Indian skipper Virat Kohli has played some eye-catching knocks recently but it has been more than a year since the swashbuckling batsman scored a century in international cricket. Kohli will be eyeing records held by&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting when he takes the field for the three-match ODI series against England, starting Tuesday in Pune.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If Kohli goes on to end his century drought and score a ton against England in the three-ODI series then the Indian skipper will overtake Tendulkar's record of&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of centuries scored on home soil by an Indian batsman in ODI cricket.&nbsp;

A century by Kohli in the ODI series will also help him topple Ponting's feat of scoring most centuries scored as captain. Both Ponting and Kohli are currently tied at 22 centuries as captains in international cricket.&nbsp;

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Kohli came close to surpassing Ponting's record of scoring the most&nbsp;number of tons as captain during the fifth T20I against England where the Indian skipper smashed an unbeaten 80 off 52 to help India clinch the five-match series 3-2. He was named the&nbsp;Man of the Series in the England T20Is after scoring&nbsp;231 runs in 5 innings for Team India.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of the ODI series, Kohli was asked about how the team deals with players who are going through a rough patch or are completely out of form to which the Indian skipper said:&nbsp;“I can only think about one thing when people talk about a player is out of form. Kuch&nbsp;toh&nbsp;log&nbsp;kahenge&nbsp;logon ka&nbsp;kaam&nbsp;hain&nbsp;kehna&nbsp;(quoting a Hindi song). There is a lot of impatience outside the cricket set up. People love listening to criticism and it has only increased.&nbsp;

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“In the team, we know how to manage a player going through a tough patch. It is not as if you forget playing the game, it is just that you don't have the same mental clarity that you would usually have and then there is talk about you, which is another external factor you have to deal with.&nbsp;

“We will continue to back our players and keep them in good mental space,” he added.&nbsp;

India have already defeated England in the Test and T20I series.

&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has played some eye-catching knocks recently but it has been more than a year since the swashbuckling batsman scored a century in international cricket.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has played some eye-catching knocks recently but it has been more than a year since the swashbuckling batsman scored a century in international cricket. Kohli will be eyeing records held by Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting when he takes the field for the three-match ODI series against England, starting Tuesday in Pune. If Kohli goes on to end his century drought and score a ton against England in the three-ODI series then the Indian skipper will overtake Tendulkar's record of most number of centuries scored on home soil by an Indian batsman in ODI cricket. A century by Kohli in the ODI series will also help him topple Ponting's feat of scoring most centuries scored as captain. Both Ponting and Kohli are currently tied at 22 centuries as captains in international cricket. TRENDING: Watch: Several injured as audience gallery collapses at Junior National Kabaddi Championship Kohli came close to surpassing Ponting's record of scoring the most number of tons as captain during the fifth T20I against England where the Indian skipper smashed an unbeaten 80 off 52 to help India clinch the five-match series 3-2. He was named the Man of the Series in the England T20Is after scoring 231 runs in 5 innings for Team India. Ahead of the ODI series, Kohli was asked about how the team deals with players who are going through a rough patch or are completely out of form to which the Indian skipper said: “I can only think about one thing when people talk about a player is out of form. Kuch toh log kahenge logon ka kaam hain kehna (quoting a Hindi song). There is a lot of impatience outside the cricket set up. People love listening to criticism and it has only increased. ALSO READ: India's Shreyas Iyer signs for English County club Lancashire “In the team, we know how to manage a player going through a tough patch. It is not as if you forget playing the game, it is just that you don't have the same mental clarity that you would usually have and then there is talk about you, which is another external factor you have to deal with. “We will continue to back our players and keep them in good mental space,” he added. India have already defeated England in the Test and T20I series.

IND vs ENG ODIs: Virat Kohli eyes Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting's elusive records

Virat Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. The decision turned out to be a match-winning one as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.&nbsp;

Virat smashed unbeaten 80 runs in 52 balls powering India to a massive total of 224 runs by the end of the first innings. Former England Michael Vaughan captain was impressed by the opening pair and said that they reminded him of ‘Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar’.

“Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck and stumble across the right batting order. India have done that with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma opening. I’m sure that was not their intention at the start of the series. But today they reminded me of Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar. In a T20 inning, you have 120 balls to spread across your players so if you are India then you want Virat and Rohit to face the maximum amount. The rest of the Indian line up can go for it because they know Virat will play in such a solid way,” Vaughan wrote in an article for Telegraph.

“The other three batsmen around Virat today scored 135 runs in 68 balls. He scored 80 off 52 so it was the perfect T20 innings. India learned from the fourth game when Kohli came in and there was not enough time left in the innings.”

Virat Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. The decision turned out to be a match-winning one as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.

Virat Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. The decision turned out to be a match-winning one as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England. Virat smashed unbeaten 80 runs in 52 balls powering India to a massive total of 224 runs by the end of the first innings. Former England Michael Vaughan captain was impressed by the opening pair and said that they reminded him of ‘Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar’. “Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck and stumble across the right batting order. India have done that with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma opening. I’m sure that was not their intention at the start of the series. But today they reminded me of Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar. In a T20 inning, you have 120 balls to spread across your players so if you are India then you want Virat and Rohit to face the maximum amount. The rest of the Indian line up can go for it because they know Virat will play in such a solid way,” Vaughan wrote in an article for Telegraph. “The other three batsmen around Virat today scored 135 runs in 68 balls. He scored 80 off 52 so it was the perfect T20 innings. India learned from the fourth game when Kohli came in and there was not enough time left in the innings.”

'Reminded me of Sehwag and Tendulkar': Michael Vaughan on Team India openers

Virat Kohli on Monday explained why he will be opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli had opened the batting with Rohit Sharma in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad as the duo stitched a 94-run partnership to put India in a strong position. India went on to defeat England to seal the T20I series 3-2 and the Men in Blue would be hoping to carry the good run of form in the ODIs against England, commencing Tuesday in Pune.&nbsp;

In IPL 2016, Kohli had opened the batting for RCB and ended up having his best-ever season in the T20 tournament.&nbsp;He had amassed 973 runs in 16 games at an average of 81.08 and a strike rate of 152.03. However, since then the swashbuckling batsman has continued to bat at number three&nbsp;in the cash-rich tournament.

"Firstly, the combination that plays on the field, the selectors do not have any role in that just like the management does not have any role in who gets selected. Secondly, as Rohit mentioned it was a strategic move, but we did enjoy batting together in the last T20I. We did enjoy our partnership and we saw the effects of us batting together and knowing what we can do to the opposition if we bat throughout. It is not a guarantee that it is going to be continued in the future," said Virat during a virtual press conference on Monday.&nbsp;

Kohli further said that he will open in IPL to understand his role as an opener while opening up a slot for in-form batsman Suryakumar Yadav.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"I am going to open in the IPL to keep all options open. I have batted at three, four and now I need to understand my role as an opener which I have done successfully in the past in T20 cricket so that I provide an option to open up a slot for someone like Surya, if he can continue to bat like that, I should be open to playing any kind of role that the team requires me to. We will have a conversation about this when we get closer to the T20 World Cup. It would be interesting to see how I go about my job as an opener in the IPL,"&nbsp;the Indian skipper added.&nbsp;

When asked whether ODIs have come out of nowhere in the year where the side is preparing for the T20 World Cup, Kohli said: "Look, it is a difficult one. Scheduling is something that is not in our control. For us, in international games, every game is important and every game has value. It is an opportunity to represent your team and for us, that remains the sole focus. Yes, along the way as I have said in the past, scheduling and workload are something everyone will be very aware of. In today's day and age, you never know when restrictions are going to come in and even in the future, you might have to continue playing in bubbles.&nbsp;

"It is important to consider how much cricket you are playing, it is just not about the physical side of things, it is mental side as well. Players need to be spoken to and consulted with all around. Otherwise, it is going to be a case of whoever can last plays and if not, some other player replaces that person and I do not think it is healthy for cricket system and culture going forward," said Kohli.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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After winning the Test and T20I series, India would be hoping to win the three-ODI series against world champions England in Pune starting from Tuesday (March 23).&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's&nbsp;ODI squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), KL Rahul (wicket-keeper),&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Monday explained why he will be opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli had opened the batting with Rohit Sharma in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad as the duo stitched a 94-run partnership to put India in a strong position.

Virat Kohli on Monday explained why he will be opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli had opened the batting with Rohit Sharma in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad as the duo stitched a 94-run partnership to put India in a strong position. India went on to defeat England to seal the T20I series 3-2 and the Men in Blue would be hoping to carry the good run of form in the ODIs against England, commencing Tuesday in Pune. In IPL 2016, Kohli had opened the batting for RCB and ended up having his best-ever season in the T20 tournament. He had amassed 973 runs in 16 games at an average of 81.08 and a strike rate of 152.03. However, since then the swashbuckling batsman has continued to bat at number three in the cash-rich tournament. "Firstly, the combination that plays on the field, the selectors do not have any role in that just like the management does not have any role in who gets selected. Secondly, as Rohit mentioned it was a strategic move, but we did enjoy batting together in the last T20I. We did enjoy our partnership and we saw the effects of us batting together and knowing what we can do to the opposition if we bat throughout. It is not a guarantee that it is going to be continued in the future," said Virat during a virtual press conference on Monday. Kohli further said that he will open in IPL to understand his role as an opener while opening up a slot for in-form batsman Suryakumar Yadav. ALSO READ: 'No doubts about that': Virat Kohli confirms India's opening pair for England ODIs "I am going to open in the IPL to keep all options open. I have batted at three, four and now I need to understand my role as an opener which I have done successfully in the past in T20 cricket so that I provide an option to open up a slot for someone like Surya, if he can continue to bat like that, I should be open to playing any kind of role that the team requires me to. We will have a conversation about this when we get closer to the T20 World Cup. It would be interesting to see how I go about my job as an opener in the IPL," the Indian skipper added. When asked whether ODIs have come out of nowhere in the year where the side is preparing for the T20 World Cup, Kohli said: "Look, it is a difficult one. Scheduling is something that is not in our control. For us, in international games, every game is important and every game has value. It is an opportunity to represent your team and for us, that remains the sole focus. Yes, along the way as I have said in the past, scheduling and workload are something everyone will be very aware of. In today's day and age, you never know when restrictions are going to come in and even in the future, you might have to continue playing in bubbles. "It is important to consider how much cricket you are playing, it is just not about the physical side of things, it is mental side as well. Players need to be spoken to and consulted with all around. Otherwise, it is going to be a case of whoever can last plays and if not, some other player replaces that person and I do not think it is healthy for cricket system and culture going forward," said Kohli. ALSO READ: 'It all depends on...': Eoin Morgan provides update on Jofra Archer's chances of playing in IPL 2021 After winning the Test and T20I series, India would be hoping to win the three-ODI series against world champions England in Pune starting from Tuesday (March 23). India's ODI squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur.

Virat Kohli explains why he will be opening for RCB in IPL 2021

One of the biggest positives for the Indian cricket team from the recently concluded five-match T20I series against England has been the comeback of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The veteran seamer, returning back to the team after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, not only bowled some fantastic spells but also&nbsp;helped India win the final match to clinch the series 3-2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has lauded skipper Virat Kohli for&nbsp;handling Bhuvneshwar Kumar to perfection while also heaping praise for giving the ball to the veteran seamer in the 13th&nbsp;over of the match – one which changed the course of the run-chase by England.&nbsp;

India ended up scoring a massive 224/8 in 20 overs in the fifth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While Bhuvneshwar started the rout, with the ball, by dismissing Jason Roy in the first over, the 130-run partnership between Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan kept everyone at the edge of their seats.&nbsp;

Kohli handed over the ball to&nbsp;Bhuvneswar&nbsp;in the 13th&nbsp;over and the veteran seamer started to set up Buttler with some slower ones before the England batsman skied it in the fifth ball of the match. England's run-chase derailed after Buttler's dismissal as the visitors conceded the match by 36 runs.&nbsp;

"It was an unbelievable over. And good captaincy from Virat Kohli as well to bring him on in the 13th over. Because the run chase was absolutely on. He can just mix up his deliveries," Gambhir&nbsp;told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

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"I remember one reverse sweep which Jos Buttler missed, it was just a quicker one, and a yorker, and one wide outside the off-stump. He used all the variations he had to the best of his abilities, and it was the turning point of the game," Gambhir added.&nbsp;

The former India batsman further explained&nbsp;why&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar&nbsp;is so successful with the new ball.&nbsp;

"I think it's difficult to play swing bowlers as compared to seam bowlers in T20 cricket. Because with seam bowlers you can actually see the line and hit through the line. But if its swinging both ways, you would have to wait a little longer. And that is why Bhuvneshwar Kumar is so dangerous with the new ball. He can swing the ball both ways," he said.&nbsp;

"Bhuvneshwar Kumar is very, very important to the team. There will always be times when we will discuss Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, and Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, because of their flamboyance and stuff. But there are people like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who are very useful and always go under the radar. But these are just as important as these guys.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"Look at what he did today (in 5th T20I). It was unbelievable on a wicket where more than 400 runs were scored. When he started, everyone said he is just a new-ball bowler. But he has developed as a great death bowler as well. Imagine Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Bhuvneshwar bowling together in the death overs," Gambhir pointed out.&nbsp;

"I always believe these guys who go under the radar should always be given appreciation for their contribution. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is one of the great assets to Indian cricket. He can't bowl at 145kph, but he has other abilities and he uses it to the best of his abilities," he signed off.&nbsp;

After winning the Test and T20I series, India would be looking to sweep the tour by winning the three-match ODI series starting from March 23 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune.&nbsp;

One of the biggest positives for the Indian cricket team from the recently concluded five-match T20I series against England has been the comeback of Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

One of the biggest positives for the Indian cricket team from the recently concluded five-match T20I series against England has been the comeback of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The veteran seamer, returning back to the team after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, not only bowled some fantastic spells but also helped India win the final match to clinch the series 3-2. Former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has lauded skipper Virat Kohli for handling Bhuvneshwar Kumar to perfection while also heaping praise for giving the ball to the veteran seamer in the 13th over of the match – one which changed the course of the run-chase by England. India ended up scoring a massive 224/8 in 20 overs in the fifth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While Bhuvneshwar started the rout, with the ball, by dismissing Jason Roy in the first over, the 130-run partnership between Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan kept everyone at the edge of their seats. Kohli handed over the ball to Bhuvneswar in the 13th over and the veteran seamer started to set up Buttler with some slower ones before the England batsman skied it in the fifth ball of the match. England's run-chase derailed after Buttler's dismissal as the visitors conceded the match by 36 runs. "It was an unbelievable over. And good captaincy from Virat Kohli as well to bring him on in the 13th over. Because the run chase was absolutely on. He can just mix up his deliveries," Gambhir told ESPNCricinfo. ALSO READ: Zaheer Khan feels this player 'made it possible for Virat Kohli to open innings' "I remember one reverse sweep which Jos Buttler missed, it was just a quicker one, and a yorker, and one wide outside the off-stump. He used all the variations he had to the best of his abilities, and it was the turning point of the game," Gambhir added. The former India batsman further explained why Bhuvneshwar is so successful with the new ball. "I think it's difficult to play swing bowlers as compared to seam bowlers in T20 cricket. Because with seam bowlers you can actually see the line and hit through the line. But if its swinging both ways, you would have to wait a little longer. And that is why Bhuvneshwar Kumar is so dangerous with the new ball. He can swing the ball both ways," he said. "Bhuvneshwar Kumar is very, very important to the team. There will always be times when we will discuss Jasprit Bumrah, and Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, because of their flamboyance and stuff. But there are people like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who are very useful and always go under the radar. But these are just as important as these guys. ALSO READ: 'It made no sense not having India and Pakistan series': Ramiz Raja on WTC "Look at what he did today (in 5th T20I). It was unbelievable on a wicket where more than 400 runs were scored. When he started, everyone said he is just a new-ball bowler. But he has developed as a great death bowler as well. Imagine Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar bowling together in the death overs," Gambhir pointed out. "I always believe these guys who go under the radar should always be given appreciation for their contribution. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is one of the great assets to Indian cricket. He can't bowl at 145kph, but he has other abilities and he uses it to the best of his abilities," he signed off. After winning the Test and T20I series, India would be looking to sweep the tour by winning the three-match ODI series starting from March 23 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune.

'Good captaincy from Virat Kohli...': Gautam Gambhir mentions 'turning point' of 5th T20I vs England

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sky-is-some-player-ian-bishop-lauds-suryakumar-yadavs-innings-in-fifth-t20i-372018" hreflang="en">'Sky is some player': Ian Bishop lauds Suryakumar Yadav's innings in fifth T20I</a>

Skipper smashed an unbeaten 80 runs to power India to 224. He opened the innings for India after three years. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar urged Kohli to continue to open as Team India needs their best batsman ‘to bat as many overs’ as he can.

"Your best batsman should bat the most number of overs in limited-overs cricket. So it was very important for Virat Kohli to bat at the top of the order. So maybe, KL Rahul’s loss of form has been a blessing in disguise because this has given us an opening combination to look forward to.

"Like when Sachin Tendulkar was batting down the order in ODIs and then he was sent up to open the batting and what a transformation it had not just on his batting but the whole team. So clearly, your best batsman have to bat as many overs as they can," Gavaskar told India Today.

Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls. Rohit Sharma gave India a great start as he smashed 64 runs in 34 balls. Suryakumar Yadav's cameo of 32 runs in 17 balls powered India to a mammoth score of 224 runs on the board.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England. ALSO READ: 'Sky is some player': Ian Bishop lauds Suryakumar Yadav's innings in fifth T20I Skipper smashed an unbeaten 80 runs to power India to 224. He opened the innings for India after three years. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar urged Kohli to continue to open as Team India needs their best batsman ‘to bat as many overs’ as he can. "Your best batsman should bat the most number of overs in limited-overs cricket. So it was very important for Virat Kohli to bat at the top of the order. So maybe, KL Rahul’s loss of form has been a blessing in disguise because this has given us an opening combination to look forward to. "Like when Sachin Tendulkar was batting down the order in ODIs and then he was sent up to open the batting and what a transformation it had not just on his batting but the whole team. So clearly, your best batsman have to bat as many overs as they can," Gavaskar told India Today. Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls. Rohit Sharma gave India a great start as he smashed 64 runs in 34 balls. Suryakumar Yadav's cameo of 32 runs in 17 balls powered India to a mammoth score of 224 runs on the board.

'Like when Sachin Tendulkar...': Sunil Gavaskar talks about Virat Kohli as an opener

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lauded his team's batting performance in the series finale against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday.

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Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls. Rohit Sharma gave India&nbsp;a great start as he smashed 64 runs in 34 balls. Suryakumar Yadav's cameo of 32 runs in 17 balls powered India to a mammoth score of 225 runs on the board.&nbsp;

"It was a complete game for us. Totally outplayed the opposition. Even with so much dew coming in, like last game we've defended the total again. Today was a complete game. Despite Rishabh and Iyer not getting a chance we put on 225. Testimony to our batting depth," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"Today Rohit and me were both positive in our intent. We knew we could trust each other and one of us can play second fiddle if one takes off. Today it was classic Rohit Sharma. And then Surya coming in at three and taking the game even further away," he added.

Hardik Pandya's power hitting in the final moments put India in the driver's seat.&nbsp;

"Then Hardik finishing it," Kohli further added.

"I was particularly pleased with Surya. Bhuvi coming back and bowling like that. Still have Jassi to come back. Don't have much in terms of negatives. Pant showed a lot of maturity through the series as well," Kohli went on talking about the positives from the series.

"Confidence level of Thakur after that series in Australia is sky high. With the ball his strength is his belief. He is a proper cricketer," Kohli added.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lauded his team's batting performance in the series finale against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli leads from front, India clinch T20 series against England Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lauded his team's batting performance in the series finale against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli leads from front, India clinch T20 series against England Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls. Rohit Sharma gave India a great start as he smashed 64 runs in 34 balls. Suryakumar Yadav's cameo of 32 runs in 17 balls powered India to a mammoth score of 225 runs on the board. "It was a complete game for us. Totally outplayed the opposition. Even with so much dew coming in, like last game we've defended the total again. Today was a complete game. Despite Rishabh and Iyer not getting a chance we put on 225. Testimony to our batting depth," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "Today Rohit and me were both positive in our intent. We knew we could trust each other and one of us can play second fiddle if one takes off. Today it was classic Rohit Sharma. And then Surya coming in at three and taking the game even further away," he added. Hardik Pandya's power hitting in the final moments put India in the driver's seat. "Then Hardik finishing it," Kohli further added. "I was particularly pleased with Surya. Bhuvi coming back and bowling like that. Still have Jassi to come back. Don't have much in terms of negatives. Pant showed a lot of maturity through the series as well," Kohli went on talking about the positives from the series. "Confidence level of Thakur after that series in Australia is sky high. With the ball his strength is his belief. He is a proper cricketer," Kohli added.

'A complete game': Virat Kohli lauds India's batting effort against England in 5th T20I

Virat Kohli led from the front as India prevailed in a high-scoring decider, beating England by 36 runs in the final Twenty20 International to complete a 3-2 series victory on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma smashed 64 and Kohli remained not out on 80 to power India to 224-2, their highest total against England after being put into bat.

Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler struck half-centuries to fuel England's chase before India's seam bowlers took the game away from them.

Earlier, Kohli passed a fitness test and promoted himself to open the innings with deputy Rohit.

One of the game's cleanest strikers of the ball, Rohit looked in sublime form, smashing five sixes in his 34-ball blitz.

Ben Stokes ended the 94-run stand with a leg-cutter which Rohit chopped onto his stumps while attempting a pull-shot.

Suryakumar Yadav belted 32 before Chris Jordan's athleticism and presence of mind sent him back.

Stationed at long on, Jordan sprinted to his right to take a running one-handed catch and threw the ball to a grinning Jason Roy just before momentum took him over the ropes.

Kohli, who had been watching the batting carnage from the other end, accelerated in company of Hardik Pandya who made a quickfire 39.

Roy fell for a duck when England began their chase but Dawid Malan (68) and Jos Buttler (52) launched a spectacular assault to shrug off the setback.

Malan, the top-ranked batsmen in this format, roared back into form, forging a 130-run partnership with Buttler.

Kumar returned to send back Buttler, and Shardul Thakur dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Malan in the same over to turn the match on its head.

T Natarajan dismissed Stokes for 14 in the penultimate over to effectively seal the match in India's favour and England finished on 188-8.

The teams now move to Pune where they will play a three-match one-day series from Tuesday.

Virat Kohli led from the front as India prevailed in a high-scoring decider, beating England by 36 runs in the final Twenty20 International to complete a 3-2 series victory on Saturday.

Virat Kohli led from the front as India prevailed in a high-scoring decider, beating England by 36 runs in the final Twenty20 International to complete a 3-2 series victory on Saturday. Rohit Sharma smashed 64 and Kohli remained not out on 80 to power India to 224-2, their highest total against England after being put into bat. Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler struck half-centuries to fuel England's chase before India's seam bowlers took the game away from them. Earlier, Kohli passed a fitness test and promoted himself to open the innings with deputy Rohit. One of the game's cleanest strikers of the ball, Rohit looked in sublime form, smashing five sixes in his 34-ball blitz. Ben Stokes ended the 94-run stand with a leg-cutter which Rohit chopped onto his stumps while attempting a pull-shot. Suryakumar Yadav belted 32 before Chris Jordan's athleticism and presence of mind sent him back. Stationed at long on, Jordan sprinted to his right to take a running one-handed catch and threw the ball to a grinning Jason Roy just before momentum took him over the ropes. Kohli, who had been watching the batting carnage from the other end, accelerated in company of Hardik Pandya who made a quickfire 39. Roy fell for a duck when England began their chase but Dawid Malan (68) and Jos Buttler (52) launched a spectacular assault to shrug off the setback. Malan, the top-ranked batsmen in this format, roared back into form, forging a 130-run partnership with Buttler. Kumar returned to send back Buttler, and Shardul Thakur dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Malan in the same over to turn the match on its head. T Natarajan dismissed Stokes for 14 in the penultimate over to effectively seal the match in India's favour and England finished on 188-8. The teams now move to Pune where they will play a three-match one-day series from Tuesday.

Virat Kohli leads from front, India clinch T20 series against England

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.&nbsp;

Skipper smashed an unbeaten 80 runs to power India to 224. He opened the innings for India after three years. He revealed his plans regarding the opening for India in T20Is in future.&nbsp;

It was the eighth time in 84 innings that skipper Kohli opened the batting, but what worked against the world's top-ranked team should succeed in the format's showcase tournament as well, said the 32-year-old.

"I am going to open in the IPL as well," Kohli, who leads Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, said at the presentation ceremony after India clinched the decider by 36 runs.

"I've batted at different positions in the past, but I feel we have a very solid middle order, and now it's about your two best players getting the maximum number of balls in T20 cricket.

"So I would definitely like to partner Rohit at the top."

"If we have a partnership and we both are set, then you know that one of us is going to cause some serious damage. That's exactly what we want."

"It augurs well for the team and I would like this to continue, and hopefully continue that form through to the World Cup."

Virat Kohli coming in as opener turned out to be a match-winning decision as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England. Skipper smashed an unbeaten 80 runs to power India to 224. He opened the innings for India after three years. He revealed his plans regarding the opening for India in T20Is in future. It was the eighth time in 84 innings that skipper Kohli opened the batting, but what worked against the world's top-ranked team should succeed in the format's showcase tournament as well, said the 32-year-old. "I am going to open in the IPL as well," Kohli, who leads Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, said at the presentation ceremony after India clinched the decider by 36 runs. "I've batted at different positions in the past, but I feel we have a very solid middle order, and now it's about your two best players getting the maximum number of balls in T20 cricket. "So I would definitely like to partner Rohit at the top." "If we have a partnership and we both are set, then you know that one of us is going to cause some serious damage. That's exactly what we want." "It augurs well for the team and I would like this to continue, and hopefully continue that form through to the World Cup."

'I would definitely like...': Virat Kohli on opening the innings for Team India in future

Virat Kohli's Team India are set to lock horns with Eoin Morgan's England in the series finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ramiz-raja-calls-former-pakistan-skipper-misbah-ul-haq-poor-mans-ms-dhoni-371882" hreflang="en">Ramiz Raja calls former Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq 'poor man's MS Dhoni'</a>

Both teams are tied up 2-2 and will be getting their best playing XI on the field to seal the deal. Suryakumar Yadav's blistering knock in the fourth T20I will cement his place for the fifth game. Ishan Kishan, who missed the fourth T20I due to a groin injury, will be expected to return for this clash.&nbsp;

KL Rahul has not been in form, he entered the double digits in the previous match so he is likely to be rested for the fifth match.&nbsp;

India's pacers did a brilliant job in the last match and ensured their win against England. Washington Sundar struggled to perform in the match but is still expected to feature in the match. Rahul Chahar could again find a place in the playing XI.&nbsp;

India's possible XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul/Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar.

England, on the other hand, could drop Dawid Malan as the batsman has failed to perform in the series and Sam Billings can be brought in his place.&nbsp;

England's possible XI: Jason Roy, Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Billings, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Eoin Morgan (c), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Adil Rashid.

Squads: 
England Squad: Jason Roy, Jos Buttler(w), Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Eoin Morgan(c), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Tom Curran, Moeen Ali, Sam Billings, Reece Topley, Liam Livingstone

India Squad: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ishan Kishan, Axar Patel, Shikhar Dhawan, Deepak Chahar, Rahul Tewatia, Navdeep Saini, T Natarajan

Virat Kohli's Team India are set to lock horns with Eoin Morgan's England in the series finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: Ramiz Raja calls former Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq 'poor man's MS Dhoni' Both teams are tied up 2-2 and will be getting their best playing XI on the field to seal the deal.

Virat Kohli's Team India are set to lock horns with Eoin Morgan's England in the series finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: Ramiz Raja calls former Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq 'poor man's MS Dhoni' Both teams are tied up 2-2 and will be getting their best playing XI on the field to seal the deal. Suryakumar Yadav's blistering knock in the fourth T20I will cement his place for the fifth game. Ishan Kishan, who missed the fourth T20I due to a groin injury, will be expected to return for this clash. KL Rahul has not been in form, he entered the double digits in the previous match so he is likely to be rested for the fifth match. India's pacers did a brilliant job in the last match and ensured their win against England. Washington Sundar struggled to perform in the match but is still expected to feature in the match. Rahul Chahar could again find a place in the playing XI. India's possible XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul/Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar. England, on the other hand, could drop Dawid Malan as the batsman has failed to perform in the series and Sam Billings can be brought in his place. England's possible XI: Jason Roy, Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Billings, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Eoin Morgan (c), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Adil Rashid. Squads: England Squad: Jason Roy, Jos Buttler(w), Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Eoin Morgan(c), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Tom Curran, Moeen Ali, Sam Billings, Reece Topley, Liam Livingstone India Squad: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ishan Kishan, Axar Patel, Shikhar Dhawan, Deepak Chahar, Rahul Tewatia, Navdeep Saini, T Natarajan

IND vs ENG, 5th T20I- Ishan Kishan in? KL Rahul out?: Predicted XI for India vs England

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday said that the on-field umpires should have the option to say "I don't know" in a TV referral after a debate erupted over a catch by England's Dawid Malan which resulted in the dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav in&nbsp;the fourth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Suryakumar Yadav, who played a flamboyant knock of 57, was given out by the third-umpire following a controversial catch taken by Malan in the deep. The replays suggested that the ball had touched the ground but third umpire Virender Sharma&nbsp;thought it was inconclusive and upheld the on-field umpire's 'soft-signal' of out.&nbsp;

"When there's a half-and-half effort the soft signal becomes more important. I don't know why there can't be an 'I don't know' call for the umpires," Kohli said on the decision after his&nbsp;India's eight-run win.&nbsp;

"These are decisions that can change the course of the game, especially in these big games. We were on the receiving side today, and tomorrow it could be some other team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-west-indies-chris-gayle-thanks-pm-narendra-modi-for-covid-19-vaccine-donation-to-jamaica-371671" hreflang="en">Watch: West Indies' Chris Gayle thanks PM Narendra Modi for COVID-19 vaccine donation to Jamaica</a>

"You want these ironed out and keep the game really simple and linear. It isn't ideal in high-pressure games and we want a lot of clarity on the field."&nbsp;

Suryakumar, who was named man of the match for his 31-ball blitz, said he had no&nbsp;problem's&nbsp;with the call and he took the decision in his stride&nbsp;as it was not in his hands.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The catch remained the talking point as pundits debated Malan's effort.&nbsp;

"How can this be out," cricketer-turned-commentator VVS Laxman wrote on Twitter with a still of Malan taking the catch.&nbsp;

"When you are not sure whether the ball was taken cleanly after watching so many replays using top-class technology and still go by the soft signal given by the on-field umpire. I think this rule needs to be revisited and changed."&nbsp;

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How can this be out. When you are not sure whether the ball was taken cleanly after watching so many replays using top class technology and still go by the soft signal given by the on-field umpire. I think this rule needs to be revisited and changed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/b5XMdH8qEz">pic.twitter.com/b5XMdH8qEz</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1372566795266138116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former England captain Michael Vaughan said the catch was clean but the 'soft signal' in cricket needs to be looked at.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-name-suryakumar-yadav-prasidh-krishna-for-england-odis-check-full-squad-371614" hreflang="en">India name Suryakumar Yadav, Prasidh Krishna for England ODIs - Check full squad</a>

"I thought Dawid Malan took that catch," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

"Once that soft signal had been given out, he (on-field umpire) had to give it out because he did not have enough evidence to prove that he hadn't caught it. I just don't like the soft signal in the middle for catches on the boundary."&nbsp;

The fifth and series-deciding match between India and England is set to be played on Saturday at the same venue.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday said that the on-field umpires should have the option to say "I don't know" in a TV referral after a debate erupted over a catch by England's Dawid Malan which resulted in the dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav in the fourth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday said that the on-field umpires should have the option to say "I don't know" in a TV referral after a debate erupted over a catch by England's Dawid Malan which resulted in the dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav in the fourth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who played a flamboyant knock of 57, was given out by the third-umpire following a controversial catch taken by Malan in the deep. The replays suggested that the ball had touched the ground but third umpire Virender Sharma thought it was inconclusive and upheld the on-field umpire's 'soft-signal' of out. "When there's a half-and-half effort the soft signal becomes more important. I don't know why there can't be an 'I don't know' call for the umpires," Kohli said on the decision after his India's eight-run win. "These are decisions that can change the course of the game, especially in these big games. We were on the receiving side today, and tomorrow it could be some other team. ALSO READ: Watch: West Indies' Chris Gayle thanks PM Narendra Modi for COVID-19 vaccine donation to Jamaica "You want these ironed out and keep the game really simple and linear. It isn't ideal in high-pressure games and we want a lot of clarity on the field." Suryakumar, who was named man of the match for his 31-ball blitz, said he had no problem's with the call and he took the decision in his stride as it was not in his hands. The catch remained the talking point as pundits debated Malan's effort. "How can this be out," cricketer-turned-commentator VVS Laxman wrote on Twitter with a still of Malan taking the catch. "When you are not sure whether the ball was taken cleanly after watching so many replays using top-class technology and still go by the soft signal given by the on-field umpire. I think this rule needs to be revisited and changed." How can this be out. When you are not sure whether the ball was taken cleanly after watching so many replays using top class technology and still go by the soft signal given by the on-field umpire. I think this rule needs to be revisited and changed. #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/b5XMdH8qEz — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) March 18, 2021 × Former England captain Michael Vaughan said the catch was clean but the 'soft signal' in cricket needs to be looked at. ALSO READ: India name Suryakumar Yadav, Prasidh Krishna for England ODIs - Check full squad "I thought Dawid Malan took that catch," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz. "Once that soft signal had been given out, he (on-field umpire) had to give it out because he did not have enough evidence to prove that he hadn't caught it. I just don't like the soft signal in the middle for catches on the boundary." The fifth and series-deciding match between India and England is set to be played on Saturday at the same venue.

'Why can't there be 'I don't know' call for umpires,' asks Virat Kohli after catch controversy

Jos Buttler's blistering 83 not out trumped Virat Kohli's majestic half-century as&nbsp;England&nbsp;beat India by eight wickets in the third Twenty20 International to go 2-1 up in the five-match series in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

Kohli struck an unbeaten 77 off 46 balls to rescue India from a top-order collapse and help them to a competitive 156-6.

England&nbsp;overwhelmed the target with 10 balls to spare with Buttler smashing four sixes and five fours in his blistering 52-ball knock.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-joins-kane-williamson-in-elite-list-after-achieving-iconic-landmark-in-t20i-cricket-370964" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli joins Kane Williamson in elite list after achieving iconic landmark in T20I cricket</a>

Earlier put in to bat, India got off to a horror start mirroring their batting struggle in the series opener.

Their top order batsmen looked in discomfort against the pace and bounce of Mark Wood (3-31) and Jofra Archer.

Archer floored a return catch to reprieve Rohit Sharma off his first ball but&nbsp;England&nbsp;did not have to wait long for a breakthrough.

Wood breached KL Rahul's defence with an express delivery in the third over, dismissing the opener for his second successive duck in the series.

If pace got rid of Rahul, bounce did the trick against Rohit and Ishan Kishan.

India were 24-3 after the six powerplay overs and 55-3 at the halfway stage of their innings before Kohli counter-attacked.

The home captain smashed four sixes and eight boundaries as the hosts milked 56 runs off the last four overs.

England&nbsp;began cautiously and lost Jason Roy early after the opener played a reverse-sweep against Yuzvendra Chahal.

Buttler smashed a couple of sixes in that over and raced to a 26-ball fifty with his sustained aggression.

The English batsman got a life on 76, when Kohli, usually a safe catcher, dropped him at point after he had played a reverse-sweep.

Jonny Bairstow's unbeaten 40 included the winning boundary.

Ahmedabad hosts all five matches with the fourth Twenty20 International scheduled on Thursday.

The last three matches are being played behind closed doors following a rise in COVID-19 cases in the state of Gujarat.

Jos Buttler's blistering 83 not out trumped Virat Kohli's majestic half-century as England beat India by eight wickets in the third Twenty20 International to go 2-1 up in the five-match series in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

Jos Buttler's blistering 83 not out trumped Virat Kohli's majestic half-century as England beat India by eight wickets in the third Twenty20 International to go 2-1 up in the five-match series in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. Kohli struck an unbeaten 77 off 46 balls to rescue India from a top-order collapse and help them to a competitive 156-6. England overwhelmed the target with 10 balls to spare with Buttler smashing four sixes and five fours in his blistering 52-ball knock. Also read| Virat Kohli joins Kane Williamson in elite list after achieving iconic landmark in T20I cricket Earlier put in to bat, India got off to a horror start mirroring their batting struggle in the series opener. Their top order batsmen looked in discomfort against the pace and bounce of Mark Wood (3-31) and Jofra Archer. Archer floored a return catch to reprieve Rohit Sharma off his first ball but England did not have to wait long for a breakthrough. Wood breached KL Rahul's defence with an express delivery in the third over, dismissing the opener for his second successive duck in the series. If pace got rid of Rahul, bounce did the trick against Rohit and Ishan Kishan. India were 24-3 after the six powerplay overs and 55-3 at the halfway stage of their innings before Kohli counter-attacked. The home captain smashed four sixes and eight boundaries as the hosts milked 56 runs off the last four overs. England began cautiously and lost Jason Roy early after the opener played a reverse-sweep against Yuzvendra Chahal. Buttler smashed a couple of sixes in that over and raced to a 26-ball fifty with his sustained aggression. The English batsman got a life on 76, when Kohli, usually a safe catcher, dropped him at point after he had played a reverse-sweep. Jonny Bairstow's unbeaten 40 included the winning boundary. Ahmedabad hosts all five matches with the fourth Twenty20 International scheduled on Thursday. The last three matches are being played behind closed doors following a rise in COVID-19 cases in the state of Gujarat.

Buttler blitz trumps Kohli knock as England reclaim series lead

Virat Kohli on Tuesday produced batting of the highest&nbsp;calibre&nbsp;as he hammered an unbeaten 77 off 46 deliveries&nbsp;to help India post a competitive target of 156-6 in 20 overs in the third T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the cracking half-century, Kohli&nbsp;equalled&nbsp;New Zealand captain Kane Williamson's record&nbsp;of scoring&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of half-centuries by a captain in T20I&nbsp;cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both Kohli and Williamson now have 11 fifties as captain of their respective sides in the shortest format of the game. In total, Kohli has now scored 27 T20I half-centuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a tricky start, where India lost a few quick wickets up front in the third T20I, Kohli brought his A-game on the field as he recorded his second T20I half-century on the bounce.&nbsp;Notably, Kohli hit 49 runs in his last 17 balls in what can be called as breathtaking knock by the Indian skipper.&nbsp;

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Kohli now has been part of 10 instances of scoring two consecutive 50+ scores in T20Is. The likes of Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill and Brendon McCullum have scored&nbsp;back-to-back&nbsp;half-centuries in T20Is only six times.&nbsp;

It was also the first time since T20 World Cup in 2016 that Kohli smashed back-to-back half-centuries in T20Is. The Indian skipper had scored 73not-out&nbsp;off&nbsp;49&nbsp;deliveries&nbsp;in the&nbsp;second T20I against England which India won by seven wickets.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;were&nbsp;reeling at 87 for 5 at the end of the 15th over but they ended up with 156&nbsp;on the scoreboard courtesy the master knock by Kohli.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-blessed-to-have-2-players-like-ms-dhoni-in-rishabh-pant-and-ishan-kishan-says-saba-karim-370885" hreflang="en">India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim</a>

“We want to work on setting targets as well, in preparation for the future. England is going to come out hard, and we have to bring our A-game. Crowds are important, but we have to be professional and go out and give it our best in whatever conditions we have been given,” Kohli said at the toss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Tuesday produced batting of the highest calibre as he hammered an unbeaten 77 off 46 deliveries to help India post a competitive target of 156-6 in 20 overs in the third T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli on Tuesday produced batting of the highest calibre as he hammered an unbeaten 77 off 46 deliveries to help India post a competitive target of 156-6 in 20 overs in the third T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the cracking half-century, Kohli equalled New Zealand captain Kane Williamson's record of scoring the most number of half-centuries by a captain in T20I cricket. Both Kohli and Williamson now have 11 fifties as captain of their respective sides in the shortest format of the game. In total, Kohli has now scored 27 T20I half-centuries. After a tricky start, where India lost a few quick wickets up front in the third T20I, Kohli brought his A-game on the field as he recorded his second T20I half-century on the bounce. Notably, Kohli hit 49 runs in his last 17 balls in what can be called as breathtaking knock by the Indian skipper. ALSO READ: What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof Kohli now has been part of 10 instances of scoring two consecutive 50+ scores in T20Is. The likes of Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill and Brendon McCullum have scored back-to-back half-centuries in T20Is only six times. It was also the first time since T20 World Cup in 2016 that Kohli smashed back-to-back half-centuries in T20Is. The Indian skipper had scored 73not-out off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England which India won by seven wickets. India were reeling at 87 for 5 at the end of the 15th over but they ended up with 156 on the scoreboard courtesy the master knock by Kohli. ALSO READ: India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim “We want to work on setting targets as well, in preparation for the future. England is going to come out hard, and we have to bring our A-game. Crowds are important, but we have to be professional and go out and give it our best in whatever conditions we have been given,” Kohli said at the toss.

Virat Kohli joins Kane Williamson in elite list after achieving iconic landmark in T20I cricket

Virat Kohli continues to shatter the record books as on Sunday the Indian skipper became the first-ever player to score 3000 international runs following his unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Courtesy half-centuries by debutant Ishan Kishan and Kohli, India chased down a target of 165 runs in 17.5 overs to&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the five-match series 1-1.&nbsp;

Kohli, who was 72 runs away from the iconic landmark of scoring 3000 T20I runs, hammered an unbeaten 73 to become the first-ever player to amass 3000 T20I runs. The Indian skipper finished the match off in style with two glorious strokes – a flicked boundary and a pulled six off Chris Jordan.&nbsp;

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The Indian skipper now has scored 6001 runs in 87 T20Is since making his debut in Zimbabwe in 2010. He now is the only player to have an average of 50+ in all three formats of the game.&nbsp;

Moreover, Kohli is also the leading run-scorer in the Indian&nbsp;Premier&nbsp;League (IPL) with as many as 5878 runs in 192 matches.&nbsp;

Kohli, who recorded a duck in the first T20I against England, said he shifted his focus back on the basics of the game after having a chat with former South Africa captain and RCB team-mate AB de Villiers before the match.&nbsp;

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“I had to shift the focus back to the basics of the game and I always take pride in doing the job for the team. Just kept my eyes on the ball and my wife is here and she keeps telling me a lot of things about what I need to do. We have great management that keeps us in the right space. And&nbsp;also&nbsp;I had a special chat with ABD before the start of the game and he just told me to watch the ball. That's exactly what I did,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli continues to shatter the record books as on Sunday the Indian skipper became the first-ever player to score 3000 international runs following his unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli continues to shatter the record books as on Sunday the Indian skipper became the first-ever player to score 3000 international runs following his unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Courtesy half-centuries by debutant Ishan Kishan and Kohli, India chased down a target of 165 runs in 17.5 overs to equalise the five-match series 1-1. Kohli, who was 72 runs away from the iconic landmark of scoring 3000 T20I runs, hammered an unbeaten 73 to become the first-ever player to amass 3000 T20I runs. The Indian skipper finished the match off in style with two glorious strokes – a flicked boundary and a pulled six off Chris Jordan. ALSO READ: 'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form The Indian skipper now has scored 6001 runs in 87 T20Is since making his debut in Zimbabwe in 2010. He now is the only player to have an average of 50+ in all three formats of the game. Moreover, Kohli is also the leading run-scorer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with as many as 5878 runs in 192 matches. Kohli, who recorded a duck in the first T20I against England, said he shifted his focus back on the basics of the game after having a chat with former South Africa captain and RCB team-mate AB de Villiers before the match. ALSO READ: 'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form “I had to shift the focus back to the basics of the game and I always take pride in doing the job for the team. Just kept my eyes on the ball and my wife is here and she keeps telling me a lot of things about what I need to do. We have great management that keeps us in the right space. And also I had a special chat with ABD before the start of the game and he just told me to watch the ball. That's exactly what I did,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation.

Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket

India skipper Virat Kohli led from the front while Ishan Kishan scored a magnificent half-century on debut as hosts registered a seven-wicket win over England in the second T20I here at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday evening.

With this win, the hosts levelled the five-match series 1-1. Kohli played an unbeaten knock of 73 runs while Kishan scored 56 runs. Chasing the target of 165, India once again witnessed a poor start with KL Rahul being dismissed in the very first over of the innings. Rahul (0) was caught behind off Sam Curran`s delivery.

Opener Kishan was then joined by Kohli on the field. The duo played with an attacking mindset and the team touched the 50-run mark in the sixth over. In the 10th over, the debutant smashed two back-to-back sixes to Adil Rashid to bring his maiden international half century.

However, in the same over, Rashid made a comeback and dismissed Kishan on the last bowl of the over which brought Rishabh Pant out in the middle. Pant scored 26 runs off just 13 balls before getting out. Kohli was then accompanied by Shreyas Iyer. Just like Kishan, Kohli also completed his half-century by hitting an impressive six as India inched closer to the target. Continuing his stunning form, Kohli easily took the team over the line in the 18th over.

Earlier, a perfect display of death bowling helped India restrict England to 164/6. Put in to bat, England didn`t have a great start as Bhuvneshwar Kumar had Jos Buttler (0) adjudged leg before wicket on just the third ball of the innings. Dawid Malan then joined Jason Roy in the middle and the duo revived the innings for the visitors, taking the score to 44/1 after the end of the powerplay.

Malan and Roy eventually stitched a 63-run stand for the second wicket which came to an end in the ninth over after leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal had Malan (24) adjudged leg-before wicket, reducing England to 64/2.

Roy (46), for the second time in a row, then missed out on his half-century as he was sent back to the pavilion in the 12th over by Washington Sundar. The right-handed batsman went for a big shot, but he ended up holding out to Bhuvneshwar in the deep. Jonny Bairstow (20) got a reprieve in the 14th over of the innings, but he was sent back to the dressing room in the very same over by Sundar.

In the final four overs, the hosts conceded just 28 runs and as a result, England was restricted under the 170-run mark. For the hosts, Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur returned with two wickets. Ben Stokes was dismissed after playing a knock of 24 while Sam Curran remained unbeaten on 6. Skipper Eoin Morgan also contributed with 28.

The two teams will now take on each other in the third T20I on Tuesday. Brief Scores: England 164/6 (Jason Roy 46, Eoin Morgan 28, Shardul Thakur 2-29) vs India 166/3 (Virat Kohli 73*, Ishan Kishan 56; Sam Curran 1-22).

India skipper Virat Kohli led from the front while Ishan Kishan scored a magnificent half-century on debut as hosts registered a seven-wicket win over England in the second T20I here at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday evening.

India skipper Virat Kohli led from the front while Ishan Kishan scored a magnificent half-century on debut as hosts registered a seven-wicket win over England in the second T20I here at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday evening. With this win, the hosts levelled the five-match series 1-1. Kohli played an unbeaten knock of 73 runs while Kishan scored 56 runs. Chasing the target of 165, India once again witnessed a poor start with KL Rahul being dismissed in the very first over of the innings. Rahul (0) was caught behind off Sam Curran`s delivery. Opener Kishan was then joined by Kohli on the field. The duo played with an attacking mindset and the team touched the 50-run mark in the sixth over. In the 10th over, the debutant smashed two back-to-back sixes to Adil Rashid to bring his maiden international half century. However, in the same over, Rashid made a comeback and dismissed Kishan on the last bowl of the over which brought Rishabh Pant out in the middle. Pant scored 26 runs off just 13 balls before getting out. Kohli was then accompanied by Shreyas Iyer. Just like Kishan, Kohli also completed his half-century by hitting an impressive six as India inched closer to the target. Continuing his stunning form, Kohli easily took the team over the line in the 18th over. Earlier, a perfect display of death bowling helped India restrict England to 164/6. Put in to bat, England didn`t have a great start as Bhuvneshwar Kumar had Jos Buttler (0) adjudged leg before wicket on just the third ball of the innings. Dawid Malan then joined Jason Roy in the middle and the duo revived the innings for the visitors, taking the score to 44/1 after the end of the powerplay. Malan and Roy eventually stitched a 63-run stand for the second wicket which came to an end in the ninth over after leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal had Malan (24) adjudged leg-before wicket, reducing England to 64/2. Roy (46), for the second time in a row, then missed out on his half-century as he was sent back to the pavilion in the 12th over by Washington Sundar. The right-handed batsman went for a big shot, but he ended up holding out to Bhuvneshwar in the deep. Jonny Bairstow (20) got a reprieve in the 14th over of the innings, but he was sent back to the dressing room in the very same over by Sundar. In the final four overs, the hosts conceded just 28 runs and as a result, England was restricted under the 170-run mark. For the hosts, Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur returned with two wickets. Ben Stokes was dismissed after playing a knock of 24 while Sam Curran remained unbeaten on 6. Skipper Eoin Morgan also contributed with 28. The two teams will now take on each other in the third T20I on Tuesday. Brief Scores: England 164/6 (Jason Roy 46, Eoin Morgan 28, Shardul Thakur 2-29) vs India 166/3 (Virat Kohli 73*, Ishan Kishan 56; Sam Curran 1-22).

Kohli, Kishan help India register convincing win over England in 2nd T20I

Virat Kohli has hit a rough patch with the bat as the Indian skipper was dismissed for a duck in the first T20I against England. However, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has said that there is no need to be worried about Kohli’s form.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-6666-yuvraj-singhs-smash-fest-against-south-africa-legends-370301" hreflang="en">WATCH- 6,6,6,6: Yuvraj Singh's smash-fest against South Africa Legends</a>

“You’ve got to remember that India have played Test cricket on difficult wickets. Apart from Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, none of the other batsmen could score consistently in the Tests. And Kohli obviously sets such high standards for himself that we talk about form when he doesn’t score hundreds,” Gambhir said on Star Sports.

Adil Rashid dismissed the skipper within the first five balls.&nbsp;

“He has been scoring fifties. He scored a fifty in Adelaide and also got two fifties against England. Yes, he didn’t get a hundred and perhaps that’s why there’s a lot of debate going around. India is obsessed with hundreds,” Gambhir said.

Gambhir even predicted Kohli's form in the upcoming Tests. “And I believe this format is such, it will allow him to play freely. He’s got a Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya, who can take the pressure off him,” Gambhir added.

India led by Kohli will lock horns with England in the second T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has hit a rough patch with the bat as the Indian skipper was dismissed for a duck in the first T20I against England. However, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has said that there is no need to be worried about Kohli’s form.

Virat Kohli has hit a rough patch with the bat as the Indian skipper was dismissed for a duck in the first T20I against England. However, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has said that there is no need to be worried about Kohli’s form. ALSO READ: WATCH- 6,6,6,6: Yuvraj Singh's smash-fest against South Africa Legends “You’ve got to remember that India have played Test cricket on difficult wickets. Apart from Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, none of the other batsmen could score consistently in the Tests. And Kohli obviously sets such high standards for himself that we talk about form when he doesn’t score hundreds,” Gambhir said on Star Sports. Adil Rashid dismissed the skipper within the first five balls. “He has been scoring fifties. He scored a fifty in Adelaide and also got two fifties against England. Yes, he didn’t get a hundred and perhaps that’s why there’s a lot of debate going around. India is obsessed with hundreds,” Gambhir said. Gambhir even predicted Kohli's form in the upcoming Tests. “And I believe this format is such, it will allow him to play freely. He’s got a Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya, who can take the pressure off him,” Gambhir added. India led by Kohli will lock horns with England in the second T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.

'I believe this format is such': Gambhir predicts Virat Kohli's form ahead of 2nd T20I

Virat Kohli on Friday registered a duck in the first T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Kohli, who is not going through a great run of form with the willow, recorded his third duck in ongoing England’s tour of India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the duck, Kohli registered an unwanted record previously set by former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;Kohli now has recorded 14 international ducks as the captain of India, surpassing Ganguly who had 13 ducks&nbsp;while leading Team India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Kohli and Ganguly hold the first two positions on the unwanted list respectively, the duo is followed by former captain MS Dhoni who had 11 ducks in his career as the captain. Whereas legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev recorded 10 ducks as&nbsp;the captain of India. Next in the list is former skipper Mohammad Azharuddin with 8 ducks.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a6674c8f-9914-410a-b2b3-fd663ba08d5c}{193}" paraid="1667796822" >Most duck by an&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;captain in&nbsp;international cricket:&nbsp;</h2>

14: Virat&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;

13:&nbsp;Sourav&nbsp;Ganguly&nbsp;

11: MS Dhoni&nbsp;

Kohli was dismissed by English spinner Adil Rashid in the third over after the Indian captain went for an uncanny slog over mid-off. However, he mistimed the ball as it travelled straight to the hands of the fielder.&nbsp;

"We were planning to do things like batting first in these conditions where bowling in the dew becomes a factor. It's a good way to prepare for the World Cup," Kohli had said at the toss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Friday registered a duck in the first T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Kohli, who is not going through a great run of form with the willow, recorded his third duck in ongoing England’s tour of India.

Virat Kohli on Friday registered a duck in the first T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Kohli, who is not going through a great run of form with the willow, recorded his third duck in ongoing England’s tour of India. With the duck, Kohli registered an unwanted record previously set by former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly. Kohli now has recorded 14 international ducks as the captain of India, surpassing Ganguly who had 13 ducks while leading Team India. While Kohli and Ganguly hold the first two positions on the unwanted list respectively, the duo is followed by former captain MS Dhoni who had 11 ducks in his career as the captain. Whereas legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev recorded 10 ducks as the captain of India. Next in the list is former skipper Mohammad Azharuddin with 8 ducks. Most duck by an Indian captain in international cricket: 14: Virat Kohli 13: Sourav Ganguly 11: MS Dhoni Kohli was dismissed by English spinner Adil Rashid in the third over after the Indian captain went for an uncanny slog over mid-off. However, he mistimed the ball as it travelled straight to the hands of the fielder. "We were planning to do things like batting first in these conditions where bowling in the dew becomes a factor. It's a good way to prepare for the World Cup," Kohli had said at the toss.

Virat Kohli surpasses Sourav Ganguly in unwanted list during 1st T20I vs England

Virat Kohli is on the verge of becoming the first player to score 3000 runs in T20I cricket. Kohli, who is just 72 runs away from the iconic landmark, will look to achieve the milestone when India&nbsp;take&nbsp;on England in the first T20I of the five-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

While Kohli continues&nbsp;to wait for his first century with the last ton for the Indian skipper coming more than a year ago, he would be looking to become the first player to touch a 3000-run landmark&nbsp;in T20 international cricket.&nbsp;

Kohli is the leading run-scorer in T20I cricket with 2928 runs in 85 matches for India. In 79 innings in T20I cricket, Kohli has scored his runs at a splendid average of 50.48 and strike-rate of 138.43 including 25 fifties.&nbsp;The Indian skipper’s batting average is the second-highest in T20I cricket after Dawid Malan (minimum&nbsp;800 runs).&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-1st-t20i-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-ind-vs-eng-match-online-and-tv-369957" hreflang="en">India vs England 1st T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch IND vs ENG match online and TV?</a>

The swashbuckling Indian batsman is 91 runs ahead of New Zealand’s Martin Guptill when it comes to scoring runs in T20I cricket followed by white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma, who has 2773 runs under his belt in 71 matches.&nbsp;

Ahead of the match, Kohli said England are the team to beat in the shortest format of the game while adding the Eoin Morgan-led outfit is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to win the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-becomes-first-indian-woman-to-score-10000-international-runs-369902" hreflang="en">Mithali Raj becomes first Indian woman to score 10,000 international runs</a>

“I actually think it's England who will be the team to beat. They're the number one side in the world and the prime focus will be on them in this World Cups. All the other teams will be wary of the strengths that they bring on to the park and every other team would agree with what I say: it's England who are the&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;and that will not change regardless of how they think - Virat Kohli doesn't agree that India will be favorites,” Kohli said in the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is on the verge of becoming the first player to score 3000 runs in T20I cricket. Kohli, who is just 72 runs away from the iconic landmark, will look to achieve the milestone when India take on England in the first T20I of the five-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli is on the verge of becoming the first player to score 3000 runs in T20I cricket. Kohli, who is just 72 runs away from the iconic landmark, will look to achieve the milestone when India take on England in the first T20I of the five-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While Kohli continues to wait for his first century with the last ton for the Indian skipper coming more than a year ago, he would be looking to become the first player to touch a 3000-run landmark in T20 international cricket. Kohli is the leading run-scorer in T20I cricket with 2928 runs in 85 matches for India. In 79 innings in T20I cricket, Kohli has scored his runs at a splendid average of 50.48 and strike-rate of 138.43 including 25 fifties. The Indian skipper’s batting average is the second-highest in T20I cricket after Dawid Malan (minimum 800 runs). ALSO READ: India vs England 1st T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch IND vs ENG match online and TV? The swashbuckling Indian batsman is 91 runs ahead of New Zealand’s Martin Guptill when it comes to scoring runs in T20I cricket followed by white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma, who has 2773 runs under his belt in 71 matches. Ahead of the match, Kohli said England are the team to beat in the shortest format of the game while adding the Eoin Morgan-led outfit is favourite to win the T20 World Cup. ALSO READ: Mithali Raj becomes first Indian woman to score 10,000 international runs “I actually think it's England who will be the team to beat. They're the number one side in the world and the prime focus will be on them in this World Cups. All the other teams will be wary of the strengths that they bring on to the park and every other team would agree with what I say: it's England who are the favourites and that will not change regardless of how they think - Virat Kohli doesn't agree that India will be favorites,” Kohli said in the pre-match press conference.

Virat Kohli on cusp of becoming first player to score 3000 T20I runs

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has said that England are favourites to win the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India later this year.

England favourites to win T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli

Rishabh Pant’s ascent in the Tyres ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings continues unabated and he is now at a career-best seventh position after smashing a match-winning 101 in the fourth Test against England in Ahmedabad which India won by an innings and 25 runs to clinch the series 3-1.

Pant has moved up seven slots and shares seventh place with compatriot Rohit Sharma, who has inched up one spot, and Henry Nicholls of New Zealand. Pant’s 747 rating points are the joint-15th highest by any India batsman, and the highest by a full-time Test wicketkeeper from his country.

Washington Sundar, who also played a crucial role in India’s passage to the final of the ICC World Test Championship, has gained 39 places and is in 62nd position, thanks to his 96 not out, but captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara had below-par series. Kohli is at his lowest points tally since November 2017 while Pujara is under 700 rating points for the first time since September 2016.

There was no surprise in the rankings reflecting kindly on spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel, who ripped through the England innings time and again during the series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monty-panesar-sachin-tendulkar-is-the-greatest-athlete-ever-to-play-against-him-is-huge-honour-369446" hreflang="en">Monty Panesar: Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest athlete ever, to play against him is huge honour</a>

Ashwin, the player of the series, has leapfrogged New Zealand’s Neil Wagner to the second position among bowlers, the first time since August 2017, after finishing with eight wickets in the match. &nbsp;He is also ranked fourth among all-rounders, now ahead of Shakib Al Hasan.&nbsp;

Patel’s nine wickets have lifted him eight places to 30th with 552 rating points. Only two bowlers have achieved more points after their first three Tests – former India leg-spinner Narendra Hirwani (564) and Australia fast bowler Charlie Turner (553) who played in the 19th century.

For England, Dan Lawrence has moved up 47 places to 93rd among batsmen with scores of 46 and 50 and James Anderson has moved up two places to fourth position after his haul of three for 44 in Ahmedabad.

Zimbabwe beat Afghanistan inside two days and captain Sean Williams’s knock of 105 in Abu Dhabi has helped him move up 24 places to 43rd. Sikandar Raza is another one to move up, a gain of eight places taking him up to 56th position.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-final-to-be-held-at-hampshire-bowl-in-southampton-icc-369392" hreflang="en">World Test Championship final to be held at Hampshire Bowl in Southampton: ICC</a>

Blessing Muzarabani reentered the rankings in a creditable 86th position after finishing with six wickets in the match while Victory Nyanchi (up 37 places to 57th) and Donald Tripano (up seven places to 77th) were other Zimbabwe bowlers to gain.

For Afghanistan, Ibrahim Zadran (up 24 places to 69th) and Hamza Kotak (up 33 places to 46th) gained in the men’s weekly ranking update, which included a T20I rankings update from the last three matches of the Australia-New Zealand series and the three-match West Indies-Sri Lanka series.

The ICC Men’s T20I Rankings saw Australia captain Aaron Finch move up to the second place from fourth after scoring 197 runs in the series, which was won 3-2 by New Zealand. Matthew Wade and Marcus Stoinis also moved up into the 90s in the rankings while left-arm spinner Ashton Agar progressed four places to fourth among bowlers after finishing with eight wickets in the series.

For New Zealand, Martin Guptill has gained three slots to reach the eighth position after topping the series with 218 runs while Devon Conway’s 192 runs helped him to 11th place with 192 runs.

The West Indies-Sri Lanka series, won 2-1 by hosts West Indies, saw Kieron Pollard, who smashed six sixes off an over from Akil Dananjaya in the first match, has moved up four places to 53rd &nbsp;while Fabien Allen has moved up 44 places to 42nd. For Sri Lanka, Danushka Gunathilaka (up 15 places to 55th) among batsmen and Lakshan Sandakan (up nine places to 10th) have made notable gains.

Rishabh Pant’s ascent in the Tyres ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings continues unabated and he is now at a career-best seventh position after smashing a match-winning 101 in the fourth Test against England in Ahmedabad which India won by an innings and 25 runs to clinch the series 3-1.

Rishabh Pant’s ascent in the Tyres ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings continues unabated and he is now at a career-best seventh position after smashing a match-winning 101 in the fourth Test against England in Ahmedabad which India won by an innings and 25 runs to clinch the series 3-1. Pant has moved up seven slots and shares seventh place with compatriot Rohit Sharma, who has inched up one spot, and Henry Nicholls of New Zealand. Pant’s 747 rating points are the joint-15th highest by any India batsman, and the highest by a full-time Test wicketkeeper from his country. Washington Sundar, who also played a crucial role in India’s passage to the final of the ICC World Test Championship, has gained 39 places and is in 62nd position, thanks to his 96 not out, but captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara had below-par series. Kohli is at his lowest points tally since November 2017 while Pujara is under 700 rating points for the first time since September 2016. There was no surprise in the rankings reflecting kindly on spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel, who ripped through the England innings time and again during the series. ALSO READ: Monty Panesar: Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest athlete ever, to play against him is huge honour Ashwin, the player of the series, has leapfrogged New Zealand’s Neil Wagner to the second position among bowlers, the first time since August 2017, after finishing with eight wickets in the match. He is also ranked fourth among all-rounders, now ahead of Shakib Al Hasan. Patel’s nine wickets have lifted him eight places to 30th with 552 rating points. Only two bowlers have achieved more points after their first three Tests – former India leg-spinner Narendra Hirwani (564) and Australia fast bowler Charlie Turner (553) who played in the 19th century. For England, Dan Lawrence has moved up 47 places to 93rd among batsmen with scores of 46 and 50 and James Anderson has moved up two places to fourth position after his haul of three for 44 in Ahmedabad. Zimbabwe beat Afghanistan inside two days and captain Sean Williams’s knock of 105 in Abu Dhabi has helped him move up 24 places to 43rd. Sikandar Raza is another one to move up, a gain of eight places taking him up to 56th position. ALSO READ: World Test Championship final to be held at Hampshire Bowl in Southampton: ICC Blessing Muzarabani reentered the rankings in a creditable 86th position after finishing with six wickets in the match while Victory Nyanchi (up 37 places to 57th) and Donald Tripano (up seven places to 77th) were other Zimbabwe bowlers to gain. For Afghanistan, Ibrahim Zadran (up 24 places to 69th) and Hamza Kotak (up 33 places to 46th) gained in the men’s weekly ranking update, which included a T20I rankings update from the last three matches of the Australia-New Zealand series and the three-match West Indies-Sri Lanka series. The ICC Men’s T20I Rankings saw Australia captain Aaron Finch move up to the second place from fourth after scoring 197 runs in the series, which was won 3-2 by New Zealand. Matthew Wade and Marcus Stoinis also moved up into the 90s in the rankings while left-arm spinner Ashton Agar progressed four places to fourth among bowlers after finishing with eight wickets in the series. For New Zealand, Martin Guptill has gained three slots to reach the eighth position after topping the series with 218 runs while Devon Conway’s 192 runs helped him to 11th place with 192 runs. The West Indies-Sri Lanka series, won 2-1 by hosts West Indies, saw Kieron Pollard, who smashed six sixes off an over from Akil Dananjaya in the first match, has moved up four places to 53rd while Fabien Allen has moved up 44 places to 42nd. For Sri Lanka, Danushka Gunathilaka (up 15 places to 55th) among batsmen and Lakshan Sandakan (up nine places to 10th) have made notable gains.

ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant achieves career-best 7th position, Virat Kohli witnesses major dip

On International Women’s Day today, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli shared a beautiful post of wife-actress Anushka Sharma cradling their newborn girl child Vamika.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> shared the Women’s Day post with a heartfelt message as he wrote: "Seeing the birth of a child is the most spine chilling, unbelievable and amazing experience a human being can have. After witnessing that, you understand the true strength and divinity of women and why God created life inside them. It's because they are way stronger than us men. Happy Women's Day to the most fiercely, compassionate and strong woman of my life and to the one who's going to grow up to be like her mother. And also a Happy Women’s Day to all the amazing women of the world."

Check out the photo here:

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Anushka and Virat had announced the name of their girl child as they had shared her first picture on their social media profiles last month. They wrote: “We have lived together with love , presence and gratitude as a way of life but this little one, Vamika has taken it to a whole new level ! Tears , laughter , worry, bliss - emotions that have been experienced in a span of minutes sometimes ! Sleep is elusive but our hearts are SO full. Thanking you all for your wishes , prayers and good energy.”

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/anushka-sharma">Anushka Sharma</a> have requested the paparazzi to not click pictures of their newborn. They will meanwhile be available for individual shots. They had then requested: “Hi, Thank you for all the love that you have given us for all these years. We are happy to celebrate this momentous occasion with you. As parents, we have a simple request to make to you. We want to protect the privacy of our child and we need your help and support. While we will always ensure that you get all the content you need featuring us, we would request you to kindly not take or carry any content that has our child. We know that you will understand where we are coming from and we thank you for the same.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/international-womens-day-watch-zee-theatre-teleplays-that-celebrate-womens-stories-368598" hreflang="en">International Women’s day: Watch Zee Theatre teleplays that celebrate women’s stories</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kareena-kapoor-to-ekta-kapoor-meet-the-trendsetting-sheroes-of-bollywood-this-womens-day-368271" hreflang="en">Kareena Kapoor to Ekta Kapoor: Meet the trendsetting sheroes of Bollywood this Women's Day</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/international-womens-day-7-animated-women-characters-we-need-to-celebrate-368144" hreflang="en">International Women’s Day: 7 animated women characters we need to celebrate</a>

On International Women’s Day today, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli shared a beautiful post of wife-actress Anushka Sharma cradling their newborn girl child Vamika.

On International Women’s Day today, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli shared a beautiful post of wife-actress Anushka Sharma cradling their newborn girl child Vamika. Virat Kohli shared the Women’s Day post with a heartfelt message as he wrote: "Seeing the birth of a child is the most spine chilling, unbelievable and amazing experience a human being can have. After witnessing that, you understand the true strength and divinity of women and why God created life inside them. It's because they are way stronger than us men. Happy Women's Day to the most fiercely, compassionate and strong woman of my life and to the one who's going to grow up to be like her mother. And also a Happy Women’s Day to all the amazing women of the world." Check out the photo here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) × Anushka and Virat had announced the name of their girl child as they had shared her first picture on their social media profiles last month. They wrote: “We have lived together with love , presence and gratitude as a way of life but this little one, Vamika has taken it to a whole new level ! Tears , laughter , worry, bliss - emotions that have been experienced in a span of minutes sometimes ! Sleep is elusive but our hearts are SO full. Thanking you all for your wishes , prayers and good energy.” Meanwhile, Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have requested the paparazzi to not click pictures of their newborn. They will meanwhile be available for individual shots. They had then requested: “Hi, Thank you for all the love that you have given us for all these years. We are happy to celebrate this momentous occasion with you. As parents, we have a simple request to make to you. We want to protect the privacy of our child and we need your help and support. While we will always ensure that you get all the content you need featuring us, we would request you to kindly not take or carry any content that has our child. We know that you will understand where we are coming from and we thank you for the same.” International Women’s day: Watch Zee Theatre teleplays that celebrate women’s stories Kareena Kapoor to Ekta Kapoor: Meet the trendsetting sheroes of Bollywood this Women's Day International Women’s Day: 7 animated women characters we need to celebrate

Virat Kohli celebrates Women's Day with wife Anushka Sharma & child; check adorable pic inside

IND vs ENG, 4th Test Day 2: India take significant lead as Pant smashes ton

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was out on a duck in the fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium after nicking the ball off Stokes' delivery and giving an easy catch to Ben Foakes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-frustrating-ben-stokes-on-englands-performance-with-bat-defends-team-selection-368024" hreflang="en">'It’s frustrating': Ben Stokes on England's performance with bat; defends team selection</a>

This was Kohli's 2nd duck in the series and 8th overall as an Indian Test Captain. By doing so, he has equalled MS Dhoni's unwanted record of most dismissals for a duck by an Indian captain.

This is also for the first time since 2014 (Pataudi Trophy vs England) that Kohli has been dismissed twice on duck in the series. The first duck came in the second Test after Moeen Ali's ripper left the Indian captain stunned.&nbsp;

Kohli's duck off Stokes' delivery was his 12th in Test career and fifth coming against England. Stokes also joined Pat Cummins, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad and James Anderson to dismiss Kohli on 5 instances.

India are currently 2-1 up in the series and they need to secure atleast a draw to book a WTC finals spot against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was out on a duck in the fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium after nicking the ball off Stokes' delivery and giving an easy catch to Ben Foakes.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was out on a duck in the fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium after nicking the ball off Stokes' delivery and giving an easy catch to Ben Foakes. ALSO READ: 'It’s frustrating': Ben Stokes on England's performance with bat; defends team selection This was Kohli's 2nd duck in the series and 8th overall as an Indian Test Captain. By doing so, he has equalled MS Dhoni's unwanted record of most dismissals for a duck by an Indian captain. This is also for the first time since 2014 (Pataudi Trophy vs England) that Kohli has been dismissed twice on duck in the series. The first duck came in the second Test after Moeen Ali's ripper left the Indian captain stunned. Kohli's duck off Stokes' delivery was his 12th in Test career and fifth coming against England. Stokes also joined Pat Cummins, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad and James Anderson to dismiss Kohli on 5 instances. India are currently 2-1 up in the series and they need to secure atleast a draw to book a WTC finals spot against New Zealand.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli equals MS Dhoni's unpopular record after getting out on duck

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and England's Ben Stokes exchanged some heated words on Day 1 of the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-4th-test-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-pitch-in-narendra-modi-stadium-367837" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 4th Test: All you need to know about the pitch in Narendra Modi Stadium</a>

Kohli ticked off after Ben Stokes' said something, probably to Siraj, after the young pacer bowled a bouncer. An argument took place between Kohli and Stokes as the umpires intervened to calm both the cricketers.&nbsp;

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Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes, earlier, were involved in a funny banter during the third Test when the England all-rounder stopped mid-way through his batting stride due to disturbance in the sightscreen.&nbsp;

Team India are off to a good start as Axar Patel removed the openers quickly and Siraj getting a big wicket of England skipper Joe Root. Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes are trying to revive the innings with their partnership.&nbsp;

India is leading the four-Test series 2-1 and only need a draw to secure a place in the final of the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and England's Ben Stokes exchanged some heated words on Day 1 of the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 4th Test: All you need to know about the pitch in Narendra Modi Stadium Kohli ticked off after Ben Stokes' said something, probably to Siraj, after the young pacer bowled a bouncer.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and England's Ben Stokes exchanged some heated words on Day 1 of the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 4th Test: All you need to know about the pitch in Narendra Modi Stadium Kohli ticked off after Ben Stokes' said something, probably to Siraj, after the young pacer bowled a bouncer. An argument took place between Kohli and Stokes as the umpires intervened to calm both the cricketers. One of the things you'll love about Virat Kohli. He'll always come in defence of his team members. pic.twitter.com/4Tkm2d5aEA — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 4, 2021 × Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes, earlier, were involved in a funny banter during the third Test when the England all-rounder stopped mid-way through his batting stride due to disturbance in the sightscreen. Team India are off to a good start as Axar Patel removed the openers quickly and Siraj getting a big wicket of England skipper Joe Root. Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes are trying to revive the innings with their partnership. India is leading the four-Test series 2-1 and only need a draw to secure a place in the final of the World Test Championship.

WATCH: Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes get into an argument on Day 1 of 4th Test

IND vs ENG, 4th Test- India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4. The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-preview-india-england-gear-up-for-ahmedabad-showdown-with-wtc-final-on-line-367507" hreflang="en">4th Test Preview: India-England gear up for Ahmedabad showdown with WTC final on the line</a>

While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. &nbsp;

Virat and Co. will be looking to seal the WTC Finals spot by at least securing a draw in the fourth match. However, India faced a major setback as Jasprit Bumrah was released from the squad due to personal reasons opening doors for Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

According to vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, the fourth match would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third Test. However, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj could beat Umesh Yadav for Jasprit Bumrah's spot as the youngster's capability of scalping wickets on unresponsive tracks. Ishant could be rested and Umesh could be picked instead.&nbsp;

India's Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

England, on the other hand, will be reeling from consecutive defeats and will be sure to include Dom Bess in the final match. Bess' absence was felt during the third match as England lost by 10 wickets raising several doubts on the team's rotation policy. Bess could replace Stuart Broad as the pacer failed to leave an impact in the previous two Tests.&nbsp;

England's Probable XI: Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root (c), Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Ben Foakes (wk), Dom Bess, Jack Leach, Jofra Archer, James Anderson

IND vs ENG, 4th Test- India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test- India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4. The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground. ALSO READ: 4th Test Preview: India-England gear up for Ahmedabad showdown with WTC final on the line While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. Virat and Co. will be looking to seal the WTC Finals spot by at least securing a draw in the fourth match. However, India faced a major setback as Jasprit Bumrah was released from the squad due to personal reasons opening doors for Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj. According to vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, the fourth match would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third Test. However, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj could beat Umesh Yadav for Jasprit Bumrah's spot as the youngster's capability of scalping wickets on unresponsive tracks. Ishant could be rested and Umesh could be picked instead. India's Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj England, on the other hand, will be reeling from consecutive defeats and will be sure to include Dom Bess in the final match. Bess' absence was felt during the third match as England lost by 10 wickets raising several doubts on the team's rotation policy. Bess could replace Stuart Broad as the pacer failed to leave an impact in the previous two Tests. England's Probable XI: Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root (c), Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Ben Foakes (wk), Dom Bess, Jack Leach, Jofra Archer, James Anderson

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Possible XI's of India and England as they head to thrilling finale

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