<p>Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 131 on the opening day of the third Test between India and England on Thursday (Feb 15). After hosts decided to bat first, Rohit-led India were tottering at 33 for 3 before Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (110 not out) resurrected the Indian innings, with a 204-run fourth-wicket stand, as hosts ended day's play at 326 for 5.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit, who looked in control, played a cautious and mature knock after India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill and Rajat Patidar for cheap. He reached his 11th Test ton, third versus England, and equalled Kapil Dev in an elite list for Indian captains. Rohit is now equal with Kapil (3) in terms of most hundreds by Indian captain in Tests. Virat Kohli leads the list with 20 hundreds as India captain in whites. The list also features some big names such as Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, Md Azharuddin, etc.</p>

<p><strong>MOST HUNDREDS AS INDIAN TEST&nbsp;CAPTAIN</strong><br />
Virat Kohli - 20<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 11<br />
Mohammad Azharuddin - 9<br />
Sachin Tendulkar - 7<br />
MS Dhoni - 5<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 5<br />
MAK Pataudi - 5<br />
Rahul Dravid - 4<br />
Kapil Dev - 3<br />
<strong>Rohit Sharma - 3*</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-not-surprised-with-rohit-sharma-confirmed-to-lead-india-in-t20-world-cup-heres-why-690489">Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why -</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Rohit, at 36 years and 291 days, became the oldest Indian captain to hit an international hundred, breaking Vijay Hazare's feat attained in 1951.</p>

<p>After Rohit fell for 131, in the final session, Jadeja and debutant Sarfaraz Khan added another 77 runs, for the fifth wicket, before the latter fell for an attacking 62-ball 66. At the end of day's play, Jadeja remains not out -- along with Kuldeep Yadav -- and will be eager to carry on and get a big score for India to cross the 450-run mark.&nbsp;</p>


Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 131 on the opening day of the third Test between India and England on Thursday (Feb 15). After hosts decided to bat first, Rohit-led India were tottering at 33 for 3 before Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (110 not out) resurrected the Indian innings, with a 204-run fourth-wicket stand, as hosts ended day's play at 326 for 5.

Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 131 on the opening day of the third Test between India and England on Thursday (Feb 15). After hosts decided to bat first, Rohit-led India were tottering at 33 for 3 before Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (110 not out) resurrected the Indian innings, with a 204-run fourth-wicket stand, as hosts ended day's play at 326 for 5. Rohit, who looked in control, played a cautious and mature knock after India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill and Rajat Patidar for cheap. He reached his 11th Test ton, third versus England, and equalled Kapil Dev in an elite list for Indian captains. Rohit is now equal with Kapil (3) in terms of most hundreds by Indian captain in Tests. Virat Kohli leads the list with 20 hundreds as India captain in whites. The list also features some big names such as Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, Md Azharuddin, etc. MOST HUNDREDS AS INDIAN TEST CAPTAIN Virat Kohli - 20 Sunil Gavaskar - 11 Mohammad Azharuddin - 9 Sachin Tendulkar - 7 MS Dhoni - 5 Sourav Ganguly - 5 MAK Pataudi - 5 Rahul Dravid - 4 Kapil Dev - 3 Rohit Sharma - 3* Also read: Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why - In addition, Rohit, at 36 years and 291 days, became the oldest Indian captain to hit an international hundred, breaking Vijay Hazare's feat attained in 1951. After Rohit fell for 131, in the final session, Jadeja and debutant Sarfaraz Khan added another 77 runs, for the fifth wicket, before the latter fell for an attacking 62-ball 66. At the end of day's play, Jadeja remains not out -- along with Kuldeep Yadav -- and will be eager to carry on and get a big score for India to cross the 450-run mark.

Rajkot Test: Rohit Sharma emulates Kapil Dev in elite list for Indian captains during 131-run knock

<p>In less than 24 hours, England will take on India in the third Test match at Rajkot as the two nations prepare to face off for the third time in the five-match Test series. Ben Stokes, England captain will be playing his landmark 100th Test match on Thursday (Feb 15) at the Niranjan Shah Stadium and is focused on his side to register a win in the absence of Virat Kohli. However, Stokes claims that they won’t take anything for granted and will not label that as positive or negative heading into the match.</p>

<h2><strong>Stokes opines on Kohli’s absence</strong></h2>

<p>"I don't mean to say anything disrespectful to the question. I think when it's situations like these, when someone is missing a big series and a lot of cricket due to personal reasons, which we are not sure of, we shouldn't label that as positive or negative to our team," Stokes said in the video posted by the ECB.</p>

<p>England will enter the third Test match having returned from Abu Dhabi after a one-week break. They were away for warm training in the UAE and only returned to India on Monday. During the period it was also announced that Kohli won’t participate in the rest of the series due to personal issues. The former India captain was initially out for just two matches but on Saturday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Kohli’s absence from the entire series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-aus-trent-boult-returns-to-t20i-squad-rachin-ravindra-josh-clarkson-handed-maiden-call-ups-690101">NZ vs AUS: Trent Boult returns to T20I squad; Rachin Ravindra, Josh Clarkson handed maiden call-ups</a></p>

<h2><strong>England announce Playing XI</strong></h2>

<p>England made wholesome changes to their Playing XI for the third Test match against India as the visitors recalled Mark Wood. The pacer having played the opening Test against India in Hyderabad was recalled after England decided to field two pacers for the third red-ball contest in Rajkot. This equation resulted in Vizag debutant Shoaib Bashir missing out on a place in the Playing XI.</p>

<p>Having won the opening Test by 28 runs in Hyderabad, the visitors were given a reality check by India after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s double ton and Jasprit Bumrah’s smart bowling in Vizag. India won the Test by 106 runs and will enter Rajkot with intentions of back-to-back wins having levelled the series at 1-1.</p>


In less than 24 hours, England will take on India in the third Test match at Rajkot as the two nations prepare to face off for the third time in the five-match Test series.

In less than 24 hours, England will take on India in the third Test match at Rajkot as the two nations prepare to face off for the third time in the five-match Test series. Ben Stokes, England captain will be playing his landmark 100th Test match on Thursday (Feb 15) at the Niranjan Shah Stadium and is focused on his side to register a win in the absence of Virat Kohli. However, Stokes claims that they won’t take anything for granted and will not label that as positive or negative heading into the match. Stokes opines on Kohli’s absence "I don't mean to say anything disrespectful to the question. I think when it's situations like these, when someone is missing a big series and a lot of cricket due to personal reasons, which we are not sure of, we shouldn't label that as positive or negative to our team," Stokes said in the video posted by the ECB. England will enter the third Test match having returned from Abu Dhabi after a one-week break. They were away for warm training in the UAE and only returned to India on Monday. During the period it was also announced that Kohli won’t participate in the rest of the series due to personal issues. The former India captain was initially out for just two matches but on Saturday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Kohli’s absence from the entire series. ALSO READ | NZ vs AUS: Trent Boult returns to T20I squad; Rachin Ravindra, Josh Clarkson handed maiden call-ups England announce Playing XI England made wholesome changes to their Playing XI for the third Test match against India as the visitors recalled Mark Wood. The pacer having played the opening Test against India in Hyderabad was recalled after England decided to field two pacers for the third red-ball contest in Rajkot. This equation resulted in Vizag debutant Shoaib Bashir missing out on a place in the Playing XI. Having won the opening Test by 28 runs in Hyderabad, the visitors were given a reality check by India after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s double ton and Jasprit Bumrah’s smart bowling in Vizag. India won the Test by 106 runs and will enter Rajkot with intentions of back-to-back wins having levelled the series at 1-1.

IND vs ENG: We shouldn’t label that as positive or negative - Ben Stokes on Virat Kohli’s absence

<p>Former India coach Ravi Shastri has praised former India skipper Virat Kohli for willing to do the hard yards for Test cricket. Kohli, who stepped down from Test captaincy in 2022, was one of the most successful Test skippers not just for India but in the whole world. Shastri was India's Team Director for most of the time during Kohli's tenure as skipper and the team rose to&nbsp;number one in Test cricket during their partnership at the top.</p>

<p>"Kohli was fully engaged with Test cricket. He was passionate. He was prepared to do the hard yards and was prepared to play tough cricket, which fitted my way of thinking. When you play Australia or Pakistan you’ve got to have a 'no complaints', 'no excuses' attitude," said Shastri as quoted by news agency PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-talk-about-bazball-after-series-is-over-says-india-spinner-ravi-ashwin-689178">'Will talk about Bazball after series is over,' says India spinner Ravi Ashwin</a></p>

<p>Shastri also said that he identified the leadership potential in Kohli while MS Dhoni was still the skipper. Shastri was with Indian Team in 2014 when Kohli took over reins from Dhoni.</p>

<p>“While (MS) Dhoni was my captain, my eye was on him (Kohli). I told him very early in my second month: ‘It’ll take time but watch, observe, be ready (for the captaincy)’,” said the former India coach.</p>

<p>Kohli led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them - the most for any Indian skipper. Under Kohli, India also won two times in Australia - the first Asian team to do so. In rest of the 28 games, Kohli's India lost 17 games and drew 11 of them.</p>

<p>The batter, however, currently is not playing in the ongoing five-match series against England at home due to personal reasons. Kohli last played in India jersey during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he scored 765 runs in 11 games - the most for any batter in the history of tournament.</p>


Former India coach Ravi Shastri has praised former India skipper Virat Kohli for willing to do the hard yards for Test cricket. Kohli, who stepped down from Test captaincy in 2022, was one of the most successful Test skippers not just for India but in the whole world.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has praised former India skipper Virat Kohli for willing to do the hard yards for Test cricket. Kohli, who stepped down from Test captaincy in 2022, was one of the most successful Test skippers not just for India but in the whole world. Shastri was India's Team Director for most of the time during Kohli's tenure as skipper and the team rose to number one in Test cricket during their partnership at the top. "Kohli was fully engaged with Test cricket. He was passionate. He was prepared to do the hard yards and was prepared to play tough cricket, which fitted my way of thinking. When you play Australia or Pakistan you’ve got to have a 'no complaints', 'no excuses' attitude," said Shastri as quoted by news agency PTI. Also Read: 'Will talk about Bazball after series is over,' says India spinner Ravi Ashwin Shastri also said that he identified the leadership potential in Kohli while MS Dhoni was still the skipper. Shastri was with Indian Team in 2014 when Kohli took over reins from Dhoni. “While (MS) Dhoni was my captain, my eye was on him (Kohli). I told him very early in my second month: ‘It’ll take time but watch, observe, be ready (for the captaincy)’,” said the former India coach. Kohli led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them - the most for any Indian skipper. Under Kohli, India also won two times in Australia - the first Asian team to do so. In rest of the 28 games, Kohli's India lost 17 games and drew 11 of them. The batter, however, currently is not playing in the ongoing five-match series against England at home due to personal reasons. Kohli last played in India jersey during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he scored 765 runs in 11 games - the most for any batter in the history of tournament.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri reveals what made Virat Kohli successful Test skipper

<p>India batting great Virat Kohli remained unavailable for the first two England Tests, citing personal reasons for his absence. However, the latest reports suggest that the former India captain might miss the complete series for reasons only known to people within the board and dressing room. Dale Steyn, once Kohli's on-field foe and former IPL teammate, has thrown&nbsp;his weight behind Kohli for prioritising family over cricket.</p>

<p>Considering neither Kohli nor the BCCI has laid out any explanation as to why he is missing the England Tests, the Indian fans, going by what Kohli’s former IPL mate and good friend AB de Villiers revealed in his YouTube live lately, saying he (Kohli) and Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child, are anticipating the exact reason for his unavailability.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-afg-pathum-nissanka-slams-sri-lankas-first-odi-double-hundred-688711">SL vs AFG: Pathum Nissanka slams Sri Lanka's first ODI double hundred</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on the same, on the sidelines of SA20 in South Africa, Steyn said,&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think family is your most important priority. I'm sorry, like, that's it, you know. That's the end of the story. Like right there.”</p>

<p>"I've got three dogs, and if one dog got sick, and I was in the IPL, I'm jumping on the first plane out of there to come back to see my dog,” Steyn said, adding he would have done the same had he been in Virat Kohli’s place.</p>

<h2>‘People don’t understand...’</h2>

<p>With Kohli being a monumental figure in Indian cricket, the fans expect him to remain available for at least top series and deliver on each occasion. Now, since Kohli is unavailable for the five Tests against England, a section of fans expressed their displeasure on social media over his absence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Replying to all those negative remarks against one of cricket’s greatest batters, Steyn said for everyone, family and close friends should be the priority as they are the ones that keep the person motivated and going.</p>

<p>"I think that the people behind you; the people behind the scenes, are what the public don't see. So your wife, your partner, your mother, your mom, your brother, your sister, your father, your cousin, it doesn't really matter; those people are the ones constantly picking you up and keeping you at where you are," said Steyn.</p>

<p>"And if it means that the house is in jeopardy or something is wrong with them or something like that, then you go to them; that's the most important thing,” he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, after the first two Tests, the scoreline reads 1-1. While England won the curtain-raiser in Hyderabad, India won the second Test in Vizag. The third Test of the series will begin on February 15 in Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>


India batting great Virat Kohli remained unavailable for the first two England Tests, citing personal reasons for his absence. However, the latest reports suggest that the former India captain might miss the complete series for reasons only known to people within the board and dressing room.

India batting great Virat Kohli remained unavailable for the first two England Tests, citing personal reasons for his absence. However, the latest reports suggest that the former India captain might miss the complete series for reasons only known to people within the board and dressing room. Dale Steyn, once Kohli's on-field foe and former IPL teammate, has thrown his weight behind Kohli for prioritising family over cricket. Considering neither Kohli nor the BCCI has laid out any explanation as to why he is missing the England Tests, the Indian fans, going by what Kohli’s former IPL mate and good friend AB de Villiers revealed in his YouTube live lately, saying he (Kohli) and Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child, are anticipating the exact reason for his unavailability. ALSO READ: SL vs AFG: Pathum Nissanka slams Sri Lanka's first ODI double hundred Speaking on the same, on the sidelines of SA20 in South Africa, Steyn said, "I think family is your most important priority. I'm sorry, like, that's it, you know. That's the end of the story. Like right there.” "I've got three dogs, and if one dog got sick, and I was in the IPL, I'm jumping on the first plane out of there to come back to see my dog,” Steyn said, adding he would have done the same had he been in Virat Kohli’s place. ‘People don’t understand...’ With Kohli being a monumental figure in Indian cricket, the fans expect him to remain available for at least top series and deliver on each occasion. Now, since Kohli is unavailable for the five Tests against England, a section of fans expressed their displeasure on social media over his absence. Replying to all those negative remarks against one of cricket’s greatest batters, Steyn said for everyone, family and close friends should be the priority as they are the ones that keep the person motivated and going. "I think that the people behind you; the people behind the scenes, are what the public don't see. So your wife, your partner, your mother, your mom, your brother, your sister, your father, your cousin, it doesn't really matter; those people are the ones constantly picking you up and keeping you at where you are," said Steyn. "And if it means that the house is in jeopardy or something is wrong with them or something like that, then you go to them; that's the most important thing,” he added. Meanwhile, after the first two Tests, the scoreline reads 1-1. While England won the curtain-raiser in Hyderabad, India won the second Test in Vizag. The third Test of the series will begin on February 15 in Rajkot.

Dale Steyn throws weight behind Virat Kohli for skipping England Tests, says ‘family is priority’

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion. Virat, who missed the opening two matches will continue to miss the rest of the series with BCCI giving full support to the former India captain. While Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are included in the squad but will have to await medical clearance from the team before stepping back on the field for the third Test in Rajkot which starts on Thursday (Feb 15).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Squad for final three Tests against England announced.<br />
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<h2><strong>Virat to miss Test series</strong></h2>

<p>The BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed&nbsp;Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. With&nbsp;1991 runs, Virat had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club by scoring 52 runs and make England his favourite Test opponent.</p>

<p>Another exclusion from the squad is&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer. A&nbsp;back strain&nbsp;has put&nbsp;him out of action for the majority of 2022 and 2023. He also missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season due to a back problem. He is&nbsp;expected to return to action during the IPL 2024 season.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-bosses-unconvinced-by-blue-card-plan-after-ifab-sets-for-trail-688782">Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail</a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting&nbsp;Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion. Virat, who missed the opening two matches will continue to miss the rest of the series with BCCI giving full support to the former India captain. While Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are included in the squad but will have to await medical clearance from the team before stepping back on the field for the third Test in Rajkot which starts on Thursday (Feb 15). 🚨 NEWS 🚨#TeamIndia's Squad for final three Tests against England announced. Details 🔽 #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBankhttps://t.co/JPXnyD4WBK — BCCI (@BCCI) February 10, 2024 × Virat to miss Test series The BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. With 1991 runs, Virat had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club by scoring 52 runs and make England his favourite Test opponent. Another exclusion from the squad is Shreyas Iyer. A back strain has put him out of action for the majority of 2022 and 2023. He also missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season due to a back problem. He is expected to return to action during the IPL 2024 season. ALSO READ | Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting Thursday. Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep

IND vs ENG: Virat to miss remainder of series due to personal reason; Jadeja, Rahul await fitness clearance

<p>Another injury scare hits the Indian camp, with latest reports suggesting batter Shreyas Iyer picking up the ever-troubling back injury, casting doubts over his participation in the third England Test in Rajkot. Per the sources (in MCA) close to the information, Iyer has complained of back stiffness ahead of the third Test starting on February 15.</p>

<p>The reports suggest the National Cricket Academy (NCA) has written to the BCCI about Iyer’s fitness status. Though the selectors are yet to meet for squad announcement for the remaining three Tests, Iyer’s absence is said to be a certainty. With veteran batter Virat Kohli already deemed unavailable (for at least the next two Tests) for personal reasons, not having Iyer in the middle order could worry Rohit and the Indian camp.</p>

<p>Earlier, Cricbuzz first reported that Vizag Test hero Jasprit Bumrah, who picked nine wickets across two outings, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings, will be rested for the third game to manage his workload. However, with&nbsp;uncertainties around the fitness and availability of a few players, the selectors are yet to meet and pick the final 15.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the selectors were supposed to meet on February 8 and announce the squad for the remaining three Tests, but now the announcement might come over the weekend.</p>

<h2>Back issue returns to haunt Iyer</h2>

<p>After missing a major chunk of cricket in the first half of last year with a back injury, the same issue has returned to haunt the Indian batter. Iyer didn’t play the IPL and the World Test Championship final in 2023 and only returned to the scheme of things in August ahead of the Asia Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-true-ab-de-villiers-makes-u-turn-from-statement-on-virat-kohlis-absence-688549">'Not True...': AB De Villiers makes U-turn from statement on Virat Kohli's absence</a></strong></p>

<p>Iyer was instrumental in helping India win the six-team tournament co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and later, with his crucial knocks in the group stages, guided India to the 2023 World Cup final, wherein they lost to Australia by six wickets.</p>

<p>Considering the situation with star players missing from the middle order, India will play KL Rahul at number four and continue to back Rajat Patidar to take up the next spot in the batting order.</p>

<p>Although keeper-batter KS Bharat is going through a rough patch with the bat in hand, head coach Rahul Dravid has vowed to trust him to come good in the remaining matches. Contrary to this notion around him, India might play Dhruv Jurel in Bharat’s place for the Rajkot Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In two matches thus far, Iyer has scored 104 runs at an average of 26.</p>


Another injury scare hits the Indian camp, with latest reports suggesting batter Shreyas Iyer picking up the ever-troubling back injury, casting doubts over his participation in the third England Test in Rajkot.

Another injury scare hits the Indian camp, with latest reports suggesting batter Shreyas Iyer picking up the ever-troubling back injury, casting doubts over his participation in the third England Test in Rajkot. Per the sources (in MCA) close to the information, Iyer has complained of back stiffness ahead of the third Test starting on February 15. The reports suggest the National Cricket Academy (NCA) has written to the BCCI about Iyer’s fitness status. Though the selectors are yet to meet for squad announcement for the remaining three Tests, Iyer’s absence is said to be a certainty. With veteran batter Virat Kohli already deemed unavailable (for at least the next two Tests) for personal reasons, not having Iyer in the middle order could worry Rohit and the Indian camp. Earlier, Cricbuzz first reported that Vizag Test hero Jasprit Bumrah, who picked nine wickets across two outings, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings, will be rested for the third game to manage his workload. However, with uncertainties around the fitness and availability of a few players, the selectors are yet to meet and pick the final 15. Meanwhile, the selectors were supposed to meet on February 8 and announce the squad for the remaining three Tests, but now the announcement might come over the weekend. Back issue returns to haunt Iyer After missing a major chunk of cricket in the first half of last year with a back injury, the same issue has returned to haunt the Indian batter. Iyer didn’t play the IPL and the World Test Championship final in 2023 and only returned to the scheme of things in August ahead of the Asia Cup. ALSO READ: 'Not True...': AB De Villiers makes U-turn from statement on Virat Kohli's absence Iyer was instrumental in helping India win the six-team tournament co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and later, with his crucial knocks in the group stages, guided India to the 2023 World Cup final, wherein they lost to Australia by six wickets. Considering the situation with star players missing from the middle order, India will play KL Rahul at number four and continue to back Rajat Patidar to take up the next spot in the batting order. Although keeper-batter KS Bharat is going through a rough patch with the bat in hand, head coach Rahul Dravid has vowed to trust him to come good in the remaining matches. Contrary to this notion around him, India might play Dhruv Jurel in Bharat’s place for the Rajkot Test. In two matches thus far, Iyer has scored 104 runs at an average of 26.

IND vs ENG: Shreyas Iyer doubtful for Rajkot Test as injury woes mount for India

<p>Virat Kohli is on a break from international cricket and has not featured in India's ongoing five-match Test series versus England, at home. Kohli left the squad prior to the first Test, in Hyderabad, citing personal reasons and still not much is known regarding his absence and possible return for the final three Tests. Amidst all this, former South Africa captain and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star AB de Villiers was asked about Kohli's absence.</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, De Villiers said that Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child.&nbsp; "All I know is he is fine. He is spending a bit of time with his family, that is the reason he is missing the first two Test matches. I am not going to confirm anything else. I cannot wait to see him back. He is fine, he is happy," revealed De Villiers on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>He opined, "Let me just see what he said. I just want to at least give you a little bit of love. So I wrote to him 'Been wanting to check in with you for a while now biscuits. How are you?'. He said 'Just need to be with my family right now'. Then I said I am doing well."</p>

<p>"Yes, his second child is on the way. Yes, it's family time and things are important to him. If you are not true and genuine to yourself, you lose track of what you are here for. I think most people's priority is family. You can't judge Virat for that. Yes, we miss him, but he has made the right decision," ABD added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-propelled-them-to-learn-and-get-better-philander-on-indian-pacers-rise-thrilled-for-bumrahs-success-688249">Kohli propelled them to learn and get better: Philander on rise of Indian pacers</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'That information was wrong and not true at all'</strong></h2>

<p>However, the South African has now retracted from his statement on Kohli's absence. Talking to Dainik Bhaskar, De Villiers said, "Family comes first and then Cricket. I had made a big mistake on my YouTube channel. That information was wrong and not true at all. I think whatever's best for Virat's family comes first. No one knows what's happening there, all i can do is wish him well. Whatever the reason for his break, I hope he can comeback stronger, better and fresh from this."</p>

<p>Nothing is known regarding Kohli's absence. Fans might get a clear picture when BCCI selectors announce India's squad for the final three Tests versus England. As per reports, Kohli is expected to miss the third and fourth Test and, thus, one wishes that everything is fine at his end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The squad is expected to be out soon with the third Test starting on Feb 15 in Rajkot.</p>


Virat Kohli is on a break from international cricket and has not featured in India's ongoing five-match Test series versus England, at home. Kohli left the squad prior to the first Test, in Hyderabad, citing personal reasons and still not much is known regarding his absence and possible return for the final three Tests.

Virat Kohli is on a break from international cricket and has not featured in India's ongoing five-match Test series versus England, at home. Kohli left the squad prior to the first Test, in Hyderabad, citing personal reasons and still not much is known regarding his absence and possible return for the final three Tests. Amidst all this, former South Africa captain and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star AB de Villiers was asked about Kohli's absence. On his YouTube channel, De Villiers said that Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child. "All I know is he is fine. He is spending a bit of time with his family, that is the reason he is missing the first two Test matches. I am not going to confirm anything else. I cannot wait to see him back. He is fine, he is happy," revealed De Villiers on his YouTube channel. He opined, "Let me just see what he said. I just want to at least give you a little bit of love. So I wrote to him 'Been wanting to check in with you for a while now biscuits. How are you?'. He said 'Just need to be with my family right now'. Then I said I am doing well." "Yes, his second child is on the way. Yes, it's family time and things are important to him. If you are not true and genuine to yourself, you lose track of what you are here for. I think most people's priority is family. You can't judge Virat for that. Yes, we miss him, but he has made the right decision," ABD added. Also read: Kohli propelled them to learn and get better: Philander on rise of Indian pacers 'That information was wrong and not true at all' However, the South African has now retracted from his statement on Kohli's absence. Talking to Dainik Bhaskar, De Villiers said, "Family comes first and then Cricket. I had made a big mistake on my YouTube channel. That information was wrong and not true at all. I think whatever's best for Virat's family comes first. No one knows what's happening there, all i can do is wish him well. Whatever the reason for his break, I hope he can comeback stronger, better and fresh from this." Nothing is known regarding Kohli's absence. Fans might get a clear picture when BCCI selectors announce India's squad for the final three Tests versus England. As per reports, Kohli is expected to miss the third and fourth Test and, thus, one wishes that everything is fine at his end. The squad is expected to be out soon with the third Test starting on Feb 15 in Rajkot.

'Not True...': AB De Villiers makes U-turn from statement on Virat Kohli's absence

<p>Former South African pacer Vernon Philander is in awe of Indian fast bowlers' rise in recent years. While India have been a dominant force at home, relying on their spinners to win Test matches, they have also become fierce competitors abroad due to&nbsp;their pace department. Philander lauded Virat Kohli for the rise of the Indian pace attack and also hailed&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;in an interview to news agency PTI.</p>

<p>"Every time India comes here (South Africa), they seem to be performing better than the previous tour. In the subcontinent, Indian spinners have been winning the games but It's just good to see the Indian team winning in Australia," said Philander talking to PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blow-for-india-and-world-cricket-nasser-hussain-on-virat-kohli-likely-to-miss-entire-test-series-vs-england-688168">Blow for India and world cricket: Nasser Hussain on Virat Kohli likely to miss entire Test series vs England</a></strong></p>

<p>He credited former captain Kohli and opined, "That's a very positive sign for India to produce those sort of bowlers... It is also on the back of great leadership. Virat Kohli had been a strong leader who was propelling his bowlers to go and learn and get better."</p>

<p>Under Kohli, India became a lethal force as travellers as well, owing to their pacers such as Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, etc.</p>

<p>Bumrah, the 30-year-old Indian pace spearhead on Wednesday (Feb 8), became the No. 1 bowler in ICC Test rankings after leading India to a series-levelling 106-run win over England in the second Test of the ongoing home series. He also became the first Indian speedster&nbsp;to top the Test bowling charts. In addition, the pacer&nbsp;became the second player after&nbsp;Kohli to reach the summit of the rankings across all formats.</p>

<p>Heaping praise on Bumrah, Philander added, "Bumrah is the (most) complete bowler at the moment. He has got magnificent skills and he has also learnt the trade of holding a line and length and that is the reason behind his success at the Test level. Initially, he wanted to bowl wicket-taking deliveries all the time and leaked runs but now he has learnt consistency."</p>

<p>Bumrah-starrer India is now gearing up for the third Test versus England, which starts on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series levelled at 1-1.&nbsp;</p>


Former South African pacer Vernon Philander is in awe of Indian fast bowlers' rise in recent years. While India have been a dominant force at home, relying on their spinners to win Test matches, they have also become fierce competitors abroad due to their pace department.

Former South African pacer Vernon Philander is in awe of Indian fast bowlers' rise in recent years. While India have been a dominant force at home, relying on their spinners to win Test matches, they have also become fierce competitors abroad due to their pace department. Philander lauded Virat Kohli for the rise of the Indian pace attack and also hailed Jasprit Bumrah in an interview to news agency PTI. "Every time India comes here (South Africa), they seem to be performing better than the previous tour. In the subcontinent, Indian spinners have been winning the games but It's just good to see the Indian team winning in Australia," said Philander talking to PTI. Also read: Blow for India and world cricket: Nasser Hussain on Virat Kohli likely to miss entire Test series vs England He credited former captain Kohli and opined, "That's a very positive sign for India to produce those sort of bowlers... It is also on the back of great leadership. Virat Kohli had been a strong leader who was propelling his bowlers to go and learn and get better." Under Kohli, India became a lethal force as travellers as well, owing to their pacers such as Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, etc. Bumrah, the 30-year-old Indian pace spearhead on Wednesday (Feb 8), became the No. 1 bowler in ICC Test rankings after leading India to a series-levelling 106-run win over England in the second Test of the ongoing home series. He also became the first Indian speedster to top the Test bowling charts. In addition, the pacer became the second player after Kohli to reach the summit of the rankings across all formats. Heaping praise on Bumrah, Philander added, "Bumrah is the (most) complete bowler at the moment. He has got magnificent skills and he has also learnt the trade of holding a line and length and that is the reason behind his success at the Test level. Initially, he wanted to bowl wicket-taking deliveries all the time and leaked runs but now he has learnt consistency." Bumrah-starrer India is now gearing up for the third Test versus England, which starts on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series levelled at 1-1.

Kohli propelled them to learn and get better: Philander on rise of Indian pacers

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India's squad for the remaining three Tests versus England in the coming days. After the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with all to play for in the final three games. All eyes are on Virat Kohli's availability, injured trio of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj's return.</p>

<p>While there has been news around Jadeja, Siraj and Rahul's return, there are wide speculations that Kohli will miss the next two Tests as well or the entire series. The former Indian captain had marked himself unavailable ahead of the series due to personal reasons and nothing is known regarding his comeback. Now, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opened up on Kohli's likely absence from the entire series and feels it is a 'big blow for India and world cricket' if the star player misses out.</p>

<p>Speaking on Sky Sports, Hussain said, "Yeah, well, nothing's confirmed at the moment. There's speculation, whether it's the next two Test matches, they're going to announce their side in the next few hours. Whether it's the next three Test matches, so nothing's confirmed, but it will be a blow.</p>

<p>“It'll be a blow for India. It'll be a blow for the series. It'll be a blow for world cricket. It's going to be a special series. It already has been. The first two games have been fascinating."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-root-lauds-rohit-and-kohli-says-visitors-eager-to-keep-them-quiet-throughout-the-series-687867">Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet in the series</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'We don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest, but family comes first'</strong></h2>

<p>In addition, Hussain lauded&nbsp;Kohli and stated that he deserves time away from the game having served his nation for more than one and a half decades with aplomb. The Englishman opined, "And make no mistake, Kohli is one of the greatest batters to ever play the game and any series and any side would miss someone of the stature of Kohli. But first things first, and the game needs to look after the likes of Kohli as well. He's been playing international cricket for more than 15 years now, and if he needs a break to be away with family, just some time away from the game."</p>

<p>He added, "We wish Kohli all the best. It means we don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest like we've seen over the years, so be it. But you know, Kohli and his family and his private life have to come first. So it's a blow for India. But as we've seen, they've got a lot of very good young batters and again speculating, KL Rahul, who was injured for the last game and has played brilliantly in the last few months for India in all formats, will come back in, so he'll add to their batting."</p>

<p>India's squad for the remaining three Tests should be out before the end of this week. The third Test kicks off on Feb 15 in Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India's squad for the remaining three Tests versus England in the coming days. After the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with all to play for in the final three games.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India's squad for the remaining three Tests versus England in the coming days. After the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with all to play for in the final three games. All eyes are on Virat Kohli's availability, injured trio of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj's return. While there has been news around Jadeja, Siraj and Rahul's return, there are wide speculations that Kohli will miss the next two Tests as well or the entire series. The former Indian captain had marked himself unavailable ahead of the series due to personal reasons and nothing is known regarding his comeback. Now, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opened up on Kohli's likely absence from the entire series and feels it is a 'big blow for India and world cricket' if the star player misses out. Speaking on Sky Sports, Hussain said, "Yeah, well, nothing's confirmed at the moment. There's speculation, whether it's the next two Test matches, they're going to announce their side in the next few hours. Whether it's the next three Test matches, so nothing's confirmed, but it will be a blow. “It'll be a blow for India. It'll be a blow for the series. It'll be a blow for world cricket. It's going to be a special series. It already has been. The first two games have been fascinating." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet in the series 'We don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest, but family comes first' In addition, Hussain lauded Kohli and stated that he deserves time away from the game having served his nation for more than one and a half decades with aplomb. The Englishman opined, "And make no mistake, Kohli is one of the greatest batters to ever play the game and any series and any side would miss someone of the stature of Kohli. But first things first, and the game needs to look after the likes of Kohli as well. He's been playing international cricket for more than 15 years now, and if he needs a break to be away with family, just some time away from the game." He added, "We wish Kohli all the best. It means we don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest like we've seen over the years, so be it. But you know, Kohli and his family and his private life have to come first. So it's a blow for India. But as we've seen, they've got a lot of very good young batters and again speculating, KL Rahul, who was injured for the last game and has played brilliantly in the last few months for India in all formats, will come back in, so he'll add to their batting." India's squad for the remaining three Tests should be out before the end of this week. The third Test kicks off on Feb 15 in Rajkot.

Blow for India and world cricket: Nasser Hussain on Virat Kohli likely to miss entire Test series vs England

<p>India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest reports he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15). However, India could be boosted by the return of Mohammed Siraj, who is fit and ready to start in the bowling department.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat to likely to miss upcoming Tests</strong></h2>

<p>Having missed the opening two Tests due to “personal reasons” it was likely that Virat could return for the remaining three matches. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, Virat will probably miss the third and fourth Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi respectively while he is also unlikely to be available for the fifth Test in Dharamsala which starts on March 7.</p>

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<p>His continued absence will be a big blow for Team India as they are already without the services of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja in the batting unit. Both Jadeja and Rahul were injured after the first and second Test matches respectively. Shubman Gill is another player who has been troubled with injuries and is closely monitored by the team management.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-dc-coach-ricky-ponting-not-quite-sure-yet-about-rishabh-pants-role-in-upcoming-season-687778">IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season</a></p>

<p>Jadeja is currently in the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is in rehabilitation and expects to be fit for the Rajkot Test. Rahul is also hoping for the same with the third Test not starting for another week.</p>

<p>In a major boost for the hosts, Siraj is likely to return having stayed away from action during the Vizag Test. His return will be a major boost for the side with India already without the services of Mohammed Shami. If Siraj is included, Mukesh Kumar is the most likely player to make way for him.</p>

<p>Currently, the five-match Test series is level at 1-1 with India coming back into the series with a 106-run win in Vizag on Monday. The hosts had earlier lost a close contest in Hyderabad where they were beaten by 28 runs despite having a lead of 190 runs at the end of the first innings.</p>


India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest reports he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15).

India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest reports he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15). However, India could be boosted by the return of Mohammed Siraj, who is fit and ready to start in the bowling department. Virat to likely to miss upcoming Tests Having missed the opening two Tests due to “personal reasons” it was likely that Virat could return for the remaining three matches. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, Virat will probably miss the third and fourth Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi respectively while he is also unlikely to be available for the fifth Test in Dharamsala which starts on March 7. × His continued absence will be a big blow for Team India as they are already without the services of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja in the batting unit. Both Jadeja and Rahul were injured after the first and second Test matches respectively. Shubman Gill is another player who has been troubled with injuries and is closely monitored by the team management. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season Jadeja is currently in the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is in rehabilitation and expects to be fit for the Rajkot Test. Rahul is also hoping for the same with the third Test not starting for another week. In a major boost for the hosts, Siraj is likely to return having stayed away from action during the Vizag Test. His return will be a major boost for the side with India already without the services of Mohammed Shami. If Siraj is included, Mukesh Kumar is the most likely player to make way for him. Currently, the five-match Test series is level at 1-1 with India coming back into the series with a 106-run win in Vizag on Monday. The hosts had earlier lost a close contest in Hyderabad where they were beaten by 28 runs despite having a lead of 190 runs at the end of the first innings.

IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli to miss Rajkot, Ranchi Tests; Mohammed Siraj set for return - Report

<p>Former England Test captain Joe Root lauded Indian superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, heaping praise on the duo's experience and hopes the visitors can keep them quiet in the series. Root feels Rohit and Kohli have a big role to play within the current Indian setup and pointed out how the two can score big, hence, England need to get rid of them as early as possible. So far, Rohit has managed just 90 runs in four innings, with a best of 39, whereas Kohli missed the first two games and is expected to feature in the remainder of the series.</p>

<p>While speaking to JioCinema and Sports18, Root stated, "You mentioned two of the greats of the modern era. Of course, there’s going to be focus. We know how good they are and they are also very senior within this current Indian batting lineup. So clearly they’ve got a big role to play within this Test team. You want to make sure that you try and get on top of them early. They’ve got the ability to get big scores and we’ve been on the wrong end of that a few times, so it would be nice to try and keep them as quiet as we can throughout the series."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-dont-do-team-meeting-anymore-reveals-former-england-skipper-joe-root-687789">'We don't do team meeting anymore,' reveals former England skipper Joe Root</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit-led India drew the five-match series with a 106-run win over England in the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Both sides have several days off before they lock horns for the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. India's squad for the remainder of the series is expected to be out soon and there is a lot of hype around it, with the likely return of Kohli. Kohli missed the first two Tests due to personal reasons and there have been no updates regarding his availability for the final three games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Root has blown hot and cold with the bat in the ongoing series. He has managed scores of 29, 2, 5 and 16 in four outings but accounted for five dismissals. He will look to go big in the third Test with the series tantalisingly poised at 1-1.</p>


Former England Test captain Joe Root lauded Indian superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, heaping praise on the duo's experience and hopes the visitors can keep them quiet in the series.

Former England Test captain Joe Root lauded Indian superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, heaping praise on the duo's experience and hopes the visitors can keep them quiet in the series. Root feels Rohit and Kohli have a big role to play within the current Indian setup and pointed out how the two can score big, hence, England need to get rid of them as early as possible. So far, Rohit has managed just 90 runs in four innings, with a best of 39, whereas Kohli missed the first two games and is expected to feature in the remainder of the series. While speaking to JioCinema and Sports18, Root stated, "You mentioned two of the greats of the modern era. Of course, there’s going to be focus. We know how good they are and they are also very senior within this current Indian batting lineup. So clearly they’ve got a big role to play within this Test team. You want to make sure that you try and get on top of them early. They’ve got the ability to get big scores and we’ve been on the wrong end of that a few times, so it would be nice to try and keep them as quiet as we can throughout the series." Also read: 'We don't do team meeting anymore,' reveals former England skipper Joe Root Rohit-led India drew the five-match series with a 106-run win over England in the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Both sides have several days off before they lock horns for the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. India's squad for the remainder of the series is expected to be out soon and there is a lot of hype around it, with the likely return of Kohli. Kohli missed the first two Tests due to personal reasons and there have been no updates regarding his availability for the final three games. Meanwhile, Root has blown hot and cold with the bat in the ongoing series. He has managed scores of 29, 2, 5 and 16 in four outings but accounted for five dismissals. He will look to go big in the third Test with the series tantalisingly poised at 1-1.

Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet in the series

<p>England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15). Virat, who did not participate in the opening two matches of the Test series against England will be back in the squad for the third Test. According to McCullum, Virat is one of the finest and greatest players of his generation and will be a big addition to the Indian team.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat set to return to Team India</strong></h2>

<p>"Virat's one of the greatest players of the game has seen. No doubt it improves this squad. As we have said throughout, the depth of Indian cricket, the talent in India is immense. So we respect every opposition player that we come up against," Brendon McCullum told TalkSport.</p>

<p>"If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," he added.</p>

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<p>Virat’s return against England will be a massive boost to the Indian side as the hosts look to take a vital lead in the five-match Test series. So far against England, Virat has scored 1991 runs and needs nine more runs to reach the special club of ‘2000’.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-blast-brentford-away-to-move-within-two-points-of-top-687309">Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top</a></p>

<p>England will become Virat’s most favourite Test opponent during the Test series with Australia being the only other nation against whom he has scored more runs. Scoring 52 runs against England, Virat will leapfrog the tally of 2042 runs he has against the Aussies. Virat also has five hundreds and nine fifties against the English side with a best of 235.</p>

<p>Virat’s inclusion will be a timely boost for the Indian side as they are already without the services of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul while Shubman Gill is also nursing an injury after the Vizag Test. His inclusion alongside a fit Gill could see the exclusion of Rajat Patidar from the Playing XI for the Rajkot Test next week.</p>


England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15).

England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15). Virat, who did not participate in the opening two matches of the Test series against England will be back in the squad for the third Test. According to McCullum, Virat is one of the finest and greatest players of his generation and will be a big addition to the Indian team. Virat set to return to Team India "Virat's one of the greatest players of the game has seen. No doubt it improves this squad. As we have said throughout, the depth of Indian cricket, the talent in India is immense. So we respect every opposition player that we come up against," Brendon McCullum told TalkSport. "If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," he added. × Virat’s return against England will be a massive boost to the Indian side as the hosts look to take a vital lead in the five-match Test series. So far against England, Virat has scored 1991 runs and needs nine more runs to reach the special club of ‘2000’. ALSO READ | Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top England will become Virat’s most favourite Test opponent during the Test series with Australia being the only other nation against whom he has scored more runs. Scoring 52 runs against England, Virat will leapfrog the tally of 2042 runs he has against the Aussies. Virat also has five hundreds and nine fifties against the English side with a best of 235. Virat’s inclusion will be a timely boost for the Indian side as they are already without the services of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul while Shubman Gill is also nursing an injury after the Vizag Test. His inclusion alongside a fit Gill could see the exclusion of Rajat Patidar from the Playing XI for the Rajkot Test next week.

IND vs ENG: England coach Brendon McCullum takes note of GOAT Virat Kohli's return to Indian side

<p>The Player of the Match in the Vizag Test, Jasprit Bumrah, could be rested for the third game in Rajkot starting on February 15. Bumrah, who bagged nine wickets in the second Test, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings, helped India win the match by 106 runs. As per the latest reports, in consultation with the BCCI, the selectors might rest Bumrah for the next Test. Besides, the star batting duo of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul could return to the playing XI.</p>

<p>In this Test that lasted four days, Bumrah bowled around 32 overs across two innings, picking nine wickets. Considering the workload management, which saw Mohammed Siraj getting rested for the second Test, the selectors will want to regain some energy and return refreshed for the remaining games.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-ishan-kishan-to-decide-when-to-return-dravid-on-team-management-happily-playing-waiting-game-687228">IND vs ENG: Ishan Kishan to decide when to return, Dravid on team management happily playing waiting game</a></strong></p>

<p>With Bumrah out of contention from the next game and Mohammed Shami ruled out of the series with an ankle injury, India will play Siraj and Mukesh in the next game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who suffered a hamstring injury in the first Test in Hyderabad, is unlikely to get fit for the home Test. Kuldeep Yadav, his replacement in the second Test, will retain his place alongside Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Virat likely to return to XI</h2>

<p>Star India batter Virat Kohli, who missed the first two Tests due to personal reasons, might walk into the playing XI from the next Test onwards. With him getting included in the side and playing at his usual number four slot, the home side's confidence will be boosted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alongside Virat, keeper-batter KL Rahul will return to the side for the third Test. Now, with two players returning, India will let go of Rajat Patidar and Shreyas Iyer or KS Bharat, who hasn’t left an impact with the bat thus far.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>India level Test series</h3>

<p>Having lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs, India won the next game in Vizag by 106 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill starred with the bat, hitting 209 and 104&nbsp;respectively.</p>


The Player of the Match in the Vizag Test, Jasprit Bumrah, could be rested for the third game in Rajkot starting on February 15. Bumrah, who bagged nine wickets in the second Test, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings, helped India win the match by 106 runs.

The Player of the Match in the Vizag Test, Jasprit Bumrah, could be rested for the third game in Rajkot starting on February 15. Bumrah, who bagged nine wickets in the second Test, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings, helped India win the match by 106 runs. As per the latest reports, in consultation with the BCCI, the selectors might rest Bumrah for the next Test. Besides, the star batting duo of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul could return to the playing XI. In this Test that lasted four days, Bumrah bowled around 32 overs across two innings, picking nine wickets. Considering the workload management, which saw Mohammed Siraj getting rested for the second Test, the selectors will want to regain some energy and return refreshed for the remaining games. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Ishan Kishan to decide when to return, Dravid on team management happily playing waiting game With Bumrah out of contention from the next game and Mohammed Shami ruled out of the series with an ankle injury, India will play Siraj and Mukesh in the next game. Meanwhile, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who suffered a hamstring injury in the first Test in Hyderabad, is unlikely to get fit for the home Test. Kuldeep Yadav, his replacement in the second Test, will retain his place alongside Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel. Virat likely to return to XI Star India batter Virat Kohli, who missed the first two Tests due to personal reasons, might walk into the playing XI from the next Test onwards. With him getting included in the side and playing at his usual number four slot, the home side's confidence will be boosted. Alongside Virat, keeper-batter KL Rahul will return to the side for the third Test. Now, with two players returning, India will let go of Rajat Patidar and Shreyas Iyer or KS Bharat, who hasn’t left an impact with the bat thus far. India level Test series Having lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs, India won the next game in Vizag by 106 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill starred with the bat, hitting 209 and 104 respectively.

IND vs ENG: Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested for Rajkot Test; Virat and KL Rahul to return

<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan has made a bold claim. Ahead of the second Test between India and England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam, Vaughan stated that India missed Virat Kohli's presence in the series opener, in Hyderabad, and would not have lost the Test under his captaincy. Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Hyderabad Test by 28 runs, failing to chase down 231, despite taking a whopping 190-run lead. Ben Stokes &amp; Co. rode on Ollie Pope's 196 in their second essay and debutant Tom Hartley's 7 for 62 in India's run-chase to win the game.</p>

<p>Vaughan opened up on the Hyderabad&nbsp;loss for India on the Club Prairie Fire show. He stated, "They miss Virat Kohli's captaincy massively in Test cricket. Under Virat's captaincy that week, India wouldn't have lost the game." He added, "Rohit is a legend and a great player. But I felt he just switched off completely."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-past-his-best-india-are-due-a-series-defeat-at-home-england-great-geoffrey-boycott-685175">Rohit Sharma is past his best, India are due a series defeat at home: England great Geoffrey Boycott</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that this was the first time that India lost a Test match at home after taking a 100-plus lead in the first innings. Talking about Kohli's captaincy, no opposition team scored more than 400 runs in their second innings in a Test in India during his tenure. When Kohli was the Indian Test captain, India only lost two out of 31 Tests at home. On the other hand,&nbsp;Rohit has already lost two out of the seven Tests as captain at home. In addition, India are winless at home in three&nbsp;Tests&nbsp;at a stretch for the first time in 12 Tests.</p>

<p>Thus, Rohit's Test captaincy is under the scanner at the moment. He is not going to have it easy in the ongoing five Tests versus England, who are all charged up after the Hyderabad win. Ahead of the second Test, India were dealt&nbsp;twin blows as Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul were ruled out with injury concerns. Moreover, Kohli will only return in the third Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trailing 0-1, India have their task cut out in the upcoming Vizag Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India squad for 2nd Test vs England</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan has made a bold claim. Ahead of the second Test between India and England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam, Vaughan stated that India missed Virat Kohli's presence in the series opener, in Hyderabad, and would not have lost the Test under his captaincy.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has made a bold claim. Ahead of the second Test between India and England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam, Vaughan stated that India missed Virat Kohli's presence in the series opener, in Hyderabad, and would not have lost the Test under his captaincy. Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Hyderabad Test by 28 runs, failing to chase down 231, despite taking a whopping 190-run lead. Ben Stokes & Co. rode on Ollie Pope's 196 in their second essay and debutant Tom Hartley's 7 for 62 in India's run-chase to win the game. Vaughan opened up on the Hyderabad loss for India on the Club Prairie Fire show. He stated, "They miss Virat Kohli's captaincy massively in Test cricket. Under Virat's captaincy that week, India wouldn't have lost the game." He added, "Rohit is a legend and a great player. But I felt he just switched off completely." Also read: Rohit Sharma is past his best, India are due a series defeat at home: England great Geoffrey Boycott It is to be noted that this was the first time that India lost a Test match at home after taking a 100-plus lead in the first innings. Talking about Kohli's captaincy, no opposition team scored more than 400 runs in their second innings in a Test in India during his tenure. When Kohli was the Indian Test captain, India only lost two out of 31 Tests at home. On the other hand, Rohit has already lost two out of the seven Tests as captain at home. In addition, India are winless at home in three Tests at a stretch for the first time in 12 Tests. Thus, Rohit's Test captaincy is under the scanner at the moment. He is not going to have it easy in the ongoing five Tests versus England, who are all charged up after the Hyderabad win. Ahead of the second Test, India were dealt twin blows as Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul were ruled out with injury concerns. Moreover, Kohli will only return in the third Test. Trailing 0-1, India have their task cut out in the upcoming Vizag Test. India squad for 2nd Test vs England Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.

Under Virat Kohli's captaincy, India would not have lost Hyderabad Test to England - Vaughan's BOLD claim

<p>Dean Elgar, South Africa's former opener who recently retired from international cricket, had a stellar career in Test cricket. Ending as one of the greats of South African cricket, Elgar made a mark for his resilient approach with the bat and amassed&nbsp;5,347 runs in Tests, including 14 centuries. During his Test career, he had a fierce rivalry with many, including Indian star Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>During a recent interaction, Elgar spoke at length on how Kohli sledged him during his first tour of India. Speaking of the altercation, Elgar said on Banter with The Boys podcast, "I came in to bat and, I was actually like holding my own against Ashwin and what’s his name Jeja, Jeja, Jeja (Ravindra Jadeja) and Kohli spat at me. I said to him if you do that, I’ll **** you with this bat."</p>

<p>On being asked if Kohli understood&nbsp;the local slang, Elgar was quick to point out that he did&nbsp;because he had AB de Villiers as his teammate at the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Elgar stated, "Yes, he did because de Villiers was his teammate at RCB, so he understood. And I said if you do that, I’ll **** on this field, I’ll absolutely knock you out. And then [he said] ‘Hey **** you, **** you’ (mimicking Kohli), barking up the wrong tree. Anyways, we are in India so you got to be a little bit cautious."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-jadeja-rahul-out-of-vizag-test-with-injury-concerns-sarfaraz-khan-amongst-replacements-684801">Ind vs Eng: Jadeja, Rahul out of Vizag Test with injury concerns, Sarfaraz Khan named amongst replacements</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>De Villiers asked Kohli 'why are you spitting at my teammate?'</strong></h2>

<p>The former SA batter added, "De Villiers found out what he did, and went up to him and asked 'why are you spitting at my teammate?' Two years later in South Africa, he called me and asked&nbsp;if he could go with me for a drink after the series. He said he wanted to apologise for his action." He concluded by saying, "We drank till 3 and ya, that was my first encounter with Kohli."</p>

<p>During Elgar's farewell Test, which was the second and final Test between SA and India in Cape Town&nbsp;early this year, Kohli was seen embracing&nbsp;the Proteas opener. The two were seen&nbsp;spending time on the ground at the end of the Test match with the Indian acknowledging Elgar's run in Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, Kohli is not part of India's squad for the ongoing England Tests at home till the second Test. He is out of action due to personal reasons.</p>


Dean Elgar, South Africa's former opener who recently retired from international cricket, had a stellar career in Test cricket. Ending as one of the greats of South African cricket, Elgar made a mark for his resilient approach with the bat and amassed 5,347 runs in Tests, including 14 centuries.

Dean Elgar, South Africa's former opener who recently retired from international cricket, had a stellar career in Test cricket. Ending as one of the greats of South African cricket, Elgar made a mark for his resilient approach with the bat and amassed 5,347 runs in Tests, including 14 centuries. During his Test career, he had a fierce rivalry with many, including Indian star Virat Kohli. During a recent interaction, Elgar spoke at length on how Kohli sledged him during his first tour of India. Speaking of the altercation, Elgar said on Banter with The Boys podcast, "I came in to bat and, I was actually like holding my own against Ashwin and what’s his name Jeja, Jeja, Jeja (Ravindra Jadeja) and Kohli spat at me. I said to him if you do that, I’ll **** you with this bat." On being asked if Kohli understood the local slang, Elgar was quick to point out that he did because he had AB de Villiers as his teammate at the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Elgar stated, "Yes, he did because de Villiers was his teammate at RCB, so he understood. And I said if you do that, I’ll **** on this field, I’ll absolutely knock you out. And then [he said] ‘Hey **** you, **** you’ (mimicking Kohli), barking up the wrong tree. Anyways, we are in India so you got to be a little bit cautious." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Jadeja, Rahul out of Vizag Test with injury concerns, Sarfaraz Khan named amongst replacements De Villiers asked Kohli 'why are you spitting at my teammate?' The former SA batter added, "De Villiers found out what he did, and went up to him and asked 'why are you spitting at my teammate?' Two years later in South Africa, he called me and asked if he could go with me for a drink after the series. He said he wanted to apologise for his action." He concluded by saying, "We drank till 3 and ya, that was my first encounter with Kohli." During Elgar's farewell Test, which was the second and final Test between SA and India in Cape Town early this year, Kohli was seen embracing the Proteas opener. The two were seen spending time on the ground at the end of the Test match with the Indian acknowledging Elgar's run in Tests. At present, Kohli is not part of India's squad for the ongoing England Tests at home till the second Test. He is out of action due to personal reasons.

Virat Kohli spat at me: Dean Elgar recalls heated exchange with Indian star and how AB de Villiers intervened

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2023 as Australian skipper Pat Cummins received the top honour for Cricketer of the Year. Cummins, who led Australia to the ICC ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship (WTC) triumph, saw off challenges from close mates Travis Head and Virat Kohli. However, Virat’s consolation came in the form of ICC ODI Player of the Year where he had a special year, helping India to the runners-up crown in the World Cup held in his own backyard.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A terrific year that ended with winning the ICC Men’s <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketworldcup</a> 2023 🏆<br />
<br />
The Australia bowler and captain has claimed the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 🙌<a href="https://t.co/cv5T71ji25">https://t.co/cv5T71ji25</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1750489773133775059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Cummins named Player of the Year</strong></h2>

<p>After staging some monumental performances throughout 2023, Cummins was announced as the winner of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men's Cricketer on Thursday (Jan 25). Winning the WTC and ODI World Cup final were the highlight reels of the year for Cummins, who also defended the Ashes for Australia despite facing a resolute England team renowned for the Bazball. The achievement was made impressive after holding out for a 2-2 draw in England's own backyard during the Ashes.</p>

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<p>In 24 matches throughout the year, he scalped 59 wickets and scored 422 runs and played an important role during Australia’s important win against England in the Birmingham Test during the Ashes. He signed off the year with a 10-wicket haul against Pakistan in the Boxing Day Test.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-aryna-sabalenka-enter-womens-singles-final-with-win-over-coco-gauff-683523">Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka enters women's singles final with win over Coco Gauff</a></p>

<h2><strong>Virat Kohli wins ODI Player of the Year</strong></h2>

<p>One of the best players of his generation, Virat scored 763 runs during the 11 matches at the ODI World Cup. He was awarded Player of the Tournament as he&nbsp;helped&nbsp;India reach the final of the prestigious tournament. However, he failed to lead India to the title despite having a home advantage. On nine occasions during the World Cup, he scored fifty-plus scores and broke Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds.</p>

<p>India’s Suryakumar Yadav was named ICC T20 Player of the Year for his memorable performance with the bat. The Mumbai Indians player won the prize for the second consecutive year having also won the top honour in 2022 when India were knocked out in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup.</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2023 as Australian skipper Pat Cummins received the top honour for Cricketer of the Year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2023 as Australian skipper Pat Cummins received the top honour for Cricketer of the Year. Cummins, who led Australia to the ICC ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship (WTC) triumph, saw off challenges from close mates Travis Head and Virat Kohli. However, Virat’s consolation came in the form of ICC ODI Player of the Year where he had a special year, helping India to the runners-up crown in the World Cup held in his own backyard. A terrific year that ended with winning the ICC Men’s @cricketworldcup 2023 🏆 The Australia bowler and captain has claimed the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 🙌https://t.co/cv5T71ji25 — ICC (@ICC) January 25, 2024 × Cummins named Player of the Year After staging some monumental performances throughout 2023, Cummins was announced as the winner of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men's Cricketer on Thursday (Jan 25). Winning the WTC and ODI World Cup final were the highlight reels of the year for Cummins, who also defended the Ashes for Australia despite facing a resolute England team renowned for the Bazball. The achievement was made impressive after holding out for a 2-2 draw in England's own backyard during the Ashes. × In 24 matches throughout the year, he scalped 59 wickets and scored 422 runs and played an important role during Australia’s important win against England in the Birmingham Test during the Ashes. He signed off the year with a 10-wicket haul against Pakistan in the Boxing Day Test. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka enters women's singles final with win over Coco Gauff Virat Kohli wins ODI Player of the Year One of the best players of his generation, Virat scored 763 runs during the 11 matches at the ODI World Cup. He was awarded Player of the Tournament as he helped India reach the final of the prestigious tournament. However, he failed to lead India to the title despite having a home advantage. On nine occasions during the World Cup, he scored fifty-plus scores and broke Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds. India’s Suryakumar Yadav was named ICC T20 Player of the Year for his memorable performance with the bat. The Mumbai Indians player won the prize for the second consecutive year having also won the top honour in 2022 when India were knocked out in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup.

Pat Cummins named Cricketer of the Year for 2023, Virat Kohli earns ODI Player of the Year accolade

<p>The Indian team made a brilliant start on the opening day of the Hyderabad Test after they established an iron grip with a good start in the first innings. Restricting England to 246, India at Stumps were 119/1 with Yashasvi Jaiswal firing on all cylinders. Amid the batting and bowling display, a&nbsp;cricket fan became the center of attraction after he was seen invading the pitch at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on Thursday (Jan 25).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lucky Fan Meeted Rohit 🥲🥹<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://t.co/7IN2yYsRmH">pic.twitter.com/7IN2yYsRmH</a></p>
— Kiran (@KIRANPSPK45) <a href="https://twitter.com/KIRANPSPK45/status/1750453769605984560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Fan touches Rohit’s feet</strong></h2>

<p>In the closing session of Day 1 of the Hyderabad Test, a fan wearing Virat Kohli&nbsp;jersey was seen storming onto the pitch. He made his way to the center where he was seen touching Indian skipper Rohit Sharma's&nbsp;feet. Rohit was left stunned but did not react before the security came and took the invader off the filed. While the Indian skipper was left stunned by the gesture, the fans welcomed the love shown towards Rohit.</p>

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<p>It is worth noting that, Rohit played for the now defunct&nbsp;Deccan Chargers during his early Indian Premier League (IPL) years. Deccan Chargers played their home matches in Hyderabad and won the IPL 2009 with Rohit being a key member of the squad.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-aryna-sabalenka-enter-womens-singles-final-with-win-over-coco-gauff-683523">Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka enters women's singles final with win over Coco Gauff</a></p>

<h2><strong>What happened on Day 1?</strong></h2>

<p>Having decided to bat first, England were bowled out&nbsp;for 246 with skipper Ben Stokes top-scoring with 70 runs. Despite a good start to their innings through Ben Duckett (35) and Zak Crawley (20), England lost wickets at regular intervals.</p>

<p>Joe Root (29) and Jonny Bairstow (37) steadied the ship for England but Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin were in top form after they scalped three wickets each to break the backbone of England’s middle-order batting. Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah also ended with two wickets each before the visitors were bowled out.</p>

<p>In response, India closed the day at 119/1 with Jasiwal unbeaten on 76 and Shubman Gill on 14. Rohit was dismissed for 24 in the 13th over by&nbsp;Jack Leach.</p>


The Indian team made a brilliant start on the opening day of the Hyderabad Test after they established an iron grip with a good start in the first innings. Restricting England to 246, India at Stumps were 119/1 with Yashasvi Jaiswal firing on all cylinders.

The Indian team made a brilliant start on the opening day of the Hyderabad Test after they established an iron grip with a good start in the first innings. Restricting England to 246, India at Stumps were 119/1 with Yashasvi Jaiswal firing on all cylinders. Amid the batting and bowling display, a cricket fan became the center of attraction after he was seen invading the pitch at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on Thursday (Jan 25). Lucky Fan Meeted Rohit 🥲🥹#INDvENG #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/7IN2yYsRmH — Kiran (@KIRANPSPK45) January 25, 2024 × Fan touches Rohit’s feet In the closing session of Day 1 of the Hyderabad Test, a fan wearing Virat Kohli jersey was seen storming onto the pitch. He made his way to the center where he was seen touching Indian skipper Rohit Sharma's feet. Rohit was left stunned but did not react before the security came and took the invader off the filed. While the Indian skipper was left stunned by the gesture, the fans welcomed the love shown towards Rohit. × It is worth noting that, Rohit played for the now defunct Deccan Chargers during his early Indian Premier League (IPL) years. Deccan Chargers played their home matches in Hyderabad and won the IPL 2009 with Rohit being a key member of the squad. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka enters women's singles final with win over Coco Gauff What happened on Day 1? Having decided to bat first, England were bowled out for 246 with skipper Ben Stokes top-scoring with 70 runs. Despite a good start to their innings through Ben Duckett (35) and Zak Crawley (20), England lost wickets at regular intervals. Joe Root (29) and Jonny Bairstow (37) steadied the ship for England but Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin were in top form after they scalped three wickets each to break the backbone of England’s middle-order batting. Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah also ended with two wickets each before the visitors were bowled out. In response, India closed the day at 119/1 with Jasiwal unbeaten on 76 and Shubman Gill on 14. Rohit was dismissed for 24 in the 13th over by Jack Leach.

IND vs ENG: Pitch invader wearing Virat Kohli jersey touches Rohit's feet on Day 1 of first Test - WATCH

<p>On Monday (Jan 22), Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two Tests between India and England, which gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday). The former Indian captain opted out due to personal reasons and will supposedly be back in the Indian squad for the final three games. Now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named Rajat Patidar, Kohli's IPL teammate, as the star batter's replacement.</p>

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<p>Patidar, who plays for Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has been in sublime&nbsp;form of late. He scored&nbsp;151 in the unofficial Test against England Lions, in Ahmedabad, last week and&nbsp;also ended with an impressive 111 in the two-day warm-up fixture versus the Lions. During India's tour of South Africa in December 2023, he made his ODI debut as well. While he opened the innings on his ODI debut, he will bat in the middle-order if he gets a chance in the England Tests.</p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-odi-team-of-the-year-revealed-6-indians-make-the-cut-despite-world-cup-loss-682882">ICC ODI Team of the Year revealed: 6 Indians make the cut despite World Cup loss</a></strong></p>

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<p>Patidar's selection further solidifies the fact that the BCCI selection committee has moved past senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan's wait to make it to the national team continues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first Test between India and England will kick off on Thursday at the iconic Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Ben Stokes-led England have a herculean task to stop the Rohit Sharma-led hosts, who have not lost a home Test series since their 2-1 loss to the English side in 2012/13.&nbsp;</p>


On Monday (Jan 22), Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two Tests between India and England, which gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday). The former Indian captain opted out due to personal reasons and will supposedly be back in the Indian squad for the final three games.

On Monday (Jan 22), Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two Tests between India and England, which gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday). The former Indian captain opted out due to personal reasons and will supposedly be back in the Indian squad for the final three games. Now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named Rajat Patidar, Kohli's IPL teammate, as the star batter's replacement. Patidar, who plays for Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has been in sublime form of late. He scored 151 in the unofficial Test against England Lions, in Ahmedabad, last week and also ended with an impressive 111 in the two-day warm-up fixture versus the Lions. During India's tour of South Africa in December 2023, he made his ODI debut as well. While he opened the innings on his ODI debut, he will bat in the middle-order if he gets a chance in the England Tests. Also read: ICC ODI Team of the Year revealed: 6 Indians make the cut despite World Cup loss × Patidar's selection further solidifies the fact that the BCCI selection committee has moved past senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan's wait to make it to the national team continues. The first Test between India and England will kick off on Thursday at the iconic Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Ben Stokes-led England have a herculean task to stop the Rohit Sharma-led hosts, who have not lost a home Test series since their 2-1 loss to the English side in 2012/13.

India vs England: Virat Kohli's RCB teammate Rajat Patidar replaces him for first two Tests

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (Jan 23) released the ODI Team of the Year, which features six Indian players despite the team losing the World Cup against Australia a few months back. The team is captained by Rohit Sharma and features Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill as well as the pace duo of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj and chinaman Kuldeep Yadav.</p>

<p>Sharma amassed 1255 runs at an average of 52 in 2023 and led India brilliantly to the final of the ultimate tournament. His opening partner, Gill, finished the year sa the highest run-getter, smashing 1584 runs that included a double hundred against New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli, India's mainstay in the format for several years, had another consistent run, scoring 1377 runs which included the Player of the Tournament award in the World Cup.</p>

<p>As for the bowlers, Shami was the standout, performing strongly in the quadrennial tournament and nearly pushing India over the victory shores.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from the Indian players, the list gives space to World Cup winners with Australia - Travis Head and Adam Zampa. Both players were pivotal in helping Australia win its sixth World Cup title.</p>

<p>While Head joined the team midway into the tournament, he smashed a half-century and claimed two wickets in a Player of the Match performance in the World Cup semi-final victory over South Africa and then exceeded that effort when he scored an unbelievable 137 against India in the decider to help Australia lift the trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Zampa, the lone specialist spinner in the Australian team managed to exploit the subcontinent conditions to full effect and finished the World Cup as the second-highest wicket-taker.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-t20i-of-year-2023-four-indians-make-cut-with-suryakumar-as-skipper-no-players-from-australia-pakistan-682557"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;ICC T20I Team of Year 2023: Four Indians in squad with Suryakumar as skipper; no players from Aus, Pak</strong></a></p>

<p>Other notable names include New Zealand middle-order batter Daryl Mitchell, wicketkeeper batter Heinrich Klassen and Marco Jansen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitchell was the standout for New Zealand throughout the year, accumulating&nbsp;five centuries and 1204 runs at an imposing average of 52.34 and an even more eye-catching strike rate just north of 100.</p>

<h2><strong>Men’s ODI Team of the Year:</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (Capt, Ind), Shubman Gill (Ind), Travis Head (Aus), Virat Kohli (Ind), Daryl Mitchell (NZ), Heinrich Klaasen (WK, SA), Marco Jansen (SA), Adam Zampa (Aus), Mohammed Siraj (Ind), Kuldeep Yadav (Ind), Mohammed Shami (Ind)</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (Jan 23) released the ODI Team of the Year, which features six Indian players despite the team losing the World Cup against Australia a few months back.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (Jan 23) released the ODI Team of the Year, which features six Indian players despite the team losing the World Cup against Australia a few months back. The team is captained by Rohit Sharma and features Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill as well as the pace duo of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj and chinaman Kuldeep Yadav. Sharma amassed 1255 runs at an average of 52 in 2023 and led India brilliantly to the final of the ultimate tournament. His opening partner, Gill, finished the year sa the highest run-getter, smashing 1584 runs that included a double hundred against New Zealand. Kohli, India's mainstay in the format for several years, had another consistent run, scoring 1377 runs which included the Player of the Tournament award in the World Cup. As for the bowlers, Shami was the standout, performing strongly in the quadrennial tournament and nearly pushing India over the victory shores. Apart from the Indian players, the list gives space to World Cup winners with Australia - Travis Head and Adam Zampa. Both players were pivotal in helping Australia win its sixth World Cup title. While Head joined the team midway into the tournament, he smashed a half-century and claimed two wickets in a Player of the Match performance in the World Cup semi-final victory over South Africa and then exceeded that effort when he scored an unbelievable 137 against India in the decider to help Australia lift the trophy. Meanwhile, Zampa, the lone specialist spinner in the Australian team managed to exploit the subcontinent conditions to full effect and finished the World Cup as the second-highest wicket-taker. Also read | ICC T20I Team of Year 2023: Four Indians in squad with Suryakumar as skipper; no players from Aus, Pak Other notable names include New Zealand middle-order batter Daryl Mitchell, wicketkeeper batter Heinrich Klassen and Marco Jansen. Mitchell was the standout for New Zealand throughout the year, accumulating five centuries and 1204 runs at an imposing average of 52.34 and an even more eye-catching strike rate just north of 100. Men’s ODI Team of the Year: Rohit Sharma (Capt, Ind), Shubman Gill (Ind), Travis Head (Aus), Virat Kohli (Ind), Daryl Mitchell (NZ), Heinrich Klaasen (WK, SA), Marco Jansen (SA), Adam Zampa (Aus), Mohammed Siraj (Ind), Kuldeep Yadav (Ind), Mohammed Shami (Ind) (With inputs from agencies)

ICC ODI Team of the Year revealed: 6 Indians make the cut despite World Cup loss

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<p>Indian men's cricket team superstar Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma were extended the invitation to the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22). While some reports claimed that Kohli did not attend the event, some viral videos and images on social media suggested that Kohli had indeed made the trip to the holy city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A picture showing Kohli in a black kurta, wearing glasses was widely shared with claims that the former Indian captain was present at the Ram Janambhoomi Mandir. However, the picture being shared is not from the occasion.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fake <a href="https://t.co/1UTA2LXVpC">https://t.co/1UTA2LXVpC</a></p>
— Akash Yadav (@Akash_Yadav_18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Akash_Yadav_18/status/1749676928544710768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli visited his friend Rahul Kanal for Ganesh Chaturthi a few months ago and a picture clicked there is now being circulated, mostly by Kohli fan clubs. A few popular cricket aggregators on X (formerly known as Twitter) also shared videos claiming that Kohli's car convoy had reached Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Virat Kohli's convoy in Ayodhya.<br />
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- The 🐐 has reached Ram Janmabhoomi. <a href="https://t.co/HwkmAA2388">pic.twitter.com/HwkmAA2388</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1749109955821703575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from the fake media content, a Kohli impersonator was also spotted taking photos with unsuspecting people during the event. The video of the incident also spread like wildfire all over social media.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Virat Kohli's doppelganger in Ayodhya.<a href="https://t.co/DoQteQhoS7">pic.twitter.com/DoQteQhoS7</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1749456254093918258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Kohli missed the event other cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Ravindra Jadeja and Venkatesh Prasad among others attended the ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kohli to miss first two Tests&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kohli, who is often spotted visiting temples and gurus missed the event, possibly due to personal reasons that also prompted him to pull out of the first two Tests against England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI in a release on Monday informed about Kohli's withdrawal from the series. The first Test of the five-match series will be played in Hyderabad from January 25</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons," BCCI said in the official statement.</p>

<p>"Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasised that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention," it added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-virat-kohli-withdraws-from-first-two-tests-against-england-682452" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | India batter Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England</strong></a></p>

<p>The board also advised against speculating on the reasons behind Kohli's withdrawal. A replacement will be named in due course, confirmed the BCCI.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian men's cricket team superstar Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma were extended the invitation to the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22).

Indian men's cricket team superstar Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma were extended the invitation to the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday (Jan 22). While some reports claimed that Kohli did not attend the event, some viral videos and images on social media suggested that Kohli had indeed made the trip to the holy city. A picture showing Kohli in a black kurta, wearing glasses was widely shared with claims that the former Indian captain was present at the Ram Janambhoomi Mandir. However, the picture being shared is not from the occasion. Fake https://t.co/1UTA2LXVpC — Akash Yadav (@Akash_Yadav_18) January 23, 2024 × Kohli visited his friend Rahul Kanal for Ganesh Chaturthi a few months ago and a picture clicked there is now being circulated, mostly by Kohli fan clubs. A few popular cricket aggregators on X (formerly known as Twitter) also shared videos claiming that Kohli's car convoy had reached Ayodhya. Virat Kohli's convoy in Ayodhya. - The 🐐 has reached Ram Janmabhoomi. pic.twitter.com/HwkmAA2388 — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 21, 2024 × Apart from the fake media content, a Kohli impersonator was also spotted taking photos with unsuspecting people during the event. The video of the incident also spread like wildfire all over social media. Virat Kohli's doppelganger in Ayodhya.pic.twitter.com/DoQteQhoS7 — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 22, 2024 × While Kohli missed the event other cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Ravindra Jadeja and Venkatesh Prasad among others attended the ceremony. Kohli to miss first two Tests Kohli, who is often spotted visiting temples and gurus missed the event, possibly due to personal reasons that also prompted him to pull out of the first two Tests against England. BCCI in a release on Monday informed about Kohli's withdrawal from the series. The first Test of the five-match series will be played in Hyderabad from January 25 "Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons," BCCI said in the official statement. "Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasised that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention," it added. Also read | India batter Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England The board also advised against speculating on the reasons behind Kohli's withdrawal. A replacement will be named in due course, confirmed the BCCI. (With inputs from agencies)

Fact check: Did Virat Kohli attend Ram Mandir consecration ceremony?

<p>India batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests of upcoming home series against England, announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release on Monday (Jan 22). The board has cited personal reasons for Kohli's withdrawal from the series. The first Test of the five-Test series will be played in Hyderabad from January 25 and Kohli, who was named in the squad for the first two Tests, will not be playing in the first two.</p>

<p>"Mr. Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming IDFC First Bank Test series against England, citing personal reasons," read the statement by board.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inzamam-ul-haq-blasts-former-pcb-chief-zaka-ashraf-for-pakistans-2023-odi-world-cup-debacle-682442">Inzamam-ul-Haq blasts former PCB chief Zaka Ashraf for Pakistan's 2023 ODI World Cup debacle</a></p>

<p>"Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasised that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention."</p>

<p>"The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management extended support to the star batter. We are confident of&nbsp;the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series," it added.</p>

<p>The board also advised against speculating the reasons behind Kohli's withdrawal and said: "The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli's privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series."</p>

<p>A replacement will be named in due course, confirmed the BCCI.</p>

<p>On January 21, England batter Harry Brook had also pulled out of the tour due to personal reasons. The England Cricket Board (ECB) named Dan Lawrence as his replacement in the side.</p>


India batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests of upcoming home series against England, announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release on Monday (Jan 22).

India batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests of upcoming home series against England, announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a release on Monday (Jan 22). The board has cited personal reasons for Kohli's withdrawal from the series. The first Test of the five-Test series will be played in Hyderabad from January 25 and Kohli, who was named in the squad for the first two Tests, will not be playing in the first two. "Mr. Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming IDFC First Bank Test series against England, citing personal reasons," read the statement by board. Also Read: Inzamam-ul-Haq blasts former PCB chief Zaka Ashraf for Pakistan's 2023 ODI World Cup debacle "Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasised that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention." "The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management extended support to the star batter. We are confident of the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series," it added. The board also advised against speculating the reasons behind Kohli's withdrawal and said: "The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli's privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series." A replacement will be named in due course, confirmed the BCCI. On January 21, England batter Harry Brook had also pulled out of the tour due to personal reasons. The England Cricket Board (ECB) named Dan Lawrence as his replacement in the side.

India batter Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England

<p>In a display of unity and devotion, India's top sporting personalities&nbsp;have descended upon Ayodhya&nbsp;in large numbers&nbsp;to take part in the much-anticipated Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir on Monday (Jan 22). The star-studded guest list includes various sporting icons from the country such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli,Anil Kumble, Venkatesh Prasad and Neeraj Chopra.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Former cricketer <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> arrives in Ayodhya to attend <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamMandirPranPratishtha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamMandirPranPratishtha</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AyodhyaRamMandir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AyodhyaRamMandir</a> <a href="https://t.co/tsCzVABlmU">pic.twitter.com/tsCzVABlmU</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1749283601441497267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sachin Tendulkar has reached Ayodhya🧡<br />
Those who are saying that Virat has arrived, I know this but no proper video has come so there is doubt<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SachinTendulkar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SachinTendulkar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AyodhaRamMandir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AyodhaRamMandir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/viratkohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#viratkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/hMim71e9ew">pic.twitter.com/hMim71e9ew</a></p>
— 𝙒𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙣🥂 (@wrogn_edits) <a href="https://twitter.com/wrogn_edits/status/1749287069506273455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli has reached Ayodhya after the Practice Session 😍❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/viratkohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#viratkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AyodhaRamMandir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AyodhaRamMandir</a> <a href="https://t.co/adQQyhtfy5">pic.twitter.com/adQQyhtfy5</a></p>
— 𝙒𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙣🥂 (@wrogn_edits) <a href="https://twitter.com/wrogn_edits/status/1749113687250731336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mithali Raj at the Ram Temple ahead of the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Rama. <a href="https://t.co/YJtFs5vfww">pic.twitter.com/YJtFs5vfww</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1749297333496664544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Say it , Sing it , Roar it<br />
Jai Shree Ram 🙏🏼 <a href="https://t.co/jY75bVyQT2">pic.twitter.com/jY75bVyQT2</a></p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1749287317884584128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ram-mandir-consecration-ceremony-ranbir-kapoor-alia-bhatt-and-rohit-shetty-jet-off-to-ayodhya-682198">Ram Mandir Consecration ceremony: Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Amitabh Bachchan &amp; more celebs arrive in Ayodhya</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh | Veteran cricketer Anil Kumble says, "It is a wonderful occasion, a very divine occasion. Blessed to be a part of this. It's very historic. Looking forward to seeking blessings from Ram Lalla..." <a href="https://t.co/zKodiqk1bG">pic.twitter.com/zKodiqk1bG</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1749297818052038888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Other sports personalities such as Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Harmanpreet Kaur, Saina Nehwal, PT Usha, PV Sindhu, Pullela Gopichand, Viswanathan Anand, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Baichung Bhutia, etc. have also been invited and expected to be part of the event.</p>

<p>The Ram Mandir&nbsp;consecration ceremony&nbsp;has been a huge talking point nationwide. It&nbsp;is not only being attended by famous sports personalities but by many big names from various fields. The likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Vicky Kaushal, Katrina Kaif and Ayushman Khurana have also arrived in Ayodhya.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Ram temple&nbsp;consecration ceremony on Monday&nbsp;in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya will take place&nbsp;exactly four years after the landmark judgement from the Supreme Court of India. The mega event will comprise the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla (idol of infant Lord Ram), with the rituals led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi (who has already arrived at the venue).</p>

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<p>The Ram temple has been designed in the traditional Nagara style. The dimensions of the temple is 380 feet in length, 250 feet wide and 161 feet tall. Chandrakant Sompura and his son Ashish designed&nbsp;the new structure ahead of the ceremony.</p>


In a display of unity and devotion, India's top sporting personalities have descended upon Ayodhya in large numbers to take part in the much-anticipated Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir on Monday (Jan 22).

In a display of unity and devotion, India's top sporting personalities have descended upon Ayodhya in large numbers to take part in the much-anticipated Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir on Monday (Jan 22). The star-studded guest list includes various sporting icons from the country such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli,Anil Kumble, Venkatesh Prasad and Neeraj Chopra. VIDEO | Former cricketer @sachin_rt arrives in Ayodhya to attend #RamMandirPranPratishtha.#AyodhyaRamMandir pic.twitter.com/tsCzVABlmU — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 22, 2024 × Sachin Tendulkar has reached Ayodhya🧡 Those who are saying that Virat has arrived, I know this but no proper video has come so there is doubt#SachinTendulkar #AyodhaRamMandir #viratkohli pic.twitter.com/hMim71e9ew — 𝙒𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙣🥂 (@wrogn_edits) January 22, 2024 × Virat Kohli has reached Ayodhya after the Practice Session 😍❤️#viratkohli #AyodhaRamMandir pic.twitter.com/adQQyhtfy5 — 𝙒𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙣🥂 (@wrogn_edits) January 21, 2024 × Mithali Raj at the Ram Temple ahead of the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Rama. pic.twitter.com/YJtFs5vfww — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 22, 2024 × Say it , Sing it , Roar it Jai Shree Ram 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/jY75bVyQT2 — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) January 22, 2024 × Also read: Ram Mandir Consecration ceremony: Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Amitabh Bachchan & more celebs arrive in Ayodhya #WATCH | Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh | Veteran cricketer Anil Kumble says, "It is a wonderful occasion, a very divine occasion. Blessed to be a part of this. It's very historic. Looking forward to seeking blessings from Ram Lalla..." pic.twitter.com/zKodiqk1bG — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024 × Other sports personalities such as Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Harmanpreet Kaur, Saina Nehwal, PT Usha, PV Sindhu, Pullela Gopichand, Viswanathan Anand, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Baichung Bhutia, etc. have also been invited and expected to be part of the event. The Ram Mandir consecration ceremony has been a huge talking point nationwide. It is not only being attended by famous sports personalities but by many big names from various fields. The likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Vicky Kaushal, Katrina Kaif and Ayushman Khurana have also arrived in Ayodhya. It is to be noted that Ram temple consecration ceremony on Monday in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya will take place exactly four years after the landmark judgement from the Supreme Court of India. The mega event will comprise the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla (idol of infant Lord Ram), with the rituals led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi (who has already arrived at the venue). × The Ram temple has been designed in the traditional Nagara style. The dimensions of the temple is 380 feet in length, 250 feet wide and 161 feet tall. Chandrakant Sompura and his son Ashish designed the new structure ahead of the ceremony.

Ram Mandir ceremony: Tendulkar, Kumble and other sports personalities attend consecration

<p>Australia's retired Test and ODI opener David Warner is set to achieve a rare feat when he plays in the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. The left-hand opener, once named in playing XI during the West Indies T20Is, will become only the third cricketer to play 100 or more games in all three formats (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) for his country. The other two players to achieve the feat are India's Virat Kohli and New Zealand's Ross Taylor.</p>

<p>Warner has played 99 T20Is and is one short of making it 100. He retired after 112 Tests and 161 ODIs, scoring 8,786 and 6,932 runs&nbsp;respectively. The southpaw has 2,894 runs in T20Is so far. Among the other two players, Kohli still plays all the formats and has 131 Tests, 292 ODIs and 117 T20Is under his belt.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-england-skipper-kevin-pietersen-shares-advice-on-playing-indian-spinner-in-the-upcoming-test-series-681819">Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shares advice on playing Indian spinners in the upcoming Test series</a></p>

<p>Taylor, however, has retired from international cricket in 2022 after playing 112 Tests, 236 ODIs and 102 T20Is for his country.</p>

<p>Warner hung up his boots in ODIs after the 2023 ODI World Cup and earlier this month in Tests after the home Test series against Pakistan. He, however, expressed the desire to play and win 'another World Cup' with Australia at the time of Test retirement.</p>

<p>Australia coach Andrew McDonald has also said that Warner will be named in the squad for the upcoming T20Is against West Indies which starts February 9 and probably against New Zealand after that as well. His selection would definitely be a seal on his spot for the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in June this year in the USA and West Indies.</p>

<p>After his retirement from Tests, Warner has played two games in Australia's domestic T20 tournament Big Bash League (BBL) for Sydney Thunder. He currently is in the UAE to take part in the ILT20 for Dubai Capitals.</p>


Australia's retired Test and ODI opener David Warner is set to achieve a rare feat when he plays in the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. The left-hand opener, once named in playing XI during the West Indies T20Is, will become only the third cricketer to play 100 or more games in all three formats (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) for his country.

Australia's retired Test and ODI opener David Warner is set to achieve a rare feat when he plays in the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. The left-hand opener, once named in playing XI during the West Indies T20Is, will become only the third cricketer to play 100 or more games in all three formats (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) for his country. The other two players to achieve the feat are India's Virat Kohli and New Zealand's Ross Taylor. Warner has played 99 T20Is and is one short of making it 100. He retired after 112 Tests and 161 ODIs, scoring 8,786 and 6,932 runs respectively. The southpaw has 2,894 runs in T20Is so far. Among the other two players, Kohli still plays all the formats and has 131 Tests, 292 ODIs and 117 T20Is under his belt. Also Read: Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shares advice on playing Indian spinners in the upcoming Test series Taylor, however, has retired from international cricket in 2022 after playing 112 Tests, 236 ODIs and 102 T20Is for his country. Warner hung up his boots in ODIs after the 2023 ODI World Cup and earlier this month in Tests after the home Test series against Pakistan. He, however, expressed the desire to play and win 'another World Cup' with Australia at the time of Test retirement. Australia coach Andrew McDonald has also said that Warner will be named in the squad for the upcoming T20Is against West Indies which starts February 9 and probably against New Zealand after that as well. His selection would definitely be a seal on his spot for the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in June this year in the USA and West Indies. After his retirement from Tests, Warner has played two games in Australia's domestic T20 tournament Big Bash League (BBL) for Sydney Thunder. He currently is in the UAE to take part in the ILT20 for Dubai Capitals.

Australia T20I batter David Warner set to join Virat Kohli and Ross Taylor in unique list

<p>Rohit Sharma became the joint-most successful T20I captain, along with Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Indian legend MS Dhoni, after India won the third and final match versus the Afghans on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru. Rohit now has 42 wins as T20I captain after starring in India's thrilling double Super Over win, where he slammed&nbsp;a majestic 121*.</p>

<p>After the Afghanistan T20Is, former cricketer Rohan Gavaskar hailed Rohit. Rohan stated,&nbsp; while speaking on Cricbuzz, that "if Rohit&nbsp;has a higher winning percentage than MS and Virat, that tells you what a good captain he is".</p>

<p>He said, "This is the format where your captaincy skills are really tested."</p>

<p>Rohit has a 75.92 win percentage in T20Is, compared to Dhoni's&nbsp;56.94 and Kohli's 60.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-rues-lack-of-international-cricket-before-t20-wc-as-problem-of-plenty-for-keepers-hogs-limelight-681456">Dravid rues lack of international cricket before T20 WC as ‘problem of plenty’ for keepers hogs limelight</a></strong></p>

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<p>Rohan further&nbsp;stated on Hitman's knock, "What I really liked about this innings is that, generally you say in a T20I game now - the template is to go bang bang bang from the word go. And that is the template that is set. But both Rohit and Rinku used their cricketing intelligence at 22-4 and said no. We can get runs later on but let's just give ourselves a little bit of time<i>.</i>"</p>

<p>"If we lose a wicket or two here, we'll be 70 all out. We're 90 all out. So let's give ourselves a little bit of time, we have the ability to make up for it as the innings progresses. And they did, last five overs - 100. But this is a one-off. Normally, you want your teams to play in a different template. But to have that cricketing intelligence and the skillset to adapt and adjust and change your game, to what needs to be done, that is key,"&nbsp;Gavaskar junior added.</p>

<p>Talking about the final T20I, India opted to bat first and were tottering at 22-4 before an impressive 190-run fifth-wicket stand between Rohit (121*) and Rinku Singh (unbeaten 69) took India to 212/4. In reply, Afghanistan rode on openers Rahmatullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran's 50 apiece before Gulbadin Naib's 55* and Mohammed Nabi's 16-ball 34* took them to 212/6. After even the first Super Over led to no result, the second Super Over saw India win to make Rohit the joint-most successful captain in the format.</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will play their next T20I during the forthcoming T20 World Cup&nbsp;in West Indies and USA&nbsp;in June.</p>


Rohit Sharma became the joint-most successful T20I captain, along with Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Indian legend MS Dhoni, after India won the third and final match versus the Afghans on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru.

Rohit Sharma became the joint-most successful T20I captain, along with Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Indian legend MS Dhoni, after India won the third and final match versus the Afghans on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru. Rohit now has 42 wins as T20I captain after starring in India's thrilling double Super Over win, where he slammed a majestic 121*. After the Afghanistan T20Is, former cricketer Rohan Gavaskar hailed Rohit. Rohan stated, while speaking on Cricbuzz, that "if Rohit has a higher winning percentage than MS and Virat, that tells you what a good captain he is". He said, "This is the format where your captaincy skills are really tested." Rohit has a 75.92 win percentage in T20Is, compared to Dhoni's 56.94 and Kohli's 60. Also read: Dravid rues lack of international cricket before T20 WC as ‘problem of plenty’ for keepers hogs limelight × Rohan further stated on Hitman's knock, "What I really liked about this innings is that, generally you say in a T20I game now - the template is to go bang bang bang from the word go. And that is the template that is set. But both Rohit and Rinku used their cricketing intelligence at 22-4 and said no. We can get runs later on but let's just give ourselves a little bit of time." "If we lose a wicket or two here, we'll be 70 all out. We're 90 all out. So let's give ourselves a little bit of time, we have the ability to make up for it as the innings progresses. And they did, last five overs - 100. But this is a one-off. Normally, you want your teams to play in a different template. But to have that cricketing intelligence and the skillset to adapt and adjust and change your game, to what needs to be done, that is key," Gavaskar junior added. Talking about the final T20I, India opted to bat first and were tottering at 22-4 before an impressive 190-run fifth-wicket stand between Rohit (121*) and Rinku Singh (unbeaten 69) took India to 212/4. In reply, Afghanistan rode on openers Rahmatullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran's 50 apiece before Gulbadin Naib's 55* and Mohammed Nabi's 16-ball 34* took them to 212/6. After even the first Super Over led to no result, the second Super Over saw India win to make Rohit the joint-most successful captain in the format. Rohit-led India will play their next T20I during the forthcoming T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA in June.

Ind vs Afg: 'If he has higher win percentage than Dhoni & Kohli, then...' - Gavaskar hails captain Rohit

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma scored a record fifth hundred in the T20 internationals during the third T20I in Bengaluru on January 17 vs Afghanistan. This is Rohit's fifth hundred in T20Is - the most for any batter. Rohit reached his hundred in the 19th over and finished unbeaten on 121 as India scored 212/4 in 20 overs.</p>

<p>Earlier, Afghanistan stunned India with four quick wickets for four runs in inside the first five overs. The wickets involved star batter Virat Kohli, last two games' hero Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Among the four wickets, Kohli and Samson fell for first-ball ducks while Dube managed just one run and Jaiswal went back after scoring four runs. This was also Kohli's first golden duck in T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pakistan-skipper-shaheen-afridi-praises-babar-azam-despite-losing-t20i-series-against-new-zealand-680903">Pakistan skipper Shaheen Afridi praises Babar Azam despite losing T20I series against New Zealand</a></p>

<p>For Afghanistan, Fareed Ahmed was the destroyer-in-chief, accounting for three of four wickets. Ahmed first dismissed Jaiswal on the third ball of&nbsp;the third over before sending back Kohli on the very next ball. Azmatullah Omarzai then joined the party with the wicket of Dube on the last ball of the next over as India lost the third wicket with just 21 runs on the board.</p>

<p>Ahmed came back in the next over and sent back Samson on the third ball. The pacer's figures read 3/10 in three overs by the time he was taken out of the attack.</p>

<p>Skipper Rohit Sharma, however, continued to bat at the other end. Rinku Singh came to bat at number six and stemmed the fall of wickets. The duo took India past 50 in 8.4 overs to bring some stability to the innings which was falling apart quickly. Rohit and Rinku also brought up their fifty partnership in 41 balls and took India past 100 in the 14 over without the loss of anymore wickets.</p>

<p>In between, Rohit also reached his 30th T20I fifty with a four in the 13th over. The pair crossed the 100-run partnership in the 16th over with Rinku contributing 36 runs to it and finished unbeaten on 69 off just 39 balls. In the last two overs, India scored 58 runs as Afghanistan could not sustain the pressure.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma scored a record fifth hundred in the T20 internationals during the third T20I in Bengaluru on January 17 vs Afghanistan. This is Rohit's fifth hundred in T20Is - the most for any batter.

India skipper Rohit Sharma scored a record fifth hundred in the T20 internationals during the third T20I in Bengaluru on January 17 vs Afghanistan. This is Rohit's fifth hundred in T20Is - the most for any batter. Rohit reached his hundred in the 19th over and finished unbeaten on 121 as India scored 212/4 in 20 overs. Earlier, Afghanistan stunned India with four quick wickets for four runs in inside the first five overs. The wickets involved star batter Virat Kohli, last two games' hero Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Among the four wickets, Kohli and Samson fell for first-ball ducks while Dube managed just one run and Jaiswal went back after scoring four runs. This was also Kohli's first golden duck in T20Is. Also Read: Pakistan skipper Shaheen Afridi praises Babar Azam despite losing T20I series against New Zealand For Afghanistan, Fareed Ahmed was the destroyer-in-chief, accounting for three of four wickets. Ahmed first dismissed Jaiswal on the third ball of the third over before sending back Kohli on the very next ball. Azmatullah Omarzai then joined the party with the wicket of Dube on the last ball of the next over as India lost the third wicket with just 21 runs on the board. Ahmed came back in the next over and sent back Samson on the third ball. The pacer's figures read 3/10 in three overs by the time he was taken out of the attack. Skipper Rohit Sharma, however, continued to bat at the other end. Rinku Singh came to bat at number six and stemmed the fall of wickets. The duo took India past 50 in 8.4 overs to bring some stability to the innings which was falling apart quickly. Rohit and Rinku also brought up their fifty partnership in 41 balls and took India past 100 in the 14 over without the loss of anymore wickets. In between, Rohit also reached his 30th T20I fifty with a four in the 13th over. The pair crossed the 100-run partnership in the 16th over with Rinku contributing 36 runs to it and finished unbeaten on 69 off just 39 balls. In the last two overs, India scored 58 runs as Afghanistan could not sustain the pressure.

Rohit hits record fifth hundred after Afghanistan stun India with four wickets for four runs in third T20I

<p>Team India is set to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20 to&nbsp;undergo a four-day practice session before the five-match Test series opener versus England, which kicks off on Jan 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The series holds a lot of significance with regard to the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India occupy the second spot whereas England is in the eighth position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Cricbuzz, Virat Kohli is expected to take a day off after his net session on Jan 21. He has been given the nod by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to attend the Ram Temple Consecration in Ayodhya on Jan 22.&nbsp;Currently, the Rohit-led Indian team is involved in the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. They have locked horns with the Afghans in the third and inconsequential tie at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru with the series in their pocket after an unassailable 2-0 lead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Ben Stokes-England team will arrive in Hyderabad on Jan 21 following their preparations in Abu Dhabi. Their late arrival hasn't been well received back home, with former pacer Steve Harmison not mincing his words.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-say-no-to-t20-world-cup-shami-hopeful-of-being-part-of-mega-event-with-good-run-in-ipl-2024-680874">'Who will say no to T20 World Cup?': Shami hopeful of being part of mega event with good run in IPL 2024</a></strong></p>

<h2>'You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad?'</h2>

<p>Talking on radio station talkSport's Following On podcast, Harmison recently said,&nbsp;"I'm an old man and that's what they're going to say, the times have changed. But preparation hasn't changed. You cannot go into India underprepared, you cannot go into India over-prepared. You could be in India six weeks before and still not be prepared for that first Test and the emotion of that."</p>

<p>"I love the new approach with Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Rob Key, and everything the ECB has done. But I'm sorry, you'd never go to an Ashes series three days before. You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad? We've got five Test matches in India, you've got to prepare in the right way with overs under your belt, balls faced, and acclimatising," he added.</p>

<p>England's last Test series win in India came in 2012/13. Back then, the visitors reached India&nbsp;almost two weeks in advance. Meanwhile, the last Test series between both sides ended in a 2-2 stalemate, held in the United Kingdom from 2021-22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Early this month, BCCI announced India's squad for the first two Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for the first two Tests vs England:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan</p>


Team India is set to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20 to undergo a four-day practice session before the five-match Test series opener versus England, which kicks off on Jan 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Team India is set to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20 to undergo a four-day practice session before the five-match Test series opener versus England, which kicks off on Jan 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The series holds a lot of significance with regard to the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India occupy the second spot whereas England is in the eighth position. As per Cricbuzz, Virat Kohli is expected to take a day off after his net session on Jan 21. He has been given the nod by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to attend the Ram Temple Consecration in Ayodhya on Jan 22. Currently, the Rohit-led Indian team is involved in the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. They have locked horns with the Afghans in the third and inconsequential tie at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru with the series in their pocket after an unassailable 2-0 lead. Meanwhile, the Ben Stokes-England team will arrive in Hyderabad on Jan 21 following their preparations in Abu Dhabi. Their late arrival hasn't been well received back home, with former pacer Steve Harmison not mincing his words. Also read: 'Who will say no to T20 World Cup?': Shami hopeful of being part of mega event with good run in IPL 2024 'You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad?' Talking on radio station talkSport's Following On podcast, Harmison recently said, "I'm an old man and that's what they're going to say, the times have changed. But preparation hasn't changed. You cannot go into India underprepared, you cannot go into India over-prepared. You could be in India six weeks before and still not be prepared for that first Test and the emotion of that." "I love the new approach with Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Rob Key, and everything the ECB has done. But I'm sorry, you'd never go to an Ashes series three days before. You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad? We've got five Test matches in India, you've got to prepare in the right way with overs under your belt, balls faced, and acclimatising," he added. England's last Test series win in India came in 2012/13. Back then, the visitors reached India almost two weeks in advance. Meanwhile, the last Test series between both sides ended in a 2-2 stalemate, held in the United Kingdom from 2021-22. Early this month, BCCI announced India's squad for the first two Tests. India’s squad for the first two Tests vs England: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan

Ind vs Eng: Team India to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20, five days ahead of Test series opener

<p>On Tuesday (Jan 16), former Indian&nbsp;captain MS Dhoni received an invitation to the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, which is set to take place on Jan 22. Senior RSS functionary Dhananjay&nbsp;Singh told news agency PTI, "We handed over the invitation card to him (Dhoni) on behalf of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for the Pran Pratishtha&nbsp;ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22."</p>

<p>In addition, Singh confirmed that Dhoni and his family expressed happiness on receiving the invitation and, thus, the former Indian cricketer is expected to be in attendance. Dhoni became the third cricketer in the country to be invited to the landmark ceremony.&nbsp;It is to be noted that Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli also received invitations to be part of the&nbsp;Pran Pratishtha Ceremony in Ayodhya.</p>

<p>&nbsp;At present, Dhoni is gearing up for the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-pays-tribute-to-ms-dhoni-for-his-contribution-to-indian-cricket-retires-iconic-number-7-jersey-669839">BCCI pays tribute to MS Dhoni for his contribution to Indian cricket, retires iconic 'Number 7' jersey</a></strong></p>

<p>"As many as 16 distinguished personalities including senior BJP leader and Padma Bhusan Karia Munda, Padma Shri Mukund Nayak, Padma Shri archer Deepika Kumari, AJSU Party chief Sudesh Mahto have been invited for the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya," Singh further stated.</p>

<p>Notably, PM Narendra Modi will also grace the occasion of the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the temple on Jan 22. Apart from some top cricketers of the country, many other celebrities have been invited to the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Some of them include Amitabh Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Rajinikanth, Manmohan Singh, Dhanush, Mohanlal, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn, Prabhas, Yash, Arun Govil and many others.</p>


On Tuesday (Jan 16), former Indian captain MS Dhoni received an invitation to the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, which is set to take place on Jan 22.

On Tuesday (Jan 16), former Indian captain MS Dhoni received an invitation to the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, which is set to take place on Jan 22. Senior RSS functionary Dhananjay Singh told news agency PTI, "We handed over the invitation card to him (Dhoni) on behalf of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22." In addition, Singh confirmed that Dhoni and his family expressed happiness on receiving the invitation and, thus, the former Indian cricketer is expected to be in attendance. Dhoni became the third cricketer in the country to be invited to the landmark ceremony. It is to be noted that Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli also received invitations to be part of the Pran Pratishtha Ceremony in Ayodhya. At present, Dhoni is gearing up for the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. Also read: BCCI pays tribute to MS Dhoni for his contribution to Indian cricket, retires iconic 'Number 7' jersey "As many as 16 distinguished personalities including senior BJP leader and Padma Bhusan Karia Munda, Padma Shri Mukund Nayak, Padma Shri archer Deepika Kumari, AJSU Party chief Sudesh Mahto have been invited for the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya," Singh further stated. Notably, PM Narendra Modi will also grace the occasion of the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the temple on Jan 22. Apart from some top cricketers of the country, many other celebrities have been invited to the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Some of them include Amitabh Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Rajinikanth, Manmohan Singh, Dhanush, Mohanlal, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn, Prabhas, Yash, Arun Govil and many others.

Ram Mandir Ayodhya: MS Dhoni invited for 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony after Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli

<p>Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli will be 'very important' to India's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. The mega event will take place in West Indies and USA with the one-time winners India starting their run on June 5, versus Ireland. India are placed in Group&nbsp;A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA, and Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina's comments came after India beat Afghanistan by six wickets in the second and penultimate T20I at the Holkar Stadium, Indore on Sunday (Jan 14). Kohli marked his T20I return, after 14 months, and played a vital role in the Men in Blue's successful 173-run chase, slamming an impressive 16-ball 29 (striking at 181.25).</p>

<p>Speaking on Sports18, Raina said, "He will be very important (to India's World Cup plans). The biggest question now will be whether Virat Kohli would be willing to play at No. 3? Rohit Sharma wants him to play No. 3 for India, will he follow the template (in the IPL?). He is trying to improve his strike rate. But I feel it’s the job of the players around him. If I am the captain, I’d tell him to do the anchor’s role because he is the kind of player who can hit boundaries and sixes any time he wants."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-rohit-sharma-becomes-batter-with-joint-second-most-ducks-in-t20is-after-flop-show-in-indore-680042">nd vs Afg: Rohit Sharma registers joint second-most ducks in T20Is after flop show in Indore</a></strong></p>

<p>“I think in this World Cup, we need Virat Kohli to stay in the middle for long. That is more important than his strike rate. We all saw he scored 765 runs in the ODI World Cup. We need him for those pitches (in West Indies and USA). The pitches are not going to be easy, it would be a little tricky with mystery spinners. You might have to find ways to get twos and quick singles if you are not able to get boundaries. One of the top 3 needs to play through 20 overs,” Raina added.</p>

<p>Kohli is the highest run-getter in T20 WC history -- with&nbsp;1,141 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;131.30 including 15 fifties. He has been part of the T20 WC since the 2012 edition, where he was India's top run-getter. In the next two editions, he ended with the Player-of-the Tournament awards. In 2022, he once again ended as the highest run-getter (296 runs with four half-centuries).&nbsp;</p>

<p>While there have been some talks regarding Kohli's strike rate and the fact that he takes some time to get going, it looks highly likely that he will be part of India's T20 WC 2024 squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the T20 WC, India will play their last T20I which will be on Wednesday (Jan 17) when they take on Afghanistan in the third and inconsequential tie in Bengaluru. Having won the series, India will aim for a clean sweep whereas Kohli will hope to score big in the final encounter.</p>


Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli will be 'very important' to India's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. The mega event will take place in West Indies and USA with the one-time winners India starting their run on June 5, versus Ireland.

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli will be 'very important' to India's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. The mega event will take place in West Indies and USA with the one-time winners India starting their run on June 5, versus Ireland. India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA, and Canada. Raina's comments came after India beat Afghanistan by six wickets in the second and penultimate T20I at the Holkar Stadium, Indore on Sunday (Jan 14). Kohli marked his T20I return, after 14 months, and played a vital role in the Men in Blue's successful 173-run chase, slamming an impressive 16-ball 29 (striking at 181.25). Speaking on Sports18, Raina said, "He will be very important (to India's World Cup plans). The biggest question now will be whether Virat Kohli would be willing to play at No. 3? Rohit Sharma wants him to play No. 3 for India, will he follow the template (in the IPL?). He is trying to improve his strike rate. But I feel it’s the job of the players around him. If I am the captain, I’d tell him to do the anchor’s role because he is the kind of player who can hit boundaries and sixes any time he wants." Also read: Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma registers joint second-most ducks in T20Is after flop show in Indore “I think in this World Cup, we need Virat Kohli to stay in the middle for long. That is more important than his strike rate. We all saw he scored 765 runs in the ODI World Cup. We need him for those pitches (in West Indies and USA). The pitches are not going to be easy, it would be a little tricky with mystery spinners. You might have to find ways to get twos and quick singles if you are not able to get boundaries. One of the top 3 needs to play through 20 overs,” Raina added. Kohli is the highest run-getter in T20 WC history -- with 1,141 runs at a strike rate of 131.30 including 15 fifties. He has been part of the T20 WC since the 2012 edition, where he was India's top run-getter. In the next two editions, he ended with the Player-of-the Tournament awards. In 2022, he once again ended as the highest run-getter (296 runs with four half-centuries). While there have been some talks regarding Kohli's strike rate and the fact that he takes some time to get going, it looks highly likely that he will be part of India's T20 WC 2024 squad. Ahead of the T20 WC, India will play their last T20I which will be on Wednesday (Jan 17) when they take on Afghanistan in the third and inconsequential tie in Bengaluru. Having won the series, India will aim for a clean sweep whereas Kohli will hope to score big in the final encounter.

Ind vs Afg: Virat Kohli will be very important for India in T20 World Cup - Former all-rounder Suresh Raina

<p>World number one Novak Djokovic responded to Indian star batter Virat Kohli's good wishes for the ongoing Australian Open 2024 edition. The first Grand Slam of the year kicked off in Melbourne on Jan 14 which saw Djokovic play his first-round game on Day One. Djokovic went past&nbsp;Croatia’s Dino Prizmic,&nbsp;6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4, in the men's singles. Later, he reacted to Kohli's wishes on social media platform X.</p>

<p>Taking to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, Djokovic wrote, "Thank you for these kind words @imVkohli Looking forward to the day we play together". This was in response to&nbsp;the former Indian skipper Kohli's revelation&nbsp;on how the two superstar athletes have been in touch, on Instagram,&nbsp;for a few years.</p>

<h2><strong>'I hope you have a great tournament'</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of Kohli's T20I return, on Sunday evening during India's second and penultimate T20I versus Afghanistan in Indore, the 35-year-old spoke about his interaction with Djokovic in a video on BCCI.tv.&nbsp;"I got in touch with Novak very organically, I think on I was I was just looking at his profile once on Instagram, and I just happened to press the message button and thought I would just say hello. And then I saw a message from him on my DM already. I had never opened it myself. I was like, let me just check if it's a fake account or something like that. But then I checked it again and it was legitimate. And then yeah, we got talking. We keep exchanging messages every now and then. I congratulated him for all his amazing achievements,” said Kohli.</p>

<p>“I would like to wish you all the very best for the Australian Open. I know how excited and prepared you are for these big events, and I have no doubt that we'll see the Novak Djokovic that we've seen over the years. I hope you have a great tournament,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opens-up-on-chatting-with-tennis-legend-novak-djokovic-on-instagram-679892">Virat Kohli opens up on chatting with tennis legend Novak Djokovic on Instagram</a></strong></p>

<p>Later, Djokovic reacted to Kohli's message, shared by BCCI's account on X, after moving to the second round of the Australian Open.</p>

<p>The Serb also spoke&nbsp;about his tournament-opener in which he had&nbsp;a tough time against Prizmic in a game which lasted over four hours. Djokovic is eyeing his tenth title at the Australian Open in Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kohli returned to India's T20I setup in the second and penultimate game of the India-Afghanistan series at home. In his side's successful 173-run chase, the batter played a vital part with an entertaining 16-ball 29. The third and final T20I will be played in Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17) with India eyeing a clean sweep.</p>


World number one Novak Djokovic responded to Indian star batter Virat Kohli's good wishes for the ongoing Australian Open 2024 edition. The first Grand Slam of the year kicked off in Melbourne on Jan 14 which saw Djokovic play his first-round game on Day One.

World number one Novak Djokovic responded to Indian star batter Virat Kohli's good wishes for the ongoing Australian Open 2024 edition. The first Grand Slam of the year kicked off in Melbourne on Jan 14 which saw Djokovic play his first-round game on Day One. Djokovic went past Croatia’s Dino Prizmic, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4, in the men's singles. Later, he reacted to Kohli's wishes on social media platform X. Taking to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, Djokovic wrote, "Thank you for these kind words @imVkohli Looking forward to the day we play together". This was in response to the former Indian skipper Kohli's revelation on how the two superstar athletes have been in touch, on Instagram, for a few years. 'I hope you have a great tournament' Ahead of Kohli's T20I return, on Sunday evening during India's second and penultimate T20I versus Afghanistan in Indore, the 35-year-old spoke about his interaction with Djokovic in a video on BCCI.tv. "I got in touch with Novak very organically, I think on I was I was just looking at his profile once on Instagram, and I just happened to press the message button and thought I would just say hello. And then I saw a message from him on my DM already. I had never opened it myself. I was like, let me just check if it's a fake account or something like that. But then I checked it again and it was legitimate. And then yeah, we got talking. We keep exchanging messages every now and then. I congratulated him for all his amazing achievements,” said Kohli. “I would like to wish you all the very best for the Australian Open. I know how excited and prepared you are for these big events, and I have no doubt that we'll see the Novak Djokovic that we've seen over the years. I hope you have a great tournament,” he added. Also read: Virat Kohli opens up on chatting with tennis legend Novak Djokovic on Instagram Later, Djokovic reacted to Kohli's message, shared by BCCI's account on X, after moving to the second round of the Australian Open. The Serb also spoke about his tournament-opener in which he had a tough time against Prizmic in a game which lasted over four hours. Djokovic is eyeing his tenth title at the Australian Open in Melbourne. Meanwhile, Kohli returned to India's T20I setup in the second and penultimate game of the India-Afghanistan series at home. In his side's successful 173-run chase, the batter played a vital part with an entertaining 16-ball 29. The third and final T20I will be played in Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17) with India eyeing a clean sweep.

Djokovic acknowledges Kohli for Australian Open wishes, says 'looking forward to the day we play together'

<p>India great Virat Kohli recently revealed that he and tennis legend Novak Djokovic have been chatting on Instagram for some time, although they haven't met in person yet. Considered to be two all-time bests in their respective sports, Kohli and Djokovic follow each other on social media platform Instagram. Virat disclosed what happened when he once decided to text Novak.</p>

<p>Speaking on the BCCI.tv, Virat revealed when he clicked on the Messages Icon on Instagram to text Novak, he noticed that the Serbian star had already texted, something that he hadn’t checked earlier.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-india-all-rounder-yuvraj-singh-says-ravi-ashwin-doesnt-deserve-place-in-white-ball-team-679841">Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh says Ravi Ashwin 'doesn't deserve place in white-ball team'</a></strong></p>

<p>“I got in touch with Novak very organically,” Kohli told bcci.tv.</p>

<p>“When I saw his profile on Instagram, I pressed the message button, I thought I would just message him. Then I saw his message already on my DM.”</p>

<p>"I had never opened it. It was the first time I had opened my own messages. And he's messaged me himself. So, first, I thought, let me just check, maybe it's a fake account. Then I checked again, it was legitimate. Then we got talking,” the India great added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH VIDEO -</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who else is waiting for this rendezvous 😉☕️<br />
<br />
📽️ WATCH the full video on <a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyeL1t7">https://t.co/Z3MPyeL1t7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> <a href="https://t.co/YAIg0DDfFX">pic.twitter.com/YAIg0DDfFX</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1746451964811182325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Virat said Novak had even put an Instagram story, congratulating the India batter for completing his 50th ODI ton during the home World Cup last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat added that they both admire each other's work and are proud of what they have achieved and that he follows Novak’s fitness mantra, which helped Kohli stay head and shoulders ahead of everyone in cricket.</p>

<p>"When I got 50th ODI century recently, Novak Djokovic put out a story and sent me a nice message as well, so there is mutual admiration and respect - really nice to connect with global athletes who are excelling at a high level. I have a lot of respect for him and his journey… his passion for fitness is something I dearly follow myself. So, there was a lot to connect on,” Kohli added.</p>

<h2>Djokovic praises Kohli</h2>

<p>Currently in Melbourne for the first Grand Slam of the Year – the Australian Open 2024, Novak also expressed his mutual admiration for Virat, saying despite not meeting in person, he connects well with Virat on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape</strong></p>

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<p>"Virat Kohli and I have been texting a little bit for a few years. We never got the chance to meet in person, but it was an honour and privilege to listen to him speak nicely about me," Djokovic said on Sony Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I admire his career and his achievements. I started to play cricket. I'm not very good at it. I have a task to perfect my cricket skills before I get to India so that I don't embarrass myself when I am there,” Novak added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SomdevD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SomdevD</a> speaks with tennis legend <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a>, unravelling his bond with India &amp; his inspiring journey to greatness 🙌💙<br />
<br />
P.S. - Did you know Djokovic &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> were text buddies? 🤗<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SlamOfTheGreats?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SlamOfTheGreats</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NovakDjokovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NovakDjokovic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/J9E7xP2koF">pic.twitter.com/J9E7xP2koF</a></p>
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1746128360240259443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Virat will feature in the second T20I against Sri Lanka in Indore on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>


India great Virat Kohli recently revealed that he and tennis legend Novak Djokovic have been chatting on Instagram for some time, although they haven't met in person yet.

India great Virat Kohli recently revealed that he and tennis legend Novak Djokovic have been chatting on Instagram for some time, although they haven't met in person yet. Considered to be two all-time bests in their respective sports, Kohli and Djokovic follow each other on social media platform Instagram. Virat disclosed what happened when he once decided to text Novak. Speaking on the BCCI.tv, Virat revealed when he clicked on the Messages Icon on Instagram to text Novak, he noticed that the Serbian star had already texted, something that he hadn’t checked earlier. ALSO READ: Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh says Ravi Ashwin 'doesn't deserve place in white-ball team' “I got in touch with Novak very organically,” Kohli told bcci.tv. “When I saw his profile on Instagram, I pressed the message button, I thought I would just message him. Then I saw his message already on my DM.” "I had never opened it. It was the first time I had opened my own messages. And he's messaged me himself. So, first, I thought, let me just check, maybe it's a fake account. Then I checked again, it was legitimate. Then we got talking,” the India great added. WATCH VIDEO - Who else is waiting for this rendezvous 😉☕️ 📽️ WATCH the full video on https://t.co/Z3MPyeL1t7 #TeamIndia | @imVkohli | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/YAIg0DDfFX — BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2024 × Virat said Novak had even put an Instagram story, congratulating the India batter for completing his 50th ODI ton during the home World Cup last year. Virat added that they both admire each other's work and are proud of what they have achieved and that he follows Novak’s fitness mantra, which helped Kohli stay head and shoulders ahead of everyone in cricket. "When I got 50th ODI century recently, Novak Djokovic put out a story and sent me a nice message as well, so there is mutual admiration and respect - really nice to connect with global athletes who are excelling at a high level. I have a lot of respect for him and his journey… his passion for fitness is something I dearly follow myself. So, there was a lot to connect on,” Kohli added. Djokovic praises Kohli Currently in Melbourne for the first Grand Slam of the Year – the Australian Open 2024, Novak also expressed his mutual admiration for Virat, saying despite not meeting in person, he connects well with Virat on social media. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × "Virat Kohli and I have been texting a little bit for a few years. We never got the chance to meet in person, but it was an honour and privilege to listen to him speak nicely about me," Djokovic said on Sony Sports. "I admire his career and his achievements. I started to play cricket. I'm not very good at it. I have a task to perfect my cricket skills before I get to India so that I don't embarrass myself when I am there,” Novak added. .@SomdevD speaks with tennis legend @DjokerNole, unravelling his bond with India & his inspiring journey to greatness 🙌💙 P.S. - Did you know Djokovic & @imVkohli were text buddies? 🤗#SonySportsNetwork #SlamOfTheGreats #NovakDjokovic #AO2024 #AusOpen | @AustralianOpen pic.twitter.com/J9E7xP2koF — Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) January 13, 2024 × Meanwhile, Virat will feature in the second T20I against Sri Lanka in Indore on Sunday.

Virat Kohli opens up on chatting with tennis legend Novak Djokovic on Instagram

<p>Virat Kohli has entertained the global stage of cricket with an illustrious career spanning over 15 years where he won every possible trophy at the international level. While the entire world knows his accomplishments on the cricket field, it is hard to find anyone who has not noticed him. With 265 million followers on Instagram, he is one of the most popular sports athletes on the planet.</p>

<p>However, one football legend did not know about Virat when he was quizzed recently.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Speed - Do you know Virat Kohli, he is the GOAT of cricket?!<br />
<br />
Ronaldo Nazario- Yeah definitely. <a href="https://t.co/MbFYNCoRGf">pic.twitter.com/MbFYNCoRGf</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1745096633153687582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What was the incident?</strong></h2>

<p>Youtube influencer Darren Jason Watkins Jr, popularly known as Speed, recently caught up with Brazil football legend and 2002 FIFA World Cup winner Ronaldo Luís Nazári. In a video surfacing on the internet, Speed was seen asking Ronaldo about Virat Kohli to which he answered – “Who’s Virat Kohli?”</p>

<p>The answer left Speed stunned and he came up with Virat’s picture and showed it to Ronaldo upon which he recognised the Indian cricket legend.</p>

<p>Speed also had to mention about Virat’s accomplishments while comparing him to Pakistani cricketer Babar Azam, stating how better he is.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tiger-woods-nike-part-ways-after-27-years-678134/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Virat has left no stone unturned during his illustrious career on the cricketing field.</p>

<p>Like Ronaldo, he too is considered a living legend in their respective sports.</p>

<p>Ronaldo’s best year came in 2002 when he won the Ballon d’Or coupled with a World Cup, while Virat’s best year came in 2011 when he won the ODI World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-rohit-kohli-have-ordinary-ipl-gavaskar-on-indias-possible-t20-wc-squad-makes-bold-suggestion-678940">‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion</a></p>

<p>He came close to repeating that success in 2023 when hosts India reached the final of the ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>However, India lost that final against Australia in a one-sided contest.</p>

<p>But Kohli made sure he forged his legacy with an eye-catching performance. He scored 763 runs in 11 matches with nine 50-plus scores while also breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds with 50.</p>

<p>He is currently second to Tendulkar (100) for most hundreds at the international level with 80.</p>

<p>Virat will be next in action on Sunday (Jan 14) when India take on Afghanistan in the second T20I in Indore. Virat will not play in the first T20I in Mohali due to personal reasons and will arrive directly in Indore for the second contest.</p>


Virat Kohli has entertained the global stage of cricket with an illustrious career spanning over 15 years where he won every possible trophy at the international level.

Virat Kohli has entertained the global stage of cricket with an illustrious career spanning over 15 years where he won every possible trophy at the international level. While the entire world knows his accomplishments on the cricket field, it is hard to find anyone who has not noticed him. With 265 million followers on Instagram, he is one of the most popular sports athletes on the planet. However, one football legend did not know about Virat when he was quizzed recently. Speed - Do you know Virat Kohli, he is the GOAT of cricket?! Ronaldo Nazario- Yeah definitely. pic.twitter.com/MbFYNCoRGf — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 10, 2024 × What was the incident? Youtube influencer Darren Jason Watkins Jr, popularly known as Speed, recently caught up with Brazil football legend and 2002 FIFA World Cup winner Ronaldo Luís Nazári. In a video surfacing on the internet, Speed was seen asking Ronaldo about Virat Kohli to which he answered – “Who’s Virat Kohli?” The answer left Speed stunned and he came up with Virat’s picture and showed it to Ronaldo upon which he recognised the Indian cricket legend. Speed also had to mention about Virat’s accomplishments while comparing him to Pakistani cricketer Babar Azam, stating how better he is. Virat has left no stone unturned during his illustrious career on the cricketing field. Like Ronaldo, he too is considered a living legend in their respective sports. Ronaldo’s best year came in 2002 when he won the Ballon d’Or coupled with a World Cup, while Virat’s best year came in 2011 when he won the ODI World Cup. ALSO READ | ‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion He came close to repeating that success in 2023 when hosts India reached the final of the ODI World Cup. However, India lost that final against Australia in a one-sided contest. But Kohli made sure he forged his legacy with an eye-catching performance. He scored 763 runs in 11 matches with nine 50-plus scores while also breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds with 50. He is currently second to Tendulkar (100) for most hundreds at the international level with 80. Virat will be next in action on Sunday (Jan 14) when India take on Afghanistan in the second T20I in Indore. Virat will not play in the first T20I in Mohali due to personal reasons and will arrive directly in Indore for the second contest.

‘Who’s Virat Kohli?': Brazil's Ronaldo answers when quizzed over Indian cricket legend

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