<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli held a virtual press conference ahead of the four-match Test series against England. While talking about strategies and game plan against England, he talked about fatherhood and still being connected with&nbsp;the team despite not being physically present with them during the recently concluded Australia series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-to-start-in-first-test-against-england-confirms-virat-kohli-361331" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>During the conference, Virat Kohli talked about becoming a father and said that it was the "greatest moment" of his life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Becoming a father has been the greatest moment of my life. I can't compare it to a series win. But the connection to the team doesn't go away even if I'm not there. We are invariably connected and I was watching all the action," said Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli had left the squad for paternity leave after a humiliating loss against the Australians in the first Test in Adelaide. Many cricketing experts believed that Team India were in for a whitewash against the mighty Australians&nbsp;due to&nbsp;Kohli's departure. However, Team India, led by Ajinkya Rahane, bounced back and went on to seal a historic win against the Australians. They also ended Australia's 32-year long dominance at the Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat talked about the Gabba Test and said: "I was actually watching Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur's partnership at Brisbane on my phone just before the doctor called me in."</p>

<p>Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli held a virtual press conference ahead of the four-match Test series against England. While talking about strategies and game plan against England, he talked about fatherhood and still being connected with the team despite not being physically present with them during the recently concluded Australia series.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli held a virtual press conference ahead of the four-match Test series against England. While talking about strategies and game plan against England, he talked about fatherhood and still being connected with the team despite not being physically present with them during the recently concluded Australia series. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli During the conference, Virat Kohli talked about becoming a father and said that it was the "greatest moment" of his life. "Becoming a father has been the greatest moment of my life. I can't compare it to a series win. But the connection to the team doesn't go away even if I'm not there. We are invariably connected and I was watching all the action," said Virat Kohli. Kohli had left the squad for paternity leave after a humiliating loss against the Australians in the first Test in Adelaide. Many cricketing experts believed that Team India were in for a whitewash against the mighty Australians due to Kohli's departure. However, Team India, led by Ajinkya Rahane, bounced back and went on to seal a historic win against the Australians. They also ended Australia's 32-year long dominance at the Gabba, Brisbane. Virat talked about the Gabba Test and said: "I was actually watching Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur's partnership at Brisbane on my phone just before the doctor called me in." Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli reveals the greatest moment of his life

<p>India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".</p>

<p>Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months.</p>

<p>"That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-to-start-in-first-test-against-england-confirms-virat-kohli-361331" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media.</p>

<p>"Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday.</p>

<p>Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to". Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months. "That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media. "Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday. Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72fddfbd-bb37-4738-8f01-6facf79c16de}{93}" paraid="2011070845" >Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side.&nbsp;India&nbsp;have&nbsp;over the past couple of&nbsp;home&nbsp;seasons have preferred&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper&nbsp;due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3548f0f2-b515-491a-8e2b-cd7c6fa99ed9}{164}" paraid="691781848" >However,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia&nbsp;have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3682cf9-6625-47c6-ab78-5e0851dd2443}{123}" paraid="1776388425" >Kohli, lauding&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire&nbsp;Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f3c13f0e-1c1c-4e7f-a996-c15c475039b5}{251}" paraid="881321484" >Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of&nbsp;68.50.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f3c13f0e-1c1c-4e7f-a996-c15c475039b5}{251}" paraid="881321484" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3-spinners-and-2-pacers-team-indias-predicted-playing-xi-vs-england-for-1st-test-361313" hreflang="en">3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72fddfbd-bb37-4738-8f01-6facf79c16de}{102}" paraid="1965813625" >"Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53da06cf-4799-4251-8309-ffe02fc7d2c5}{204}" paraid="1920377312" >Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well&nbsp;as India won the series 2-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3ac7a9c6-db44-4d06-9c30-518359a20f8c}{121}" paraid="822870713" >Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on&nbsp;Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that&nbsp;everyone in the team only wants India to win.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3ac7a9c6-db44-4d06-9c30-518359a20f8c}{121}" paraid="822870713" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-tops-celebrity-brand-valuation-study-for-fourth-consecutive-year-361275" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53da06cf-4799-4251-8309-ffe02fc7d2c5}{231}" paraid="814440325" >"The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying&nbsp;colours&nbsp;in Australia," Kohli said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3fdfaae-ba9a-4a25-9c3c-f8a9e946f184}{249}" paraid="540410669" >Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{df10fa58-e9ed-4d2d-8a65-33f976a4c8c1}{247}" paraid="2055422355" >India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves. However, Pant's recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly, Pant's last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies. Kohli, lauding Pant's impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish. Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50. ALSO READ: 3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test "Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai. Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that everyone in the team only wants India to win. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year "The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying colours in Australia," Kohli said. Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.

Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{aea2275c-c733-4c60-a01d-ddfaf124d31d}{112}" paraid="1708964096" >India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are&nbsp;heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{04911975-4254-42a0-b124-4266db6804b0}{120}" paraid="1228705904" >India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might&nbsp;lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b45a94f3-4555-400f-9f03-5f276071b56d}{198}" paraid="289392912" >While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners&nbsp;over the years.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b45a94f3-4555-400f-9f03-5f276071b56d}{198}" paraid="289392912" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-tops-celebrity-brand-valuation-study-for-fourth-consecutive-year-361275" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{60a0fd30-9131-46bd-ba84-11dc7e79adb4}{62}" paraid="221762626" >However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could&nbsp;play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India&nbsp;are&nbsp;likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{aea2275c-c733-4c60-a01d-ddfaf124d31d}{121}" paraid="669156173" >India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to not only win the first Test but also to win the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{aea2275c-c733-4c60-a01d-ddfaf124d31d}{121}" paraid="669156173" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-zak-crawley-ruled-out-of-first-two-tests-vs-india-361246" hreflang="en">England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{75b7efa7-fc42-4186-82b8-7e34a034cba9}{155}" paraid="1252191090" ><strong>India predicted playing XI:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit&nbsp;Sharma,&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill, Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara, Virat&nbsp;Kohli,&nbsp;Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar&nbsp;Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Ishant Sharma&nbsp;</p>


India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively.

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants. India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp. While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners over the years. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India are likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling. India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy favourites to not only win the first Test but also to win the series. ALSO READ: England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India India predicted playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma

3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{81a2dd29-5978-454d-acdf-ca2cd1c72a8e}{200}" paraid="1954839387" >The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at&nbsp;$237.7 million despite the&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020 released by Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{46fee58b-454f-49e9-ae8a-8a92fa1a769d}{33}" paraid="1742679192" >While the top 10 list is dominated by Bollywood stars, Kohli remains atop the standings and clear of others in the list.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{421825ac-2685-4a53-91b2-dc679640cabc}{65}" paraid="184662213" >Managing director of Duff &amp; Phelps said that while established celebrities continue to dominate the rankings, millennials with massive social media presence have left a mark in the rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{421825ac-2685-4a53-91b2-dc679640cabc}{65}" paraid="184662213" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8b15416f-0613-4552-9a6a-07a6932e0aa6}{69}" paraid="1415590326" >“While established celebrities continue to dominate our rankings, notable millennials with a strong social media presence continue to climb the ladder. Ayushmann&nbsp;Khurrana, Tiger Shroff and Rohit Sharma all jumped a few spots to grab the No. 6, No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. Further, Kartik Aaryan debuts on our list at No. 20. These rising millennial celebrities were in greater demand during the pandemic owing to their popularity among the youth,” said Aviral Jain, Managing Director, Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb273575-15ea-4ab7-ba76-b3273ce71a43}{115}" paraid="1920536572" >Duff &amp; Phelps conducted a recent survey and released key findings from the sixth edition&nbsp;of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020: “Embracing the New Normal.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d76763d6-141e-46e8-b1ed-25e8dc4905a0}{118}" paraid="314749402" >The report ranks India's most powerful celebrity brands based on brand value. It is taken from endorsement portfolio and social media presence. With the year 2020 hit by COVID-19, the study examined the impact of the pandemic on both brand value rankings and endorsement space.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d76763d6-141e-46e8-b1ed-25e8dc4905a0}{118}" paraid="314749402" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/farmers-are-integral-part-of-our-country-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-urge-indians-to-stay-united-361166" hreflang="en">'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{663d0d66-7295-4228-a38e-d8b24195de58}{217}" paraid="555907872" >According to the study, there is a reduction in marketing and advertising budget due to the pandemic. The lockdown also impacted the endorsement done by the top 20 celebrities in the year 2020. The number of endorsements declined by a noteworthy 3.5 per cent to 357&nbsp;in 2020.&nbsp;“Overall the brand value of the top 20 celebrities in 2020 saw a dip by about 5 per cent compared to 2020 due to pandemic and stood at about $1 billion,” the Duff &amp; Phelps study pointed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c2eea67b-a95b-42c5-8721-3664f38a9b8f}{130}" paraid="738692707" >The film industry was hit the hardest during the pandemic but for the sporting world, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a major event that ensured the rise of sports celebrities, according to the report.&nbsp;</p>


The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at $237.

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at $237.7 million despite the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020 released by Duff & Phelps. While the top 10 list is dominated by Bollywood stars, Kohli remains atop the standings and clear of others in the list. Managing director of Duff & Phelps said that while established celebrities continue to dominate the rankings, millennials with massive social media presence have left a mark in the rankings. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners “While established celebrities continue to dominate our rankings, notable millennials with a strong social media presence continue to climb the ladder. Ayushmann Khurrana, Tiger Shroff and Rohit Sharma all jumped a few spots to grab the No. 6, No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. Further, Kartik Aaryan debuts on our list at No. 20. These rising millennial celebrities were in greater demand during the pandemic owing to their popularity among the youth,” said Aviral Jain, Managing Director, Duff & Phelps. Duff & Phelps conducted a recent survey and released key findings from the sixth edition of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020: “Embracing the New Normal.” The report ranks India's most powerful celebrity brands based on brand value. It is taken from endorsement portfolio and social media presence. With the year 2020 hit by COVID-19, the study examined the impact of the pandemic on both brand value rankings and endorsement space. ALSO READ: 'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united According to the study, there is a reduction in marketing and advertising budget due to the pandemic. The lockdown also impacted the endorsement done by the top 20 celebrities in the year 2020. The number of endorsements declined by a noteworthy 3.5 per cent to 357 in 2020. “Overall the brand value of the top 20 celebrities in 2020 saw a dip by about 5 per cent compared to 2020 due to pandemic and stood at about $1 billion,” the Duff & Phelps study pointed out. The film industry was hit the hardest during the pandemic but for the sporting world, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a major event that ensured the rise of sports celebrities, according to the report.

Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year

<p>Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli on Wednesday took to social media and urged fans to not fall for any false propaganda. Virat's tweet comes amid the social media outrage in response to posts by international personalities like Rihanna and Greta Thunberg extended their support for the ongoing farmers protest in India. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-remain-united-sachin-tendulkar-urges-people-to-not-fall-for-propaganda-amid-farmers-protest-361115" hreflang="en">Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest</a></p>

<p>Kohli said: "Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together. #IndiaTogether"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTogether</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1357016154108166144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier on Wednesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement following the comments made by Rihanna and Thunberg on social media platform Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The MEA, in a statement, said that a minute section of farmers from parts of the country has some reservation about the farm reforms. The statement added that there is need for a proper understanding of the issue before jumping the ship about the ongoing farmers protest.</p>

<p>India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane also took to Twitter and wrote: "There’s no issue that cannot be resolved if we stand together as one. Let’s remain united and work towards resolving our internal issues #IndiaTogether"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There’s no issue that cannot be resolved if we stand together as one. Let’s remain united and work towards resolving our internal issues <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTogether</a></p>
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1357021947570253831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former India legend Sachin Tendulkar also tweeted regarding the matter and said that the "External forces can be spectators but not participants".</p>

<p>"India’s sovereignty cannot be compromised. External forces can be spectators but not participants. Indians know India and should decide for India. Let's remain united as a nation. #IndiaTogether #IndiaAgainstPropaganda," Tendulkar tweeted on Wednesday. &nbsp;</p>


Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli on Wednesday took to social media and urged fans to not fall for any false propaganda. Virat's tweet comes amid the social media outrage in response to posts by international personalities like Rihanna and Greta Thunberg extended their support for the ongoing farmers protest in India.

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli on Wednesday took to social media and urged fans to not fall for any false propaganda. Virat's tweet comes amid the social media outrage in response to posts by international personalities like Rihanna and Greta Thunberg extended their support for the ongoing farmers protest in India. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest Kohli said: "Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together. #IndiaTogether" Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together. #IndiaTogether — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) February 3, 2021 × Earlier on Wednesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement following the comments made by Rihanna and Thunberg on social media platform Twitter. The MEA, in a statement, said that a minute section of farmers from parts of the country has some reservation about the farm reforms. The statement added that there is need for a proper understanding of the issue before jumping the ship about the ongoing farmers protest. India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane also took to Twitter and wrote: "There’s no issue that cannot be resolved if we stand together as one. Let’s remain united and work towards resolving our internal issues #IndiaTogether" There’s no issue that cannot be resolved if we stand together as one. Let’s remain united and work towards resolving our internal issues #IndiaTogether — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) February 3, 2021 × Former India legend Sachin Tendulkar also tweeted regarding the matter and said that the "External forces can be spectators but not participants". "India’s sovereignty cannot be compromised. External forces can be spectators but not participants. Indians know India and should decide for India. Let's remain united as a nation. #IndiaTogether #IndiaAgainstPropaganda," Tendulkar tweeted on Wednesday.

'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united

<p>On Monday, weeks after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anushka-sharma-and-virat-kohli-blessed-with-baby-girl-356017"> welcoming her first child</a>, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared the first glimpse of her and Virat Kohli's daughter on Instagram. In the post, Anushka spoke of the various emotions she has undergone in the past few weeks ever since the birth of the little one. The actress also revealed the newborn's name. Virat and Anushka have decided to name their daughter Vamika.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Thanking fans for their good wishes, Anushka wrote, "We have lived together with love, presence and gratitude as a way of life but this little one , Vamika has taken it to a whole new level ! Tears , laughter , worry , bliss - emotions that have been experienced in a span of minutes sometimes !"<br />
<br />
Like every new mother, Anushka admitted that sleep has become a rare thing her life, "Sleep is elusive but our hearts are SO full. Thanking you all for your wishes , prayers and good energy," the actress added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CKvOEpOpEG_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma)</a></p>
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<p>The adorable photo has Virat and Anushka lovingly smiling at their little one. The photograph only shows Anushka holding the baby, and does not reveal the face.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-of-virat-kohli-anushka-sharmas-romance-as-they-become-parents-323419">Timeline of Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma's romance as they become parents</a></strong><br />
<br />
Anushka and Virat welcomed their first child on January 11 and a day later<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-anushka-sharma-virat-kohli-appeal-to-paparazzi-we-want-to-protect-the-privacy-of-our-child-356428"> requested the media to not click any photo</a> of their daughter as they wanted to maintain her privacy. "As parents, we have a simple request to make to you. We want to protect the privacy of our child and we need your help and support,” a statement issued by the couple read.&nbsp;</p>


On Monday, weeks after welcoming her first child, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared the first glimpse of her and Virat Kohli's daughter on Instagram. In the post, Anushka spoke of the various emotions she has undergone in the past few weeks ever since the birth of the little one.

On Monday, weeks after welcoming her first child, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared the first glimpse of her and Virat Kohli's daughter on Instagram. In the post, Anushka spoke of the various emotions she has undergone in the past few weeks ever since the birth of the little one. The actress also revealed the newborn's name. Virat and Anushka have decided to name their daughter Vamika. Thanking fans for their good wishes, Anushka wrote, "We have lived together with love, presence and gratitude as a way of life but this little one , Vamika has taken it to a whole new level ! Tears , laughter , worry , bliss - emotions that have been experienced in a span of minutes sometimes !" Like every new mother, Anushka admitted that sleep has become a rare thing her life, "Sleep is elusive but our hearts are SO full. Thanking you all for your wishes , prayers and good energy," the actress added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × The adorable photo has Virat and Anushka lovingly smiling at their little one. The photograph only shows Anushka holding the baby, and does not reveal the face. In pics: Timeline of Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma's romance as they become parents Anushka and Virat welcomed their first child on January 11 and a day later requested the media to not click any photo of their daughter as they wanted to maintain her privacy. "As parents, we have a simple request to make to you. We want to protect the privacy of our child and we need your help and support,” a statement issued by the couple read.

Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli share the first picture of their daughter, reveal her unique name

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{74fe4326-5cfc-4c3d-a677-4f42d79e56b0}{98}" paraid="1353234818" >Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed&nbsp;the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. Kohli has always enjoyed batting against England and the swashbuckling batsman will be eyeing twin records when he takes the field for the four-Test series, starting February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{74fe4326-5cfc-4c3d-a677-4f42d79e56b0}{107}" paraid="339316635" >Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar holds the record of scoring most runs at home against England and Kohli is 489 runs away from achieving the iconic feat. While Kohli is currently sixth in the list with 843 runs from 9 home matches against England, Gavaskar accumulated 1331 runs in 22 matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{85edb847-9e69-4256-bce7-45ebb5000e7d}{106}" paraid="614405441" >After Gavaskar, Gundappa Viswanath (1022 runs in 17 matches),&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar (960 runs in 15 matches), Vijay Manjrekar (885 runs in 11 matches) and ML Jaisimha (843&nbsp;runs in 10 matches) are head of Kohli in the list but the Indian skipper, with his run-scoring record against England, is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to topple the greats and take the&nbsp;numero&nbsp;uno spot.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{85edb847-9e69-4256-bce7-45ebb5000e7d}{106}" paraid="614405441" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-players-look-bit-scared-under-virat-kohli-opines-lee-360608" hreflang="en">Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{167}" paraid="952450856" >Most runs scored&nbsp;vs&nbsp;England in home Test&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{185}" paraid="516757573" >Sunil Gavaskar - 1331 runs in 22 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{194}" paraid="44451991" >Gundappa Viswanath - 1022 runs in 17 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{203}" paraid="989914069" >Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar - 960 runs in 15 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{212}" paraid="1287714626" >Vijay Manjrekar - 885 runs in 11 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{221}" paraid="552494605" >ML Jaisimha - 843 runs in 10 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{230}" paraid="656048026" ><em><strong>Virat Kohli - 843 runs in 9 matches&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{239}" paraid="1255401048" >Cheteshwar Pujara - 839 runs in 9 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{239}" paraid="1255401048" ><img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06a54f9f-eb67-4ad0-8568-613891859b71" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1834P9.jpg" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{248}" paraid="1878331264" >Kohli will also look to break Ricky Ponting's record of scoring most centuries as captain in home Test matches. While Ponting had scored 11 centuries and 3555 runs as captain in home Tests, Kohli has 10 records and 2699 runs.&nbsp;Currently, Kohli is locked with Greg Chappell, Steve Smith with 10 centuries in home Tests as a captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5254dd4b-51a7-44c3-a4a8-d490dcbc5040}{248}" paraid="1878331264" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{88fa032b-872e-4b3f-9a1e-81eb4a6ef9b6}{104}" paraid="1923951398" >Most&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;as captain in home Test&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3653ce7c-be71-433f-a9ec-85465040516f}{47}" paraid="141214416" >Ricky Ponting - 11&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 39 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3653ce7c-be71-433f-a9ec-85465040516f}{56}" paraid="1002392919" >Greg Chappell - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 33 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3653ce7c-be71-433f-a9ec-85465040516f}{65}" paraid="1076513166" ><strong><em>Virat Kohli - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 26 matches&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3653ce7c-be71-433f-a9ec-85465040516f}{74}" paraid="599225230" >Steve Smith - 10&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 20 matches&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3653ce7c-be71-433f-a9ec-85465040516f}{83}" paraid="1958121481" >Don Bradman - 9&nbsp;centuries&nbsp;in 15 matches&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma.

Virat Kohli will be back in action with the Indian skipper returning back to the squad for the full-fledged home series against England. Kohli had missed the last three Tests against Australia on paternity leave, to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. Kohli has always enjoyed batting against England and the swashbuckling batsman will be eyeing twin records when he takes the field for the four-Test series, starting February 5. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar holds the record of scoring most runs at home against England and Kohli is 489 runs away from achieving the iconic feat. While Kohli is currently sixth in the list with 843 runs from 9 home matches against England, Gavaskar accumulated 1331 runs in 22 matches. After Gavaskar, Gundappa Viswanath (1022 runs in 17 matches), Sachin Tendulkar (960 runs in 15 matches), Vijay Manjrekar (885 runs in 11 matches) and ML Jaisimha (843 runs in 10 matches) are head of Kohli in the list but the Indian skipper, with his run-scoring record against England, is favourite to topple the greats and take the numero uno spot. ALSO READ: Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee Most runs scored vs England in home Test matches: Sunil Gavaskar - 1331 runs in 22 matches Gundappa Viswanath - 1022 runs in 17 matches Sachin Tendulkar - 960 runs in 15 matches Vijay Manjrekar - 885 runs in 11 matches ML Jaisimha - 843 runs in 10 matches Virat Kohli - 843 runs in 9 matches Cheteshwar Pujara - 839 runs in 9 matches Kohli will also look to break Ricky Ponting's record of scoring most centuries as captain in home Test matches. While Ponting had scored 11 centuries and 3555 runs as captain in home Tests, Kohli has 10 records and 2699 runs. Currently, Kohli is locked with Greg Chappell, Steve Smith with 10 centuries in home Tests as a captain. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL Most centuries as captain in home Test matches: Ricky Ponting - 11 centuries in 39 matches Greg Chappell - 10 centuries in 33 matches Virat Kohli - 10 centuries in 26 matches Steve Smith - 10 centuries in 20 matches Don Bradman - 9 centuries in 15 matches

IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4015ff31-2532-45c1-80ee-4b3c92854451}{22}" paraid="1860064155" >Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{becb2384-5fc2-4b10-ae30-206c0ef10335}{206}" paraid="178493749" >Rahane took over the charge in Kohli’s absence in the last three Test against Australia and led the visitors to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under. Kohli had missed the last three Tests versus Australia due to paternity leave.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e8438e4a-5209-4d9d-908d-7eeb5e1b05d6}{226}" paraid="847762007" >Rahane led a bruised and battered Indian outfit, lacking experience, to wins in Melbourne and Brisbane as he became the second Indian captain after Kohli to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e8438e4a-5209-4d9d-908d-7eeb5e1b05d6}{226}" paraid="847762007" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/union-budget-2021-nirmala-sitharaman-recalls-team-indias-historic-gabba-win-in-australia-360577" hreflang="en">Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cbf59b63-6b88-4c4c-9dfb-ba020a1e0dc3}{228}" paraid="1590525085" >Kohli had left the Indian team after the series opener in Adelaide to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. However, the Indian skipper will be back in the upcoming four-Test series against England starting February 5.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6bb35c5b-1793-47f2-9b2f-ba73811737c7}{23}" paraid="1997622436" >"Look, I think for the team he is and I would have him as captain. Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all time. But I just feel that he is almost revered by the players within the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{06386ef7-b408-4d7e-9839-b4056846e82a}{122}" paraid="1073664178" >"They're almost scared to put a foot out of line. He demanded absolute professionalism from the Indian team. The players had to be fit, they had to great in field and good catching, but they almost appear a bit scared. I just see a really relaxed team under Rahane," Lee, the older brother of Brett Lee, said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{06386ef7-b408-4d7e-9839-b4056846e82a}{122}" paraid="1073664178" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jos-buttler-ready-for-wicket-keeping-challenge-on-indias-pitches-360298" hreflang="en">England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{06386ef7-b408-4d7e-9839-b4056846e82a}{140}" paraid="1304466458" >"Will Kohli give up the captaincy? I doubt it. If I was an Indian selector, and I'm not, but if I was, I would have Rahane captain the team and instead let Kohli go and do all his batting. And I think the team would function a lot better. But time would tell," Lee, who played 45 ODIs for Australia, added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6bb35c5b-1793-47f2-9b2f-ba73811737c7}{58}" paraid="299094460" >India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. India and England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;</p>


Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team.

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team. Rahane took over the charge in Kohli’s absence in the last three Test against Australia and led the visitors to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under. Kohli had missed the last three Tests versus Australia due to paternity leave. Rahane led a bruised and battered Indian outfit, lacking experience, to wins in Melbourne and Brisbane as he became the second Indian captain after Kohli to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. ALSO READ: Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia Kohli had left the Indian team after the series opener in Adelaide to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. However, the Indian skipper will be back in the upcoming four-Test series against England starting February 5. "Look, I think for the team he is and I would have him as captain. Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all time. But I just feel that he is almost revered by the players within the team. "They're almost scared to put a foot out of line. He demanded absolute professionalism from the Indian team. The players had to be fit, they had to great in field and good catching, but they almost appear a bit scared. I just see a really relaxed team under Rahane," Lee, the older brother of Brett Lee, said. ALSO READ: England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches "Will Kohli give up the captaincy? I doubt it. If I was an Indian selector, and I'm not, but if I was, I would have Rahane captain the team and instead let Kohli go and do all his batting. And I think the team would function a lot better. But time would tell," Lee, who played 45 ODIs for Australia, added. India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. India and England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODIs.

Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Ajinkya Rahane and Co. for their historic Test series win against Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a></p>

<p>During PM Modi's radio show 'Mann ki Baat', he congratulated the Indian team for their hard work and teamwork in the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This month, we got good news from the cricket pitch. After initial hiccups, the Indian team bounced back gloriously and won the series in Australia. Our team's hard work and teamwork was inspiring," PM Modi said during 'Mann Ki Baat'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">इस महीने, क्रिकेट पिच से भी बहुत अच्छी खबर मिली | हमारी क्रिकेट टीम ने शुरुआती दिक्कतों के बाद, शानदार वापसी करते हुए ऑस्ट्रेलिया में सीरीज जीती | हमारे खिलाड़ियों का hard work और teamwork प्रेरित करने वाला है : PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1355751135533907968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) thanked PM Modi for his words of appreciation and encouragement.</p>

<p>“Thank you Shri @narendramodi ji for your appreciation and words of encouragement. #TeamIndia will do everything possible to keep the tricolour flying high. @imVkohli @ajinkyarahane88 @RaviShastriOfc @RishabhPant17 @Jaspritbumrah93 @ImRo45 @JayShah @SGanguly99 @ThakurArunS,” BCCI tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji for your appreciation and words of encouragement. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> will do everything possible to keep the tricolour 🇮🇳 flying high. <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaviShastriOfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ThakurArunS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThakurArunS</a> <a href="https://t.co/fceD3bgO09">https://t.co/fceD3bgO09</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1355776598264356866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian captain Virat Kohli shared the tweet with a tricolour emoji.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/jGez2Na675">https://t.co/jGez2Na675</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1355791729526378500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ajinkya Rahane, who led India in the absence of skipper Virat Kohli and guided the team to 2-1 win, also took to Twitter and expressed his gratitude.</p>

<p>“Thank you for your words of encouragement Shri @narendramodi Ji. It’s always an honour to represent our country, we hope to continue inspiring more Indians as we move forward.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for your words of encouragement Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji 🙏 It’s always an honour to represent our country, we hope to continue inspiring more Indians as we move forward 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/8vxfrU3N4v">https://t.co/8vxfrU3N4v</a></p>
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1355807239194300421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ravichandran Ashwin also thanked the Prime Minister. He said: “Thank you so much sir.”</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Ajinkya Rahane and Co. for their historic Test series win against Australia. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL During PM Modi's radio show 'Mann ki Baat', he congratulated the Indian team for their hard work and teamwork in the series.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Ajinkya Rahane and Co. for their historic Test series win against Australia. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL During PM Modi's radio show 'Mann ki Baat', he congratulated the Indian team for their hard work and teamwork in the series. “This month, we got good news from the cricket pitch. After initial hiccups, the Indian team bounced back gloriously and won the series in Australia. Our team's hard work and teamwork was inspiring," PM Modi said during 'Mann Ki Baat'. इस महीने, क्रिकेट पिच से भी बहुत अच्छी खबर मिली | हमारी क्रिकेट टीम ने शुरुआती दिक्कतों के बाद, शानदार वापसी करते हुए ऑस्ट्रेलिया में सीरीज जीती | हमारे खिलाड़ियों का hard work और teamwork प्रेरित करने वाला है : PM @narendramodi #MannKiBaat — PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 31, 2021 × The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) thanked PM Modi for his words of appreciation and encouragement. “Thank you Shri @narendramodi ji for your appreciation and words of encouragement. #TeamIndia will do everything possible to keep the tricolour flying high. @imVkohli @ajinkyarahane88 @RaviShastriOfc @RishabhPant17 @Jaspritbumrah93 @ImRo45 @JayShah @SGanguly99 @ThakurArunS,” BCCI tweeted. Thank you Shri @narendramodi ji for your appreciation and words of encouragement. #TeamIndia will do everything possible to keep the tricolour 🇮🇳 flying high. @imVkohli @ajinkyarahane88 @RaviShastriOfc @RishabhPant17 @Jaspritbumrah93 @ImRo45 @JayShah @SGanguly99 @ThakurArunS https://t.co/fceD3bgO09 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 31, 2021 × Indian captain Virat Kohli shared the tweet with a tricolour emoji. 🇮🇳 https://t.co/jGez2Na675 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 31, 2021 × Ajinkya Rahane, who led India in the absence of skipper Virat Kohli and guided the team to 2-1 win, also took to Twitter and expressed his gratitude. “Thank you for your words of encouragement Shri @narendramodi Ji. It’s always an honour to represent our country, we hope to continue inspiring more Indians as we move forward.” Thank you for your words of encouragement Shri @narendramodi Ji 🙏 It’s always an honour to represent our country, we hope to continue inspiring more Indians as we move forward 🇮🇳 https://t.co/8vxfrU3N4v — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) January 31, 2021 × Ravichandran Ashwin also thanked the Prime Minister. He said: “Thank you so much sir.”

'Team's hard work was inspiring’: PM Narendra Modi praises Team India for historic win in Australia

<p>Rishabh Pant's promotion in the batting order turned out to be a series-winning gamble against the mighty Australians in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy where Team India beat the hosts to 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a></p>

<p>The decision to promote Pant was first taken on the final day of the SCG Test when the Indian wicketkeeper came out to bat after the early dismissal of skipper Ajiknya Rahane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The promotion did the trick as Pant went on to score 97 runs to take the match closer than anyone expected. The match ended in a draw but India's strategy had worked. Pant was promoted again during the final day of the Gabba Test and his gritty knock of 89 runs helped India seal a historic win in Brisbane. However, the Indian batting coach revealed that it was Virat Kohli's idea to promote Pant up in the batting order.</p>

<p>While speaking to Indian off-spinner R Ashwin in a video on his Youtube channel, Rathour said: &nbsp;“It came from Virat to be honest. He said, ‘in case we play both left-handers, it will be a good idea if we can send Pant at No. 5 so that we can have a left-right combination. We discussed it with Ajinkya also. Then during the match, in the first innings, we decided to let him go at No.6.”</p>

<p>Rathour further revealed why they decided to send him at no. 5 in the 2nd innings at SCG. "Irrespective of when we lose wickets, this is the last innings, and we were going for the runs. The intent was not to draw the Test. Till we can, we were going to go for the win. That was the right time to send him in,” Rathour added.</p>

<p>“Ravi Shastri is a great believer of left-right combination and thought for a long time that Australians don’t bowl that well to the left-handers. And Ajinkya agreed to send him at No.5."</p>

<p>Rathour further revealed that there were even discussions to send Pant at no. 4 if they got a good start.</p>

<p>"I was telling Ajinkya if we get a good start we can send him at No. 4 in the first innings but that didn’t happen,” Rathour added.</p>


Rishabh Pant's promotion in the batting order turned out to be a series-winning gamble against the mighty Australians in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy where Team India beat the hosts to 2-1.

Rishabh Pant's promotion in the batting order turned out to be a series-winning gamble against the mighty Australians in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy where Team India beat the hosts to 2-1. ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase The decision to promote Pant was first taken on the final day of the SCG Test when the Indian wicketkeeper came out to bat after the early dismissal of skipper Ajiknya Rahane. The promotion did the trick as Pant went on to score 97 runs to take the match closer than anyone expected. The match ended in a draw but India's strategy had worked. Pant was promoted again during the final day of the Gabba Test and his gritty knock of 89 runs helped India seal a historic win in Brisbane. However, the Indian batting coach revealed that it was Virat Kohli's idea to promote Pant up in the batting order. While speaking to Indian off-spinner R Ashwin in a video on his Youtube channel, Rathour said: “It came from Virat to be honest. He said, ‘in case we play both left-handers, it will be a good idea if we can send Pant at No. 5 so that we can have a left-right combination. We discussed it with Ajinkya also. Then during the match, in the first innings, we decided to let him go at No.6.” Rathour further revealed why they decided to send him at no. 5 in the 2nd innings at SCG. "Irrespective of when we lose wickets, this is the last innings, and we were going for the runs. The intent was not to draw the Test. Till we can, we were going to go for the win. That was the right time to send him in,” Rathour added. “Ravi Shastri is a great believer of left-right combination and thought for a long time that Australians don’t bowl that well to the left-handers. And Ajinkya agreed to send him at No.5." Rathour further revealed that there were even discussions to send Pant at no. 4 if they got a good start. "I was telling Ajinkya if we get a good start we can send him at No. 4 in the first innings but that didn’t happen,” Rathour added.

'It came from Virat': Indian batting coach reveals the reason behind Pant's promotion in batting order

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77513420-6d8b-41e5-9847-86f1d5bbab84}{120}" paraid="294957113" >Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and&nbsp;former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli. While Rahane led Team India to a historic&nbsp;Test series win over Australia recently, Kohli will be back in-charge in the home series against England. A crucial cog in&nbsp;the&nbsp;Indian side, Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp;has now opened up about the captaincy style between Kohli and Rahane.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77513420-6d8b-41e5-9847-86f1d5bbab84}{137}" paraid="419055757" >Rahane's calm and composed demeanour was lauded by many while his aggressive bowling and fielding changes&nbsp;helped India come back to the series to win it 2-1. However, Kohli's&nbsp;'in&nbsp;your face' and expressive approach have helped India win&nbsp;33 Test matches out of 56 in which Kohli has led Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{252ce9e7-2c5f-44db-b94d-350034d6b528}{123}" paraid="850116591" >Ashwin, talking about Rahane and Kohli's captaincy, said that a captain and his achievements can be only good as the team while adding the Indian cricket team, in the past, has enjoyed great results due to quality players in the dressing room.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d32f7057-8b8a-45c3-a329-759676fe0cb5}{37}" paraid="544093567" >The veteran Indian spinner further said there is not much difference in the duo's captaincy style. Ashwin said that while Kohli is more expressive&nbsp;and communicative, Rahane is much quieter than him.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d32f7057-8b8a-45c3-a329-759676fe0cb5}{37}" paraid="544093567" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-swashbuckling-rishabh-pant-decimated-australia-at-the-gabba-357703" hreflang="en">How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77513420-6d8b-41e5-9847-86f1d5bbab84}{145}" paraid="593383535" >"Rahane has led India in about five Tests and Kohli much more and that’s the first difference. I am totally blown away by the kind of comparisons people like to make when it comes to captaincy. All along it was about MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli and their styles of leadership. People just want to pick on it and just talk about it because it makes the headlines,” Ashwin told The New Indian Express.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{801ed0ba-ba52-480e-8d3a-909bed41623d}{90}" paraid="1329048688" >While Kohli has a brilliant win percentage of 58.92 as a Test captain after leading India in 56 Tests including 33 wins, 13 defeats and 10 draws;&nbsp;Rahane is yet to lose a match as Indian Test captain after leading the side in five Tests with four wins and one draw.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{801ed0ba-ba52-480e-8d3a-909bed41623d}{98}" paraid="643278369" >"Personally, I feel that as a captain your achievements can only be as good as the team that you get. I feel this Indian team has had some wonderful results in the past because of quality players and human beings in the dressing room. Virat and Rahane have been captain and vice-captain for as long as I can remember now. They lend great balance to the team,” Ashwin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{801ed0ba-ba52-480e-8d3a-909bed41623d}{98}" paraid="643278369" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-disrespectful-kevin-pietersen-lashes-out-on-englands-possible-xi-against-india-359060" hreflang="en">'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cb1205fb-ceaf-4052-88ce-d59c1c6d0027}{196}" paraid="200247224" >"As soon as Virat left, it was just an extension and nobody had to tell Jinks how things had to be operated and it was an automatic transition that happened. For me, it was an extension of what’s been happening in the last 5 years. We have played under Jinks in the Dharamshala Test (Against Oz in 2017) and then the Test against Afghanistan and we know what to expect. When the players know what to expect, things get a lot easier. I wouldn’t say there is a distinct difference in their style of captaincy. It's just the people they are. Virat is more expressive, communicative and in your face while Jinks doesn’t do these three things. But the way they captain the side is pretty much similar,” the 34-year-old who picked up 12 wickets in three Tests in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 added.&nbsp;</p>


Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli.

Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli. While Rahane led Team India to a historic Test series win over Australia recently, Kohli will be back in-charge in the home series against England. A crucial cog in the Indian side, Ravichandran Ashwin has now opened up about the captaincy style between Kohli and Rahane. Rahane's calm and composed demeanour was lauded by many while his aggressive bowling and fielding changes helped India come back to the series to win it 2-1. However, Kohli's 'in your face' and expressive approach have helped India win 33 Test matches out of 56 in which Kohli has led Team India. Ashwin, talking about Rahane and Kohli's captaincy, said that a captain and his achievements can be only good as the team while adding the Indian cricket team, in the past, has enjoyed great results due to quality players in the dressing room. The veteran Indian spinner further said there is not much difference in the duo's captaincy style. Ashwin said that while Kohli is more expressive and communicative, Rahane is much quieter than him. ALSO READ: How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba "Rahane has led India in about five Tests and Kohli much more and that’s the first difference. I am totally blown away by the kind of comparisons people like to make when it comes to captaincy. All along it was about MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli and their styles of leadership. People just want to pick on it and just talk about it because it makes the headlines,” Ashwin told The New Indian Express. While Kohli has a brilliant win percentage of 58.92 as a Test captain after leading India in 56 Tests including 33 wins, 13 defeats and 10 draws; Rahane is yet to lose a match as Indian Test captain after leading the side in five Tests with four wins and one draw. "Personally, I feel that as a captain your achievements can only be as good as the team that you get. I feel this Indian team has had some wonderful results in the past because of quality players and human beings in the dressing room. Virat and Rahane have been captain and vice-captain for as long as I can remember now. They lend great balance to the team,” Ashwin said. ALSO READ: 'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India "As soon as Virat left, it was just an extension and nobody had to tell Jinks how things had to be operated and it was an automatic transition that happened. For me, it was an extension of what’s been happening in the last 5 years. We have played under Jinks in the Dharamshala Test (Against Oz in 2017) and then the Test against Afghanistan and we know what to expect. When the players know what to expect, things get a lot easier. I wouldn’t say there is a distinct difference in their style of captaincy. It's just the people they are. Virat is more expressive, communicative and in your face while Jinks doesn’t do these three things. But the way they captain the side is pretty much similar,” the 34-year-old who picked up 12 wickets in three Tests in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 added.

How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take

<p>Bowling legend <strong>Bishan Singh Bedi </strong>lauded Rahane's captaincy in India's Test series win against Australia and felt that skipper Virat Kohli should hand over the leadership role to Ajinkya, and continue his career as one of the best batsmen in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/6-indian-cricketers-got-this-special-gift-from-anand-mahindra-for-their-historic-win-against-australia-358802" hreflang="en">6 Indian cricketers got this special gift from Anand Mahindra for their historic win against Australia</a></p>

<p>Bishan Singh Bedi was mighty impressed with the way Rahane led India to an away win against Australia and compared his leadership to that of Tiger Pataudi. "Personally, I am floored with the way Rahane conjured magic from broken bodies around him. The way he handled his meagre resources reminds me of Tiger Pataudi, who throughout his captaincy tenure was woefully short of a well-rounded unit but his leadership alone gave Indian cricket fresh legs. It was Pataudi who defined an “Indianness” in our cricket. He infused in us a thrilling sense of being together in this ride," Bedi wrote in the Indian Express.</p>

<p>"I’ve observed Rahane pretty closely on this tour. The hallmark of any captain is his ability to handle the bowling resources. This is where yours truly has become an absolute 'mureed' of Rahane. Three Tests is good enough time to assess a captain’s bowling changes and fielding placements. I tried hard but I couldn’t find a single Rahane move which could be questioned by armchair critics like me.</p>

<p>"For me personally, it was more important that the Indian bowlers thrived under Rahane’s quiet but watchful eyes. Ravichandran Ashwin is not easily satisfied with himself or even with the man at the helm. But it was heartening to see him at peace with himself and also the captain. You could see him all-involved in the final Test even when he wasn’t in the playing XI. The obvious sign of a disgruntled dressing room are sulking faces of those carrying drinks.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inside-team-room-wear-that-36-all-out-like-a-badge-r-sridhar-recalls-raviship-and-more-358337" hreflang="en">Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more</a></p>

<p>"Even to a critical eye, it was pleasing to see a captain who was unperturbed, unruffled and least demonstrative. What sealed my vote for him was his gesture at the end of the Test. Watching him hand over the glittering Border-Gavaskar Trophy to T Natarajan, a rookie on his first away tour, would have had the cricketing Gods looking down at him with kind eyes. This for me was pure and simple leadership at its honest best.</p>

<p>"The great Richie Benaud famously said, “Captaincy is 90 per cent luck and 10 per cent skill. But don’t try it without that 10 per cent.” Rahane has both, though with a minor change in proportion. He has 50 per cent luck and 50 per cent skill."</p>

<p>According to former India spinner, the Team must decide between Virat Kohli, the great batsman or 'mediocre captain'.</p>

<p>"I hope I’m not giving the impression of bending my back to build a case for Rahane to take over as Test captain. If anything my sincere aim is to prolong Virat Kohli’s batting career for the country. Shared responsibilities in cricket are different from corporate/political fields whence individuals are almost vying for cut-throat glory. In sports, especially cricket, captains can be seen swimming or sinking with the teams they lead.</p>

<p>"Another ticklish thought pops up in my mind: Does India need Virat Kohli the great batsman or Virat Kohli a mediocre captain in the long run? Providence has provided us with an instant option. Rahane can lead in Tests while Kohli and Rohit Sharma can share the duties in white-ball cricket. I am certain none of the selectors would want to own up this responsibility.</p>

<p>"Maybe Kohli can offer to make an honourable way for Rahane to take over during the series against England at home. I can assure no bad blood would be caused when we ensure that the larger picture on the canvas is Indian cricket."</p>

<p>Virat Kohli will return to lead Team India&nbsp;against<strong> England in the upcoming Test series.&nbsp;</strong></p>


Bowling legend Bishan Singh Bedi lauded Rahane's captaincy in India's Test series win against Australia and felt that skipper Virat Kohli should hand over the leadership role to Ajinkya, and continue his career as one of the best batsmen in the longest format of the game.

Bowling legend Bishan Singh Bedi lauded Rahane's captaincy in India's Test series win against Australia and felt that skipper Virat Kohli should hand over the leadership role to Ajinkya, and continue his career as one of the best batsmen in the longest format of the game. ALSO READ: 6 Indian cricketers got this special gift from Anand Mahindra for their historic win against Australia Bishan Singh Bedi was mighty impressed with the way Rahane led India to an away win against Australia and compared his leadership to that of Tiger Pataudi. "Personally, I am floored with the way Rahane conjured magic from broken bodies around him. The way he handled his meagre resources reminds me of Tiger Pataudi, who throughout his captaincy tenure was woefully short of a well-rounded unit but his leadership alone gave Indian cricket fresh legs. It was Pataudi who defined an “Indianness” in our cricket. He infused in us a thrilling sense of being together in this ride," Bedi wrote in the Indian Express. "I’ve observed Rahane pretty closely on this tour. The hallmark of any captain is his ability to handle the bowling resources. This is where yours truly has become an absolute 'mureed' of Rahane. Three Tests is good enough time to assess a captain’s bowling changes and fielding placements. I tried hard but I couldn’t find a single Rahane move which could be questioned by armchair critics like me. "For me personally, it was more important that the Indian bowlers thrived under Rahane’s quiet but watchful eyes. Ravichandran Ashwin is not easily satisfied with himself or even with the man at the helm. But it was heartening to see him at peace with himself and also the captain. You could see him all-involved in the final Test even when he wasn’t in the playing XI. The obvious sign of a disgruntled dressing room are sulking faces of those carrying drinks. ALSO READ: Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more "Even to a critical eye, it was pleasing to see a captain who was unperturbed, unruffled and least demonstrative. What sealed my vote for him was his gesture at the end of the Test. Watching him hand over the glittering Border-Gavaskar Trophy to T Natarajan, a rookie on his first away tour, would have had the cricketing Gods looking down at him with kind eyes. This for me was pure and simple leadership at its honest best. "The great Richie Benaud famously said, “Captaincy is 90 per cent luck and 10 per cent skill. But don’t try it without that 10 per cent.” Rahane has both, though with a minor change in proportion. He has 50 per cent luck and 50 per cent skill." According to former India spinner, the Team must decide between Virat Kohli, the great batsman or 'mediocre captain'. "I hope I’m not giving the impression of bending my back to build a case for Rahane to take over as Test captain. If anything my sincere aim is to prolong Virat Kohli’s batting career for the country. Shared responsibilities in cricket are different from corporate/political fields whence individuals are almost vying for cut-throat glory. In sports, especially cricket, captains can be seen swimming or sinking with the teams they lead. "Another ticklish thought pops up in my mind: Does India need Virat Kohli the great batsman or Virat Kohli a mediocre captain in the long run? Providence has provided us with an instant option. Rahane can lead in Tests while Kohli and Rohit Sharma can share the duties in white-ball cricket. I am certain none of the selectors would want to own up this responsibility. "Maybe Kohli can offer to make an honourable way for Rahane to take over during the series against England at home. I can assure no bad blood would be caused when we ensure that the larger picture on the canvas is Indian cricket." Virat Kohli will return to lead Team India against England in the upcoming Test series.

'Virat Kohli the great batsman or a mediocre captain?': Bishan Singh Bedi opines

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four&nbsp;bowlers waiting in the ranks. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-at-the-gabba-india-defeat-australia-by-3-wickets-seal-series-2-1-357669" hreflang="en">History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>India squad for first two Tests vs England:</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Openers</strong>: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Middle-order</strong>: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test)<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Fast bowlers</strong>: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Spinners</strong>: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Standbys</strong>: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Net bowlers: </strong>Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series. Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four bowlers waiting in the ranks. The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma. ALSO READ: History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1 India squad for first two Tests vs England: Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test) Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England

<p>Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar's 123-run partnership for the seventh wicket brought India back into the game. The partnership is India’s third-highest ever 7th wicket stand in Australia and the highest 7th wicket stand&nbsp;at the Gabba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Team India, who once were at 186/6, managed to score 336 with the help of the Thakur-Sundar partnership. Their performance earned a lot of appreciation from cricketing stalwarts, including Indian captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat Kohli took to Twitter and said: "Outstanding application and belief by&nbsp;@Sundarwashi5 and @imShard. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Outstanding application and belief by <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a>. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1350698430931210241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former India opener Virender Sehwag congratulated both the batsman and wrote: "Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys.<br />
<br />
Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur. <a href="https://t.co/NouAYYFyN4">pic.twitter.com/NouAYYFyN4</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1350678914859892736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys @imShard &amp; @Sundarwashi5 So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! #INDvAUS," Former India batsman Suresh Raina congratulated.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> 🏏</p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1350678423908229122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik congratulated both batsmen and recalled the transformation in their roles during the tour. He said: "From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! @Sundarwashi5 @imShard #AUSvIND"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings.<br />
We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/W3QlWd2HKC">pic.twitter.com/W3QlWd2HKC</a></p>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1350687914850623488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australia ended the day with a lead of 54 runs as both teams head on to the final day of the fourth Test. India managed to shorten the lead by 33 runs before being bowled out by Australia. However, David Warner's quickfire and unbeaten 20 runs (in 22 balls) ends the day with 21/0 in 6 overs giving the Aussies an upper hand.&nbsp;</p>


Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar's 123-run partnership for the seventh wicket brought India back into the game. The partnership is India’s third-highest ever 7th wicket stand in Australia and the highest 7th wicket stand at the Gabba.

Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar's 123-run partnership for the seventh wicket brought India back into the game. The partnership is India’s third-highest ever 7th wicket stand in Australia and the highest 7th wicket stand at the Gabba. Team India, who once were at 186/6, managed to score 336 with the help of the Thakur-Sundar partnership. Their performance earned a lot of appreciation from cricketing stalwarts, including Indian captain Virat Kohli. Virat Kohli took to Twitter and said: "Outstanding application and belief by @Sundarwashi5 and @imShard. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌" Outstanding application and belief by @Sundarwashi5 and @imShard. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 17, 2021 × Former India opener Virender Sehwag congratulated both the batsman and wrote: "Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur." Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur. pic.twitter.com/NouAYYFyN4 — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 17, 2021 × "What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys @imShard & @Sundarwashi5 So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! #INDvAUS," Former India batsman Suresh Raina congratulated. What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys @imShard & @Sundarwashi5 So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! #INDvAUS 🏏 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 17, 2021 × Indian wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik congratulated both batsmen and recalled the transformation in their roles during the tour. He said: "From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! @Sundarwashi5 @imShard #AUSvIND" From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! @Sundarwashi5 @imShard#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/W3QlWd2HKC — DK (@DineshKarthik) January 17, 2021 × Australia ended the day with a lead of 54 runs as both teams head on to the final day of the fourth Test. India managed to shorten the lead by 33 runs before being bowled out by Australia. However, David Warner's quickfire and unbeaten 20 runs (in 22 balls) ends the day with 21/0 in 6 overs giving the Aussies an upper hand.

'What a beautiful partnership': Cricketing stalwarts praise record 7th wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar

<p>Indian cricketers Hardik and Krunal Pandya's father Himanshu Pandya passed away at the age of 71 on Saturday morning due to a cardiac arrest. Krunal, who was the skipper of Baroda at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, left the tournament's bio-bubble to be with his family.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-thunderstorm-plays-spoilsport-as-india-end-day-2-at-622-357080" hreflang="en">Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: Thunderstorm plays spoilsport as India end Day 2 at 62/2</a></p>

<p>"Yes, Krunal Pandya has left the bubble. It is a personal tragedy, Baroda Cricket Association mourns this loss of Hardik and Krunal," Baroda Cricket Association CEO Shishir Hattangadi told ANI.</p>

<p>Himanshu played a key role in the success of Pandya brothers in the world of cricket. Hardik is currently preparing himself for the white-ball series against England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many cricketers, including Indian captain Virat Kohli, sent their condolence to the Pandya duo after the demise of their father.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India captain Virat Kohli took to Twitter to pay condolences to Hardik and Krunal, he said: "Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Hardik and Krunal's dad. Spoke to him a couple of times, looked a joyful and full of life person. May his soul rest in peace. Stay strong you two. @hardikpandya7 @krunalpandya24"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Hardik and Krunal's dad. Spoke to him a couple of times, looked a joyful and full of life person. May his soul rest in peace. Stay strong you two. <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/krunalpandya24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@krunalpandya24</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1350312797075173376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said: "Remember meeting uncle for the first time at motibagh. He was so keen for his sons to play good cricket. My condolences to You and family. May god give you strength to pass through this difficult time @krunalpandya24 @hardikpandya7"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Remember meeting uncle for the first time at motibagh. He was so keen for his sons to play good cricket. My condolences to You and family. May god give you strength to pass through this difficult time <a href="https://twitter.com/krunalpandya24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@krunalpandya24</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1350304456609472512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Krunal's team, Baroda, has so far won all three matches and top the Group C at the domestic T20 tournament. The skipper scalped four wickets and played a successful knock of 76 in the first match.&nbsp;</p>


Indian cricketers Hardik and Krunal Pandya's father Himanshu Pandya passed away at the age of 71 on Saturday morning due to a cardiac arrest. Krunal, who was the skipper of Baroda at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, left the tournament's bio-bubble to be with his family.

Indian cricketers Hardik and Krunal Pandya's father Himanshu Pandya passed away at the age of 71 on Saturday morning due to a cardiac arrest. Krunal, who was the skipper of Baroda at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, left the tournament's bio-bubble to be with his family. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: Thunderstorm plays spoilsport as India end Day 2 at 62/2 "Yes, Krunal Pandya has left the bubble. It is a personal tragedy, Baroda Cricket Association mourns this loss of Hardik and Krunal," Baroda Cricket Association CEO Shishir Hattangadi told ANI. Himanshu played a key role in the success of Pandya brothers in the world of cricket. Hardik is currently preparing himself for the white-ball series against England. Many cricketers, including Indian captain Virat Kohli, sent their condolence to the Pandya duo after the demise of their father. India captain Virat Kohli took to Twitter to pay condolences to Hardik and Krunal, he said: "Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Hardik and Krunal's dad. Spoke to him a couple of times, looked a joyful and full of life person. May his soul rest in peace. Stay strong you two. @hardikpandya7 @krunalpandya24" Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Hardik and Krunal's dad. Spoke to him a couple of times, looked a joyful and full of life person. May his soul rest in peace. Stay strong you two. @hardikpandya7 @krunalpandya24 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 16, 2021 × Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said: "Remember meeting uncle for the first time at motibagh. He was so keen for his sons to play good cricket. My condolences to You and family. May god give you strength to pass through this difficult time @krunalpandya24 @hardikpandya7" Remember meeting uncle for the first time at motibagh. He was so keen for his sons to play good cricket. My condolences to You and family. May god give you strength to pass through this difficult time @krunalpandya24 @hardikpandya7 — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) January 16, 2021 × Krunal's team, Baroda, has so far won all three matches and top the Group C at the domestic T20 tournament. The skipper scalped four wickets and played a successful knock of 76 in the first match.

Hardik and Krunal Pandya's father passes away, Virat Kohli and others send condolences

<p>Two days after Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma and cricketer Virat Kohli welcomed their baby girl, the duo has made a strong appeal to paparazzi in Mumbai to refrain from clicking their daughter`s picture as they want to protect her privacy.<br />
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Sharma and Kohli have sent out a note to the paparazzi fraternity in Mumbai requesting privacy for their child.&nbsp;<br />
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"Hi, Thank you for all the love that you have given us for all these years. We are happy to celebrate this momentous occasion with you. As parents, we have a simple request to make to you. We want to protect the privacy of our child and we need your help and support,”the statement read.&nbsp;<br />
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"While we will always ensure that you get all the content you need featuring us, we would request you to kindly not take or carry any content that has our child. We know that you will understand where we are coming from and we thank you for the same," the note concluded.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma were blessed with a baby girl on Monday.&nbsp;<br />
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Kohli shared the news via Twitter and said both baby and mother are healthy.&nbsp;<br />
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Pictures of Virushka’s baby girl soon went viral on Monday, which was shared by Virat’s brother. The family though later denied sharing any pic of the actress or her daughter on social media.&nbsp;</p>


Two days after Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma and cricketer Virat Kohli welcomed their baby girl, the duo has made a strong appeal to paparazzi in Mumbai to refrain from clicking their daughter`s picture as they want to protect her privacy.

Two days after Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma and cricketer Virat Kohli welcomed their baby girl, the duo has made a strong appeal to paparazzi in Mumbai to refrain from clicking their daughter`s picture as they want to protect her privacy. Sharma and Kohli have sent out a note to the paparazzi fraternity in Mumbai requesting privacy for their child. "Hi, Thank you for all the love that you have given us for all these years. We are happy to celebrate this momentous occasion with you. As parents, we have a simple request to make to you. We want to protect the privacy of our child and we need your help and support,”the statement read. "While we will always ensure that you get all the content you need featuring us, we would request you to kindly not take or carry any content that has our child. We know that you will understand where we are coming from and we thank you for the same," the note concluded. Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma were blessed with a baby girl on Monday. Kohli shared the news via Twitter and said both baby and mother are healthy. Pictures of Virushka’s baby girl soon went viral on Monday, which was shared by Virat’s brother. The family though later denied sharing any pic of the actress or her daughter on social media.

Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli appeal to paparazzi: We want to protect the privacy of our child 

Timeline of Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma's romance as they become parents

<p>The captain of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli and his wife and Bollywood star Anushka Sharma on Monday announced the birth of their first child – a baby girl. Kohli took to social media platform to share a statement with his fans and followers as he announced that they have been blessed with a baby girl while thanking everyone for all the love, prayers and good wishes. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli’s tweet went viral in no time with fans and former cricketers wishing the Indian captain and his wife on the birth of a baby girl. From the likes of Shreyas Iyer to Shikhar Dhawan, Brett Lee to Suresh Raina among others,&nbsp;Kohli’s teammates and colleagues&nbsp;congratulated the Indian skipper and his wife. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are thrilled to share with you that we have been blessed with a baby girl this afternoon. We thank you all for your love, prayers and good wishes. Anushka and the baby are both healthy and we are feeling beyond blessed to start this new chapter of our lives. &nbsp;We hope that you can respect our privacy at this time," Kohli tweeted. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ÁLSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anushka-sharma-and-virat-kohli-blessed-with-baby-girl-356017" hreflang="en">Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli blessed with baby girl</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">♥️ <a href="https://t.co/js3SkZJTsH">pic.twitter.com/js3SkZJTsH</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1348580955594768385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Here's how Twitter reacted to the birth of Kohli and Anushka's child:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Daughters are the biggest blessing to those who are the luckiest! Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/AnushkaSharma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anushkasharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> and welcome to the wonderful world of parenting <a href="https://t.co/ZMMWu0TKgN">https://t.co/ZMMWu0TKgN</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1348593562682724353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations brother and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnushkaSharma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnushkaSharma</a> 🤗 Welcome to parenthood. A big hug to the little one, who'll give you happiness like you've never experienced before ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/SsjLobB4Eu">https://t.co/SsjLobB4Eu</a></p>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1348592982660763648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://t.co/0t0d66MPt2">https://t.co/0t0d66MPt2</a></p>
— Brett Lee (@BrettLee_58) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettLee_58/status/1348596236069191683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Big congratulations to both of you 😇</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1348584335067074566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saving her birthdate on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheWall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheWall</a>. 💗<br />
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Congratulations. 👨‍👩‍👧</p>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1348590417034416130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations both ❤️</p>
— Alexandra Hartley (@AlexHartley93) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexHartley93/status/1348582046470430722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to the proud parents 😊😊</p>
— Anjum Chopra (@chopraanjum) <a href="https://twitter.com/chopraanjum/status/1348584342977593345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnushkaSharma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnushkaSharma</a> on the birth of your daughter ❤️ Lots of love to the little one 🤗 <a href="https://t.co/OuHVLnrbgB">https://t.co/OuHVLnrbgB</a></p>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1348587143786975233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnushkaSharma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnushkaSharma</a> ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/t5nCYawqdq">https://t.co/t5nCYawqdq</a></p>
— Shreyas Iyer (@ShreyasIyer15) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShreyasIyer15/status/1348586646539681793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnushkaSharma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnushkaSharma</a>. Welcoming Virat to the Father's club now and especially to the one where the father's first kid is a daughter! The greatest feeling of being Dad is even sweeter when it's a daughter first baby. <a href="https://t.co/mVYTadTdXy">https://t.co/mVYTadTdXy</a></p>
— R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rpsingh/status/1348586264392474626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Many congratulations 🎉👨‍👩‍👧 <a href="https://t.co/4LfSFyVF8t">https://t.co/4LfSFyVF8t</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1348582573560107012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/against-all-odds-injury-plagued-team-india-seal-memorable-draw-in-sydney-355939" hreflang="en">Against all odds, injury-plagued Team India seal memorable draw in Sydney</a></strong></p>

<p>Fans were even more ecstatic about the news as India, hours before Kohli’s tweet, clinched a memorable draw against Australia in the Sydney Test, against all the odds. Interestingly, the baby girl shares her birthday with legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, whose birthday is widely celebrated by cricket fanatics every year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli had taken paternity leave after playing the first Test against Australia in Adelaide with Ajinkya Rahane stepping in to lead the Indian side in the highly-competitive Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli and Anushka got married in a private ceremony in Italy in November 2017 after dating for around four years. &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The captain of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli and his wife and Bollywood star Anushka Sharma on Monday announced the birth of their first child – a baby girl.

The captain of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli and his wife and Bollywood star Anushka Sharma on Monday announced the birth of their first child – a baby girl. Kohli took to social media platform to share a statement with his fans and followers as he announced that they have been blessed with a baby girl while thanking everyone for all the love, prayers and good wishes. Kohli’s tweet went viral in no time with fans and former cricketers wishing the Indian captain and his wife on the birth of a baby girl. From the likes of Shreyas Iyer to Shikhar Dhawan, Brett Lee to Suresh Raina among others, Kohli’s teammates and colleagues congratulated the Indian skipper and his wife. "We are thrilled to share with you that we have been blessed with a baby girl this afternoon. We thank you all for your love, prayers and good wishes. Anushka and the baby are both healthy and we are feeling beyond blessed to start this new chapter of our lives. We hope that you can respect our privacy at this time," Kohli tweeted. ÁLSO READ: Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli blessed with baby girl ♥️ pic.twitter.com/js3SkZJTsH — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 11, 2021 × Here's how Twitter reacted to the birth of Kohli and Anushka's child: Daughters are the biggest blessing to those who are the luckiest! Congratulations @anushkasharma @imVkohli and welcome to the wonderful world of parenting https://t.co/ZMMWu0TKgN — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations brother and @AnushkaSharma 🤗 Welcome to parenthood. A big hug to the little one, who'll give you happiness like you've never experienced before ❤️ https://t.co/SsjLobB4Eu — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations https://t.co/0t0d66MPt2 — Brett Lee (@BrettLee_58) January 11, 2021 × Big congratulations to both of you 😇 — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) January 11, 2021 × Saving her birthdate on #TheWall. 💗 Congratulations. 👨‍👩‍👧 — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations both ❤️ — Alexandra Hartley (@AlexHartley93) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations to the proud parents 😊😊 — Anjum Chopra (@chopraanjum) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma on the birth of your daughter ❤️ Lots of love to the little one 🤗 https://t.co/OuHVLnrbgB — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations skipper @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma ❤️ https://t.co/t5nCYawqdq — Shreyas Iyer (@ShreyasIyer15) January 11, 2021 × Congratulations @imVkohli and @AnushkaSharma. Welcoming Virat to the Father's club now and especially to the one where the father's first kid is a daughter! The greatest feeling of being Dad is even sweeter when it's a daughter first baby. https://t.co/mVYTadTdXy — R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) January 11, 2021 × Many congratulations 🎉👨‍👩‍👧 https://t.co/4LfSFyVF8t — BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2021 × ALSO READ: Against all odds, injury-plagued Team India seal memorable draw in Sydney Fans were even more ecstatic about the news as India, hours before Kohli’s tweet, clinched a memorable draw against Australia in the Sydney Test, against all the odds. Interestingly, the baby girl shares her birthday with legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, whose birthday is widely celebrated by cricket fanatics every year. Kohli had taken paternity leave after playing the first Test against Australia in Adelaide with Ajinkya Rahane stepping in to lead the Indian side in the highly-competitive Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Kohli and Anushka got married in a private ceremony in Italy in November 2017 after dating for around four years.

Cricket fraternity congratulates Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma after birth of baby girl

<p>Junior Kohli has arrived! Bollywood star Anushka Sharma and her cricketer husband Virat Kohli have been blessed with a baby girl. The actress was admitted to a Mumbai hospital on Monday morning and the baby arrived around noon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli took to Twitter to announce the arrival of the newest member of his family. "We are thrilled to share with you that we have been blessed with a baby girl this afternoon. We thank you all for your love, prayers and good wishes. Anushka and the baby are both healthy and we are feeling beyond blessed to start this new chapter of our lives. &nbsp;We hope that you can respect our privacy at this time," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">♥️ <a href="https://t.co/js3SkZJTsH">pic.twitter.com/js3SkZJTsH</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1348580955594768385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
Anushka and Virat announced their pregnancy earlier in August 2020. The couple had shared a similar post on their respective social media pages, with Anushka showing her baby bump.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-of-virat-kohli-anushka-sharmas-romance-as-they-become-parents-323419">Timeline of Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma's romance as they become parents</a></strong></p>

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<p><br />
The couple got married in a private ceremony in Italy in November 2017 after dating for four years.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Kohli is currently on paternity leave and is not part of the Border/Gavaskar trophy.&nbsp;<br />
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&nbsp;</p>


Junior Kohli has arrived! Bollywood star Anushka Sharma and her cricketer husband Virat Kohli have been blessed with a baby girl. The actress was admitted to a Mumbai hospital on Monday morning and the baby arrived around noon.

Junior Kohli has arrived! Bollywood star Anushka Sharma and her cricketer husband Virat Kohli have been blessed with a baby girl. The actress was admitted to a Mumbai hospital on Monday morning and the baby arrived around noon. Kohli took to Twitter to announce the arrival of the newest member of his family. "We are thrilled to share with you that we have been blessed with a baby girl this afternoon. We thank you all for your love, prayers and good wishes. Anushka and the baby are both healthy and we are feeling beyond blessed to start this new chapter of our lives. We hope that you can respect our privacy at this time," read the statement. ♥️ pic.twitter.com/js3SkZJTsH — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 11, 2021 × Anushka and Virat announced their pregnancy earlier in August 2020. The couple had shared a similar post on their respective social media pages, with Anushka showing her baby bump. Timeline of Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma's romance as they become parents View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × The couple got married in a private ceremony in Italy in November 2017 after dating for four years. Kohli is currently on paternity leave and is not part of the Border/Gavaskar trophy.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli blessed with baby girl

<p>Team India were allegedly racially attacked in the on-going Pink Test by some sections of the crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many cricketing stalwarts condemn the incident and called in unfortunate. Now, Indian captain, Virat Kohli has condemned the incident that took place at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-unfortunate-former-cricketers-fume-after-racial-attacks-on-team-india-at-scg-355763" hreflang="en">'Very unfortunate': Former cricketers fume after racial attacks on Team India at SCG</a></p>

<p>Virat Kohli, who left Team India after the first Test to go on paternity leave, was disappointed with the racial incident that took place at the SCG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He took to Twitter and wrote: "Racial abuse is absolutely unacceptable. Having gone through many incidents of really pathetic things said on the boundary Iines, this is the absolute peak of rowdy behaviour. It's sad to see this happen on the field."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-launch-investigation-following-alleged-racial-incident-at-scg-355787" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia launch investigation following an alleged racial incident at SCG</a></p>

<p>"The incident needs to be looked at with absolute urgency and seriousness and strict action against the offenders should set things straight for once," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Day 4 of the third Test, the play was halted for over 8 minutes as Indian paceman Siraj in to stop play while fielding on the fine leg boundary just before tea. According to the veteran journalist Boria Majumdar, Siraj was called a 'brown dog' by some people present in the crowd.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cricket Australia was quick to apologise and condemn this act. However, now they released a statement which read: "Cricket Australia has launched an investigation in parallel with NSW police into a crowd incident at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday at the conclusion of 86th over of Australia's second innings."&nbsp;</p>


Team India were allegedly racially attacked in the on-going Pink Test by some sections of the crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Many cricketing stalwarts condemn the incident and called in unfortunate.

Team India were allegedly racially attacked in the on-going Pink Test by some sections of the crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Many cricketing stalwarts condemn the incident and called in unfortunate. Now, Indian captain, Virat Kohli has condemned the incident that took place at the Sydney Cricket Ground. ALSO READ: 'Very unfortunate': Former cricketers fume after racial attacks on Team India at SCG Virat Kohli, who left Team India after the first Test to go on paternity leave, was disappointed with the racial incident that took place at the SCG. He took to Twitter and wrote: "Racial abuse is absolutely unacceptable. Having gone through many incidents of really pathetic things said on the boundary Iines, this is the absolute peak of rowdy behaviour. It's sad to see this happen on the field." ALSO READ: Cricket Australia launch investigation following an alleged racial incident at SCG "The incident needs to be looked at with absolute urgency and seriousness and strict action against the offenders should set things straight for once," he added. On Day 4 of the third Test, the play was halted for over 8 minutes as Indian paceman Siraj in to stop play while fielding on the fine leg boundary just before tea. According to the veteran journalist Boria Majumdar, Siraj was called a 'brown dog' by some people present in the crowd. Cricket Australia was quick to apologise and condemn this act. However, now they released a statement which read: "Cricket Australia has launched an investigation in parallel with NSW police into a crowd incident at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday at the conclusion of 86th over of Australia's second innings."

'Absolutely unacceptable': Virat Kohli condemns alleged racial incident at SCG

Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma slammed a publication on Wednesday for clicking pictures of her and husband, cricketer Virat Kohli without their consent. The couple, who are expecting their first child this month, was clicked at their Mumbai apartment on Wednesday.

Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma slammed a publication on Wednesday for clicking pictures of her and husband, cricketer Virat Kohli without their consent. The couple, who are expecting their first child this month, was clicked at their Mumbai apartment on Wednesday. The actress shared the image of the two sitting at the balcony which was clicked by a photographer working for a media house and asked them to stop invading their privacy. Anushka also stated that she had already requested the "said photographer and the publication" to not infringe on her privacy, but to no avail. "Despite requesting the said photographer and the publication, they still continue to invade our privacy. Guys! Stop this right now!" Anushka wrote on her Instagram story as she shared the image. Ever since Anushka and Virat announced their pregnancy in August 2020, the actress has been sharing glimpses of her pregnancy journey on Instagram regularly. The actress has often shared photos of herself in various outfits, cradling her baby bump. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × In a recent interview to Vogue, she mentioned how both Virat and she want to bring up their child away from the media glare. The actress is often clicked by the paparazzi when she is out for work or visiting the clinic for checkups.

Anushka Sharma slams publication for clicking pictures of her and Virat Kohli without consent

<p>Former Indian skipper and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest on Saturday and wishes for the 48-year-old started pouring from all corners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-players-in-team-india-placed-under-in-precautionary-isolation-over-alleged-breach-in-protocols-354052" hreflang="en">Five players in Team India placed under in precautionary isolation over alleged breach in protocols</a></p>

<p>From Indian skipper Virat Kohli to former opener Virender Sehwag wished the former Indian captain well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted: "Praying for your speedy recovery. Get well soon @SGanguly99"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Praying for your speedy recovery. Get well soon 🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1345297394087251968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Dada, jaldi se theek hone ka. Praying for your quick and speedy recovery @SGanguly99,” Sehwag tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dada , jaldi se theek hone ka.<br />
Praying for your quick and speedy recovery <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> .</p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1345293483922182144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dhawan tweeted: “Praying for your speedy recovery Dada @SGanguly99. Get well soon.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-suffers-cardiac-arrest-admitted-in-woodlands-hospital-354021" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffers cardiac arrest; undergoing primary angioplasty</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Praying for your speedy recovery Dada <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> 🙏 Get well soon.</p>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1345291542907465728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Former India captain and current BCCI President Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest earlier today. He is now in a stable condition. We wish him a speedy recovery!,” the ICC tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Former India captain and current BCCI President Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest earlier today. He is now in a stable condition.<br />
<br />
We wish him a speedy recovery! <a href="https://t.co/HkiwFhjyih">pic.twitter.com/HkiwFhjyih</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1345296712433192960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The BCCI&nbsp;wished&nbsp;Ganguly a healthy recovery: “Here’s wishing the BCCI President @SGanguly99 a speedy recovery.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here's wishing the BCCI President <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> a speedy recovery. <a href="https://t.co/EGTcOjtqxA">https://t.co/EGTcOjtqxA</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1345295403164475397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ajinkya Rahane, India’s stand-in captain who will lead the team in the final two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tweeted: “Wishing you a speedy recovery Dada, @SGanguly99. Praying that you get well soon.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing you a speedy recovery Dada, <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> . Praying that you get well soon</p>
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1345293836809981952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, whose best days were under the captaincy of Ganguly said: ‘Dada @SGanguly99 Get well soon’</p>


Former Indian skipper and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest on Saturday and wishes for the 48-year-old started pouring from all corners.

Former Indian skipper and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest on Saturday and wishes for the 48-year-old started pouring from all corners. ALSO READ: Five players in Team India placed under in precautionary isolation over alleged breach in protocols From Indian skipper Virat Kohli to former opener Virender Sehwag wished the former Indian captain well. Kohli tweeted: "Praying for your speedy recovery. Get well soon @SGanguly99" Praying for your speedy recovery. Get well soon 🙏 @SGanguly99 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 2, 2021 × “Dada, jaldi se theek hone ka. Praying for your quick and speedy recovery @SGanguly99,” Sehwag tweeted. Dada , jaldi se theek hone ka. Praying for your quick and speedy recovery @SGanguly99 . — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 2, 2021 × Dhawan tweeted: “Praying for your speedy recovery Dada @SGanguly99. Get well soon.” ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffers cardiac arrest; undergoing primary angioplasty Praying for your speedy recovery Dada @SGanguly99 🙏 Get well soon. — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) January 2, 2021 × “Former India captain and current BCCI President Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest earlier today. He is now in a stable condition. We wish him a speedy recovery!,” the ICC tweeted. Former India captain and current BCCI President Sourav Ganguly suffered a mild cardiac arrest earlier today. He is now in a stable condition. We wish him a speedy recovery! pic.twitter.com/HkiwFhjyih — ICC (@ICC) January 2, 2021 × The BCCI wished Ganguly a healthy recovery: “Here’s wishing the BCCI President @SGanguly99 a speedy recovery.” Here's wishing the BCCI President @SGanguly99 a speedy recovery. https://t.co/EGTcOjtqxA — BCCI (@BCCI) January 2, 2021 × Ajinkya Rahane, India’s stand-in captain who will lead the team in the final two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tweeted: “Wishing you a speedy recovery Dada, @SGanguly99. Praying that you get well soon.” Wishing you a speedy recovery Dada, @SGanguly99 . Praying that you get well soon — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) January 2, 2021 × Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, whose best days were under the captaincy of Ganguly said: ‘Dada @SGanguly99 Get well soon’

'Get well soon Dada': Cricketing stalwarts wish Sourav Ganguly a speedy recovery

<p>New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson topped the ICC Men's Test Ranking on Thursday after beating Indian captain Virat Kohli and Aussie Steve Smith.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-kane-williamson-overtakes-smith-kohli-as-top-test-batsman-ajinkya-rahane-enters-top-10-353560" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10</a></p>

<p>Kiwi's spectacular knock of 129 runs in the Test against Pakistan at the Bay Oval played a crucial role in the victory. His gritty century gained him 13 rating points 11 points clear of Kohli and 13 ahead of Smith.</p>

<p>New Zealand's Williamson reacted to this achievement. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s about trying to do as much as you can for the team. If you can contribute as much as you can and it can be reflected on the rankings, that’s really cool,” Williamson said in a video posted on ICC’s official Twitter handle.</p>

<p>“Those two (Virat Kohli and Steve Smith) players are the best. For me, sneak up ahead of someone (like them) is very surprising and humbling. Those are the two players year and year out in all formats moving the game forward, very fortunate to play against these guys,” Willaimson said.</p>

<p>“It was a great game to be involved in. We seem to have many tight finishes against Pakistan. The last three have gone to the last 25 minutes of the last day. Both teams fought incredibly hard. I think we had moments although the resistance put up by Pakistan on the last day was incredibly strong. It is really exciting to cross the line and hunt for an opportunity for the World Test Championship,” he added.</p>


New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson topped the ICC Men's Test Ranking on Thursday after beating Indian captain Virat Kohli and Aussie Steve Smith. Also read: ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10 Kiwi's spectacular knock of 129 runs in the Test against Pakistan at the Bay Oval played a crucial role in the victory.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson topped the ICC Men's Test Ranking on Thursday after beating Indian captain Virat Kohli and Aussie Steve Smith. Also read: ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10 Kiwi's spectacular knock of 129 runs in the Test against Pakistan at the Bay Oval played a crucial role in the victory. His gritty century gained him 13 rating points 11 points clear of Kohli and 13 ahead of Smith. New Zealand's Williamson reacted to this achievement. “It’s about trying to do as much as you can for the team. If you can contribute as much as you can and it can be reflected on the rankings, that’s really cool,” Williamson said in a video posted on ICC’s official Twitter handle. “Those two (Virat Kohli and Steve Smith) players are the best. For me, sneak up ahead of someone (like them) is very surprising and humbling. Those are the two players year and year out in all formats moving the game forward, very fortunate to play against these guys,” Willaimson said. “It was a great game to be involved in. We seem to have many tight finishes against Pakistan. The last three have gone to the last 25 minutes of the last day. Both teams fought incredibly hard. I think we had moments although the resistance put up by Pakistan on the last day was incredibly strong. It is really exciting to cross the line and hunt for an opportunity for the World Test Championship,” he added.

'Fortunate to play against these guys': Kane Williamson reacts after beating Steve Smith and Virat Kohli to becoming No.1 batsman in Tests

<p>New Zealand captain Kane Williamson on Thursday overtook Australia’s Steven Smith and Indian captain Virat Kohli&nbsp;to become the number one Test batsman in the latest ICC rankings.</p>

<p>Williamson jumped from third to first after his Man of the Match effort leading the Black Caps to a memorable 101-run win against Pakistan while scoring a splendid 129 runs in the first innings and a rapid 21 in the second when New Zealand were trying to stretch the lead before declaring.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How it started v how it's going 😅 <a href="https://t.co/XKyEJUgUAS">pic.twitter.com/XKyEJUgUAS</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1344513625109782529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a></strong></p>

<p>Williamson described the feeling as “humbling” to overtake Smith, who was atop the ICC Test Rankings for 313 days in 2020, Kohli, who was sitting numero uno for 51 days. Smith dipped to third in the ICC rankings behind Kohli after registering scores of duck and eight in Australia’s second Test against India where Kohli was on paternity leave.</p>

<p>"They are incredible players of our generation," Williamson said as he arrived in Christchurch ahead of the second Pakistan Test which starts on Sunday.</p>

<p>"Those two players are the best so for me to sneak up perhaps in some way, is very surprising and humbling."&nbsp;</p>

<p>All three of Williamson, Smith and Kohli were named in the ICC Team of the Decade while the Aussie was named the Male Test Player of the Decade. Kohli, on the other hand, was awarded Best ODI Player of the Decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALOS READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-knighted-in-uks-new-year-honours-list-353538" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton knighted in UK's New Year Honours list</a></strong></p>

<p>Williamson, after achieving number one rank in ICC rankings, would be looking to guide New Zealand to another win against Pakistan in the second Test to be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India's Ajinkya Rahane jumped five places to be in the fifth spot after a sensational century in the Boxing Day Test vs Australia where he helped India to achieve an eight-wicket win to equalise the series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the bowlers' list, Mitchell Starc entered top five, jumping two spot after his performance in the Test series against India. Ravichandran Ashwin continued to reap rewards for his good run of form as he now sits in the seventh spot in the list.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇦🇺 Mitchell Starc enters top five<br />
🇮🇳 R Ashwin jumps to No.7<br />
🇮🇳 Jasprit Bumrah becomes No.9<br />
<br />
Latest update in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Test Rankings 👉 <a href="https://t.co/OMjjVwOboH">https://t.co/OMjjVwOboH</a> <a href="https://t.co/RLU1nMpfoV">pic.twitter.com/RLU1nMpfoV</a></p>
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New Zealand captain Kane Williamson on Thursday overtook Australia’s Steven Smith and Indian captain Virat Kohli to become the number one Test batsman in the latest ICC rankings.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson on Thursday overtook Australia’s Steven Smith and Indian captain Virat Kohli to become the number one Test batsman in the latest ICC rankings. Williamson jumped from third to first after his Man of the Match effort leading the Black Caps to a memorable 101-run win against Pakistan while scoring a splendid 129 runs in the first innings and a rapid 21 in the second when New Zealand were trying to stretch the lead before declaring. How it started v how it's going 😅 pic.twitter.com/XKyEJUgUAS — ICC (@ICC) December 31, 2020 × ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners Williamson described the feeling as “humbling” to overtake Smith, who was atop the ICC Test Rankings for 313 days in 2020, Kohli, who was sitting numero uno for 51 days. Smith dipped to third in the ICC rankings behind Kohli after registering scores of duck and eight in Australia’s second Test against India where Kohli was on paternity leave. "They are incredible players of our generation," Williamson said as he arrived in Christchurch ahead of the second Pakistan Test which starts on Sunday. "Those two players are the best so for me to sneak up perhaps in some way, is very surprising and humbling." All three of Williamson, Smith and Kohli were named in the ICC Team of the Decade while the Aussie was named the Male Test Player of the Decade. Kohli, on the other hand, was awarded Best ODI Player of the Decade. ALOS READ: Lewis Hamilton knighted in UK's New Year Honours list Williamson, after achieving number one rank in ICC rankings, would be looking to guide New Zealand to another win against Pakistan in the second Test to be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Meanwhile, India's Ajinkya Rahane jumped five places to be in the fifth spot after a sensational century in the Boxing Day Test vs Australia where he helped India to achieve an eight-wicket win to equalise the series 1-1. In the bowlers' list, Mitchell Starc entered top five, jumping two spot after his performance in the Test series against India. Ravichandran Ashwin continued to reap rewards for his good run of form as he now sits in the seventh spot in the list. 🇦🇺 Mitchell Starc enters top five 🇮🇳 R Ashwin jumps to No.7 🇮🇳 Jasprit Bumrah becomes No.9 Latest update in the @MRFWorldwide ICC Test Rankings 👉 https://t.co/OMjjVwOboH pic.twitter.com/RLU1nMpfoV — ICC (@ICC) December 31, 2020 ×

ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:11.5pt;
font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Virat Kohli leads the ranks with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja close in pursuit, according to the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report by&nbsp;Wizikey which has highlighted&nbsp;the top 100 Sports newsmakers in India in the year 2020.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">In 2020,&nbsp;the female cricket team has also seen a lot of buzz after</span><span style="font-size:
11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">winning the Women’s T20 World Cup. Players from the Indian Women’s Cricket team, Hamanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj have managed to stay in the limelight, owing to their splendid performance in their respective matches.</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><img alt="Power Rankings 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5cc68172-dc19-423a-82f6-19516635b550" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_11.JPG" /></span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Commenting on the same&nbsp;Anshul Sushil, CEO &amp; Co-Founder, Wizikey, said, “ India has always been a cricket-loving nation. The pandemic did lock down sports enthusiasts to the vicinity of their drawing rooms but failed to hamper their spirits. The Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report is a validation of that infectious energy and zeal that we as a country have felt together.”</span><span style="font-size:
11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">“To create the Newsmakers list in each sector, we at Wizikey, leverage Big Data Technologies such as Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning to analyse millions of news data points. That is how we arrive at a rank of 100 newsmakers in each category,” he added.</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><img alt="Power Rankings 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5008f6d-a65f-4c4f-a8ee-d8e52dfe6b89" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_2.JPG" /></span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
text-align:justify;line-height:normal;background:white"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: normal; background: white;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">More interesting finds from the report-</span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;
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<ul type="disc">
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
     auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
     background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
     mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
     mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">17 out of the top 20 sports personalities in the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report are athletes from the Indian Cricket Team</span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
     &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
     auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
     background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
     mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
     mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Virat Kolhi received the highest visibility in the rank because of his spectacular performance in the IPL, his stature as a fashion icon and his expected parenthood</span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:
     &quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
     mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
     auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
     background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
     mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
     mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">MC Mary Kom and PV&nbsp;Sindhu were shining in the top 20 since they were recipients of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awards respectively among the eight sportspeople named for these prestigious awards</span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
     &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
     auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
     background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
     mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
     mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Indian Women's Hockey captain Rani Rampal was awarded the ‘World Games Athlete of the year’ and also the Padma Shri award, therefore her news presence pushed up to Rank 37</span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:
     &quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
     mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-bottom:
     12.0pt;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
     background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
     mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
     mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Other than in cricket and football in all other sports, women players have gained higher visibility when compared to their male counterparts</span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
     &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;
     font-family:&quot;Segoe UI&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
     mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></p>


Virat Kohli leads the ranks with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja close in pursuit, according to the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report by Wizikey which has highlighted the top 100 Sports newsmakers in India in the year 2020.

Virat Kohli leads the ranks with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja close in pursuit, according to the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report by Wizikey which has highlighted the top 100 Sports newsmakers in India in the year 2020. In 2020, the female cricket team has also seen a lot of buzz after winning the Women’s T20 World Cup. Players from the Indian Women’s Cricket team, Hamanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj have managed to stay in the limelight, owing to their splendid performance in their respective matches. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia Commenting on the same Anshul Sushil, CEO & Co-Founder, Wizikey, said, “ India has always been a cricket-loving nation. The pandemic did lock down sports enthusiasts to the vicinity of their drawing rooms but failed to hamper their spirits. The Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report is a validation of that infectious energy and zeal that we as a country have felt together.” “To create the Newsmakers list in each sector, we at Wizikey, leverage Big Data Technologies such as Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning to analyse millions of news data points. That is how we arrive at a rank of 100 newsmakers in each category,” he added. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 More interesting finds from the report- 17 out of the top 20 sports personalities in the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report are athletes from the Indian Cricket Team Virat Kolhi received the highest visibility in the rank because of his spectacular performance in the IPL, his stature as a fashion icon and his expected parenthood MC Mary Kom and PV Sindhu were shining in the top 20 since they were recipients of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awards respectively among the eight sportspeople named for these prestigious awards Indian Women's Hockey captain Rani Rampal was awarded the ‘World Games Athlete of the year’ and also the Padma Shri award, therefore her news presence pushed up to Rank 37 Other than in cricket and football in all other sports, women players have gained higher visibility when compared to their male counterparts

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul top the charts: Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report

ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners

<p class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli, India’s captain in all formats of the game, has been named as International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Player of the Decade as well as the Sir Garfield Sober's Male Cricketer of the Decade as the governing body announced the result of the ICC Decade Awards on Monday.&nbsp;Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Kohli’s stature in world cricket continues to grow with the swashbuckling right handed-batsman now being named as the ICC Male Player of the Decade.&nbsp;Kohli accumulated most runs in the last decade with a staggering 20, 396 runs under his belt. The Indian skipper also posted more centuries - 66 - in the last decade and also most half-centuries 94. Kohli also had the highest average (70+ innings) - 56.97 and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2011 under the leadership of MS Dhoni.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"My only intention was to make winning contributions for the team and I just strive to do that in every game. Stats just become the byproduct of what you want to do on the field."<br />
<br />
📽️ Virat Kohli reacts to winning the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade award 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/MF7LDRhg3v">pic.twitter.com/MF7LDRhg3v</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343476314699948033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳 VIRAT KOHLI is the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏<br />
<br />
🔝 Only player with 10,000-plus ODI runs in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period<br />
💯 39 centuries, 48 fifties<br />
🅰️ 61.83 average<br />
✊ 112 catches<br />
<br />
A run machine 💥🙌 <a href="https://t.co/0l0cDy4TYz">pic.twitter.com/0l0cDy4TYz</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343475630357282817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p class="MsoNormal">Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade.&nbsp;Steve Smith, who was named Men's Test Player of the Decade, amassed 7040 runs in the last decade with a breathtaking average of 65.79. He scored 26 centuries and 28 fifties in this period, in what has been a rollercoaster of a ride for the Aussie maestro.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇦🇺 STEVE SMITH is the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏<br />
<br />
🏏 7040 Test runs in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period<br />
🅰️ 65.79 average ➜ Highest in top 50<br />
💯 26 hundreds, 28 fifties<br />
<br />
Unique, relentless and unbelievably consistent 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/UlXvHaFbDz">pic.twitter.com/UlXvHaFbDz</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343477245701214208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rashid Khan, meanwhile, got awarded for his meteoric rise, as he bagged 89 wickets in this period and averaged just 12.62. The Afghan maestro scalped three four-wicket hauls and two five-fers in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇦🇫 RASHID KHAN is the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏<br />
<br />
☝️ Highest wicket-taker in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period ➜ 89<br />
🅰️ 12.62 average 🤯<br />
💥 Three four-wicket hauls, two five-fors<br />
<br />
What a story ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Y59Y6nCs98">pic.twitter.com/Y59Y6nCs98</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343477139681771521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><o:p>MS Dhoni won&nbsp;the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade. The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011.&nbsp;</o:p></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳 MS DHONI wins the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade 👏👏<br />
<br />
The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpiritOfCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpiritOfCricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/3eCpyyBXwu">pic.twitter.com/3eCpyyBXwu</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343479003668217856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whereas Australian women cricketer Ellyse Perry won the Women's T20I and ODI Cricketer of the Year along with winning Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade. Perry, in T20Is, scored 1155 runs at an average of 30.39 and picked up 89 wickets while winning the T20 World Cup in 2012, 2014, 2018 and 2020.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The phenomenal Ellyse Perry wins the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade 🙌<br />
<br />
🏏 4349 international runs during the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period<br />
☝️ 213 wickets<br />
🤯 Four-time <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a> champion<br />
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketWorldCup</a> 2013 champion<br />
<br />
A clean sweep for Perry ⭐ <a href="https://t.co/yc9GjGBlFS">pic.twitter.com/yc9GjGBlFS</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343480620643717122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>In ODIs, Perry scored 2621 runs at an average of 68.97. She picked up 98 wickets and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The complete list of winners and nominees for the ICC Awards of the Decade:</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period –</p>

<ul>
	<li>R Ashwin (India)</li>
	<li><strong>Virat Kohli (India) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Joe Root (England)</li>
	<li>Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Steve Smith (Australia)</li>
	<li>AB de Villiers (South Africa)</li>
	<li>Kane Williamson (New Zealand)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;–<strong>&nbsp;</strong>The best overall performer in women’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period.</p>

<ul>
	<li>Suzie Bates (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>Meg Lanning (Australia)</li>
	<li><strong>Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Mithali Raj (India)</li>
	<li>Sarah Taylor (England)</li>
	<li>Stafanie Taylor (West Indies)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s Test cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li>James Anderson (England)</li>
	<li>Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Virat Kohli (India)</li>
	<li>Joe Root (England)</li>
	<li>Yasir Shah (Pakistan)</li>
	<li><strong>Steve Smith (Australia) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Kane Williamson (New Zealand)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;</strong>– The best overall performer in men’s ODI cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li>MS Dhoni (India)</li>
	<li><strong>Virat Kohli (India) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Rohit Sharma (India)</li>
	<li>Mitchell Starc (Australia)</li>
	<li>AB de Villiers (South Africa)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;</strong>– The best overall performer in women’s ODI cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li>Suzie Bates (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>Jhulan Goswami (India)</li>
	<li>Meg Lanning (Australia)</li>
	<li><strong>Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Mithali Raj (India)</li>
	<li>Stafanie Taylor (West Indies)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s T20I cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li>Aaron Finch (Australia)</li>
	<li>Chris Gayle (West Indies)</li>
	<li><strong>Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Virat Kohli (India)</li>
	<li>Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Rohit Sharma (India)</li>
	<li>Imran Tahir (South Africa)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;– The best overall performer in women’s T20I cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li>Sophie Devine (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>Deandra Dottin (West Indies)</li>
	<li>Alyssa Healy (Australia)</li>
	<li>Meg Lanning (Australia)</li>
	<li><strong>Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Anya Shrubsole (England)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Men’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s Associate cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li>Richie Berrington (Scotland)</li>
	<li>Peter Borren (Netherlands)</li>
	<li><strong>Kyle Coetzer (Scotland) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Paras Khadka (Nepal)</li>
	<li>Calum MacLeod (Scotland)</li>
	<li>Assad Vala (PNG)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade</strong>&nbsp;– The best overall performer in women’s Associate cricket during the performance period</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Kathryn Bryce (Scotland) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>Sarah Bryce (Scotland)</li>
	<li>Natthakan Chantham (Thailand)</li>
	<li>Sterre Kalis (Netherlands)</li>
	<li>Chanida Sutthiruang (Thailand)</li>
	<li>Sornnorin Tippoch (Thailand)<strong>&nbsp;</strong></li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade&nbsp;</strong>– An action, moment, gesture, or decision on the field of play in international cricket during the performance period which best reflects the Spirit of Cricket.</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>2011 Winner – MS Dhoni (India) – Winner</strong></li>
	<li>2012 Winner – Daniel Vettori (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>2013 Winner – Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>2014 Winner – Katherine Brunt (England)</li>
	<li>2015 Winner – Brendon McCullum (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>2016 Winner – Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan)</li>
	<li>2017 Winner – Anya Shrubsole (England)</li>
	<li>2018 Winner – Kane Williamson (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>2019 Winner – Virat Kohli (India)</li>
</ul>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Virat Kohli, India’s captain in all formats of the game, has been named as International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Player of the Decade as well as the Sir Garfield Sober's Male Cricketer of the Decade as the governing body announced the result of the ICC Decade Awards on Monday.

Virat Kohli, India’s captain in all formats of the game, has been named as International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Player of the Decade as well as the Sir Garfield Sober's Male Cricketer of the Decade as the governing body announced the result of the ICC Decade Awards on Monday. Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade. Kohli’s stature in world cricket continues to grow with the swashbuckling right handed-batsman now being named as the ICC Male Player of the Decade. Kohli accumulated most runs in the last decade with a staggering 20, 396 runs under his belt. The Indian skipper also posted more centuries - 66 - in the last decade and also most half-centuries 94. Kohli also had the highest average (70+ innings) - 56.97 and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2011 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. "My only intention was to make winning contributions for the team and I just strive to do that in every game. Stats just become the byproduct of what you want to do on the field." 📽️ Virat Kohli reacts to winning the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade award 🙌#ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/MF7LDRhg3v — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × 🇮🇳 VIRAT KOHLI is the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 🔝 Only player with 10,000-plus ODI runs in the #ICCAwards period 💯 39 centuries, 48 fifties 🅰️ 61.83 average ✊ 112 catches A run machine 💥🙌 pic.twitter.com/0l0cDy4TYz — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade. Steve Smith, who was named Men's Test Player of the Decade, amassed 7040 runs in the last decade with a breathtaking average of 65.79. He scored 26 centuries and 28 fifties in this period, in what has been a rollercoaster of a ride for the Aussie maestro. 🇦🇺 STEVE SMITH is the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 🏏 7040 Test runs in the #ICCAwards period 🅰️ 65.79 average ➜ Highest in top 50 💯 26 hundreds, 28 fifties Unique, relentless and unbelievably consistent 🙌 pic.twitter.com/UlXvHaFbDz — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × Rashid Khan, meanwhile, got awarded for his meteoric rise, as he bagged 89 wickets in this period and averaged just 12.62. The Afghan maestro scalped three four-wicket hauls and two five-fers in the shortest format of the game. 🇦🇫 RASHID KHAN is the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 ☝️ Highest wicket-taker in the #ICCAwards period ➜ 89 🅰️ 12.62 average 🤯 💥 Three four-wicket hauls, two five-fors What a story ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Y59Y6nCs98 — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × MS Dhoni won the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade. The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011. 🇮🇳 MS DHONI wins the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade 👏👏 The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011.#ICCAwards | #SpiritOfCricket pic.twitter.com/3eCpyyBXwu — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × Whereas Australian women cricketer Ellyse Perry won the Women's T20I and ODI Cricketer of the Year along with winning Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade. Perry, in T20Is, scored 1155 runs at an average of 30.39 and picked up 89 wickets while winning the T20 World Cup in 2012, 2014, 2018 and 2020. The phenomenal Ellyse Perry wins the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade 🙌 🏏 4349 international runs during the #ICCAwards period ☝️ 213 wickets 🤯 Four-time @T20WorldCup champion 🏆 @CricketWorldCup 2013 champion A clean sweep for Perry ⭐ pic.twitter.com/yc9GjGBlFS — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × In ODIs, Perry scored 2621 runs at an average of 68.97. She picked up 98 wickets and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2013. The complete list of winners and nominees for the ICC Awards of the Decade: Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period – R Ashwin (India) Virat Kohli (India) – Winner Joe Root (England) Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) Steve Smith (Australia) AB de Villiers (South Africa) Kane Williamson (New Zealand) Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period. Suzie Bates (New Zealand) Meg Lanning (Australia) Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner Mithali Raj (India) Sarah Taylor (England) Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s Test cricket during the performance period James Anderson (England) Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka) Virat Kohli (India) Joe Root (England) Yasir Shah (Pakistan) Steve Smith (Australia) – Winner Kane Williamson (New Zealand) ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s ODI cricket during the performance period MS Dhoni (India) Virat Kohli (India) – Winner Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) Rohit Sharma (India) Mitchell Starc (Australia) AB de Villiers (South Africa) ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s ODI cricket during the performance period Suzie Bates (New Zealand) Jhulan Goswami (India) Meg Lanning (Australia) Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner Mithali Raj (India) Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s T20I cricket during the performance period Aaron Finch (Australia) Chris Gayle (West Indies) Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – Winner Virat Kohli (India) Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) Rohit Sharma (India) Imran Tahir (South Africa) ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s T20I cricket during the performance period Sophie Devine (New Zealand) Deandra Dottin (West Indies) Alyssa Healy (Australia) Meg Lanning (Australia) Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner Anya Shrubsole (England) ICC Men’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s Associate cricket during the performance period Richie Berrington (Scotland) Peter Borren (Netherlands) Kyle Coetzer (Scotland) – Winner Paras Khadka (Nepal) Calum MacLeod (Scotland) Assad Vala (PNG) ICC Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s Associate cricket during the performance period Kathryn Bryce (Scotland) – Winner Sarah Bryce (Scotland) Natthakan Chantham (Thailand) Sterre Kalis (Netherlands) Chanida Sutthiruang (Thailand) Sornnorin Tippoch (Thailand) ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade – An action, moment, gesture, or decision on the field of play in international cricket during the performance period which best reflects the Spirit of Cricket. 2011 Winner – MS Dhoni (India) – Winner 2012 Winner – Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) 2013 Winner – Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) 2014 Winner – Katherine Brunt (England) 2015 Winner – Brendon McCullum (New Zealand) 2016 Winner – Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan) 2017 Winner – Anya Shrubsole (England) 2018 Winner – Kane Williamson (New Zealand) 2019 Winner – Virat Kohli (India)

Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list

<p>Stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century has put India in the driver's seat at the end of Day 2 of Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India took a lead of 82 runs over after a 100-run partnership between Jadeja and Rahane. India's performance, especially Rahane's knock, was appreciated by many cricketers, including Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Another great day for us. Proper test cricket at its best. Absolutely top knock from Jinks,” tweeted Kohli.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Another great day for us. Proper test cricket at its best. Absolutely top knock from Jinks👌<a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1343104074485358594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh also heaped praises on Rahane’s innings. He wrote, “A captain’s Hundred points symbol solid, gritty, and calm just like his personality @ajinkyarahane88 sharp mind in the field setting as well! @imjadeja looking great, how good has he become batting lower down the order. Great start for @RealShubmanGill! We are looking good for a decent lead.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A captains 💯 solid , gritty and calm just like his personality <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> sharp mind in field setting aswell ! <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imjadeja</a> looking great how good has he become batting lowerdown the order for🇮🇳 ! Great start for <a href="https://twitter.com/RealShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealShubmanGill</a> ! We are looking good for a decent lead 👊🏽</p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1343087177228451842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former opener Virender Sehwag also congratulated Rahane on playing a captain’s knock. Taking to Twitter, Sehwag wrote: “Brilliant hundred @ajinkyarahane88, determination and class.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Brilliant hundred by <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> .<br />
Determination and class.</p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1343086584111878144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Indian left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan also lauded Rahane for his gritty batting. He wrote: “Led the side well now Solid 100 by @ajinkyarahane88. Team India in the driving seat now.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Led the side well now Solid 100 by <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> Team India in the driving seat now</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1343084633643053056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mohammad Kaif and Harbhajan Singh took to Twitter to laud the interim skipper.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> shows Test match batting is about swallowing your ego. Lie low for the first two sessions, show your swagger in the final session. Mumbai ishtyle Test batting. Top effort skipper, kudos!</p>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1343089392064233472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Brilliant 100 .. Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> captain leading from the front 🏏⭐️👌 <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1343096475346038784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century has put India in the driver's seat at the end of Day 2 of Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century has put India in the driver's seat at the end of Day 2 of Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. India took a lead of 82 runs over after a 100-run partnership between Jadeja and Rahane. India's performance, especially Rahane's knock, was appreciated by many cricketers, including Virat Kohli. “Another great day for us. Proper test cricket at its best. Absolutely top knock from Jinks,” tweeted Kohli. Another great day for us. Proper test cricket at its best. Absolutely top knock from Jinks👌@ajinkyarahane88 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 27, 2020 × Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh also heaped praises on Rahane’s innings. He wrote, “A captain’s Hundred points symbol solid, gritty, and calm just like his personality @ajinkyarahane88 sharp mind in the field setting as well! @imjadeja looking great, how good has he become batting lower down the order. Great start for @RealShubmanGill! We are looking good for a decent lead.” A captains 💯 solid , gritty and calm just like his personality @ajinkyarahane88 sharp mind in field setting aswell ! @imjadeja looking great how good has he become batting lowerdown the order for🇮🇳 ! Great start for @RealShubmanGill ! We are looking good for a decent lead 👊🏽 — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) December 27, 2020 × Former opener Virender Sehwag also congratulated Rahane on playing a captain’s knock. Taking to Twitter, Sehwag wrote: “Brilliant hundred @ajinkyarahane88, determination and class.” Brilliant hundred by @ajinkyarahane88 . Determination and class. — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) December 27, 2020 × Former Indian left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan also lauded Rahane for his gritty batting. He wrote: “Led the side well now Solid 100 by @ajinkyarahane88. Team India in the driving seat now.” Led the side well now Solid 100 by @ajinkyarahane88 Team India in the driving seat now — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) December 27, 2020 × Mohammad Kaif and Harbhajan Singh took to Twitter to laud the interim skipper. .@ajinkyarahane88 shows Test match batting is about swallowing your ego. Lie low for the first two sessions, show your swagger in the final session. Mumbai ishtyle Test batting. Top effort skipper, kudos! — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) December 27, 2020 × Brilliant 100 .. Well done @ajinkyarahane88 captain leading from the front 🏏⭐️👌 @BCCI — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 27, 2020 ×

'Top knock from Jinks': Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century at MCG

<p>Stand-in captain of the Indian team Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that he had apologized to Virat Kohli after the terrible mix-up which led to the Indian skipper getting run-out in the Adelaide Test against Australia.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli was all set to get his 28th century – fourth in Adelaide – but walked back to the pavilion after a mix-up with Rahane. Kohli’s deputy in Test cricket, Rahane called for a run but backed out after realizing the fielder was quick to get to the ball but with Kohli already there in mid-pitch, it was too late by then.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the end of day's play I went and said sorry to him (Kohli) but he was all okay, he was okay about it," Rahane said on the eve of the second Test in Melbourne.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stat-alert-team-indias-88-year-old-history-on-line-in-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-352268" hreflang="en">Stat alert! Team India's 88-year-old history on line in Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>"We both understood that the situation we were in, we were going well at that point, but such things happen in cricket, you got to respect that and you got to move forward."</p>

<p>Rahane also admitted that the run-out changed the momentum in favour of Australia. India were 188/3 in the first innings before the incident but were bundled out for 244.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was a really tough one, obviously we were going really well that moment, our partnership was good, and I could actually see that momentum going towards Australia after that run out," Rahane said.</p>

<p>However, India failed to cope up with the hammer blow and succumbed in front of the devastating Australian bowling attack. The visitors were bundled out for 36 in the second innings and went on to lost the match by eight wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-shubman-gill-to-debut-352247" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Boxing Day Test vs Australia; Shubman Gill to debut</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have got to back our basics, back our plans. We just had one bad hour so it is all about staying positive, backing your own ability and batting in partnerships. As a batting unit, that matters a lot: communication and batting in partnerships. We are focussing on that,” he added.</p>


Stand-in captain of the Indian team Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that he had apologized to Virat Kohli after the terrible mix-up which led to the Indian skipper getting run-out in the Adelaide Test against Australia.

Stand-in captain of the Indian team Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that he had apologized to Virat Kohli after the terrible mix-up which led to the Indian skipper getting run-out in the Adelaide Test against Australia. Virat Kohli was all set to get his 28th century – fourth in Adelaide – but walked back to the pavilion after a mix-up with Rahane. Kohli’s deputy in Test cricket, Rahane called for a run but backed out after realizing the fielder was quick to get to the ball but with Kohli already there in mid-pitch, it was too late by then. "After the end of day's play I went and said sorry to him (Kohli) but he was all okay, he was okay about it," Rahane said on the eve of the second Test in Melbourne. ALSO READ: Stat alert! Team India's 88-year-old history on line in Boxing Day Test vs Australia "We both understood that the situation we were in, we were going well at that point, but such things happen in cricket, you got to respect that and you got to move forward." Rahane also admitted that the run-out changed the momentum in favour of Australia. India were 188/3 in the first innings before the incident but were bundled out for 244. "It was a really tough one, obviously we were going really well that moment, our partnership was good, and I could actually see that momentum going towards Australia after that run out," Rahane said. However, India failed to cope up with the hammer blow and succumbed in front of the devastating Australian bowling attack. The visitors were bundled out for 36 in the second innings and went on to lost the match by eight wickets. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Boxing Day Test vs Australia; Shubman Gill to debut "We have got to back our basics, back our plans. We just had one bad hour so it is all about staying positive, backing your own ability and batting in partnerships. As a batting unit, that matters a lot: communication and batting in partnerships. We are focussing on that,” he added.

'Apologised to Virat Kohli,' says Ajinkya Rahane on Adelaide run-out incident

<p>Team India has failed to establish their&nbsp;dominance in the series against Australia. Their mammoth collapse in the first Test raised several questions on the team's management, including Kohli's captaincy.&nbsp;<strong>Virat Kohli</strong>'s departure at a time like this has not gone down with many former players, one of them being former left-arm spinner <strong>Dilip Doshi</strong>. According to Dilip, it is the captain's task to take charge of the ‘sinking ship’.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-are-going-to-blow-india-away-in-boxing-day-test-shane-warne-352036" hreflang="en">Australia are going to blow India away in Boxing Day Test: Shane Warne</a></p>

<p>“To me, captaining India would be the prime-most thing on my mind. It’s a sinking ship. This is the time when they need their captain the most. If you leave at this time, you are leaving the side to your deputy with a lot of questions unanswered. I only hope and pray that the team shows enough character to come out of this,” Doshi told Sportskeeda in a video interview.</p>

<p>“I know this is a modern phenomenon that people believe that they ought to be by the side of their family and spouses when they deliver a child. I understand all that. But when you are on a national duty… If I put myself in his shoes, I wouldn’t have gone. For me, national duty comes before everything else.</p>

<p>Despite agreeing to the legality of the situation, he said that he 'personally' would chosen to stay and play for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is a highly individual and institutional approach. Legally, you cannot stop somebody doing that. The cricket board cannot have a rule saying the players cannot go and be on the side of their spouses for such an occasion. Personally, I wouldn’t have gone,” added Doshi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/melbourne-on-standby-for-third-test-sydney-still-preferred-option-nick-hockley-352020" hreflang="en">Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley</a></p>

<p>Doshi went on to term Kohli as an 'outstanding player' but also said that the team will definitely miss Kohli the batsman that the skipper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He’s an outstanding player. The team will miss him as a player more than as a captain. Him being at the crease gives a lot of confidence to other people,” said the 73-year-old.</p>

<p>After a poor start to the series, India will take on Australia in the Boxing Day Test match where Ajinkya Rahane will lead the hosts.&nbsp;</p>


Team India has failed to establish their dominance in the series against Australia. Their mammoth collapse in the first Test raised several questions on the team's management, including Kohli's captaincy.

Team India has failed to establish their dominance in the series against Australia. Their mammoth collapse in the first Test raised several questions on the team's management, including Kohli's captaincy. Virat Kohli's departure at a time like this has not gone down with many former players, one of them being former left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi. According to Dilip, it is the captain's task to take charge of the ‘sinking ship’. Also read: Australia are going to blow India away in Boxing Day Test: Shane Warne “To me, captaining India would be the prime-most thing on my mind. It’s a sinking ship. This is the time when they need their captain the most. If you leave at this time, you are leaving the side to your deputy with a lot of questions unanswered. I only hope and pray that the team shows enough character to come out of this,” Doshi told Sportskeeda in a video interview. “I know this is a modern phenomenon that people believe that they ought to be by the side of their family and spouses when they deliver a child. I understand all that. But when you are on a national duty… If I put myself in his shoes, I wouldn’t have gone. For me, national duty comes before everything else. Despite agreeing to the legality of the situation, he said that he 'personally' would chosen to stay and play for India. “This is a highly individual and institutional approach. Legally, you cannot stop somebody doing that. The cricket board cannot have a rule saying the players cannot go and be on the side of their spouses for such an occasion. Personally, I wouldn’t have gone,” added Doshi. Also read: Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley Doshi went on to term Kohli as an 'outstanding player' but also said that the team will definitely miss Kohli the batsman that the skipper. “He’s an outstanding player. The team will miss him as a player more than as a captain. Him being at the crease gives a lot of confidence to other people,” said the 73-year-old. After a poor start to the series, India will take on Australia in the Boxing Day Test match where Ajinkya Rahane will lead the hosts.

'It's a sinking ship, I wouldn’t have gone': Dilip Doshi on Virat Kohli's paternity leave

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