The India-England Tests proved to a high-voltage affair and the five-match series was set for a terrific finale, at Old Trafford, Manchester, when the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. With the majority of India's support staff testing positive for Covid-19, India couldn't field an XI for the fifth and final Test and had to back out at the last moment.

Despite being 2-1 up in the series, Kohli &amp; Co. were heavily criticised for their decision to cancel the tour ahead of the final Test, with many saying that the players didn't want to jeopardise IPL 14's UAE leg. Since then, not many cricketers have opened up on what happened in Manchester and the circumstances which led to the visitors cancelling the tour.&nbsp;

Shardul Thakur has now finally broken his silence and told in an interview with Indian Express, "I heard someone whispering about it and the general feeling was what will happen next. As the match was on, everyone was focused on the game. It was the first time we were without our main support staff."

"They used to call us at the end of the day. I spoke to Bharat Arun Sir, he spoke about what kind of line and length I can bowl. If they had any points they used to tell us after the game," he further explained.

"We were worried about what will happen, who will be infected since Parmar had treated everyone. We didn’t know how things would go ahead because tracking this infection is next to impossible. The next four-five days were vulnerable for us because there was fear that it could happen to me or it could happen to anyone. Everyone was worried about their and their family’s health," the pacer added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anything-can-happen-at-any-time-virat-kohli-opens-up-about-fifth-test-being-cancelled-412917">'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled</a>

For the unversed, India's head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar had contracted the virus, after which physios Nitin Patel and Yogesh Parmar also tested positive; prompting Team India to back out before the final Test despite them having a chance to win their first-ever Tests on English soil after 2007.

As of now, ICC is yet to decide on the fate of the final Test at Manchester. It might be played next year during India's white-ball tour of England, as a continuation of the 2021 series or a one-off Test. The final decision remains awaited.

The India-England Tests proved to a high-voltage affair and the five-match series was set for a terrific finale, at Old Trafford, Manchester, when the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp.

The India-England Tests proved to a high-voltage affair and the five-match series was set for a terrific finale, at Old Trafford, Manchester, when the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. With the majority of India's support staff testing positive for Covid-19, India couldn't field an XI for the fifth and final Test and had to back out at the last moment. Despite being 2-1 up in the series, Kohli & Co. were heavily criticised for their decision to cancel the tour ahead of the final Test, with many saying that the players didn't want to jeopardise IPL 14's UAE leg. Since then, not many cricketers have opened up on what happened in Manchester and the circumstances which led to the visitors cancelling the tour. Shardul Thakur has now finally broken his silence and told in an interview with Indian Express, "I heard someone whispering about it and the general feeling was what will happen next. As the match was on, everyone was focused on the game. It was the first time we were without our main support staff." "They used to call us at the end of the day. I spoke to Bharat Arun Sir, he spoke about what kind of line and length I can bowl. If they had any points they used to tell us after the game," he further explained. "We were worried about what will happen, who will be infected since Parmar had treated everyone. We didn’t know how things would go ahead because tracking this infection is next to impossible. The next four-five days were vulnerable for us because there was fear that it could happen to me or it could happen to anyone. Everyone was worried about their and their family’s health," the pacer added. ALSO READ | 'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled For the unversed, India's head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar had contracted the virus, after which physios Nitin Patel and Yogesh Parmar also tested positive; prompting Team India to back out before the final Test despite them having a chance to win their first-ever Tests on English soil after 2007. As of now, ICC is yet to decide on the fate of the final Test at Manchester. It might be played next year during India's white-ball tour of England, as a continuation of the 2021 series or a one-off Test. The final decision remains awaited.

Shardul Thakur reacts as Team India draw criticism for cancelled Manchester Test vs England

Virat Kohli's decision to step down as Team India's T20 captain after the ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai has been labelled as "unselfish" by former England skipper Michael Vaughan. On Thursday (September 15), Virat announced that he is stepping down as skipper of the Indian Twenty20 after the World Cup. Virat said that he has "given everything to the Team" as T20 captain and will continue to do so as a batsman moving forward.&nbsp;

Commenting on Virat's post on Instagram, Vaughan wrote, "Well Done... that's a very unselfish decision and also one which will give you some nice space to hopefully relax a little away from all the pressures."&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup will get underway from October 17, with the final to be played in Dubai on November 14. India and Pakistan will be locking horns on October 24 in a group-stage encounter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/timely-done-or-untimely-virat-kohlis-resignation-as-t20i-captain-after-world-cup-leads-to-more-questions-than-answers-413572">Timely done or untimely? Virat Kohli's resignation as T20I captain after World Cup leads to more questions than answers</a>

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8f954288-7027-47e0-8e2e-429dae33cc12" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/virat.PNG" />

If we talk about Kohli's numbers in T20Is, he captained India in 45 matches with the side winning 27 out of those. India only lost 14 T20Is under Kohli captaincy while two games were tied and two matches had no results.&nbsp;

Virat wrote, "I feel I need to give myself space to be Full ready to Lead the Indian team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a Batsman moving forward."&nbsp;

"I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team," Kohli further added in the statement.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-hardik-pandya-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-412928">Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a>

Talking about the workload, Virat said, "Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket."

Kohli said he arrived at his decision after discussing with head coach Ravi Shastri and opening batsman Rohit Sharma. "Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October," said Kohli.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's decision to step down as Team India's T20 captain after the ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai has been labelled as "unselfish" by former England skipper Michael Vaughan.

Virat Kohli's decision to step down as Team India's T20 captain after the ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai has been labelled as "unselfish" by former England skipper Michael Vaughan. On Thursday (September 15), Virat announced that he is stepping down as skipper of the Indian Twenty20 after the World Cup. Virat said that he has "given everything to the Team" as T20 captain and will continue to do so as a batsman moving forward. Commenting on Virat's post on Instagram, Vaughan wrote, "Well Done... that's a very unselfish decision and also one which will give you some nice space to hopefully relax a little away from all the pressures." The T20 World Cup will get underway from October 17, with the final to be played in Dubai on November 14. India and Pakistan will be locking horns on October 24 in a group-stage encounter. ALSO READ | Timely done or untimely? Virat Kohli's resignation as T20I captain after World Cup leads to more questions than answers If we talk about Kohli's numbers in T20Is, he captained India in 45 matches with the side winning 27 out of those. India only lost 14 T20Is under Kohli captaincy while two games were tied and two matches had no results. Virat wrote, "I feel I need to give myself space to be Full ready to Lead the Indian team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a Batsman moving forward." "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team," Kohli further added in the statement. IN PICS | Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols Talking about the workload, Virat said, "Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket." Kohli said he arrived at his decision after discussing with head coach Ravi Shastri and opening batsman Rohit Sharma. "Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October," said Kohli.

Michael Vaughan calls Virat Kohli's decision to step down as India's T20I captain 'unselfish'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-given-everything-to-team-virat-kohli-to-step-down-as-indias-t20-captain-after-t20-world-cup-in-uae-413552">Virat Kohli</a> has stunned the whole cricketing fraternity by announcing his decision to step down as India's T20I captain after the upcoming World Cup in UAE.&nbsp;

On Thursday (September 16), the 32-year-old tweeted, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team."

"I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward."

"Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-hardik-pandya-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-412928">Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a>&nbsp;

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🇮🇳 ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Ds7okjhj9J">pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1438478585518456832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While talks were rife that Kohli should step down as limited-overs captain or at least get rid of the responsibilities from the shortest version due to his inability to lead India to an ICC title since taking over fully in early 2017, the criticism always seemed a bit harsh. After all, 'a captain is only as good as the team'. However, talks intensified after India lost the WTC final in mid-2021.

Moreover, Kohli's form across formats hasn't been at a level his fan clubs are used to.&nbsp;The maverick cricketer has set supremely high standards courtesy of his unmatched zeal for success, jaw-dropping consistency, strong will and fitness. Keeping all this in mind, his recent dip in form has become a topic of debate worldwide. For the unversed, his last international ton came in late 2019.

To add to it, cricket in COVID-19 times hasn't been easy, to say the least. Bio-bubble life, strict quarantine rules, being away from family for months or staying confined with them on tours has affected someone as mentally strong as Kohli.&nbsp;

While some may say that Kohli's decision was long due, his timing does trigger some panic among the Team India fans.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-tour-of-new-zealand-pushed-to-late-2022-amid-cramped-schedule-due-to-covid-19-report-413454">India's tour of New Zealand pushed to late 2022 amid cramped schedule due to Covid-19: Report</a>

As the current all-format skipper has made it clear that he won't leave captaincy duties before the T20 World Cup -- which is praiseworthy -- a section of fans are already wondering if the timing of the decision can create adverse consequences. Here are some&nbsp;glaring questions which arises after Kohli's recent decision:&nbsp;

1) Could Kohli have announced his decision after the world cup, irrespective of India's campaign?&nbsp;

2) Clash of views? With Rohit Sharma very likely to succeed Kohli, he will want more say in decision-making even during the World cup. The leadership group already stars Kohli, Ravi Shastri (head coach) and MS Dhoni (team mentor). While Rohit was anyway going to be a part of crucial decisions, will he have a larger say, leading to varied opinions?&nbsp;

3) What if Kohli manages to lead India to the coveted title? Will he reconsider? Given that the superstar cricketer remains firm on his stance at all times, it is highly unlikely. But, it can lead to more talks regarding the timing of his decision.&nbsp;

For now, Indian fans have to believe that there is proper communication among the senior team management. However, India's T20 World Cup performance will now be measured more closely. If&nbsp;the Men in Blue fail to win the trophy, the timing of Kohli's latest decision might raise eyebrows; leading to his naysayers having plenty to scrutinise.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has stunned the whole cricketing fraternity by announcing his decision to step down as India's T20I captain after the upcoming World Cup in UAE. On Thursday (September 16), the 32-year-old tweeted, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability.

Virat Kohli has stunned the whole cricketing fraternity by announcing his decision to step down as India's T20I captain after the upcoming World Cup in UAE. On Thursday (September 16), the 32-year-old tweeted, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team." "I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward." "Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability." IN PICS | Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols 🇮🇳 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 16, 2021 × While talks were rife that Kohli should step down as limited-overs captain or at least get rid of the responsibilities from the shortest version due to his inability to lead India to an ICC title since taking over fully in early 2017, the criticism always seemed a bit harsh. After all, 'a captain is only as good as the team'. However, talks intensified after India lost the WTC final in mid-2021. Moreover, Kohli's form across formats hasn't been at a level his fan clubs are used to. The maverick cricketer has set supremely high standards courtesy of his unmatched zeal for success, jaw-dropping consistency, strong will and fitness. Keeping all this in mind, his recent dip in form has become a topic of debate worldwide. For the unversed, his last international ton came in late 2019. To add to it, cricket in COVID-19 times hasn't been easy, to say the least. Bio-bubble life, strict quarantine rules, being away from family for months or staying confined with them on tours has affected someone as mentally strong as Kohli. While some may say that Kohli's decision was long due, his timing does trigger some panic among the Team India fans. ALSO READ | India's tour of New Zealand pushed to late 2022 amid cramped schedule due to Covid-19: Report As the current all-format skipper has made it clear that he won't leave captaincy duties before the T20 World Cup -- which is praiseworthy -- a section of fans are already wondering if the timing of the decision can create adverse consequences. Here are some glaring questions which arises after Kohli's recent decision: 1) Could Kohli have announced his decision after the world cup, irrespective of India's campaign? 2) Clash of views? With Rohit Sharma very likely to succeed Kohli, he will want more say in decision-making even during the World cup. The leadership group already stars Kohli, Ravi Shastri (head coach) and MS Dhoni (team mentor). While Rohit was anyway going to be a part of crucial decisions, will he have a larger say, leading to varied opinions? 3) What if Kohli manages to lead India to the coveted title? Will he reconsider? Given that the superstar cricketer remains firm on his stance at all times, it is highly unlikely. But, it can lead to more talks regarding the timing of his decision. For now, Indian fans have to believe that there is proper communication among the senior team management. However, India's T20 World Cup performance will now be measured more closely. If the Men in Blue fail to win the trophy, the timing of Kohli's latest decision might raise eyebrows; leading to his naysayers having plenty to scrutinise.

Timely done or untimely? Virat Kohli's resignation as T20I captain after World Cup leads to more questions than answers

Team India's tour of New Zealand has now been pushed to late 2022 due to the cramped cricketing schedule. The Kane Williamson-led Black Caps were set to host India over the summer but the tour has been postponed and will now be held after the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia.&nbsp;

For the unversed, the WTC finalists India and New Zealand were set to lock horns in a 3-ODI series, a part of the ODI World Cup Super League for the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, the calendar congestion -- with many series or tours still being postponed or cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis -- has meant that the tour had to be pushed ahead. A New Zealand Cricket (NZC) spokesperson has confirmed the development while talking to stuff.co.nz.

Thus, the Kiwis will now be hosting Bangladesh, The Netherlands, and South Africa this season.&nbsp; “We’ve got to be mindful of players coming back from a long winter and we’ve got to give them time at home as well,” NZC chief executive David White had told Stuff.

Nonetheless, while the tour has been postponed, there is no obstacle to India's home series versus New Zealand, which will be held this year after the T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli-led India will play hosts to the Blackcaps in November for two Tests and three T20Is.

India last toured New Zealand just before the Covid-19 crisis took over worldwide. Back then, Kohli &amp; Co. whitewashed New Zealand in the 5 T20Is, but were clean swept in the preceding three ODIs and two Tests.

Team India's tour of New Zealand has now been pushed to late 2022 due to the cramped cricketing schedule. The Kane Williamson-led Black Caps were set to host India over the summer but the tour has been postponed and will now be held after the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia.

Team India's tour of New Zealand has now been pushed to late 2022 due to the cramped cricketing schedule. The Kane Williamson-led Black Caps were set to host India over the summer but the tour has been postponed and will now be held after the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. For the unversed, the WTC finalists India and New Zealand were set to lock horns in a 3-ODI series, a part of the ODI World Cup Super League for the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, the calendar congestion -- with many series or tours still being postponed or cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis -- has meant that the tour had to be pushed ahead. A New Zealand Cricket (NZC) spokesperson has confirmed the development while talking to stuff.co.nz. Thus, the Kiwis will now be hosting Bangladesh, The Netherlands, and South Africa this season. “We’ve got to be mindful of players coming back from a long winter and we’ve got to give them time at home as well,” NZC chief executive David White had told Stuff. Nonetheless, while the tour has been postponed, there is no obstacle to India's home series versus New Zealand, which will be held this year after the T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli-led India will play hosts to the Blackcaps in November for two Tests and three T20Is. India last toured New Zealand just before the Covid-19 crisis took over worldwide. Back then, Kohli & Co. whitewashed New Zealand in the 5 T20Is, but were clean swept in the preceding three ODIs and two Tests.

India's tour of New Zealand pushed to late 2022 amid cramped schedule due to Covid-19: Report

Virat Kohli's batting struggles have been known to world cricket by now. The 32-year-old Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. Since then, the Indian captain has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats, but&nbsp;he hasn't converted any of them into a daddy hundred.&nbsp;

Amid his dip in form, many former cricketers and experts are of the opinion that it is time to see split-captaincy in Team India, with Kohli making way for Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats and rediscovering his form overall. However, former Indian skipper Kapil Dev feels Kohli's lean phase isn't due to captaincy pressure.&nbsp;

"For all these years, when he was scoring runs, no one said anything about captaincy affecting Virat's batting and now suddenly, there are opinions when there's been a little up and down in his graph. When he scored those double centuries and so many hundreds, wasn't there pressure then? It means that his captaincy should not be the focus. Instead, look at his ability," Kapil said on 'Uncut'.

"The graph has surely gone up and down but for how long? Age 28 to 32 is the time when you really blossom. He is now experienced and mature. If he returns to his old form, Virat will not only score a century or double ton; he will give you 300. He is so much mature now and there is no shortage of fitness when it comes to Kohli. He just needs to identify himself and look to score big," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

Despite much success in bilateral series across formats, Captain Kohli is facing the heat for not leading India to any ICC title since taking over as full-time captain in early 2017. In addition, his scratchy form hasn't helped his case in recent times. If he can lead India to the T20 World Cup title, courtesy some sparking performances with the bat, Kohli will silence his critics in style.

Virat Kohli's batting struggles have been known to world cricket by now. The 32-year-old Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. Since then, the Indian captain has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats, but he hasn't converted any of them into a daddy hundred.

Virat Kohli's batting struggles have been known to world cricket by now. The 32-year-old Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. Since then, the Indian captain has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats, but he hasn't converted any of them into a daddy hundred. Amid his dip in form, many former cricketers and experts are of the opinion that it is time to see split-captaincy in Team India, with Kohli making way for Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats and rediscovering his form overall. However, former Indian skipper Kapil Dev feels Kohli's lean phase isn't due to captaincy pressure. "For all these years, when he was scoring runs, no one said anything about captaincy affecting Virat's batting and now suddenly, there are opinions when there's been a little up and down in his graph. When he scored those double centuries and so many hundreds, wasn't there pressure then? It means that his captaincy should not be the focus. Instead, look at his ability," Kapil said on 'Uncut'. "The graph has surely gone up and down but for how long? Age 28 to 32 is the time when you really blossom. He is now experienced and mature. If he returns to his old form, Virat will not only score a century or double ton; he will give you 300. He is so much mature now and there is no shortage of fitness when it comes to Kohli. He just needs to identify himself and look to score big," he added. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary Despite much success in bilateral series across formats, Captain Kohli is facing the heat for not leading India to any ICC title since taking over as full-time captain in early 2017. In addition, his scratchy form hasn't helped his case in recent times. If he can lead India to the T20 World Cup title, courtesy some sparking performances with the bat, Kohli will silence his critics in style.

Virat Kohli's dip in form isn't because of captaincy pressure, feels former skipper Kapil Dev

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli &amp; Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues.

Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-rohit-sharmas-backing-led-to-r-ashwins-inclusion-in-virat-kohli-led-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-412041">How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a>

For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament.

Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game. Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli & Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues. Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin. ALSO READ | How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament. Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

T20 World Cup: Varun Chakravarthy pips R Ashwin in Gautam Gambhir's India XI for marquee face-off vs Pakistan

Virat Kohli-led India were on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil, after a gap of 14 years,&nbsp;when the fifth and final Test got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. Now, the cricketers have joined their respective franchises as IPL 2021's second and final leg is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE.

While Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will miss some of their key players in the final leg, they will hope to resume the season on a good note and win their first-ever IPL title. Currently, they are at the third spot in the points table. For them to do well and go the distance, Captain Kohli will have to score consistently. For the unversed, the 32-year-old Kohli hasn't been at his usual best since late 2019. While he hasn't scored an international ton since November 2019, he has registered fifty-plus scores across formats but hasn't been able to convert them into daddy hundreds.&nbsp;

Even in the first phase of IPL 14, Kohli amassed 198 runs in 7 matches at a strike-rate of 121.47, with one half-century. While he did some find form in the last two Tests versus England recently, it will be tough for him to adapt to the T20 format from Test cricket.

In this regard, Gautam Gambhir told on Star Sports' show 'Game Plan', "See there’s going to be a challenge for Virat and there’s going to be a huge challenge for AB de Villiers as well because he will be coming into the tournament without playing any cricket at all. Virat Kohli will have to adjust really quickly because there’ll be hardly any time for him to get used to it. From the five-Test-match series to the T20 format, and AB as well, because these guys need to get runs if they have to have a chance to first qualify for the playoffs and then probably go on to win the title."

RCB will resume their campaign in the final leg versus Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), on September 20 at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Will Kohli rediscover his form and take RCB to their first-ever IPL title? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli-led India were on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil, after a gap of 14 years, when the fifth and final Test got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp.

Virat Kohli-led India were on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil, after a gap of 14 years, when the fifth and final Test got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. Now, the cricketers have joined their respective franchises as IPL 2021's second and final leg is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE. While Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will miss some of their key players in the final leg, they will hope to resume the season on a good note and win their first-ever IPL title. Currently, they are at the third spot in the points table. For them to do well and go the distance, Captain Kohli will have to score consistently. For the unversed, the 32-year-old Kohli hasn't been at his usual best since late 2019. While he hasn't scored an international ton since November 2019, he has registered fifty-plus scores across formats but hasn't been able to convert them into daddy hundreds. Even in the first phase of IPL 14, Kohli amassed 198 runs in 7 matches at a strike-rate of 121.47, with one half-century. While he did some find form in the last two Tests versus England recently, it will be tough for him to adapt to the T20 format from Test cricket. In this regard, Gautam Gambhir told on Star Sports' show 'Game Plan', "See there’s going to be a challenge for Virat and there’s going to be a huge challenge for AB de Villiers as well because he will be coming into the tournament without playing any cricket at all. Virat Kohli will have to adjust really quickly because there’ll be hardly any time for him to get used to it. From the five-Test-match series to the T20 format, and AB as well, because these guys need to get runs if they have to have a chance to first qualify for the playoffs and then probably go on to win the title." RCB will resume their campaign in the final leg versus Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), on September 20 at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Will Kohli rediscover his form and take RCB to their first-ever IPL title? Only time will tell...

'Virat Kohli will have to...' - Gautam Gambhir makes bold claim on RCB captain's form ahead of IPL 2021 UAE leg

Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols

Indian skipper Virat Kohli opened up about the fifth Test against England being cancelled due to fears of COVID-19. Several Indian players, including Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah, &nbsp;have travelled to UAE for the upcoming IPL.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/matthew-hayden-and-vernon-philander-join-pakistan-teams-coaching-staff-412901" hreflang="en">Matthew Hayden and Vernon Philander join Pakistan team's coaching staff</a>

“Unfortunate that we had to end up here early, but with COVID in place, things are very uncertain. Anything can happen at any time," Kohli said in the ‘RCB Bold Diaries’ series on RCB Digital Media Platforms.

RCB skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in UAE on Sunday after the IPL franchise&nbsp;arranged a chartered flight from Manchester to Dubai.&nbsp;

"Hopefully, we're able to maintain a good, strong, and secure environment, and have a quality IPL. It's going to be an exciting phase and a very important one for us at RCB and then for the Indian team at the T20 World Cup,” he said.&nbsp;

Kohli also spoke about the new additions to the team and said, "I've been in touch with everyone. We've had discussions over the last month or so, a little longer than that with the replacements, who's coming and who's not.

"Eventually, we ended up replacing our key players with some top-quality cricketers. Our key players will be missed, and they are a part of the family, but the people coming in as well have great skill sets, especially for these conditions. So, I'm very excited to see them, with the whole group at practice and certainly very excited to resume a very good season that started last time around."

Royal Challengers Bangalore will resume their IPL 2021 campaign against the Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday, September 20, 2021, at Abu Dhabi.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli opened up about the fifth Test against England being cancelled due to fears of COVID-19. Several Indian players, including Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah, have travelled to UAE for the upcoming IPL.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli opened up about the fifth Test against England being cancelled due to fears of COVID-19. Several Indian players, including Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah, have travelled to UAE for the upcoming IPL. ALSO READ: Matthew Hayden and Vernon Philander join Pakistan team's coaching staff “Unfortunate that we had to end up here early, but with COVID in place, things are very uncertain. Anything can happen at any time," Kohli said in the ‘RCB Bold Diaries’ series on RCB Digital Media Platforms. RCB skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in UAE on Sunday after the IPL franchise arranged a chartered flight from Manchester to Dubai. "Hopefully, we're able to maintain a good, strong, and secure environment, and have a quality IPL. It's going to be an exciting phase and a very important one for us at RCB and then for the Indian team at the T20 World Cup,” he said. Kohli also spoke about the new additions to the team and said, "I've been in touch with everyone. We've had discussions over the last month or so, a little longer than that with the replacements, who's coming and who's not. "Eventually, we ended up replacing our key players with some top-quality cricketers. Our key players will be missed, and they are a part of the family, but the people coming in as well have great skill sets, especially for these conditions. So, I'm very excited to see them, with the whole group at practice and certainly very excited to resume a very good season that started last time around." Royal Challengers Bangalore will resume their IPL 2021 campaign against the Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday, September 20, 2021, at Abu Dhabi.

'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled

BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Virat Kohli-led Team India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with MS Dhoni being named as the team mentor for the marquee tournament in the UAE. The showpiece event will kick off in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion, on October 17.&nbsp;

As India remain without an ICC trophy since the 2013 Champions Trophy, the Men in Blue will be desperate to win their second T20 World Cup title. Under Kohli, India have remained a powerhouse across formats and even performed well in the last three ICC tournaments. However, they haven't returned as champions. Hence, the Indian cricket board has once again relied on Dhoni to work closely with the team as a mentor and help them end their ICC-title drought.

While many of the former cricketers have reacted to Dhoni's appointment as the team mentor, Ajay Jadeja also joined the bandwagon. However, he is surprised by the decision of Dhoni's addition and told during a discussion on Sony Sports, "It is impossible for me to understand. I am thinking for two days about what could be the thinking. I am not talking of MS Dhoni, the understanding he has or how useful he can be, I am not going towards that. It was like you sent Ravindra ahead of Ajinkya, the person thinks why it has been done. I am surprised. There is no fan bigger than me of MS Dhoni. I believe MS Dhoni was the first captain who made the next captain before leaving or they used to always keep changing whenever they wanted."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

"When you made and left and that player has taken that team to a different level, there is a coach who has taken the team to World No.1, what happened overnight that a mentor was required? That thinking is surprising me a little," he questioned the decision-making.

For the unversed, Dhoni has accepted to play the role of a mentor for Team India only for the upcoming ICC event. Currently, he is gearing up for the second and final leg of IPL 14, to kick off from September 19. 
&nbsp;

BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Virat Kohli-led Team India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with MS Dhoni being named as the team mentor for the marquee tournament in the UAE.

BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Virat Kohli-led Team India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with MS Dhoni being named as the team mentor for the marquee tournament in the UAE. The showpiece event will kick off in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion, on October 17. As India remain without an ICC trophy since the 2013 Champions Trophy, the Men in Blue will be desperate to win their second T20 World Cup title. Under Kohli, India have remained a powerhouse across formats and even performed well in the last three ICC tournaments. However, they haven't returned as champions. Hence, the Indian cricket board has once again relied on Dhoni to work closely with the team as a mentor and help them end their ICC-title drought. While many of the former cricketers have reacted to Dhoni's appointment as the team mentor, Ajay Jadeja also joined the bandwagon. However, he is surprised by the decision of Dhoni's addition and told during a discussion on Sony Sports, "It is impossible for me to understand. I am thinking for two days about what could be the thinking. I am not talking of MS Dhoni, the understanding he has or how useful he can be, I am not going towards that. It was like you sent Ravindra ahead of Ajinkya, the person thinks why it has been done. I am surprised. There is no fan bigger than me of MS Dhoni. I believe MS Dhoni was the first captain who made the next captain before leaving or they used to always keep changing whenever they wanted." ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary "When you made and left and that player has taken that team to a different level, there is a coach who has taken the team to World No.1, what happened overnight that a mentor was required? That thinking is surprising me a little," he questioned the decision-making. For the unversed, Dhoni has accepted to play the role of a mentor for Team India only for the upcoming ICC event. Currently, he is gearing up for the second and final leg of IPL 14, to kick off from September 19.

What happened overnight that a mentor was required? Ajay Jadeja on MS Dhoni's new role in Team India for T20 World Cup

There was a report which claimed that Kohli is willing to step down from the top spot in the limited-overs format and has already informed the team management and Rohit about his decision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anything-can-happen-at-any-time-virat-kohli-opens-up-about-fifth-test-being-cancelled-412917" hreflang="en">'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled</a>

A report by the Times of India said that Kohli had discussed with Rohit and will be stepping down after the ICC T20 World Cup. However, the BCCI treasurer has made it clear that Hitman won't take over as the captain in the shorter formats post the T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Now, BCCI's secretary Jay Shah has also dismissed the reports. While speaking to Cricbuzz, he said: "There is no such proposal and the team is led by Virat and we are backing him."

Since India failed to win the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner especially in the shorter formats.&nbsp;

So far, the 32-year-old has led India in two ICC events in white-ball cricket but the Men in Blue returned without a trophy despite playing very well.&nbsp;

Split captaincy debate surfaced once again after Kohli &amp; Co. failed to win the inaugural WTC final, versus New Zealand, in mid-June in Southampton.&nbsp;

Back then, many thought Kohli can give up limited-overs captaincy and take the team further ahead in the purest format of the game.&nbsp;

There was a report which claimed that Kohli is willing to step down from the top spot in the limited-overs format and has already informed the team management and Rohit about his decision.

There was a report which claimed that Kohli is willing to step down from the top spot in the limited-overs format and has already informed the team management and Rohit about his decision. ALSO READ: 'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled A report by the Times of India said that Kohli had discussed with Rohit and will be stepping down after the ICC T20 World Cup. However, the BCCI treasurer has made it clear that Hitman won't take over as the captain in the shorter formats post the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Now, BCCI's secretary Jay Shah has also dismissed the reports. While speaking to Cricbuzz, he said: "There is no such proposal and the team is led by Virat and we are backing him." Since India failed to win the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner especially in the shorter formats. So far, the 32-year-old has led India in two ICC events in white-ball cricket but the Men in Blue returned without a trophy despite playing very well. Split captaincy debate surfaced once again after Kohli & Co. failed to win the inaugural WTC final, versus New Zealand, in mid-June in Southampton. Back then, many thought Kohli can give up limited-overs captaincy and take the team further ahead in the purest format of the game.

'Team is led by Virat Kohli and we are backing him': Jay Shah on captaincy rumours

Split captaincy has been a topic of debate in Team India, especially after Virat Kohli failed to guide the Men in Blue to the ODI World Cup title in 2019. After India failed in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final as well, talks were rife that Kohli should be relieved of captaincy in the limited-overs format for him to focus on his batting across all forms of the game and take the Test side forward.

Ahead of the T20 World Cup, there are reports that suggest Kohli is willing to give up captaincy in white-ball format to his deputy Rohit Sharma. "Virat himself will make the announcement. He is of the view that he needs to concentrate on his batting and go back to becoming what he’s always been — the best batsman in the world,” TOI quoted sources as saying.

"Captaincy in 3 formats affecting Virat’s batting. We realise spin-masters will be at work, giving their own twists to these developments. That’s the reason BCCI is planning this well in advance. In the end, Virat and Rohit are on the same page. If he had to ever take over as white-ball captain, that time is now. And it’s going to be a win-win for the Indian team because the two senior cricketers are so well in tune with each other,” the source added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-there-an-alleged-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-ravi-shastri-breaks-his-silence-410083">Was there an alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Ravi Shastri breaks his silence</a>

For the unversed, Kohli's limited-overs captaincy has been under the scanner for sometime now. He led India to the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy and the semi-finals of 2019 ODI World Cup, but the national side returned without a title in the two marquee events. Moreover, Rohit's superior record as an IPL captain (leading Mumbai Indians to 5 IPL trophies) have always seen many former cricketers favouring him over Kohli as captain in the shorter formats.

Split captaincy has been a topic of debate in Team India, especially after Virat Kohli failed to guide the Men in Blue to the ODI World Cup title in 2019. After India failed in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final as well, talks were rife that Kohli should be relieved of captaincy in the limited-overs format for him to focus on his batting across all forms of the game and take the Test side forward.

Split captaincy has been a topic of debate in Team India, especially after Virat Kohli failed to guide the Men in Blue to the ODI World Cup title in 2019. After India failed in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final as well, talks were rife that Kohli should be relieved of captaincy in the limited-overs format for him to focus on his batting across all forms of the game and take the Test side forward. Ahead of the T20 World Cup, there are reports that suggest Kohli is willing to give up captaincy in white-ball format to his deputy Rohit Sharma. "Virat himself will make the announcement. He is of the view that he needs to concentrate on his batting and go back to becoming what he’s always been — the best batsman in the world,” TOI quoted sources as saying. "Captaincy in 3 formats affecting Virat’s batting. We realise spin-masters will be at work, giving their own twists to these developments. That’s the reason BCCI is planning this well in advance. In the end, Virat and Rohit are on the same page. If he had to ever take over as white-ball captain, that time is now. And it’s going to be a win-win for the Indian team because the two senior cricketers are so well in tune with each other,” the source added. ALSO READ | Was there an alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Ravi Shastri breaks his silence For the unversed, Kohli's limited-overs captaincy has been under the scanner for sometime now. He led India to the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy and the semi-finals of 2019 ODI World Cup, but the national side returned without a title in the two marquee events. Moreover, Rohit's superior record as an IPL captain (leading Mumbai Indians to 5 IPL trophies) have always seen many former cricketers favouring him over Kohli as captain in the shorter formats.

Rohit Sharma likely to replace Virat Kohli as Team India's limited-overs captain post T20 World Cup: Reports

On Monday (September 13), BCCI treasurer Arun&nbsp;Dhumal has dismissed all rumours of Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's white-ball captain from Virat Kohli. The BCCI treasurer has made it clear that Hitman won't take over as the captain in the shorter formats post the T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

There was a report, in Times of India, which claimed that Kohli is willing to step down from the top spot in the limited-overs format and has already informed the team management and Rohit about his decision. However, Dhumal reacted to the rumours and has put an end to the speculations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"This is all rubbish. Nothing (as) such is happening. This is all what you guys (media) are talking about. BCCI has not met or discussed anything on this issue (split captaincy)," Dhumal told IANS. "Virat will remain as the captain (of all formats),"&nbsp;the BCCI treasurer was quoted as saying by IANS.

Since India failed to win the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner especially in the shorter formats. So far, the 32-year-old has led India in two ICC events in white-ball cricket but the Men in Blue returned without a trophy despite playing very well. Split captaincy debate surfaced once again after Kohli &amp; Co. failed to win the inaugural WTC final, versus New Zealand, in mid-June in Southampton. Back then, many thought Kohli can give up limited-overs captaincy and take the team further ahead in the purest format of the game.&nbsp;

While Dhumal has completely denied all reports of Rohit to serve as captain in the white-ball formats, the topic might once again gain precedence if Kohli fails to guide India to the title in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Monday (September 13), BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has dismissed all rumours of Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's white-ball captain from Virat Kohli. The BCCI treasurer has made it clear that Hitman won't take over as the captain in the shorter formats post the T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

On Monday (September 13), BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has dismissed all rumours of Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's white-ball captain from Virat Kohli. The BCCI treasurer has made it clear that Hitman won't take over as the captain in the shorter formats post the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. There was a report, in Times of India, which claimed that Kohli is willing to step down from the top spot in the limited-overs format and has already informed the team management and Rohit about his decision. However, Dhumal reacted to the rumours and has put an end to the speculations. "This is all rubbish. Nothing (as) such is happening. This is all what you guys (media) are talking about. BCCI has not met or discussed anything on this issue (split captaincy)," Dhumal told IANS. "Virat will remain as the captain (of all formats)," the BCCI treasurer was quoted as saying by IANS. Since India failed to win the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner especially in the shorter formats. So far, the 32-year-old has led India in two ICC events in white-ball cricket but the Men in Blue returned without a trophy despite playing very well. Split captaincy debate surfaced once again after Kohli & Co. failed to win the inaugural WTC final, versus New Zealand, in mid-June in Southampton. Back then, many thought Kohli can give up limited-overs captaincy and take the team further ahead in the purest format of the game. While Dhumal has completely denied all reports of Rohit to serve as captain in the white-ball formats, the topic might once again gain precedence if Kohli fails to guide India to the title in the upcoming T20 World Cup. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat Kohli will remain captain: BCCI treasurer dismisses rumours of Rohit Sharma taking over as India's limited-overs skipper

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-test-skipper-paine-to-undergo-surgery-on-tuesday-expects-to-return-to-training-in-oct-412765" hreflang="en">Australia Test skipper Paine to undergo surgery on Tuesday, expects to return to training in Oct</a>

Now, former England cricketer David Gower has claimed what had happened between Indian captain Virat Kohli and the BCCI a day before the final Test between India and England.&nbsp;

"Wow! No one, least of all I, saw that coming. It leads us into unprecedented territories. I mean I know other matches have been abandoned… sometimes a few balls bowled and various other circumstances but to have the thing called off at the last moment – Virat Kohli e-mailed the BCCI at midnight the day before – the whole sequence of events needs explaining a little bit better," Gower told Cricket.com

"I was up there on the first morning on my way to watch Day 1 to enjoy some cricket, talk to people about the game to talk about the hospitality. But by the time I got there, of course, the situation had rather changed."

Several Indian stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have already arrived in UAE for the upcoming Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

"The worrying thing for me is this: If the IPL was so very closely linked to this, then that to me is very disappointing because… I mean sound old, crusty, but for all those people like me and dare I say, Virat… the last time he was in England, he made a big point about how important Test match cricket is to him… So, for all of us who like Test cricket and value it as the best part of the game, to see a Test abandoned like this was tragic," Gower added.

"Over the next days and week, more things would emerge. One or two things we haven't heard so far might come out to the public ears. But it does seem by the way that the Indian players have high-tailed out of town so quickly, already in the UAE preparing for the IPL. Maybe you can argue that it is sensible given the circumstances. It gives them the best chance to be part of it. But maybe that suggests that the IPL and cancellation were linked. There were some private things said between the Indian team and Indian board."

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled.

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled. ALSO READ: Australia Test skipper Paine to undergo surgery on Tuesday, expects to return to training in Oct Now, former England cricketer David Gower has claimed what had happened between Indian captain Virat Kohli and the BCCI a day before the final Test between India and England. "Wow! No one, least of all I, saw that coming. It leads us into unprecedented territories. I mean I know other matches have been abandoned… sometimes a few balls bowled and various other circumstances but to have the thing called off at the last moment – Virat Kohli e-mailed the BCCI at midnight the day before – the whole sequence of events needs explaining a little bit better," Gower told Cricket.com "I was up there on the first morning on my way to watch Day 1 to enjoy some cricket, talk to people about the game to talk about the hospitality. But by the time I got there, of course, the situation had rather changed." Several Indian stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have already arrived in UAE for the upcoming Indian Premier League. "The worrying thing for me is this: If the IPL was so very closely linked to this, then that to me is very disappointing because… I mean sound old, crusty, but for all those people like me and dare I say, Virat… the last time he was in England, he made a big point about how important Test match cricket is to him… So, for all of us who like Test cricket and value it as the best part of the game, to see a Test abandoned like this was tragic," Gower added. "Over the next days and week, more things would emerge. One or two things we haven't heard so far might come out to the public ears. But it does seem by the way that the Indian players have high-tailed out of town so quickly, already in the UAE preparing for the IPL. Maybe you can argue that it is sensible given the circumstances. It gives them the best chance to be part of it. But maybe that suggests that the IPL and cancellation were linked. There were some private things said between the Indian team and Indian board."

'Virat Kohli e-mailed the BCCI at midnight the day before 5th Test', says former England cricketer

Royal Challengers Bangalore Virat Kohli reached Dubai on Sunday (September 12) ahead of the resumption of the Indian Premier League 2021, soon after that his wife, the popular Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared some sweet pictures from the flight and also from the hotel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-lineup-even-stronger-as-shreyas-iyer-is-back-says-shikhar-dhawan-412599">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals lineup even stronger as Shreyas Iyer is back, says Shikhar Dhawan</a>

Anushka took to her Instagram stories to share a couple of photos, bidding farewell to the UK and saying hello to UAE. In the first pic, which was posted from the plane, the Bollywood star wrote, "Adios UK, you've been great, as always." In the next image, she wrote, "We are here!".&nbsp;

See pictures here:

<img alt="Anushka Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ab9d2a3-8eec-407e-9e25-185d19b12656" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Anushka%20Sharma.PNG" />

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RCB skipper Virat and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in Dubai on Sunday and the duo will now undergo six-day mandatory quarantine before joining the team bubble.&nbsp;

"The news you've all been waiting for: King Kohli and Miyan Magic have joined the team in Dubai," the official handle of RCB tweeted on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shane-warne-praises-virat-kohli-but-feels-indias-batting-not-as-strong-as-dravid-ganguly-laxman-tendulkar-sehwag-412587">Shane Warne praises Virat Kohli but feels India's batting not as strong as Dravid, Ganguly, Laxman, Tendulkar, Sehwag</a>

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The news you’ve all been waiting for: King Kohli and Miyan Magic have joined the team in Dubai. 🤩 
 
Bring on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a>. 💪🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZNH1CxhAg3">pic.twitter.com/ZNH1CxhAg3</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1436953732051189761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both&nbsp;the players were in Manchester for India vs England five-match Test series but after the deciding fifth contest was dramatically cancelled because of COVID-19 concerns in the Indian camp, players who were there started to fly to UAE for the second leg of IPL 2021.&nbsp;

The 14th season of the IPL, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 situation in India, will resume on September 19 with a blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore Virat Kohli reached Dubai on Sunday (September 12) ahead of the resumption of the Indian Premier League 2021, soon after that his wife, the popular Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared some sweet pictures from the flight and also from the hotel.

Royal Challengers Bangalore Virat Kohli reached Dubai on Sunday (September 12) ahead of the resumption of the Indian Premier League 2021, soon after that his wife, the popular Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared some sweet pictures from the flight and also from the hotel. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals lineup even stronger as Shreyas Iyer is back, says Shikhar Dhawan Anushka took to her Instagram stories to share a couple of photos, bidding farewell to the UK and saying hello to UAE. In the first pic, which was posted from the plane, the Bollywood star wrote, "Adios UK, you've been great, as always." In the next image, she wrote, "We are here!". See pictures here: RCB skipper Virat and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in Dubai on Sunday and the duo will now undergo six-day mandatory quarantine before joining the team bubble. "The news you've all been waiting for: King Kohli and Miyan Magic have joined the team in Dubai," the official handle of RCB tweeted on Sunday. ALSO READ | Shane Warne praises Virat Kohli but feels India's batting not as strong as Dravid, Ganguly, Laxman, Tendulkar, Sehwag The news you’ve all been waiting for: King Kohli and Miyan Magic have joined the team in Dubai. 🤩 Bring on #IPL2021. 💪🏻#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers pic.twitter.com/ZNH1CxhAg3 — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) September 12, 2021 × Both the players were in Manchester for India vs England five-match Test series but after the deciding fifth contest was dramatically cancelled because of COVID-19 concerns in the Indian camp, players who were there started to fly to UAE for the second leg of IPL 2021. The 14th season of the IPL, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 situation in India, will resume on September 19 with a blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.

IPL 2021: Anushka Sharma shares sweet images after arriving in Dubai with Virat Kohli - see pics

Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne praised the Indian skipper Virat Kohli and called him one of the "best batsmen" on the planet because of his career achievements, especially in the long format of cricket.&nbsp;

The spin legend also heaped praises on India's bowling attack, mentioning the star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. He feels that the batting lineup is good but not as strong as the one featuring former cricketers Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman.&nbsp;

Warne, who played plenty of international cricket against India's 'Fab Five', said on the YouTube channel of Sky Sports, "Their batting is nowhere near as strong as Dravid, Ganguly, Laxman, Tendulkar, Sehwag."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/important-for-us-to-start-ipl-phase-2-on-a-high-note-delhi-capitals-dhawan-412523">Important for us to start IPL phase-2 on a high note: Delhi Capitals' Dhawan</a>

"Virat Kohli is one of the best batsmen on the planet, if not the best across all forms, but when you see that top five of Sehwag, Ganguly, Dravid, Laxman, Tendulkar, that isn't bad. I don't think you can say that it's the best batting Indian side," he added.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are two standout players, and I think Rishabh Pant will be a superstar down the track. But I think it is their fast bowlers that have elevated India to be able to win in all conditions and not just in India," Warne said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virat-kohli-mohammed-siraj-arrive-in-dubai-to-undergo-six-day-quarantine-412524">IPL 2021: Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj arrive in Dubai, to undergo six-day quarantine</a>

Shane Warne talked about India's performance during India vs England Test series which unfortunately didn't conclude as expected after the fifth and deciding Test in Manchester was dramatically cancelled on Friday just over two hours before the scheduled start because of COVID-19 concerns in the tourists' camp.&nbsp;

India were 2-1 up in the five-match contest after a 157-run win in the fourth Test at the Oval and were bidding to complete a notable double just months after winning a series in Australia.&nbsp;

The BCCI said it had offered to reschedule the game, adding: "Both the boards will work towards finding a window to reschedule this Test match."&nbsp;

Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne praised the Indian skipper Virat Kohli and called him one of the "best batsmen" on the planet because of his career achievements, especially in the long format of cricket.

Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne praised the Indian skipper Virat Kohli and called him one of the "best batsmen" on the planet because of his career achievements, especially in the long format of cricket. The spin legend also heaped praises on India's bowling attack, mentioning the star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. He feels that the batting lineup is good but not as strong as the one featuring former cricketers Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman. Warne, who played plenty of international cricket against India's 'Fab Five', said on the YouTube channel of Sky Sports, "Their batting is nowhere near as strong as Dravid, Ganguly, Laxman, Tendulkar, Sehwag." ALSO READ | Important for us to start IPL phase-2 on a high note: Delhi Capitals' Dhawan "Virat Kohli is one of the best batsmen on the planet, if not the best across all forms, but when you see that top five of Sehwag, Ganguly, Dravid, Laxman, Tendulkar, that isn't bad. I don't think you can say that it's the best batting Indian side," he added. "Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are two standout players, and I think Rishabh Pant will be a superstar down the track. But I think it is their fast bowlers that have elevated India to be able to win in all conditions and not just in India," Warne said. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj arrive in Dubai, to undergo six-day quarantine Shane Warne talked about India's performance during India vs England Test series which unfortunately didn't conclude as expected after the fifth and deciding Test in Manchester was dramatically cancelled on Friday just over two hours before the scheduled start because of COVID-19 concerns in the tourists' camp. India were 2-1 up in the five-match contest after a 157-run win in the fourth Test at the Oval and were bidding to complete a notable double just months after winning a series in Australia. The BCCI said it had offered to reschedule the game, adding: "Both the boards will work towards finding a window to reschedule this Test match."

Shane Warne praises Virat Kohli but feels India's batting not as strong as Dravid, Ganguly, Laxman, Tendulkar, Sehwag

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in Dubai on Sunday ahead of the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/important-for-us-to-start-ipl-phase-2-on-a-high-note-delhi-capitals-dhawan-412523" hreflang="en">Important for us to start IPL phase-2 on a high note: Delhi Capitals' Dhawan</a>

The duo will now undergo six-day mandatory quarantine and then they both will join the team bubble in Dubai.

"The news you`ve all been waiting for: King Kohli and Miyan Magic have joined the team in Dubai," the official handle of RCB tweeted on Sunday.

Earlier, ANI had reported that RCB would be arranging a charter flight to get Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj into Dubai on Sunday morning, ahead of the resumption of the IPL 2021.

"Yes, we have arranged a charter flight for Virat and Siraj, both of them will be flying out at 11:30 PM UK time on Saturday and they will reach Dubai early Sunday morning. The safe transit of players is the utmost priority for RCB. They will undergo 6-day quarantine there before joining the team bubble," the source had said.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed all franchises that every player coming in from the UK will have to undergo six days of hard quarantine before they can join the existing team bubbles in UAE for the resumption of the 2021 edition of the IPL.

"The BCCI has informed us on Friday that every player coming in from UK to UAE will have to undergo six days of quarantine before they can join the team bubbles. Obviously the bubble to bubble transfer from UK to UAE no longer stands keeping in mind the current scenario," the official said.

With the final Test between India and England in Manchester cancelled, IPL franchises on Friday got in touch with charter companies to fly out their players from Manchester to UAE for the resumption of the cash-rich league.

The 14th season, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, will resume on September 19 in Dubai with a blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings and defending champions Mumbai Indians.

The action will then shift to Abu Dhabi where Kolkata Knight Riders will square off against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Sharjah will host its first game on September 24 when Royal Challengers Bangalore take on Chennai Super Kings. In all, 13 matches will be held in Dubai, 10 in Sharjah, and 8 in Abu Dhabi.

The board has come up with a 46-page health advisory that lays down all the pointers that everyone associated with the IPL needs to follow in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the league.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in Dubai on Sunday ahead of the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season.

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Mohammed Siraj arrived in Dubai on Sunday ahead of the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season. ALSO READ: Important for us to start IPL phase-2 on a high note: Delhi Capitals' Dhawan The duo will now undergo six-day mandatory quarantine and then they both will join the team bubble in Dubai. "The news you`ve all been waiting for: King Kohli and Miyan Magic have joined the team in Dubai," the official handle of RCB tweeted on Sunday. Earlier, ANI had reported that RCB would be arranging a charter flight to get Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj into Dubai on Sunday morning, ahead of the resumption of the IPL 2021. "Yes, we have arranged a charter flight for Virat and Siraj, both of them will be flying out at 11:30 PM UK time on Saturday and they will reach Dubai early Sunday morning. The safe transit of players is the utmost priority for RCB. They will undergo 6-day quarantine there before joining the team bubble," the source had said. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed all franchises that every player coming in from the UK will have to undergo six days of hard quarantine before they can join the existing team bubbles in UAE for the resumption of the 2021 edition of the IPL. "The BCCI has informed us on Friday that every player coming in from UK to UAE will have to undergo six days of quarantine before they can join the team bubbles. Obviously the bubble to bubble transfer from UK to UAE no longer stands keeping in mind the current scenario," the official said. With the final Test between India and England in Manchester cancelled, IPL franchises on Friday got in touch with charter companies to fly out their players from Manchester to UAE for the resumption of the cash-rich league. The 14th season, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, will resume on September 19 in Dubai with a blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings and defending champions Mumbai Indians. The action will then shift to Abu Dhabi where Kolkata Knight Riders will square off against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Sharjah will host its first game on September 24 when Royal Challengers Bangalore take on Chennai Super Kings. In all, 13 matches will be held in Dubai, 10 in Sharjah, and 8 in Abu Dhabi. The board has come up with a 46-page health advisory that lays down all the pointers that everyone associated with the IPL needs to follow in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the league.

IPL 2021: Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj arrive in Dubai, to undergo six-day quarantine

Team India's squad for the T20 World Cup was announced on Wednesday (September 8). The BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced a 15-man squad for the marquee event, which will be held in the UAE shortly after IPL 2021's second and final leg.&nbsp;

India's squad comprises a good mix of youth and experienced campaigners but the biggest surprise came in the form of&nbsp;MS Dhoni's inclusion. The former Indian captain, who announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, has been roped in as the team mentor for the showpiece event as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. will look to bank upon his vast experience, calm and composed nature, tactical acumen to end India's 8-year-long ICC title drought.

India have so far won the T20 World Cup only once, under Dhoni's leadership in 2007 whereas their last ICC trophy also came under the former skipper. Hence, his presence will be highly beneficial to Kohli-led brigade. Following the appointment of Dhoni in a new role, WION News' Aditya Sahay had an exclusive interaction with Bengal's veteran and Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary with regards to India's T20 WC squad, Dhoni and R Ashwin's surprise inclusion and more.

Will MS Dhoni's midas touch help India break the ICC title drought?&nbsp;

See, it is a huge boost for Team India. Having MS Dhoni around with the players which he has led over the period of time and even the youngsters....he has played with them in the IPL over a period of time. His experience will only help Kohli and the lower-order batters, who will have the responsibility to finish games. However, we got to realise that he's not going to be on field and play. His inputs will majorly help Kohli as a captain and the lower-order batters, but the performances will be solely dependent on the players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-india-squad-for-t20-world-cup-announced-ms-dhoni-named-team-mentor-r-ashwin-included-411692">Virat Kohli's India squad for T20 World Cup announced, MS Dhoni named team mentor; R Ashwin included</a>

It is upto Virat and the lower-order batters to get the best out of him. They can know what he was thinking in those periods when he was under pressure and got the decisions right as captain and batsman. It is, thus, entirely upto them on how to maximise his presence to the best of their abilities.&nbsp;

When Dhoni was fading away, not many grabbed the opportunity of becoming a finisher, except Hardik Pandya. Hence, let's see how he can help the rest, especially in the knockouts. We have seen in recent past how India have struggled in semi-finals and finals. That is where his experience will help them the most, psychologically.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/twitterati-hilariously-trolls-gautam-gambhir-after-ms-dhoni-named-team-indias-mentor-for-t20-world-cup-411749">Twitterati hilariously trolls Gautam Gambhir after MS Dhoni named Team India's mentor for T20 World Cup</a>

'R Ashwin has been branded as a Test specialist which isn't right'

On Ashwin's inclusion: I think we all have branded Ashwin as a Test specialist. We shouldn't have done that. I can understand why he was getting picked. If you see the players who had replaced him, they were slightly better in other two departments, i.e. batting and fielding. He remains far better than all the other off-spinners in the country. But if you look at the others who replaced him, they were better in fielding and batting capacity. Overall, I think it is a great replacement.

Ashwin's record in T20 World Cup is exceptional (with 20 wickets in 15 innings in T20 WCs). Although he hasn't played limited-overs since 2017, he will still have the hunger and eagerness to prove that he belongs in this format. He has all the variations in his armoury to perform successfully and consistently. I have full faith on him to shine bright whenever given a chance in the World Cup.

For the unversed, India will commence their campaign in the T20 WC on October 24, versus Pakistan. They are in Group 2, with the Men in Green, New Zealand, Afghanistan along with two other teams who will join from the qualifiers.

Team India's squad for the T20 World Cup was announced on Wednesday (September 8). The BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced a 15-man squad for the marquee event, which will be held in the UAE shortly after IPL 2021's second and final leg.

Team India's squad for the T20 World Cup was announced on Wednesday (September 8). The BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced a 15-man squad for the marquee event, which will be held in the UAE shortly after IPL 2021's second and final leg. India's squad comprises a good mix of youth and experienced campaigners but the biggest surprise came in the form of MS Dhoni's inclusion. The former Indian captain, who announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, has been roped in as the team mentor for the showpiece event as Virat Kohli & Co. will look to bank upon his vast experience, calm and composed nature, tactical acumen to end India's 8-year-long ICC title drought. India have so far won the T20 World Cup only once, under Dhoni's leadership in 2007 whereas their last ICC trophy also came under the former skipper. Hence, his presence will be highly beneficial to Kohli-led brigade. Following the appointment of Dhoni in a new role, WION News' Aditya Sahay had an exclusive interaction with Bengal's veteran and Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary with regards to India's T20 WC squad, Dhoni and R Ashwin's surprise inclusion and more. Will MS Dhoni's midas touch help India break the ICC title drought? See, it is a huge boost for Team India. Having MS Dhoni around with the players which he has led over the period of time and even the youngsters....he has played with them in the IPL over a period of time. His experience will only help Kohli and the lower-order batters, who will have the responsibility to finish games. However, we got to realise that he's not going to be on field and play. His inputs will majorly help Kohli as a captain and the lower-order batters, but the performances will be solely dependent on the players. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's India squad for T20 World Cup announced, MS Dhoni named team mentor; R Ashwin included It is upto Virat and the lower-order batters to get the best out of him. They can know what he was thinking in those periods when he was under pressure and got the decisions right as captain and batsman. It is, thus, entirely upto them on how to maximise his presence to the best of their abilities. When Dhoni was fading away, not many grabbed the opportunity of becoming a finisher, except Hardik Pandya. Hence, let's see how he can help the rest, especially in the knockouts. We have seen in recent past how India have struggled in semi-finals and finals. That is where his experience will help them the most, psychologically. ALSO READ | Twitterati hilariously trolls Gautam Gambhir after MS Dhoni named Team India's mentor for T20 World Cup 'R Ashwin has been branded as a Test specialist which isn't right' On Ashwin's inclusion: I think we all have branded Ashwin as a Test specialist. We shouldn't have done that. I can understand why he was getting picked. If you see the players who had replaced him, they were slightly better in other two departments, i.e. batting and fielding. He remains far better than all the other off-spinners in the country. But if you look at the others who replaced him, they were better in fielding and batting capacity. Overall, I think it is a great replacement. Ashwin's record in T20 World Cup is exceptional (with 20 wickets in 15 innings in T20 WCs). Although he hasn't played limited-overs since 2017, he will still have the hunger and eagerness to prove that he belongs in this format. He has all the variations in his armoury to perform successfully and consistently. I have full faith on him to shine bright whenever given a chance in the World Cup. For the unversed, India will commence their campaign in the T20 WC on October 24, versus Pakistan. They are in Group 2, with the Men in Green, New Zealand, Afghanistan along with two other teams who will join from the qualifiers.

EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary

India and England will square off with each other for the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester on Friday (September 10). After a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp on Thursday, the fate of the final Test remained a mystery before all the Indian players tested negative in subsequent PCR results. Thus, the series decider is now set to get underway at the picturesque Old Trafford, in Manchester.&nbsp;

With India being ahead, 2-1, Virat Kohli &amp; Co. will go into the series finale with an edge over England. India will aim for a series triumph, which will be their first on English soil after 2007. Given that India have defeated Australia in their own backyard twice since 2018, a series win in England will further boost their confidence and consolidate their dominant position in Tests in recent times.

STATS

India have plenty to play for in the fifth Test. So far, both India and England have met each other on nine occasions at Old Trafford, Manchester in the purest format. To India's dismay, they are yet to win a Test at the venue as they trail England 0-4 (with 5 ending in a draw).

PITCH CONDITIONS

The pitch is expected to assist the pacers. With not a lot of sunshine over the weekend, the surface won't be conducive to spinners, as was the case in the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London. Hence, India might be tempted to go ahead with the same combination, i.e. 4 pacers and a sole spinner. R Ashwin's inclusion, thus, seems unlikely.&nbsp;

WEATHER REPORT

The weather wasn't great in the run-up to the final Test. However, the sun was out and shining bright on Wednesday (September 8). According to AccuWeather, a morning shower is expected on the opening day, which will be followed by period of sunshine before another shower in the afternoon. Nonetheless, the cricket fans will get to see some action as it isn't likely to cause lengthy periods of delay.

The weather for Saturday (Day 2) isn't very encouraging at the moment. It is forecast to be cloudy with spells of shower. Day 3 and 4, i.e. often regarded as the moving days in a Test match, are expected to offer good cricketing conditions but the final day might have couple of showers throughout the day, which was also witnessed during the series opener.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-united-lancashire-crickets-interaction-wins-the-internet-as-manchester-is-buzzing-with-virat-kohli-cristiano-ronaldos-presence-411980">Man United-Lancashire Cricket's interaction wins the internet as Manchester is buzzing with Virat Kohli-Cristiano Ronaldo's presence</a>

PREDICTED XI:&nbsp;

India's likely XI:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

England's likely XI:&nbsp;Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India and England will square off with each other for the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester on Friday (September 10). After a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp on Thursday, the fate of the final Test remained a mystery before all the Indian players tested negative in subsequent PCR results.

India and England will square off with each other for the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester on Friday (September 10). After a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp on Thursday, the fate of the final Test remained a mystery before all the Indian players tested negative in subsequent PCR results. Thus, the series decider is now set to get underway at the picturesque Old Trafford, in Manchester. With India being ahead, 2-1, Virat Kohli & Co. will go into the series finale with an edge over England. India will aim for a series triumph, which will be their first on English soil after 2007. Given that India have defeated Australia in their own backyard twice since 2018, a series win in England will further boost their confidence and consolidate their dominant position in Tests in recent times. STATS India have plenty to play for in the fifth Test. So far, both India and England have met each other on nine occasions at Old Trafford, Manchester in the purest format. To India's dismay, they are yet to win a Test at the venue as they trail England 0-4 (with 5 ending in a draw). PITCH CONDITIONS The pitch is expected to assist the pacers. With not a lot of sunshine over the weekend, the surface won't be conducive to spinners, as was the case in the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London. Hence, India might be tempted to go ahead with the same combination, i.e. 4 pacers and a sole spinner. R Ashwin's inclusion, thus, seems unlikely. WEATHER REPORT The weather wasn't great in the run-up to the final Test. However, the sun was out and shining bright on Wednesday (September 8). According to AccuWeather, a morning shower is expected on the opening day, which will be followed by period of sunshine before another shower in the afternoon. Nonetheless, the cricket fans will get to see some action as it isn't likely to cause lengthy periods of delay. The weather for Saturday (Day 2) isn't very encouraging at the moment. It is forecast to be cloudy with spells of shower. Day 3 and 4, i.e. often regarded as the moving days in a Test match, are expected to offer good cricketing conditions but the final day might have couple of showers throughout the day, which was also witnessed during the series opener. ALSO READ | Man United-Lancashire Cricket's interaction wins the internet as Manchester is buzzing with Virat Kohli-Cristiano Ronaldo's presence PREDICTED XI: India's likely XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah England's likely XI: Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India vs England 2021, 5th Test: Pitch conditions at Old Trafford, Manchester weather report and stats

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday). With Virat Kohli-led India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, after a splendid 157-run win in the penultimate encounter, they will start as favourites but England's ability to bounce back cannot be ruled out as well.

The fifth and final Test was under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out from the Indian camp on Thursday (September 9). India's physio&nbsp;Vijay Parmar, as per ESPNCricinfo, had tested positive which led to the visitors' cancelling their training session and media commitments. However, with Indian players' subsequent PCR tests turning out to be negative, the fifth Test is now underway and promises to provide another blockbuster contest between two top sides.

<h2>Here's all you need to know about the fifth Test between India and England:</h2>

<h2>Where will England vs India 5th Test match be played?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be played at Old Trafford, in Manchester.

<h2>When will England vs India 5th Test match be played?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be played between September 10&nbsp;to September 14.

<h2>What time will England vs India 5th Test match begin?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will begin at 3:30 PM IST.

<h2>Which TV channels will broadcast England vs India 5th Test match?</h2>

The England vs India 5th Test match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network.

<h2>Where to watch live streaming of England vs India 5th Test match?</h2>

The live streaming for England vs India 5th Test match will be available on Sony Liv.

For the unversed, India have never won a Test at the venue. Hence, if they win their first-ever game at Old Trafford, Manchester, Kohli &amp; Co. will create history and also win India its first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday).

India and England will lock horns with each other for one final time in the 2021 English summer as the fifth and final Test commences from September 10 (Friday). With Virat Kohli-led India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, after a splendid 157-run win in the penultimate encounter, they will start as favourites but England's ability to bounce back cannot be ruled out as well. The fifth and final Test was under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out from the Indian camp on Thursday (September 9). India's physio Vijay Parmar, as per ESPNCricinfo, had tested positive which led to the visitors' cancelling their training session and media commitments. However, with Indian players' subsequent PCR tests turning out to be negative, the fifth Test is now underway and promises to provide another blockbuster contest between two top sides. Here's all you need to know about the fifth Test between India and England: Where will England vs India 5th Test match be played? The England vs India 5th Test match will be played at Old Trafford, in Manchester. When will England vs India 5th Test match be played? The England vs India 5th Test match will be played between September 10 to September 14. What time will England vs India 5th Test match begin? The England vs India 5th Test match will begin at 3:30 PM IST. Which TV channels will broadcast England vs India 5th Test match? The England vs India 5th Test match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network. Where to watch live streaming of England vs India 5th Test match? The live streaming for England vs India 5th Test match will be available on Sony Liv. For the unversed, India have never won a Test at the venue. Hence, if they win their first-ever game at Old Trafford, Manchester, Kohli & Co. will create history and also win India its first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

India vs England 2021, 5th Test, Live Streaming: When and where to watch IND vs ENG?

Two of the biggest sports superstars of the modern- era are Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo. For the unversed, both Kohli and Ronaldo are at Manchester&nbsp;as the city cannot keep calm and is buzzing with the presence of the GOATs of their respective games.&nbsp;

To remind one and all, Ronaldo is at Manchester as he is gearing up for his second term to begin with Manchester United (in their clash versus Newcastle United on September 11) after he joined his former club in a splendid piece of summer transfer. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India will play England in the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from September 10 (Friday).

Interestingly, both the grounds are also situated close to each other, sending fans into a frenzy.&nbsp;On Thursday (September 8),&nbsp;Lancashire Cricket's official Twitter handle teased fans and asked them if they are interested to see a joint training session involving both Kohli and Ronaldo at the Old Trafford, Manchester. To this, Man United replied by saying, "One city, two GOATs"

Here's their fun interaction which broke the internet -

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One city, two GOATs
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1435898429452992514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo joined the Red Devils after he showed his willingness to move out from Juventus, despite less than 12 months of his contract still remaining with the Italian club. He was on cards to get on board with Manchester City, United's rival, before the talks fell flat at the last moment and his former club joined the negotiations to rope him for a two-year contract. He is likely to make his second debut on September 11 (Saturday) during Man Utd's clash versus Newcastle United. If that happens, the noise that will be generated by his return for the Red Devils would surely be heard on the cricket ground, during Day 2 of the India-England Test.

Two of the biggest sports superstars of the modern- era are Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo. For the unversed, both Kohli and Ronaldo are at Manchester as the city cannot keep calm and is buzzing with the presence of the GOATs of their respective games.

Two of the biggest sports superstars of the modern- era are Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo. For the unversed, both Kohli and Ronaldo are at Manchester as the city cannot keep calm and is buzzing with the presence of the GOATs of their respective games. To remind one and all, Ronaldo is at Manchester as he is gearing up for his second term to begin with Manchester United (in their clash versus Newcastle United on September 11) after he joined his former club in a splendid piece of summer transfer. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India will play England in the fifth and final Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from September 10 (Friday). Interestingly, both the grounds are also situated close to each other, sending fans into a frenzy. On Thursday (September 8), Lancashire Cricket's official Twitter handle teased fans and asked them if they are interested to see a joint training session involving both Kohli and Ronaldo at the Old Trafford, Manchester. To this, Man United replied by saying, "One city, two GOATs" Here's their fun interaction which broke the internet - One city, two GOATs — Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 9, 2021 × Ronaldo joined the Red Devils after he showed his willingness to move out from Juventus, despite less than 12 months of his contract still remaining with the Italian club. He was on cards to get on board with Manchester City, United's rival, before the talks fell flat at the last moment and his former club joined the negotiations to rope him for a two-year contract. He is likely to make his second debut on September 11 (Saturday) during Man Utd's clash versus Newcastle United. If that happens, the noise that will be generated by his return for the Red Devils would surely be heard on the cricket ground, during Day 2 of the India-England Test.

Man United-Lancashire Cricket's interaction wins the internet as Manchester is buzzing with Virat Kohli-Cristiano Ronaldo's presence

India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup was finally announced on September 8. The Men in Blue, under the leadership of Virat Kohli, will kick off the campaign by taking on arch-rivals Pakistan.

Three big questions after MS Dhoni's appointment as mentor of Indian team for T20 World Cup

Team India players have tested negative in the PCR results and the fifth and final Test versus England will now go ahead as planned. On Thursday (September 9), the series decider came under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

As per ESPNCricinfo, India's physio&nbsp;Yogesh Parmar had tested positive, which forced the Indian team to cancel the training session and also media commitments on Thursday. Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Indian team is already short of its support staff, with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar being ruled out of the final Test, in Old Trafford, Manchester, following positive results during The Oval Test, London.&nbsp;

As for Parmar, he had taken over after lead physio Nitin Patel was forced to self-isolation during the fourth and penultimate&nbsp;after being identified as a close contact of Shastri.&nbsp;

India will, thus, go into the fifth and final Test as favourites with an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series, following their 157-run win at The Oval, London. The visitors also have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

Team India players have tested negative in the PCR results and the fifth and final Test versus England will now go ahead as planned. On Thursday (September 9), the series decider came under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp.

Team India players have tested negative in the PCR results and the fifth and final Test versus England will now go ahead as planned. On Thursday (September 9), the series decider came under the scanner after a Covid case emerged out in the Indian camp. As per ESPNCricinfo, India's physio Yogesh Parmar had tested positive, which forced the Indian team to cancel the training session and also media commitments on Thursday. Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results. For the unversed, Indian team is already short of its support staff, with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar being ruled out of the final Test, in Old Trafford, Manchester, following positive results during The Oval Test, London. As for Parmar, he had taken over after lead physio Nitin Patel was forced to self-isolation during the fourth and penultimate after being identified as a close contact of Shastri. India will, thus, go into the fifth and final Test as favourites with an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series, following their 157-run win at The Oval, London. The visitors also have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007.

Team India players test negative in PCR results, fifth Test versus England gets green signal

On Wednesday (September 8), BCCI announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 17. While the squad had some surprise omissions and additions, the inclusion of MS Dhoni as India's mentor send the country's cricket fans into a frenzy.

Dhoni, who retired from the gentlemen's game at the international level on August 15, 2020, has agreed to be Kohli &amp; Co.'s mentor only for the showpiece event. Given that it was Dhoni who led India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title, in 2007, and also guided them to&nbsp;their last ICC title (in 2013 Champions Trophy), the 40-year-old's presence, tactical mind and calmness will be essential for the Men in Blue in the upcoming marquee tournament.&nbsp;

After Dhoni's name was announced as the mentor, Gautam Gambhir started trending on the social media platform Twitter. For the unversed, Gambhir has time and again mentioned how he was dropped from the national side, under Dhoni, and has indirectly&nbsp;also taken shots for not getting as much credit for his match-winning 97 in the 2011 World Cup final, with Dhoni's 91* winning earning more accolades.&nbsp;

While Gambhir has maintained that he has always managed a cordial relation with Dhoni, a section of the Twitter fans hilariously trolled him after the former Indian captain was named as Kohli &amp; Co.'s mentor. Here are some of the reactions -

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Ms dhoni to Gg:-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gautamgambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gautamgambhir</a> <a href="https://t.co/sJpE1RJfcN">pic.twitter.com/sJpE1RJfcN</a>
— MUKESH GURJAR (@immukeshgujjar) <a href="https://twitter.com/immukeshgujjar/status/1435783371225923584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir to his son after reading <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> name in tv as a mentor for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gautamgambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gautamgambhir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vtc9PPDlC9">pic.twitter.com/Vtc9PPDlC9</a>
— H.B.D.S (@hariballabhdutt) <a href="https://twitter.com/hariballabhdutt/status/1435676283434725377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GautamGambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GautamGambhir</a> : <a href="https://t.co/rDsVvu6a1r">pic.twitter.com/rDsVvu6a1r</a>
— CS Vineeta Singh (@biharigurl) <a href="https://twitter.com/biharigurl/status/1435651810887286787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GautamGambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GautamGambhir</a> after comeback of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/raBrLyF03t">pic.twitter.com/raBrLyF03t</a>
— Rocket Singh 🚀 #Loki (@DegreeWaleBabu) <a href="https://twitter.com/DegreeWaleBabu/status/1435676178950463488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gautamgambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gautamgambhir</a> today : <a href="https://t.co/hzGICiW6s8">pic.twitter.com/hzGICiW6s8</a>
— Rohit (@dBigDangTheory) <a href="https://twitter.com/dBigDangTheory/status/1435690699115008001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gautamgambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gautamgambhir</a> 
Gautam gambir react like that <a href="https://t.co/8O3qaJHHIN">pic.twitter.com/8O3qaJHHIN</a>
— sandip.sharp&amp;growthmind.com (@basfore2000) <a href="https://twitter.com/basfore2000/status/1435780888919351296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Gautam gambhir right now seeing dhoni as the mentor.. 
MS Dhoni Mentor <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gautamgambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gautamgambhir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jayshah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jayshah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviShastri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviShastri</a> <a href="https://t.co/VPgs0XGvrT">pic.twitter.com/VPgs0XGvrT</a>
— Pawan Kewat (@pwnkewat) <a href="https://twitter.com/pwnkewat/status/1435671875770667009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Dhoni's presence will surely add more value to the Men in Blue's squad for the upcoming ICC event. The former Indian captain has played all T20 WC matches for India in the previous six editions. This time around, his role will be different and the fans cannot wait to see him back in the Indian dressing room.&nbsp;

Among the notable omissions in India's squad, the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Shikhar Dhawan, Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, etc. missed out whereas R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Rahul Chahar, Varun Chakravarthy and Ishan Kishan managed to seal a spot for themselves.&nbsp;

India's squad:&nbsp;Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Chahar, Varun Chakravarthy

Reserves: Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur

On Wednesday (September 8), BCCI announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 17. While the squad had some surprise omissions and additions, the inclusion of MS Dhoni as India's mentor send the country's cricket fans into a frenzy.

On Wednesday (September 8), BCCI announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 17. While the squad had some surprise omissions and additions, the inclusion of MS Dhoni as India's mentor send the country's cricket fans into a frenzy. Dhoni, who retired from the gentlemen's game at the international level on August 15, 2020, has agreed to be Kohli & Co.'s mentor only for the showpiece event. Given that it was Dhoni who led India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title, in 2007, and also guided them to their last ICC title (in 2013 Champions Trophy), the 40-year-old's presence, tactical mind and calmness will be essential for the Men in Blue in the upcoming marquee tournament. After Dhoni's name was announced as the mentor, Gautam Gambhir started trending on the social media platform Twitter. For the unversed, Gambhir has time and again mentioned how he was dropped from the national side, under Dhoni, and has indirectly also taken shots for not getting as much credit for his match-winning 97 in the 2011 World Cup final, with Dhoni's 91* winning earning more accolades. While Gambhir has maintained that he has always managed a cordial relation with Dhoni, a section of the Twitter fans hilariously trolled him after the former Indian captain was named as Kohli & Co.'s mentor. Here are some of the reactions - Ms dhoni to Gg:-#gautamgambhir pic.twitter.com/sJpE1RJfcN — MUKESH GURJAR (@immukeshgujjar) September 9, 2021 × Gautam Gambhir to his son after reading #MSDhoni name in tv as a mentor for #T20WorldCup #gautamgambhir pic.twitter.com/Vtc9PPDlC9 — H.B.D.S (@hariballabhdutt) September 8, 2021 × Meanwhile #GautamGambhir : pic.twitter.com/rDsVvu6a1r — CS Vineeta Singh (@biharigurl) September 8, 2021 × #GautamGambhir after comeback of #Dhoni in #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/raBrLyF03t — Rocket Singh 🚀 #Loki (@DegreeWaleBabu) September 8, 2021 × #gautamgambhir today : pic.twitter.com/hzGICiW6s8 — Rohit (@dBigDangTheory) September 8, 2021 × #gautamgambhir Gautam gambir react like that pic.twitter.com/8O3qaJHHIN — sandip.sharp&growthmind.com (@basfore2000) September 9, 2021 × Gautam gambhir right now seeing dhoni as the mentor.. MS Dhoni Mentor #Dhoni #gautamgambhir #jayshah #RaviShastri pic.twitter.com/VPgs0XGvrT — Pawan Kewat (@pwnkewat) September 8, 2021 × Dhoni's presence will surely add more value to the Men in Blue's squad for the upcoming ICC event. The former Indian captain has played all T20 WC matches for India in the previous six editions. This time around, his role will be different and the fans cannot wait to see him back in the Indian dressing room. Among the notable omissions in India's squad, the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Shikhar Dhawan, Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, etc. missed out whereas R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Rahul Chahar, Varun Chakravarthy and Ishan Kishan managed to seal a spot for themselves. India's squad: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Chahar, Varun Chakravarthy Reserves: Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur

Twitterati hilariously trolls Gautam Gambhir after MS Dhoni named Team India's mentor for T20 World Cup

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