<p>KL Rahul suffered a blow to his elbow during an intra-squad game simulation at the WACA in Perth, while the remaining batters struggled against the moving deliveries and bounce. In the lead-up to the first BGT Test against Australia at the Optus Stadium starting November 22, Rahul’s latest injury rocks the Indian camp.</p>

<p>Returning to playing at the top in red-ball cricket after being asked to play in the middle for the past few years, Rahul opened with Jaiswal, making early inroads with some clean&nbsp;striking but departed soon after.</p>

<p>While KL Rahul was taken off the field following suffering a blow to his right elbow of a rising delivery from lanky Prasidh Krishna, Jaiswal edged one to the second slip on 15.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2024-4th-t20i-india-eye-first-away-series-win-under-suryakumar-yadav-776365">SA vs IND 2024, 4th T20I: India eye first away series win under Suryakumar Yadav</a></strong></p>

<p>New number three for India in Tests, Shubman Gill began slowly and struggled to get going during his two-hour stay at the crease before getting caught at gully on 28 of Navdeep Saini.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ace Indian batter Virat Kohli shrugged off fitness concerns with a brief yet comfortable stay at the crease. He hit a few cracking shots through the covers but nicked to the second slip off Mukesh Kumar on 15. Per the latest reports, Kohli immediately returned to nearby nets, spending over half an hour honing his skills.</p>

<p>Rishabh Pant, India’s best batter on the tour Down Under, coped with a nasty blow to his groin before falling prey to Nitish Kumar Reddy, who also accounted for Dhruv Jurel, caught in the slips. Though Pant struggled against the bounce during net sessions in Perth, he smoked a four on the off-side early into his innings.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Rahul’s elbow injury&nbsp;worries India</h2>

<p>The Indian Team and fans are unaware of Rohit Sharma's status for the first Test in Perth, with multiple reports suggesting that the India captain might miss it for personal reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, before boarding the flight for Australia, India head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media in Mumbai, confirming that should Rohit remain absent for the Perth game, KL Rahul might open with Jaiswal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this latest injury upsetting the whole scenario, should Rahul also miss the first game against Australia, India-A batter and domestic giant Abhimanyu Easwaran will fill in for him at the top. In the recently concluded two unofficial Tests against Australia A, the right-handed batter failed to press his case for a Test debut, scoring 36 runs in four outings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


KL Rahul suffered a blow to his elbow during an intra-squad game simulation at the WACA in Perth, while the remaining batters struggled against the moving deliveries and bounce.

KL Rahul suffered a blow to his elbow during an intra-squad game simulation at the WACA in Perth, while the remaining batters struggled against the moving deliveries and bounce. In the lead-up to the first BGT Test against Australia at the Optus Stadium starting November 22, Rahul’s latest injury rocks the Indian camp. Returning to playing at the top in red-ball cricket after being asked to play in the middle for the past few years, Rahul opened with Jaiswal, making early inroads with some clean striking but departed soon after. While KL Rahul was taken off the field following suffering a blow to his right elbow of a rising delivery from lanky Prasidh Krishna, Jaiswal edged one to the second slip on 15. ALSO READ: SA vs IND 2024, 4th T20I: India eye first away series win under Suryakumar Yadav New number three for India in Tests, Shubman Gill began slowly and struggled to get going during his two-hour stay at the crease before getting caught at gully on 28 of Navdeep Saini. Ace Indian batter Virat Kohli shrugged off fitness concerns with a brief yet comfortable stay at the crease. He hit a few cracking shots through the covers but nicked to the second slip off Mukesh Kumar on 15. Per the latest reports, Kohli immediately returned to nearby nets, spending over half an hour honing his skills. Rishabh Pant, India’s best batter on the tour Down Under, coped with a nasty blow to his groin before falling prey to Nitish Kumar Reddy, who also accounted for Dhruv Jurel, caught in the slips. Though Pant struggled against the bounce during net sessions in Perth, he smoked a four on the off-side early into his innings. Rahul’s elbow injury worries India The Indian Team and fans are unaware of Rohit Sharma's status for the first Test in Perth, with multiple reports suggesting that the India captain might miss it for personal reasons. However, before boarding the flight for Australia, India head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media in Mumbai, confirming that should Rohit remain absent for the Perth game, KL Rahul might open with Jaiswal. With this latest injury upsetting the whole scenario, should Rahul also miss the first game against Australia, India-A batter and domestic giant Abhimanyu Easwaran will fill in for him at the top. In the recently concluded two unofficial Tests against Australia A, the right-handed batter failed to press his case for a Test debut, scoring 36 runs in four outings. (With inputs from agencies)

KL Rahul's elbow injury rocks Indian camp as batters struggle against bounce in WACA match simulation

<p>India’s star batter Virat Kohli has completed 366 days since his last international hundred, one year to date since his famous knock against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium to help the Men in Blue reach the final of the ODI World Cup. While form has been a concern for the veteran batter, it has been a bitter-sweet year for the former India captain as he prepares to take the field against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Nov 22 in Perth.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat completes one year since the last international ton</strong></h2>

<p>Taking to the field on 15 Nov 2023 against the Kiwis, who have haunted him in the past and present (after a 0-3 Test series defeat), Virat smashed 117 off 113 deliveries to help India reach 397/4. The ton helped India reach the ODI World Cup final before Australia rocked the Men in Blue in the final in Ahmedabad on Nov 19.</p>

<p>Since the World Cup semifinal, the 36-year-old has scored 626 international runs in 28 innings, averaging 23.19 for an innings. After the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, he has scored only two fifties for India in all formats while registering four ducks.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-rohit-and-dravid-wasted-10-years-of-my-sons-career-claims-sanju-samsons-father-776013">MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father</a></strong></p>

<p>While the ODI World Cup final loss came as a huge heartbreak for the&nbsp;star, he would play a match-winning knock in the T20 World Cup final in June to help India lift the coveted trophy for the second time.</p>

<h2><strong>Will Virat end the century drought?</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian batter will be next in action on Nov 22 when India face Australia in the opening contest of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Over the years he has a great record against Australia, who are also his favourite Test opponent. He has scored 1352 runs in 25 innings Down Under, also being his favourite away territory. With 2042 runs in 44 innings, Aussies have always been his favoured red-ball opponents, the only nation against whom he has scored more than 2000 Test runs.</p>

<p>Overall, conditions and opponents favour the veteran and it should not be a surprise if he ends his century drought at the home of the World Test Championship (WTC) holders.</p>


India’s star batter Virat Kohli has completed 366 days since his last international hundred, one year to date since his famous knock against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium to help the Men in Blue reach the final of the ODI World Cup.

India’s star batter Virat Kohli has completed 366 days since his last international hundred, one year to date since his famous knock against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium to help the Men in Blue reach the final of the ODI World Cup. While form has been a concern for the veteran batter, it has been a bitter-sweet year for the former India captain as he prepares to take the field against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Nov 22 in Perth. Virat completes one year since the last international ton Taking to the field on 15 Nov 2023 against the Kiwis, who have haunted him in the past and present (after a 0-3 Test series defeat), Virat smashed 117 off 113 deliveries to help India reach 397/4. The ton helped India reach the ODI World Cup final before Australia rocked the Men in Blue in the final in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Since the World Cup semifinal, the 36-year-old has scored 626 international runs in 28 innings, averaging 23.19 for an innings. After the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, he has scored only two fifties for India in all formats while registering four ducks. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father While the ODI World Cup final loss came as a huge heartbreak for the star, he would play a match-winning knock in the T20 World Cup final in June to help India lift the coveted trophy for the second time. Will Virat end the century drought? The Indian batter will be next in action on Nov 22 when India face Australia in the opening contest of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Over the years he has a great record against Australia, who are also his favourite Test opponent. He has scored 1352 runs in 25 innings Down Under, also being his favourite away territory. With 2042 runs in 44 innings, Aussies have always been his favoured red-ball opponents, the only nation against whom he has scored more than 2000 Test runs. Overall, conditions and opponents favour the veteran and it should not be a surprise if he ends his century drought at the home of the World Test Championship (WTC) holders.

Virat Kohli completes one year since his last international hundred, could he end the drought in BGT?

<p>Sanju Samson's father&nbsp;Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats&nbsp;of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run&nbsp;at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but&nbsp;recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation.</p>

<h2><strong>'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid&nbsp;destroyed 10 years of my son's life'</strong></h2>

<p>Vishwanath,&nbsp;in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life."</p>

<p>Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined,&nbsp;"The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-3rd-t20i-tilak-varmas-maiden-ton-gives-india-unbeatable-series-lead-in-high-scoring-thriller-775993">Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller</a></strong></p>

<p>Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that."</p>

<p>At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but&nbsp;followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead&nbsp;after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).</p>


Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy).

Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation. 'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid destroyed 10 years of my son's life' Vishwanath, in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life." Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined, "The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis." Also read: Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that." At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).

MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father

<p>Former Australia captain Michael Clarke isn't sure if the upcoming India-Australia Test series will be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's last tour of Australia. However, if it is so, Clarke opined that it will be due to retirement as the duo 'won't be dropped'. The ex-skipper, however, has backed the two to be among the runs in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 edition. Rohit and Kohli have not been in great touch and managed only 91 and 93 runs, respectively, in the three Tests versus New Zealand, at home. It was&nbsp;one of the&nbsp;major reasons for India being whitewashed by the Kiwis. While Clarke agreed that they have earned some slack, he feels both will do well in Australia.</p>

<p>Speaking on Rohit and Kohli's future, Clarke said in 'Around the Wicket' podcast, "If it's their last time here in Australia, I think it will be retirement. They won't be dropped, but it the same breath, I think every cricketer knows that if you're not making runs or taking wickets, there will be conversations around that kind of a thing. Being the captain of the team, you get a slack for that, and if you're the world's best batter for the last 10 years – maybe longer – across formats, I think Virat may get a bit more slack than somebody else.</p>

<p>He further opined, "I hope for this series' sake, Test cricket's sakes, they both come out, get back to their best form and score plenty of runs for India, but also Test cricket. We want to see the Australian attack which is a good one, take on the top-order batting of India which is pretty strong in itself."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-rohit-and-dravid-wasted-10-years-of-my-sons-career-claims-sanju-samsons-father-776013">MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father</a></strong></p>

<p>Clarke is optimistic of both Rohit and Kohli being among runs and going past their poor form. He added, "I think they are probably coming into Australian conditions where they both like playing. Rohit Sharma plays fast bowling as good as anyone in that team. Certainly, short-pitch bowling – he'll take the Aussie on with that hook shot and he plays it up over third man. And Virat is class. His record his phenomenal. He has scored six hundreds in 13 Tests, averages over 50 in Australian conditions. My brain doesn't say they're going to come here and fail. They will be tough to get out and I think the Australian bowlers will need to find a way to dismiss them both early in the innings as often as they possibly can."</p>

<p>Kohli averages&nbsp;54.08 with six hundred and four fifties in Australia in 13 Tests. Meanwhile, Rohit averages a mere 31.38 including three half-centuries.</p>

<p>India's tour of Australia kicks off later this month, on Nov 22,&nbsp;with the five-match Test series opener at Perth.&nbsp;</p>


Former Australia captain Michael Clarke isn't sure if the upcoming India-Australia Test series will be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's last tour of Australia. However, if it is so, Clarke opined that it will be due to retirement as the duo 'won't be dropped'.

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke isn't sure if the upcoming India-Australia Test series will be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's last tour of Australia. However, if it is so, Clarke opined that it will be due to retirement as the duo 'won't be dropped'. The ex-skipper, however, has backed the two to be among the runs in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 edition. Rohit and Kohli have not been in great touch and managed only 91 and 93 runs, respectively, in the three Tests versus New Zealand, at home. It was one of the major reasons for India being whitewashed by the Kiwis. While Clarke agreed that they have earned some slack, he feels both will do well in Australia. Speaking on Rohit and Kohli's future, Clarke said in 'Around the Wicket' podcast, "If it's their last time here in Australia, I think it will be retirement. They won't be dropped, but it the same breath, I think every cricketer knows that if you're not making runs or taking wickets, there will be conversations around that kind of a thing. Being the captain of the team, you get a slack for that, and if you're the world's best batter for the last 10 years – maybe longer – across formats, I think Virat may get a bit more slack than somebody else. He further opined, "I hope for this series' sake, Test cricket's sakes, they both come out, get back to their best form and score plenty of runs for India, but also Test cricket. We want to see the Australian attack which is a good one, take on the top-order batting of India which is pretty strong in itself." Also read: MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father Clarke is optimistic of both Rohit and Kohli being among runs and going past their poor form. He added, "I think they are probably coming into Australian conditions where they both like playing. Rohit Sharma plays fast bowling as good as anyone in that team. Certainly, short-pitch bowling – he'll take the Aussie on with that hook shot and he plays it up over third man. And Virat is class. His record his phenomenal. He has scored six hundreds in 13 Tests, averages over 50 in Australian conditions. My brain doesn't say they're going to come here and fail. They will be tough to get out and I think the Australian bowlers will need to find a way to dismiss them both early in the innings as often as they possibly can." Kohli averages 54.08 with six hundred and four fifties in Australia in 13 Tests. Meanwhile, Rohit averages a mere 31.38 including three half-centuries. India's tour of Australia kicks off later this month, on Nov 22, with the five-match Test series opener at Perth.

If it is their last time in Australia, it will be retirement: Clarke on Rohit-Kohli, backs duo for BGT 2024/25

<p>Star India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has opened up on the famous Indian Premier League (IPL 2016) final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) where he shared the&nbsp;dressing room with Virat Kohli. RCB, playing in their third IPL final lost to David Warner’s SRH which still haunts the franchise as they are yet to taste success in the competition. Recalling the memories, Rahul reckons had he or Virat stayed longer on the field, RCB could have won the final.</p>

<h2><strong>Rahul opens up on IPL 2016 final</strong></h2>

<p>“It’s a long time ago, but it’s still fresh in my memories. I and Virat (Kohli) always talked about it a few times that 2016 is always a reminder that had one of us played a little longer, it would have been very different. It would have been a fairytale to be right at the bottom to win seven games to qualify and then win the final at home,” Rahul said on a show on Star Sports.</p>

<p>Chasing 209 runs to win the IPL final, RCB fell short by eight runs to hand the title to SRH&nbsp;despite playing the final in their backyard,&nbsp;M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Rahul was dismissed for 11 by Ben Cutting while Virat Kohli’s 54-run did not help the cause. Chris Gayle also scored 76 runs for RCB in the match but no big partnership in the middle overs restricted Bengaluru to 200/7.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-formula-one-rui-marques-succeeds-niels-wittich-as-new-race-director-775680">Formula One: Rui Marques succeeds Niels Wittich as new race director</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite being 114/0 in 10 overs at one stage, Virat’s side ran out of luck and lost their third IPL final. Virat also missed out on a historic 1000-mark and ended the season with 973 runs in 16 matches.</p>

<h2><strong>Rahul back to RCB?</strong></h2>

<p>While much will depend on equations on the auction table, Rahul’s recent release from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has paved the way for speculations of his comeback to RCB. He represented the franchise from 2013 to 2016 before joining Punjab Kings and LSG.</p>


Star India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has opened up on the famous Indian Premier League (IPL 2016) final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) where he shared the dressing room with Virat Kohli.

Star India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has opened up on the famous Indian Premier League (IPL 2016) final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) where he shared the dressing room with Virat Kohli. RCB, playing in their third IPL final lost to David Warner’s SRH which still haunts the franchise as they are yet to taste success in the competition. Recalling the memories, Rahul reckons had he or Virat stayed longer on the field, RCB could have won the final. Rahul opens up on IPL 2016 final “It’s a long time ago, but it’s still fresh in my memories. I and Virat (Kohli) always talked about it a few times that 2016 is always a reminder that had one of us played a little longer, it would have been very different. It would have been a fairytale to be right at the bottom to win seven games to qualify and then win the final at home,” Rahul said on a show on Star Sports. Chasing 209 runs to win the IPL final, RCB fell short by eight runs to hand the title to SRH despite playing the final in their backyard, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Rahul was dismissed for 11 by Ben Cutting while Virat Kohli’s 54-run did not help the cause. Chris Gayle also scored 76 runs for RCB in the match but no big partnership in the middle overs restricted Bengaluru to 200/7. ALSO READ | Formula One: Rui Marques succeeds Niels Wittich as new race director Despite being 114/0 in 10 overs at one stage, Virat’s side ran out of luck and lost their third IPL final. Virat also missed out on a historic 1000-mark and ended the season with 973 runs in 16 matches. Rahul back to RCB? While much will depend on equations on the auction table, Rahul’s recent release from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has paved the way for speculations of his comeback to RCB. He represented the franchise from 2013 to 2016 before joining Punjab Kings and LSG.

KL Rahul recalls 'heartbreaking' 2016 IPL final, says 'me and Virat talked about it few times'

<p>India have a stern task against Australia in the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, starting on Nov. 22 in Perth. Ahead of the series, India have a lot of concerns with captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli not being at their usual best. In the home series versus Bangladesh and New Zealand, both Rohit and Kohli struggled for runs. Hence, many ardent Indian fans are concerned about their&nbsp;form. However, former BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma has backed the two superstar batters, saying 'players like them are never out of form'.</p>

<p>Chetan told Times of India, "Let's honour and respect what Rohit and Virat have done for the country. Players like Rohit and Virat are never out of form. They are never in a lean or bad patch. These words shouldn't be used for them. We are thankful to them. They are still doing it. We always talk about them and focus on them and want them to shine every time because they are superstars. Just wait and watch what Rohit and Virat do in Australia. They will dazzle with their bats."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-players-will-tell-you-ponting-feels-shamis-absence-is-real-chink-in-the-armour-for-india-775502">BGT 2024/25: ‘Players will tell you...,’ Ponting feels Shami’s absence is ‘real chink in the armour for India’</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, both Rohit and Kohli were woefully out of form against Bangladesh and New Zealand. While Hitman's aggressive approach led to his downfall, Kohli continued to struggle versus spin and often paid the price for trying to score in a hurry. As a result,&nbsp;Rohit scored 133 runs at an average of 13.30, with a solitary half-century in 10 innings. His scores&nbsp;were 6, 5, 23, 8, 2, 52, 0, 8, 18 and 11 in the five Tests, (two against the Bangla Tiger and&nbsp;three versus NZ).</p>

<p>On the other hand, Kohli amassed&nbsp;192 runs in 10 innings at an poor average of 21.33, with one fifty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see how Kohli and Rohit respond to the challenge versus the Aussies.</p>

<p><strong>India squad for 2024/25 BGT:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.</p>

<p><strong>Travelling reserves:</strong>&nbsp;Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed</p>


India have a stern task against Australia in the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, starting on Nov. 22 in Perth. Ahead of the series, India have a lot of concerns with captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli not being at their usual best.

India have a stern task against Australia in the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, starting on Nov. 22 in Perth. Ahead of the series, India have a lot of concerns with captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli not being at their usual best. In the home series versus Bangladesh and New Zealand, both Rohit and Kohli struggled for runs. Hence, many ardent Indian fans are concerned about their form. However, former BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma has backed the two superstar batters, saying 'players like them are never out of form'. Chetan told Times of India, "Let's honour and respect what Rohit and Virat have done for the country. Players like Rohit and Virat are never out of form. They are never in a lean or bad patch. These words shouldn't be used for them. We are thankful to them. They are still doing it. We always talk about them and focus on them and want them to shine every time because they are superstars. Just wait and watch what Rohit and Virat do in Australia. They will dazzle with their bats." Also read: BGT 2024/25: ‘Players will tell you...,’ Ponting feels Shami’s absence is ‘real chink in the armour for India’ Notably, both Rohit and Kohli were woefully out of form against Bangladesh and New Zealand. While Hitman's aggressive approach led to his downfall, Kohli continued to struggle versus spin and often paid the price for trying to score in a hurry. As a result, Rohit scored 133 runs at an average of 13.30, with a solitary half-century in 10 innings. His scores were 6, 5, 23, 8, 2, 52, 0, 8, 18 and 11 in the five Tests, (two against the Bangla Tiger and three versus NZ). On the other hand, Kohli amassed 192 runs in 10 innings at an poor average of 21.33, with one fifty. It will be interesting to see how Kohli and Rohit respond to the challenge versus the Aussies. India squad for 2024/25 BGT: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar. Travelling reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed

Players like Rohit and Virat are...: Ex-BCCI chief selector on under fire Indian duo before Australia Tests

<p>Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting says the hosts must remain wary of a turnaround in Virat Kohli’s form in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as India's batting great loves scoring against the Oz, especially in their backyard. Kohli is far from his best run in Tests, having last scored a Test hundred against West Indies last year, but despite his array of poor scores, the batting legend is just one inning away from finding his Midas touch, reckons Ponting.</p>

<p>Against New Zealand in the recently concluded Test series at home, in which India lost 0-3, Kohli scored just 93 runs across six outings, averaging a mere 15.50.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
With his struggle against spin making headlines worldwide, Kohli returns to Down Under to continue his love affair against bounce and pace, where he averages 54.08 from 13 Tests, including six hundreds and four fifties.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-fly-with-bgt-bound-india-squad-but-perth-test-participation-remains-uncertain-report-774830">BGT: Rohit Sharma to fly to Australia but Perth Test participation remains uncertain – Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Ponting, a batting great himself, refused to judge Kohli for his lean patch, saying great players should never be questioned, and Kohli falls in the same category.</p>

<p>“I’ve said it before about Virat — you don’t ever question the greats of the game. There’s no doubt he’s a great of the game. He loves playing against Australia. In fact, I know he loves playing against Australia. And his record (in Australia) is very good. If there’s a time for him to turn it around, it’d be this series. So, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Virat make runs in the first game,” Ponting said to ICC.</p>

<h2><strong>Form a concern though</strong></h2>

<p>Since the start of this year, Virat’s Test average reads 22.72 from six games – his lowest in Tests in a calendar year since 2011. The dip in his form also resulted in Kohli falling out of the top 20 batters in the ICC Test Rankings for the first time in his career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Ponting remains aware of the threat Kohli brings with him, he showed concern over his stat that reads Virat has scored just two Test hundreds in the past five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I saw a stat the other day about Virat; it said he’s only scored two (three) Test hundreds in the last five years. That didn’t seem right to me, but if that is right, then that is, I mean, that’s a concern. There wouldn’t be anyone else probably even playing international cricket as a top-order batsman that’s only scored two Test match hundreds in five years,” Ponting continued.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India and Australia will face off in the first Test in Perth starting November 22. The remaining four matches will take place in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting says the hosts must remain wary of a turnaround in Virat Kohli’s form in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as India's batting great loves scoring against the Oz, especially in their backyard.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting says the hosts must remain wary of a turnaround in Virat Kohli’s form in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as India's batting great loves scoring against the Oz, especially in their backyard. Kohli is far from his best run in Tests, having last scored a Test hundred against West Indies last year, but despite his array of poor scores, the batting legend is just one inning away from finding his Midas touch, reckons Ponting. Against New Zealand in the recently concluded Test series at home, in which India lost 0-3, Kohli scored just 93 runs across six outings, averaging a mere 15.50. With his struggle against spin making headlines worldwide, Kohli returns to Down Under to continue his love affair against bounce and pace, where he averages 54.08 from 13 Tests, including six hundreds and four fifties. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma to fly to Australia but Perth Test participation remains uncertain – Report Ponting, a batting great himself, refused to judge Kohli for his lean patch, saying great players should never be questioned, and Kohli falls in the same category. “I’ve said it before about Virat — you don’t ever question the greats of the game. There’s no doubt he’s a great of the game. He loves playing against Australia. In fact, I know he loves playing against Australia. And his record (in Australia) is very good. If there’s a time for him to turn it around, it’d be this series. So, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Virat make runs in the first game,” Ponting said to ICC. Form a concern though Since the start of this year, Virat’s Test average reads 22.72 from six games – his lowest in Tests in a calendar year since 2011. The dip in his form also resulted in Kohli falling out of the top 20 batters in the ICC Test Rankings for the first time in his career. Though Ponting remains aware of the threat Kohli brings with him, he showed concern over his stat that reads Virat has scored just two Test hundreds in the past five years. “I saw a stat the other day about Virat; it said he’s only scored two (three) Test hundreds in the last five years. That didn’t seem right to me, but if that is right, then that is, I mean, that’s a concern. There wouldn’t be anyone else probably even playing international cricket as a top-order batsman that’s only scored two Test match hundreds in five years,” Ponting continued. Meanwhile, India and Australia will face off in the first Test in Perth starting November 22. The remaining four matches will take place in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Ricky Ponting warns Oz of a turnaround in Virat Kohli’s form, says ‘he loves playing against Australia’

<p>Former Australia captain and batting great Ian Chappell has warned the touring Indian Team from going overboard in their attacking approach against Australia Down Under this time. India, who will enter the marquee Border-Gavaskar Trophy after suffering a maiden Test whitewash against New Zealand at home, is under pressure to deliver and win in Australia for the record third straight time. India, however, is also fighting for the spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final next year.</p>

<p>Chappell addressed Team India’s batting issues, including discussing their struggles against spin (at home) and extra bounce (away). Chappell opined that although some of their youngsters – Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill are in form, the touring side is aware and worried about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s dying reflexes, considering their age and performance lately.</p>

<p>The former Aussie legend added that if India tries to be over-aggressive in their shot selection Down Under, extra bounce might catch them up, further exposing their batting vulnerabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India have got some batting problems. I think Jaiswal is a very good-looking young player, a left-hand opener, I think Gill can really play. But then you've got Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who are both ageing, and you get to that point where people start talking about it, and maybe it starts to creep into your head a little bit (where you think), 'Am I getting to that age where it starts to go downhill?', and they're both at that age."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The only thing I'd say against that is they're coming to Australia where the pitches are pretty good, but there'll be the extra bounce, and if they have gone over the top, then the extra bounce will find them out," Chappell said on Wide World of Sports’ Outside the Rope show.</p>

<h2>Pressure on youngsters</h2>

<p>With Team India overlooking Test giants Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane for this tour and Rohit and Virat struggling to get among the runs, the pressure has fallen on youngsters, who failed to justify their selections in the past year or so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chappell reckons that India is overly relying on youngsters (Jaiswal, Gill, Sarfaraz Khan and even Dhruv Jurel) to deliver against the high-flying Aussies so much&nbsp;that the thought of them winning the third time could suffer a beating.</p>

<p>“They (India) have moved on Pujara, and they've moved on Rahane, and they've left Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, their best two players, but all of a sudden they've had a bit of a rocky period... and that has put pressure now on the younger guys and also their lower-order. You still need to make the bulk of your runs from your best players, and over the last probably 12 or 18 months that hasn't been the case for India,” he continued.</p>

<p>The Optus Stadium in Perth will host the first Test starting November 22,&nbsp;with Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney scheduled to stage the remaining four matches.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Australia captain and batting great Ian Chappell has warned the touring Indian Team from going overboard in their attacking approach against Australia Down Under this time.

Former Australia captain and batting great Ian Chappell has warned the touring Indian Team from going overboard in their attacking approach against Australia Down Under this time. India, who will enter the marquee Border-Gavaskar Trophy after suffering a maiden Test whitewash against New Zealand at home, is under pressure to deliver and win in Australia for the record third straight time. India, however, is also fighting for the spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final next year. Chappell addressed Team India’s batting issues, including discussing their struggles against spin (at home) and extra bounce (away). Chappell opined that although some of their youngsters – Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill are in form, the touring side is aware and worried about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s dying reflexes, considering their age and performance lately. The former Aussie legend added that if India tries to be over-aggressive in their shot selection Down Under, extra bounce might catch them up, further exposing their batting vulnerabilities. “India have got some batting problems. I think Jaiswal is a very good-looking young player, a left-hand opener, I think Gill can really play. But then you've got Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who are both ageing, and you get to that point where people start talking about it, and maybe it starts to creep into your head a little bit (where you think), 'Am I getting to that age where it starts to go downhill?', and they're both at that age." "The only thing I'd say against that is they're coming to Australia where the pitches are pretty good, but there'll be the extra bounce, and if they have gone over the top, then the extra bounce will find them out," Chappell said on Wide World of Sports’ Outside the Rope show. Pressure on youngsters With Team India overlooking Test giants Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane for this tour and Rohit and Virat struggling to get among the runs, the pressure has fallen on youngsters, who failed to justify their selections in the past year or so. Chappell reckons that India is overly relying on youngsters (Jaiswal, Gill, Sarfaraz Khan and even Dhruv Jurel) to deliver against the high-flying Aussies so much that the thought of them winning the third time could suffer a beating. “They (India) have moved on Pujara, and they've moved on Rahane, and they've left Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, their best two players, but all of a sudden they've had a bit of a rocky period... and that has put pressure now on the younger guys and also their lower-order. You still need to make the bulk of your runs from your best players, and over the last probably 12 or 18 months that hasn't been the case for India,” he continued. The Optus Stadium in Perth will host the first Test starting November 22, with Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney scheduled to stage the remaining four matches. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Ian Chappell explains how over-aggressive approach could cost India Down Under

<p>Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma had the sweetest birthday post for her husband Virat Kohli. The Indian cricketer turned 36 on November 5 and his wife took to Instagram to share a photo of him with the couple's two children.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The photo has Virat holding his son Akaay and his daughter Vamika close. The photo has been clicked in London presumably where the family spends a lot of their time now.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In the photo, Virat has Akaay strapped to him while he holds daughter Vamika. This is the first time that Anushka has shared a photo of the couple's son. They welcomed the baby earlier this year. Anushka did not reveal the faces of her children in the photo, covering the faces with emojis.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The photo received much love from fans as many gushed over the cuteness of the photo. &nbsp;“Aww akaay and vami," a comment read. “King with Prince and Princess," added another. “Post of the day!!" a third comment read. “So cute and adorable," another user wrote.</p>

<p>One of the most celebrated couples in India, Anushka and Virat have maintained a low profile for the past year. While fans get to see Virat on the ground as part of the cricketing tournaments, Anushka has limited her public appearances. It is rumoured that the couple has moved to the UK and is settling there. However, the couple has yet to address these claims.</p>

<p>Anushka was last seen in a film called<em> Zero</em> in 2018, which co-starred Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. She made an appearance in <em>Qala, </em>a film co-produced by her, but has not starred in a film for years now. The actress has shot <em>Chakda Xpress,</em> a biopic on cricketer Jhulan Goswami. The film is yet to release in theatres.&nbsp;</p>


Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma had the sweetest birthday post for her husband Virat Kohli. The Indian cricketer turned 36 on November 5 and his wife took to Instagram to share a photo of him with the couple's two children.

Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma had the sweetest birthday post for her husband Virat Kohli. The Indian cricketer turned 36 on November 5 and his wife took to Instagram to share a photo of him with the couple's two children. The photo has Virat holding his son Akaay and his daughter Vamika close. The photo has been clicked in London presumably where the family spends a lot of their time now. In the photo, Virat has Akaay strapped to him while he holds daughter Vamika. This is the first time that Anushka has shared a photo of the couple's son. They welcomed the baby earlier this year. Anushka did not reveal the faces of her children in the photo, covering the faces with emojis. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × The photo received much love from fans as many gushed over the cuteness of the photo. “Aww akaay and vami," a comment read. “King with Prince and Princess," added another. “Post of the day!!" a third comment read. “So cute and adorable," another user wrote. One of the most celebrated couples in India, Anushka and Virat have maintained a low profile for the past year. While fans get to see Virat on the ground as part of the cricketing tournaments, Anushka has limited her public appearances. It is rumoured that the couple has moved to the UK and is settling there. However, the couple has yet to address these claims. Anushka was last seen in a film called Zero in 2018, which co-starred Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. She made an appearance in Qala, a film co-produced by her, but has not starred in a film for years now. The actress has shot Chakda Xpress, a biopic on cricketer Jhulan Goswami. The film is yet to release in theatres.

Anushka Sharma posts adorable photo of Virat Kohli with children on his birthday

<p>India’s star batter Virat Kohli took a major hit on his International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings after a poor show in the New Zealand series. In the ICC men’s rankings announced on Wednesday (Nov 6), Virat got dropped out of the top 20 for the first time in almost a decade, having scored just 93 runs across six innings during the series. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant is now sixth in the standings with 750 rating points after having impressed with the bat.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat out of the top 20</strong></h2>

<p>In the latest rankings, Virat took a massive hit and now sits 22nd with 655 rating points, having been a major failure with the bat. The former India captain’s highest score was 70, which came in the second innings of the Bengaluru Test. Apart from that, the rest of the five innings yielded a meager 23 runs, while he averaged 15.5 runs per inning.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Pant scored 261 runs in the three-match Test series, averaging 43.5 runs per innings. Pant returned to the Test format after a massive 21-month gap due to a near-fatal car accident. Pant scored a hundred in his return Test match in September against Bangladesh in Chennai, which also played an important role in India’s series win.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bbl-david-warner-takes-over-as-sydney-thunder-skipper-after-captaincy-ban-lifted-773852">BBL: David Warner takes over as Sydney Thunder skipper after captaincy ban lifted</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, India's young batter Yashasvi Jaiswal took a slight hit and now sits fourth in the ranking, scoring 190 runs in six innings and amassing 189 runs in the Bangladesh series. He remains the most consistent performer in the Indian side despite India’s massive failure against New Zealand.</p>

<p>The Indian batters will have the opportunity to bounce back in the Test rankings during the Australia Test series, which starts on November 22, with eyes on big players like Pant and Virat. India need to win the series 4-0 if they are to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) in June 2025.</p>


India’s star batter Virat Kohli took a major hit on his International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings after a poor show in the New Zealand series. In the ICC men’s rankings announced on Wednesday (Nov 6), Virat got dropped out of the top 20 for the first time in almost a decade, having scored just 93 runs across six innings during the series.

India’s star batter Virat Kohli took a major hit on his International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings after a poor show in the New Zealand series. In the ICC men’s rankings announced on Wednesday (Nov 6), Virat got dropped out of the top 20 for the first time in almost a decade, having scored just 93 runs across six innings during the series. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant is now sixth in the standings with 750 rating points after having impressed with the bat. Virat out of the top 20 In the latest rankings, Virat took a massive hit and now sits 22nd with 655 rating points, having been a major failure with the bat. The former India captain’s highest score was 70, which came in the second innings of the Bengaluru Test. Apart from that, the rest of the five innings yielded a meager 23 runs, while he averaged 15.5 runs per inning. On the other hand, Pant scored 261 runs in the three-match Test series, averaging 43.5 runs per innings. Pant returned to the Test format after a massive 21-month gap due to a near-fatal car accident. Pant scored a hundred in his return Test match in September against Bangladesh in Chennai, which also played an important role in India’s series win. ALSO READ | BBL: David Warner takes over as Sydney Thunder skipper after captaincy ban lifted Besides, India's young batter Yashasvi Jaiswal took a slight hit and now sits fourth in the ranking, scoring 190 runs in six innings and amassing 189 runs in the Bangladesh series. He remains the most consistent performer in the Indian side despite India’s massive failure against New Zealand. The Indian batters will have the opportunity to bounce back in the Test rankings during the Australia Test series, which starts on November 22, with eyes on big players like Pant and Virat. India need to win the series 4-0 if they are to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) in June 2025.

ICC Test Ranking: Virat Kohli out of top 20 for first time in almost decade after dismal show in NZ series

<p>Indian cricketer Virat&nbsp;Kohli turns&nbsp;36&nbsp;on Tuesday (Nov 5). As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a heartfelt post for the superstar Indian cricketer on X, formerly Twitter. Kohli, who is gearing up for India's five-match Test series versus Australia in Australia, was also wished by a plethora of his ardent fans as they also expressed their desire for him to keep piling up runs for Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is BCCI's post:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">5⃣3⃣8⃣ intl. matches &amp; counting 👌<br />
2⃣7⃣1⃣3⃣4⃣ intl. runs &amp; counting 🙌<br />
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2⃣0⃣1⃣1⃣ ICC World Cup Winner 🏆<br />
2⃣0⃣1⃣3⃣ ICC Champions Trophy Winner 🏆<br />
2⃣0⃣2⃣4⃣ ICC Men's T20 World Cup Winner 🏆<br />
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Here's wishing Virat Kohli - Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain &amp; one of the finest batters - a very… <a href="https://t.co/gh4p3EFCO9">pic.twitter.com/gh4p3EFCO9</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1853626430468624808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketing-world-agrees-india-legend-slams-bccis-short-gain-policies-after-new-zealand-whitewash-773248">‘Cricketing world agrees…’ – India legend slams BCCI’s ‘short-gain policies’ after New Zealand whitewash</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here are some of the replies of his fans on BCCI's post as many joined in to wish Kohli:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday King 👑 <a href="https://t.co/ySveJGJTWC">https://t.co/ySveJGJTWC</a></p>
— Pankaj (@Pankaj41627) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pankaj41627/status/1853626749394776297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">-World best All' three formats bestman - Virat Kohli<br />
-Runs Machine of team india - Virat Kohli<br />
-Second Most hundred in International cricket - Virat Kohli<br />
- best Indian test captain ever - Virat Kohli<br />
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Happy birthday legend King Virat Kohli sir 🎂🎂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohlibirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohlibirthday</a> <a href="https://t.co/T6pMsAYFVr">pic.twitter.com/T6pMsAYFVr</a></p>
— JassPreet (@JassPreet96) <a href="https://twitter.com/JassPreet96/status/1853639592210993567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday KING of White Ball Cricket!! <a href="https://t.co/pwD7P8iPDo">pic.twitter.com/pwD7P8iPDo</a></p>
— Mustafa Moudi (@Mustafamoudi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mustafamoudi/status/1853629329227334066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> 👑<br />
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A King was born, who rules the heart of his fans and inspires millions to chase their dreams! 🥺🤍</p>
— BiggBoss24x7 (@BB24x7_) <a href="https://twitter.com/BB24x7_/status/1853641434554913192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday, Virat Kohli!<br />
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Age of Excellence: Celebrating another year of your extraordinary journey, not just in age, but in excellence and cricketing prowess.<br />
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Captaincy Legacy: Under your leadership, the Indian cricket team has achieved:<br />
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Test Wins: You've led India to…</p>
— Death By DooM (@LeastVisited) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeastVisited/status/1853626713449877713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Best wishes of birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayKingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayKingKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/W67iLa6Wan">pic.twitter.com/W67iLa6Wan</a></p>
— 🇮🇳A.Sikandar ( ❤️Raaj S...❤️ ) (@realA_Sikandar) <a href="https://twitter.com/realA_Sikandar/status/1853627152970756278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli debuted for India in 2008. Soon, he became a household name and was a regular in the side following the retirement of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, etc. Since then, he kept piling runs across formats and even led the national side from 2015 to early 2022. During his captaincy, India reached the No. 1 ranking in Tests, dominated at home and competed hard in the away series whereas also played the 2017 Champions Trophy final and reached the semifinals of the 2019 ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Kohli amassed 765 runs -- most ever by any batter in a single edition. He also scored his 50th century in the format during the semifinals, the most by any in ODI cricket. In June 2024, he announced his retirement, along with Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, from T20Is (as the second-highest run-getter) following India's T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies and the USA.</p>

<p>At present, Kohli has 27,134 international runs with 80 centuries. While he is going through a bad phase, with only one fifty in six innings in the just-concluded home series versus New Zealand (where India got whitewashed), the 36-year-old will vow to bounce back strongly in the forthcoming Australia tour, starting on Nov 22. Kohli will also be India's key member in their upcoming campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy.</p>

<p>Kohli, who has already won both World Cups, is in the last phase of his illustrious career. He will surely like to step aside by also winning the WTC and CT titles.</p>


Indian cricketer Virat Kohli turns 36 on Tuesday (Nov 5). As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a heartfelt post for the superstar Indian cricketer on X, formerly Twitter.

Indian cricketer Virat Kohli turns 36 on Tuesday (Nov 5). As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a heartfelt post for the superstar Indian cricketer on X, formerly Twitter. Kohli, who is gearing up for India's five-match Test series versus Australia in Australia, was also wished by a plethora of his ardent fans as they also expressed their desire for him to keep piling up runs for Team India. Here is BCCI's post: 5⃣3⃣8⃣ intl. matches & counting 👌 2⃣7⃣1⃣3⃣4⃣ intl. runs & counting 🙌 2⃣0⃣1⃣1⃣ ICC World Cup Winner 🏆 2⃣0⃣1⃣3⃣ ICC Champions Trophy Winner 🏆 2⃣0⃣2⃣4⃣ ICC Men's T20 World Cup Winner 🏆 Here's wishing Virat Kohli - Former #TeamIndia Captain & one of the finest batters - a very… pic.twitter.com/gh4p3EFCO9 — BCCI (@BCCI) November 5, 2024 × Also read: ‘Cricketing world agrees…’ – India legend slams BCCI’s ‘short-gain policies’ after New Zealand whitewash Here are some of the replies of his fans on BCCI's post as many joined in to wish Kohli: Happy Birthday King 👑 https://t.co/ySveJGJTWC — Pankaj (@Pankaj41627) November 5, 2024 × -World best All' three formats bestman - Virat Kohli -Runs Machine of team india - Virat Kohli -Second Most hundred in International cricket - Virat Kohli - best Indian test captain ever - Virat Kohli Happy birthday legend King Virat Kohli sir 🎂🎂#ViratKohlibirthday pic.twitter.com/T6pMsAYFVr — JassPreet (@JassPreet96) November 5, 2024 × Happy Birthday KING of White Ball Cricket!! pic.twitter.com/pwD7P8iPDo — Mustafa Moudi (@Mustafamoudi) November 5, 2024 × Happy Birthday #ViratKohli 👑 A King was born, who rules the heart of his fans and inspires millions to chase their dreams! 🥺🤍 — BiggBoss24x7 (@BB24x7_) November 5, 2024 × Happy Birthday, Virat Kohli! Age of Excellence: Celebrating another year of your extraordinary journey, not just in age, but in excellence and cricketing prowess. Captaincy Legacy: Under your leadership, the Indian cricket team has achieved: Test Wins: You've led India to… — Death By DooM (@LeastVisited) November 5, 2024 × Best wishes of birthday #ViratKohli #HappyBirthdayKingKohli pic.twitter.com/W67iLa6Wan — 🇮🇳A.Sikandar ( ❤️Raaj S...❤️ ) (@realA_Sikandar) November 5, 2024 × Kohli debuted for India in 2008. Soon, he became a household name and was a regular in the side following the retirement of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, etc. Since then, he kept piling runs across formats and even led the national side from 2015 to early 2022. During his captaincy, India reached the No. 1 ranking in Tests, dominated at home and competed hard in the away series whereas also played the 2017 Champions Trophy final and reached the semifinals of the 2019 ODI World Cup. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Kohli amassed 765 runs -- most ever by any batter in a single edition. He also scored his 50th century in the format during the semifinals, the most by any in ODI cricket. In June 2024, he announced his retirement, along with Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, from T20Is (as the second-highest run-getter) following India's T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies and the USA. At present, Kohli has 27,134 international runs with 80 centuries. While he is going through a bad phase, with only one fifty in six innings in the just-concluded home series versus New Zealand (where India got whitewashed), the 36-year-old will vow to bounce back strongly in the forthcoming Australia tour, starting on Nov 22. Kohli will also be India's key member in their upcoming campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Kohli, who has already won both World Cups, is in the last phase of his illustrious career. He will surely like to step aside by also winning the WTC and CT titles.

BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love

The Indian Cricket team was whitewashed 3-0 by New Zealand, leading to fierce criticism of the Men In Blue. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma struggled in the series and the duo's future in the test team is in doubt. Wion's Eric Njoka gets you the details.

New Zealand Condemn India to 'Embarrassing' Whitewash

<p>India got whitewashed by New Zealand in the three-match Test series following their unsuccessful 147-run chase on Day 3 of the final Test in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Thus, Kiwis&nbsp;became the first Test team to inflict a 3-0 whitewash over India in India. Following this drubbing, BCCI is expected to take some tough calls with regard to the senior players' Test future after the upcoming Australia tour.</p>

<p>An informal discussion is likely to&nbsp;take place between BCCI bigwigs,&nbsp;chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and skipper Rohit Sharma about the way forward for an ageing team comprising Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja. The trio along with Rohit had an ordinary run in the NZ series, raising questions and, thus, the Australia tour could give a clear picture regarding their Test future.</p>

<p>"Stocks will be taken certainly and it could be of informal nature since the team leaves for Australia on November 10. But this has been a huge debacle but, with Australia series round the corner and the squad already announced, there won't be any tinkering," a senior BCCI source told PTI on the condition of anonymity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-in-danger-of-missing-wtc-final-after-new-zealand-whitewash-heres-how-they-can-still-make-it-772952">India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it</a></strong></p>

<p>"But if India doesn't qualify for WTC final in England, one can be rest assured that all four super seniors won't be on that flight to UK for the ensuing five-Test series. In any case, all four have likely played their final Test at home together," the source further&nbsp;added.</p>

<p>After the humiliating series whitewash, captain Rohit was&nbsp;asked for his thoughts on India's Test future given the&nbsp;limited time left in his captaincy. He stated,&nbsp;"Look, I don't think we can look that far ahead. It's important to focus on the next series, which is Australia."</p>

<p>"I'm not going to look beyond Australia series. Australia series, for us is now very, very important. We will try and focus on that rather than thinking what happens after," he opined.</p>

<p>India's next Test assignment is a five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia. The forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) kicks off on Nov 22 in Perth. India need four wins from their remaining five games in the WTC 2023-25 cycle to reach the final (to be held next year in June).</p>


India got whitewashed by New Zealand in the three-match Test series following their unsuccessful 147-run chase on Day 3 of the final Test in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3).

India got whitewashed by New Zealand in the three-match Test series following their unsuccessful 147-run chase on Day 3 of the final Test in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Thus, Kiwis became the first Test team to inflict a 3-0 whitewash over India in India. Following this drubbing, BCCI is expected to take some tough calls with regard to the senior players' Test future after the upcoming Australia tour. An informal discussion is likely to take place between BCCI bigwigs, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and skipper Rohit Sharma about the way forward for an ageing team comprising Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja. The trio along with Rohit had an ordinary run in the NZ series, raising questions and, thus, the Australia tour could give a clear picture regarding their Test future. "Stocks will be taken certainly and it could be of informal nature since the team leaves for Australia on November 10. But this has been a huge debacle but, with Australia series round the corner and the squad already announced, there won't be any tinkering," a senior BCCI source told PTI on the condition of anonymity. Also read: India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it "But if India doesn't qualify for WTC final in England, one can be rest assured that all four super seniors won't be on that flight to UK for the ensuing five-Test series. In any case, all four have likely played their final Test at home together," the source further added. After the humiliating series whitewash, captain Rohit was asked for his thoughts on India's Test future given the limited time left in his captaincy. He stated, "Look, I don't think we can look that far ahead. It's important to focus on the next series, which is Australia." "I'm not going to look beyond Australia series. Australia series, for us is now very, very important. We will try and focus on that rather than thinking what happens after," he opined. India's next Test assignment is a five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia. The forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) kicks off on Nov 22 in Perth. India need four wins from their remaining five games in the WTC 2023-25 cycle to reach the final (to be held next year in June).

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report

<p>Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth.</p>

<p>Scoring just 91 runs in three Tests, Rohit failed to provide the start India longed for in this series, resulting in them falling behind every time. However, he lamented the collective batting failure behind India&nbsp;losing a Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. The last time a touring team beat India in India was England in 2012 when they won the four-match series 2-1.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-win-mumbai-test-to-claim-series-3-0-becomes-first-team-to-whitewash-india-in-india-772907">New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India</a></strong></p>

<p>"Losing a series, a Test match, is never easy... something that is not easily digestible. We didn't play our best cricket, New Zealand played better throughout the series,” Rohit said after the series loss to New Zealand.</p>

<p>“There were a lot of mistakes we did. The first two Tests we did not put enough runs in the first innings. This game we got the 30 runs [28] lead, and the target was chaseable. We failed as a unit,” he continued.</p>

<h2>Youngsters shone for India</h2>

<p>Although the biggies were far from convincing, several youngsters did the job for India, including a Test great in making Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Washington Sundar and India’s new number three in Tests, Shubman Gill. While Pant impressed with the bat throughout, scoring 261 runs across six outings, Sundar’s handy contribution with the ball in hand impressed everyone.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Gill played a handy knock of 90 in the first innings in Mumbai, cementing his place as Team India’s new number three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Pant, Gill, and Washington showed how to bat on those surfaces. You have to be proactive, the last three or four years, we have been playing on pitches like that. This was an unfortunate series where we tried certain things that did not come off. I was not at my best as captain in leading the team as well as with the bat. Collectively, as a unit, we failed to perform,” the Indian captain noted.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the captain was aware of not justifying his role as a batter and the captain in this series.</p>

<p>“But this series, it didn't come off, certain things (on how to bat in such pitches), which didn't come off, and that's going to hurt. From a personal point of view, I wasn't at my best with both bat, and as a captain, that's something that'll rankle me. But, we didn't perform well collectively and that's the reason for these losses,” Rohit concluded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth.

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth. Scoring just 91 runs in three Tests, Rohit failed to provide the start India longed for in this series, resulting in them falling behind every time. However, he lamented the collective batting failure behind India losing a Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. The last time a touring team beat India in India was England in 2012 when they won the four-match series 2-1. ALSO READ: New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India "Losing a series, a Test match, is never easy... something that is not easily digestible. We didn't play our best cricket, New Zealand played better throughout the series,” Rohit said after the series loss to New Zealand. “There were a lot of mistakes we did. The first two Tests we did not put enough runs in the first innings. This game we got the 30 runs [28] lead, and the target was chaseable. We failed as a unit,” he continued. Youngsters shone for India Although the biggies were far from convincing, several youngsters did the job for India, including a Test great in making Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Washington Sundar and India’s new number three in Tests, Shubman Gill. While Pant impressed with the bat throughout, scoring 261 runs across six outings, Sundar’s handy contribution with the ball in hand impressed everyone. On the other hand, Gill played a handy knock of 90 in the first innings in Mumbai, cementing his place as Team India’s new number three. "Pant, Gill, and Washington showed how to bat on those surfaces. You have to be proactive, the last three or four years, we have been playing on pitches like that. This was an unfortunate series where we tried certain things that did not come off. I was not at my best as captain in leading the team as well as with the bat. Collectively, as a unit, we failed to perform,” the Indian captain noted. Meanwhile, the captain was aware of not justifying his role as a batter and the captain in this series. “But this series, it didn't come off, certain things (on how to bat in such pitches), which didn't come off, and that's going to hurt. From a personal point of view, I wasn't at my best with both bat, and as a captain, that's something that'll rankle me. But, we didn't perform well collectively and that's the reason for these losses,” Rohit concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I wasn’t at my best as captain and with bat’ – Rohit Sharma takes responsibility for series whitewash to NZ

<p>India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three. While Rohit got out miscuing the pull shot off Matt Henry, caught at mid-wicket by Glenn Phillips on 11, Ajaz Patel had Kohli’s number on just one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rishabh Pant completed a remarkable fifty despite wickets tumbling at the other end, with India’s scorecard reading 92/6 at lunch on day three.</p>

<p>India needs 55 runs to win with four wickets remaining.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-allegations-rock-india-a-as-umpires-warn-ishan-kishan-for-showing-dissent-772861">Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, departed on a single-digit score (5), trapped in the front of Phillips. Patel then accounted for India's first-inning hero, Shubman Gill, cleaning his off stump on one. For the nth time in his career, Gill got out similarly, with Ajaz’s delivery going straight with the arm and knocking his off-stump.</p>

<p>Patel, who picked a five-for in the first innings at Wankhede this time - where he bagged ten wickets in an inning the last time they played, removed Sarfaraz Khan on one to put India’s back against the wall. The left-arm orthodox also removed Sarfaraz in the first inning, with India’s domestic giant looking clueless against the turning ball.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Rishabh Pant’s counterattack and a 42-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja have kept India alive in this run-chase.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐮𝐩 💪<br />
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Watch the 3rd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> Test as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> chase victory, LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ColorsCineplex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColorsCineplex</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPBNUJf5Y7">pic.twitter.com/NPBNUJf5Y7</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1852941860404142139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Jadeja stars with the ball in the hand</h2>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja looked off-colour for most of this series; however, he upped his game during the final Test in Mumbai, returning with ten wickets in the match – five in each innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After returning with five for 65 in the first innings with New Zealand getting all out on 235, Jadeja picked as many wickets in the second, accounting for NZ’s final wicket on day three on the second last ball of his first over.</p>

<p>With the Kiwis getting all out on 174, India needed a target of 147 to win the match and save themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.</p>


India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three.

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three. While Rohit got out miscuing the pull shot off Matt Henry, caught at mid-wicket by Glenn Phillips on 11, Ajaz Patel had Kohli’s number on just one. Rishabh Pant completed a remarkable fifty despite wickets tumbling at the other end, with India’s scorecard reading 92/6 at lunch on day three. India needs 55 runs to win with four wickets remaining. ALSO READ: Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent Meanwhile, Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, departed on a single-digit score (5), trapped in the front of Phillips. Patel then accounted for India's first-inning hero, Shubman Gill, cleaning his off stump on one. For the nth time in his career, Gill got out similarly, with Ajaz’s delivery going straight with the arm and knocking his off-stump. Patel, who picked a five-for in the first innings at Wankhede this time - where he bagged ten wickets in an inning the last time they played, removed Sarfaraz Khan on one to put India’s back against the wall. The left-arm orthodox also removed Sarfaraz in the first inning, with India’s domestic giant looking clueless against the turning ball. However, Rishabh Pant’s counterattack and a 42-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja have kept India alive in this run-chase. 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐮𝐩 💪 Watch the 3rd #INDvNZ Test as #TeamIndia chase victory, LIVE on #JioCinema, #Sports18 and #ColorsCineplex 👈#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/NPBNUJf5Y7 — JioCinema (@JioCinema) November 3, 2024 × Jadeja stars with the ball in the hand Ravindra Jadeja looked off-colour for most of this series; however, he upped his game during the final Test in Mumbai, returning with ten wickets in the match – five in each innings. After returning with five for 65 in the first innings with New Zealand getting all out on 235, Jadeja picked as many wickets in the second, accounting for NZ’s final wicket on day three on the second last ball of his first over. With the Kiwis getting all out on 174, India needed a target of 147 to win the match and save themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.

IND vs NZ 2024, 3rd Test, Day 3: Rishabh Pant’s counterattack keeps India alive in Mumbai run chase

<p>Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) decision to retain Virat Kohli ahead of mega auction. The former batter also raised concerns about the proposition of Kohli being named as skipper in the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I just have one question from the fans. If instead of Virat Kohli, there was someone else. You just remove Virat Kohli from your mind, and just look at his performance in the IPL, his batting and captaincy performance. Then you think whether it is the right decision to make him the captain," Manjrekar said while talking on Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-likely-to-skip-ipl-2025-to-prioritise-test-season-reports-772706">Ben Stokes likely to skip IPL 2025 to prioritise Test season – Reports</a></p>

<p>"Just because he is Virat Kohli, 95 per cent fans want him to be the captain. But if you just go by his performances, it is not that impressive. This is my problem, I don't want to get carried away, because of hero worship, I don't want to get away from the cricket truth," he added.</p>

<p>RCB retained Kohli along with pacer Yash Dayal and batter Rajat Patidar, leaving them three right-to-match (RTM) options at the upcoming auction. They, however, let go some big names from the squad namely skipper Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green and Mohammed Siraj.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Kohli has been with RCB since the inaugural session of 2008 and has played 252 matches with them. In this duration he has scored 8004 runs in the league - the most for any batter - at an average of 38.65 and a strike rate of almost 132. He has also managed eight hundreds and 55 fifties with a best of 113 not out.</p>

<p>Kohli has also captained the side in 143 matches - the third most in the IPL - winning 66 and losing 70 of them. He, however, never managed to help RCB win the title.</p>


Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) decision to retain Virat Kohli ahead of mega auction.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) decision to retain Virat Kohli ahead of mega auction. The former batter also raised concerns about the proposition of Kohli being named as skipper in the upcoming IPL season. "I just have one question from the fans. If instead of Virat Kohli, there was someone else. You just remove Virat Kohli from your mind, and just look at his performance in the IPL, his batting and captaincy performance. Then you think whether it is the right decision to make him the captain," Manjrekar said while talking on Star Sports. Also Read: Ben Stokes likely to skip IPL 2025 to prioritise Test season – Reports "Just because he is Virat Kohli, 95 per cent fans want him to be the captain. But if you just go by his performances, it is not that impressive. This is my problem, I don't want to get carried away, because of hero worship, I don't want to get away from the cricket truth," he added. RCB retained Kohli along with pacer Yash Dayal and batter Rajat Patidar, leaving them three right-to-match (RTM) options at the upcoming auction. They, however, let go some big names from the squad namely skipper Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green and Mohammed Siraj. It is to be noted that Kohli has been with RCB since the inaugural session of 2008 and has played 252 matches with them. In this duration he has scored 8004 runs in the league - the most for any batter - at an average of 38.65 and a strike rate of almost 132. He has also managed eight hundreds and 55 fifties with a best of 113 not out. Kohli has also captained the side in 143 matches - the third most in the IPL - winning 66 and losing 70 of them. He, however, never managed to help RCB win the title.

'Because of hero worship...,' Former India player on RCB retaining Virat Kohli ahead of IPL mega auction

<p>Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has decided on which players it will be retaining ahead of the mega auction. The names of the players, however, are hidden in a crossword puzzle for the fans to guess.</p>

<p>In a post shared on social media, RCB wrote: "The truth is not always what you see. It is about what you actually want to see."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-rishabh-pant-former-aussie-skipper-tim-paine-says-this-batter-helped-india-win-on-last-tour-772060">Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour</a></p>

<p>"Our retentions are shrouded in mystery, waiting for you to uncover. Can you decipher the clues and crack the code?," it further read along with a crossword puzzle. Have a crack at deciphering the names below:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗲𝗲. 𝗜𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗲. 👀<br />
<br />
Sneak peek alert! 🚨<br />
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Our retentions are shrouded in mystery, waiting for you to uncover. Can you decipher the clues and crack the… <a href="https://t.co/lLu5MZ3UI8">pic.twitter.com/lLu5MZ3UI8</a></p>
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1851619342510968844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Among the notable names which are there in the puzzle are Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Faf du Plessis, Anuj Rawat, Cameron Green, Rajat Patidar, Will Jacks and Yash Dayal.</p>

<p>A franchise, however, can only retain a maximum of six players with no right-to-match (RTM) option left. All 10 teams have a total of six retention and RTM options, which they can use in combination as well. For example, if a team retains only one player, then it'll have five RTM options at the auction and vice versa.</p>

<p>If one were to guess, Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj look sure shot names to be retained by RCB ahead of the October 31 deadline.</p>

<p><strong>CSK all set to retain MS Dhoni</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to retain MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana.</p>

<p>With five retentions, they'll be left with one right-to-match (RTM) option at the upcoming mega auction. The amount at which CSK will retain players is not out yet but they are expected to spend around INR 65 crore out of the total budget of INR 120 crore.</p>


Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has decided on which players it will be retaining ahead of the mega auction. The names of the players, however, are hidden in a crossword puzzle for the fans to guess.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has decided on which players it will be retaining ahead of the mega auction. The names of the players, however, are hidden in a crossword puzzle for the fans to guess. In a post shared on social media, RCB wrote: "The truth is not always what you see. It is about what you actually want to see." Also Read: Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour "Our retentions are shrouded in mystery, waiting for you to uncover. Can you decipher the clues and crack the code?," it further read along with a crossword puzzle. Have a crack at deciphering the names below: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗲𝗲. 𝗜𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗲. 👀 Sneak peek alert! 🚨 Our retentions are shrouded in mystery, waiting for you to uncover. Can you decipher the clues and crack the… pic.twitter.com/lLu5MZ3UI8 — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) October 30, 2024 × Among the notable names which are there in the puzzle are Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Faf du Plessis, Anuj Rawat, Cameron Green, Rajat Patidar, Will Jacks and Yash Dayal. A franchise, however, can only retain a maximum of six players with no right-to-match (RTM) option left. All 10 teams have a total of six retention and RTM options, which they can use in combination as well. For example, if a team retains only one player, then it'll have five RTM options at the auction and vice versa. If one were to guess, Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj look sure shot names to be retained by RCB ahead of the October 31 deadline. CSK all set to retain MS Dhoni Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to retain MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana. With five retentions, they'll be left with one right-to-match (RTM) option at the upcoming mega auction. The amount at which CSK will retain players is not out yet but they are expected to spend around INR 65 crore out of the total budget of INR 120 crore.

RCB shares cryptic puzzle to reveal names of retained players ahead of IPL mega auction

<p>Australia batter Glenn Maxwell has revealed that India batter and his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate Virat Kohli had blocked him on social media for mocking. The incident Maxwell mentioned was from the 2017 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India.</p>

<p>"When I knew that I was going to RCB, Virat was the first guy to message me and welcome me to the team. When I turned up for the pre-IPL training camp, we obviously got chatting and spent a fair bit of time training together as you do. So I go to his social media, follow him. Didn't even think about it before that. Never really crossed my mind. I was like 'I can't find him'," Maxwell shared on the LiSTNR Sport podcast.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/whoever-raises-their-voice-ex-pakistan-cricketer-on-gary-kirsten-stepping-down-as-white-ball-coach-771735">'Whoever raises their voice...,' Ex-Pakistan cricketer on Gary Kirsten stepping down as white-ball coach</a></p>

<p>Maxwell, during one of the Tests, had clutched his shoulder while fielding, imitating Virat Kohli who had done the same earlier during India's&nbsp;fielding. The duo, however, now shares a great bond after Maxwell joined RCB in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm sure he's on social media somewhere so I didn't think anything of it. Not really that maybe he wasn't savvy with Instagram. Didn't really understand why he wasn't coming up and then someone mentioned that he might have blocked you. That is the only way you're not able to find him. I was like surely not," he added.</p>

<p>"Then I went and asked him 'Have you blocked me on Instagram?' And he was like, 'Yeah probably. It was when you mocked me during that Test match. I think I got the sh*** and decided to block you. I was like 'yeah, that's fair enough'. So yeah, he ended up unblocking me, and we became great friends after that," the Aussie revealed.</p>

<p>Maxwell, before joining RCB, played for Punjab Kings (erstwhile Kings XI Punjab) where he and mentor Virender Sehwag had a fallout.</p>


Australia batter Glenn Maxwell has revealed that India batter and his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate Virat Kohli had blocked him on social media for mocking.

Australia batter Glenn Maxwell has revealed that India batter and his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate Virat Kohli had blocked him on social media for mocking. The incident Maxwell mentioned was from the 2017 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. "When I knew that I was going to RCB, Virat was the first guy to message me and welcome me to the team. When I turned up for the pre-IPL training camp, we obviously got chatting and spent a fair bit of time training together as you do. So I go to his social media, follow him. Didn't even think about it before that. Never really crossed my mind. I was like 'I can't find him'," Maxwell shared on the LiSTNR Sport podcast. Also Read: 'Whoever raises their voice...,' Ex-Pakistan cricketer on Gary Kirsten stepping down as white-ball coach Maxwell, during one of the Tests, had clutched his shoulder while fielding, imitating Virat Kohli who had done the same earlier during India's fielding. The duo, however, now shares a great bond after Maxwell joined RCB in 2021. "I'm sure he's on social media somewhere so I didn't think anything of it. Not really that maybe he wasn't savvy with Instagram. Didn't really understand why he wasn't coming up and then someone mentioned that he might have blocked you. That is the only way you're not able to find him. I was like surely not," he added. "Then I went and asked him 'Have you blocked me on Instagram?' And he was like, 'Yeah probably. It was when you mocked me during that Test match. I think I got the sh*** and decided to block you. I was like 'yeah, that's fair enough'. So yeah, he ended up unblocking me, and we became great friends after that," the Aussie revealed. Maxwell, before joining RCB, played for Punjab Kings (erstwhile Kings XI Punjab) where he and mentor Virender Sehwag had a fallout.

'Didn't really understand why...,' Glenn Maxwell reveals incident when Virat Kohli blocked him on social media

<p>Team India has hit the rock in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand after they lost the Pune Test on Saturday (Oct 27), condemning them to their first Test series defeat on home soil in 12 years. While questions have been raised on the futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma after their lack of contribution in recent series, it is tough to argue whether the Indian team is better with or without them. However, with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to start in Australia next month, it is a case of whether or not for coach Gautam Gambhir to drop the big boys.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat Kohli in numbers</strong></h2>

<p>At the time of writing, it has been 348 days since Virat last scored an international hundred for India when he played a superb 117-run knock against New Zealand in the ODI World Cup. Since then he has scored 621 international runs in 26 innings, averaging 24.84 for an innings. After the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, he has scored only two fifties for India in all formats while registering four ducks.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Virat still deserves his place in the team?</strong></h2>

<p>While the numbers don’t make a great reading for Virat in the last 12 months, he still retains the fear factor in him. While he was not at his best for India in the last 12 months, his most valuable and important knock came in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados in June. His 76-run knock was the difference-maker in India winning the World Cup, highlighting his ability to perform on a big day when required.</p>

<p>Australia are Virat’s favourite Test opponent as numbers suggest, in 44 Test innings against the Aussies he has 2042 runs, more than any other Test-playing nation. He has eight hundreds and five fifties, showing why he deserves a place on the team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/manchester-citys-rodri-wins-mens-2024-ballon-dor-as-real-madrids-vinicius-jr-settles-for-second-spot-771493">Manchester City's Rodri wins men's 2024 Ballon d'Or as Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr settles for second spot</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia also remains Virat’s happy hunting away territory with the bat, having amassed 1352 runs in 25 Test innings. He will potentially have 10 innings during the BGT to add to that impressive tally. With six hundreds Down Under in the red-ball format alone, the 35-year-old should be the first name on the team’s Playing XI.</p>

<p>Interestingly, the former India skipper has scored at least one hundred on each red-ball tour of Australia barring the last one in 2020-21. He only played in the Adelaide Test scoring 78 runs in both innings combined before jetting off for paternity leave.</p>

<p>With ruthless aggression on board and the ability to perform on the biggest stage, Virat will be Team India’s biggest weapon Down Under while the World Test Championship final qualification also remains on the agenda.</p>


Team India has hit the rock in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand after they lost the Pune Test on Saturday (Oct 27), condemning them to their first Test series defeat on home soil in 12 years.

Team India has hit the rock in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand after they lost the Pune Test on Saturday (Oct 27), condemning them to their first Test series defeat on home soil in 12 years. While questions have been raised on the futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma after their lack of contribution in recent series, it is tough to argue whether the Indian team is better with or without them. However, with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to start in Australia next month, it is a case of whether or not for coach Gautam Gambhir to drop the big boys. Virat Kohli in numbers At the time of writing, it has been 348 days since Virat last scored an international hundred for India when he played a superb 117-run knock against New Zealand in the ODI World Cup. Since then he has scored 621 international runs in 26 innings, averaging 24.84 for an innings. After the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, he has scored only two fifties for India in all formats while registering four ducks. Why Virat still deserves his place in the team? While the numbers don’t make a great reading for Virat in the last 12 months, he still retains the fear factor in him. While he was not at his best for India in the last 12 months, his most valuable and important knock came in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados in June. His 76-run knock was the difference-maker in India winning the World Cup, highlighting his ability to perform on a big day when required. Australia are Virat’s favourite Test opponent as numbers suggest, in 44 Test innings against the Aussies he has 2042 runs, more than any other Test-playing nation. He has eight hundreds and five fifties, showing why he deserves a place on the team. ALSO READ | Manchester City's Rodri wins men's 2024 Ballon d'Or as Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr settles for second spot Australia also remains Virat’s happy hunting away territory with the bat, having amassed 1352 runs in 25 Test innings. He will potentially have 10 innings during the BGT to add to that impressive tally. With six hundreds Down Under in the red-ball format alone, the 35-year-old should be the first name on the team’s Playing XI. Interestingly, the former India skipper has scored at least one hundred on each red-ball tour of Australia barring the last one in 2020-21. He only played in the Adelaide Test scoring 78 runs in both innings combined before jetting off for paternity leave. With ruthless aggression on board and the ability to perform on the biggest stage, Virat will be Team India’s biggest weapon Down Under while the World Test Championship final qualification also remains on the agenda.

Why Team India should stick to Virat Kohli despite failure in recent games?

India's 12-year winning streak at home in test cricket came to an end in stunning fashion against New Zealand. Is it time for India to look beyond captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?

Do India Need To Hit The Reset Button In Tests?

<p>Former India opener Aakash Chopra says Virat Kohli's form is a cause of concern for the&nbsp;team as his contribution is more important than skipper Rohit Sharma. The comments come after Kohli's dismal performance in the ongoing home Test series against New Zealand where he even got out on a full toss.</p>

<p>"It's always going to be a concern if Virat Kohli doesn't score runs or scores less runs because he is a mighty player and you make your entire game plan around Virat Kohli. This team requires his form and contribution even more because Rohit (Sharma) is at the top and Kohli is in the middle, the rest around them are all kids," Chopra said on while talking to his YouTube channel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/theyll-lack-a-australia-head-coach-on-mohammed-shami-missing-from-indias-border-gavaskar-trophy-squad-771122">'They'll lack a...,' Australia head coach on Mohammed Shami missing from India's Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad</a></p>

<p>The former India batter also explained that Kohli being in the middle is the calming influence as he takes the game forward by batting long periods of time.</p>

<p>"All kids play big shots, they play in their own way, my way or the highway. In such a scenario, Virat Kohli not only scoring big runs but also batting two to two-and-a-half sessions will be the calming influence. He will drive the game and things can revolve around him. He will want to be the pivot and it will be a problem if he doesn't become that," Chopra said.</p>

<p>India would want their best batter to hit form as soon as possible as their two losses against New Zealand have left them in crunch to make it to their third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) Final.</p>

<p>India have six Tests remaining in the cycle now and must win at least four of them to guarantee a place in the WTC Final. After the third and final Test against New Zealand, they travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy which starts November 22.</p>


Former India opener Aakash Chopra says Virat Kohli's form is a cause of concern for the team as his contribution is more important than skipper Rohit Sharma. The comments come after Kohli's dismal performance in the ongoing home Test series against New Zealand where he even got out on a full toss.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra says Virat Kohli's form is a cause of concern for the team as his contribution is more important than skipper Rohit Sharma. The comments come after Kohli's dismal performance in the ongoing home Test series against New Zealand where he even got out on a full toss. "It's always going to be a concern if Virat Kohli doesn't score runs or scores less runs because he is a mighty player and you make your entire game plan around Virat Kohli. This team requires his form and contribution even more because Rohit (Sharma) is at the top and Kohli is in the middle, the rest around them are all kids," Chopra said on while talking to his YouTube channel. Also Read: 'They'll lack a...,' Australia head coach on Mohammed Shami missing from India's Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad The former India batter also explained that Kohli being in the middle is the calming influence as he takes the game forward by batting long periods of time. "All kids play big shots, they play in their own way, my way or the highway. In such a scenario, Virat Kohli not only scoring big runs but also batting two to two-and-a-half sessions will be the calming influence. He will drive the game and things can revolve around him. He will want to be the pivot and it will be a problem if he doesn't become that," Chopra said. India would want their best batter to hit form as soon as possible as their two losses against New Zealand have left them in crunch to make it to their third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India have six Tests remaining in the cycle now and must win at least four of them to guarantee a place in the WTC Final. After the third and final Test against New Zealand, they travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy which starts November 22.

'A problem if he doesn't...,' Former India batter Aakash Chopra on Virat Kohli's form ahead of BGT

<p>Virat Kohli is a batting great, but even the best of the best have some weaknesses. Although his itchiness to play the fourth-stump line has always been a prominent advantage point for the opposition, Virat’s struggle against spin is the newest addition to the list. Against New Zealand during the ongoing second Test in Pune, Virat played a very ‘un-Kohli’ kind of shot against Mitchell Santner, resulting in yet another single-digit score in this series.</p>

<p>Coming onto bat at his usual number four position, Kohli got some bangers early on, with the orthodox left-arm spinner looking dangerous. Just eight balls into his first innings, Kohli tried sweeping a flighted delivery, missing it altogether and getting bowled on just one run.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-2nd-test-day-2-new-zealand-rock-india-with-six-wickets-inside-first-session-770598">IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test, Day 2: New Zealand rock India with six wickets inside first session</a></strong></p>

<p>The look on his face told the entire story, and so did the silence in Pune stadium. Rather than looking stunned by the quality of delivery, which often leaves him startled, the batting great looked disappointed with his shot selection.</p>

<p>His dismissal, however, sparked a collapse for the Indian Team, which got all out on 156, with Santner returning with his best Test figures of seven for 53. Though Jadeja tried saving the sinking ship with his counterattack cameo, New Zealand’s bowling was too good for India, who, for the nth time, seemed to fall into their trap once again.</p>

<h2>Watch Virat Kohli’s dismissal –</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli’s dismissal for just 1 run has left fans in shock. The stadium falls silent as hopes dim.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tapmad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tapmad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DontStopStreaming?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DontStopStreaming</a> <a href="https://t.co/nJH5mLEGD9">pic.twitter.com/nJH5mLEGD9</a></p>
— DHANA SHREYA (@dhanasgarmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/dhanasgarmy/status/1849692383824531849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>His wicket also unearthed a staggering stat - this was Virat’s 21st dismissal to spin out of 26 in Asia since 2021. Out of these 21 dismissals, ten have been to the left-arm spinners, making him the walking wicket for the lefties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fans took to social media, expressing their displeasure at watching Virat getting dismissed in such a manner. While some couldn’t believe what Virat did out there, the former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar called this his ‘worst shot of the career’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Oh dear! Virat will know himself that he has just played the worst shot of his career to get out. Got to feel for him…coz as always he came out with solid &amp; honest intent,” Manjrekar posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh dear! Virat will know himself that he has just played the worst shot of his career to get out. Got to feel for him…coz as always he came out with solid &amp; honest intent.</p>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1849680639668244690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, New Zealand leads the three-match series 1-0.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Virat Kohli is a batting great, but even the best of the best have some weaknesses. Although his itchiness to play the fourth-stump line has always been a prominent advantage point for the opposition, Virat’s struggle against spin is the newest addition to the list.

Virat Kohli is a batting great, but even the best of the best have some weaknesses. Although his itchiness to play the fourth-stump line has always been a prominent advantage point for the opposition, Virat’s struggle against spin is the newest addition to the list. Against New Zealand during the ongoing second Test in Pune, Virat played a very ‘un-Kohli’ kind of shot against Mitchell Santner, resulting in yet another single-digit score in this series. Coming onto bat at his usual number four position, Kohli got some bangers early on, with the orthodox left-arm spinner looking dangerous. Just eight balls into his first innings, Kohli tried sweeping a flighted delivery, missing it altogether and getting bowled on just one run. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test, Day 2: New Zealand rock India with six wickets inside first session The look on his face told the entire story, and so did the silence in Pune stadium. Rather than looking stunned by the quality of delivery, which often leaves him startled, the batting great looked disappointed with his shot selection. His dismissal, however, sparked a collapse for the Indian Team, which got all out on 156, with Santner returning with his best Test figures of seven for 53. Though Jadeja tried saving the sinking ship with his counterattack cameo, New Zealand’s bowling was too good for India, who, for the nth time, seemed to fall into their trap once again. Watch Virat Kohli’s dismissal – Virat Kohli’s dismissal for just 1 run has left fans in shock. The stadium falls silent as hopes dim.#INDvNZ #tapmad #DontStopStreaming pic.twitter.com/nJH5mLEGD9 — DHANA SHREYA (@dhanasgarmy) October 25, 2024 × His wicket also unearthed a staggering stat - this was Virat’s 21st dismissal to spin out of 26 in Asia since 2021. Out of these 21 dismissals, ten have been to the left-arm spinners, making him the walking wicket for the lefties. The fans took to social media, expressing their displeasure at watching Virat getting dismissed in such a manner. While some couldn’t believe what Virat did out there, the former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar called this his ‘worst shot of the career’. “Oh dear! Virat will know himself that he has just played the worst shot of his career to get out. Got to feel for him…coz as always he came out with solid & honest intent,” Manjrekar posted on X. Oh dear! Virat will know himself that he has just played the worst shot of his career to get out. Got to feel for him…coz as always he came out with solid & honest intent. — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 25, 2024 × Meanwhile, New Zealand leads the three-match series 1-0. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: Virat’s ‘un-Kohli’ shot draws flak as batting great’s struggle against spin continues

<p>New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner picked four wickets, including star batter Virat Kohli, to rock India in the first session of day two of the second Test in Pune. The hosts began proceedings on day two on 16 for one, with their scorecard at lunch reading 107 for seven. All-rounder Glenn Phillips bagged the remaining two wickets in the session by removing two lefties - Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant.</p>

<p>India began cautiously, with the returning Shubman Gill and Jaiswal doing their best to stay on the crease. Although both struck a couple of boundaries, including Gill’s coming-down-the-track six off Tim Southee, Santner broke the camel’s back with an incredible spell.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shubman Gill steps out, and boom!<br />
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Catch LIVE action from the 2nd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> Test on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ColorsCineplex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColorsCineplex</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/SIhkHgqlYf">pic.twitter.com/SIhkHgqlYf</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1849671555481206958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Included for the injured Matt Henry for this Test, Santner first made inroads with a handy contribution from the bat late on day one, hitting a gritty 33, he dented India’s morale with four wickets inside the first session the next day. The left-arm orthodox first removed Gill, trapped in the front on 30, then accounted for Kohli, who got deceived in a flight, getting bowled while playing an unlike-Kohli shot on just one.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-522-to-53-all-out-western-australia-lose-8-wickets-for-1-run-in-bizarre-collapse-in-one-day-cup-770563">From 52/2 to 53 all out! Western Australia lose 8 wickets for 1 run in BIZARRE collapse in One-Day Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>With two left-handers on the crease, Captain Latham introduced right-arm spinner Phillips. In no time, he got rid of Jaiswal, caught in the first slip on 30, later dismissing dangerous Pant, bowled on 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The previous game's hero, Sarfaraz Khan, couldn’t repeat his heroics here, as he got out similarly as in the first game, with Santner picking his wicket on 11. The left-arm spinner dismissed Ravichandran Ashwin next on four, trapped in the front, to reduce India to 103 for seven.</p>

<p>Two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and India’s first-inning hero Washington Sundar, are at the crease, with the hosts trailing by 152 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, New Zealand won the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, taking a one-nil lead in this three-match series.&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner picked four wickets, including star batter Virat Kohli, to rock India in the first session of day two of the second Test in Pune.

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner picked four wickets, including star batter Virat Kohli, to rock India in the first session of day two of the second Test in Pune. The hosts began proceedings on day two on 16 for one, with their scorecard at lunch reading 107 for seven. All-rounder Glenn Phillips bagged the remaining two wickets in the session by removing two lefties - Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant. India began cautiously, with the returning Shubman Gill and Jaiswal doing their best to stay on the crease. Although both struck a couple of boundaries, including Gill’s coming-down-the-track six off Tim Southee, Santner broke the camel’s back with an incredible spell. Shubman Gill steps out, and boom! Catch LIVE action from the 2nd #INDvNZ Test on #JioCinema, #Sports18 and #ColorsCineplex 👈#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/SIhkHgqlYf — JioCinema (@JioCinema) October 25, 2024 × Included for the injured Matt Henry for this Test, Santner first made inroads with a handy contribution from the bat late on day one, hitting a gritty 33, he dented India’s morale with four wickets inside the first session the next day. The left-arm orthodox first removed Gill, trapped in the front on 30, then accounted for Kohli, who got deceived in a flight, getting bowled while playing an unlike-Kohli shot on just one. ALSO READ: From 52/2 to 53 all out! Western Australia lose 8 wickets for 1 run in BIZARRE collapse in One-Day Cup With two left-handers on the crease, Captain Latham introduced right-arm spinner Phillips. In no time, he got rid of Jaiswal, caught in the first slip on 30, later dismissing dangerous Pant, bowled on 18. The previous game's hero, Sarfaraz Khan, couldn’t repeat his heroics here, as he got out similarly as in the first game, with Santner picking his wicket on 11. The left-arm spinner dismissed Ravichandran Ashwin next on four, trapped in the front, to reduce India to 103 for seven. Two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and India’s first-inning hero Washington Sundar, are at the crease, with the hosts trailing by 152 runs. Meanwhile, New Zealand won the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, taking a one-nil lead in this three-match series.

IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test, Day 2: New Zealand rock India with six wickets inside first session

<p>As Rohit Sharma-led India gear up for the second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand, in Pune, Hitman won hearts with his gesture for a special fan. The fan was patiently waiting for India's practice session to end, at the MCA Stadium in Pune,&nbsp;and caught hold of Rohit as he was entering the Indian dressing room. On seeing the veteran batter, the female fan asked for an autograph. As Rohit obliged, she also made a special request to convey Virat Kohli that his 'biggest fan' came here. To this, Rohit's response won hearts as the video went viral on social media platforms.</p>

<p>During their brief interaction, the fan said as Rohit was giving his autograph, "Tell him (Kohli) his biggest fan came here." To this, the star batter smiled and assured her that the message would reach Virat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/you-spent-10-minutes-with-a-player-who-is-not-playing-samson-recalls-rohits-gesture-after-t20-wc-final-snub-769699">You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here is the viral video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma's conversation with a fangirl today.😄💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohithSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohithSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/afMBdrGZpV">pic.twitter.com/afMBdrGZpV</a></p>
— virat_kohli_18_club (@KohliSensation) <a href="https://twitter.com/KohliSensation/status/1848754254183317627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Talking about the India-NZ Test series, Rohit-led hosts lost the three-match Test series opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru by eight wickets. After a washed out opening day, India opted to bat first -- in challenging conditions -- and got dismissed for 46 (their lowest-ever score&nbsp;on home soil) courtesy of pacer Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis posted 402 and, thus, took a mammoth 356-run lead, riding on Rachin Ravindra's 134, Devon Conway's 91 and Tim Southee's 65.</p>

<p>While India fought back and posted 462, thanks to Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99, they only set a 107-run target for the visitors, who chased it down on the final day on Sunday (Oct 20) to take a 1-0 lead.</p>

<p>The second Test starts on Oct 24 (Thursday) with the home side eager to settle scores and keep the series alive.</p>


As Rohit Sharma-led India gear up for the second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand, in Pune, Hitman won hearts with his gesture for a special fan. The fan was patiently waiting for India's practice session to end, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, and caught hold of Rohit as he was entering the Indian dressing room.

As Rohit Sharma-led India gear up for the second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand, in Pune, Hitman won hearts with his gesture for a special fan. The fan was patiently waiting for India's practice session to end, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, and caught hold of Rohit as he was entering the Indian dressing room. On seeing the veteran batter, the female fan asked for an autograph. As Rohit obliged, she also made a special request to convey Virat Kohli that his 'biggest fan' came here. To this, Rohit's response won hearts as the video went viral on social media platforms. During their brief interaction, the fan said as Rohit was giving his autograph, "Tell him (Kohli) his biggest fan came here." To this, the star batter smiled and assured her that the message would reach Virat. Also read: You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub Here is the viral video: Rohit Sharma's conversation with a fangirl today.😄💙#RohithSharma #ViratKohli #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/afMBdrGZpV — virat_kohli_18_club (@KohliSensation) October 22, 2024 × Talking about the India-NZ Test series, Rohit-led hosts lost the three-match Test series opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru by eight wickets. After a washed out opening day, India opted to bat first -- in challenging conditions -- and got dismissed for 46 (their lowest-ever score on home soil) courtesy of pacer Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis posted 402 and, thus, took a mammoth 356-run lead, riding on Rachin Ravindra's 134, Devon Conway's 91 and Tim Southee's 65. While India fought back and posted 462, thanks to Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99, they only set a 107-run target for the visitors, who chased it down on the final day on Sunday (Oct 20) to take a 1-0 lead. The second Test starts on Oct 24 (Thursday) with the home side eager to settle scores and keep the series alive.

Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: 'I'll tell Virat,' Rohit obliges to fan's SPECIAL request while signing autograph - Watch

<p>Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Virat Kohli in the latest ICC Test batters ranking after a superb show in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last week. Pant&nbsp;scored 99 in the second innings, which has propelled him to the sixth spot. The rise also means former skipper Virat Kohli dropped to eighth spot. In the bowler’s ranking, Jasprit Bumrah continues to lead the way by keeping his spot intact.</p>

<h2><strong>Pant on the rise</strong></h2>

<p>Pant was India’s highest scorer in India’s otherwise horror first innings with 20 runs as Rohit and Co got bowled out for 46. However, he made amends in the second innings with a 99-run knock before getting out. He was unfortunate to miss out on the ton against the Kiwis. Pant also scored a ton against Bangladesh last month in the Chennai Test since having returned to the format after 21 months out due to injury.</p>

<p>Pant was also injured during the Bengaluru Test but has been confirmed fit by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and is available for the second Test in Pune. It will come as a big boost for the Indian team as they look to return to parity in the three-match Test series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-penultimate-contest-in-pune-769950">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand penultimate contest in Pune</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Bumrah continues to dominate with the ball</strong></h2>

<p>In the bowlers ranking, Jasprit Bumrah leads the way and sits at the top after a decent show with the ball against the Kiwis. Three Indian bowlers are in the top 10 of the rankings as Ravichandran Ashwin (second) and Ravindra Jadeja (sixth) make the cut. Ashwin and Bumrah will have a tight race for the top spot next week with India hosting New Zealand in the second Test in Pune.</p>

<p>With India trailing 0-1, the onus will be on the hosts to win the match and level the series.</p>


Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Virat Kohli in the latest ICC Test batters ranking after a superb show in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last week.

Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Virat Kohli in the latest ICC Test batters ranking after a superb show in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last week. Pant scored 99 in the second innings, which has propelled him to the sixth spot. The rise also means former skipper Virat Kohli dropped to eighth spot. In the bowler’s ranking, Jasprit Bumrah continues to lead the way by keeping his spot intact. Pant on the rise Pant was India’s highest scorer in India’s otherwise horror first innings with 20 runs as Rohit and Co got bowled out for 46. However, he made amends in the second innings with a 99-run knock before getting out. He was unfortunate to miss out on the ton against the Kiwis. Pant also scored a ton against Bangladesh last month in the Chennai Test since having returned to the format after 21 months out due to injury. Pant was also injured during the Bengaluru Test but has been confirmed fit by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and is available for the second Test in Pune. It will come as a big boost for the Indian team as they look to return to parity in the three-match Test series. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand penultimate contest in Pune Bumrah continues to dominate with the ball In the bowlers ranking, Jasprit Bumrah leads the way and sits at the top after a decent show with the ball against the Kiwis. Three Indian bowlers are in the top 10 of the rankings as Ravichandran Ashwin (second) and Ravindra Jadeja (sixth) make the cut. Ashwin and Bumrah will have a tight race for the top spot next week with India hosting New Zealand in the second Test in Pune. With India trailing 0-1, the onus will be on the hosts to win the match and level the series.

ICC Rankings: Rishabh Pant leapfrogs Virat Kohli in Test batters; Bumrah continues dominance with ball

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are doing what they enjoy the most. The couple are currently in India and on Sunday (Oct 20), the couple were seen enjoying the kirtan (devotional singing) of Grammy-winner vocalist Krishna Das.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are doing what they enjoy the most. The couple are currently in India and on Sunday (Oct 20), the couple were seen enjoying the kirtan (devotional singing) of Grammy-winner vocalist Krishna Das. Virat and Anushka's rare public spotting came on the occasion of Karwa Chauth, a Hindu festival. Anushka and Virat at Krishna Das' kirtan On Sunday, Virat and Anushka were spotted having fun at the Krishna Das's kirtan. For the unversed, Das, born Jeffrey Kagel, is an American vocalist and is well-known for singing traditional kirtans with a blend of modern tunes. Also read: Jennifer Lawrence expecting second child with husband Cooke Maroney In several viral videos, Anushka and Virat can be seen enjoying Das' performance as they get blended into the musical environment. For the public outing, the couple were dressed casually. The actress was simply dressed in a white co-ord set with rent prints. She kept her hair open without any makeup. Meanwhile, Viral was wearing a light green sweatshirt with loose pants and a maroon cap. Watch the viral clips here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chinu (@chinuediz) × The organisers shared a few clips of Anushka and Virat from the last night and wrote, ''Virat and Anushka joined us at Krishna Das Live in Mumbai today, seeking blessings and connecting with the serene atmosphere. Their presence added to the collective devotion, making the gathering even more special.'' Also read: Director Remo D'Souza breaks silence on Rs 11.96 crore cheating allegations: It's disheartening View this post on Instagram A post shared by Capital Group (@capitalgroupindia) × This is not the first time when Virat and Anushka have been spotted at a kirtan. In July, the power couple were seen enjoying the kirtan in London. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arun Rajpoot (@the_arun_rajpoot_18) × On the work front, Anushka has been away from the silver screen for a time now. She was last seen in the 2018 movie Zero. However, the project that she has in her works is Chakda Xpress, a biopic based on the life of cricketer Jhulan Goswami. There is no new update on the project. Meanwhile, Anushka is enjoying her family life with her daughter Vamika and son Akaay.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli attend Krishna Das' kirtan in Mumbai : Watch

<p>Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand was a horrid day for the hosts, with Rohit Sharma-led team bundling out for 46 (their lowest-score at home) after opting to bat first in Bengaluru. Virat Kohli, at No. 3, departed for 0 as his form continues to pose questions. Despite his forgettable outing, Kohli registered a massive record. He is featuring in his 536th international game and, hence, went past former captain MS Dhoni (535) to become India's second-most capped player. The list is led by Sachin Tendulkar (with 664 games).</p>

<h2><strong>Most internationals for India</strong></h2>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar - 664 games<br />
<strong>Virat Kohli - 536 games</strong><br />
MS Dhoni - 535 games<br />
Rahul Dravid - 504 games<br />
Rohit Sharma - 486 games</p>

<p>Kohli has had a remarkable run at the international level since his debut in 2008. In 116 Tests, 295 ODIs and 125 T20Is, he has amassed 27,041 international runs so far.</p>

<p>Among the active players, Kohli is followed by Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja,&nbsp;playing their 486th and 346th&nbsp;game respectively.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-1st-test-rohit-sharma-admits-misjudging-bengaluru-pitch-after-horror-show-with-bat-on-day-2-768447">IND v NZ 1st Test: Rohit Sharma admits ‘misjudging’ Bengaluru pitch after horror show with bat on day 2</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the Bengaluru Test, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Day 1 was washed out but Day 2 proved to be a nightmare for India. Despite winning the toss in overcast conditions, India opted to bat first and paid the price by being all-out for 46, with five ducks. At stumps, NZ are 180 for 3, leading by 134 runs, following opener Devon Conway's 91.</p>

<p>Day 3, on Friday (Oct 18), will prove to be a litmus test for India as they trail behind. For NZ, the Tom Latham-led side will look to extend their lead and push India towards an innings defeat.</p>


Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand was a horrid day for the hosts, with Rohit Sharma-led team bundling out for 46 (their lowest-score at home) after opting to bat first in Bengaluru.

Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand was a horrid day for the hosts, with Rohit Sharma-led team bundling out for 46 (their lowest-score at home) after opting to bat first in Bengaluru. Virat Kohli, at No. 3, departed for 0 as his form continues to pose questions. Despite his forgettable outing, Kohli registered a massive record. He is featuring in his 536th international game and, hence, went past former captain MS Dhoni (535) to become India's second-most capped player. The list is led by Sachin Tendulkar (with 664 games). Most internationals for India Sachin Tendulkar - 664 games Virat Kohli - 536 games MS Dhoni - 535 games Rahul Dravid - 504 games Rohit Sharma - 486 games Kohli has had a remarkable run at the international level since his debut in 2008. In 116 Tests, 295 ODIs and 125 T20Is, he has amassed 27,041 international runs so far. Among the active players, Kohli is followed by Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, playing their 486th and 346th game respectively. Also read: IND v NZ 1st Test: Rohit Sharma admits ‘misjudging’ Bengaluru pitch after horror show with bat on day 2 Talking about the Bengaluru Test, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Day 1 was washed out but Day 2 proved to be a nightmare for India. Despite winning the toss in overcast conditions, India opted to bat first and paid the price by being all-out for 46, with five ducks. At stumps, NZ are 180 for 3, leading by 134 runs, following opener Devon Conway's 91. Day 3, on Friday (Oct 18), will prove to be a litmus test for India as they trail behind. For NZ, the Tom Latham-led side will look to extend their lead and push India towards an innings defeat.

Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Virat Kohli surpasses MS Dhoni to become India's second-most-capped player

<p>The Indian team was left in sixes and sevens at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing Bengaluru Test against New Zealand after they lost Virat Kohli on the final ball of the day. Having laid the foundation of a good partnership and a revival for team India with a handsome score of 231/2, it was the dismissal of Kohli that made the headlines. The wicket left many raising question marks on the former Indian skipper’s concentration, but it was Rohit Sharma’s reaction in the stands that went viral.</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit’s reaction goes viral</strong></h2>

<p>Having been 95/2 and still trailing by 261 runs, the partnership of Virat and Sarfaraz Khan ripped rewards for India as they helped Rohit’s men to narrow down the lead. However, the untimely dismissal led the entire dressing room in sixes and sevens with India closing the day at 231/3. However, Rohit, who himself was unlucky with his dismissal was animated in the pavilion. He was frustrated and looked to hide his face as India now face a race against time to save the Test match.</p>

<p>The hosts still trail by 125 runs in the first innings and will need a real effort to avoid humiliation and defeat in the Bengaluru Test.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/noman-ali-and-sajid-khan-put-up-colossal-effort-to-see-pakistan-through-in-second-test-vs-eng-level-series-768619">Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>New Zealand extend dominance with bat</strong></h2>

<p>Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings.</p>

<p>At Stumps on Day 3, Sarfaraz was batting on 70 with Virat getting dismissed for the same score by Tom Glenn Phillips.</p>


The Indian team was left in sixes and sevens at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing Bengaluru Test against New Zealand after they lost Virat Kohli on the final ball of the day.

The Indian team was left in sixes and sevens at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing Bengaluru Test against New Zealand after they lost Virat Kohli on the final ball of the day. Having laid the foundation of a good partnership and a revival for team India with a handsome score of 231/2, it was the dismissal of Kohli that made the headlines. The wicket left many raising question marks on the former Indian skipper’s concentration, but it was Rohit Sharma’s reaction in the stands that went viral. Rohit’s reaction goes viral Having been 95/2 and still trailing by 261 runs, the partnership of Virat and Sarfaraz Khan ripped rewards for India as they helped Rohit’s men to narrow down the lead. However, the untimely dismissal led the entire dressing room in sixes and sevens with India closing the day at 231/3. However, Rohit, who himself was unlucky with his dismissal was animated in the pavilion. He was frustrated and looked to hide his face as India now face a race against time to save the Test match. The hosts still trail by 125 runs in the first innings and will need a real effort to avoid humiliation and defeat in the Bengaluru Test. ALSO READ | Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series New Zealand extend dominance with bat Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings. At Stumps on Day 3, Sarfaraz was batting on 70 with Virat getting dismissed for the same score by Tom Glenn Phillips.

IND vs NZ: Rohit's reaction after Virat Kohli's dismissal goes viral as hosts struggle to save Bengaluru Test

<p>New Zealand sit in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test after they gained a 356-run lead in the first innings against India in the first of the three-match Test series. While India were humiliated in the first innings after being bowled out for 46, the hosts made a solid start with Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan leading the revival in the second innings. At Stumps on Day 3, India were 231/3 and trailing by 125 runs with Sarfaraz batting on 70 while Virat got out on the final ball of the day on 70.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat’s wicket dilutes India’s revival</strong></h2>

<p>Tasked to narrow the lead of 356 runs, India made a good start to their second innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal (35) and Rohit Sharma (52) stitching an opening partnership of 72 runs. Despite the positive start, they both were dismissed in quick succession as India went from 72/0 to 95/2. However, it was the Virat-Sarfaraz partnership that laid the foundation for India’s revival as they staged a partnership of 136 runs for the third wicket before the former was dismissed on the final ball of Day 3.</p>

<p>The Indian pair was scoring at a rate of more than five runs per over before the day was diluted by Kohli’s untimely dismissal. Sarfaraz will now be joined by KL Rahul on Day 4 as Team India look for a way back into the contest.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/noman-ali-and-sajid-khan-put-up-colossal-effort-to-see-pakistan-through-in-second-test-vs-eng-level-series-768619">Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>New Zealand extend dominance with bat</strong></h2>

<p>Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings.</p>


New Zealand sit in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test after they gained a 356-run lead in the first innings against India in the first of the three-match Test series.

New Zealand sit in pole position to win the Bengaluru Test after they gained a 356-run lead in the first innings against India in the first of the three-match Test series. While India were humiliated in the first innings after being bowled out for 46, the hosts made a solid start with Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan leading the revival in the second innings. At Stumps on Day 3, India were 231/3 and trailing by 125 runs with Sarfaraz batting on 70 while Virat got out on the final ball of the day on 70. Virat’s wicket dilutes India’s revival Tasked to narrow the lead of 356 runs, India made a good start to their second innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal (35) and Rohit Sharma (52) stitching an opening partnership of 72 runs. Despite the positive start, they both were dismissed in quick succession as India went from 72/0 to 95/2. However, it was the Virat-Sarfaraz partnership that laid the foundation for India’s revival as they staged a partnership of 136 runs for the third wicket before the former was dismissed on the final ball of Day 3. The Indian pair was scoring at a rate of more than five runs per over before the day was diluted by Kohli’s untimely dismissal. Sarfaraz will now be joined by KL Rahul on Day 4 as Team India look for a way back into the contest. ALSO READ | Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series New Zealand extend dominance with bat Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: New Zealand in pole position in Bengaluru despite Kohli-Sarfaraz fightback

<p>Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lauded 'true champion' Virat Kohli for coming out to bat at No. 3 on Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Thursday (Oct 17). Kohli was promoted to No. 3, from No. 4, due to Shubman Gill not playing the series opener because of&nbsp;a stiff neck. Kohli came out soon, with India opting to bat first on Day 2 following a washout on Wednesday, after captain Rohit Sharma's dismissal (2). He, however, failed to open his account and was dismissed by William ORourke for a&nbsp;0 (9).</p>

<p>Manjrekar, however, hailed Kohli for doing the difficult job, at No. 3, and cited how Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar never wanted to come up the order in Tests but only in ODIs.</p>

<h2><strong>'Ganguly, Tendulkar never wanted to go up the order in Tests'</strong></h2>

<p>Despite Kohli's flop show, Manjrekar praised him for turning up in a tricky situation, on an unusual slot. He wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Hats off to Virat Kohli! Coming out to bat at no 3 bcoz the team needed it. Ganguly, Tendulkar were very keen to open in white-ball cricket, but never wanted to go up the order in Tests. That’s a true champion right there for you! Virat"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hats off to Virat Kohli!<br />
Coming out to bat at no 3 bcoz the team needed it.<br />
Ganguly, Tendulkar were very keen to open in white ball cricket, but never wanted to go up the order in Tests.<br />
That’s a true champion right there for you! Virat. 👏👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a></p>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1846770164282675232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-injured-shubman-gill-misses-out-kuldeep-yadav-and-sarfaraz-khan-named-in-indias-xi-768188">Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Injured Shubman Gill misses out, Kuldeep Yadav and Sarfaraz Khan named in India's XI</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli was removed by ORourke courtesy of a well-executed short-of-length ball, which got extra bounce and nipped back to the batter. The star Indian player nicked it with his gloves as the ball went flying to Glenn Phillip, stationed at leg gully.</p>

<p>Manjrekar also highlighted Kohli's issues post his dismissal. He mentioned, "Have said this before will say it again. Virat has compounded his problems by wanting to be on the front foot to every ball. No matter the length. Today’s dismissal ball could have been comfortably tackled off the back foot."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Have said this before will say it again. Virat has compounded his problems by wanting to be on the front foot to every ball. No matter the length. Today’s dismissal ball could have been comfortably tackled off the back foot. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a></p>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1846774629295378531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Kohli has a woeful record at No. 3 (where he batted after eight years and averages a woeful 16.16 including the latest outing). However, he still came out to bat to fill in for Gill. This also became his first-ever duck in Tests since 2021 (also coming against NZ). The former Indian captain has been below-par in Tests for long. His last fifty-plus score came in Dec 2023 (versus South Africa). In addition, he has only two centuries since 2019.</p>


Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lauded 'true champion' Virat Kohli for coming out to bat at No. 3 on Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Thursday (Oct 17).

Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lauded 'true champion' Virat Kohli for coming out to bat at No. 3 on Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Thursday (Oct 17). Kohli was promoted to No. 3, from No. 4, due to Shubman Gill not playing the series opener because of a stiff neck. Kohli came out soon, with India opting to bat first on Day 2 following a washout on Wednesday, after captain Rohit Sharma's dismissal (2). He, however, failed to open his account and was dismissed by William ORourke for a 0 (9). Manjrekar, however, hailed Kohli for doing the difficult job, at No. 3, and cited how Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar never wanted to come up the order in Tests but only in ODIs. 'Ganguly, Tendulkar never wanted to go up the order in Tests' Despite Kohli's flop show, Manjrekar praised him for turning up in a tricky situation, on an unusual slot. He wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Hats off to Virat Kohli! Coming out to bat at no 3 bcoz the team needed it. Ganguly, Tendulkar were very keen to open in white-ball cricket, but never wanted to go up the order in Tests. That’s a true champion right there for you! Virat" Hats off to Virat Kohli! Coming out to bat at no 3 bcoz the team needed it. Ganguly, Tendulkar were very keen to open in white ball cricket, but never wanted to go up the order in Tests. That’s a true champion right there for you! Virat. 👏👏👏#INDvNZ — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 17, 2024 × Also read: Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Injured Shubman Gill misses out, Kuldeep Yadav and Sarfaraz Khan named in India's XI Kohli was removed by ORourke courtesy of a well-executed short-of-length ball, which got extra bounce and nipped back to the batter. The star Indian player nicked it with his gloves as the ball went flying to Glenn Phillip, stationed at leg gully. Manjrekar also highlighted Kohli's issues post his dismissal. He mentioned, "Have said this before will say it again. Virat has compounded his problems by wanting to be on the front foot to every ball. No matter the length. Today’s dismissal ball could have been comfortably tackled off the back foot." Have said this before will say it again. Virat has compounded his problems by wanting to be on the front foot to every ball. No matter the length. Today’s dismissal ball could have been comfortably tackled off the back foot. #INDvNZ — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 17, 2024 × Kohli has a woeful record at No. 3 (where he batted after eight years and averages a woeful 16.16 including the latest outing). However, he still came out to bat to fill in for Gill. This also became his first-ever duck in Tests since 2021 (also coming against NZ). The former Indian captain has been below-par in Tests for long. His last fifty-plus score came in Dec 2023 (versus South Africa). In addition, he has only two centuries since 2019.

Ind vs NZ: 'Ganguly, Tendulkar never wanted...', Manjrekar lauds Kohli for batting at No. 3 in Bengaluru Test

<p>India batter Virat Kohli has shared a heartfelt message with his former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate and South Africa batter AB de Villiers. The letter was written after the International Cricket Council (ICC) inducted de Villiers in the Hall of Fame.&nbsp;</p>

<p>De Villiers was known as one of the most fearsome batters in the world cricket, especially in T20s, where he became famous as Mr. 360 for playing shots all around the pitch.</p>

<p>"To AB,</p>

<p>It is an honour to be selected to write these words as you enter the ICC Hall of Fame.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/srh-decide-to-retain-heinrich-klaasen-pat-cummins-and-abhishek-sharma-ahead-of-ipl-auction-768091">SRH decide to retain Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins and Abhishek Sharma ahead of IPL auction</a></p>

<p>You are thoroughly deserving of your place - after all, the Hall of Fame is a representation of your impact on the game, and yours has been truly unique.</p>

<p>People have always spoken about your ability, and rightly so. You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, the absolute number one.</p>

<p>But what truly stood out to me was your belief in that ability. You had a crazy amount of belief that you could execute whatever you wanted to on a cricket field, and you normally did. That is why you ended up being so special.</p>

<p>There is no better example in my mind than when we were batting together for RCB in Kolkata in 2016," read an excerpt from Kohli's letter.</p>

<p>Kohli and de Villiers share a strong bond which developed during their time playing together for RCB. The duo played in 156 IPL matches together for 11 years, scoring 3175 runs in 77 innings - the most for RCB. Their partnership also includes 10 centuries as well.</p>

<p>At international level, de Villiers played 420 matches for SA, scoring 20,014 runs at an average of 48 with 47 hundreds and 109 fifties to his name to go with a highest score of 278 not out.</p>


India batter Virat Kohli has shared a heartfelt message with his former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate and South Africa batter AB de Villiers. The letter was written after the International Cricket Council (ICC) inducted de Villiers in the Hall of Fame.

India batter Virat Kohli has shared a heartfelt message with his former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate and South Africa batter AB de Villiers. The letter was written after the International Cricket Council (ICC) inducted de Villiers in the Hall of Fame. De Villiers was known as one of the most fearsome batters in the world cricket, especially in T20s, where he became famous as Mr. 360 for playing shots all around the pitch. "To AB, It is an honour to be selected to write these words as you enter the ICC Hall of Fame. Also Read: SRH decide to retain Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins and Abhishek Sharma ahead of IPL auction You are thoroughly deserving of your place - after all, the Hall of Fame is a representation of your impact on the game, and yours has been truly unique. People have always spoken about your ability, and rightly so. You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, the absolute number one. But what truly stood out to me was your belief in that ability. You had a crazy amount of belief that you could execute whatever you wanted to on a cricket field, and you normally did. That is why you ended up being so special. There is no better example in my mind than when we were batting together for RCB in Kolkata in 2016," read an excerpt from Kohli's letter. Kohli and de Villiers share a strong bond which developed during their time playing together for RCB. The duo played in 156 IPL matches together for 11 years, scoring 3175 runs in 77 innings - the most for RCB. Their partnership also includes 10 centuries as well. At international level, de Villiers played 420 matches for SA, scoring 20,014 runs at an average of 48 with 47 hundreds and 109 fifties to his name to go with a highest score of 278 not out.

'You could execute...,' Virat Kohli writes touching letter for AB de Villiers on induction to ICC Hall of Fame

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