With 'rift' rumours done and dusted, here's reliving 5 top partnerships between Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain.

Ahead of India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference and stated that he had no prior communication with the board and selectors before being removed as the ODI captain. In addition, he claimed that Sourav Ganguly had never approached him to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper, contradicting the BCCI chief's claims. Hence, there is clear tension between Kohli and the BCCI.

While the board hasn't reacted to the statements made by Kohli in the recent presser, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has defended BCCI's silence.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-no-1-league-but-akram-opines-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-explains-why-they-need-to-think-back-438451">IPL is No. 1 league but...: Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back'</a>

“It's a sensible topic and it would have been naïve if there were exchange of words over the matter to the board would have sent a show cause notice. That is not the way. Team in on a tour. Main objective is to play cricket and win matches and play for the country,” Butt said on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

He added, "I think they have been sensible about it, all of them. And they should keep it under wraps. Better not to give media half-volleys or full tosses or lese you will be hit for boundaries or sixes. Obviously they have had a discussion about it, but it has obviously been all internal. And that is the way to go."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

Earlier, Ganguly had reacted to Kohli's presser and told TV reporters, "No statement, no press conference," He added, "We will deal with it. Leave it to BCCI."&nbsp;

Thus, things aren't its best in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India are in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three Tests versus the Proteas, starting from December 26 in Centurion.

Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs and take charge of the Men in Blue, in South Africa, in early 2022.

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain.

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain. Ahead of India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference and stated that he had no prior communication with the board and selectors before being removed as the ODI captain. In addition, he claimed that Sourav Ganguly had never approached him to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper, contradicting the BCCI chief's claims. Hence, there is clear tension between Kohli and the BCCI. While the board hasn't reacted to the statements made by Kohli in the recent presser, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has defended BCCI's silence. ALSO READ | IPL is No. 1 league but...: Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back' “It's a sensible topic and it would have been naïve if there were exchange of words over the matter to the board would have sent a show cause notice. That is not the way. Team in on a tour. Main objective is to play cricket and win matches and play for the country,” Butt said on his Youtube channel. He added, "I think they have been sensible about it, all of them. And they should keep it under wraps. Better not to give media half-volleys or full tosses or lese you will be hit for boundaries or sixes. Obviously they have had a discussion about it, but it has obviously been all internal. And that is the way to go." ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli Earlier, Ganguly had reacted to Kohli's presser and told TV reporters, "No statement, no press conference," He added, "We will deal with it. Leave it to BCCI." Thus, things aren't its best in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India are in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three Tests versus the Proteas, starting from December 26 in Centurion. Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs and take charge of the Men in Blue, in South Africa, in early 2022.

Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row

Team India were regarded as one of the strongest contenders for winning the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Having entered the showpiece event on the back of playing the final leg of IPL 14, also held in the UAE, many thought Virat Kohli &amp; Co. had a golden opportunity of winning the trophy. However, the one-time winners bowed out of the mega edition after being eliminated in the Super 12 round.

India opened their campaign in the Super 12 round facing the arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai. They were taken aback by Pakistan's fielding and bowling before the Men in Green openers -- Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan -- brought India on the mat with a 10-wicket win. In India's next encounter, they lost to New Zealand by 8 wickets and came closer to elimination. After two big losses, India did recover to win three in a row -- versus Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia -- but the writing was on the wall by then.

Hence, former Pakistan captain and pacer Wasim Akram has opened up on India's T20 WC debacle. Despite having IPL as a perfect platform for preparing for the T20 WC and comprising some superstar cricketers in their line-up, India have failed to repeat their 2007 heroics and once again win the big title in the shortest format. Hence, Akram explained why India need to 'think back'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-indian-cricketer-backs-virat-kohli-to-come-out-all-guns-blazing-and-revive-test-career-in-sa-438426">Former Indian cricketer backs Virat Kohli to come out all guns blazing and revive Test career in SA</a>

"They were the favourites to win the World Cup. And I suppose after the first game… after especially Shaheen Afridi's first over, they never could recover. Then you see, there were a lot of talks about they concentrate on the IPL a lot more," Akram said in a video uploaded by Sport360.

"Their players don't play against international players as much in the other league. And probably they were right at times because very few have faced – Pakistan and India have hardly played cricket – very few have faced Shaheen, Haris Rauf or Hasan Ali," he asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-likely-dates-revealed-set-to-be-a-two-day-affair-438406">IPL 2022 mega auction likely dates revealed, set to be a two-day affair</a>

He added, "When you play leagues in different countries – one or two, I’m not saying play every league – at least your players get the experience to play against the other bowlers, different pitches, different teams, different conditions. So I think they (India) have to think back… IPL is the number 1 league, yes, money-wise, talent-wise but they have to allow the players at least one or two more leagues worldwide."

After the T20 WC, India have had several changes in their setup. Kohli resigned as the T20 captain -- as he had already mentioned before the mega tournament -- whereas BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain in early December, sacking Kohli as the ODI skipper. For the unversed, Rohit had already taken over as a T20I captain post Kohli's resignation.

Ravi Shastri, on the other hand, was succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach after the former's tenure came to an end post the T20 WC.

Team India were regarded as one of the strongest contenders for winning the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Having entered the showpiece event on the back of playing the final leg of IPL 14, also held in the UAE, many thought Virat Kohli & Co.

Team India were regarded as one of the strongest contenders for winning the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Having entered the showpiece event on the back of playing the final leg of IPL 14, also held in the UAE, many thought Virat Kohli & Co. had a golden opportunity of winning the trophy. However, the one-time winners bowed out of the mega edition after being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India opened their campaign in the Super 12 round facing the arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai. They were taken aback by Pakistan's fielding and bowling before the Men in Green openers -- Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan -- brought India on the mat with a 10-wicket win. In India's next encounter, they lost to New Zealand by 8 wickets and came closer to elimination. After two big losses, India did recover to win three in a row -- versus Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia -- but the writing was on the wall by then. Hence, former Pakistan captain and pacer Wasim Akram has opened up on India's T20 WC debacle. Despite having IPL as a perfect platform for preparing for the T20 WC and comprising some superstar cricketers in their line-up, India have failed to repeat their 2007 heroics and once again win the big title in the shortest format. Hence, Akram explained why India need to 'think back'. ALSO READ | Former Indian cricketer backs Virat Kohli to come out all guns blazing and revive Test career in SA "They were the favourites to win the World Cup. And I suppose after the first game… after especially Shaheen Afridi's first over, they never could recover. Then you see, there were a lot of talks about they concentrate on the IPL a lot more," Akram said in a video uploaded by Sport360. "Their players don't play against international players as much in the other league. And probably they were right at times because very few have faced – Pakistan and India have hardly played cricket – very few have faced Shaheen, Haris Rauf or Hasan Ali," he asserted. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction likely dates revealed, set to be a two-day affair He added, "When you play leagues in different countries – one or two, I’m not saying play every league – at least your players get the experience to play against the other bowlers, different pitches, different teams, different conditions. So I think they (India) have to think back… IPL is the number 1 league, yes, money-wise, talent-wise but they have to allow the players at least one or two more leagues worldwide." After the T20 WC, India have had several changes in their setup. Kohli resigned as the T20 captain -- as he had already mentioned before the mega tournament -- whereas BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain in early December, sacking Kohli as the ODI skipper. For the unversed, Rohit had already taken over as a T20I captain post Kohli's resignation. Ravi Shastri, on the other hand, was succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach after the former's tenure came to an end post the T20 WC.

'IPL is No. 1 league but...': Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back'

Virat Kohli-led Team India are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa at Centurion, which will get underway on December 26. Ahead of the three Tests, the onus is on King Kohli. The 33-year-old has been in the news due to his recent presser, before India's departure to SA, where he openly contradicted from Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI's claims regarding the ODI captaincy switch and him resigning as a T20I skipper.

While things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI, nothing of that will matter when India take on SA in the upcoming Tests with an aim to win their first-ever series in whites on African soil. For that to happen, Kohli will have to lead from the front with the willow in hand. For the unversed, he hasn't had much success in Tests in 2021 whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. In the calendar year, he averages a mere 28.41 in whites, with a high-score of 72. Hence, it remains to be seen how the right-hander will perform with the bat.

Nonetheless, former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Saba Karim has backed Kohli to come good and deliver with the bat in the South Africa tour. He feels the burden of not being the limited-overs captain will help Kohli in many ways.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-wtc-points-table-after-australia-thrash-england-in-day-night-ashes-test-in-adelaide-438393">Updated WTC points table after Australia thrash England in day-night Ashes Test in Adelaide</a>

Speaking during an interaction on&nbsp;India News, Karim said, "It seems a burden has been removed from Virat Kohli's head. He can play with an open mind now, he can revive his Test career afresh. The expectation is that he will dish out performances like he was doing two years back.

“If he bats with an open mind and approach, he can repeat those performances. I have full belief that the form he has shown in the practice sessions, the same form will be seen in the match as well,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

India's last Test series versus South Africa, on African soil, came in early 2018. Back then, Kohli-led India competed very well versus the Proteas but lost 2-1. Will the script change this time around? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli-led Team India are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa at Centurion, which will get underway on December 26. Ahead of the three Tests, the onus is on King Kohli.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa at Centurion, which will get underway on December 26. Ahead of the three Tests, the onus is on King Kohli. The 33-year-old has been in the news due to his recent presser, before India's departure to SA, where he openly contradicted from Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI's claims regarding the ODI captaincy switch and him resigning as a T20I skipper. While things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI, nothing of that will matter when India take on SA in the upcoming Tests with an aim to win their first-ever series in whites on African soil. For that to happen, Kohli will have to lead from the front with the willow in hand. For the unversed, he hasn't had much success in Tests in 2021 whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. In the calendar year, he averages a mere 28.41 in whites, with a high-score of 72. Hence, it remains to be seen how the right-hander will perform with the bat. Nonetheless, former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Saba Karim has backed Kohli to come good and deliver with the bat in the South Africa tour. He feels the burden of not being the limited-overs captain will help Kohli in many ways. ALSO READ | Updated WTC points table after Australia thrash England in day-night Ashes Test in Adelaide Speaking during an interaction on India News, Karim said, "It seems a burden has been removed from Virat Kohli's head. He can play with an open mind now, he can revive his Test career afresh. The expectation is that he will dish out performances like he was doing two years back. “If he bats with an open mind and approach, he can repeat those performances. I have full belief that the form he has shown in the practice sessions, the same form will be seen in the match as well,” he added. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli India's last Test series versus South Africa, on African soil, came in early 2018. Back then, Kohli-led India competed very well versus the Proteas but lost 2-1. Will the script change this time around? Only time will tell...

Former Indian cricketer backs Virat Kohli to come out all guns blazing and revive Test career in SA

The Indian cricket team's preparations are underway ahead of the start of the three-match Test series against South Africa. Virat Kohli &amp; Co. have been undergoing intense training sessions in Centurion ahead of the series-opener as they aim to get off to a winning start against the hosts.

BCCI on Monday shared a video of the Indian players enjoying a training session at the SuperSport Park where head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the team.&nbsp;The video started with Dravid encouraging the players for an intense and quality practice session before batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey gave a rundown of the conditions in Centurion.

"Next three days are going to be really important in terms of our preparation and getting ourselves right for the first Test match," Dravid can be heard telling the players in the video shared by BCCI.

"Okay, just quality practice and good intensity," he added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> had an intense nets session at SuperSport Park in the build up to the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> Test. 
 
Here's <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> taking you closer to all the action from Centurion. 
 
Watch this special feature <a href="https://t.co/Dm6hVDz71w">https://t.co/Dm6hVDz71w</a> <a href="https://t.co/qjxnBszmDa">pic.twitter.com/qjxnBszmDa</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1472788564366684160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Batting coach Rathour then shared details of India's batting practice session ahead of the first Test and said it was a tough day for the batters as the conditions were overcast and they had to bat on the centre wicket. The likes of skipper Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and others can be seen facing the pacers in the nets amid overcast conditions in Centurion.

"So today was a centre wicket practice session. Unfortunately for us, it was a fresh wicket with overcast conditions, pretty challenging for the batters. So the way they went about it today, extremely happy," said Rathour.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

Star batter Shreyas Iyer also made an appearance in the video and spoke about the conditions in Centurion and revealed that there is grass on the pitch which means the pacers are expected to get better assistance throughout the first Test.

The Indian cricket team's preparations are underway ahead of the start of the three-match Test series against South Africa. Virat Kohli & Co. have been undergoing intense training sessions in Centurion ahead of the series-opener as they aim to get off to a winning start against the hosts.

The Indian cricket team's preparations are underway ahead of the start of the three-match Test series against South Africa. Virat Kohli & Co. have been undergoing intense training sessions in Centurion ahead of the series-opener as they aim to get off to a winning start against the hosts. BCCI on Monday shared a video of the Indian players enjoying a training session at the SuperSport Park where head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the team. The video started with Dravid encouraging the players for an intense and quality practice session before batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey gave a rundown of the conditions in Centurion. "Next three days are going to be really important in terms of our preparation and getting ourselves right for the first Test match," Dravid can be heard telling the players in the video shared by BCCI. "Okay, just quality practice and good intensity," he added. #TeamIndia had an intense nets session at SuperSport Park in the build up to the first #SAvIND Test. Here's @28anand taking you closer to all the action from Centurion. Watch this special feature https://t.co/Dm6hVDz71w pic.twitter.com/qjxnBszmDa — BCCI (@BCCI) December 20, 2021 × Batting coach Rathour then shared details of India's batting practice session ahead of the first Test and said it was a tough day for the batters as the conditions were overcast and they had to bat on the centre wicket. The likes of skipper Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and others can be seen facing the pacers in the nets amid overcast conditions in Centurion. "So today was a centre wicket practice session. Unfortunately for us, it was a fresh wicket with overcast conditions, pretty challenging for the batters. So the way they went about it today, extremely happy," said Rathour. Also Read: THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli Star batter Shreyas Iyer also made an appearance in the video and spoke about the conditions in Centurion and revealed that there is grass on the pitch which means the pacers are expected to get better assistance throughout the first Test.

'Quality practice, good intensity': Rahul Dravid gives pep talk to Indian players ahead of SA Tests - WATCH

Virat Kohli-led India are in South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26 at Centurion. However, things aren't at its very best between Indian Test captain Kohli and Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI.&nbsp;

After BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs captain, succeeding Kohli, fans were speculating if everything was fine between Rohit and Kohli. While Kohli brushed aside all 'rift' rumours with Hitman, he denied having any proper communication with the BCCI before his ODI sacking and also contradicted from Ganguly's remark on him resigning as T20I captain. Ganguly had claimed that he had a word with Kohli and tried to convince him to keep the post in the shortest format, however, Kohli didn't agree.&nbsp;

To this, Kohli bluntly denied having any such talk with Ganguly in a recent presser. Thus, relations between Ganguly-led BCCI and Kohli is far from ideal. However, this wasn't the case in the past.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-like-virat-kohlis-attitude-but-he-fights-a-lot-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-amid-captaincy-row-438107">I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row</a>

Back in 2016, Ganguly had lavished praise on Kohli and termed him as 'one of my favourite captains'.&nbsp;Speaking at a promotional event&nbsp;of a steel company&nbsp;in 2016, Ganguly said, "Virat is one of my favourite captains at the present moment. He is a terrific player. In his short career so far he has done wonders for the country. Someone who when I look at him on the field is going to raise the value of the Indian cricket with his intensity, fighting spirit and hunger to win.”

“You could see it on his face when he walks out to bat, or captain India he wants to be the best. The country needs him at the moment and I think he is great addition to Indian cricket,” added Ganguly," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-sa-team-india-holds-its-first-practice-session-ahead-of-the-boxing-day-test-watch-438036">Ind v SA: Team India holds its first practice session ahead of the Boxing Day Test - WATCH</a>

At present, BCCI is in no hurry to counter Kohli's recent remarks in the presser. On the other hand, India are gearing up for their three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, on December 26. Kohli &amp; Co. will aim to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led India are in South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26 at Centurion. However, things aren't at its very best between Indian Test captain Kohli and Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI.

Virat Kohli-led India are in South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26 at Centurion. However, things aren't at its very best between Indian Test captain Kohli and Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI. After BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs captain, succeeding Kohli, fans were speculating if everything was fine between Rohit and Kohli. While Kohli brushed aside all 'rift' rumours with Hitman, he denied having any proper communication with the BCCI before his ODI sacking and also contradicted from Ganguly's remark on him resigning as T20I captain. Ganguly had claimed that he had a word with Kohli and tried to convince him to keep the post in the shortest format, however, Kohli didn't agree. To this, Kohli bluntly denied having any such talk with Ganguly in a recent presser. Thus, relations between Ganguly-led BCCI and Kohli is far from ideal. However, this wasn't the case in the past. ALSO READ | I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row Back in 2016, Ganguly had lavished praise on Kohli and termed him as 'one of my favourite captains'. Speaking at a promotional event of a steel company in 2016, Ganguly said, "Virat is one of my favourite captains at the present moment. He is a terrific player. In his short career so far he has done wonders for the country. Someone who when I look at him on the field is going to raise the value of the Indian cricket with his intensity, fighting spirit and hunger to win.” “You could see it on his face when he walks out to bat, or captain India he wants to be the best. The country needs him at the moment and I think he is great addition to Indian cricket,” added Ganguly," he added. ALSO READ | Ind v SA: Team India holds its first practice session ahead of the Boxing Day Test - WATCH At present, BCCI is in no hurry to counter Kohli's recent remarks in the presser. On the other hand, India are gearing up for their three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, on December 26. Kohli & Co. will aim to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil.

THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said he likes Indian Test captain Virat Kohli's attitude but is not happy with his nature of picking up fights. Ganguly's comments come amidst raging controversy in Indian cricket over the recent change in ODI captaincy where Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the skipper of the ODI team.&nbsp;

While the decision created a lot of buzz in the cricket fraternity, things&nbsp;took a turn for the worse after Kohli's explosive press conference ahead of India's tour of South Africa where he contradicted Ganguly's comments on the captaincy change. Ganguly had claimed he had personally requested Kohli not to give up India's T20I captaincy earlier this year.

However, Kohli contradicted the statement by clarifying that he was never asked not to give up the T20I captaincy. He has stepped down as the T20I captain of the Indian team in October this year. Kohli also revealed there was no prior communication from the selectors and Ganguly about his sacking as ODI captain and that he was informed about the decision only ninety minutes before it was made official.

Amid the raging controversy, speaking at an event in Gurugram on Saturday (December 18), BCCI president Ganguly was asked which players' attitude does he like the most. Responding to the question, Ganguly took Kohli's name but added that he doesn't like his fighting nature.

“I like Virat Kohli’s attitude but he fights a lot," said the BCCI president.

Ganguly had earlier this week broken his silence after Kohli contradicted his comments in his press conference. The BCCI president refused to get into details and said the board will deal with the matter. "I have got nothing to say. We will deal with it, leave it to the BCCI," he had said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-should-give-an-explanation-former-india-cricketer-on-virat-kohlis-odi-captaincy-row-437970">Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row</a>

As per reports, BCCI officials are not happy with the way the episode has panned out and Kohli's comments during the presser. However, the board will not rush into taking a hasty decision. BCCI is yet to react to the matter and it remains to be seen what Ganguly will have to say about Kohli's comments which clearly were against his version of the story.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said he likes Indian Test captain Virat Kohli's attitude but is not happy with his nature of picking up fights. Ganguly's comments come amidst raging controversy in Indian cricket over the recent change in ODI captaincy where Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the skipper of the ODI team.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said he likes Indian Test captain Virat Kohli's attitude but is not happy with his nature of picking up fights. Ganguly's comments come amidst raging controversy in Indian cricket over the recent change in ODI captaincy where Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the skipper of the ODI team. While the decision created a lot of buzz in the cricket fraternity, things took a turn for the worse after Kohli's explosive press conference ahead of India's tour of South Africa where he contradicted Ganguly's comments on the captaincy change. Ganguly had claimed he had personally requested Kohli not to give up India's T20I captaincy earlier this year. However, Kohli contradicted the statement by clarifying that he was never asked not to give up the T20I captaincy. He has stepped down as the T20I captain of the Indian team in October this year. Kohli also revealed there was no prior communication from the selectors and Ganguly about his sacking as ODI captain and that he was informed about the decision only ninety minutes before it was made official. Amid the raging controversy, speaking at an event in Gurugram on Saturday (December 18), BCCI president Ganguly was asked which players' attitude does he like the most. Responding to the question, Ganguly took Kohli's name but added that he doesn't like his fighting nature. “I like Virat Kohli’s attitude but he fights a lot," said the BCCI president. Ganguly had earlier this week broken his silence after Kohli contradicted his comments in his press conference. The BCCI president refused to get into details and said the board will deal with the matter. "I have got nothing to say. We will deal with it, leave it to the BCCI," he had said. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row As per reports, BCCI officials are not happy with the way the episode has panned out and Kohli's comments during the presser. However, the board will not rush into taking a hasty decision. BCCI is yet to react to the matter and it remains to be seen what Ganguly will have to say about Kohli's comments which clearly were against his version of the story.

I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row

Ever since Virat Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian cricket team and replaced by senior batter Rohit Sharma, there have been reports of a rift between the duo. Reportedly, all is not well between the two superstars of Indian cricket, however, Kohli had recently rubbished the rumours of a rift with Rohit during his press conference ahead of India's tour of South Africa.

Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his full support as far as India's limited-overs teams are concerned. While the ongoing controversy surrounding the change in ODI captaincy followed by Kohli and Sourav Ganguly's contradicting comments have left many fans and former cricketers divided, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has given his take on the chances of Rohit replacing Kohli as the Test skipper of the Indian team in the future.

Butt believes there are very slim chances of BCCI taking a decision to replace Kohli with Rohit as India's Test captain in the future, however, he insisted if the move materialises, it will confirm there is tension between the duo and that they are not getting along well in the dressing room.

“I don’t think it should happen; it won’t be of any benefit. But I can’t say whether it will happen or not. If it happens, it will be clear that there is tension between them and that they are not getting along very well,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Butt said he will be surprised and many eyebrows will be raised if Kohli is sacked from Test captaincy after failing to lead India to a series win in the upcoming three-match rubber against South Africa. The former Pakistan cricketer argued that Kohli's credentials as a Test captain are the best among all Indian captains and it will not be a good move if he is sacked.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-like-virat-kohlis-attitude-but-he-fights-a-lot-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-amid-captaincy-row-438107">I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row</a>

“There can’t be any other reason to snatch the captaincy away from a captain who has won the most number of matches abroad among all other Indian skippers. One series shouldn’t affect his captaincy. I don’t think it will happen and the lesser they happen, the better. And if they happen often, then that’s harmful for cricket,” said Butt.

Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches. He is just three wins away from surpassing Steve Waugh as the third-most successful captain in Test history.

Ever since Virat Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian cricket team and replaced by senior batter Rohit Sharma, there have been reports of a rift between the duo.

Ever since Virat Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian cricket team and replaced by senior batter Rohit Sharma, there have been reports of a rift between the duo. Reportedly, all is not well between the two superstars of Indian cricket, however, Kohli had recently rubbished the rumours of a rift with Rohit during his press conference ahead of India's tour of South Africa. Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his full support as far as India's limited-overs teams are concerned. While the ongoing controversy surrounding the change in ODI captaincy followed by Kohli and Sourav Ganguly's contradicting comments have left many fans and former cricketers divided, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has given his take on the chances of Rohit replacing Kohli as the Test skipper of the Indian team in the future. Butt believes there are very slim chances of BCCI taking a decision to replace Kohli with Rohit as India's Test captain in the future, however, he insisted if the move materialises, it will confirm there is tension between the duo and that they are not getting along well in the dressing room. “I don’t think it should happen; it won’t be of any benefit. But I can’t say whether it will happen or not. If it happens, it will be clear that there is tension between them and that they are not getting along very well,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel. Butt said he will be surprised and many eyebrows will be raised if Kohli is sacked from Test captaincy after failing to lead India to a series win in the upcoming three-match rubber against South Africa. The former Pakistan cricketer argued that Kohli's credentials as a Test captain are the best among all Indian captains and it will not be a good move if he is sacked. Also Read: I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row “There can’t be any other reason to snatch the captaincy away from a captain who has won the most number of matches abroad among all other Indian skippers. One series shouldn’t affect his captaincy. I don’t think it will happen and the lesser they happen, the better. And if they happen often, then that’s harmful for cricket,” said Butt. Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches. He is just three wins away from surpassing Steve Waugh as the third-most successful captain in Test history.

Salman Butt on chances of Rohit replacing Kohli as Test captain: Will be clear, there is tension between them

Virat Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly in an explosive press conference ahead of the Test series against South Africa. Contrary to Ganguly's comments that the BCCI had president personally spoken to Kohli to convince him not to give up T20I captaincy earlier this year, Kohli said he was never asked not to quit. Kohli also revealed he was informed about his sacking as ODI captain only 90 minutes before the decision was made official.

Kohli has been replaced with Rohit Sharma as ODI captain of the Indian team. Rohit had earlier taken over as India's T20I skipper after Kohli's decision to step down from the post. Ganguly had earlier said the selectors only wanted one white-ball captain leading the side which is why Kohli had to be replaced by Rohit.

However, his claim that Kohli was asked to continue as the T20I captain before stepping down, was labelled false by India's Test skipper himself. The contradicting statements from Kohli and Ganguly have led to a massive row over the change in captaincy with BCCI yet to come up with a response. BCCI president Ganguly had said the board will decide the course of action when asked about Kohli's comments.

Former India cricketer Madan Lal has urged the BCCI president to come out in public and give an explanation. The 1983 World Cup winner believes the selectors could have handled the situation in a better way.

“I think this situation should have been handled in a better way because it is not a controversy but a matter of opinion. I don’t know what Sourav had said to Virat so I don’t want to comment on that," Lal told ANI.

“But I think that Sourav being the president should come out and give an explanation and that will be the end of the entire issue. We need to be focused on the South Africa tour right now as it is an important game for us,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-selectors-put-together-have-not-played-half-the-number-of-matches-virat-kohli-has-ex-india-all-rounder-437879">All selectors put together have not played half the number of matches Virat Kohli has: Ex-India all-rounder</a>

The former all-rounder also agreed with Sunil Gavaskar's views on the matter. Gavaskar had said Kohli should sit down with the selectors and the management to sort out the issues. However, Lal insisted the selectors should have communicated with Kohli in a proper way.

“Gavaskar is correct with his point. Virat should clear all his issues with the management. This is not a big matter. I would say that the selectors should have handled the situation better. It is the duty of selectors to look after and stop these controversies. I am not sure if the selectors spoke to Virat before taking the decision,” concluded Lal.

Virat Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly in an explosive press conference ahead of the Test series against South Africa. Contrary to Ganguly's comments that the BCCI had president personally spoken to Kohli to convince him not to give up T20I captaincy earlier this year, Kohli said he was never asked not to quit.

Virat Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly in an explosive press conference ahead of the Test series against South Africa. Contrary to Ganguly's comments that the BCCI had president personally spoken to Kohli to convince him not to give up T20I captaincy earlier this year, Kohli said he was never asked not to quit. Kohli also revealed he was informed about his sacking as ODI captain only 90 minutes before the decision was made official. Kohli has been replaced with Rohit Sharma as ODI captain of the Indian team. Rohit had earlier taken over as India's T20I skipper after Kohli's decision to step down from the post. Ganguly had earlier said the selectors only wanted one white-ball captain leading the side which is why Kohli had to be replaced by Rohit. However, his claim that Kohli was asked to continue as the T20I captain before stepping down, was labelled false by India's Test skipper himself. The contradicting statements from Kohli and Ganguly have led to a massive row over the change in captaincy with BCCI yet to come up with a response. BCCI president Ganguly had said the board will decide the course of action when asked about Kohli's comments. Former India cricketer Madan Lal has urged the BCCI president to come out in public and give an explanation. The 1983 World Cup winner believes the selectors could have handled the situation in a better way. “I think this situation should have been handled in a better way because it is not a controversy but a matter of opinion. I don’t know what Sourav had said to Virat so I don’t want to comment on that," Lal told ANI. “But I think that Sourav being the president should come out and give an explanation and that will be the end of the entire issue. We need to be focused on the South Africa tour right now as it is an important game for us,” he added. Also Read: All selectors put together have not played half the number of matches Virat Kohli has: Ex-India all-rounder The former all-rounder also agreed with Sunil Gavaskar's views on the matter. Gavaskar had said Kohli should sit down with the selectors and the management to sort out the issues. However, Lal insisted the selectors should have communicated with Kohli in a proper way. “Gavaskar is correct with his point. Virat should clear all his issues with the management. This is not a big matter. I would say that the selectors should have handled the situation better. It is the duty of selectors to look after and stop these controversies. I am not sure if the selectors spoke to Virat before taking the decision,” concluded Lal.

Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row

Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the most-admired sportsperson in the world ahead of his arch-rival Lionel Messi. Both Ronaldo and Messi enjoy a staggering fan following across the globe and are unarguably two of the most popular and successful athletes of the current generation. The duo has dominated world football for over a decade now and has enjoyed a great rivalry between them.

Ronaldo pipped Messi to take the 4th spot on the list of most admired male personalities in the world. The Argentine legend finished at the seventh spot. Former United States President Barack Obama has been named the most admired male in the world followed by Bill Gates and Xi Jinping.

The list has been prepared after a survey conducted by YouGov, a British market research and data analytics firm. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is placed eighth on the list of most-admired men in the world at present.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli only behind Messi, Ronaldo

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar is the third-most admired sportsperson in the world behind only two of football's greatest icons - Messi and Ronaldo. Tendulkar is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time and is often credited to have made a national fall in love with the game with his heroics on the field.

Tendulkar continues to hold the record for most runs in international cricket which is unlikely to be broken anytime soon and is also the only batter in the world with hundred international centuries to his name. India's current Test captain Virat Kohli is the 4th most-admired sportsperson in the world.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-selectors-put-together-have-not-played-half-the-number-of-matches-virat-kohli-has-ex-india-all-rounder-437879">All selectors put together have not played half the number of matches Virat Kohli has: Ex-India all-rounder</a>

Kohli is counted among the modern-day greats and is one of the most popular cricketers in the world. He has been a consistent performer for the Indian team across formats and has already achieved numerous milestones and records in what has been an illustrious career so far. Kohli is also the most followed cricketer on social media.

Here is a look at the top 20 most admired male personalities in the world:

1. Barack Obama

2. Bill Gates

3. Xi Jinping

4. Cristiano Ronaldo

5. Jackie Chan

6. Elon Musk

7. Lionel Messi

8. Narendra Modi

9. Vladimir Putin

10. Jack Ma

11. Warren Buffet

12. Sachin Tendulkar

13. Donald Trump

14. Shahrukh Khan

15. Amitabh Bachchan

16. Pope Francis

17. Imran Khan

18. Virat Kohli

19. Andy Lau

20. Joe Biden

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the most-admired sportsperson in the world ahead of his arch-rival Lionel Messi. Both Ronaldo and Messi enjoy a staggering fan following across the globe and are unarguably two of the most popular and successful athletes of the current generation.

Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the most-admired sportsperson in the world ahead of his arch-rival Lionel Messi. Both Ronaldo and Messi enjoy a staggering fan following across the globe and are unarguably two of the most popular and successful athletes of the current generation. The duo has dominated world football for over a decade now and has enjoyed a great rivalry between them. Ronaldo pipped Messi to take the 4th spot on the list of most admired male personalities in the world. The Argentine legend finished at the seventh spot. Former United States President Barack Obama has been named the most admired male in the world followed by Bill Gates and Xi Jinping. The list has been prepared after a survey conducted by YouGov, a British market research and data analytics firm. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is placed eighth on the list of most-admired men in the world at present. Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli only behind Messi, Ronaldo Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar is the third-most admired sportsperson in the world behind only two of football's greatest icons - Messi and Ronaldo. Tendulkar is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time and is often credited to have made a national fall in love with the game with his heroics on the field. Tendulkar continues to hold the record for most runs in international cricket which is unlikely to be broken anytime soon and is also the only batter in the world with hundred international centuries to his name. India's current Test captain Virat Kohli is the 4th most-admired sportsperson in the world. Also Read: All selectors put together have not played half the number of matches Virat Kohli has: Ex-India all-rounder Kohli is counted among the modern-day greats and is one of the most popular cricketers in the world. He has been a consistent performer for the Indian team across formats and has already achieved numerous milestones and records in what has been an illustrious career so far. Kohli is also the most followed cricketer on social media. Here is a look at the top 20 most admired male personalities in the world: 1. Barack Obama 2. Bill Gates 3. Xi Jinping 4. Cristiano Ronaldo 5. Jackie Chan 6. Elon Musk 7. Lionel Messi 8. Narendra Modi 9. Vladimir Putin 10. Jack Ma 11. Warren Buffet 12. Sachin Tendulkar 13. Donald Trump 14. Shahrukh Khan 15. Amitabh Bachchan 16. Pope Francis 17. Imran Khan 18. Virat Kohli 19. Andy Lau 20. Joe Biden

Cristiano Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi, Sachin Tendulkar to be named most-admired sportsperson in the world

Virat Kohli's explosive press conference ahead of India's upcoming Test series against South Africa has put the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a spot of bother amid the raging controversy over the change in team India's ODI captaincy. Kohli was replaced with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian team earlier this month.

While the decision didn't come as a surprise to many, the manner in which it was announced left many disappointed. During his bold presser, Kohli contradicted the claims of BCCI president Sourav Ganguly that he was asked not to give up T20I captaincy and also revealed he was informed about his sacking as ODI captain just 90 minutes before it was made official.

Kohli stated that there was no prior discussion between him and the selectors or Ganguly, contradicting the BCCI president's comments. Reacting to the controversy, former India all-rounder and 1983 World Cup-winner Kirti Azad has taken a dig at the current national selection panel led by Chetan Sharma.

"If this was to be decided by the selectors, they should have gone up to the president. Generally, what happens is that when a team is selected – when I was also a national selector – we would select the team and go to the president of the board. He would see, okay it, sign it and then it would be announced. But it is always the custom that a team after being selected goes to have a look," Azad was quoted as saying by News18.

The former all-rounder said the current member of the national selection panel, who have decided to remove Kohli as the ODI captain of the Indian team, have not played half the number of international matches as the Indian Test skipper combined. Azad said the selectors should have informed Ganguly about their decision and an informal conversation with Kohli could have been the best way to deal with the situation.

"So obviously, if you are changing the captain for any format, you write and inform the president. Virat is not upset, but I feel he is hurt for the way he has been informed. So once it went to Sourav, he could have also unofficially spoken about it. You can understand, I don't want to say this. All the selectors are really great guys, but if you put their total number of matches, it won't be even half of what Virat has played," said the former India all-rounder.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-not-happy-with-virat-kohlis-comments-but-unlikely-to-take-hasty-step-ahead-of-south-africa-series-437626">BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series</a>

The BCCI has not yet responded to the contradicting claims by Kohli and Ganguly and has decided to not take any hasty step considering the team's morale ahead of the South Africa Test series. The three-match Test series between India and South Africa is all set to get underway from December 26.

Virat Kohli's explosive press conference ahead of India's upcoming Test series against South Africa has put the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a spot of bother amid the raging controversy over the change in team India's ODI captaincy.

Virat Kohli's explosive press conference ahead of India's upcoming Test series against South Africa has put the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a spot of bother amid the raging controversy over the change in team India's ODI captaincy. Kohli was replaced with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian team earlier this month. While the decision didn't come as a surprise to many, the manner in which it was announced left many disappointed. During his bold presser, Kohli contradicted the claims of BCCI president Sourav Ganguly that he was asked not to give up T20I captaincy and also revealed he was informed about his sacking as ODI captain just 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli stated that there was no prior discussion between him and the selectors or Ganguly, contradicting the BCCI president's comments. Reacting to the controversy, former India all-rounder and 1983 World Cup-winner Kirti Azad has taken a dig at the current national selection panel led by Chetan Sharma. "If this was to be decided by the selectors, they should have gone up to the president. Generally, what happens is that when a team is selected – when I was also a national selector – we would select the team and go to the president of the board. He would see, okay it, sign it and then it would be announced. But it is always the custom that a team after being selected goes to have a look," Azad was quoted as saying by News18. The former all-rounder said the current member of the national selection panel, who have decided to remove Kohli as the ODI captain of the Indian team, have not played half the number of international matches as the Indian Test skipper combined. Azad said the selectors should have informed Ganguly about their decision and an informal conversation with Kohli could have been the best way to deal with the situation. "So obviously, if you are changing the captain for any format, you write and inform the president. Virat is not upset, but I feel he is hurt for the way he has been informed. So once it went to Sourav, he could have also unofficially spoken about it. You can understand, I don't want to say this. All the selectors are really great guys, but if you put their total number of matches, it won't be even half of what Virat has played," said the former India all-rounder. Also Read: BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series The BCCI has not yet responded to the contradicting claims by Kohli and Ganguly and has decided to not take any hasty step considering the team's morale ahead of the South Africa Test series. The three-match Test series between India and South Africa is all set to get underway from December 26.

All selectors put together have not played half the number of matches Virat Kohli has: Ex-India all-rounder

Virat Kohli-led Team India's Test side has arrived in South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26.&nbsp;

Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia (twice but once under Ajinkya Rahane), have an unassaiable lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom (early this year) and will now aim to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil. For that to happen, the 33-year-old Kohli will have to be at his very best with the bat.

For the unversed, Kohli hasn't scored a century in international cricket since late 2019 and his recent form in whites isn't upto the mark. Thus, he will have to lead from the front with the willow in hand. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels Kohli can return to his usual best and score centuries after centuries, like he used to, with no burden of limited-overs captaincy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-absolutely-ridiculous-when-virat-kohli-rubbished-rumours-of-rift-between-him-and-rohit-sharma-437686">It's absolutely ridiculous! When Virat Kohli rubbished rumours of rift between him and Rohit Sharma</a>

"We may see the Virat from two years ago, slamming centuries after centuries," the former India captain said on Sports Tak.

Gavaskar also opined that the white-ball formats' captaincy will help Rohit Sharma, who has often excelled under pressure and with added responsibilities. In this regard, he said, "We have also seen that when Rohit Sharma was made captain of Mumbai Indians, he took those scored of 20, 30 and 40 runs and converted them into big scores. When you are captain, you play with a lot more responsibilities. Your shot selection gets better. You know you have to set an example and MI reaped the benefits by winning the title five times. It is possible to see Rohit score even more runs once he is the white-ball captain."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-test-will-be-in-sa-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-hopeful-of-indian-batter-delivering-the-goods-overseas-437714">Real test will be in SA: BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly 'hopeful' of Indian batter delivering the goods overseas</a>

At present, India have arrived in South Africa and will start training after undergoing mandatory Covid protocols. The first Test will commence at Centurion on the Boxing Day.&nbsp;

Rohit won't be a part of the Tests but is expected to be available for the ODIs.

Virat Kohli-led Team India's Test side has arrived in South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26. Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia (twice but once under Ajinkya Rahane), have an unassaiable lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom (early this year) and will now aim to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil.

Virat Kohli-led Team India's Test side has arrived in South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26. Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia (twice but once under Ajinkya Rahane), have an unassaiable lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom (early this year) and will now aim to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil. For that to happen, the 33-year-old Kohli will have to be at his very best with the bat. For the unversed, Kohli hasn't scored a century in international cricket since late 2019 and his recent form in whites isn't upto the mark. Thus, he will have to lead from the front with the willow in hand. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels Kohli can return to his usual best and score centuries after centuries, like he used to, with no burden of limited-overs captaincy. ALSO READ | It's absolutely ridiculous! When Virat Kohli rubbished rumours of rift between him and Rohit Sharma "We may see the Virat from two years ago, slamming centuries after centuries," the former India captain said on Sports Tak. Gavaskar also opined that the white-ball formats' captaincy will help Rohit Sharma, who has often excelled under pressure and with added responsibilities. In this regard, he said, "We have also seen that when Rohit Sharma was made captain of Mumbai Indians, he took those scored of 20, 30 and 40 runs and converted them into big scores. When you are captain, you play with a lot more responsibilities. Your shot selection gets better. You know you have to set an example and MI reaped the benefits by winning the title five times. It is possible to see Rohit score even more runs once he is the white-ball captain." ALSO READ | Real test will be in SA: BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly 'hopeful' of Indian batter delivering the goods overseas At present, India have arrived in South Africa and will start training after undergoing mandatory Covid protocols. The first Test will commence at Centurion on the Boxing Day. Rohit won't be a part of the Tests but is expected to be available for the ODIs.

We may see Virat Kohli from two years ago slamming centuries after centuries, predicts Sunil Gavaskar

Shardul Thakur's stocks have risen in the last couple of years. With him picking up key wickets for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the last few seasons, he became a part of India's white-ball formats before the Australia Tests, during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21 edition, displayed his all-round skills to the fore.

In India's five-match Test series versus England in the United Kingdom, Shardul once again made heads turn with his bowling and batting, especially during the fourth Test at The Oval, London with twin fifties and three key wickets. Hence, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the CSK fast-bowling all-rounder has to play all the three upcoming Tests versus South Africa, starting from December 26.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-team-india-reaches-johannesburg-for-south-africa-tests-437444">Virat Kohli led-Team India reaches Johannesburg for South Africa Tests</a>

Highlighting his importance, Bangar told Star Sports,&nbsp;"There is definitely a place for Shardul Thakur because in all the major victories in the last season that have come for India, he has contributed and in overseas conditions, you require a batsman who can bowl a bit."

"He fits in that category because he can contribute with the bat and with the ball, he can contribute with a couple of wickets, as he displayed in the England series as well,” added Bangar.

Bangar further asserted that Shardul will fit in Kohli’s template of fielding four spinners and a spinner.&nbsp;"I would think the reasoning behind and the way the captain wants to have a say because ultimately it’s the captain’s team. Yes, Rahul Dravid can throw up some contrasting views because that is what a coach’s job is, probably put up his case and then see what the captain thinks.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-test-will-be-in-sa-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-hopeful-of-indian-batter-delivering-the-goods-overseas-437714">Real test will be in SA: BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly 'hopeful' of Indian batter delivering the goods overseas</a>

“But prior to the Oval Test match, you already saw what Virat Kohli’s thought process suggests and from a distance, it seems that he is resigned to the fact that he wants to play with four seamers and one spinner in overseas conditions,” Bangar further emphasised.

It will be interesting to see what combination Team India goes ahead with in the forthcoming SA Tests. The all-rounders for the upcoming series are R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Shardul along with Hanuma Vihari (including his part-time off-spin). There is Deepak Chahar in the standby list as well. Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will be missed, both of whom are out of action due to injury concerns.

India's Test squad for SA series:

Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Priyank Panchal, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj

Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Shardul Thakur's stocks have risen in the last couple of years. With him picking up key wickets for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the last few seasons, he became a part of India's white-ball formats before the Australia Tests, during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21 edition, displayed his all-round skills to the fore.

Shardul Thakur's stocks have risen in the last couple of years. With him picking up key wickets for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the last few seasons, he became a part of India's white-ball formats before the Australia Tests, during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21 edition, displayed his all-round skills to the fore. In India's five-match Test series versus England in the United Kingdom, Shardul once again made heads turn with his bowling and batting, especially during the fourth Test at The Oval, London with twin fifties and three key wickets. Hence, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the CSK fast-bowling all-rounder has to play all the three upcoming Tests versus South Africa, starting from December 26. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli led-Team India reaches Johannesburg for South Africa Tests Highlighting his importance, Bangar told Star Sports, "There is definitely a place for Shardul Thakur because in all the major victories in the last season that have come for India, he has contributed and in overseas conditions, you require a batsman who can bowl a bit." "He fits in that category because he can contribute with the bat and with the ball, he can contribute with a couple of wickets, as he displayed in the England series as well,” added Bangar. Bangar further asserted that Shardul will fit in Kohli’s template of fielding four spinners and a spinner. "I would think the reasoning behind and the way the captain wants to have a say because ultimately it’s the captain’s team. Yes, Rahul Dravid can throw up some contrasting views because that is what a coach’s job is, probably put up his case and then see what the captain thinks. ALSO READ | Real test will be in SA: BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly 'hopeful' of Indian batter delivering the goods overseas “But prior to the Oval Test match, you already saw what Virat Kohli’s thought process suggests and from a distance, it seems that he is resigned to the fact that he wants to play with four seamers and one spinner in overseas conditions,” Bangar further emphasised. It will be interesting to see what combination Team India goes ahead with in the forthcoming SA Tests. The all-rounders for the upcoming series are R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Shardul along with Hanuma Vihari (including his part-time off-spin). There is Deepak Chahar in the standby list as well. Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will be missed, both of whom are out of action due to injury concerns. India's Test squad for SA series: Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Priyank Panchal, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

'You require a batsman...': Sanjay Bangar names player who must be part of India's XI for SA Tests

India's Test captain Virat Kohli rubbished the rumours that all is not well between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit replaced Kohli as captain of the ODI side last week ahead of the team's upcoming tour of South Africa. He had earlier taken over T20I captaincy from Kohli when the latter had decided to step down as captain from the shortest format.

While stepping down as T20I captain, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in ODIs and Tests, however, the BCCI decided to cut short his captaincy stint in limited-overs cricket leading to a massive controversy. The controversy has only gotten worse in the last couple of days after Kohli delivered an explosive press conference on Wednesday.

Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims in the presser, stating that he was never asked to not give up T20I captaincy and also revealed he was not communicated about the decision in advance by the BCCI. Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official.

Kohli also rubbished the rumours of him skipping the upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons and once again spoke about his equation with Rohit Sharma. Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his 'absolute support' going forward and that there is nothing wrong between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rahul-dravid-sourav-ganguly-reveals-another-batting-legend-wanted-india-head-coach-job-437659">Not Rahul Dravid! Sourav Ganguly reveals another batting legend wanted India head coach job</a>

It was not the first time, Kohli quashed the rumours of his bad equation with Rohit. Reports of a rift between the duo had gone viral post the conclusion of the 2019 ODI World Cup where India bowed out after losing the semi-final against New Zealand. Kohli had then refuted the baseless allegations and slammed those 'feeding off lies'.

"In my opinion, it's baffling. It's absolutely ridiculous to read this kind of stuff, that comes out there. I have been to public events where we have been praised and here we are feeding off lies, overlooking facts, turning a blind eye to all good things that happened and creating fantasies and scenarios in our head. We want to accept that this is the truth," Kohli had said in a presser after the 2019 ODI World Cup to end the rumours of a rift between him and Rohit.

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-not-happy-with-virat-kohlis-comments-but-unlikely-to-take-hasty-step-ahead-of-south-africa-series-437626">BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series</a>

Kohli will not be leading India in limited-overs cricket but remains the captain in Tests and will be captaining the visitors in the upcoming three-match Test series against the hosts starting from December 26. BCCI is yet to respond to Kohli's comments contradicting Ganguly's statements.

While Ganguly had said in an interview that he personally requested Kohli not to step down as T20I captain, Kohli maintained he was never asked by anybody to not resign from the post.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli rubbished the rumours that all is not well between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit replaced Kohli as captain of the ODI side last week ahead of the team's upcoming tour of South Africa.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli rubbished the rumours that all is not well between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit replaced Kohli as captain of the ODI side last week ahead of the team's upcoming tour of South Africa. He had earlier taken over T20I captaincy from Kohli when the latter had decided to step down as captain from the shortest format. While stepping down as T20I captain, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in ODIs and Tests, however, the BCCI decided to cut short his captaincy stint in limited-overs cricket leading to a massive controversy. The controversy has only gotten worse in the last couple of days after Kohli delivered an explosive press conference on Wednesday. Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims in the presser, stating that he was never asked to not give up T20I captaincy and also revealed he was not communicated about the decision in advance by the BCCI. Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli also rubbished the rumours of him skipping the upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons and once again spoke about his equation with Rohit Sharma. Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his 'absolute support' going forward and that there is nothing wrong between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball skipper. Also Read: Not Rahul Dravid! Sourav Ganguly reveals another batting legend wanted India head coach job It was not the first time, Kohli quashed the rumours of his bad equation with Rohit. Reports of a rift between the duo had gone viral post the conclusion of the 2019 ODI World Cup where India bowed out after losing the semi-final against New Zealand. Kohli had then refuted the baseless allegations and slammed those 'feeding off lies'. "In my opinion, it's baffling. It's absolutely ridiculous to read this kind of stuff, that comes out there. I have been to public events where we have been praised and here we are feeding off lies, overlooking facts, turning a blind eye to all good things that happened and creating fantasies and scenarios in our head. We want to accept that this is the truth," Kohli had said in a presser after the 2019 ODI World Cup to end the rumours of a rift between him and Rohit. Also Read: BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series Kohli will not be leading India in limited-overs cricket but remains the captain in Tests and will be captaining the visitors in the upcoming three-match Test series against the hosts starting from December 26. BCCI is yet to respond to Kohli's comments contradicting Ganguly's statements. While Ganguly had said in an interview that he personally requested Kohli not to step down as T20I captain, Kohli maintained he was never asked by anybody to not resign from the post.

It's absolutely ridiculous! When Virat Kohli rubbished rumours of rift between him and Rohit Sharma

The Board of Control for Cricket in Inda (BCCI) is not hurrying to make a statement or take a hasty decision amid the controversy surrounding Virat Kohli's removal as team India's ODI captain. Kohli was in the centre of an explosive press conference on Wednesday ahead of India's tour of South Africa where he came out clear on the rumours floating around regarding his sacking and also contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims.

Kohli during the press conference said he was never asked to not give up the T20I captaincy of the Indian team, contrary to Ganguly's claim that the BCCI president had personally spoken to Kohli to not step down. The Indian Test skipper also informed the journalists present in the presser that he was made aware of the change in ODI captaincy only 90 minutes before it was made official.

As per a report in PTI, no one in BCCI is happy with Kohli's comments during the press conference where he refuted the board's president's claims. While the cricket fraternity awaits BCCI's response in the matter, the board has decided not to take any hasty step which can impact the Indian team's morale ahead of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa.

"No statements, no press conference. We will deal with it, leave it to (the) BCCI," Ganguly had told reporters on Thursday when asked about Kohli's comments contradicting his claims.

As per PTI, the board president and BCCI secretary Jay Shah were on a video call with the BCCI office-bearers on Wednesday where Kohli's comments were discussed in detail and it was decided that the BCCI will not release any official statement or conduct a press conference in the matter.

"Expert opinion was taken on how to deal with the sensitive matter as it also involves the respect of a president's office. The BCCI knows that a Test series is round the corner and any hasty decision or statement from them could affect the morale of the team," a senior BCCI source told PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/safer-option-wouldve-been-to-side-with-ganguly-tabraiz-shamsi-lauds-virat-kohli-amid-odi-captaincy-row-437584">'Safer option would've been to side with Ganguly': Tabraiz Shamsi lauds&nbsp;Kohli amid ODI captaincy row</a>

Many were expecting the BCCI to conduct a press conference with the head of the selection panel - Chetan Sharma in it to address the raging controversy after Kohli and Ganguly's contradicting statements. However, the board is unlikely to rush into action.

Meanwhile, Kohli, who rubbished the reports of him taking a break and skipping the ODI series against South Africa, reassured that he will extend his full support to new limited-overs captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid in taking Indian cricket forward.

Kohli also admitted that he understood why he was sacked as ODI captain as India failed to win an ICC trophy under his leadership.

(With agency inputs)

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The Board of Control for Cricket in Inda (BCCI) is not hurrying to make a statement or take a hasty decision amid the controversy surrounding Virat Kohli's removal as team India's ODI captain.

The Board of Control for Cricket in Inda (BCCI) is not hurrying to make a statement or take a hasty decision amid the controversy surrounding Virat Kohli's removal as team India's ODI captain. Kohli was in the centre of an explosive press conference on Wednesday ahead of India's tour of South Africa where he came out clear on the rumours floating around regarding his sacking and also contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims. Kohli during the press conference said he was never asked to not give up the T20I captaincy of the Indian team, contrary to Ganguly's claim that the BCCI president had personally spoken to Kohli to not step down. The Indian Test skipper also informed the journalists present in the presser that he was made aware of the change in ODI captaincy only 90 minutes before it was made official. As per a report in PTI, no one in BCCI is happy with Kohli's comments during the press conference where he refuted the board's president's claims. While the cricket fraternity awaits BCCI's response in the matter, the board has decided not to take any hasty step which can impact the Indian team's morale ahead of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa. "No statements, no press conference. We will deal with it, leave it to (the) BCCI," Ganguly had told reporters on Thursday when asked about Kohli's comments contradicting his claims. As per PTI, the board president and BCCI secretary Jay Shah were on a video call with the BCCI office-bearers on Wednesday where Kohli's comments were discussed in detail and it was decided that the BCCI will not release any official statement or conduct a press conference in the matter. "Expert opinion was taken on how to deal with the sensitive matter as it also involves the respect of a president's office. The BCCI knows that a Test series is round the corner and any hasty decision or statement from them could affect the morale of the team," a senior BCCI source told PTI. Also Read: 'Safer option would've been to side with Ganguly': Tabraiz Shamsi lauds Kohli amid ODI captaincy row Many were expecting the BCCI to conduct a press conference with the head of the selection panel - Chetan Sharma in it to address the raging controversy after Kohli and Ganguly's contradicting statements. However, the board is unlikely to rush into action. Meanwhile, Kohli, who rubbished the reports of him taking a break and skipping the ODI series against South Africa, reassured that he will extend his full support to new limited-overs captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid in taking Indian cricket forward. Kohli also admitted that he understood why he was sacked as ODI captain as India failed to win an ICC trophy under his leadership. (With agency inputs) ×

BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series

Indian cricket has been embroiled in controversy ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the change in captaincy in the ODIs. Virat Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the side without any explanation from the selectors before BCCI president Sourav Ganguly clarified that the decision was taken as selectors didn't want two white-ball captains for the Indian team.

Ganguly also said he had personally requested Kohli to not give up T20I captaincy and continue leading the team. Kohli had announced his decision to step down as T20I captain in October this year and relinquished his role post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021. However, in an explosive press conference ahead of the South Africa tour, Kohli broke his silence on the matter.

He refuted Ganguly's claims that he was requested not to step down as the T20I captain of the side and also said there was no prior communication from BCCI before the decision to remove him as ODI captain was taken. Kohli said he was informed only 1.5 hours before the decision was announced.

"Whatever was said about the communication that happened about the decision that was made was inaccurate. I was contacted one-and-a-half hours before the selection meeting on December 8 for the Test series and there was no prior communication to me at all since I announced my decision on T20I captaincy," Kohli had said.

"When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’," added Kohli.&nbsp;

South Africa spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has reacted to the matter as he lauded the Indian Test captain for giving out his version of the story without fearing anyone. Kohli's version of the story is quite different from that of BCCI president Ganguly and many have praised the Test skipper for not taking the safe route.

Shamsi quoted a tweet from fan which read - "The safer option for Virat would’ve been to side with Ganguly’s version of the story. Clearly, Virat isn’t that kind of a person, on and off the field."&nbsp;

"This is why he is as good as he is”, Shami wrote while quoting the tweet as he lauded Kohli.

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This is why he is as good as he is <a href="https://t.co/75E0ZBUPZg">https://t.co/75E0ZBUPZg</a>
— Tabraiz Shamsi (@shamsi90) <a href="https://twitter.com/shamsi90/status/1471357581931294721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wasnt-told-to-virat-kohli-contradicts-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-on-resigning-as-indias-t20i-captain-437148">Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain</a>

Reacting to Kohli's statement which clearly contradicted his version of the ODI captaincy saga in Indian cricket, BCCI president Ganguly on Thursday (December 16) refused to make any comments on the matter and said BCCI will deal with the situation in its own way.

Kohli, meanwhile, will be leading the Indian team in the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa which gets underway from December 26.

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Indian cricket has been embroiled in controversy ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the change in captaincy in the ODIs. Virat Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the side without any explanation from the selectors before BCCI president Sourav Ganguly clarified that the decision was taken as selectors didn't want two white-ball captains for the Indian team.

Indian cricket has been embroiled in controversy ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the change in captaincy in the ODIs. Virat Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the side without any explanation from the selectors before BCCI president Sourav Ganguly clarified that the decision was taken as selectors didn't want two white-ball captains for the Indian team. Ganguly also said he had personally requested Kohli to not give up T20I captaincy and continue leading the team. Kohli had announced his decision to step down as T20I captain in October this year and relinquished his role post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021. However, in an explosive press conference ahead of the South Africa tour, Kohli broke his silence on the matter. He refuted Ganguly's claims that he was requested not to step down as the T20I captain of the side and also said there was no prior communication from BCCI before the decision to remove him as ODI captain was taken. Kohli said he was informed only 1.5 hours before the decision was announced. "Whatever was said about the communication that happened about the decision that was made was inaccurate. I was contacted one-and-a-half hours before the selection meeting on December 8 for the Test series and there was no prior communication to me at all since I announced my decision on T20I captaincy," Kohli had said. "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’," added Kohli. South Africa spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has reacted to the matter as he lauded the Indian Test captain for giving out his version of the story without fearing anyone. Kohli's version of the story is quite different from that of BCCI president Ganguly and many have praised the Test skipper for not taking the safe route. Shamsi quoted a tweet from fan which read - "The safer option for Virat would’ve been to side with Ganguly’s version of the story. Clearly, Virat isn’t that kind of a person, on and off the field." "This is why he is as good as he is”, Shami wrote while quoting the tweet as he lauded Kohli. This is why he is as good as he is https://t.co/75E0ZBUPZg — Tabraiz Shamsi (@shamsi90) December 16, 2021 × Also Read: Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain Reacting to Kohli's statement which clearly contradicted his version of the ODI captaincy saga in Indian cricket, BCCI president Ganguly on Thursday (December 16) refused to make any comments on the matter and said BCCI will deal with the situation in its own way. Kohli, meanwhile, will be leading the Indian team in the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa which gets underway from December 26. ×

'Safer option would've been to side with Ganguly': Tabraiz Shamsi lauds Virat Kohli amid ODI captaincy row

Virat Kohli has broken his silence after being sacked as India's ODI captain. What Kohli said, reveals a culture of unprofessionalism and communication gaps in the BCCI. Could the cricket board have handled the issue better? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Virat Kohli at odds with the Indian Cricket Board?

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain.

On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side's departure for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each. Hence, Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit but dropped a bomb by saying that he was never told to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper and was also not informed of his sacking as the ODI captain prior to the official announcement.

"The chief selector discussed the Test team to which we both agreed. Before ending the call, I was told that the five selectors have decided that I will not be the ODI captain to which I replied ‘okay fine'," Kohli claimed.

He further asserted, "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-will-deal-with-it-appropriately-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-remark-on-odi-captaincy-row-437386">BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row</a>

Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has now urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to come out in the open and respond so that the controversy can come to an end. “Ganguly needs to answer this for the betterment of Indian cricket. He is the President of the BCCI and Kohli contradicting him in public is not a small thing. On one hand, Ganguly said he had requested Kohli not to step down from T20 captaincy. But Kohli has now come out and claimed that no one from BCCI ever spoke to him about it. These are two completely contrasting statements. This is unrest," Butt said&nbsp;on his YouTube channel.

He added, "It is not a question of captaincy. Debate is not about Rohit taking over. He is a good captain and has proved himself at the international and IPL level. The procedure to pass on the responsibility from one great to another was not smooth. Unnecessary controversy has been created and there will be trust deficit between Kohli and Ganguly going ahead.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/please-pay-attention-to-sa-tour-kapil-dev-schools-virat-kohli-following-his-explosive-press-conference-437409">Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference</a>

After Kohli contradicted his claims, Ganguly did respond and recently told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately."

The Indian cricket loyalists will hope for the ODI captaincy row to end as soon as possible as it can reflect India's performance in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, starting from December 26. The national side has left for the African nation on Thursday (December 16).

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain.

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain. On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side's departure for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each. Hence, Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit but dropped a bomb by saying that he was never told to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper and was also not informed of his sacking as the ODI captain prior to the official announcement. "The chief selector discussed the Test team to which we both agreed. Before ending the call, I was told that the five selectors have decided that I will not be the ODI captain to which I replied ‘okay fine'," Kohli claimed. He further asserted, "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’." ALSO READ | BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has now urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to come out in the open and respond so that the controversy can come to an end. “Ganguly needs to answer this for the betterment of Indian cricket. He is the President of the BCCI and Kohli contradicting him in public is not a small thing. On one hand, Ganguly said he had requested Kohli not to step down from T20 captaincy. But Kohli has now come out and claimed that no one from BCCI ever spoke to him about it. These are two completely contrasting statements. This is unrest," Butt said on his YouTube channel. He added, "It is not a question of captaincy. Debate is not about Rohit taking over. He is a good captain and has proved himself at the international and IPL level. The procedure to pass on the responsibility from one great to another was not smooth. Unnecessary controversy has been created and there will be trust deficit between Kohli and Ganguly going ahead.” ALSO READ | Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference After Kohli contradicted his claims, Ganguly did respond and recently told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately." The Indian cricket loyalists will hope for the ODI captaincy row to end as soon as possible as it can reflect India's performance in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, starting from December 26. The national side has left for the African nation on Thursday (December 16).

'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. In the presser, the 33-year-old tried to clear the air on many issues which have been prevalent in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch.

During the presser, Kohli was asked to share if he had any communication with the BCCI prior to his sacking as the ODI captain and if the board members had asked him to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain. He, thus, denied having any proper communication in advance before his removal as the ODI skipper and even rubbished claims that he was asked to reconsider his decision of resigning as the captain in the shortest format. Thus, there have been many reactions post Kohli's explosive press conference.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain and World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to Kohli's statements.

Talking to&nbsp;ABP&nbsp;News, Kapil said, "It is not good to point fingers on anybody at this point in time. The South Africa tour is coming and please pay attention to the tour. I would say board president is board president but yes, the Indian cricket team captain is also a big thing. But talking badly about each other in public, I don't think it is a good thing, whether it is Sourav or Kohli."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-will-deal-with-it-appropriately-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-remark-on-odi-captaincy-row-437386">BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row</a>

He added, "You have to control the situation and it would be better to think about the country first. Whatever is wrong will be known soon but speaking publicly about the topic, I think, is wrong at this time. I would not want to see any controversy ahead of an important tour."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-virat-kohli-promises-absolute-support-to-rohit-sharma-rahul-dravid-437351">'This is.....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Virat Kohli promises 'absolute support' to Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid</a>

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has also reacted to Kohli's claims, which are contrary to what was said by the board president. Hence, Ganguly told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately."

Amid all the mess, India have left for South Africa where the national side is scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour will commence with the first Test on December 26 in Centurion.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. In the presser, the 33-year-old tried to clear the air on many issues which have been prevalent in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. In the presser, the 33-year-old tried to clear the air on many issues which have been prevalent in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. During the presser, Kohli was asked to share if he had any communication with the BCCI prior to his sacking as the ODI captain and if the board members had asked him to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain. He, thus, denied having any proper communication in advance before his removal as the ODI skipper and even rubbished claims that he was asked to reconsider his decision of resigning as the captain in the shortest format. Thus, there have been many reactions post Kohli's explosive press conference. Former Indian captain and World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to Kohli's statements. Talking to ABP News, Kapil said, "It is not good to point fingers on anybody at this point in time. The South Africa tour is coming and please pay attention to the tour. I would say board president is board president but yes, the Indian cricket team captain is also a big thing. But talking badly about each other in public, I don't think it is a good thing, whether it is Sourav or Kohli." ALSO READ | BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row He added, "You have to control the situation and it would be better to think about the country first. Whatever is wrong will be known soon but speaking publicly about the topic, I think, is wrong at this time. I would not want to see any controversy ahead of an important tour." ALSO READ | 'This is.....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Virat Kohli promises 'absolute support' to Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has also reacted to Kohli's claims, which are contrary to what was said by the board president. Hence, Ganguly told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately." Amid all the mess, India have left for South Africa where the national side is scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour will commence with the first Test on December 26 in Centurion.

Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference

Everything is not at its very best in Indian cricket thanks to the mess created following the ODI captaincy switch in senior men's team. On December 8, BCCI had removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as his successor.&nbsp;

Since then, many reports started flowing in that Kohli and Rohit are at loggerheads and there is an alleged rift between the duo. Hence, Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure for the South Africa tour on Wednesday (December 15).

During the Q/A session with the media, Kohli opened up on whether he had any communication with the selectors and board members prior to his removal as ODI captain and if he was asked to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I skipper.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-virat-kohli-promises-absolute-support-to-rohit-sharma-rahul-dravid-437351">'This is.....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Virat Kohli promises 'absolute support' to Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid</a>

To this, Kohli said, "Whatever was said about the communication that happened about the decision that was made was inaccurate. I was contacted one-and-a-half hours before the selection meeting on December 8 for the Test series and there was no prior communication to me at all since I announced my decision on T20I captaincy."

"When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’," added Kohli.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-kept-in-loop-bcci-sources-claim-odi-captaincy-switch-was-collective-decision-437330">Virat Kohli was kept in loop: BCCI sources claim ODI captaincy switch was 'collective' decision</a>

Hence, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly received a lot of flak on social media platforms as he had earlier claimed to have spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of resigning as the T20I skipper. Hence, the BCCI president has now told&nbsp;News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately."

Earlier, Ganguly had told News18, "I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up the T20I captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know.

"Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that's why this decision. I don't know what's going to happen in future. But as I said, it's a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around," he added.&nbsp;

Thus, Ganguly and Kohli's statements have been poles apart from each other as the tension is brewing in Indian cricket with each passing day. At present, India left for South Africa on Thursday (December 16) where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

Everything is not at its very best in Indian cricket thanks to the mess created following the ODI captaincy switch in senior men's team. On December 8, BCCI had removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as his successor.

Everything is not at its very best in Indian cricket thanks to the mess created following the ODI captaincy switch in senior men's team. On December 8, BCCI had removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as his successor. Since then, many reports started flowing in that Kohli and Rohit are at loggerheads and there is an alleged rift between the duo. Hence, Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure for the South Africa tour on Wednesday (December 15). During the Q/A session with the media, Kohli opened up on whether he had any communication with the selectors and board members prior to his removal as ODI captain and if he was asked to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I skipper. ALSO READ | 'This is.....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Virat Kohli promises 'absolute support' to Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid To this, Kohli said, "Whatever was said about the communication that happened about the decision that was made was inaccurate. I was contacted one-and-a-half hours before the selection meeting on December 8 for the Test series and there was no prior communication to me at all since I announced my decision on T20I captaincy." "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’," added Kohli. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was kept in loop: BCCI sources claim ODI captaincy switch was 'collective' decision Hence, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly received a lot of flak on social media platforms as he had earlier claimed to have spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of resigning as the T20I skipper. Hence, the BCCI president has now told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately." Earlier, Ganguly had told News18, "I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up the T20I captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know. "Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that's why this decision. I don't know what's going to happen in future. But as I said, it's a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around," he added. Thus, Ganguly and Kohli's statements have been poles apart from each other as the tension is brewing in Indian cricket with each passing day. At present, India left for South Africa on Thursday (December 16) where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row

Team India's Test captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side left for South Africa, for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. On Wednesday (December 15), the 33-year-old Kohli interacted with the press to clear the air on a number of issues pertaining to Indian cricket.

In recent times, there has been several changes in the men's cricket team with Rohit Sharma being appointed the limited-overs captain, resulting in Kohli's sacking as ODI skipper. Hence, rumours of alleged rift between Rohit and Kohli spread like wildfire before the latter rubbished all such claims in the press conference.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-explosive-presser-ganguly-should-be-asked-why-there-is-this-discrepancy-says-gavaskar-437196">Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar</a>

Kohli further told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
💬 💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jXUwZ5W1Dz">pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1471046347021111296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Following Kohli's claims on being hundred percent behind Rohit-Dravid, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar joined the bandwagon and reacted saying, "This is absolutely right. When you play for the Indian team, you dedicate your body and mind to it and thrive for its success. It doesn't matter who is or isn't the captain because you get pride in your own performance and helping the team win... There's no two ways about the fact that whoever plays for the Indian team, does it with all his/her energy. Yes, this is a sport, you can't always be successful. That's why even yesterday I said that don't believe these reports via these sources. Ask the players themselves," the iconic cricketer said on&nbsp;Sports Tak.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-a-very-able-captain-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-team-indias-limited-overs-skipper-437109">Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper</a>

Gavaskar further came hard on ones spreading fake news and said, "This has been the problem with Indian cricket for years. Whenever there are two players with a bit of up-down regarding captaincy, one captain here and the other there, then the rumors that spread here... I am not saying that media does it but it happens a lot via social media and public media. These rumors that fly out have now been proven as fake news. This is all wrong because all of us need to take Indian cricket forward, whether we are playing or not. What do you get from these rumors?"

On Thursday (December 16), Kohli-led Indian Test team left for South Africa where they will play three Tests, from December 26, before the action moves to the ODI series.

Rohit won't be part of the Test series, due to injury, but Kohli has made it clear that he will be available for the ODIs, contrary to reports claiming that he had asked for a leave during that period.

Team India's Test captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side left for South Africa, for three Tests and equal number of ODIs.

Team India's Test captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side left for South Africa, for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. On Wednesday (December 15), the 33-year-old Kohli interacted with the press to clear the air on a number of issues pertaining to Indian cricket. In recent times, there has been several changes in the men's cricket team with Rohit Sharma being appointed the limited-overs captain, resulting in Kohli's sacking as ODI skipper. Hence, rumours of alleged rift between Rohit and Kohli spread like wildfire before the latter rubbished all such claims in the press conference. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar Kohli further told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video: 💬 💬 @ImRo45 and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: @imVkohli #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz — BCCI (@BCCI) December 15, 2021 × Following Kohli's claims on being hundred percent behind Rohit-Dravid, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar joined the bandwagon and reacted saying, "This is absolutely right. When you play for the Indian team, you dedicate your body and mind to it and thrive for its success. It doesn't matter who is or isn't the captain because you get pride in your own performance and helping the team win... There's no two ways about the fact that whoever plays for the Indian team, does it with all his/her energy. Yes, this is a sport, you can't always be successful. That's why even yesterday I said that don't believe these reports via these sources. Ask the players themselves," the iconic cricketer said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper Gavaskar further came hard on ones spreading fake news and said, "This has been the problem with Indian cricket for years. Whenever there are two players with a bit of up-down regarding captaincy, one captain here and the other there, then the rumors that spread here... I am not saying that media does it but it happens a lot via social media and public media. These rumors that fly out have now been proven as fake news. This is all wrong because all of us need to take Indian cricket forward, whether we are playing or not. What do you get from these rumors?" On Thursday (December 16), Kohli-led Indian Test team left for South Africa where they will play three Tests, from December 26, before the action moves to the ODI series. Rohit won't be part of the Test series, due to injury, but Kohli has made it clear that he will be available for the ODIs, contrary to reports claiming that he had asked for a leave during that period.

'This is.....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Virat Kohli promises 'absolute support' to Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid

Indian cricket isn't at its best right now. Ever since BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma in his place as the limited-overs captain, things haven't been very smooth.&nbsp;Many believe lack of proper communication has been the reason for contrasting statements made by Kohli and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, following the ODI captaincy switch.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. The Indian Test captain opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and also opined on quitting T20I captaincy. He maintained that he wasn't informed about his sacking as the ODI captain in advance and was also not asked to reconsider his decision of leaving T20I captaincy, as stated by Ganguly.&nbsp;

Kohli told the press, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting (on Rohit being given the ODI captaincy). I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meet, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting."

On stepping aside as T20I captain, he said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-was-no-communication-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-losing-odi-captaincy-to-rohit-sharma-437011">'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma</a>

Now, BCCI sources have&nbsp;claimed that Kohli was kept on the loop regarding ODI captaincy switch. A BCCI source told Times Now in complete confidentiality, "A change in captaincy is not a small decision and Virat Kohli was kept in loop before the decision was made."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wasnt-told-to-virat-kohli-contradicts-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-on-resigning-as-indias-t20i-captain-437148">'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain</a>

Amid all this, the confusion among Indian cricket fans is at an all-time high due to the contrasting statements and lack of clarity regarding the turn of recent events and developments.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India have left for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each&nbsp;starting from December 26.

Indian cricket isn't at its best right now. Ever since BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma in his place as the limited-overs captain, things haven't been very smooth.

Indian cricket isn't at its best right now. Ever since BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma in his place as the limited-overs captain, things haven't been very smooth. Many believe lack of proper communication has been the reason for contrasting statements made by Kohli and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, following the ODI captaincy switch. On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. The Indian Test captain opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and also opined on quitting T20I captaincy. He maintained that he wasn't informed about his sacking as the ODI captain in advance and was also not asked to reconsider his decision of leaving T20I captaincy, as stated by Ganguly. Kohli told the press, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting (on Rohit being given the ODI captaincy). I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meet, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting." On stepping aside as T20I captain, he said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them." ALSO READ | 'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma Now, BCCI sources have claimed that Kohli was kept on the loop regarding ODI captaincy switch. A BCCI source told Times Now in complete confidentiality, "A change in captaincy is not a small decision and Virat Kohli was kept in loop before the decision was made." ALSO READ | 'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain Amid all this, the confusion among Indian cricket fans is at an all-time high due to the contrasting statements and lack of clarity regarding the turn of recent events and developments. Meanwhile, India have left for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each starting from December 26.

Virat Kohli was kept in loop: BCCI sources claim ODI captaincy switch was 'collective' decision

Plenty of major developments have taken place in Team India following the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Firstly, Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended and he got replaced by Rahul Dravid whereas Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain post the latter's resignation after the World Cup.

Last week, the BCC announced Rohit Sharma as the new ODI captain, removing Kohli. Hence, Hitman has now taken over as the limited-overs captain whereas Kohli remains the leader in-charge of the Test line-up. In addition, Rohit has been promoted as the Test vice-captain, replacing Ajinkya Rahane. Following the turn of events, news of Rohit's injury came out, ruling him out of the Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26.

On the other hand, many news portals have reported that Kohli is willing to skip the South Africa ODIs in order to celebrate the first birthday of his daughter Vamika. Thus, Rohit's injury and Kohli's reported absence from ODIs raised eyebrows as many suspected all isn't right between the two cricketers post the captaincy switch in the 50-over format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-shouldnt-jump-to-conclusions-gavaskar-reacts-as-many-sniff-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436932">We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

Sharing his views on the Kohli-Rohit matter, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur recently told&nbsp;Times Now, "Nobody is bigger than the game. BCCI should look into it if there’s anything in this regard."

A BCCI official, on the other hand, told PTI that Virat has&nbsp;not made any such requests to the Indian board, so far, to miss the SA ODIs.

"As of now, Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to skip the ODIs to either BCCI president Sourav Ganguly or secretary Jay Shah. If something is decided at a later date or God forbid, he sustains an injury, then it's a different matter," a senior BCCI official privy to developments told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "As things stand today, he is playing the three ODIs on January 19, 21, 23," he added.

&nbsp;A report in Cricbuzz has also confirmed that the 33-year-old will play the ODIs in the African nation, early next year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hasnt-sent-any-formal-request-to-miss-sa-odis-reveals-bcci-official-436882">Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official</a>

For the unversed, Kohli is set to address the media in a press conference on Wednesday (December 15) afternoon, prior to Team India's departure to South Africa&nbsp;on December 16 (Thursday). A lot of clarity is expected following Kohli's interaction with the press.&nbsp;

India will tour SA for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, with the tour opener commencing on December 26 in the form of the first Test&nbsp;at Centurion.

Plenty of major developments have taken place in Team India following the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Firstly, Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended and he got replaced by Rahul Dravid whereas Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain post the latter's resignation after the World Cup.

Plenty of major developments have taken place in Team India following the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Firstly, Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended and he got replaced by Rahul Dravid whereas Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain post the latter's resignation after the World Cup. Last week, the BCC announced Rohit Sharma as the new ODI captain, removing Kohli. Hence, Hitman has now taken over as the limited-overs captain whereas Kohli remains the leader in-charge of the Test line-up. In addition, Rohit has been promoted as the Test vice-captain, replacing Ajinkya Rahane. Following the turn of events, news of Rohit's injury came out, ruling him out of the Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26. On the other hand, many news portals have reported that Kohli is willing to skip the South Africa ODIs in order to celebrate the first birthday of his daughter Vamika. Thus, Rohit's injury and Kohli's reported absence from ODIs raised eyebrows as many suspected all isn't right between the two cricketers post the captaincy switch in the 50-over format. ALSO READ | We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Sharing his views on the Kohli-Rohit matter, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur recently told Times Now, "Nobody is bigger than the game. BCCI should look into it if there’s anything in this regard." A BCCI official, on the other hand, told PTI that Virat has not made any such requests to the Indian board, so far, to miss the SA ODIs. "As of now, Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to skip the ODIs to either BCCI president Sourav Ganguly or secretary Jay Shah. If something is decided at a later date or God forbid, he sustains an injury, then it's a different matter," a senior BCCI official privy to developments told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "As things stand today, he is playing the three ODIs on January 19, 21, 23," he added. A report in Cricbuzz has also confirmed that the 33-year-old will play the ODIs in the African nation, early next year. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official For the unversed, Kohli is set to address the media in a press conference on Wednesday (December 15) afternoon, prior to Team India's departure to South Africa on December 16 (Thursday). A lot of clarity is expected following Kohli's interaction with the press. India will tour SA for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, with the tour opener commencing on December 26 in the form of the first Test at Centurion.

Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

India Test skipper Virat Kohli said Rohit Sharma's absence in the Test series against South Africa is a big problem for the Men in Blues as his partnership was an important factor.

Rohit was ruled out of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury during the practice session.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-explosive-presser-ganguly-should-be-asked-why-there-is-this-discrepancy-says-gavaskar-437196">Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar</a>

"Will miss his abilities a lot. He's proven in England already that he's really worked his Test game out, and the opening partnership was very important for us to play in that series. Obviously, with his experience and skill, we will miss those qualities," said Virat Kohli in a virtual conference.

"That said, it's an opportunity for Mayank [Agarwal] and KL [Rahul] to step up and solidify that start for us and make sure the good work is carried on in this series," he added.

Rohit will be missing the upcoming Test series after the hamstring injury and Priyank Panchal was named as the replacement. Last week, Rohit was handed the reins of ODIs along with the T20I formats.

Talking about Ravindra Jadeja's absence due to a forearm injury, Kohli said that the all-rounder contributes to all three departments and the team will try to create the best combination possible in his absence.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-marnus-labuschagne-rises-to-second-spot-in-tests-babar-azam-dethroned-in-t20is-437189">ICC Rankings: Marnus Labuschagne rises to second spot in Tests, Babar Azam dethroned in T20Is</a>

"Jadeja is a very important player for us, he contributes to all three departments, which is invaluable overseas, and he will be missed. That said, we do have the quality in the side to be able to create the best combination possible and still be able to win Test matches because we've created that bench strength and environment where people coming in are seizing opportunities, grabbing it with both hands, and making sure the team is helped by their performances. As much as we'll miss him, it won't be a deciding factor," said Kohli.&nbsp;

India Test skipper Virat Kohli said Rohit Sharma's absence in the Test series against South Africa is a big problem for the Men in Blues as his partnership was an important factor.

India Test skipper Virat Kohli said Rohit Sharma's absence in the Test series against South Africa is a big problem for the Men in Blues as his partnership was an important factor. Rohit was ruled out of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury during the practice session. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar "Will miss his abilities a lot. He's proven in England already that he's really worked his Test game out, and the opening partnership was very important for us to play in that series. Obviously, with his experience and skill, we will miss those qualities," said Virat Kohli in a virtual conference. "That said, it's an opportunity for Mayank [Agarwal] and KL [Rahul] to step up and solidify that start for us and make sure the good work is carried on in this series," he added. Rohit will be missing the upcoming Test series after the hamstring injury and Priyank Panchal was named as the replacement. Last week, Rohit was handed the reins of ODIs along with the T20I formats. Talking about Ravindra Jadeja's absence due to a forearm injury, Kohli said that the all-rounder contributes to all three departments and the team will try to create the best combination possible in his absence. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Marnus Labuschagne rises to second spot in Tests, Babar Azam dethroned in T20Is "Jadeja is a very important player for us, he contributes to all three departments, which is invaluable overseas, and he will be missed. That said, we do have the quality in the side to be able to create the best combination possible and still be able to win Test matches because we've created that bench strength and environment where people coming in are seizing opportunities, grabbing it with both hands, and making sure the team is helped by their performances. As much as we'll miss him, it won't be a deciding factor," said Kohli.

Will miss Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja's abilities in Test series vs South Africa, says Virat Kohli

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