This is the moment of king Kohli. He is just decimating bowling attack mercilessly. When he scored his third century in the recent ODI series with South Africa, eminent commentator Harsha Bhogle quipped on TV &ldquo;when did you last see a batsman dominating to such an extent&rdquo;. I know the most obvious answer; it was Sachin Tendulkar during 1998 and I am sure that each cricket freak of my generation must have thought the same. Later in the day, Bhogle himself tweeted that the Kohli&rsquo;s dominance nowadays is akin to Tendulkar&rsquo;s in 1998.

Exactly twenty years back in the calendar year of 1998, Sachin Tendulkar was on a roll, he was dominating, scoring runs at will and routing each and every bowling attack in the world.

First look at the numbers. Tendulkar played in 34 ODIs in 1998 and scored 1894 runs at a colossal average of 65.3 and with the whopping strike rate of 102. He smashed 40 sixes in all, but the most impressive fact is that he scored 9 ODI centuries and 7 ODI half-centuries in a single calendar year of 1998. In 5 Test matches, Sachin scored around 650 runs with an average of 80 plus and with 3 centuries.

You must be in awe of these unbelievable numbers, but trust me, it&#39;s just the tip of the iceberg as far as the splendor of Sachin-1998 is concerned. The main essence of Tendulkar&rsquo;s heroic in 1998 is the way he pulverized best of bowling attacks and the consistency with which he pulled matches for his country and bailed his side out of the crunch situation.

So what happened in 1998? What or who triggered this onslaught?

Well, there is a bit of story behind it. Tendulkar replaced Azhar as Indian captain in 1996. He was the heir apparent for years before he got the baton from Azhar. Sachin&rsquo;s success as captain, however, was rather tepid. India lost the Test series in South Africa and in West Indies. In a Test against Sri Lanka at Colombo, Sri Lanka scored 950 runs in a single Test inning.

Tendulkar was sacked from the captaincy towards the end of 1997. Tendulkar was taken aback; he was disappointed the way selectors snubbed him, hurriedly.

Years later Tendulkar confessed his disappointment unequivocally in his biographical film Sachin: A Billion Dreams. Sachin was hurt, pained and all that was vented out through his bat during 1998. Moreover, he was free from the pressure of captaincy.

Sachin Tendulkar in 1998 is all about larger than life performances by him, spellbound Cricket fraternity and interesting anecdotes which created a bona fide cult around the great man. &nbsp;

Australians were first, who has fallen prey to the Tendulkar&rsquo;s juggernaut when Australia visited India for a Test series (3-Test) after a gap of close to 12 years. Tendulkar was prepared. He toiled hard at the net and on rough pitches to counter hyper leg breaks of Warne. At Chennai during the first Test, Tendulkar pivoted the Indian victory by scoring a swashbuckling 155 in the third inning of Test. During that time, Shane Warne had been troubling best of world&rsquo;s batsmen with his insane turn after pitching the ball way outside the leg-stump. Warne was awestruck when Tendulkar dispatched similar deliveries into the stands during that knock. &nbsp;

Warne later confessed that he used to see Sachin in dreams, hitting him ruthlessly. That was the time when fraternity was indulged in a discussion &ldquo;Brain Lara vs Sachin Tendulkar, who is best among them&rdquo;. Warne endorsed that Tendulkar is a notch above Lara.

In April 1998, Tendulkar smashed two ODI centuries at Sharjah against Australia in a span of three days, which unarguably are among the finest ODI innings by an Indian. The first century put India into the final from a gloomy situation and second won the final for India.

It was ruthless hitting at Sharjah. I remember how Tony Grieg was going bonkers in the commentary box every time Tendulkar dispatched ball over the rope.

Tendulkar was so dominant in 1998 that Sir Don Bradman commented that he found Tendulkar&rsquo; batting pretty close to his own. In the same year 1998, Don celebrated his 90th birthday and Tendulkar along with Warne was the special invitee at his residence in Adelaide.

Later, Dennis Lillee told something very interesting about that carnage at Sharjah. Australian fast bowler Michael Kasprowicz went to the great Lillee for some tips to get Tendulkar out early in the innings. Lillee told him point-blank &ldquo;Dude, the kind of form Tendulkar is in, you shouldn&rsquo;t even think of getting him out. You just plan to save some runs against him&rdquo;. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ajay Jadeja once narrated a very interesting incident about Tendulkar in 1998. During a triangular series at Sharjah during November 1998 in a match against Zimbabwe, Tendulkar was rattled by a short pitch delivery of fired up young pace bowler Henry Olanga. When Tendulkar came back in the pavilion, Jadeja smirked and insinuated his failure. Tendulkar smiled and replied, &ldquo;Buddy, wait till the next match&rdquo;.

The very next match was the final against Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe scored 196 runs in the first inning. India scored 197 in just 30 overs without losing a single wicket. Tendulkar scored 124 not out at the strike rate of 135. Olanga learned some lesson on pace bowling from Tendulkar as he went for 50 runs in 6 overs.

A few years later in an interview, Indian coach during 1998 Anshuman Gaikwad spoke about Tendulkar in 1998. He said that in Chennai Test when India started his third inning, Anshuman told the team that a quick hundred from any of the batsmen would bring India back in the game. Tendulkar immediately reverted &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t worry coach; I will do the job for you&rdquo;.

Similarly, in Sharjah in April 1998 when India was struggling in the last league match against Australia, Tendulkar again told Anshuman that he would do the job.

So, in 1998, Tendulkar has not only scored runs, he also knew that he was going to score runs. That was the level of his self-confidence.

1998 was undoubtedly Tendulkar&rsquo;s year in the Cricket. The impact was so deep that even today if in any discussion 1998 is referred; I recall that it was the year when our master blasters blitzed. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Watching Virat Kohli scoring centuries one after another reminds us of Sachin Tendulkar who played like a beast during 1998.

This is the moment of king Kohli. He is just decimating bowling attack mercilessly. When he scored his third century in the recent ODI series with South Africa, eminent commentator Harsha Bhogle quipped on TV “when did you last see a batsman dominating to such an extent”. I know the most obvious answer; it was Sachin Tendulkar during 1998 and I am sure that each cricket freak of my generation must have thought the same. Later in the day, Bhogle himself tweeted that the Kohli’s dominance nowadays is akin to Tendulkar’s in 1998. Exactly twenty years back in the calendar year of 1998, Sachin Tendulkar was on a roll, he was dominating, scoring runs at will and routing each and every bowling attack in the world. First look at the numbers. Tendulkar played in 34 ODIs in 1998 and scored 1894 runs at a colossal average of 65.3 and with the whopping strike rate of 102. He smashed 40 sixes in all, but the most impressive fact is that he scored 9 ODI centuries and 7 ODI half-centuries in a single calendar year of 1998. In 5 Test matches, Sachin scored around 650 runs with an average of 80 plus and with 3 centuries. You must be in awe of these unbelievable numbers, but trust me, it's just the tip of the iceberg as far as the splendor of Sachin-1998 is concerned. The main essence of Tendulkar’s heroic in 1998 is the way he pulverized best of bowling attacks and the consistency with which he pulled matches for his country and bailed his side out of the crunch situation. So what happened in 1998? What or who triggered this onslaught? Well, there is a bit of story behind it. Tendulkar replaced Azhar as Indian captain in 1996. He was the heir apparent for years before he got the baton from Azhar. Sachin’s success as captain, however, was rather tepid. India lost the Test series in South Africa and in West Indies. In a Test against Sri Lanka at Colombo, Sri Lanka scored 950 runs in a single Test inning. Tendulkar was sacked from the captaincy towards the end of 1997. Tendulkar was taken aback; he was disappointed the way selectors snubbed him, hurriedly. Years later Tendulkar confessed his disappointment unequivocally in his biographical film Sachin: A Billion Dreams. Sachin was hurt, pained and all that was vented out through his bat during 1998. Moreover, he was free from the pressure of captaincy. Sachin Tendulkar in 1998 is all about larger than life performances by him, spellbound Cricket fraternity and interesting anecdotes which created a bona fide cult around the great man. Australians were first, who has fallen prey to the Tendulkar’s juggernaut when Australia visited India for a Test series (3-Test) after a gap of close to 12 years. Tendulkar was prepared. He toiled hard at the net and on rough pitches to counter hyper leg breaks of Warne. At Chennai during the first Test, Tendulkar pivoted the Indian victory by scoring a swashbuckling 155 in the third inning of Test. During that time, Shane Warne had been troubling best of world’s batsmen with his insane turn after pitching the ball way outside the leg-stump. Warne was awestruck when Tendulkar dispatched similar deliveries into the stands during that knock. Warne later confessed that he used to see Sachin in dreams, hitting him ruthlessly. That was the time when fraternity was indulged in a discussion “Brain Lara vs Sachin Tendulkar, who is best among them”. Warne endorsed that Tendulkar is a notch above Lara. In April 1998, Tendulkar smashed two ODI centuries at Sharjah against Australia in a span of three days, which unarguably are among the finest ODI innings by an Indian. The first century put India into the final from a gloomy situation and second won the final for India. It was ruthless hitting at Sharjah. I remember how Tony Grieg was going bonkers in the commentary box every time Tendulkar dispatched ball over the rope. Tendulkar was so dominant in 1998 that Sir Don Bradman commented that he found Tendulkar’ batting pretty close to his own. In the same year 1998, Don celebrated his 90th birthday and Tendulkar along with Warne was the special invitee at his residence in Adelaide. Later, Dennis Lillee told something very interesting about that carnage at Sharjah. Australian fast bowler Michael Kasprowicz went to the great Lillee for some tips to get Tendulkar out early in the innings. Lillee told him point-blank “Dude, the kind of form Tendulkar is in, you shouldn’t even think of getting him out. You just plan to save some runs against him”. Ajay Jadeja once narrated a very interesting incident about Tendulkar in 1998. During a triangular series at Sharjah during November 1998 in a match against Zimbabwe, Tendulkar was rattled by a short pitch delivery of fired up young pace bowler Henry Olanga. When Tendulkar came back in the pavilion, Jadeja smirked and insinuated his failure. Tendulkar smiled and replied, “Buddy, wait till the next match”. The very next match was the final against Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe scored 196 runs in the first inning. India scored 197 in just 30 overs without losing a single wicket. Tendulkar scored 124 not out at the strike rate of 135. Olanga learned some lesson on pace bowling from Tendulkar as he went for 50 runs in 6 overs. A few years later in an interview, Indian coach during 1998 Anshuman Gaikwad spoke about Tendulkar in 1998. He said that in Chennai Test when India started his third inning, Anshuman told the team that a quick hundred from any of the batsmen would bring India back in the game. Tendulkar immediately reverted “Don’t worry coach; I will do the job for you”. Similarly, in Sharjah in April 1998 when India was struggling in the last league match against Australia, Tendulkar again told Anshuman that he would do the job. So, in 1998, Tendulkar has not only scored runs, he also knew that he was going to score runs. That was the level of his self-confidence. 1998 was undoubtedly Tendulkar’s year in the Cricket. The impact was so deep that even today if in any discussion 1998 is referred; I recall that it was the year when our master blasters blitzed. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Today's Virat Kohli bears resemblance of Sachin during 1998

After the end of the third and final T20 International against South Africa, Indian Skipper Virat Kohli will be presented with the Test Championship Mace by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The final of the three-match T20 series will be held today at the Newlands Stadium in Cape Town.&nbsp;

&quot;On behalf of the ICC, Cricket Hall of Famers Sunil Gavaskar of India and Graeme Pollock of South Africa will make the presentation immediately after the awards ceremony for the T20I series&quot;, the ICC wrote in statement.

India retained its number one spot in the ICC Test Team Rankings and a prize of $1 million after their victory in the third and final Test at Johannesburg against the Proteas last month.

The win had ensured that no team can move ahead of India in the Test rankings at the 3 April cut-off date.

India lost the first two Tests in Cape Town and Centurion respectively.

The Men in Blue had arrived South Africa on 124 points, with South Africa 13 points behind on 111 points.&nbsp;

However, Virat Kohli&rsquo;s men will return on 121 points as opposed to South Africa&rsquo;s 115 points, which will be good enough for them to keep possession of the prestigious Test mace for the second year in succession.

Kohli had become the 10th captain since 2002 to get his hands on the mace when he had received it from Sunil Gavaskar following the Indore Test against New Zealand in 2016.&nbsp;

Had South Africa pulled off a 3-0 series win against India, then a win by 2-0 or better against Australia would have helped them reclaim the mace they had last won in 2015. 
&nbsp;

The final of the three-match T20 series will be held today

After the end of the third and final T20 International against South Africa, Indian Skipper Virat Kohli will be presented with the Test Championship Mace by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The final of the three-match T20 series will be held today at the Newlands Stadium in Cape Town. "On behalf of the ICC, Cricket Hall of Famers Sunil Gavaskar of India and Graeme Pollock of South Africa will make the presentation immediately after the awards ceremony for the T20I series", the ICC wrote in statement. India retained its number one spot in the ICC Test Team Rankings and a prize of $1 million after their victory in the third and final Test at Johannesburg against the Proteas last month. The win had ensured that no team can move ahead of India in the Test rankings at the 3 April cut-off date. India lost the first two Tests in Cape Town and Centurion respectively. The Men in Blue had arrived South Africa on 124 points, with South Africa 13 points behind on 111 points. However, Virat Kohli’s men will return on 121 points as opposed to South Africa’s 115 points, which will be good enough for them to keep possession of the prestigious Test mace for the second year in succession. Kohli had become the 10th captain since 2002 to get his hands on the mace when he had received it from Sunil Gavaskar following the Indore Test against New Zealand in 2016. Had South Africa pulled off a 3-0 series win against India, then a win by 2-0 or better against Australia would have helped them reclaim the mace they had last won in 2015.

Virat Kohli to receive Test Championship mace after 3rd T20 in Cape Town

Virat Kohli was seen giving head massage to Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan during the final T-20 match against South Africa. The incident occurred in the last over of the first innings when India was batting as South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. India did not have the expected start as the innings was summarised with a modest total of 172 runs. Virat is not in the playing XI as he suffered an injury in the last match. Rohit Sharma is leading the squad.

Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 47 runs and it is expected that Virat might be cooling him down in the decider match as both the teams are eyeing to win the final T-20 to claim the trophy.

The three-match series is level at 1-1 after the Men in Blue won the first T20 in Johannesburg by 28 runs. &nbsp;The Proteas bounced back in Centurion with a six-wicket win.

Let&#39;s hope that the &#39;magical massage&#39; could help Dhawan so that he can perform well in the second innings in terms of fielding.

Injured, world's third fittest, captain Kohli never rests, as he was seen giving head massage to opener Shikhar Dhawan

Virat Kohli was seen giving head massage to Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan during the final T-20 match against South Africa. The incident occurred in the last over of the first innings when India was batting as South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. India did not have the expected start as the innings was summarised with a modest total of 172 runs. Virat is not in the playing XI as he suffered an injury in the last match. Rohit Sharma is leading the squad. Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 47 runs and it is expected that Virat might be cooling him down in the decider match as both the teams are eyeing to win the final T-20 to claim the trophy. The three-match series is level at 1-1 after the Men in Blue won the first T20 in Johannesburg by 28 runs. The Proteas bounced back in Centurion with a six-wicket win. Let's hope that the 'magical massage' could help Dhawan so that he can perform well in the second innings in terms of fielding.

Injured Virat Kohli gives head massage to Shikhar Dhawan during final T-20

Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina took hold of the Indian team and&nbsp;set a total of 172 runs for&nbsp;the loss of seven wickets in the 3rd and final T20 against South Africa.&nbsp;

While Dhawan scored 47 runs off 40, Raina played&nbsp;a breezy knock of 43 runs off 27 balls.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Apart from the two, no other player managed to reach the 30-run&nbsp;mark. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) too fell off for 12 runs after playing 11 balls.&nbsp; &nbsp;

India have suffered a big blow in the deciding Twenty20 against South Africa as they lost Virat Kohli due to a stiff back.&nbsp;

Opener Rohit Sharma is&nbsp;leading the side. South Africa won the toss and chose&nbsp;to bowl.&nbsp;

The three-match series is level at 1-1 after the Men in Blue won the first T20 in Johannesburg by 28 runs.&nbsp; The Proteas bounced back in Centurion with a six-wicket win.&nbsp;

India would be eyeing a perfect end to what has been a thoroughly roller-coaster tour.&nbsp;

For India, Dinesh has replaced Virat, Axar is in place of Chahal and Bumrah comes in place of Unadkat.

South Africa have also made two changes as they replaced J.J. Smuts and Dane Patterson with Christiaan Jonker, who will make his debut, and Aaron Phangiso.

The second match saw Manish Pandey come into his own, alongside MS Dhoni. Both the players scored half-centuries each. &nbsp;

Teams

India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Shardul Thakur.

South Africa: J.P. Duminy (C), Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, Farhaan Behardien, Christiaan Jonker, Andile Phehlukwayo, Aaron Phangiso, Chris Morris, Junior Dala, Tabraiz Shamsi.

Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina took hold of the Indian team and set a total of 172 runs for the loss of seven wickets in the 3rd and final T20 against South Africa. While Dhawan scored 47 runs off 40, Raina played a breezy knock of 43 runs off 27 balls. Apart from the two, no other player managed to reach the 30-run mark. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) too fell off for 12 runs after playing 11 balls. India have suffered a big blow in the deciding Twenty20 against South Africa as they lost Virat Kohli due to a stiff back. Opener Rohit Sharma is leading the side. South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. The three-match series is level at 1-1 after the Men in Blue won the first T20 in Johannesburg by 28 runs. The Proteas bounced back in Centurion with a six-wicket win. India would be eyeing a perfect end to what has been a thoroughly roller-coaster tour. For India, Dinesh has replaced Virat, Axar is in place of Chahal and Bumrah comes in place of Unadkat. South Africa have also made two changes as they replaced J.J. Smuts and Dane Patterson with Christiaan Jonker, who will make his debut, and Aaron Phangiso. The second match saw Manish Pandey come into his own, alongside MS Dhoni. Both the players scored half-centuries each. Teams India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Shardul Thakur. South Africa: J.P. Duminy (C), Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, Farhaan Behardien, Christiaan Jonker, Andile Phehlukwayo, Aaron Phangiso, Chris Morris, Junior Dala, Tabraiz Shamsi.

3rd T20: Dhawan, Raina push India to 172/7 after 20 overs

Suresh Raina marked his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">comeback</a> in the ongoing T20 series against South&nbsp;Africa.&nbsp;Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil,&nbsp;Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments,&nbsp;fielding, batting and bowling.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">All eyes are on Suresh Raina</a> as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead&nbsp;of World Cup 2019, and his performance&nbsp;will act as a decider.&nbsp;Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year&nbsp;ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017. The veteran has since struggled to get back into the side because of both form and fitness issues.

In a recent interview Indian cricketer, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">Suresh Raina</a> said, &quot;It is important to win a trophy first and important to go out there as a team mindset. If you see the top order, they are all batting well.

&quot;When you come to the middle order, MS (Dhoni) is there and Manish (Pandey) is also doing a good job,&quot; Raina told reporters ahead of the third T20I match against&nbsp;South Africa.

He added, &quot;So we will see where I can fit in. There are a lot of matches coming up now. Winning games is more important than being which format I am playing or not. Every&nbsp;Indian game is very important for me right now.&quot;

&quot;It is important (to attack). Virat (Kohli) showed that faith in me. In the last two games we have dominated in the first six overs. It is very important to play well in the first six overs,&quot; Raina said.

India&nbsp;is currently levelled at 1-1 in the series with the decider game to be played here on Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">Raina</a> stressed that the team will look to go aggressive once again in the third match against the hosts to finish the tour on high.

&quot;We have spoken about it in the team meeting as well. When you have been doing well in every game, then you need to finish well too. That is what <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">Virat i</a>s all about. He never takes things easier, and on top of that you have MS and Ravi (Shastri) bhai who also give their inputs to the players,&quot; he said.

&quot;Virat has led the team well. We did well in Tests and won the ODI series. Dressing room is such that everyone is enjoying this success and the process is such that everyone is giving their inputs to Ravi bhai.&quot;

Taking about the&nbsp;2019 World Cup, he said that there is the long road the team has to cover ahead of the tournament.

&quot;I think it is a long road to the World Cup from here on. First, we have the tri-series in Sri Lanka, then we have the IPL, so we need to keep fresh, keep winning and doing the right processes,&quot; the occasional off-spinner said.

&quot;Closer to the World Cup we will be able to tell where we are going. It is important to stay in present and look to win each and every game,&quot; Raina added.

&nbsp;

Suresh Raina said, 'We have the tri-series in Sri Lanka, then we have the IPL, so we need to keep fresh, keep winning and doing the right processes'

Suresh Raina marked his comeback in the ongoing T20 series against South Africa. Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil, Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. All eyes are on Suresh Raina as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance will act as a decider. Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017. The veteran has since struggled to get back into the side because of both form and fitness issues. In a recent interview Indian cricketer, Suresh Raina said, "It is important to win a trophy first and important to go out there as a team mindset. If you see the top order, they are all batting well. "When you come to the middle order, MS (Dhoni) is there and Manish (Pandey) is also doing a good job," Raina told reporters ahead of the third T20I match against South Africa. He added, "So we will see where I can fit in. There are a lot of matches coming up now. Winning games is more important than being which format I am playing or not. Every Indian game is very important for me right now." "It is important (to attack). Virat (Kohli) showed that faith in me. In the last two games we have dominated in the first six overs. It is very important to play well in the first six overs," Raina said. India is currently levelled at 1-1 in the series with the decider game to be played here on Saturday. Raina stressed that the team will look to go aggressive once again in the third match against the hosts to finish the tour on high. "We have spoken about it in the team meeting as well. When you have been doing well in every game, then you need to finish well too. That is what Virat is all about. He never takes things easier, and on top of that you have MS and Ravi (Shastri) bhai who also give their inputs to the players," he said. "Virat has led the team well. We did well in Tests and won the ODI series. Dressing room is such that everyone is enjoying this success and the process is such that everyone is giving their inputs to Ravi bhai." Taking about the 2019 World Cup, he said that there is the long road the team has to cover ahead of the tournament. "I think it is a long road to the World Cup from here on. First, we have the tri-series in Sri Lanka, then we have the IPL, so we need to keep fresh, keep winning and doing the right processes," the occasional off-spinner said. "Closer to the World Cup we will be able to tell where we are going. It is important to stay in present and look to win each and every game," Raina added.

'It is a long road to the World Cup,' says Raina

Newly-married couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma can&#39;t seem to get enough of each other.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team captain Kohli took to Instagram on&nbsp;February 20 to share an adorable photo of himself with his loved one. Posing in front of a wall with a graffiti of a couple kissing each other, Kohli seems to be busy doing the same.&nbsp;

He captioned the post:&nbsp; &quot;My one and only.&quot;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BfaVLXNAXeq/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">My one and only! &hearts;️????&hearts;️</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/virat.kohli/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Virat Kohli</a> (@virat.kohli) on <time datetime="2018-02-20T08:14:46+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 20, 2018 at 12:14am PST</time>
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Anushka Sharma is currently busy shooting for Sui Dhagga - Made in India with Varun Dhawan in an unusual pairing.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kohli is flying high on the success of India vs South Africa match series. During a match when Kohli was unstoppable, Sharma posted a couple of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-in-photos-anushka-sharma-cant-get-over-husband-virat-kohlis-33rd-odi-century-31589" target="_blank">Instagram stories</a> professing her love for her husband.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gives-credit-to-wife-anushka-for-his-performance-33118" target="_blank">Also Read:&nbsp;Virat Kohli gives credit to wife Anushka for his performance</a> 
&nbsp; 
The two tied the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-watch-timeline-of-virat-and-anushkas-love-story-26531" target="_blank"> knot </a>in Tuscany, Italy on December 11, 2017.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli got married to Anushka Sharma in a private ceremony in Tuscany, Italy last year

Newly-married couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma can't seem to get enough of each other. The Indian cricket team captain Kohli took to Instagram on February 20 to share an adorable photo of himself with his loved one. Posing in front of a wall with a graffiti of a couple kissing each other, Kohli seems to be busy doing the same. He captioned the post: "My one and only." My one and only! ♥️????♥️ A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) on Feb 20, 2018 at 12:14am PST × Anushka Sharma is currently busy shooting for Sui Dhagga - Made in India with Varun Dhawan in an unusual pairing. Meanwhile, Kohli is flying high on the success of India vs South Africa match series. During a match when Kohli was unstoppable, Sharma posted a couple of Instagram stories professing her love for her husband. Also Read: Virat Kohli gives credit to wife Anushka for his performance The two tied the knot in Tuscany, Italy on December 11, 2017.

In Photo: Virat Kohli shares a passionate kiss with his one and only!

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This is a great time to be an Indian cricket fan. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">After beating South Africa</a> in the sixth and final ODI at Centurion, India wrapped up a historic series victory by thumping the hosts 5-1. The manner of India&rsquo;s dominance and South Africa&rsquo;s abject capitulation has left countless cricket fans shocked.

Last night&rsquo;s ODI was a dead rubber. The series was already decided. And yet, people expected the home team to show fight in order to save some face. That was not to be as on a good batting surface, South Africa was bowled out for just 204 and then Team India brushed aside the target with eight wickets in hand and about 18 overs to spare.

Leading the charge was once again <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-in-the-world-now-says-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohli-33154">captain Virat Kohli</a>, whose magnificent unbeaten 129 made a mockery of the small target. The Indian bowlers, too, were brilliant and young pacer Shradul Thakur&rsquo;s 4-52 helped to restrict the home side to a low score.

Prior to this series, South Africa was ranked the No.1 ODI side in the world. After having been thoroughly dismantled by India, they have slipped to the No.2 slot and given the way their team is looking at the present, things do not look very rosy for the Proteas.

India, meanwhile, will be thrilled. Their top order looks in great touch and their bowling, especially that of the spinners, has been regularly choking the opposition. Just to put things in perspective, the Indian bowlers have managed to clinch 51 wickets in the 6 ODIs as compared to just 23 by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-desperation-to-win-games-for-his-side-is-massive-33145">South African</a> bowlers.

The spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, have captured 33 wickets among them and that speaks volumes of the control and dominance they had over the South African batsmen.

The hero of the series for India, apart from the bowlers, has been Virat Kohli. He has not just led from the front, he has been absolutely peerless in the way he has gone about scoring his runs and making a mockery of the South African bowling. In the 6 ODIs, Kohli has garnered a whopping 558 runs at an astounding average of 186 with 3 hundred and one fifty.

His sheer dominance has been phenomenal to witness and there is no denying that we are seeing a living legend blossom on the front of our eyes. In recent memory, no other batsman has single-handedly decimated an opposition so ruthlessly. Perhaps, Sachin&rsquo;s supremacy over Australia in the 1998 season comes close in mind.

Kohli now has 35 ODI hundreds and where exactly does he end up will be fascinating to watch.

While India will be celebrating this momentous series victory, they need to be wary of a few issues as well. Their middle-order needs some changes and flexibility and has clearly struggled to take the initiative when it mattered. They also need a capable finisher at the end stages as Hardik Pandya hasn&rsquo;t really excelled in that role as yet.

If India can sort this issue out then they can go on to dominate everywhere in the world, especially with the variety they now have in their bowling lineup.

For South Africa, it will be back to the drawing board. Clearly, their new set of young players has not been up to the mark and they are overly reliant on yesteryear stalwarts like AB de Villers, Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis to bail them out.

If South Africa hopes to regain their No.1 status and be a force in the 2019 World Cup, then the selectors and the team management need to take a long, hard look for the next generation of cricketers who can lead the team.

Cricket-wise, this ODI series was a dampener. The contest, save for the fourth ODI, was thoroughly one-sided and India cruised to victory in all their games. The fans surely would have expected a lot more fight and thrill as the No.1 and No.2 sides of the world went at loggerheads.

Regardless, team India has been really professional and clinical in their ways and can be proud of this historic achievement. Kudos to them for achieving this spectacular ODI series victory against South Africa on their own turf &ndash; it&rsquo;s a feat that no other visiting Indian team has achieved before.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

The spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, have captured 33 wickets among them and that speaks volumes of the control and dominance they had over the South African batsmen

This is a great time to be an Indian cricket fan. After beating South Africa in the sixth and final ODI at Centurion, India wrapped up a historic series victory by thumping the hosts 5-1. The manner of India’s dominance and South Africa’s abject capitulation has left countless cricket fans shocked. Last night’s ODI was a dead rubber. The series was already decided. And yet, people expected the home team to show fight in order to save some face. That was not to be as on a good batting surface, South Africa was bowled out for just 204 and then Team India brushed aside the target with eight wickets in hand and about 18 overs to spare. Leading the charge was once again captain Virat Kohli, whose magnificent unbeaten 129 made a mockery of the small target. The Indian bowlers, too, were brilliant and young pacer Shradul Thakur’s 4-52 helped to restrict the home side to a low score. Prior to this series, South Africa was ranked the No.1 ODI side in the world. After having been thoroughly dismantled by India, they have slipped to the No.2 slot and given the way their team is looking at the present, things do not look very rosy for the Proteas. India, meanwhile, will be thrilled. Their top order looks in great touch and their bowling, especially that of the spinners, has been regularly choking the opposition. Just to put things in perspective, the Indian bowlers have managed to clinch 51 wickets in the 6 ODIs as compared to just 23 by the South African bowlers. The spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, have captured 33 wickets among them and that speaks volumes of the control and dominance they had over the South African batsmen. The hero of the series for India, apart from the bowlers, has been Virat Kohli. He has not just led from the front, he has been absolutely peerless in the way he has gone about scoring his runs and making a mockery of the South African bowling. In the 6 ODIs, Kohli has garnered a whopping 558 runs at an astounding average of 186 with 3 hundred and one fifty. His sheer dominance has been phenomenal to witness and there is no denying that we are seeing a living legend blossom on the front of our eyes. In recent memory, no other batsman has single-handedly decimated an opposition so ruthlessly. Perhaps, Sachin’s supremacy over Australia in the 1998 season comes close in mind. Kohli now has 35 ODI hundreds and where exactly does he end up will be fascinating to watch. While India will be celebrating this momentous series victory, they need to be wary of a few issues as well. Their middle-order needs some changes and flexibility and has clearly struggled to take the initiative when it mattered. They also need a capable finisher at the end stages as Hardik Pandya hasn’t really excelled in that role as yet. If India can sort this issue out then they can go on to dominate everywhere in the world, especially with the variety they now have in their bowling lineup. For South Africa, it will be back to the drawing board. Clearly, their new set of young players has not been up to the mark and they are overly reliant on yesteryear stalwarts like AB de Villers, Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis to bail them out. If South Africa hopes to regain their No.1 status and be a force in the 2019 World Cup, then the selectors and the team management need to take a long, hard look for the next generation of cricketers who can lead the team. Cricket-wise, this ODI series was a dampener. The contest, save for the fourth ODI, was thoroughly one-sided and India cruised to victory in all their games. The fans surely would have expected a lot more fight and thrill as the No.1 and No.2 sides of the world went at loggerheads. Regardless, team India has been really professional and clinical in their ways and can be proud of this historic achievement. Kudos to them for achieving this spectacular ODI series victory against South Africa on their own turf – it’s a feat that no other visiting Indian team has achieved before. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Magnificent Kohli was crucial in India's win over South Africa

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-1st-t-20-ind-vs-sa-south-africa-india-virat-kohli-suresh-raina-live-score-33260">India has won the first T20</a> International against South Africa at the Wanderers, Johannesburg by 28 runs to take 1-0 series lead in the&nbsp;in the first of the three-match series.

Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl.

The same old problems haunted the South African side as it suffered from inconsistency, poor fielding, bad shot selection and loose bowling which put them on the back foot in the ODI series.

For South Africa, Reeza Hendricks contributed 70 crucial runs and found a determined ally in Behardien but both of them could not stand the attacking bowling&nbsp;of Indian bowlers.

Bhuvneshwar scalped 5 wickets including that of Reeza Hendricks, JP Duminy, Klaasen in his career-best bowling figure.&nbsp;

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4-0-24-5. Career-best bowling figures from <a href="https://twitter.com/BhuviOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhuviOfficial</a>. He also becomes the second Indian to pick up a five-fer in a T20I.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/lvudJkho3A">pic.twitter.com/lvudJkho3A</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/965252846051524609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> win the 1st T20I by 28 runs. 
 
1-0 up in the three-match T20I series.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/60uU74zs8w">pic.twitter.com/60uU74zs8w</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/965254019563376641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For India, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before&nbsp;leaving the ground.

In the fourth over, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">Suresh Raina </a>lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight&nbsp;up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">&nbsp;Raina </a>marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29.

Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 203.

Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs.

Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten.

&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar scalped 5 wickets including that of Reeza Hendricks, JP Duminy, Klaasen in his career-best bowling figure

India has won the first T20 International against South Africa at the Wanderers, Johannesburg by 28 runs to take 1-0 series lead in the in the first of the three-match series. Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl. The same old problems haunted the South African side as it suffered from inconsistency, poor fielding, bad shot selection and loose bowling which put them on the back foot in the ODI series. For South Africa, Reeza Hendricks contributed 70 crucial runs and found a determined ally in Behardien but both of them could not stand the attacking bowling of Indian bowlers. Bhuvneshwar scalped 5 wickets including that of Reeza Hendricks, JP Duminy, Klaasen in his career-best bowling figure. 4-0-24-5. Career-best bowling figures from @BhuviOfficial. He also becomes the second Indian to pick up a five-fer in a T20I.#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/lvudJkho3A — BCCI (@BCCI) February 18, 2018 × #TeamIndia win the 1st T20I by 28 runs. 1-0 up in the three-match T20I series.#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/60uU74zs8w — BCCI (@BCCI) February 18, 2018 × For India, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before leaving the ground. In the fourth over, Suresh Raina lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but Raina marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29. Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 203. Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs. Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten.

1st T20: Bhuvneshwar Kumar's five-wicket haul helps India to take 1-0 series lead

India&#39;s tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">T20 International</a> series which will start from today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg.

For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina.

Raina played his last international T20 match on February 01, 2017 against England at Chinnaswamy Stadium.

On his comeback, Raina told BCCI TV, &quot;I have worked really hard for two years and coming to the Indian team feels like I am playing first time in India jersey&quot;

&quot;I was working hard for my game and waiting for the chance to come and Ravi Bhai (head coach Ravi Shastri) really supported me a lot and also Virat.&quot;

&quot;I am very happy about it, I have worked really hard, played each and every game in domestic cricket,&quot; he further added.

Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance in the T20 against South Africa will act as a decider.

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How&#39;s that for a <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRaina</a> flourish! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/O0KJR4ldww">pic.twitter.com/O0KJR4ldww</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/964872559627038721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;Whenever you play for your country, you desire to perform well. I am very blessed to represent my country, Raina told to a BCCI correspondent.

Raina mentioned &quot;I am a very positive person&quot; and said, &quot;Get back to my Indian jersey and win games for my country.&quot;

Surest Raina praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and said, &quot;Virat has shown immense support to each and every player.&quot;

&quot;Virat is a quality leader and gives importance to each and every person,&quot; he added.

Raina also emphasised the atmosphere of the dressing room and spoke about team&#39;s bonding. He said, &quot;Indian team is happy with each other&#39;s success. I loved the dressing room atmosphere.&quot;

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Snapshots from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>&#39;s stint at the nets ahead of the 1st T20I at The Wanderers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/PmeCwRjvFs">pic.twitter.com/PmeCwRjvFs</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/964867172295159808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Suresh Raina remained out of India cricket team for more than a year and worked hard to register a comeback which most of the players fail to do.

He summarised his chat with the BCCI correspondent by saying, &quot;Setbacks give lessons and make you tough.&quot;

&nbsp;

Suresh Raina remained out of Indian cricket team for more than a year and worked hard for the comeback

India's tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match T20 International series which will start from today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina. Raina played his last international T20 match on February 01, 2017 against England at Chinnaswamy Stadium. On his comeback, Raina told BCCI TV, "I have worked really hard for two years and coming to the Indian team feels like I am playing first time in India jersey" "I was working hard for my game and waiting for the chance to come and Ravi Bhai (head coach Ravi Shastri) really supported me a lot and also Virat." "I am very happy about it, I have worked really hard, played each and every game in domestic cricket," he further added. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance in the T20 against South Africa will act as a decider. How's that for a @ImRaina flourish! #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/O0KJR4ldww — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2018 × "Whenever you play for your country, you desire to perform well. I am very blessed to represent my country, Raina told to a BCCI correspondent. Raina mentioned "I am a very positive person" and said, "Get back to my Indian jersey and win games for my country." Surest Raina praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and said, "Virat has shown immense support to each and every player." "Virat is a quality leader and gives importance to each and every person," he added. Raina also emphasised the atmosphere of the dressing room and spoke about team's bonding. He said, "Indian team is happy with each other's success. I loved the dressing room atmosphere." Snapshots from #TeamIndia's stint at the nets ahead of the 1st T20I at The Wanderers #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/PmeCwRjvFs — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2018 × Suresh Raina remained out of India cricket team for more than a year and worked hard to register a comeback which most of the players fail to do. He summarised his chat with the BCCI correspondent by saying, "Setbacks give lessons and make you tough."

Comeback feels like playing first time in Indian jersey: Raina

India&#39;s tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match T20 International series which will start from&nbsp;today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg.

Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil,&nbsp;Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments,&nbsp;fielding, batting and bowling.

Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly.

Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum.

Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI&nbsp;defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series.

Squad (TBC)

India: &nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni(wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lokesh Rahul, Jaydev Unadkat, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;

South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, JJ Smuts, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy(c), David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen(wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Junior Dala, Dane Paterson, Aaron Phangiso, Farhaan Behardien, Christiaan Jonker, Tabraiz Shamsi

JP Duminy will lead the Proteas and has made few changes in the squad. The T20 line up looks entirely different from what South Africa had in ODI.

As South Africa has to host Australia for a four-Test match series from February 22, hence, the bigs guns are resting for the T20 series.

For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina. Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year&nbsp;ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017.

All eyes are on Suresh Raina as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores.

Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead&nbsp;of World Cup 2019, and his performance&nbsp;will act as a decider.

&nbsp;

Raina played his last international T20 match a year ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on February 01, 2017

India's tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match T20 International series which will start from today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil, Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly. Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum. Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series. Squad (TBC) India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni(wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lokesh Rahul, Jaydev Unadkat, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, JJ Smuts, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy(c), David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen(wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Junior Dala, Dane Paterson, Aaron Phangiso, Farhaan Behardien, Christiaan Jonker, Tabraiz Shamsi JP Duminy will lead the Proteas and has made few changes in the squad. The T20 line up looks entirely different from what South Africa had in ODI. As South Africa has to host Australia for a four-Test match series from February 22, hence, the bigs guns are resting for the T20 series. For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina. Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017. All eyes are on Suresh Raina as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance will act as a decider.

1st T20 India vs South Africa: All eyes on Suresh Raina

South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl&nbsp;in the first&nbsp;T20 match against India&nbsp;at the Wanderers, Johannesburg.

An absolute splendid start for team India was registered by the batsmen, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before&nbsp;leaving the ground.

In the fourth over, Suresh Raina lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight&nbsp;up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but&nbsp;Raina marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29.

Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 2013.

Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs.

Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten.

Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil,&nbsp;Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments,&nbsp;fielding, batting and bowling.

Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly.

Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum.

Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI&nbsp;defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series.

Playing XI:

South Africa:&nbsp;JJ Smuts, Reeza Hendricks, Jean-Paul Duminy(c), David Miller, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dane Paterson, Junior Dala, Tabraiz Shamsi

India:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan showcased cricketing brilliance and knocked 72 runs off 39 balls

South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl in the first T20 match against India at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. An absolute splendid start for team India was registered by the batsmen, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before leaving the ground. In the fourth over, Suresh Raina lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but Raina marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29. Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 2013. Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs. Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten. Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil, Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly. Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum. Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series. Playing XI: South Africa: JJ Smuts, Reeza Hendricks, Jean-Paul Duminy(c), David Miller, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dane Paterson, Junior Dala, Tabraiz Shamsi India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

1st T20 IND vs SA: Dhawan shines, India set 203 as target

Virat Kohli has literally made the 22-yard strip his own kingdom and the India captain is not in a mood to &quot;compete with anyone&quot; for any specific &quot;tag&quot; such as the best batsman in world cricket.

Kohli was again at the forefront scoring a staggering 558 runs (including three hundreds) in his team&#39;s 5-1 ODI series win against South Africa but made it clear that he has never ever played cricket to be a &quot;headline grabber&quot;.

&quot;At this stage, I don&rsquo;t feel like competing with anyone. It&rsquo;s all about how I prepare before the game and what my work ethics are and how I am feeling on game day. My only motivation is to get into that frame of mind. I am not competing with anyone at all,&quot; Kohli said at the post-match press conference.

The key to consistency is not thinking too ahead of himself.

&quot;But if you are thinking about being ahead of someone else then you will be found out very soon by this game and you are compromising on what the team needs as well,&rdquo; the skipper said after anchoring his team home with yet another ODI hundred.

Asked if he can now be termed as the best batsman in world cricket, the straight-talking skipper said: &quot;As I said, I don&rsquo;t want any tags. I don&rsquo;t want any headlines. I just go out there and do my job, it is up to the people to write what they write, I don&rsquo;t want to be called anything.

&quot;It&rsquo;s my job, I am supposed to do what I am doing and I am not doing anyone a favour, so just want to be in this zone of working as hard as I can and trying to do the best for the team,&quot; the skipper added in a matter-of-fact manner.

The skipper once again made it clear that public perceptions are least of his concerns as long as his team knows his worth.

&quot;What matters is what the management thinks about me, what I think about the players and what the players think about me. That&rsquo;s all that matters to me. I know the headlines change from day in and day out. Tomorrow I play a bad shot and get out for zero everyone will conveniently do what they want to do, so it&rsquo;s not my job to say anything about what I do.

&quot;Yes, if I make a mistake I will come here and accept it. I have never been one to give excuses and will remain like that. But I am never one to come here and praise myself. I can never do that because as I said, this is a job for me. I am not doing anyone a favour,&rdquo; the skipper&#39;s statement showed that how much the criticisms in the past has hurt him.

While India&#39;s ODI juggernaut has rolled on, there have been questions raised about the quality of opposition playing ODI cricket and the skipper&#39;s views made it clear that he wasn&#39;t amused one bit. 
Questioned if this was India&#39;s best overseas win, pat came a terse response: &ldquo;You people can tell!&quot;

&quot;One month back we were a very bad team. Now we are being asked these questions. We haven&#39;t changed our mindset. Now whether this is the biggest win or no, whoever wants to analyze, write will do so,&quot; Kohli&#39;s response made it clear from where it was coming.

It was a sense of deja vu for the skipper, who had a slight altercation with the media at this very venue after the team lost the Test series.

&ldquo;I know for a fact that 90 percent people didn&rsquo;t give us a chance after two Tests. I was sitting in the same room giving a press conference. So we understand where we&rsquo;ve come from,&quot; the sarcasm was not lost on anyone.

&quot;I am not going to live in a dreamland right now and accept all the praise, sit here and feel good about this, because it doesn&#39;t matter to me. Honestly it doesn&#39;t. It didn&#39;t matter when we were 2-0 down, it doesn&#39;t matter now that we are 5-1 up because what matters is the respect in the change-room,&quot; the disdain and disregard for the media was once again evident in each and every sentence that he spoke.

The skipper sounded a bit irritated when asked about South Africa being laid low by injuries to senior players.

&ldquo;Whether the team was what it was supposed to be was not in our hands. It&rsquo;s none of our concern. We want to take the best team as far as we can on the field and have the best mindset to perform on every given day that we represent our country. That remains our mind set regardless of what happens.&quot;&nbsp;

The key to consistency is not thinking too ahead of himself

Virat Kohli has literally made the 22-yard strip his own kingdom and the India captain is not in a mood to "compete with anyone" for any specific "tag" such as the best batsman in world cricket. Kohli was again at the forefront scoring a staggering 558 runs (including three hundreds) in his team's 5-1 ODI series win against South Africa but made it clear that he has never ever played cricket to be a "headline grabber". "At this stage, I don’t feel like competing with anyone. It’s all about how I prepare before the game and what my work ethics are and how I am feeling on game day. My only motivation is to get into that frame of mind. I am not competing with anyone at all," Kohli said at the post-match press conference. The key to consistency is not thinking too ahead of himself. "But if you are thinking about being ahead of someone else then you will be found out very soon by this game and you are compromising on what the team needs as well,” the skipper said after anchoring his team home with yet another ODI hundred. Asked if he can now be termed as the best batsman in world cricket, the straight-talking skipper said: "As I said, I don’t want any tags. I don’t want any headlines. I just go out there and do my job, it is up to the people to write what they write, I don’t want to be called anything. "It’s my job, I am supposed to do what I am doing and I am not doing anyone a favour, so just want to be in this zone of working as hard as I can and trying to do the best for the team," the skipper added in a matter-of-fact manner. The skipper once again made it clear that public perceptions are least of his concerns as long as his team knows his worth. "What matters is what the management thinks about me, what I think about the players and what the players think about me. That’s all that matters to me. I know the headlines change from day in and day out. Tomorrow I play a bad shot and get out for zero everyone will conveniently do what they want to do, so it’s not my job to say anything about what I do. "Yes, if I make a mistake I will come here and accept it. I have never been one to give excuses and will remain like that. But I am never one to come here and praise myself. I can never do that because as I said, this is a job for me. I am not doing anyone a favour,” the skipper's statement showed that how much the criticisms in the past has hurt him. While India's ODI juggernaut has rolled on, there have been questions raised about the quality of opposition playing ODI cricket and the skipper's views made it clear that he wasn't amused one bit. Questioned if this was India's best overseas win, pat came a terse response: “You people can tell!" "One month back we were a very bad team. Now we are being asked these questions. We haven't changed our mindset. Now whether this is the biggest win or no, whoever wants to analyze, write will do so," Kohli's response made it clear from where it was coming. It was a sense of deja vu for the skipper, who had a slight altercation with the media at this very venue after the team lost the Test series. “I know for a fact that 90 percent people didn’t give us a chance after two Tests. I was sitting in the same room giving a press conference. So we understand where we’ve come from," the sarcasm was not lost on anyone. "I am not going to live in a dreamland right now and accept all the praise, sit here and feel good about this, because it doesn't matter to me. Honestly it doesn't. It didn't matter when we were 2-0 down, it doesn't matter now that we are 5-1 up because what matters is the respect in the change-room," the disdain and disregard for the media was once again evident in each and every sentence that he spoke. The skipper sounded a bit irritated when asked about South Africa being laid low by injuries to senior players. “Whether the team was what it was supposed to be was not in our hands. It’s none of our concern. We want to take the best team as far as we can on the field and have the best mindset to perform on every given day that we represent our country. That remains our mind set regardless of what happens."

I don't feel like competing with anyone: Virat Kohli

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">India won the 6th ODI</a> as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-desperation-to-win-games-for-his-side-is-massive-33145">Indian team outplayed South African</a> side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling.

Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly.

The credit goes to team management and support staff as well.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692">In pics: Reasons behind India&#39;s historic victory against South Africa</a>

Recently, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli after winning the sixth and final ODI match against the Proteas.

He described Kohli as the &quot;best batsman in the world&quot; in a post-match&nbsp;interview.

He said, &quot;Well, I&#39;m the head coach of the Indian team and I see him batting like this and I&#39;ve seen him bat across all conditions, in all formats and it&#39;s not just averages, it&#39;s the way you get runs, when you get it and the impact those runs have on what the team does. I would safely say he&#39;s the best batsman in the world now.&quot;

Team India will forward to keep the winning momentum in the upcoming T20I series as well which will start from February 18th.

&nbsp;

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli after winning the sixth and final ODI match against the Proteas and described Kohli as the best batsman in the world

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly. The credit goes to team management and support staff as well. In pics: Reasons behind India's historic victory against South Africa Recently, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli after winning the sixth and final ODI match against the Proteas. He described Kohli as the "best batsman in the world" in a post-match interview. He said, "Well, I'm the head coach of the Indian team and I see him batting like this and I've seen him bat across all conditions, in all formats and it's not just averages, it's the way you get runs, when you get it and the impact those runs have on what the team does. I would safely say he's the best batsman in the world now." Team India will forward to keep the winning momentum in the upcoming T20I series as well which will start from February 18th.

'Best batsman in the world now,' says Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692">India won the 6th ODI</a> as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

Virat Kohli slammed 35th century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil.

For his splendid performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI.

A quite brilliant unbeaten <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-in-the-world-now-says-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohli-33154">129 from skipper Virat Kohli</a> helped India cruise to an eight-wicket win.

But for South Africa captain Aiden Markram, leading his side for the first time in a series, it was a chastening experience - and he admitted that his players have plenty of learning to do ahead of the World Cup next year in England.

After losing the sixth and final ODI match he said in the post-match&nbsp;interview that the experience has been &#39;eye-opening&#39; he further added, &quot;The confidence of the side has definitely taken a knock, yes. It&#39;s never nice to lose 5-1 but we have learned lessons.&quot;

&quot;A lot of those lessons have been taught to us by how the Indians have constructed their games.&quot;

&quot;And then their bowlers, they control that middle period really well, they&#39;ve got two quality spinners and they strike up front with the new ball,&quot; South African skipper said while praising Indian bowling side.

He amplified the performance of Indian skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gives-credit-to-wife-anushka-for-his-performance-33118">Virat Kohli</a> and said, &quot;Virat&#39;s desperation to win games for his side is massive and that&#39;s why he condones (conducts) himself like he does and it&#39;s all from a competitive point of view, it&#39;s nothing malicious.

So there&#39;s a lot of things I can learn from him, there&#39;s a lot of things I can learn from their team as a whole and there&#39;s a lot of things I can learn from us as a whole, the Proteas as a whole. So taking&nbsp;little pieces here and there, from various players is helping.&quot;

South Africa captain Aiden Markram admitted that his players have plenty of learning to do ahead of the World Cup next year in England

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. Virat Kohli slammed 35th century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil. For his splendid performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI. A quite brilliant unbeaten 129 from skipper Virat Kohli helped India cruise to an eight-wicket win. But for South Africa captain Aiden Markram, leading his side for the first time in a series, it was a chastening experience - and he admitted that his players have plenty of learning to do ahead of the World Cup next year in England. After losing the sixth and final ODI match he said in the post-match interview that the experience has been 'eye-opening' he further added, "The confidence of the side has definitely taken a knock, yes. It's never nice to lose 5-1 but we have learned lessons." "A lot of those lessons have been taught to us by how the Indians have constructed their games." "And then their bowlers, they control that middle period really well, they've got two quality spinners and they strike up front with the new ball," South African skipper said while praising Indian bowling side. He amplified the performance of Indian skipper Virat Kohli and said, "Virat's desperation to win games for his side is massive and that's why he condones (conducts) himself like he does and it's all from a competitive point of view, it's nothing malicious. So there's a lot of things I can learn from him, there's a lot of things I can learn from their team as a whole and there's a lot of things I can learn from us as a whole, the Proteas as a whole. So taking little pieces here and there, from various players is helping."

'Virat's desperation to win games for his side is massive,' says Aiden Markram

India won the One Day International six-match series against South Africa by 5-1.

Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on&nbsp;the South African soil.

He also becomes first Indian captain to hit three centuries in the single ODI series&nbsp;and also becomes fastest batsman to score 17,000 international runs.

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India captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is the Player of the Series - the first player ever to score over 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series! ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/UCIoL6gF39">pic.twitter.com/UCIoL6gF39</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/964558077101006852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For his magical performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series as he scored 558 runs in the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692#photo-37950">In pics: Reasons behind India&#39;s historic victory against South Africa</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A third century of the series for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> gets him his third Player of the Match award of the series! 
 
He&#39;s the first Indian to score three centuries in a bilateral ODI series! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/2s8EHjQDMw">pic.twitter.com/2s8EHjQDMw</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/964557531858259968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In the post-match interview, he said that he gives credits to the wife (Anushka Sharma) as she always supported him.

He also mentioned that Anushka had been criticised in the past for his&nbsp;poor performance.

So he dedicated the victory and match-winning&nbsp;knock to her.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">Also read:&nbsp;Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory</a>

&nbsp;

In the post-match interview Virat said that he gives credit to his wife Anushka Sharma

India won the One Day International six-match series against South Africa by 5-1. Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil. He also becomes first Indian captain to hit three centuries in the single ODI series and also becomes fastest batsman to score 17,000 international runs. India captain @imVkohli is the Player of the Series - the first player ever to score over 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series! ???? #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/UCIoL6gF39 — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × For his magical performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series as he scored 558 runs in the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI. In pics: Reasons behind India's historic victory against South Africa A third century of the series for @imVkohli gets him his third Player of the Match award of the series! He's the first Indian to score three centuries in a bilateral ODI series! #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/2s8EHjQDMw — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × In the post-match interview, he said that he gives credits to the wife (Anushka Sharma) as she always supported him. He also mentioned that Anushka had been criticised in the past for his poor performance. So he dedicated the victory and match-winning knock to her. Also read: Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory

Virat Kohli gives credit to wife Anushka for his performance

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa&nbsp;at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil.

For his magical performace throughout&nbsp;the series captain Kohli awarded with Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the&nbsp;final ODI.

Earlier India won the toss and opted to bowl and South Africa again struggled to score runs as the batting order did not show any stability.

India kept taking quick wickets and continued to build up the pressure on the South African team.

Opener Aiden Markram scored 24 runs and Hashim Amla scored only 10 runs. The top batting order was thrashed by Shardul Thakur and Yuzi Chahal.

Chahal saw AB de Villiers off and celebrated the moment of taking the biggest wicket by doing a dab. AB scored 30 off 32 balls.

For South Africa, Khaya Zondo scored maximum (54) but could not handle the pressure and edged an easy catch&nbsp;of Chahal&#39;s ball in the safe hands of Hardik Pandya.

Fall of wickets:

23-1 (Hashim Amla, 6.3), 43-2 (Aiden Markram, 9.5), 105-3 (AB de Villiers, 20.5), 135-4 (Heinrich Klaasen, 30.3), 136-5 (Farhaan Behardien, 31.2), 142-6 (Chris Morris, 33.3), 151-7 (Khaya Zondo, 36.6), 187-8 (Morne Morkel, 43.4), 192-9 (Imran Tahir, 45.4), 204-10 (Andile Phehlukwayo, 46.5)

For India, Shardul Thakur came out as star and took four crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10), Farhaan Behardien (1) and Andile Phehlukwayo (34) in his spell of 8.5 overs.

Jasprit Bumrah sends off Heinrich Klaasen (22) and Imran Tahir (2). Hardik Pandya (20) saw off Morne Morkel and Kuldeep Yadav took Chris Morris&#39;s (4) wicket. Yuzi out bowled AB de Villiers (30) and Khaya Zondo (54).

India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable 4-1.

&nbsp;

Shardul Thakur came out as star and took four crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10), Farhaan Behardien (1) and Andile Phehlukwayo (34) in his spell of 8.5 overs

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil. For his magical performace throughout the series captain Kohli awarded with Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI. Earlier India won the toss and opted to bowl and South Africa again struggled to score runs as the batting order did not show any stability. India kept taking quick wickets and continued to build up the pressure on the South African team. Opener Aiden Markram scored 24 runs and Hashim Amla scored only 10 runs. The top batting order was thrashed by Shardul Thakur and Yuzi Chahal. Chahal saw AB de Villiers off and celebrated the moment of taking the biggest wicket by doing a dab. AB scored 30 off 32 balls. For South Africa, Khaya Zondo scored maximum (54) but could not handle the pressure and edged an easy catch of Chahal's ball in the safe hands of Hardik Pandya. Fall of wickets: 23-1 (Hashim Amla, 6.3), 43-2 (Aiden Markram, 9.5), 105-3 (AB de Villiers, 20.5), 135-4 (Heinrich Klaasen, 30.3), 136-5 (Farhaan Behardien, 31.2), 142-6 (Chris Morris, 33.3), 151-7 (Khaya Zondo, 36.6), 187-8 (Morne Morkel, 43.4), 192-9 (Imran Tahir, 45.4), 204-10 (Andile Phehlukwayo, 46.5) For India, Shardul Thakur came out as star and took four crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10), Farhaan Behardien (1) and Andile Phehlukwayo (34) in his spell of 8.5 overs. Jasprit Bumrah sends off Heinrich Klaasen (22) and Imran Tahir (2). Hardik Pandya (20) saw off Morne Morkel and Kuldeep Yadav took Chris Morris's (4) wicket. Yuzi out bowled AB de Villiers (30) and Khaya Zondo (54). India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable 4-1.

Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory

Virat Kohli won the toss and opts to bowl in the sixth ODI match against South Africa at&nbsp;SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

South Africa lost early wickets and struggles in the ongoing match. None of the batsmen were effective in front of the Indian bowling attack.

Shradul Thakur shines and took three crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10) and Farhaan Behardien (1).

India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable&nbsp;4-1.

Earlier the Proteas had won the Teat series of the same tour and Indian team faced a volcano of trolls and criticism for not performing&nbsp;up to the mark.

Unsurprisingly, men in blue shut the backbiters by beating the South African side in all departments, be it batting, bowling, fielding and decision making in the ODI series.

The Proteas were also overshadowed by a series of injuries as their stars players like AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out amid ODI series.

AB marked his come back in the 4th ODI but remained ineffective as Indian team played brilliantly well throughout the series.

There were few loopholes&nbsp;in the Indian squad as well when opener Rohit Sharma remained&nbsp;out of form in the limited overs format until the last ODI when he slammed a magnificent century and regain&nbsp;the momentum.

The middle&nbsp;batting order is still bit weak and the issue of number four spot has to resolve as soon as possible because Virat is doing a lot of experimentation with spot number four it has to be resolved&nbsp;before World Cup 2019.

The bowlers are doing an amazing job and the highlights of India bowling side&nbsp;are Bhuvi unmatchable seam and the Spin Twins (Kuldeep-Chahal). They have delivered some mesmerizing spell and created records.

Where on one hand, the Indian team, world number one, will enter with a high to wrap up the series with a 5-1 score, on the other hand, the South African side will be looking to salvage the cricketing pride.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Playing XI for the 6th and final ODI. Shardul Thakur comes in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/qJuA4HMEXu">pic.twitter.com/qJuA4HMEXu</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/964447823579131904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Both the teams have not made any changes in the squad only Markram has called back&nbsp;Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien and Imran Tahir.

Squad:

South Africa: Hashim Amla, Aiden Markram(c), AB de Villiers, Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Imran Tahir, Morne Morkel, Lungisani Ngidi

India: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

&nbsp;

The Indian team, world number one, will enter with a high to wrap up the series with a 5-1 lead, on the other hand, the South African side will be looking to salvage the cricketing pride

Virat Kohli won the toss and opts to bowl in the sixth ODI match against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. South Africa lost early wickets and struggles in the ongoing match. None of the batsmen were effective in front of the Indian bowling attack. Shradul Thakur shines and took three crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10) and Farhaan Behardien (1). India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable 4-1. Earlier the Proteas had won the Teat series of the same tour and Indian team faced a volcano of trolls and criticism for not performing up to the mark. Unsurprisingly, men in blue shut the backbiters by beating the South African side in all departments, be it batting, bowling, fielding and decision making in the ODI series. The Proteas were also overshadowed by a series of injuries as their stars players like AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out amid ODI series. AB marked his come back in the 4th ODI but remained ineffective as Indian team played brilliantly well throughout the series. There were few loopholes in the Indian squad as well when opener Rohit Sharma remained out of form in the limited overs format until the last ODI when he slammed a magnificent century and regain the momentum. The middle batting order is still bit weak and the issue of number four spot has to resolve as soon as possible because Virat is doing a lot of experimentation with spot number four it has to be resolved before World Cup 2019. The bowlers are doing an amazing job and the highlights of India bowling side are Bhuvi unmatchable seam and the Spin Twins (Kuldeep-Chahal). They have delivered some mesmerizing spell and created records. Where on one hand, the Indian team, world number one, will enter with a high to wrap up the series with a 5-1 score, on the other hand, the South African side will be looking to salvage the cricketing pride. #TeamIndia Playing XI for the 6th and final ODI. Shardul Thakur comes in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/qJuA4HMEXu — BCCI (@BCCI) February 16, 2018 × Both the teams have not made any changes in the squad only Markram has called back Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien and Imran Tahir. Squad: South Africa: Hashim Amla, Aiden Markram(c), AB de Villiers, Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Imran Tahir, Morne Morkel, Lungisani Ngidi India: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

6th ODI IND vs SA: Shardul Thakur strikes thrice, South Africa 148-6 after 36 overs

India&rsquo;s first ever one-day international series victory in South Africa has laid a strong platform for the country&rsquo;s hopes of a successful 2019 World Cup campaign, captain Virat Kohli said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-regains-no1-spot-in-icc-odi-rankings-after-defeating-south-africa-in-5th-odi-32828">Also read:&nbsp;India regains No1 spot in ICC ODI rankings after defeating South Africa in 5th ODI</a>

&ldquo;We are a team that always wants to think of ways we can improve and after this tour, we will look be to even stronger with the 2019 World Cup in mind,&rdquo; he said after India took a 4-1 lead in the six-match series on Tuesday.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a wonderful feeling to have created some history. The guys really got stuck in, with the bat and the ball and in the field as well,&rdquo; he added after the Port Elizabeth triumph.

Success in the series has lifted India above South Africa in the International Cricket Council&rsquo;s one-day rankings and they retained their number one status in tests as well despite losing 2-1 to the South Africans last month.

&ldquo;For now, 4-1 feels amazing. Obviously, the players put up some really good cricket to be in this position,&rdquo; Kohli added.

The last match of the ODI series is in Pretoria on Friday.

&ldquo;We want to win 5-1 but there might be a scenario to give a few (other) guys a chance,&rdquo; Kohli said with the series won using only 12 of India&rsquo;s 17-man squad.

The 2019 World Cup is being hosted by England and Wales, where India won their first global title in 1983 before adding a second on home soil in 2011.

The 2019 World Cup is being hosted by England and Wales, where India won their first global title in 1983 before adding a second on home soil in 2011

India’s first ever one-day international series victory in South Africa has laid a strong platform for the country’s hopes of a successful 2019 World Cup campaign, captain Virat Kohli said. Also read: India regains No1 spot in ICC ODI rankings after defeating South Africa in 5th ODI “We are a team that always wants to think of ways we can improve and after this tour, we will look be to even stronger with the 2019 World Cup in mind,” he said after India took a 4-1 lead in the six-match series on Tuesday. “It’s a wonderful feeling to have created some history. The guys really got stuck in, with the bat and the ball and in the field as well,” he added after the Port Elizabeth triumph. Success in the series has lifted India above South Africa in the International Cricket Council’s one-day rankings and they retained their number one status in tests as well despite losing 2-1 to the South Africans last month. “For now, 4-1 feels amazing. Obviously, the players put up some really good cricket to be in this position,” Kohli added. The last match of the ODI series is in Pretoria on Friday. “We want to win 5-1 but there might be a scenario to give a few (other) guys a chance,” Kohli said with the series won using only 12 of India’s 17-man squad. The 2019 World Cup is being hosted by England and Wales, where India won their first global title in 1983 before adding a second on home soil in 2011.

Virat Kohli eyes World Cup glory after conquering South Africa

India skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday was full of praise for the Men in Blue, claiming that the series win in South Africa was a collective team effort.&quot;I am very pleased, it was another complete performance from us.

They had the pressure of losing this series and we knew that. It`s a history and the guys have worked hard for it. Ever since the third Test in Johannesburg, it`s been a good time for us.

It`s been a collective effort to create history,&quot; Kohli said in the post-match conference.

The Indian team wrapped up the fifth One Day International (ODI) against the Proteas by 73 runs, to register their first bilateral series win in South Africa.

They also climbed up to the number one spot in the MFR ICC ODI Team Rankings.&quot;For now, 4-1 feels great. We want to win 5-1 for sure, but there might a scenario for a few more guys to get a chance in the next match.

But the ultimate priority is to win and we`ll do anything we can to win,&quot; Kohli added.Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma who scored his maiden century on the South African soil said that the century was long due.

&quot;It`s been a long time coming. It`s always a good feeling when you score a hundred and your team wins.

You have to keep yourself in a good frame of mind, that`s what I`ve been doing,&quot; Sharma said after being crowned the man of the match.

The Virat Kohli-led side started the series on the front foot, winning the first three matches with comprehensive wins in Durban, Centurion and Cape Town.

However, India failed to maintain their triumphant run in the series as South Africa bounced back strongly to clinch a five-wicket win over the visiting side by the Duckworth-Lewis method in rain-hit and lightning-struck Pink fourth ODI in Johannesburg.

The sixth ODI will be played on February 16 at SuperSport Park, Centurion.&nbsp;

The sixth ODI will be played on February 16 at SuperSport Park, Centurion

India skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday was full of praise for the Men in Blue, claiming that the series win in South Africa was a collective team effort."I am very pleased, it was another complete performance from us. They had the pressure of losing this series and we knew that. It`s a history and the guys have worked hard for it. Ever since the third Test in Johannesburg, it`s been a good time for us. It`s been a collective effort to create history," Kohli said in the post-match conference. The Indian team wrapped up the fifth One Day International (ODI) against the Proteas by 73 runs, to register their first bilateral series win in South Africa. They also climbed up to the number one spot in the MFR ICC ODI Team Rankings."For now, 4-1 feels great. We want to win 5-1 for sure, but there might a scenario for a few more guys to get a chance in the next match. But the ultimate priority is to win and we`ll do anything we can to win," Kohli added.Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma who scored his maiden century on the South African soil said that the century was long due. "It`s been a long time coming. It`s always a good feeling when you score a hundred and your team wins. You have to keep yourself in a good frame of mind, that`s what I`ve been doing," Sharma said after being crowned the man of the match. The Virat Kohli-led side started the series on the front foot, winning the first three matches with comprehensive wins in Durban, Centurion and Cape Town. However, India failed to maintain their triumphant run in the series as South Africa bounced back strongly to clinch a five-wicket win over the visiting side by the Duckworth-Lewis method in rain-hit and lightning-struck Pink fourth ODI in Johannesburg. The sixth ODI will be played on February 16 at SuperSport Park, Centurion.

'Collective effort to create history': Virat Kohli on series win in South Africa

It&#39;s not easy to maintain a healthy, normal relationship when it is under constant scrutiny and is in the public eye. While a lot of relationships succumb and fail to work in tinsel town, there are some who gives us hope that love can exist in the world of glamour.&nbsp; 
 
So here it is. The five couples who are currently giving us major couple goals.&nbsp; 
 
Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/anushka%20sharma%20&amp;%20virat%20kohli-20180213082858.jpg" />
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Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli (WION)
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We had to begin the list with these two! One of the most celebrated couples of present times, Virat and Anushka have always believed in keeping their relationship a private affair. Their wedding was also a private, intimate affair. But the leaked photos gave us a glimpse of their dream-like Tuscan wedding and the nation just could not get enough of how beautiful they looked together. While Anushka keeps mum about her feelings in public, Virat has often been seen blowing away kisses to his lady love during important matches from the field.&nbsp;

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/deepika%20padukone%20&amp;%20ranveer%20singh-20180213083336.jpg" />
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Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh (WION)
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One of the most glamorous couples, Deepika and Ranveer are the idols for every couple deeply in love with each other. They can&rsquo;t seem to get enough of each other and their PDA is very obvious at every event. Three blockbuster films later, Deepika and Ranveer are still going strong and if reports are to be believed, will tie the knot soon!

Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/richa%20chadha%20and%20ali%20fazal-20180213084646.jpg" />
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Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal (WION)
</div>
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No one knew that these two were dating for the longest time until, last year at the premiere of Victoria and Abdul, Richa wished Ali with the sweetest message as she accompanied him on the red carpet as his date. This lovely couple is the perfect example of young love blossoming into a beautiful relationship. They are seen sharing sweet moments on red carpets in international shores and they do not shy away from indulging in PDA on social media. Ali recently gifted Richa a cat who she adores a lot and the two are very supportive and encouraging of each other&#39;s career as well.&nbsp;

Mira and Shahid Kapoor&nbsp;

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Shahid and Mira Kapoor (WION)
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When they got married, many raised eyebrows about the huge age difference between them. But Shahid Kapoor and Mira Kapoor have worked to make their marriage work and look like a perfect example of everlasting love. Their dedication to one another is evident and that shows how happy they are together. Shahid&rsquo;s cute little gestures for Mira make his female fans go weak in their knees and leaves Mira blushing.&nbsp;

Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/sonam%20kapoor%20&amp;%20anand%20ahuja-20180213084046.jpg" />
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Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja (WION)
</div>
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They may not speak about their relationship in public, but Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja&#39;s PDA on social media is for everyone to see. Distance has never kept them from expressing their love for each other and their delightful posts about each other speak a lot about their love for each other. While there hasn&#39;t been any official announcement, but reports suggest that two are tying the knot in mid-April this year!

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/karan-bipaha-20180213085238.jpg" />
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Bipasha Basu and Karan Johar (Bollywoodlife.com)
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A couple that works out together, stays together. Fitness freaks Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover are often seen going for their gym sessions together. The couple who met while filming for a movie have been married for more than a year and still look completely smitten by each other.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

They are new age couples, who do not shy away from indulging in PDA on public forums.

It's not easy to maintain a healthy, normal relationship when it is under constant scrutiny and is in the public eye. While a lot of relationships succumb and fail to work in tinsel town, there are some who gives us hope that love can exist in the world of glamour. So here it is. The five couples who are currently giving us major couple goals. Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli (WION) × We had to begin the list with these two! One of the most celebrated couples of present times, Virat and Anushka have always believed in keeping their relationship a private affair. Their wedding was also a private, intimate affair. But the leaked photos gave us a glimpse of their dream-like Tuscan wedding and the nation just could not get enough of how beautiful they looked together. While Anushka keeps mum about her feelings in public, Virat has often been seen blowing away kisses to his lady love during important matches from the field. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh (WION) × One of the most glamorous couples, Deepika and Ranveer are the idols for every couple deeply in love with each other. They can’t seem to get enough of each other and their PDA is very obvious at every event. Three blockbuster films later, Deepika and Ranveer are still going strong and if reports are to be believed, will tie the knot soon! Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal (WION) × No one knew that these two were dating for the longest time until, last year at the premiere of Victoria and Abdul, Richa wished Ali with the sweetest message as she accompanied him on the red carpet as his date. This lovely couple is the perfect example of young love blossoming into a beautiful relationship. They are seen sharing sweet moments on red carpets in international shores and they do not shy away from indulging in PDA on social media. Ali recently gifted Richa a cat who she adores a lot and the two are very supportive and encouraging of each other's career as well. Mira and Shahid Kapoor Shahid and Mira Kapoor (WION) × When they got married, many raised eyebrows about the huge age difference between them. But Shahid Kapoor and Mira Kapoor have worked to make their marriage work and look like a perfect example of everlasting love. Their dedication to one another is evident and that shows how happy they are together. Shahid’s cute little gestures for Mira make his female fans go weak in their knees and leaves Mira blushing. Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja (WION) × They may not speak about their relationship in public, but Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja's PDA on social media is for everyone to see. Distance has never kept them from expressing their love for each other and their delightful posts about each other speak a lot about their love for each other. While there hasn't been any official announcement, but reports suggest that two are tying the knot in mid-April this year! Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover Bipasha Basu and Karan Johar (Bollywoodlife.com) × A couple that works out together, stays together. Fitness freaks Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover are often seen going for their gym sessions together. The couple who met while filming for a movie have been married for more than a year and still look completely smitten by each other.

Valentine's Day special: The Bollywood celebrities who give us couple goals

Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s hard-fought knock of 115 took India to 274-7 from their 50 overs during the fifth ODI against South Africa here on Tuesday.

The South African bowlers, especially Lungi Ngidi (4/51), have brought the Proteas back into the game.&nbsp;

After winning the toss, South Africa put India to bat. Shikhar Dhawan (34 runs) was the first to depart, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli put up a 105-run partnership for the fourth wicket.&nbsp;

The Indian captain&rsquo;s life at the field with the bat was short-lived as he departed for 36.

Ajinkya Rahane (8) was the next to follow Kohli after another confusion between the wickets. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Rohit carried on showing his batting prowess and went on to score his 17th ODI ton, hitting 10 boundaries and 4 sixes in the run-up to his century.&nbsp;

South Africa will hope to chase down the total and stay alive in the series when they come out to bat.

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South Africa have won the toss and elected to bowl first in the 5th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> ODI in Port Elizabeth. Will they be able to restrict India and keep the series alive? 
 
Follow LIVE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/BYzPaf9WOg">https://t.co/BYzPaf9WOg</a> <a href="https://t.co/H7aT8euy2v">pic.twitter.com/H7aT8euy2v</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/963365886026424320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Squad:

South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Hashim Amla, Jean-Paul Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Lungisani Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Tabraiz Shamsi

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, MS Dhoni (wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

&nbsp;

The Men in Blue lead the six-match series by 3-1 and looking forward to winning the series

Rohit Sharma’s hard-fought knock of 115 took India to 274-7 from their 50 overs during the fifth ODI against South Africa here on Tuesday. The South African bowlers, especially Lungi Ngidi (4/51), have brought the Proteas back into the game. After winning the toss, South Africa put India to bat. Shikhar Dhawan (34 runs) was the first to depart, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli put up a 105-run partnership for the fourth wicket. The Indian captain’s life at the field with the bat was short-lived as he departed for 36. Ajinkya Rahane (8) was the next to follow Kohli after another confusion between the wickets. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Rohit carried on showing his batting prowess and went on to score his 17th ODI ton, hitting 10 boundaries and 4 sixes in the run-up to his century. South Africa will hope to chase down the total and stay alive in the series when they come out to bat. South Africa have won the toss and elected to bowl first in the 5th #SAvIND ODI in Port Elizabeth. Will they be able to restrict India and keep the series alive? Follow LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/BYzPaf9WOg pic.twitter.com/H7aT8euy2v — ICC (@ICC) February 13, 2018 × Squad: South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Hashim Amla, Jean-Paul Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Lungisani Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Tabraiz Shamsi India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, MS Dhoni (wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

5th ODI: India beat South Africa by 73 runs, win series 4-1

India is looking to avoid a series whitewash when they play against South Africa in the third and final Test at the Wanderers Stadium which will start&nbsp;from January 24.

The Indian batting line in both the previous matches suffered some serious damage. Although, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has hailed his bowlers, who have claimed 20 wickets in both Tests so far.

Recently, the team was criticised for taking a day out of practice session and planning a small trip to jungle safari instead of practice.

With such criticism going about, Virat&#39;s captaincy is currently&nbsp;under scrutiny. Many veteran&nbsp;cricketers have raised questions on Virat&#39;s decisions and team selection.

Even veteran cricketers are raising questions commenting on the team selection and game strategies.

Former Indian team captain Sunil Gavaskar also expressed his views on the performance of Parthiv Patel, who replaced wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddiman Saha.

He said that MS Dhoni&#39;s advice in the dressing room would have been invaluable.

&quot;I would have actually liked him to maybe give up captaincy and still stay in the team as wicketkeeper-batsman,&quot; Gavaskar said.

The&nbsp;third and final Test is definitely a Litmus Test for team India and men in blue is training hard to salvage the pride.

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WHACK! Out of the ground this one from <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bk3euApHG9">pic.twitter.com/Bk3euApHG9</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/955381274453204992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Alert! Slip cordon at it this moment <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jWXAB3Jhf6">pic.twitter.com/jWXAB3Jhf6</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/955357364387016706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India has a decent record&nbsp;at the Wanderers pitch they have yet to be beaten in Tests there, with a win and three draws going back to 1992/93.

Cheteshwar Pujara made 153 in the second innings of the 2013/14 match and India will be seeking an improvement from their number three batsman, who has made only 49 runs in four innings, including being run out in both innings in Centurion.

Ajinkya Rahane, who did not play in the first two Tests, had a lengthy net at the weekend and could be recalled on the strength of a strong record in overseas Tests.

Dinesh Karthik was flown in as a replacement for injured wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and could play at the expense of Parthiv Patel, who had a poor game with the gloves in Centurion.

With their formidable fast bowling attack, coupled with more resolute batting and better fielding in the first two Tests, South Africa will again start favourites although they will be wary of a potential Indian backlash. Rain could interfere with play on as many as four days.

Squad: (TBC)

South Africa: Faf du Plessis (captain), Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Vernon Philander, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel, Lungi Ngidi.

India: Virat Kohli (captain), Murali Vijay, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wkt), Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.

&nbsp;

India has a decent record at the Wanderers pitch they have yet to be beaten in Tests there, with a win and three draws going back to 1992/93

India is looking to avoid a series whitewash when they play against South Africa in the third and final Test at the Wanderers Stadium which will start from January 24. The Indian batting line in both the previous matches suffered some serious damage. Although, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has hailed his bowlers, who have claimed 20 wickets in both Tests so far. Recently, the team was criticised for taking a day out of practice session and planning a small trip to jungle safari instead of practice. With such criticism going about, Virat's captaincy is currently under scrutiny. Many veteran cricketers have raised questions on Virat's decisions and team selection. Even veteran cricketers are raising questions commenting on the team selection and game strategies. Former Indian team captain Sunil Gavaskar also expressed his views on the performance of Parthiv Patel, who replaced wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddiman Saha. He said that MS Dhoni's advice in the dressing room would have been invaluable. "I would have actually liked him to maybe give up captaincy and still stay in the team as wicketkeeper-batsman," Gavaskar said. The third and final Test is definitely a Litmus Test for team India and men in blue is training hard to salvage the pride. WHACK! Out of the ground this one from @ImRo45 #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/Bk3euApHG9 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2018 × Alert! Slip cordon at it this moment #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/jWXAB3Jhf6 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2018 × India has a decent record at the Wanderers pitch they have yet to be beaten in Tests there, with a win and three draws going back to 1992/93. Cheteshwar Pujara made 153 in the second innings of the 2013/14 match and India will be seeking an improvement from their number three batsman, who has made only 49 runs in four innings, including being run out in both innings in Centurion. Ajinkya Rahane, who did not play in the first two Tests, had a lengthy net at the weekend and could be recalled on the strength of a strong record in overseas Tests. Dinesh Karthik was flown in as a replacement for injured wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and could play at the expense of Parthiv Patel, who had a poor game with the gloves in Centurion. With their formidable fast bowling attack, coupled with more resolute batting and better fielding in the first two Tests, South Africa will again start favourites although they will be wary of a potential Indian backlash. Rain could interfere with play on as many as four days. Squad: (TBC) South Africa: Faf du Plessis (captain), Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Vernon Philander, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel, Lungi Ngidi. India: Virat Kohli (captain), Murali Vijay, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wkt), Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.

India vs South Africa 3rd Test: India look to salvage pride

Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith raised serious questions on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/preview/article/29817" target="_blank">Indian skipper Virat Kohli&#39;s leadership capabilities</a>, saying he lacks the patience required for a leader to raise the overall level of his team.

Smith, who was speaking at an event organised by South African channel SuperSport, wondered if Kohli was the right choice for the captaincy in the longer run for Indian cricket.

&quot;I don&#39;t know, when I look at him, if he is a long-term captaincy option for India,&quot; Smith said.&nbsp;

&quot;At the end of this year, he&#39;d have been away from home for a while, the pressure he&#39;ll face, the scrutiny from the press - I know he only gets that in India - but if you&#39;re away from home and you&#39;re struggling for form as a team, I don&#39;t know if I&#39;d want to burden Virat Kohli with that... Or if India have a better leader in that environment.&quot;

Smith, who was accompanied to the talking show with former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar, criticised the lack of a constructive person in the Indian dressing room who could challenge Virat Kohli with different ideas, than just being a &#39;yes-man&#39;&nbsp;

&quot;When I look at Virat, I think he needs someone in the support staff who can constructively challenge him and help him grow.&quot;

&quot;I think if he had a really constructive person in his environment, who could talk to him, make him think, maybe even challenge him with some different ideas, in a constructive way, not an angry or aggressive way, but make him think, open his eyes to other possibilities, that would make him a really good leader,&quot; Smith added.

However, the cricket legend was all praise of Kohli&#39;s playing capabilities after he was criticised not just because India lost both the matches against South Africa but for the ways he chose to react to the situations and even confronting anyone who questions his choices.

&quot;He has all the capabilities tactically, he knows his own game, he sets the standard in the field for everyone else. Sometimes as a leader you&#39;ve got to consider how you impact the others in the environment, that&#39;s an area of his leadership that he needs to grow. You can see, he&#39;s often at his players. He&#39;s very aware, he&#39;s focus on the game is on, sweeping or mid-on.&quot;

The right-handed batsman has already been fined 25% of his match fee for bad conduct and showing dissent against the umpire during the third day&rsquo;s play of second Test against South Africa in Centurion.

Although, Gavaskar was not as critical as Smith but felt that Kohli needed to connect better with his team-mates and that could help him raise the level of the Indian team.

After the loss in first two Tests, Gavaskar remembered MS Dhoni&#39;s approach to lead the Indian Cricket team in a foreign soil.&nbsp;

Kohli was fined 25% of his match fee for showing dissent against the umpire during the second Test

Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith raised serious questions on Indian skipper Virat Kohli's leadership capabilities, saying he lacks the patience required for a leader to raise the overall level of his team. Smith, who was speaking at an event organised by South African channel SuperSport, wondered if Kohli was the right choice for the captaincy in the longer run for Indian cricket. "I don't know, when I look at him, if he is a long-term captaincy option for India," Smith said. "At the end of this year, he'd have been away from home for a while, the pressure he'll face, the scrutiny from the press - I know he only gets that in India - but if you're away from home and you're struggling for form as a team, I don't know if I'd want to burden Virat Kohli with that... Or if India have a better leader in that environment." Smith, who was accompanied to the talking show with former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar, criticised the lack of a constructive person in the Indian dressing room who could challenge Virat Kohli with different ideas, than just being a 'yes-man' "When I look at Virat, I think he needs someone in the support staff who can constructively challenge him and help him grow." "I think if he had a really constructive person in his environment, who could talk to him, make him think, maybe even challenge him with some different ideas, in a constructive way, not an angry or aggressive way, but make him think, open his eyes to other possibilities, that would make him a really good leader," Smith added. However, the cricket legend was all praise of Kohli's playing capabilities after he was criticised not just because India lost both the matches against South Africa but for the ways he chose to react to the situations and even confronting anyone who questions his choices. "He has all the capabilities tactically, he knows his own game, he sets the standard in the field for everyone else. Sometimes as a leader you've got to consider how you impact the others in the environment, that's an area of his leadership that he needs to grow. You can see, he's often at his players. He's very aware, he's focus on the game is on, sweeping or mid-on." The right-handed batsman has already been fined 25% of his match fee for bad conduct and showing dissent against the umpire during the third day’s play of second Test against South Africa in Centurion. Although, Gavaskar was not as critical as Smith but felt that Kohli needed to connect better with his team-mates and that could help him raise the level of the Indian team. After the loss in first two Tests, Gavaskar remembered MS Dhoni's approach to lead the Indian Cricket team in a foreign soil.

Virat Kohli has to be free from 'yes-men' in order to grow as Captain: Graeme Smith

Indian batting line once again fell prey to South African pacers, with men in blue losing four wickets in quick succession on the Day 1 of the third and final Test match.

After Virat Kohli&#39;s wicket, Pujara continued to hold the team stood firm in front of the pace attack.&nbsp;

However, after reaching his half-century, Pujara was sent back to the pavilion by Phehlukwayo at 50.

Since then the wickets started to fall.

After 70 overs, India&#39;s score stands at 164 for the loss of eight wickets. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane, who was roped in seeing his overseas performance, did not stand up to the expectations and was out on 9.

Parthiv Patel also went back for 2. All-rounder Ajinkya Rahane did not even open his account and was caught out by Phehlukwayo. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Virat Kohli, who once again kept India afloat against South Africa on Day 1 after the openers failed to contribute anything, smashed a gritty 54 runs off 106 balls to reach his 16th Test half-century.

However, the right-handed batsman was caught out by AB de Villiers of Lungi Ngidi, soon after his century.

Opener M Vijay once again got off to a wrong start with Vernon Philander striking early.&nbsp;

Whereas, KL Rahul once again touched a ball that was pitched slightly outside off and gave an easy catch behind the wickets to Quinton de Kock.&nbsp;

India on Wednesday won the toss and opted to bat first at the Wanderers Stadium.

After losing two consecutive Test matches, India is playing very cautiously to avoid a series whitewash.

After Virat Kohli's wicket, Pujara continued to hold the team stood firm in front of the pace attack.

Indian batting line once again fell prey to South African pacers, with men in blue losing four wickets in quick succession on the Day 1 of the third and final Test match. After Virat Kohli's wicket, Pujara continued to hold the team stood firm in front of the pace attack. However, after reaching his half-century, Pujara was sent back to the pavilion by Phehlukwayo at 50. Since then the wickets started to fall. After 70 overs, India's score stands at 164 for the loss of eight wickets. Ajinkya Rahane, who was roped in seeing his overseas performance, did not stand up to the expectations and was out on 9. Parthiv Patel also went back for 2. All-rounder Ajinkya Rahane did not even open his account and was caught out by Phehlukwayo. Virat Kohli, who once again kept India afloat against South Africa on Day 1 after the openers failed to contribute anything, smashed a gritty 54 runs off 106 balls to reach his 16th Test half-century. However, the right-handed batsman was caught out by AB de Villiers of Lungi Ngidi, soon after his century. Opener M Vijay once again got off to a wrong start with Vernon Philander striking early. Whereas, KL Rahul once again touched a ball that was pitched slightly outside off and gave an easy catch behind the wickets to Quinton de Kock. India on Wednesday won the toss and opted to bat first at the Wanderers Stadium. After losing two consecutive Test matches, India is playing very cautiously to avoid a series whitewash.

India loses 4 wickets in quick succession, are 164/8 after 70 overs

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