brought aggression and passion to the Indian team under his captaincy, but Indian players need a much more relaxed leader. Despite being at a losing stage in Australia, Team India bounced back with an amateur playing XI with patience and much-needed resilience. The playing XI choices under Kohli have been somewhat questionable. From including out of form Shaw for the Adelaide Test to omitting much-experienced Kuldeep Yadav for much inexperienced (in international stage) Shahbaz Nadeem, who failed to leave an impact in the match. Washington Sundar could also be criticised for his bowling in the first match, but his strong knock in the second innings justified his place in the playing XI. Sundar has proved himself from the very first Test (in Australia). With Jadeja's injury, India are definitely on back-foot! But Yadav could have done much better than Nadeem! However, Kohli said that there were "no regrets" for choosing Nadeem over Yadav. I am a Virat Kohli FAN! I am! But I feel the series will be the litmus test for Virat Kohli's calibre as a captain. He has had a prolific record in Test cricket as the captain, but it is definitely deteriorating and I don't want him to ruin his record. I will end my piece with a line from Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight, "You either die a HERO, or live long enough to see yourself become the Villain!" (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: No centuries, no victories, time up for Virat Kohli the captain? 

<p>Olympic medalist Yohan Black took to social media to express his admiration towards the Indian cricket team and skipper Virat Kohli and his captaincy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-live-streams-india-vs-england-chennai-test-at-wedding-venue-photograph-goes-viral-362460" hreflang="en">Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral</a><br />
&nbsp;<br />
The Jamaican sprinter, who won gold at the 100 m at the 2011 World Championships as the youngest 100m world champion ever commented after India were thrashed by England in the first Test match at Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What I really love about Team India is that Virat Kohli doesn't find any excuses. That's what I really love about his captaincy, he took the blame for everything. He said the bowlers didn't find the right areas, the batsmen were not as consistent. He said 'we got to go back to the drawing board and come back'. And that's what I love about Virat Kohli and his captaincy," Blake said in a video uploaded on his Instagram.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is what test cricket 🏏 is all about. <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECB_cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MichaelVaughan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jimmy9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jimmy9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RealShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealShubmanGill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/testcricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#testcricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a>. <a href="https://t.co/z6ZpbCQAh6">pic.twitter.com/z6ZpbCQAh6</a></p>
— Yohan Blake (@YohanBlake) <a href="https://twitter.com/YohanBlake/status/1359214263659884548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-factor-held-england-back-from-early-declaration-joe-root-362495" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant factor held England back from early declaration: Joe Root</a></p>

<p>The sprinter went on to talk about Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, who played well in the first Test despite the loss and lauded Pujara's spoils during the Australia tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And also, what stood out for me was Shubman Gill, he's a wonderful batsman. Of course, Rishabh Pant is excellent. Not every time he's going to put on a show but he's excellent for the game of Test cricket. That's why I love Test cricket, it mentally tests you. (Cheteshwar) Pujara in Australia showed that wonderful fight and that's what I love to see," Blake said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-tweets-in-hindi-reminds-fans-of-his-warning-following-chennai-test-362478" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test</a></p>

<p>"Test cricket is absolutely the best. The second Test should be interesting, India was 1-0 down in Australia, they are 1-0 down at their home ground now. The second Test, I'm looking forward to it."</p>


Olympic medalist Yohan Black took to social media to express his admiration towards the Indian cricket team and skipper Virat Kohli and his captaincy. ALSO READ: Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral The Jamaican sprinter, who won gold at the 100 m at the 2011 World Championships as the youngest 100m world champion ever commented after India were thrashed by England in the first Test match at Chennai.

Olympic medalist Yohan Black took to social media to express his admiration towards the Indian cricket team and skipper Virat Kohli and his captaincy. ALSO READ: Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral The Jamaican sprinter, who won gold at the 100 m at the 2011 World Championships as the youngest 100m world champion ever commented after India were thrashed by England in the first Test match at Chennai. "What I really love about Team India is that Virat Kohli doesn't find any excuses. That's what I really love about his captaincy, he took the blame for everything. He said the bowlers didn't find the right areas, the batsmen were not as consistent. He said 'we got to go back to the drawing board and come back'. And that's what I love about Virat Kohli and his captaincy," Blake said in a video uploaded on his Instagram. This is what test cricket 🏏 is all about. @BCCI @ECB_cricket @SkyCricket @MichaelVaughan @root66 @imVkohli @jimmy9 @RealShubmanGill @RishabhPant17 @cheteshwar1 #testcricket #Cricket #INDvsENG. pic.twitter.com/z6ZpbCQAh6 — Yohan Blake (@YohanBlake) February 9, 2021 × ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant factor held England back from early declaration: Joe Root The sprinter went on to talk about Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, who played well in the first Test despite the loss and lauded Pujara's spoils during the Australia tour. "And also, what stood out for me was Shubman Gill, he's a wonderful batsman. Of course, Rishabh Pant is excellent. Not every time he's going to put on a show but he's excellent for the game of Test cricket. That's why I love Test cricket, it mentally tests you. (Cheteshwar) Pujara in Australia showed that wonderful fight and that's what I love to see," Blake said. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test "Test cricket is absolutely the best. The second Test should be interesting, India was 1-0 down in Australia, they are 1-0 down at their home ground now. The second Test, I'm looking forward to it."

WATCH: Olympic medalist Yohan Blake praises Indian cricket team and Virat Kohli

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli has slipped to number five in the &nbsp;ICC Test rankings as England captain Joe Root enters the top three spot. The International Cricket Council released the updated rankings after India's loss to England in the first Test at Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-and-ive-virat-kohli-gives-his-insight-on-rahanes-performance-in-chennai-test-362586" hreflang="en">'Ajinkya and I’ve..': Virat Kohli gives his insight on Rahane's performance in Chennai Test</a></p>

<p>Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson topped the rankings with 919 test batting rating points, and Australia's Steve Smith held the second spot. Joe Root entered the third spot after his magnificent double ton in the first Test against India. The Briton jumped two ranks and currently has 883rankings in his pocket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aussie young gun Marnus Labuschagne slipped to the fourth rank in the ICC Test rankings with 878 rating points.</p>

<p>Pakistan skipper &nbsp;Babar Azam also slipped to the sixth rank with 760 points&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara demoted to the seventh rank with 754 points. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>CURRENT RANKINGS:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kane Williamson &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; NZ &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 919<br />
2 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Steve Smith &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;AUS&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;891<br />
3 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Joe Root&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ENG &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;883<br />
4 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Marnus Labuschagne &nbsp; AUS&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 878<br />
5 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Virat Kohli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;IND&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;852<br />
6 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Babar Azam&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; PAK&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 760<br />
7 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;IND&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;754<br />
8 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Henry Nicholls&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; NZ&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;747<br />
9 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ENG&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 746<br />
10 &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;David Warner&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;AUS&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 724</strong></p>

<p>Team India suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first Test at Chennai. England are 1-0 up in the four-match Test series against India. Virat and Co. need to win the remaining three matches or draw one and win two to seal a berth in the finals of World Test Championship.&nbsp;</p>


Skipper Virat Kohli has slipped to number five in the ICC Test rankings as England captain Joe Root enters the top three spot. The International Cricket Council released the updated rankings after India's loss to England in the first Test at Chennai.

Skipper Virat Kohli has slipped to number five in the ICC Test rankings as England captain Joe Root enters the top three spot. The International Cricket Council released the updated rankings after India's loss to England in the first Test at Chennai. ALSO READ: 'Ajinkya and I’ve..': Virat Kohli gives his insight on Rahane's performance in Chennai Test Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson topped the rankings with 919 test batting rating points, and Australia's Steve Smith held the second spot. Joe Root entered the third spot after his magnificent double ton in the first Test against India. The Briton jumped two ranks and currently has 883rankings in his pocket. Aussie young gun Marnus Labuschagne slipped to the fourth rank in the ICC Test rankings with 878 rating points. Pakistan skipper Babar Azam also slipped to the sixth rank with 760 points Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara demoted to the seventh rank with 754 points. CURRENT RANKINGS: 1 Kane Williamson NZ 919 2 Steve Smith AUS 891 3 Joe Root ENG 883 4 Marnus Labuschagne AUS 878 5 Virat Kohli IND 852 6 Babar Azam PAK 760 7 Cheteshwar Pujara IND 754 8 Henry Nicholls NZ 747 9 Ben Stokes ENG 746 10 David Warner AUS 724 Team India suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first Test at Chennai. England are 1-0 up in the four-match Test series against India. Virat and Co. need to win the remaining three matches or draw one and win two to seal a berth in the finals of World Test Championship.

ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3

<p>Team India suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first Test at Chennai. Skipper Kohli talked about a lot of things that didn't go in India's favour and which they would like to improve in future.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-and-ive-virat-kohli-gives-his-insight-on-rahanes-performance-in-chennai-test-362586" hreflang="en">'Ajinkya and I’ve..': Virat Kohli gives his insight on Rahane's performance in Chennai Test</a></p>

<p>However, Kohli talked about wicketkeeper Pant and his funny comments behind the stumps. According to Virat, Pant's funny remarks behind the stumps are something that keeps the energy levels going for India.</p>

<p>Pant was heard saying things like My name is Washington and I wanna go DC’ and called out Cheteshwar Pujara as ‘Pujinder’ during the first Test against England.</p>

<p>Speaking about his antics, Kohli said, “He's (Pant) a guy who likes to have fun on the field. That’s his personality and essence. We want him to continue doing that manner because that keeps the boys entertained and conversation out there is very helpful when the situation is tough and the things are not going your way.”</p>

<p>“His personality is very helpful for the team. He brings in a lot of energy and we want him to continue the same way,” the Indian captain added.</p>

<p>England are 1-0 up in the four-match Test series against India. Virat and Co. need to win the remaining three matches or draw one and win two to seal a berth in the finals of World Test Championship.&nbsp;</p>


Team India suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first Test at Chennai. Skipper Kohli talked about a lot of things that didn't go in India's favour and which they would like to improve in future.

Team India suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of England in the first Test at Chennai. Skipper Kohli talked about a lot of things that didn't go in India's favour and which they would like to improve in future. ALSO READ: 'Ajinkya and I’ve..': Virat Kohli gives his insight on Rahane's performance in Chennai Test However, Kohli talked about wicketkeeper Pant and his funny comments behind the stumps. According to Virat, Pant's funny remarks behind the stumps are something that keeps the energy levels going for India. Pant was heard saying things like My name is Washington and I wanna go DC’ and called out Cheteshwar Pujara as ‘Pujinder’ during the first Test against England. Speaking about his antics, Kohli said, “He's (Pant) a guy who likes to have fun on the field. That’s his personality and essence. We want him to continue doing that manner because that keeps the boys entertained and conversation out there is very helpful when the situation is tough and the things are not going your way.” “His personality is very helpful for the team. He brings in a lot of energy and we want him to continue the same way,” the Indian captain added. England are 1-0 up in the four-match Test series against India. Virat and Co. need to win the remaining three matches or draw one and win two to seal a berth in the finals of World Test Championship.

'His personality is very helpful': Virat Kohli on Rishabh Pant's antics behind the stumps

<p><strong>Team India's playing XI </strong>for the first Test against England left many puzzled as <strong>Kuldeep Yadav</strong>'s name was omitted from the list.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-creates-new-record-during-fourth-innings-of-chennai-test-362382" hreflang="en">Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test</a></p>

<p>Due to Axar Patel's knee injury, many cricketing experts felt Kuldeep could be selected for the match, however, Shahbaz Nadeem was chosen instead. Nadeem's inclusion came as a surprise as he was not the part of the original India squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After losing the <strong>first Test to England, Kohli </strong>was asked about the reasons behind not playing Kuldeep in the first Test to which he replied that he does not regret the decision.</p>

<p>"Not really, not at all. When you playing two off-spinners, Kuldeep becomes more or less same kind of spinner taking the ball away," Kohli said at the press conference.</p>

<p><b>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-captaincy-career-could-end-if-india-lose-2nd-test-against-england-monty-panesar-to-wion-362418" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli's captaincy career could end if India lose 2nd Test against England: Monty Panesar to WION</a></p>

<p>"We were quite clear on what we wanted to play, what combination we wanted to play. There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision. Moving forward, we will think of combinations, which brings us variety as a bowling attack," he added.</p>

<p>"And not one dimensional, turning away from the bat. These things are very important to bat," Kohli further said.</p>

<p>Visitors England registered a mammoth 227-run over hosts as James Anderson and James Leach produced great bowling spells to crumble India's batting order on Day 5 of the first Test, taking a lead of 1-0 in the series.</p>


Team India's playing XI for the first Test against England left many puzzled as Kuldeep Yadav's name was omitted from the list. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test Due to Axar Patel's knee injury, many cricketing experts felt Kuldeep could be selected for the match, however, Shahbaz Nadeem was chosen instead.

Team India's playing XI for the first Test against England left many puzzled as Kuldeep Yadav's name was omitted from the list. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test Due to Axar Patel's knee injury, many cricketing experts felt Kuldeep could be selected for the match, however, Shahbaz Nadeem was chosen instead. Nadeem's inclusion came as a surprise as he was not the part of the original India squad. After losing the first Test to England, Kohli was asked about the reasons behind not playing Kuldeep in the first Test to which he replied that he does not regret the decision. "Not really, not at all. When you playing two off-spinners, Kuldeep becomes more or less same kind of spinner taking the ball away," Kohli said at the press conference. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's captaincy career could end if India lose 2nd Test against England: Monty Panesar to WION "We were quite clear on what we wanted to play, what combination we wanted to play. There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision. Moving forward, we will think of combinations, which brings us variety as a bowling attack," he added. "And not one dimensional, turning away from the bat. These things are very important to bat," Kohli further said. Visitors England registered a mammoth 227-run over hosts as James Anderson and James Leach produced great bowling spells to crumble India's batting order on Day 5 of the first Test, taking a lead of 1-0 in the series.

'There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision': Virat Kohli on Kuldeep Yadav's omission from playing XI

<p class="MsoNormal">India on Tuesday suffered a shocking 227-run defeat against England in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team, who had scripted history in Australia, tasted their first defeat in Chennai since 1999 and the crushing loss brings an end to their 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">After the heavy defeat, Indian skipper Virat Kohli assessed the match as he said the Indian team failed to put pressure with the ball in the first innings while adding that body language of the Indian player needs to improve. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">England, after posting a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, bundled out India for 337 before posting a target of 420 runs for the hosts. However, India, in reply, were skittled out for 192 runs to complete the 227-run defeat. It also brings an end to India’s eight-match winning run in home Tests.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-creates-new-record-during-fourth-innings-of-chennai-test-362382" hreflang="en">Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash, were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure. Having said that, it was a slow wicket and not helping the bowlers which made it easy for the batsmen to rotate strike and get into the game,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Just looked like not much happening in it on the first two days. But credit to England, they got stuck in and put up a big total on the board. Our body language and intensity was not up to the mark, second innings we were much better. We were better in the second half of the first innings with the bat, not the first four batters. We have to understand the things that we have done decently in this game and the things that we haven't and as a side we are always looking to improve. England were far more professional and consistent throughout the Test match than we were,” the Indian skipper added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">India conceded 578 runs in the first innings with the Shahbaz Nadeem and Washington Sundar struggled to bowl tight line and lengths while conceding heavy runs which allowed England to dominate the proceedings in the first two days of the match. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, Kohli said that the Indian team knows how to bounce back while vowing a better body language from the hosts. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“That's a fair assessment (the fourth and fifth bowlers not being up to the mark). You need your bowling unit to step up and create pressure on the opposition. We didn't achieve that in this game which is fine, lack of execution is acceptable but to understand our mindset was right is very important for us. I think we did well in the second innings with the ball and put pressure on them. With the bat as well we left a few things to be desired and analysed as batsmen with the kind of decisions we took. We are always learning as a side and evolving as a side and Test cricket is tough. England were ready for that grind and probably better equipped than us. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“(The toss) Ended being crucial I didn't think it would. We don't want to take anything away from England with the way they played. No excuses. We are a side that accepts our failures and faults and learns from them. One thing is for sure that in the next three matches we are going to give a tough fight and not let things slip away like it did in this Test. We have to start off with good body language and put pressure on the opposition. Understand fields, pace of the pitch and what the bowlers are doing, all those kind of things will be crucial. In the end it is the mindset and we are tying to get that back. We know how to bounce back and will give our best effort in the next game,” Kohli, who scored 11 and 72 in the first Test against England, concluded.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">India will look to bounce back when they take the field for the second Test which will be played at the same venue from February 13.<o:p></o:p></p>


India on Tuesday suffered a shocking 227-run defeat against England in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team, who had scripted history in Australia, tasted their first defeat in Chennai since 1999 and the crushing loss brings an end to their 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests.

India on Tuesday suffered a shocking 227-run defeat against England in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team, who had scripted history in Australia, tasted their first defeat in Chennai since 1999 and the crushing loss brings an end to their 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. After the heavy defeat, Indian skipper Virat Kohli assessed the match as he said the Indian team failed to put pressure with the ball in the first innings while adding that body language of the Indian player needs to improve. England, after posting a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, bundled out India for 337 before posting a target of 420 runs for the hosts. However, India, in reply, were skittled out for 192 runs to complete the 227-run defeat. It also brings an end to India’s eight-match winning run in home Tests. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test “I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash, were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure. Having said that, it was a slow wicket and not helping the bowlers which made it easy for the batsmen to rotate strike and get into the game,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. “Just looked like not much happening in it on the first two days. But credit to England, they got stuck in and put up a big total on the board. Our body language and intensity was not up to the mark, second innings we were much better. We were better in the second half of the first innings with the bat, not the first four batters. We have to understand the things that we have done decently in this game and the things that we haven't and as a side we are always looking to improve. England were far more professional and consistent throughout the Test match than we were,” the Indian skipper added. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket India conceded 578 runs in the first innings with the Shahbaz Nadeem and Washington Sundar struggled to bowl tight line and lengths while conceding heavy runs which allowed England to dominate the proceedings in the first two days of the match. However, Kohli said that the Indian team knows how to bounce back while vowing a better body language from the hosts. “That's a fair assessment (the fourth and fifth bowlers not being up to the mark). You need your bowling unit to step up and create pressure on the opposition. We didn't achieve that in this game which is fine, lack of execution is acceptable but to understand our mindset was right is very important for us. I think we did well in the second innings with the ball and put pressure on them. With the bat as well we left a few things to be desired and analysed as batsmen with the kind of decisions we took. We are always learning as a side and evolving as a side and Test cricket is tough. England were ready for that grind and probably better equipped than us. “(The toss) Ended being crucial I didn't think it would. We don't want to take anything away from England with the way they played. No excuses. We are a side that accepts our failures and faults and learns from them. One thing is for sure that in the next three matches we are going to give a tough fight and not let things slip away like it did in this Test. We have to start off with good body language and put pressure on the opposition. Understand fields, pace of the pitch and what the bowlers are doing, all those kind of things will be crucial. In the end it is the mindset and we are tying to get that back. We know how to bounce back and will give our best effort in the next game,” Kohli, who scored 11 and 72 in the first Test against England, concluded. India will look to bounce back when they take the field for the second Test which will be played at the same venue from February 13.

'No excuses': Virat Kohli assesses India's horror defeat in Chennai against England

<p>Visitors England registered a mammoth 227-run over hosts as James Anderson and James Leach produced great bowling spells to crumble &nbsp;India's batting order on Day 5 of the first Test, taking a lead of 1-0 in the series.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-creates-new-record-during-fourth-innings-of-chennai-test-362382" hreflang="en">Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test</a></p>

<p>In the presentation after the match, Kohli said that his team could not put enough pressure on visitors with the ball. He said: "I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure."</p>

<p>Kohli went on to&nbsp;talk about the body language of the team and said that it was not "up to the mark" during the first innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India had already lost Rohit Sharma when Pujara and Gill came down to bat on Day 5 chasing 381 runs. &nbsp;Despite a good start against the spin, the partnership was broken by a clinical spell by Jack Leach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skipper Kohli and Shubman Gill tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, James Anderson's reverse swing removed to Indian batsmen in one over (Gill and Rahane) putting immense pressure on Indian captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat Kohli added the most runs to the scoreboard, he scored 72 runs in 104 balls before getting bowled by Ben Stokes. Gill was the only other batsman to score a half-century before a perfect in-swinger by Anderson crashed the stumps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli tried to hold on to the crease with Ravichandran Ashwin, however, the 50-run stand was broken by Jack Leach.</p>

<p>Leach scalped four wickets and Anderson removed three major batsmen. Bess, Archer, Stokes got a man each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, England go 1-0 in the four-match series against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Stats after India's loss:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>- India's 1st Test defeat in Chennai since 1999</p>

<p>- End of India's 8-match winning streak in home Tests</p>

<p>- End of India's 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests</p>

<p>- 1st Test 5-fer for R Ashwin in a home Test loss (22 fifers)</p>

<p>- 1st home Test defeat for Rohit Sharma (15 Tests)</p>


Visitors England registered a mammoth 227-run over hosts as James Anderson and James Leach produced great bowling spells to crumble India's batting order on Day 5 of the first Test, taking a lead of 1-0 in the series.

Visitors England registered a mammoth 227-run over hosts as James Anderson and James Leach produced great bowling spells to crumble India's batting order on Day 5 of the first Test, taking a lead of 1-0 in the series. Also read: Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test In the presentation after the match, Kohli said that his team could not put enough pressure on visitors with the ball. He said: "I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure." Kohli went on to talk about the body language of the team and said that it was not "up to the mark" during the first innings. India had already lost Rohit Sharma when Pujara and Gill came down to bat on Day 5 chasing 381 runs. Despite a good start against the spin, the partnership was broken by a clinical spell by Jack Leach. Skipper Kohli and Shubman Gill tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, James Anderson's reverse swing removed to Indian batsmen in one over (Gill and Rahane) putting immense pressure on Indian captain. Virat Kohli added the most runs to the scoreboard, he scored 72 runs in 104 balls before getting bowled by Ben Stokes. Gill was the only other batsman to score a half-century before a perfect in-swinger by Anderson crashed the stumps. Kohli tried to hold on to the crease with Ravichandran Ashwin, however, the 50-run stand was broken by Jack Leach. Leach scalped four wickets and Anderson removed three major batsmen. Bess, Archer, Stokes got a man each. With this win, England go 1-0 in the four-match series against India. Stats after India's loss: - India's 1st Test defeat in Chennai since 1999 - End of India's 8-match winning streak in home Tests - End of India's 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests - 1st Test 5-fer for R Ashwin in a home Test loss (22 fifers) - 1st home Test defeat for Rohit Sharma (15 Tests)

IND vs ENG, First Test: England go 1-0 up in the series as they beat India by 227 runs

<p>Batting stalwart Virat Kohli has added another feather to his hat after becoming the first Indian skipper to score a 4th-innings fifty-plus score at Chennai. He achieved this feat while facing England in the first Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-defeat-south-africa-by-95-runs-win-first-series-against-proteas-since-2003-362160" hreflang="en">Pakistan defeat South Africa by 95 runs, win first series against Proteas since 2003</a></p>

<p>The last captain to score a 50-plus score in fourth innings in Chennai was West Indies' Gary Sobers in 1967. No Indian skipper managed to score over 30 runs in the fourth innings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-shabnim-ismail-named-icc-player-of-the-month-for-january-2021-362132" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant, Shabnim Ismail named ICC Player of the Month for January 2021</a></p>

<p>Team India are at the verge of losing the first Test match against England in Chennai and Kohli and Co. are down to 179/8 while chasing a mammoth target of 420 runs. Virat Kohli added the most runs to the scoreboard, he scored 72 runs in 104 balls before getting bowled by Ben Stokes. Gill was the only other batsman to score a half-century before a perfect in-swinger by Anderson crashed the stumps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli tried to hold on to the crease with Ravichandran Ashwin, however, the 50-run stand was broken by Jack Leach, who troubled the Indian batsmen on Day 5.&nbsp;</p>


Batting stalwart Virat Kohli has added another feather to his hat after becoming the first Indian skipper to score a 4th-innings fifty-plus score at Chennai. He achieved this feat while facing England in the first Test match.

Batting stalwart Virat Kohli has added another feather to his hat after becoming the first Indian skipper to score a 4th-innings fifty-plus score at Chennai. He achieved this feat while facing England in the first Test match. ALSO READ: Pakistan defeat South Africa by 95 runs, win first series against Proteas since 2003 The last captain to score a 50-plus score in fourth innings in Chennai was West Indies' Gary Sobers in 1967. No Indian skipper managed to score over 30 runs in the fourth innings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant, Shabnim Ismail named ICC Player of the Month for January 2021 Team India are at the verge of losing the first Test match against England in Chennai and Kohli and Co. are down to 179/8 while chasing a mammoth target of 420 runs. Virat Kohli added the most runs to the scoreboard, he scored 72 runs in 104 balls before getting bowled by Ben Stokes. Gill was the only other batsman to score a half-century before a perfect in-swinger by Anderson crashed the stumps. Kohli tried to hold on to the crease with Ravichandran Ashwin, however, the 50-run stand was broken by Jack Leach, who troubled the Indian batsmen on Day 5.

Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli helping out English counterpart Joe Root with cramps during the first Test won hearts on social media with netizens lauding the sportsmanship.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-englands-bess-scalps-four-as-india-struggles-to-avoid-follow-on-361968" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: England's Bess scalps four as India struggles to avoid the follow-on</a></p>

<p>International Cricket Council (ICC) too praised the gesture by Indian captain and called it a "heartwarming gesture".&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In an Instagram post by the ICC, they captioned it: “When England captain Joe Root was struck by cramps, Virat Kohli was the first to his aid. A heart-warming Spirit of Cricket gesture.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO SEE:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-smith-to-mooney-cricket-australia-announces-its-player-of-year-awards-361820" hreflang="en">From Smith to Mooney: Cricket Australia announces its player of year awards!</a></p>

<p>England paceman Stuart Broad was not pleased with ICC's post and took a dig at the international cricket board. “I ran a drink out too, spirit of cricket award?” replied Broad on ICC’s post.</p>

<p><img alt="ss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85291314-128f-4667-96c5-a7dfd6f34e31" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture_46.JPG" /></p>

<p>Broad was not included in the playing XI for the first Test against India. England were bowled out for 578 in their first innings against India. Bumrah and Ashwin picked up three wickets each. In reply, India scored 257 runs by the end of Day 3 after losing six wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit, Virat, Rahane fell cheap as India will be on the back foot for the remaining two days. Pant and Pujara tried to revive the innings, however, Cheteshwar's unlucky dismissal put the pressure back on the hosts.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli helping out English counterpart Joe Root with cramps during the first Test won hearts on social media with netizens lauding the sportsmanship.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli helping out English counterpart Joe Root with cramps during the first Test won hearts on social media with netizens lauding the sportsmanship. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: England's Bess scalps four as India struggles to avoid the follow-on International Cricket Council (ICC) too praised the gesture by Indian captain and called it a "heartwarming gesture". View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × In an Instagram post by the ICC, they captioned it: “When England captain Joe Root was struck by cramps, Virat Kohli was the first to his aid. A heart-warming Spirit of Cricket gesture.” ALSO SEE: From Smith to Mooney: Cricket Australia announces its player of year awards! England paceman Stuart Broad was not pleased with ICC's post and took a dig at the international cricket board. “I ran a drink out too, spirit of cricket award?” replied Broad on ICC’s post. Broad was not included in the playing XI for the first Test against India. England were bowled out for 578 in their first innings against India. Bumrah and Ashwin picked up three wickets each. In reply, India scored 257 runs by the end of Day 3 after losing six wickets. Rohit, Virat, Rahane fell cheap as India will be on the back foot for the remaining two days. Pant and Pujara tried to revive the innings, however, Cheteshwar's unlucky dismissal put the pressure back on the hosts.

'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root

<p>Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team 33 wins. These wins make him the most successful Test captain for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-skipper-joe-root-becomes-first-batsman-to-score-double-ton-in-100th-test-361769">England's Joe Root becomes first batsman to score double ton in 100th Test</a></p>

<p>Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri, who has been managing the team since 2014, hailed Virat Kohli's evolution as the captain of the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Just seeing the way he has evolved, you knew that there was an uncut diamond there when I took over in 2014, but just to see him evolve… It takes time, everything doesn’t happen in a hurry,” Shastri said on Star Sports show Cricket Live.</p>

<p>“You got to have the ups, the downs, you know, you got to feel the heat, you got to have your successes and failures, to be able to get up and move on in life. I think he has handled that beautifully and I’m sure he will handle fatherhood as well in that similar manner.”</p>

<p>Shastri went to talk about the busy 2021 and suggested a two-week-long break for their players post the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You know, this team takes, like I said, pride in performance. They take it one step at a time. Every game is important, every format is important, and you look at it in that way and we’ve got the volume of players. You know, at the moment, the bench strength is there to... for you to accommodate them, across formats," Shastri added.</p>

<p>"So, I think the hunger will be there, you’ll have to perform game after game, but I do believe, you need a break as well, from the international arena. So, I think, hopefully, after this series. Yes, they go into the IPL, but that’s a shorter format, but then again, after the IPL, I think, a couple of weeks off is a must. With these quarantines, these bubbles, it is mentally very, very draining. You're a human at the end of it all."</p>


Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team 33 wins. These wins make him the most successful Test captain for India.

Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team 33 wins. These wins make him the most successful Test captain for India. ALSO READ: England's Joe Root becomes first batsman to score double ton in 100th Test Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri, who has been managing the team since 2014, hailed Virat Kohli's evolution as the captain of the team. “Just seeing the way he has evolved, you knew that there was an uncut diamond there when I took over in 2014, but just to see him evolve… It takes time, everything doesn’t happen in a hurry,” Shastri said on Star Sports show Cricket Live. “You got to have the ups, the downs, you know, you got to feel the heat, you got to have your successes and failures, to be able to get up and move on in life. I think he has handled that beautifully and I’m sure he will handle fatherhood as well in that similar manner.” Shastri went to talk about the busy 2021 and suggested a two-week-long break for their players post the upcoming IPL season. "You know, this team takes, like I said, pride in performance. They take it one step at a time. Every game is important, every format is important, and you look at it in that way and we’ve got the volume of players. You know, at the moment, the bench strength is there to... for you to accommodate them, across formats," Shastri added. "So, I think the hunger will be there, you’ll have to perform game after game, but I do believe, you need a break as well, from the international arena. So, I think, hopefully, after this series. Yes, they go into the IPL, but that’s a shorter format, but then again, after the IPL, I think, a couple of weeks off is a must. With these quarantines, these bubbles, it is mentally very, very draining. You're a human at the end of it all."

'Just seeing the way he has evolved': Ravi Shastri hails Virat Kohli as the captain

<p>Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was 'astonished' when Shabaz Nadeem was picked ahead of Kuldeep Yadav as Axar Patel was ruled out of the first Test against England.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-a-little-bit-surprised-vvs-laxman-on-indias-tactic-after-tea-on-day-1-361728" hreflang="en">'I was a little bit surprised': VVS Laxman on India's tactic after Tea on Day 1</a></p>

<p>"It was astonishing for me to see Kuldeep Yadav not get a chance in Team India's playing XI despite him being in the squad. I can understand that since Axar Patel is injured, Shahbaz Nadeem came in as a like-for-like replacement. But it doesn't make sense to play two off-spinners in Chennai," Harbhajan told Sports Tak.</p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja is out of the first two Tests due to the wrist injury, whereas, Sundar was just one test old, which meant Kuldeep was the favourite to be picked. Yadav has been benched for some time now. The spinner was not picked in the Australia tour despite a string of injuries in the Indian squad. In Yadav's last Test appearance he picked up a five-wicket haul in his last Test appearance in Sydney against Australia.</p>

<p>"Kuldeep Yadav's presence would have added a bit of variety to this Indian bowling attack. In the last two Tests that Kuldeep Yadav played, he had picked up five-wicket hauls. So I am completely baffled by his exclusion," Harbhajan asserted.</p>

<p>"This is also not a great sign for his confidence because it demoralizes you even further when you are a part of the squad but still can't make it to the playing XI."</p>

<p>Shahbaz Nadeem managed to pick up a crucial wicket of Ben Stokes, who smashed 82 runs in 114 runs.&nbsp;</p>


Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was 'astonished' when Shabaz Nadeem was picked ahead of Kuldeep Yadav as Axar Patel was ruled out of the first Test against England.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was 'astonished' when Shabaz Nadeem was picked ahead of Kuldeep Yadav as Axar Patel was ruled out of the first Test against England. ALSO READ: 'I was a little bit surprised': VVS Laxman on India's tactic after Tea on Day 1 "It was astonishing for me to see Kuldeep Yadav not get a chance in Team India's playing XI despite him being in the squad. I can understand that since Axar Patel is injured, Shahbaz Nadeem came in as a like-for-like replacement. But it doesn't make sense to play two off-spinners in Chennai," Harbhajan told Sports Tak. Ravindra Jadeja is out of the first two Tests due to the wrist injury, whereas, Sundar was just one test old, which meant Kuldeep was the favourite to be picked. Yadav has been benched for some time now. The spinner was not picked in the Australia tour despite a string of injuries in the Indian squad. In Yadav's last Test appearance he picked up a five-wicket haul in his last Test appearance in Sydney against Australia. "Kuldeep Yadav's presence would have added a bit of variety to this Indian bowling attack. In the last two Tests that Kuldeep Yadav played, he had picked up five-wicket hauls. So I am completely baffled by his exclusion," Harbhajan asserted. "This is also not a great sign for his confidence because it demoralizes you even further when you are a part of the squad but still can't make it to the playing XI." Shahbaz Nadeem managed to pick up a crucial wicket of Ben Stokes, who smashed 82 runs in 114 runs.

'Not a great sign for his confidence': Harbhajan Singh on Kuldeep Yadav's omission

<p>England captain Joe Root`s third consecutive Test century (128 batting) and his 200-run stand for the third wicket with opener Dom Sibley helped the visitors reach 263 for three wickets at stumps on the first day of their first Test against India at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Friday.<br />
<br />
Root became the ninth batsman to slam a century in his 100th Test.<br />
<br />
Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Sibley on 87 off the last ball of the day to help India end it on a positive note for themselves. However, Sibley and Root`s partnership, coupled with a 63-run opening stand between the former and Rory Burns helped England take the upper hand on the first day of the Test.<br />
<br />
England won the toss and chose to bat at the Chepauk Stadium. India opted to play three spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar and Shahbaz Nadeem along with two fast bowlers Ishant Sharma and Bumrah.<br />
<br />
Burns and Sibley almost saw England through to lunch without losing a wicket in an attritional first session of the match. However, Ashwin got the breakthrough for the hosts as Burns mistimed a reverse sweep off the spinner. The ball lobed up into the air and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant completed a simple catch.<br />
<br />
Just two overs later, Bumrah dismissed Dan Lawrence, who came in at one down, on a duck to force Root to walk in for the last over of the session.<br />
<br />
Root and Sibley then ensured that England did not lose a wicket in the next session and almost repeated that in the final session of the day. However, Bumrah trapped Sibley in front of his leg stump with a delivery that was pitched high. The umpire raised his finger and Sibley reviewed the decision, only for it to be confirmed by the replays. The umpires called stumps with the fall of that wicket.<br />
<br />
Root walked back to the pavilion having scored his 20th Test century. He had scored 186 and 228 in England`s last two Tests against Sri Lanka. He has hit 14 fours and one six thus far in the innings.<br />
<br />
Brief scores: England 263/3 (Joe Root 128 batting, Dom Sibley 87; Jasprit Bumrah 2/40) vs India.</p>


England captain Joe Root`s third consecutive Test century (128 batting) and his 200-run stand for the third wicket with opener Dom Sibley helped the visitors reach 263 for three wickets at stumps on the first day of their first Test against India at the M.

England captain Joe Root`s third consecutive Test century (128 batting) and his 200-run stand for the third wicket with opener Dom Sibley helped the visitors reach 263 for three wickets at stumps on the first day of their first Test against India at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Friday. Root became the ninth batsman to slam a century in his 100th Test. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Sibley on 87 off the last ball of the day to help India end it on a positive note for themselves. However, Sibley and Root`s partnership, coupled with a 63-run opening stand between the former and Rory Burns helped England take the upper hand on the first day of the Test. England won the toss and chose to bat at the Chepauk Stadium. India opted to play three spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar and Shahbaz Nadeem along with two fast bowlers Ishant Sharma and Bumrah. Burns and Sibley almost saw England through to lunch without losing a wicket in an attritional first session of the match. However, Ashwin got the breakthrough for the hosts as Burns mistimed a reverse sweep off the spinner. The ball lobed up into the air and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant completed a simple catch. Just two overs later, Bumrah dismissed Dan Lawrence, who came in at one down, on a duck to force Root to walk in for the last over of the session. Root and Sibley then ensured that England did not lose a wicket in the next session and almost repeated that in the final session of the day. However, Bumrah trapped Sibley in front of his leg stump with a delivery that was pitched high. The umpire raised his finger and Sibley reviewed the decision, only for it to be confirmed by the replays. The umpires called stumps with the fall of that wicket. Root walked back to the pavilion having scored his 20th Test century. He had scored 186 and 228 in England`s last two Tests against Sri Lanka. He has hit 14 fours and one six thus far in the innings. Brief scores: England 263/3 (Joe Root 128 batting, Dom Sibley 87; Jasprit Bumrah 2/40) vs India.

Ind vs Eng 1st Test, Day 1: Root scores 3rd consecutive ton, England take upper hand

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