New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand's two most experienced batters – Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor – guided the Kiwis to their first ICC trophy since 2000.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-defeat-india-by-8-wickets-to-win-icc-world-test-championship-393493" hreflang="en">New Zealand defeat India by 8 wickets to win ICC World Test Championship</a>

However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli feels that the Test format cannot be fully utilised through a one-off match, either it is a series or the final of the World Test Championship final.&nbsp;

"I am not in absolute agreement of deciding the best Test side in the world over the course of one game. If it is a Test series, it has to be a test of character over three Tests - which team has the ability to come back in the series, or totally blow away the other team. It can't just be pressure applied over two days of good cricket and then you suddenly you are not a good Test side anymore. I don't believe in it," Kohli said after India's eight-wicket loss in Southampton to New Zealand.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri pitched the idea of a three-match series. Several former India players also supported Shastri's idea. On the eve of the match, skipper Kohli said that the team will take it as another Test match and that the outcome won't carry too much significance.&nbsp;

"It has to be a hard grind and something that definitely needs to be worked around in the future. "At the end of three matches, where there's effort, there's ups and downs, there's situations changing during the course of the series, a chance to rectify the things you have done in the first game, and then really see who is the better side over the course of a three-match series or something, will be a good measure of how things really are," Kohli added.

"So we are not too bothered by this result because we understand as a Test side what we have done over the last 3-4 years, not just over the last 18 months. So this is not a measure of who we are as a team [with] the ability and the potential we have had for so many years now."

In the past few Test series, Team India lost the opening Test match only to stage a comeback and win the series.&nbsp;

According to Kohli, worthy winners can be decided with two more Tests instead of a one-off match.&nbsp;

"Absolutely. If you saw the way the game went, with whatever time we got on the field, why wouldn't you want to see two more Tests of the same teams battling it out and, eventually, being the worthy winners of the World Test Championship? Historically all the great series that you've seen in Test cricket, you remember them over a period of three matches or five matches perhaps, with two teams going against each other and those series become memorable," the India captain pointed out.

"Absolutely. If you saw the way the game went, with whatever time we got on the field, why wouldn't you want to see two more Tests of the same teams battling it out and, eventually, being the worthy winners of the World Test Championship? Historically all the great series that you've seen in Test cricket, you remember them over a period of three matches or five matches perhaps, with two teams going against each other and those series become memorable," the India captain pointed out.

New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand's two most experienced batters – Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor – guided the Kiwis to their first ICC trophy since 2000. ALSO READ: New Zealand defeat India by 8 wickets to win ICC World Test Championship However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli feels that the Test format cannot be fully utilised through a one-off match, either it is a series or the final of the World Test Championship final. "I am not in absolute agreement of deciding the best Test side in the world over the course of one game. If it is a Test series, it has to be a test of character over three Tests - which team has the ability to come back in the series, or totally blow away the other team. It can't just be pressure applied over two days of good cricket and then you suddenly you are not a good Test side anymore. I don't believe in it," Kohli said after India's eight-wicket loss in Southampton to New Zealand. Indian head coach Ravi Shastri pitched the idea of a three-match series. Several former India players also supported Shastri's idea. On the eve of the match, skipper Kohli said that the team will take it as another Test match and that the outcome won't carry too much significance. "It has to be a hard grind and something that definitely needs to be worked around in the future. "At the end of three matches, where there's effort, there's ups and downs, there's situations changing during the course of the series, a chance to rectify the things you have done in the first game, and then really see who is the better side over the course of a three-match series or something, will be a good measure of how things really are," Kohli added. "So we are not too bothered by this result because we understand as a Test side what we have done over the last 3-4 years, not just over the last 18 months. So this is not a measure of who we are as a team [with] the ability and the potential we have had for so many years now." In the past few Test series, Team India lost the opening Test match only to stage a comeback and win the series. According to Kohli, worthy winners can be decided with two more Tests instead of a one-off match. "Absolutely. If you saw the way the game went, with whatever time we got on the field, why wouldn't you want to see two more Tests of the same teams battling it out and, eventually, being the worthy winners of the World Test Championship? Historically all the great series that you've seen in Test cricket, you remember them over a period of three matches or five matches perhaps, with two teams going against each other and those series become memorable," the India captain pointed out. "Absolutely. If you saw the way the game went, with whatever time we got on the field, why wouldn't you want to see two more Tests of the same teams battling it out and, eventually, being the worthy winners of the World Test Championship? Historically all the great series that you've seen in Test cricket, you remember them over a period of three matches or five matches perhaps, with two teams going against each other and those series become memorable," the India captain pointed out.

WTC Final- 'We are not too bothered by this result', says Virat Kohli

After losing the World Test Championship Final against New Zealand, Skipper Virat Kohli has suggested that there can be changes in the Test side as they go ahead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-defeat-india-by-8-wickets-to-win-icc-world-test-championship-393493" hreflang="en">New Zealand defeat India by 8 wickets to win ICC World Test Championship</a>

New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand's two most experienced batters – Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor – guided the Kiwis to their first ICC trophy since 2000.

"We will continue to reassess and continue to have conversations around what are the things required to strengthen our side and not follow or fall prey to certain patterns," Kohli said at the post-match virtual press conference.

"We will not wait for a year or so and have to plan. If you see our white-ball team now, we have great depth and guys are ready and confident. The same thing needs to be done with Test cricket.

Cheteshwar Pujara's poor show in the WTC Final has put his position in jeopardy. The Indian Test specialist has failed to show intent and his slow-paced innings has put some pressure on the team's batting lineup.

"You have to reassess and replan and understand what dynamics work for the team and how we can be fearless. Bring in the right people who have right mindset to perform," the skipper added.

"I think evolving with the game and improving yourself with the game is very important and when you have been a top side for few years in a row, you don't want to suddenly drop your standards...

"We will certainly take those decisions and have those conversations and in near future," the skipper looked visibly hurt and in a mood to take some tough calls in near future.

"We definitely need to work out better plans on understanding how to score runs. We have to stay in sync with the momentum of the game and not let the game drift away too much. I don't think there are any technical difficulties as such," he asserted.

"It's more down to game awareness and being more brave in putting bowlers under pressure and not allowing them to bowl in similar areas for longer periods of time unless it is absolutely overcast and ball swinging all over the place like it happened on day 1."

"You can't be too worried about getting out as your bringing the bowler into the game completely. If as a batting unit, we put 300 on the board, it's a different kind of pressure on the opposition with the kind of bowlers we have. Kohli urged his batsmen to take calculated risks and strike a balance between well-timed strokeplay and holding an end.

"The endeavour would be to try and score runs and not worry about getting out in testing conditions. That's the way you can put the opposition under pressure otherwise you are standing there hoping that you don't get out, which you eventually will be because you are not being optimistic enough.

After losing the World Test Championship Final against New Zealand, Skipper Virat Kohli has suggested that there can be changes in the Test side as they go ahead.

After losing the World Test Championship Final against New Zealand, Skipper Virat Kohli has suggested that there can be changes in the Test side as they go ahead. ALSO READ: New Zealand defeat India by 8 wickets to win ICC World Test Championship New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand's two most experienced batters – Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor – guided the Kiwis to their first ICC trophy since 2000. "We will continue to reassess and continue to have conversations around what are the things required to strengthen our side and not follow or fall prey to certain patterns," Kohli said at the post-match virtual press conference. "We will not wait for a year or so and have to plan. If you see our white-ball team now, we have great depth and guys are ready and confident. The same thing needs to be done with Test cricket. Cheteshwar Pujara's poor show in the WTC Final has put his position in jeopardy. The Indian Test specialist has failed to show intent and his slow-paced innings has put some pressure on the team's batting lineup. "You have to reassess and replan and understand what dynamics work for the team and how we can be fearless. Bring in the right people who have right mindset to perform," the skipper added. "I think evolving with the game and improving yourself with the game is very important and when you have been a top side for few years in a row, you don't want to suddenly drop your standards... "We will certainly take those decisions and have those conversations and in near future," the skipper looked visibly hurt and in a mood to take some tough calls in near future. "We definitely need to work out better plans on understanding how to score runs. We have to stay in sync with the momentum of the game and not let the game drift away too much. I don't think there are any technical difficulties as such," he asserted. "It's more down to game awareness and being more brave in putting bowlers under pressure and not allowing them to bowl in similar areas for longer periods of time unless it is absolutely overcast and ball swinging all over the place like it happened on day 1." "You can't be too worried about getting out as your bringing the bowler into the game completely. If as a batting unit, we put 300 on the board, it's a different kind of pressure on the opposition with the kind of bowlers we have. Kohli urged his batsmen to take calculated risks and strike a balance between well-timed strokeplay and holding an end. "The endeavour would be to try and score runs and not worry about getting out in testing conditions. That's the way you can put the opposition under pressure otherwise you are standing there hoping that you don't get out, which you eventually will be because you are not being optimistic enough.

'We will not wait for a year': Virat Kohli hints changes after WTC Final loss

All-rounder Kyle Jamieson proved to be a match-winner for New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Final as the Kiwis defeated India by eight wickets to lift the Mace at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday. <o:p></o:p>

Jamieson picked up a match total of seven wickets including a five-wicket haul in the first innings to help New Zealand win the summit clash against India. <o:p></o:p>

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lavished high praise on Jamieson as he said that his height gives him an added advantage while adding the Indian batters didn’t put him under enough pressure. Kohli further praised Jamieson’s consistency with the red ball while citing his prolific numbers in Test cricket. Notably, Jamieson and Kohli both play for the Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-nice-to-get-one-under-the-belt-says-kane-williamson-after-winning-wtc-final-393590" hreflang="en">'It's nice to get one under the belt', says Kane Williamson after winning WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“He's a very good bowler, similar to many that I've faced in my career so far. His height I think gives him an added advantage. I truly believe that we did not put him under enough pressure. We allowed him to bowl in similar areas for long periods of time and probably didn't work out the areas that we could score against him, and that was probably down to his consistency, as well. For a tall guy like that to not miss his length so often is quality, and his consistency is what made it very difficult for all of us,” Kohli said in the post-match press conference. <o:p></o:p>

“So yeah, nothing drastically different from something that we have faced over the years, but yeah, just his consistency from the height which he bowls at and his accuracy was something that worked in his favour, and he's had a great start to his career and his numbers are what they are because he's very consistent with the ball,” the Indian skipper added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-final-prize-money-how-much-did-new-zealand-and-india-win-393586" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC Final prize money: How much did New Zealand and India win?</a><o:p></o:p>

Jamieson scalped 43 wickets in seven matches for New Zealand in the World Test Championship cycle while also adding valuable runs down the batting order. The tall all-rounder proved to be an X-factor for the Kiwis as they won their first ICC trophy since 2000.<o:p></o:p>

All-rounder Kyle Jamieson proved to be a match-winner for New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Final as the Kiwis defeated India by eight wickets to lift the Mace at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday.

All-rounder Kyle Jamieson proved to be a match-winner for New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Final as the Kiwis defeated India by eight wickets to lift the Mace at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday. Jamieson picked up a match total of seven wickets including a five-wicket haul in the first innings to help New Zealand win the summit clash against India. Indian skipper Virat Kohli lavished high praise on Jamieson as he said that his height gives him an added advantage while adding the Indian batters didn’t put him under enough pressure. Kohli further praised Jamieson’s consistency with the red ball while citing his prolific numbers in Test cricket. Notably, Jamieson and Kohli both play for the Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore. ALSO READ: 'It's nice to get one under the belt', says Kane Williamson after winning WTC Final “He's a very good bowler, similar to many that I've faced in my career so far. His height I think gives him an added advantage. I truly believe that we did not put him under enough pressure. We allowed him to bowl in similar areas for long periods of time and probably didn't work out the areas that we could score against him, and that was probably down to his consistency, as well. For a tall guy like that to not miss his length so often is quality, and his consistency is what made it very difficult for all of us,” Kohli said in the post-match press conference. “So yeah, nothing drastically different from something that we have faced over the years, but yeah, just his consistency from the height which he bowls at and his accuracy was something that worked in his favour, and he's had a great start to his career and his numbers are what they are because he's very consistent with the ball,” the Indian skipper added. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC Final prize money: How much did New Zealand and India win? Jamieson scalped 43 wickets in seven matches for New Zealand in the World Test Championship cycle while also adding valuable runs down the batting order. The tall all-rounder proved to be an X-factor for the Kiwis as they won their first ICC trophy since 2000.

Cricket: 'His height gives him added advantage' - Virat Kohli praises Kyle Jamieson after stellar outing in WTC Final

Team India had an excellent first session on Day 5 of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The BlackCaps, who were in the better position, lost quick wickets and were five down by Lunch.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-length-has-done-the-trick-sanjay-bangar-on-indian-pacer-success-on-day-5-vs-nz-393186" hreflang="en">'Length has done the trick' - Sanjay Bangar on Indian pacer' success</a>

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain lauded skipper Kohli's captaincy and complimented him for bowling changes.&nbsp;

"I thought Virat Kohli had a day as well, good morning. Every bowling change he made (was a good one). To the left-hander Nicholls, we know Ishant bowls well, bowl straight on. He kept Shami on even though he bowled six or seven overs in that session. So, pretty much spot on from India throughout the session. Catching, captaincy, and bowling," Hussain told on Star Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-would-have-picked-bhuvneshwar-kumar-for-wtc-final-opines-sunil-gavaskar-393165" hreflang="en">Cricket: Would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar for WTC Final, opines Sunil Gavaskar</a>

"Sometimes, Virat Kohli does certain things, I call him the tinker man. But today morning, he did things with a lot of purpose. The changes he made were absolutely spot-on. Ishant to the left-handers. And like VVS Laxman said, there was no left-hander for Ashwin. 10 minutes to go to Lunch. BJ Watling in the middle, and he kept Shami on. And immediately Shami gets the wicket.

"He made right changes at the right time," Hussain added.

"Now, India are the favourites even though New Zealand were the favourites half an hour ago, and that is how quickly things change in England. And that is why Virat Kohli's captaincy was spot-on," he signed off.

Team India had an excellent first session on Day 5 of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The BlackCaps, who were in the better position, lost quick wickets and were five down by Lunch.

Team India had an excellent first session on Day 5 of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The BlackCaps, who were in the better position, lost quick wickets and were five down by Lunch. ALSO READ: 'Length has done the trick' - Sanjay Bangar on Indian pacer' success Former England skipper Nasser Hussain lauded skipper Kohli's captaincy and complimented him for bowling changes. "I thought Virat Kohli had a day as well, good morning. Every bowling change he made (was a good one). To the left-hander Nicholls, we know Ishant bowls well, bowl straight on. He kept Shami on even though he bowled six or seven overs in that session. So, pretty much spot on from India throughout the session. Catching, captaincy, and bowling," Hussain told on Star Sports. ALSO READ: Cricket: Would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar for WTC Final, opines Sunil Gavaskar "Sometimes, Virat Kohli does certain things, I call him the tinker man. But today morning, he did things with a lot of purpose. The changes he made were absolutely spot-on. Ishant to the left-handers. And like VVS Laxman said, there was no left-hander for Ashwin. 10 minutes to go to Lunch. BJ Watling in the middle, and he kept Shami on. And immediately Shami gets the wicket. "He made right changes at the right time," Hussain added. "Now, India are the favourites even though New Zealand were the favourites half an hour ago, and that is how quickly things change in England. And that is why Virat Kohli's captaincy was spot-on," he signed off.

WTC Final - 'He did things with lot of purpose': Nasser Hussain lauds Virat Kohli's captaincy

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar and former English captain Nasser Hussain gave their reactions after Virat Kohli was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson in the second innings of the World Test Championship final at Rose Bowl.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-bj-watling-wins-hearts-across-social-media-393435" hreflang="en">WTC Final- Virat Kohli's gesture towards BJ Watling wins hearts across social media</a>

Kohli and Pujara walked out to bat on the Day 6 of the ultimate Test, however, Team India suffered a quick blow as skipper Kohli found a thin edge off Kyle Jamieson's delivery and gave an easy catch to Kiwi wicketkeeper BJ Watling.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-they-know-him-sachin-tendulkar-talks-about-rahul-dravid-the-coach-393453" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'They know him': Sachin Tendulkar talks about Rahul Dravid, the coach</a>

After being dismissed for 13 runs, Hussain and Gavaskar reacted to his dismissal and said that the shot played by Virat brought back memories of India’s 2014 tour to England.

“Little bit more like 2014 and not the one of 2018. That was the sort of line that James Anderson troubled him with in 2014. He left those last time around when he played in England,” Hussain said on commentary.

Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar felt that the lack of Kohli's foot movement cost him the wicket.&nbsp;

“His backfoot didn’t move and he committed himself to the shot,” Gavaskar said.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar and former English captain Nasser Hussain gave their reactions after Virat Kohli was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson in the second innings of the World Test Championship final at Rose Bowl.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar and former English captain Nasser Hussain gave their reactions after Virat Kohli was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson in the second innings of the World Test Championship final at Rose Bowl. ALSO READ: WTC Final- Virat Kohli's gesture towards BJ Watling wins hearts across social media Kohli and Pujara walked out to bat on the Day 6 of the ultimate Test, however, Team India suffered a quick blow as skipper Kohli found a thin edge off Kyle Jamieson's delivery and gave an easy catch to Kiwi wicketkeeper BJ Watling. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'They know him': Sachin Tendulkar talks about Rahul Dravid, the coach After being dismissed for 13 runs, Hussain and Gavaskar reacted to his dismissal and said that the shot played by Virat brought back memories of India’s 2014 tour to England. “Little bit more like 2014 and not the one of 2018. That was the sort of line that James Anderson troubled him with in 2014. He left those last time around when he played in England,” Hussain said on commentary. Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar felt that the lack of Kohli's foot movement cost him the wicket. “His backfoot didn’t move and he committed himself to the shot,” Gavaskar said.

'His backfoot didn’t move': Sunil Gavaskar and Nasser Hussain react to Kohli's dismissal in WTC Final

Indian skipper Virat Kohli's heartwarming gesture towards New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has won several hearts across the internet. Skipper Kohli was seen shaking hands with Watling before kicking off Day 6 of the World Test Championship final at Rose Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;

Watling is playing the last match of his international career and being it the final day of the game Kohli was seen congratulating the BlackCaps wicket-keeper.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's gesture received a lot of praises from several netizens on Twitter.&nbsp;

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Nice gesture from Indian captain Virat Kohli, having few words to Watling who is playing his final day in International career. <a href="https://t.co/KE8xMUQpfg">pic.twitter.com/KE8xMUQpfg</a>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1407637666586193920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Wonderful sportsmanship by the no.4 best test batsman Virat Kohli as he respects the hole career of BJ Watling by the way mentioned 👇 <a href="https://t.co/L0z5ry8m7u">pic.twitter.com/L0z5ry8m7u</a>
— TRAGIC GUY (@SABYASA03555819) <a href="https://twitter.com/SABYASA03555819/status/1407637909608357888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Wonderful sportsmanship spirit by Virat Kohli, he's congratulating BJ Watling on a fantastic career. <a href="https://t.co/5QrlPoyax2">pic.twitter.com/5QrlPoyax2</a>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1407632125940027395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Watling will bid adieu to his international career after being New Zealand’s second most capped Test wicketkeeper after Adam Parore. He featured in 75 Tests for the BlackCaps and has scored 3790 runs (so far) at an average of 37.52.&nbsp;

Earlier, Tim Southee went past Ricky Ponting in the elite list of sixes-hitters in Test cricket.&nbsp;

The pacer smashed two sixes and scored a crucial 46-ball 30 runs. With these maximums, Tim Southee has 75 sixes in 79 Test matches and is now on the 15th spot on the overall list. He overtook former Aussie skipper Ricky Ponting and just three sixes away from going past MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli's heartwarming gesture towards New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has won several hearts across the internet. Skipper Kohli was seen shaking hands with Watling before kicking off Day 6 of the World Test Championship final at Rose Bowl in Southampton.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli's heartwarming gesture towards New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has won several hearts across the internet. Skipper Kohli was seen shaking hands with Watling before kicking off Day 6 of the World Test Championship final at Rose Bowl in Southampton. Watling is playing the last match of his international career and being it the final day of the game Kohli was seen congratulating the BlackCaps wicket-keeper. Virat Kohli's gesture received a lot of praises from several netizens on Twitter. Nice gesture from Indian captain Virat Kohli, having few words to Watling who is playing his final day in International career. pic.twitter.com/KE8xMUQpfg — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 23, 2021 × Wonderful sportsmanship by the no.4 best test batsman Virat Kohli as he respects the hole career of BJ Watling by the way mentioned 👇 pic.twitter.com/L0z5ry8m7u — TRAGIC GUY (@SABYASA03555819) June 23, 2021 × Wonderful sportsmanship spirit by Virat Kohli, he's congratulating BJ Watling on a fantastic career. pic.twitter.com/5QrlPoyax2 — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 23, 2021 × Watling will bid adieu to his international career after being New Zealand’s second most capped Test wicketkeeper after Adam Parore. He featured in 75 Tests for the BlackCaps and has scored 3790 runs (so far) at an average of 37.52. Earlier, Tim Southee went past Ricky Ponting in the elite list of sixes-hitters in Test cricket. The pacer smashed two sixes and scored a crucial 46-ball 30 runs. With these maximums, Tim Southee has 75 sixes in 79 Test matches and is now on the 15th spot on the overall list. He overtook former Aussie skipper Ricky Ponting and just three sixes away from going past MS Dhoni.

WTC Final- Virat Kohli's gesture towards BJ Watling wins hearts across social media

Day three of the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand belonged to Kyle Jamieson. The Kiwi all-rounder scalped a five-wicket haul to limit India to a modest first-innings score of 217, breaking a few records on the way to a second fifer against India in Tests. One of his valued wickets was captain Virat Kohli and Kyle Jamieson shared his experience on the dismissal.&nbsp;

Jamieson was happy to dismiss Virat Kohli during the World Test Championship Final in Southampton. The New Zealand pacer was satisfied to send the Indian skipper back to the pavilion at the beginning of Day 3.&nbsp;

Addressing the media after the game, Kyle Jamieson said: “I think he’s a world-class batter, and those guys don’t tend to have too many chinks in their armors. Certainly, pleasing to get him. Like I said before, he’s obviously a massive part of their line-up, and to get him early certainly set things up nicely for us. Just was pleasing in terms of myself being able to wobble the ball and try and keep him in check a little bit, and to get that wicket was pleasing and just a great start for our game."

The 26-year-old talked about the essential change in the system, as Jamieson received rich benefits for the ideal change.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kyle-jamieson-surpasses-r-ashwin-nathan-lyon-with-most-five-wicket-hauls-in-world-test-championship-392787" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kyle Jamieson surpasses R Ashwin, Nathan Lyon with most five-wicket hauls in World Test Championship</a>

“It is certainly not my natural length. Naturally, as a taller guy, you are going to be back of a length. While I felt good at times yesterday, I also felt a little bit tentative. My body probably sort of brought my lengths back. Today I felt a lot freer and was able to bring that length fuller. Tried to change my strategy a little bit in terms of trying to get it fuller and getting it to wobble a little bit. That paid off” - he added.&nbsp;

Jamieson was feeling bullish after Day 3, asserting the save day could make things fascinating. The tall pacer glanced back at the game, conceding New Zealand is in an agreeable position going ahead.&nbsp;

“Yeah, I haven’t seen the forecast a huge amount. Obviously, we’ve got a little bit of time up our sleeve with the sixth day. Be interesting to see, I guess, how that plays out. I guess where we’re sitting now it would be pretty comfortable. I think if you said to us at the start of the game that we can get them for low 200s and then to be 100 for two, we’d be pretty happy. We’ll have to see how the next day or so pans out but we’re certainly in a position that we’d like to be in terms of moving the game forward” - he said.

Tom Latham and Devon Conway arranged the precarious beginning stage of the innings with some gutsy batting as the two openers got their heads down and saw off the test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sanjay-manjrekar-opines-on-rules-over-bad-light-says-it-can-be-bit-more-reasonable-392788" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar opines on rules over bad light, says it can be 'bit more reasonable'</a>

“From my short time in the team, some of the best batting I've seen. I think the way Tom and Dev approached that, the ball was going to move around, we knew that, and the conditions were probably going to be in the bowlers' favor. The way they approached that pretty tricky period was outstanding” - he said.&nbsp;

With eight wickets close by, New Zealand trail India by 116 runs. Looking forward, Kyle Jamieson wouldn't put a number on a sound lead, repeating the New Zealand bowlers would be content with whatever they were given.&nbsp;

“Well, it’s probably a little bit early to say what sort of lead. I think you’re always hoping for more of a lead or as much of a lead as you can get. I think obviously the key moving forward is to try and build on that, and if we can get ahead, great. If we can get 50, 100, 150, great. I think as a bowling unit we’ll take whatever we can get really” - he signed off.

Day three of the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand belonged to Kyle Jamieson. The Kiwi all-rounder scalped a five-wicket haul to limit India to a modest first-innings score of 217, breaking a few records on the way to a second fifer against India in Tests.

Day three of the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand belonged to Kyle Jamieson. The Kiwi all-rounder scalped a five-wicket haul to limit India to a modest first-innings score of 217, breaking a few records on the way to a second fifer against India in Tests. One of his valued wickets was captain Virat Kohli and Kyle Jamieson shared his experience on the dismissal. Jamieson was happy to dismiss Virat Kohli during the World Test Championship Final in Southampton. The New Zealand pacer was satisfied to send the Indian skipper back to the pavilion at the beginning of Day 3. Addressing the media after the game, Kyle Jamieson said: “I think he’s a world-class batter, and those guys don’t tend to have too many chinks in their armors. Certainly, pleasing to get him. Like I said before, he’s obviously a massive part of their line-up, and to get him early certainly set things up nicely for us. Just was pleasing in terms of myself being able to wobble the ball and try and keep him in check a little bit, and to get that wicket was pleasing and just a great start for our game." The 26-year-old talked about the essential change in the system, as Jamieson received rich benefits for the ideal change. ALSO READ: Cricket: Kyle Jamieson surpasses R Ashwin, Nathan Lyon with most five-wicket hauls in World Test Championship “It is certainly not my natural length. Naturally, as a taller guy, you are going to be back of a length. While I felt good at times yesterday, I also felt a little bit tentative. My body probably sort of brought my lengths back. Today I felt a lot freer and was able to bring that length fuller. Tried to change my strategy a little bit in terms of trying to get it fuller and getting it to wobble a little bit. That paid off” - he added. Jamieson was feeling bullish after Day 3, asserting the save day could make things fascinating. The tall pacer glanced back at the game, conceding New Zealand is in an agreeable position going ahead. “Yeah, I haven’t seen the forecast a huge amount. Obviously, we’ve got a little bit of time up our sleeve with the sixth day. Be interesting to see, I guess, how that plays out. I guess where we’re sitting now it would be pretty comfortable. I think if you said to us at the start of the game that we can get them for low 200s and then to be 100 for two, we’d be pretty happy. We’ll have to see how the next day or so pans out but we’re certainly in a position that we’d like to be in terms of moving the game forward” - he said. Tom Latham and Devon Conway arranged the precarious beginning stage of the innings with some gutsy batting as the two openers got their heads down and saw off the test. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar opines on rules over bad light, says it can be 'bit more reasonable' “From my short time in the team, some of the best batting I've seen. I think the way Tom and Dev approached that, the ball was going to move around, we knew that, and the conditions were probably going to be in the bowlers' favor. The way they approached that pretty tricky period was outstanding” - he said. With eight wickets close by, New Zealand trail India by 116 runs. Looking forward, Kyle Jamieson wouldn't put a number on a sound lead, repeating the New Zealand bowlers would be content with whatever they were given. “Well, it’s probably a little bit early to say what sort of lead. I think you’re always hoping for more of a lead or as much of a lead as you can get. I think obviously the key moving forward is to try and build on that, and if we can get ahead, great. If we can get 50, 100, 150, great. I think as a bowling unit we’ll take whatever we can get really” - he signed off.

WTC Final: Pleased to dismiss Virat Kohli, he's world-class batsman, says Kyle Jamieson

World Test Championship final finally kicked off on Day 2 after the first Day was abandoned without play due to a heavy downpour. However, the toss was underway on the second day and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and decided to field first as he felt that the overcast conditions will favour their star seamers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-very-disappointed-shane-warne-slams-new-zealand-for-not-including-spinner-392632" hreflang="en">WTC Final- 'Very disappointed': Shane Warne slams New Zealand for not including spinner</a>

Despite conditions being a test for the batsman, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a strong start to the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

The duo put up 62 runs on the stand for the opening wicket before Sharma got dismissed on 34, whereas, Gill got dismissed on 28 by Jamieson and Wagner respectively.&nbsp;

The first hour of the match went in India's favour, but two wickets of Sharma and Gill brought New Zealand back in the game by the end of the first session.&nbsp;

Cheteshwar Pujara's resistance against Kiwi pacers did not last long as the batsman departed&nbsp;at 8 runs after being lbw by Trent Boult.&nbsp;

However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane held the team intact as they put on an unbeaten 58-run stand. Team India were 146/3 before stumps was called due to poor light.&nbsp;

Huge halts due to bad lights and poor weather conditions forced the match day to be cut short midway. However, Team India have batted really well after losing the toss in bowler-friendly conditions.&nbsp;

World Test Championship final finally kicked off on Day 2 after the first Day was abandoned without play due to a heavy downpour. However, the toss was underway on the second day and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and decided to field first as he felt that the overcast conditions will favour their star seamers.

World Test Championship final finally kicked off on Day 2 after the first Day was abandoned without play due to a heavy downpour. However, the toss was underway on the second day and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and decided to field first as he felt that the overcast conditions will favour their star seamers. ALSO READ: WTC Final- 'Very disappointed': Shane Warne slams New Zealand for not including spinner Despite conditions being a test for the batsman, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a strong start to the Men in Blue. The duo put up 62 runs on the stand for the opening wicket before Sharma got dismissed on 34, whereas, Gill got dismissed on 28 by Jamieson and Wagner respectively. The first hour of the match went in India's favour, but two wickets of Sharma and Gill brought New Zealand back in the game by the end of the first session. Cheteshwar Pujara's resistance against Kiwi pacers did not last long as the batsman departed at 8 runs after being lbw by Trent Boult. However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane held the team intact as they put on an unbeaten 58-run stand. Team India were 146/3 before stumps was called due to poor light. Huge halts due to bad lights and poor weather conditions forced the match day to be cut short midway. However, Team India have batted really well after losing the toss in bowler-friendly conditions.

IND vs NZ, WTC Final, Day 2: Kohli, Rahane hold ground as bad light forces early stumps

Virat Kohli has by and large enlisted his resistance to the ICC's abrupt changes&nbsp;in rules for the debut World Test Championship points table. The Indian captain said his team had viewed itself as qualified before the framework came into force, and the change just made them more resolved to perform.&nbsp;

To relieve the COVID-19 pandemic's effect on the cricketing schedules, the ICC had moved to a percentage-based focuses framework in October last year. The amended guidelines implied India lost their top position and staggered to the third position.

Ahead of the WTC final, Kohli&nbsp;spoke of how his team assumed its part obediently by partaking in all the series introduced to it.

"It wasn't supposed to be a topsy-turvy ride, to be honest. When you are sitting at home and the rules change suddenly you get confused as to what happened. Without anyone's control, we did not miss or choose to miss any series through the course of the World Test Championship apart from the scheduling that wasn't done at all. We pretty much played everything that was presented to us," said the Indian skipper.

"And yeah, in our minds, we had qualified way before things got complicated anyway. That just gave us more determination and more clarity as to where we want to go and what we want to achieve," he said.

Kohli additionally took a gander at the positive side of the issues, declaring that the difference in rules kept the group from getting careless and made them much more eager to win.

"So, looking back now, it was probably a good thing that happened. There was no room for complacency. If we had qualified earlier maybe we would have relaxed a little bit but the situation allowed us to be more hungry and more determined and know exactly what was going at that moment and use that as a fueling factor and a motivation to keep moving forward regardless of whatever was going on the outside," he added.

Kohli suggested changes to the WTC rules, including some guidelines against the groups who didn't take an interest in the scheduled arrangement. He added that the general idea of the WTC is a positive step and pervades Test cricket with context and a more anima.&nbsp;

"Firstly, not for the rules to change overnight. That'll be helpful if there's more clarity around what's happening and which direction we are heading into and you know also for the teams who haven't played series for some reasons to have some kind of ruling there as to what happens after," he said.

"For me, it's been a very positive step in the right direction because you understand that in every series you are playing and competing for something and there's no room for complacency, or for playing out an easy draw. If you can afford to go for a few points, you'll go for them. I think it's a step in the right direction for Test cricket," he added.

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has by and large enlisted his resistance to the ICC's abrupt changes in rules for the debut World Test Championship points table. The Indian captain said his team had viewed itself as qualified before the framework came into force, and the change just made them more resolved to perform.

Virat Kohli has by and large enlisted his resistance to the ICC's abrupt changes in rules for the debut World Test Championship points table. The Indian captain said his team had viewed itself as qualified before the framework came into force, and the change just made them more resolved to perform. To relieve the COVID-19 pandemic's effect on the cricketing schedules, the ICC had moved to a percentage-based focuses framework in October last year. The amended guidelines implied India lost their top position and staggered to the third position. Ahead of the WTC final, Kohli spoke of how his team assumed its part obediently by partaking in all the series introduced to it. "It wasn't supposed to be a topsy-turvy ride, to be honest. When you are sitting at home and the rules change suddenly you get confused as to what happened. Without anyone's control, we did not miss or choose to miss any series through the course of the World Test Championship apart from the scheduling that wasn't done at all. We pretty much played everything that was presented to us," said the Indian skipper. "And yeah, in our minds, we had qualified way before things got complicated anyway. That just gave us more determination and more clarity as to where we want to go and what we want to achieve," he said. Kohli additionally took a gander at the positive side of the issues, declaring that the difference in rules kept the group from getting careless and made them much more eager to win. "So, looking back now, it was probably a good thing that happened. There was no room for complacency. If we had qualified earlier maybe we would have relaxed a little bit but the situation allowed us to be more hungry and more determined and know exactly what was going at that moment and use that as a fueling factor and a motivation to keep moving forward regardless of whatever was going on the outside," he added. Kohli suggested changes to the WTC rules, including some guidelines against the groups who didn't take an interest in the scheduled arrangement. He added that the general idea of the WTC is a positive step and pervades Test cricket with context and a more anima. "Firstly, not for the rules to change overnight. That'll be helpful if there's more clarity around what's happening and which direction we are heading into and you know also for the teams who haven't played series for some reasons to have some kind of ruling there as to what happens after," he said. "For me, it's been a very positive step in the right direction because you understand that in every series you are playing and competing for something and there's no room for complacency, or for playing out an easy draw. If you can afford to go for a few points, you'll go for them. I think it's a step in the right direction for Test cricket," he added.

World Test Championship a very positive step in the right direction, says Virat Kohli

Sunil Gavaskar trusts Team India may change their playing XI not long before the toss in the World Test Championship finale. Sunil Gavaskar, who is at present at Southampton for discourse obligations, said the severe climate there is helpful for pacers, which could provoke India to incorporate an expert batsman almost too late.&nbsp;

India declared their playing XI on Thursday evening, with a bowling mix of three seamers and two twist bowling all-rounders in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. New Zealand, then again, has conveyed a careful, pause-and-watch approach and will just uncover their group at the throw.&nbsp;

Sunil Gavaskar thought that both of the Indian spinners may need to clear a path for a batsman while Rishabh Pant could be shunted by one spot in the batting order. In a conversation with AajTak, Sunil Gavaskar said:&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yes, that's the thing. See, they might have announced the team yesterday, nothing is finalized until the captains share the sheets with each other during the toss. So, you can change the team till the very last moment. As a captain, when I used to be confused between playing a spinner or an extra batsman, I used to see the opposition's eleven and scratch and change the team on my paper just before the toss."

"So, the eleven can be changed anytime before the toss. So I feel like maybe they'll think of playing another batsman because of the weather. Because these conditions are suitable for New Zealand fast bowlers so Rishabh Pant is at six, he might shift to seven and an extra batsman might play. Seeing this weather, one spinner might be dropped" - he added.&nbsp;

The first 15-part crew incorporates Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, and Mohammed Siraj as stores. Hanuma Vihari would be the most probable alternative for an additional batsman, while Mohammed Siraj could be acquired if the team chooses to bargain it's anything but an extra seamer.&nbsp;

The main look on the pitch showed an even layer of grass. Sunil Gavaskar has uncovered that as opposed to assumptions, it hasn't been shaved off yet because of the deluge, and all things considered, the last pitch will have some grass on it. He added that this could mean the group winning the throw may handle first without a second thought.&nbsp;

"Yes, that will be the thinking of both the captains. It has been raining since yesterday so the groundsman hasn't got the chance to trim the grass and roll the pitch. There will definitely be some grass then. That's why I feel that as both India and New Zealand have brilliant new-ball attacks, they'll want to safeguard their own batters and field first if they win the toss. If they can pick up 3-4 wickets in the first hour, the match will be in their control" - he said.

The WTC final didn't get off to the best of starts as the first session was wiped out. The ground is doused and the conjecture for the remainder of the day is additionally hopeless. The reserve day, June 23, may prove to be useful if conditions improve in the coming days.

Sunil Gavaskar trusts Team India may change their playing XI not long before the toss in the World Test Championship finale. Sunil Gavaskar, who is at present at Southampton for discourse obligations, said the severe climate there is helpful for pacers, which could provoke India to incorporate an expert batsman almost too late.

Sunil Gavaskar trusts Team India may change their playing XI not long before the toss in the World Test Championship finale. Sunil Gavaskar, who is at present at Southampton for discourse obligations, said the severe climate there is helpful for pacers, which could provoke India to incorporate an expert batsman almost too late. India declared their playing XI on Thursday evening, with a bowling mix of three seamers and two twist bowling all-rounders in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. New Zealand, then again, has conveyed a careful, pause-and-watch approach and will just uncover their group at the throw. Sunil Gavaskar thought that both of the Indian spinners may need to clear a path for a batsman while Rishabh Pant could be shunted by one spot in the batting order. In a conversation with AajTak, Sunil Gavaskar said: "Yes, that's the thing. See, they might have announced the team yesterday, nothing is finalized until the captains share the sheets with each other during the toss. So, you can change the team till the very last moment. As a captain, when I used to be confused between playing a spinner or an extra batsman, I used to see the opposition's eleven and scratch and change the team on my paper just before the toss." "So, the eleven can be changed anytime before the toss. So I feel like maybe they'll think of playing another batsman because of the weather. Because these conditions are suitable for New Zealand fast bowlers so Rishabh Pant is at six, he might shift to seven and an extra batsman might play. Seeing this weather, one spinner might be dropped" - he added. The first 15-part crew incorporates Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, and Mohammed Siraj as stores. Hanuma Vihari would be the most probable alternative for an additional batsman, while Mohammed Siraj could be acquired if the team chooses to bargain it's anything but an extra seamer. The main look on the pitch showed an even layer of grass. Sunil Gavaskar has uncovered that as opposed to assumptions, it hasn't been shaved off yet because of the deluge, and all things considered, the last pitch will have some grass on it. He added that this could mean the group winning the throw may handle first without a second thought. "Yes, that will be the thinking of both the captains. It has been raining since yesterday so the groundsman hasn't got the chance to trim the grass and roll the pitch. There will definitely be some grass then. That's why I feel that as both India and New Zealand have brilliant new-ball attacks, they'll want to safeguard their own batters and field first if they win the toss. If they can pick up 3-4 wickets in the first hour, the match will be in their control" - he said. The WTC final didn't get off to the best of starts as the first session was wiped out. The ground is doused and the conjecture for the remainder of the day is additionally hopeless. The reserve day, June 23, may prove to be useful if conditions improve in the coming days.

WTC Final: Sunil Gavaskar thinks Team India might change the playing XI before the toss

Following quite a while of publicity and energy, the World Test Championship final among India and New Zealand is good to go to get in progress. The clash of the best two Test teams will happen at the Rose Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. June 23 has been set apart as a hold day to compensate for lost overs, if necessary.&nbsp;

Aside from team systems, strategies, and pitch conditions, there has been a lot of conversation over the climate in Southampton for the WTC final.&nbsp;

A glance at the conjecture for Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand WTC last doesn't make for charming perusing taking everything into account. There is a forecast for a downpour just as notice for rainstorms. The overcast cover is the gauge to be a high 94% while the temperature will be cool, at around 16 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The climate for the excess four days of India versus New Zealand WTC final is additionally not unreasonably encouraging, with the reliable expectation of downpour and industrious overcast cover.

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen recently shared a tweet of the Southampton weather for the WTC final, which revealed:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
World Test Championship to start in UK today &amp; it’s hammering it down! 
🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1405772006553915392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The forecast for Day 1 isn't extremely encouraging. In what is terrible information for fans, a downpour is probably going to unleash destruction in this match, with showers.

Various cricketers, analysts, and locals from Southampton have shared visuals from the stadium.

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Good morning from the bubble in Southampton where it has been raining through the night &amp; the forecast is for rain all day today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/yPYelAGQRu">pic.twitter.com/yPYelAGQRu</a>
— Freddie Wilde (@fwildecricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/fwildecricket/status/1405777549603508224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

 
<img alt="Ravichandran Ashwin Instagram story" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3303bd7e-4cf4-4cea-9de4-77cea2ada755" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sout_0.jpeg" />

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Hmmm… <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTCfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTCfinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/2AUYgwyT7U">pic.twitter.com/2AUYgwyT7U</a>
— Andrew Miller (@miller_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/miller_cricket/status/1405776500960366604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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😩 pouring down <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTCFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTCFinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZBcc8KrQsk">pic.twitter.com/ZBcc8KrQsk</a>
— Wear a mask. Take your vaccine. (@prithinarayanan) <a href="https://twitter.com/prithinarayanan/status/1405791759024721920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Downpour, downpour disappear, the World Test Championship should be played," ought to be the new motto of the Final, which faces the danger of a key match being washed away because of the nasty English summer climate.

The ICC was intensely reprimanded for naming England the victor of the 2019 World Cup regardless of the final. Indeed, this season in England observes a ton of precipitation. Who can fail to remember the ICC 2019 World Cup, where upwards of four matches were cleaned out because of a downpour? Subsequently, it was in every case simply a question of time before downpour projected its shadows on the huge finale of the WTC also.

Following quite a while of publicity and energy, the World Test Championship final among India and New Zealand is good to go to get in progress. The clash of the best two Test teams will happen at the Rose Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.

Following quite a while of publicity and energy, the World Test Championship final among India and New Zealand is good to go to get in progress. The clash of the best two Test teams will happen at the Rose Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. June 23 has been set apart as a hold day to compensate for lost overs, if necessary. Aside from team systems, strategies, and pitch conditions, there has been a lot of conversation over the climate in Southampton for the WTC final. A glance at the conjecture for Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand WTC last doesn't make for charming perusing taking everything into account. There is a forecast for a downpour just as notice for rainstorms. The overcast cover is the gauge to be a high 94% while the temperature will be cool, at around 16 degrees Celsius. The climate for the excess four days of India versus New Zealand WTC final is additionally not unreasonably encouraging, with the reliable expectation of downpour and industrious overcast cover. Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen recently shared a tweet of the Southampton weather for the WTC final, which revealed: World Test Championship to start in UK today & it’s hammering it down! 🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧🌧 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) June 18, 2021 × The forecast for Day 1 isn't extremely encouraging. In what is terrible information for fans, a downpour is probably going to unleash destruction in this match, with showers. Various cricketers, analysts, and locals from Southampton have shared visuals from the stadium. Good morning from the bubble in Southampton where it has been raining through the night & the forecast is for rain all day today. #INDvNZ #WTC21 pic.twitter.com/yPYelAGQRu — Freddie Wilde (@fwildecricket) June 18, 2021 × Hmmm… #WTCfinal pic.twitter.com/2AUYgwyT7U — Andrew Miller (@miller_cricket) June 18, 2021 × 😩 pouring down #WTCFinal pic.twitter.com/ZBcc8KrQsk — Wear a mask. Take your vaccine. (@prithinarayanan) June 18, 2021 × "Downpour, downpour disappear, the World Test Championship should be played," ought to be the new motto of the Final, which faces the danger of a key match being washed away because of the nasty English summer climate. The ICC was intensely reprimanded for naming England the victor of the 2019 World Cup regardless of the final. Indeed, this season in England observes a ton of precipitation. Who can fail to remember the ICC 2019 World Cup, where upwards of four matches were cleaned out because of a downpour? Subsequently, it was in every case simply a question of time before downpour projected its shadows on the huge finale of the WTC also.

Cricket: 'Hammering down'- Cloudy skies, downpour guarantee to threaten WTC final clash at Rose Bowl

Former India batsman turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has said that it would be better for Virat Kohli if he loses the toss in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand that is set to kick off at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday.&nbsp;

"The toss is an interesting thing. Players, when they go for the toss and there are overcast conditions and expect it to be there for the first couple of hours. They look at the pitch that has a nice, healthy cover of grass. No pitch in England would be devoid of grass. Some would be dry but there would be grass. So when you look at the overcast conditions, you're tempted to bowl first, especially a team like India, with no match practice and batting being a little vulnerable," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-a-very-positive-step-in-the-right-direction-says-virat-kohli-392315" hreflang="en">World Test Championship a very positive step in the right direction, says Virat Kohli</a>

The team batting first has had an advantage in Southampton. Out of six Test matches in Rose Bowl, captains have opted to bat first five times. Out of these five, three have ended up on the winning side. According to Manjrekar, toss will not play a crucial role and will not decide the match.&nbsp;

"I don't think toss is going to be crucial. If you win the toss and bat really well, that's a different matter. But if India lose, that will be ideal for them because they'd want to do the right thing and bat first. So I just hope for Virat Kohli's sake that they lose the toss. Of late, in Test cricket, losing tosses have won plenty of matches so it's not the deciding factor," Manjrekar pointed out.

Former India batsman turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has said that it would be better for Virat Kohli if he loses the toss in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand that is set to kick off at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday.

Former India batsman turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has said that it would be better for Virat Kohli if he loses the toss in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand that is set to kick off at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday. "The toss is an interesting thing. Players, when they go for the toss and there are overcast conditions and expect it to be there for the first couple of hours. They look at the pitch that has a nice, healthy cover of grass. No pitch in England would be devoid of grass. Some would be dry but there would be grass. So when you look at the overcast conditions, you're tempted to bowl first, especially a team like India, with no match practice and batting being a little vulnerable," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. ALSO READ: World Test Championship a very positive step in the right direction, says Virat Kohli The team batting first has had an advantage in Southampton. Out of six Test matches in Rose Bowl, captains have opted to bat first five times. Out of these five, three have ended up on the winning side. According to Manjrekar, toss will not play a crucial role and will not decide the match. "I don't think toss is going to be crucial. If you win the toss and bat really well, that's a different matter. But if India lose, that will be ideal for them because they'd want to do the right thing and bat first. So I just hope for Virat Kohli's sake that they lose the toss. Of late, in Test cricket, losing tosses have won plenty of matches so it's not the deciding factor," Manjrekar pointed out.

Cricket: 'If India lose toss, that will be ideal for them', says Sanjay Manjrekar ahead of WTC final

The weather forecast of the World test Championship final between India and New Zealand predicted rain for almost all five days. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was asked about the weather during the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-hammering-down-cloudy-skies-downpour-guarantee-to-threaten-wtc-final-clash-at-rose-bowl-392348" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Hammering down'- Cloudy skies, downpour guarantee to threaten WTC final clash at Rose Bowl</a>

"No, it does not change anything from our point of view as a team. For us, it is about covering all bases and making sure that we take the strongest side we can on the park. It gives us batting depth and gives us enough bowling options as well. So, we are quite clear in terms of what we want to do.

"Forecast is something we are not focussed on. We are not going to think about what might change. Regardless of anything we have all our bases covered and we know that. So, we are not bothered about what the weather forecast holds or whether we have to change the whole outlook of the team," Kohli said when asked about the weather affecting his team combination.

"Obviously how you approach the game and the decisions that you make, day to day, they obviously alter when the conditions are different but not your whole team altogether," he added.

Aside from team systems, strategies, and pitch conditions, there has been a lot of conversation over the climate in Southampton for the WTC final.&nbsp;

A glance at the conjecture for Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand WTC last doesn't make for charming perusing taking everything into account. There is a forecast for a downpour just as notice for rainstorms. The overcast cover is the gauge to be a high 94% while the temperature will be cool, at around 16 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The climate for the excess four days of India versus New Zealand WTC final is additionally not unreasonably encouraging, with the reliable expectation of downpour and industrious overcast cover.

The first session of Day 1 was washed out due to a heavy downpour.&nbsp;

The weather forecast of the World test Championship final between India and New Zealand predicted rain for almost all five days. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was asked about the weather during the pre-match press conference.

The weather forecast of the World test Championship final between India and New Zealand predicted rain for almost all five days. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was asked about the weather during the pre-match press conference. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Hammering down'- Cloudy skies, downpour guarantee to threaten WTC final clash at Rose Bowl "No, it does not change anything from our point of view as a team. For us, it is about covering all bases and making sure that we take the strongest side we can on the park. It gives us batting depth and gives us enough bowling options as well. So, we are quite clear in terms of what we want to do. "Forecast is something we are not focussed on. We are not going to think about what might change. Regardless of anything we have all our bases covered and we know that. So, we are not bothered about what the weather forecast holds or whether we have to change the whole outlook of the team," Kohli said when asked about the weather affecting his team combination. "Obviously how you approach the game and the decisions that you make, day to day, they obviously alter when the conditions are different but not your whole team altogether," he added. Aside from team systems, strategies, and pitch conditions, there has been a lot of conversation over the climate in Southampton for the WTC final. A glance at the conjecture for Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand WTC last doesn't make for charming perusing taking everything into account. There is a forecast for a downpour just as notice for rainstorms. The overcast cover is the gauge to be a high 94% while the temperature will be cool, at around 16 degrees Celsius. The climate for the excess four days of India versus New Zealand WTC final is additionally not unreasonably encouraging, with the reliable expectation of downpour and industrious overcast cover. The first session of Day 1 was washed out due to a heavy downpour.

'Forecast is something we are not focussed on', Virat Kohli ahead of WTC final

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has faced several top bowlers in his prolific career. One among them was Dale Steyn, the Proteas in his prime used his menacing pace against young Virat. Now, Steyn has revealed his plan of bowling to India's top batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-if-india-lose-toss-that-will-be-ideal-for-them-says-sanjay-manjrekar-ahead-of-wtc-final-392339">'If India lose toss, it will be ideal for them': Manjrekar ahead of WTC final</a>

"You've got to play the mind games with Virat. I would look at putting somebody in at short leg. I would let him know that I'm going to come at him, come at his body, want to come quickly at him. And I'd want him to try and pull, because I feel like that's his B game," Steyn told Sanjay Manjrekar on ESPNCricinfo ahead of the start of the World Test Championship final in Southampton.

"Even though he does it really well, I'd want him to think that's where I'm going to bowl, and then get it up there because I like to swing the ball, I like to move the ball. Look for those three modes of dismissals, LBW, bowled and the caught behind."

Dale Steyn talked about how important it was to bait the batsman into believing that he is being set up for a short ball while the reality would be something totally different.

"We know, every batter's feet in the first 20 balls is not moving as well as he's like to. His eyes haven't adjusted, he hasn't adapted to the wicket just yet. So I'd want him to think I'm going to go short but I'll probably bowl six full balls to him to be honest," Steyn added.

"I'll probably trying to get him to nick every single ball but I'll be telling him, 'it's coming… I'm going to hit you in the head you know'. I'm not going to swear at him but let him know that that short leg is in business."

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has faced several top bowlers in his prolific career. One among them was Dale Steyn, the Proteas in his prime used his menacing pace against young Virat.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has faced several top bowlers in his prolific career. One among them was Dale Steyn, the Proteas in his prime used his menacing pace against young Virat. Now, Steyn has revealed his plan of bowling to India's top batsman. ALSO READ: 'If India lose toss, it will be ideal for them': Manjrekar ahead of WTC final "You've got to play the mind games with Virat. I would look at putting somebody in at short leg. I would let him know that I'm going to come at him, come at his body, want to come quickly at him. And I'd want him to try and pull, because I feel like that's his B game," Steyn told Sanjay Manjrekar on ESPNCricinfo ahead of the start of the World Test Championship final in Southampton. "Even though he does it really well, I'd want him to think that's where I'm going to bowl, and then get it up there because I like to swing the ball, I like to move the ball. Look for those three modes of dismissals, LBW, bowled and the caught behind." Dale Steyn talked about how important it was to bait the batsman into believing that he is being set up for a short ball while the reality would be something totally different. "We know, every batter's feet in the first 20 balls is not moving as well as he's like to. His eyes haven't adjusted, he hasn't adapted to the wicket just yet. So I'd want him to think I'm going to go short but I'll probably bowl six full balls to him to be honest," Steyn added. "I'll probably trying to get him to nick every single ball but I'll be telling him, 'it's coming… I'm going to hit you in the head you know'. I'm not going to swear at him but let him know that that short leg is in business."

Cricket: 'You've got to play the mind games with Virat', says Dale Steyn

With just over a day to go for the WTC final between India and New Zealand, former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has predicted Team India's playing XI as they take to pitch at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a>

Venkatesh Prasad feels that Team India have the depth in both (batting and bowling) departments and expected the clash to be a cracking game.&nbsp;

He took to social media and tweeted: "My Indian playing 11 for the #WTCFinal is a no-brainier (Rohit, Shubman,Pujara, Virat, Rahane, Pant, Jadeja, Ashwin, Shami, Ishant &amp; Bumrah ). They have the depth in both batting &amp; bowling irrespective of the pitch. Should be a cracking game."

Team India suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for Team India in the series, therefore, the Indian batting order will be very crucial for the juggernaut clash in Southampton.&nbsp;

Earlier, former Indian cricketer, VVS Laxman predicted Team India's batting order for the match and said that he will go ahead with five batsmen.&nbsp;

India squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

With just over a day to go for the WTC final between India and New Zealand, former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has predicted Team India's playing XI as they take to pitch at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday.

With just over a day to go for the WTC final between India and New Zealand, former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has predicted Team India's playing XI as they take to pitch at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday. ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship Venkatesh Prasad feels that Team India have the depth in both (batting and bowling) departments and expected the clash to be a cracking game. He took to social media and tweeted: "My Indian playing 11 for the #WTCFinal is a no-brainier (Rohit, Shubman,Pujara, Virat, Rahane, Pant, Jadeja, Ashwin, Shami, Ishant & Bumrah ). They have the depth in both batting & bowling irrespective of the pitch. Should be a cracking game." Team India suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for Team India in the series, therefore, the Indian batting order will be very crucial for the juggernaut clash in Southampton. Earlier, former Indian cricketer, VVS Laxman predicted Team India's batting order for the match and said that he will go ahead with five batsmen. India squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.

Venkatesh Prasad reveals his playing XI for Team India ahead of WTC final

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday. <o:p></o:p>

Indian skipper Kohli said that a one-off Test match to determine the winner of WTC is not a “true reflection” of his team while adding he is treating it as “just another” match. With the Test Mace on the line, Kohli isn’t too bothered about winning or losing the match yet and wants to enjoy the occasion of being in the inaugural edition of the WTC.<o:p></o:p>

“One game over five days. It’s not going to reflect anything and those who understand the game know and also what has gone over the period of last four to five years," Kohli said on the eve of the big final against the Black Caps.<o:p></o:p>

“If we win, cricket will not stop and if we lose also, cricket won’t stop. We are playing in quest of excellence and understand who we are as a team," the eloquent Indian captain added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mohammed-siraj-misses-out-as-india-announce-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-392210" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“This is just another Test match. All these things (WTC final) look good from the outside. One game can’t become a do-or-die game. It’s a great moment but cricket goes on just like life goes on."<o:p></o:p>

“The occasion needs to be enjoyed and no more important than the first Test that we all played as young players trying to rise through the ranks.<o:p></o:p>

“We need to have belief in our abilities and keep things simple. It’s a contest between bat and ball."<o:p></o:p>

Whereas Williamson reflected on New Zealand’s growth as a powerhouse team over the years but said that he is not reading too much into the ‘favourites’ tag given to his team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-collective-strength-of-team-india-stands-out-for-me-sachin-tendulkar-ahead-of-wtc-final-392197" hreflang="en">Exclusive | 'Collective strength of Team India stands out for me': Sachin Tendulkar ahead of WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude," Williamson said on the eve of the final.<o:p></o:p>

“There is lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of WTC).<o:p></o:p>

“It’s exciting but for us it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on. We are trying to look at the long game and try and improve all the time."<o:p></o:p>

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday.

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday. Indian skipper Kohli said that a one-off Test match to determine the winner of WTC is not a “true reflection” of his team while adding he is treating it as “just another” match. With the Test Mace on the line, Kohli isn’t too bothered about winning or losing the match yet and wants to enjoy the occasion of being in the inaugural edition of the WTC. “One game over five days. It’s not going to reflect anything and those who understand the game know and also what has gone over the period of last four to five years," Kohli said on the eve of the big final against the Black Caps. “If we win, cricket will not stop and if we lose also, cricket won’t stop. We are playing in quest of excellence and understand who we are as a team," the eloquent Indian captain added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final “This is just another Test match. All these things (WTC final) look good from the outside. One game can’t become a do-or-die game. It’s a great moment but cricket goes on just like life goes on." “The occasion needs to be enjoyed and no more important than the first Test that we all played as young players trying to rise through the ranks. “We need to have belief in our abilities and keep things simple. It’s a contest between bat and ball." Whereas Williamson reflected on New Zealand’s growth as a powerhouse team over the years but said that he is not reading too much into the ‘favourites’ tag given to his team. ALSO READ: Exclusive | 'Collective strength of Team India stands out for me': Sachin Tendulkar ahead of WTC Final “There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude," Williamson said on the eve of the final. “There is lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of WTC). “It’s exciting but for us it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on. We are trying to look at the long game and try and improve all the time."

Cricket: WTC Final - Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson gear up for ultimate prize in Test cricket

Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mohammed-siraj-misses-out-as-india-announce-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-392210" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final</a>

The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will fill in for the spin position and also will provide a much-needed depth to the Men in Blue. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma will be the pacers for the match.&nbsp;

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🚨 NEWS 🚨 
 
Here's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Playing XI for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> Final 💪 👇 <a href="https://t.co/DiOBAzf88h">pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1405522436850782213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Twitteratis could not keep calm after BCCI announced playing XI for the World Test Championship final. While most of them were happy with the announcement, there were few who were not pleased with Mohammed Siraj's exclusion. &nbsp;

Let's take a look at some of the reaction.&nbsp;

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Best 11🥵, let's end Kiwis now
— Shreya✨🇩🇪 (@pink_pistachioz) <a href="https://twitter.com/pink_pistachioz/status/1405525053001764869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As expected. Perfecto 👌
— 🐾🦦🐕 (@seapish) <a href="https://twitter.com/seapish/status/1405525855963471873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The last time when Bumrah-Ishant-Shami played together for India in a Test match - India lost by 10 wickets (v NZ, Wellington, 2020).
— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/UPStatsman/status/1405527355091603464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Siraj should have played instead of jadeja because of English conditions, everything else looks perfect 👍
— 🏌️ (@Plant_Warrior) <a href="https://twitter.com/Plant_Warrior/status/1405523694504398849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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No siraj seriously 🤦🏿‍♂️🙄
— 🚜 Karan Gill ☬ (@JATTLANDPB11) <a href="https://twitter.com/JATTLANDPB11/status/1405525665454071811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will fill in for the spin position and also will provide a much-needed depth to the Men in Blue. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma will be the pacers for the match. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 Here's #TeamIndia's Playing XI for the #WTC21 Final 💪 👇 pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h — BCCI (@BCCI) June 17, 2021 × Twitteratis could not keep calm after BCCI announced playing XI for the World Test Championship final. While most of them were happy with the announcement, there were few who were not pleased with Mohammed Siraj's exclusion. Let's take a look at some of the reaction. Best 11🥵, let's end Kiwis now — Shreya✨🇩🇪 (@pink_pistachioz) June 17, 2021 × As expected. Perfecto 👌 — 🐾🦦🐕 (@seapish) June 17, 2021 × The last time when Bumrah-Ishant-Shami played together for India in a Test match - India lost by 10 wickets (v NZ, Wellington, 2020). — Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) June 17, 2021 × Siraj should have played instead of jadeja because of English conditions, everything else looks perfect 👍 — 🏌️ (@Plant_Warrior) June 17, 2021 × No siraj seriously 🤦🏿‍♂️🙄 — 🚜 Karan Gill ☬ (@JATTLANDPB11) June 17, 2021 ×

Cricket: Twitter erupts as Team India announce their playing XI for WTC final

When it comes to&nbsp;cricket, there aren't many&nbsp;better than batting legend&nbsp;Sachin Tendulkar and current India skipper Virat Kohli. The&nbsp;two, alongside different greats, have&nbsp;been at the apex of the game and they keep on motivating the present and the group of people yet to come of cricketers.

Ahead of the World Test Championship final, legend Sachin Tendulkar excused discussions of Virat Kohli's evident shortcoming outside the off-stump that prompted the last's arid visit through England in 2014.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-star-studded-commentary-panel-for-wtc-final-391597" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final</a>

The cricket legend accepts the region outside off in the fourth or fifth stump disturbs practically all players and isn't explicit to the Indian captain. He additionally accepts that a quality player like Virat Kohli will have his own arrangements to handle the issue.&nbsp;

In a conversation with ANI, Sachin Tendulkar said:&nbsp; 
"I think outside the off-stump or whatever that is, all batters get out from there. So, I won't look at whatever shot he is playing. What is the percentage that Kohli is getting the shots right, and how many times he has been dismissed? If we compare that, then the player has to assess and plan that these are the areas I need to tighten up. But I wouldn't worry too much about all those things, it has been fine, to be honest."

"I am sure a batsman of his Virat Kohli's&nbsp;caliber understands the game as he is a good student. He will have his plans. It need not be that 'okay, I am not going to play this shot'. Sometimes you know, you adjust your stance and do many things at the crease that the bowlers sometimes don't pick. All those minor tweaks one can do" - he added.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli oversaw only 134 runs at an average of 13.4 on India's England visit in 2014, with James Anderson abusing his shortcoming around the off-stump.&nbsp;

After he got back from England, Virat Kohli had a couple of meetings with Tendulkar in Mumbai, where the last caused him to understand the significance of enormous walks and forward press against pacers. The minor specialized changes assisted him with advancing a superior player. The following time Virat Kohli visited England in 2018, he bested the run diagrams, scoring almost 593 runs at an average of 59.3.&nbsp;

Indeed, even an incredible player like Sachin Tendulkar had his issues around the off-stump region during India's Australia visit in 2003-04. The batting maestro had a helpless run until the fourth Test, getting out while driving the ball.&nbsp;

"I started not playing that shot drive, but it wasn't decided in the dressing room. I went there on the field and figured out their strategy is to keep the ball away from me, so I said, okay, let's see who loses patience first. It was me against the 11, and I thought if you keep bowling the ball there, I will keep leaving it. If it is for two days, I will. It happened on the field, and I am sure with him also, he will realize what they are trying to do, and then you should have the flexibility to move from Plan A to Plan B and respond to various challenges."

The terrific finale, which will cut down the shades on a two-year-long competition, will be played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The match is scheduled to start on June 18.

When it comes to cricket, there aren't many better than batting legend Sachin Tendulkar and current India skipper Virat Kohli. The two, alongside different greats, have been at the apex of the game and they keep on motivating the present and the group of people yet to come of cricketers.

When it comes to cricket, there aren't many better than batting legend Sachin Tendulkar and current India skipper Virat Kohli. The two, alongside different greats, have been at the apex of the game and they keep on motivating the present and the group of people yet to come of cricketers. Ahead of the World Test Championship final, legend Sachin Tendulkar excused discussions of Virat Kohli's evident shortcoming outside the off-stump that prompted the last's arid visit through England in 2014. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final The cricket legend accepts the region outside off in the fourth or fifth stump disturbs practically all players and isn't explicit to the Indian captain. He additionally accepts that a quality player like Virat Kohli will have his own arrangements to handle the issue. In a conversation with ANI, Sachin Tendulkar said: "I think outside the off-stump or whatever that is, all batters get out from there. So, I won't look at whatever shot he is playing. What is the percentage that Kohli is getting the shots right, and how many times he has been dismissed? If we compare that, then the player has to assess and plan that these are the areas I need to tighten up. But I wouldn't worry too much about all those things, it has been fine, to be honest." "I am sure a batsman of his Virat Kohli's caliber understands the game as he is a good student. He will have his plans. It need not be that 'okay, I am not going to play this shot'. Sometimes you know, you adjust your stance and do many things at the crease that the bowlers sometimes don't pick. All those minor tweaks one can do" - he added. Virat Kohli oversaw only 134 runs at an average of 13.4 on India's England visit in 2014, with James Anderson abusing his shortcoming around the off-stump. After he got back from England, Virat Kohli had a couple of meetings with Tendulkar in Mumbai, where the last caused him to understand the significance of enormous walks and forward press against pacers. The minor specialized changes assisted him with advancing a superior player. The following time Virat Kohli visited England in 2018, he bested the run diagrams, scoring almost 593 runs at an average of 59.3. Indeed, even an incredible player like Sachin Tendulkar had his issues around the off-stump region during India's Australia visit in 2003-04. The batting maestro had a helpless run until the fourth Test, getting out while driving the ball. "I started not playing that shot drive, but it wasn't decided in the dressing room. I went there on the field and figured out their strategy is to keep the ball away from me, so I said, okay, let's see who loses patience first. It was me against the 11, and I thought if you keep bowling the ball there, I will keep leaving it. If it is for two days, I will. It happened on the field, and I am sure with him also, he will realize what they are trying to do, and then you should have the flexibility to move from Plan A to Plan B and respond to various challenges." The terrific finale, which will cut down the shades on a two-year-long competition, will be played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The match is scheduled to start on June 18.

A batsman of Virat Kohli's calibre understands the game, he will have his own plans: Sachin Tendulkar

Steve Smith has once again become the top-ranked Test batsman, with the ICC refreshing their rankings ahead of the World Test Championship final.

Steve Smith claimed back the No. 1 spot in Tests interestingly since last year's Boxing Day Test. Steve Smith's re-visitation of the top implies he has been at the top for 167 Tests played worldwide altogether. He is just behind Garry Sobers and Viv Richards in the rundown, who have been positioned No. 1 for 189 and 179 matches separately.&nbsp;

With the most recent update, Steve Smith is five points clear at the top of the standings with 891 points to his name. Kane Williamson is second with 886. Kane Williamson, who missed the second Test against England at Edgbaston because of injury in the wake of scoring 13 runs in the drawn first Test at Lord's, has slipped five focuses behind Smith's 891 rating focuses and is second in the players' rundown.

Virat Kohli is the solitary batsman to stride upwards in the ICC Test rankings. The Indian captain moved to fourth position, supplanting Joe Root as the England captain dropped to fifth. Joe Root didn't have the best of times against New Zealand, with him overseeing only 97 runs in two games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rohit-sharma-understands-when-to-press-accelerator-says-sachin-tendulkar-391833" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar</a>

However, with a five-match Test series against England not too far off after the World Test Championship final, Virat Kohli could before the long ascent to the No. 1 spot if things turn out well for him.&nbsp;

The remainder of the best 10 ICC Test batsmen rankings continues as before. Henry Nicholls, Rishabh Pant, Rohit Sharma, David Warner, and Babar Azam adjust the rundown.

The most recent men's week after week update, which additionally incorporates exhibitions from the main Test between South Africa and the West Indies in St Lucia, sees Quinton de Kock in the joint-twelfth situation with Cheteshwar Pujara while his countryman Adrian Markram has progressed two slots to arrive at 14th position.&nbsp;

Quinton De Kock, who was named player of the counterpart for scoring an unbeaten 141 that assisted him with joining win by an innings and 63 runs, has acquired 11 situations to accomplish his most elevated situation since December 2019.

Steve Smith has once again become the top-ranked Test batsman, with the ICC refreshing their rankings ahead of the World Test Championship final. Steve Smith claimed back the No.

Steve Smith has once again become the top-ranked Test batsman, with the ICC refreshing their rankings ahead of the World Test Championship final. Steve Smith claimed back the No. 1 spot in Tests interestingly since last year's Boxing Day Test. Steve Smith's re-visitation of the top implies he has been at the top for 167 Tests played worldwide altogether. He is just behind Garry Sobers and Viv Richards in the rundown, who have been positioned No. 1 for 189 and 179 matches separately. With the most recent update, Steve Smith is five points clear at the top of the standings with 891 points to his name. Kane Williamson is second with 886. Kane Williamson, who missed the second Test against England at Edgbaston because of injury in the wake of scoring 13 runs in the drawn first Test at Lord's, has slipped five focuses behind Smith's 891 rating focuses and is second in the players' rundown. Virat Kohli is the solitary batsman to stride upwards in the ICC Test rankings. The Indian captain moved to fourth position, supplanting Joe Root as the England captain dropped to fifth. Joe Root didn't have the best of times against New Zealand, with him overseeing only 97 runs in two games. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar However, with a five-match Test series against England not too far off after the World Test Championship final, Virat Kohli could before the long ascent to the No. 1 spot if things turn out well for him. The remainder of the best 10 ICC Test batsmen rankings continues as before. Henry Nicholls, Rishabh Pant, Rohit Sharma, David Warner, and Babar Azam adjust the rundown. The most recent men's week after week update, which additionally incorporates exhibitions from the main Test between South Africa and the West Indies in St Lucia, sees Quinton de Kock in the joint-twelfth situation with Cheteshwar Pujara while his countryman Adrian Markram has progressed two slots to arrive at 14th position. Quinton De Kock, who was named player of the counterpart for scoring an unbeaten 141 that assisted him with joining win by an innings and 63 runs, has acquired 11 situations to accomplish his most elevated situation since December 2019.

Cricket: Steve Smith dethrones Kane Williamson to become No.1 Test batsman

English spinner Monty Panesar feels that one pacer in the New Zealand lineup will trouble the Indian batting lineup the most during the World Test Championship finals at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-just-helped-in-cricket-but-also-helped-me-in-life-ruturaj-gaikwad-on-ms-dhoni-391053" hreflang="en">'Not just helped in cricket but also helped me in life': Ruturaj Gaikwad on MS Dhoni</a>

Tim Southee showed his class during the first Test against England as he dismantled Root and Co. in the first innings after scalping six wickets at Lord's.&nbsp;

“I think Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most in the swinging conditions. He is quite clever. He draws the batsman in by bowling slightly wide of the crease and slightly fuller. And that’s gonna be the danger ball for the Indian batsman. He’s going to lure them into hitting a half volley into the covers, and he will look to swing that ball. So that’s the ball the Indians need to watch out for," Panesar said while speaking with sports presenter Dr Yash Kashikar on Sportzoclock.

Pitch in Southampton has favoured the pacers and Virat and Co. will have to be careful with the Kiwi bowling attack. As per Panesar, New Zealand seem like a stronger team than Men in Blue.&nbsp;

“I think New Zealand look slightly the better side. The reason being they have a lot more variations. They have a left-armer, right-armer and the tall bowler Jamieson as well. And that’s a lot more difficult for a batsman to adjust to.

“So NZ will be hoping that the Indians will be preparing against the likes of a right armer and a left-armer and practicing with the ball swinging, because that is where it is going to be really testing for India,” he said.

English spinner Monty Panesar feels that one pacer in the New Zealand lineup will trouble the Indian batting lineup the most during the World Test Championship finals at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

English spinner Monty Panesar feels that one pacer in the New Zealand lineup will trouble the Indian batting lineup the most during the World Test Championship finals at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. ALSO READ: 'Not just helped in cricket but also helped me in life': Ruturaj Gaikwad on MS Dhoni Tim Southee showed his class during the first Test against England as he dismantled Root and Co. in the first innings after scalping six wickets at Lord's. “I think Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most in the swinging conditions. He is quite clever. He draws the batsman in by bowling slightly wide of the crease and slightly fuller. And that’s gonna be the danger ball for the Indian batsman. He’s going to lure them into hitting a half volley into the covers, and he will look to swing that ball. So that’s the ball the Indians need to watch out for," Panesar said while speaking with sports presenter Dr Yash Kashikar on Sportzoclock. Pitch in Southampton has favoured the pacers and Virat and Co. will have to be careful with the Kiwi bowling attack. As per Panesar, New Zealand seem like a stronger team than Men in Blue. “I think New Zealand look slightly the better side. The reason being they have a lot more variations. They have a left-armer, right-armer and the tall bowler Jamieson as well. And that’s a lot more difficult for a batsman to adjust to. “So NZ will be hoping that the Indians will be preparing against the likes of a right armer and a left-armer and practicing with the ball swinging, because that is where it is going to be really testing for India,” he said.

WTC Finals: 'Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most', says Monty Panesar

Hardik Pandya has boasted himself to get back to bowling at maximum capacity when the T20 World Cup comes around. The all-rounder conceded he is dealing with his responsibility with an eye on the ICC contest.&nbsp;

The all-rounder's powerlessness to bowl has been a major worry for India. Hardik Pandya is one of only a handful of seam bowling all-rounder choices available to India. Hardik Pandya bowled a couple of overs during the white-ball series against England however avoided bowling activity during the IPL.&nbsp;

Talking on the TOI, Hardik Pandya illustrated his bowling plans for the coming months.&nbsp;

“For me, I want to make sure, and I will be able to, that I bowl in all the games of the T20 World Cup. I am just trying to be smart and make sure that I don't miss that. My full focus is on the World Cup" - he said.

Hardik Pandya has battled to bowl reliably since the time he went through back a medical procedure in 2019. He has not bowled a solitary ball in the IPL in the course of the last two seasons and his bowling spells for India have been rare too.&nbsp;

Conversations around Hardik Pandya's bowling responsibility are never far away at whatever point the all-rounder takes to the field, and the 27-year-old clarified why he doesn't bowl all the more frequently.&nbsp;

“Yes, on the bowling front, what matters is how fit I am. Even after my surgery, I didn't drop my pace. My bowling is related to my fitness. The fitter I get, the better it comes out. Whenever I play, I don’t want to play at 50%. When&nbsp;I play, I will play at 100%” - he added&nbsp;

India's squad for the Sri Lanka series shows that the selectors don't have a ton of choices with regards to the crease bowling all-rounder's space. While there are sufficient reinforcements for any remaining positions, Hardik Pandya is the lone seam-bowling all-rounder in the side.&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup is quickly drawing closer and Hardik Pandya realizes he has something important to take care of. It's not simply the scoring of runs. India frantically needs Hardik Pandya to get back to full wellness and bowl four overs reliably, as it permits Virat Kohli to take the field with six bowling choices.&nbsp;Hardik the bowler also should pick his steps and be at his best when India takes a stab at an ICC trophy not long from now.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya has boasted himself to get back to bowling at maximum capacity when the T20 World Cup comes around. The all-rounder conceded he is dealing with his responsibility with an eye on the ICC contest.

Hardik Pandya has boasted himself to get back to bowling at maximum capacity when the T20 World Cup comes around. The all-rounder conceded he is dealing with his responsibility with an eye on the ICC contest. The all-rounder's powerlessness to bowl has been a major worry for India. Hardik Pandya is one of only a handful of seam bowling all-rounder choices available to India. Hardik Pandya bowled a couple of overs during the white-ball series against England however avoided bowling activity during the IPL. Talking on the TOI, Hardik Pandya illustrated his bowling plans for the coming months. “For me, I want to make sure, and I will be able to, that I bowl in all the games of the T20 World Cup. I am just trying to be smart and make sure that I don't miss that. My full focus is on the World Cup" - he said. Hardik Pandya has battled to bowl reliably since the time he went through back a medical procedure in 2019. He has not bowled a solitary ball in the IPL in the course of the last two seasons and his bowling spells for India have been rare too. Conversations around Hardik Pandya's bowling responsibility are never far away at whatever point the all-rounder takes to the field, and the 27-year-old clarified why he doesn't bowl all the more frequently. “Yes, on the bowling front, what matters is how fit I am. Even after my surgery, I didn't drop my pace. My bowling is related to my fitness. The fitter I get, the better it comes out. Whenever I play, I don’t want to play at 50%. When I play, I will play at 100%” - he added India's squad for the Sri Lanka series shows that the selectors don't have a ton of choices with regards to the crease bowling all-rounder's space. While there are sufficient reinforcements for any remaining positions, Hardik Pandya is the lone seam-bowling all-rounder in the side. The T20 World Cup is quickly drawing closer and Hardik Pandya realizes he has something important to take care of. It's not simply the scoring of runs. India frantically needs Hardik Pandya to get back to full wellness and bowl four overs reliably, as it permits Virat Kohli to take the field with six bowling choices. Hardik the bowler also should pick his steps and be at his best when India takes a stab at an ICC trophy not long from now.

Cricket: My full focus is on the T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya

Team India kicked off their practice session at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton to prepare for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-predicts-opening-duo-of-team-india-for-wtc-finals-390411" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals</a>

The Kiwis are currently involved in a two-match Test series against England, however, they may have some advantage as they already have enough match practice to adapt to the English conditions.&nbsp;

The BCCI took to Twitter on Thursday to share the clip of the intense practice session that Virat and Co. underwent.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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We have had our first group training session and the intensity was high 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s 🇮🇳 preparations are on in full swing for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> Final 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/MkHwh5wAYp">pic.twitter.com/MkHwh5wAYp</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1402847348250669060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The video featured skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Cheteshwar Pujara, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and more breaking the sweat for the juggernaut clash which is just over a week to go.&nbsp;

Earlier, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckoned that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final "may hurt" the Indian cricket team. His comments came after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team.

"Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday.

"It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.

Team India kicked off their practice session at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton to prepare for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand.

Team India kicked off their practice session at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton to prepare for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals The Kiwis are currently involved in a two-match Test series against England, however, they may have some advantage as they already have enough match practice to adapt to the English conditions. The BCCI took to Twitter on Thursday to share the clip of the intense practice session that Virat and Co. underwent. WATCH: We have had our first group training session and the intensity was high 🔥#TeamIndia's 🇮🇳 preparations are on in full swing for the #WTC21 Final 🙌 pic.twitter.com/MkHwh5wAYp — BCCI (@BCCI) June 10, 2021 × The video featured skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Cheteshwar Pujara, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and more breaking the sweat for the juggernaut clash which is just over a week to go. Earlier, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckoned that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final "may hurt" the Indian cricket team. His comments came after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. "Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. "It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.

Cricket: Virat and Co. break sweat at the Ageas Bowl after ending quarantine - WATCH

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli,&nbsp;under head coach Ravi Shastri, has&nbsp;achieved several feats.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-windies-recall-hope-against-south-africa-injured-gabriel-out-390271" hreflang="en">Cricket: Windies recall Hope against South Africa, injured Gabriel out</a>

"At present, the Indian team is fearless while taking on any opposition including Pakistan. The cricketing system is also responsible for this change in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli and Shastri have created a winning environment in the team," Ramiz Raja told India TV.

"Any new player who joins the Indian set-up knows demands in international cricket. So, from a bowling point of view, the Indian team is better than ever. It has got variation as well as a good leader like Kohli."

Team India have been a dominant force in Test cricket and have won twice in Australia. Virat and Co., under Shastri, have performed well in ICC tournaments too, however, are yet to win one.&nbsp;

According to Ramiz, Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, whereas, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup.&nbsp;

"The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, under head coach Ravi Shastri, has achieved several feats.

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, under head coach Ravi Shastri, has achieved several feats. ALSO READ: Cricket: Windies recall Hope against South Africa, injured Gabriel out "At present, the Indian team is fearless while taking on any opposition including Pakistan. The cricketing system is also responsible for this change in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli and Shastri have created a winning environment in the team," Ramiz Raja told India TV. "Any new player who joins the Indian set-up knows demands in international cricket. So, from a bowling point of view, the Indian team is better than ever. It has got variation as well as a good leader like Kohli." Team India have been a dominant force in Test cricket and have won twice in Australia. Virat and Co., under Shastri, have performed well in ICC tournaments too, however, are yet to win one. According to Ramiz, Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, whereas, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup. "The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Cricket: 'Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri have created winning environment in team', says Ramiz Raja

Former Pakistan cricket Danish Kaneria feels that Team India's star opener Rohit Sharma could smash his second double-century in the longest format at the World Test Championship finals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-has-best-bowling-line-up-to-probably-travel-to-all-conditions-brendon-mccullum-390337" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'India has best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions': Brendon McCullum</a>

Sharma is the only cricketer to have three double tons in ODIs, whereas, just one in Test cricket. The batsman has been in sublime form and will play a vital role for India in the highly anticipated finals against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Kaneria went on to say that Rohit Sharma has much better technique than Indian skipper Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

"No doubt, Kohli belongs to a different class altogether but I feel Rohit is better than him technique-wise. Kohli is a superstar, a legend but Rohit's has a knack of getting big scores. Although that has not happened in a while, every big player I feel scores big in important matches. He is due for a double-century," Kaneria said on his YouTube channel.

Former Pak bowler added that the conditions in Southampton will suit Rohit Sharma which increases his chances to score a daddy hundred.&nbsp;

"The wicket in Southampton will suit him and I believe he is a key player. It is important that he scores runs and I am sure he will make big runs because that’s the kind of player he is. In Australia he couldn’t get a big score but that doesn’t mean he can’t. Rohit will be the key player for India in batting. Everyone has to score runs, but like I said, Rohit will be key," Kaneria added.

Former Pakistan cricket Danish Kaneria feels that Team India's star opener Rohit Sharma could smash his second double-century in the longest format at the World Test Championship finals.

Former Pakistan cricket Danish Kaneria feels that Team India's star opener Rohit Sharma could smash his second double-century in the longest format at the World Test Championship finals. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'India has best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions': Brendon McCullum Sharma is the only cricketer to have three double tons in ODIs, whereas, just one in Test cricket. The batsman has been in sublime form and will play a vital role for India in the highly anticipated finals against New Zealand. Kaneria went on to say that Rohit Sharma has much better technique than Indian skipper Virat Kohli. "No doubt, Kohli belongs to a different class altogether but I feel Rohit is better than him technique-wise. Kohli is a superstar, a legend but Rohit's has a knack of getting big scores. Although that has not happened in a while, every big player I feel scores big in important matches. He is due for a double-century," Kaneria said on his YouTube channel. Former Pak bowler added that the conditions in Southampton will suit Rohit Sharma which increases his chances to score a daddy hundred. "The wicket in Southampton will suit him and I believe he is a key player. It is important that he scores runs and I am sure he will make big runs because that’s the kind of player he is. In Australia he couldn’t get a big score but that doesn’t mean he can’t. Rohit will be the key player for India in batting. Everyone has to score runs, but like I said, Rohit will be key," Kaneria added.

Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals

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