Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that players should be dropped, whether seniors or juniors, if they are not performing well in the side. Harbhajan made the comments on the topic of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's future with the Indian cricket team.

Both the batters had recently announced retirement from 20-over cricket after taking India to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024. Both players will next be seen in home Test against Bangladesh next month after playing in ODI series against Sri Lanka early this month.

Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/points-fingers-towards-that-pak-test-captain-shan-masoods-blunt-reply-on-match-fixing-749537">:&nbsp;'Points fingers towards that...,' Pak Test captain Shan Masood's BLUNT reply on 'match-fixing'</a>

"Red ball cricket, you really need these two guys to play a little bit more than what people are asking. You need experience in all formats whether its limited overs cricket and Test cricket. Selectors need to see, that if someone is not performing well, they should be dropped. Whether they are senior player or juniors," Harbhajan said in a conversation with new agency PTI.

The former cricketer also said both the senior batters, who are in their mid-thirties, have a lot of cricket left in them.

“Rohit can easily play for two more years. You never know with Virat Kohli's fitness, you can see him competing for five years. He is probably the fittest guy in the team,” he said.

“You ask any 19-year-old competing with Virat (on fitness). Virat will beat him. He is that fit. I believe Virat and Rohit have a lot of cricket left in them and it is entirely up to them. If they are fit enough, they are performing and the team is winning, they should continue to play. As simple as that,” the spinner added.

India's next assignment is home Test and T20I series against Bangladesh. They will be playing three T20Is and two Tests with the tour kicking off with first Test starting on September 19.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that players should be dropped, whether seniors or juniors, if they are not performing well in the side. Harbhajan made the comments on the topic of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's future with the Indian cricket team.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that players should be dropped, whether seniors or juniors, if they are not performing well in the side. Harbhajan made the comments on the topic of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's future with the Indian cricket team. Both the batters had recently announced retirement from 20-over cricket after taking India to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024. Both players will next be seen in home Test against Bangladesh next month after playing in ODI series against Sri Lanka early this month. Also Read: 'Points fingers towards that...,' Pak Test captain Shan Masood's BLUNT reply on 'match-fixing' "Red ball cricket, you really need these two guys to play a little bit more than what people are asking. You need experience in all formats whether its limited overs cricket and Test cricket. Selectors need to see, that if someone is not performing well, they should be dropped. Whether they are senior player or juniors," Harbhajan said in a conversation with new agency PTI. The former cricketer also said both the senior batters, who are in their mid-thirties, have a lot of cricket left in them. “Rohit can easily play for two more years. You never know with Virat Kohli's fitness, you can see him competing for five years. He is probably the fittest guy in the team,” he said. “You ask any 19-year-old competing with Virat (on fitness). Virat will beat him. He is that fit. I believe Virat and Rohit have a lot of cricket left in them and it is entirely up to them. If they are fit enough, they are performing and the team is winning, they should continue to play. As simple as that,” the spinner added. India's next assignment is home Test and T20I series against Bangladesh. They will be playing three T20Is and two Tests with the tour kicking off with first Test starting on September 19.

'They should be dropped...,' Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh on seniors in Indian cricket team

Batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma might feature in the upcoming Duleep Trophy alongside other first-team players as Team India gears up for the two home Tests against Bangladesh starting September 19. Per the latest report, the BCCI will pick the squads for the tournament, to be played in a newer format, with Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav asked to feature as well.

The report also suggests that the Indian board wants to include Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan in squads for the four-team event, which begins on September 5. Both were left out of BCCI’s central contract list for the upcoming season after their fallouts with the board over their participation in the domestic matches. Though the BCCI’s selection committee named Iyer in the squad for the recently concluded Sri Lanka ODIs, Kishan’s name was nowhere to be found.

Meanwhile, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is said to be resting ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah from this tournament and Bangladesh Tests.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/lets-admit-that-dinesh-karthik-on-virat-kohlis-struggle-against-spin-in-odi-series-loss-vs-sri-lanka-749208">'Let’s admit that...,' Dinesh Karthik on Virat Kohli's struggle against spin in ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka</a>

Considering the pitches on offer in the first series of the home season will assist spinners, and Mohammed Shami is nearing full fitness, with the latest updates suggesting he resumed bowling at the NCA, Bumrah could be on prolonged rest.

Besides, with India playing eight Tests till early next year, including three against New Zealand at home and five against Australia Down Under, Bumrah’s fitness and availability would be paramount for the Indian Team.

<h2>New format for Duleep Trophy</h2>

With India's cricket apex body done away with the zonal format for this tournament, the selection committee will now pick four squads – India A, India B, India C and India D.&nbsp;

Also, since the star players have agreed to play in the tournament, scheduled in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, not connected by air transport, the BCCI has decided to keep one round at the M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru.

The six matches will begin on September 5 and end on September 24, with the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19.

Meanwhile, there is no official word on whether Virat and Rohit will play the first two rounds of the Duleep Trophy, starting September 5 and September 12, respectively. But the report in the Indian Express reads that the BCCI plans to host a short camp in Chennai before the Bangladesh Tests, and if all goes to plan, the two will feature in the domestic tournament.

(With inputs from agencies)

Batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma might feature in the upcoming Duleep Trophy alongside other first-team players as Team India gears up for the two home Tests against Bangladesh starting September 19.

Batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma might feature in the upcoming Duleep Trophy alongside other first-team players as Team India gears up for the two home Tests against Bangladesh starting September 19. Per the latest report, the BCCI will pick the squads for the tournament, to be played in a newer format, with Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav asked to feature as well. The report also suggests that the Indian board wants to include Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan in squads for the four-team event, which begins on September 5. Both were left out of BCCI’s central contract list for the upcoming season after their fallouts with the board over their participation in the domestic matches. Though the BCCI’s selection committee named Iyer in the squad for the recently concluded Sri Lanka ODIs, Kishan’s name was nowhere to be found. Meanwhile, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is said to be resting ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah from this tournament and Bangladesh Tests. ALSO READ: 'Let’s admit that...,' Dinesh Karthik on Virat Kohli's struggle against spin in ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka Considering the pitches on offer in the first series of the home season will assist spinners, and Mohammed Shami is nearing full fitness, with the latest updates suggesting he resumed bowling at the NCA, Bumrah could be on prolonged rest. Besides, with India playing eight Tests till early next year, including three against New Zealand at home and five against Australia Down Under, Bumrah’s fitness and availability would be paramount for the Indian Team. New format for Duleep Trophy With India's cricket apex body done away with the zonal format for this tournament, the selection committee will now pick four squads – India A, India B, India C and India D. Also, since the star players have agreed to play in the tournament, scheduled in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, not connected by air transport, the BCCI has decided to keep one round at the M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru. The six matches will begin on September 5 and end on September 24, with the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19. Meanwhile, there is no official word on whether Virat and Rohit will play the first two rounds of the Duleep Trophy, starting September 5 and September 12, respectively. But the report in the Indian Express reads that the BCCI plans to host a short camp in Chennai before the Bangladesh Tests, and if all goes to plan, the two will feature in the domestic tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat, Rohit might play in Duleep Trophy as India gear up for Bangladesh Tests; BCCI to include Iyer, Ishan

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has said that the pitches in Sri Lanka were tough to bat on. The comments come after India lost the three-match ODI series 0-2&nbsp;with the first ODI being tied. This was the first time since 1997 since that India lost a bilateral ODI series in Sri Lanka.

Karthik was responding to a question about India batter Virat Kohli's lack of runs and LBW dismissal in the series when he made the comments. Kohli scored 24 runs in the first ODI while managing only 14 and 20 runs in the next two games.

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“It’s been a tough pitch to play spin in this series, let’s admit that first. Be it Virat Kohli, be it Rohit Sharma, or be it anyone else. With the slightly semi-new ball between overs about 8 to 30, it’s been hard work. It’s nothing to worry about. Not too many pitches work that way, but it’s been a tough pitch to play spinners. I’m not going to defend Virat Kohli here, but I can tell you that playing spin was very hard,” Karthik said in a conversation with news outlet Cricbuzz.

After the first game ended in a tie, India lost the second ODI by 32 runs and the third ODI by 110 runs. They were chasing in all three matches after losing three consecutive tosses.

India skipper Rohit Sharma had also agreed that the ability to play spin is something they (team) will have to look into but didn't call it a concern.

"I don't think it's (playing spin) a concern, but it's something we need to look at seriously, our individual gameplans, and it's something we were definitely put under pressure with in this series." Rohit had said after the loss in third ODI. 
&nbsp;

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has said that the pitches in Sri Lanka were tough to bat on. The comments come after India lost the three-match ODI series 0-2 with the first ODI being tied.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has said that the pitches in Sri Lanka were tough to bat on. The comments come after India lost the three-match ODI series 0-2 with the first ODI being tied. This was the first time since 1997 since that India lost a bilateral ODI series in Sri Lanka. Karthik was responding to a question about India batter Virat Kohli's lack of runs and LBW dismissal in the series when he made the comments. Kohli scored 24 runs in the first ODI while managing only 14 and 20 runs in the next two games. Also Read: Vinesh Phogat Olympic Medal appeal: 'Incredibly tough...,' says Olympian Abhinav Bindra on chances of medal “It’s been a tough pitch to play spin in this series, let’s admit that first. Be it Virat Kohli, be it Rohit Sharma, or be it anyone else. With the slightly semi-new ball between overs about 8 to 30, it’s been hard work. It’s nothing to worry about. Not too many pitches work that way, but it’s been a tough pitch to play spinners. I’m not going to defend Virat Kohli here, but I can tell you that playing spin was very hard,” Karthik said in a conversation with news outlet Cricbuzz. After the first game ended in a tie, India lost the second ODI by 32 runs and the third ODI by 110 runs. They were chasing in all three matches after losing three consecutive tosses. India skipper Rohit Sharma had also agreed that the ability to play spin is something they (team) will have to look into but didn't call it a concern. "I don't think it's (playing spin) a concern, but it's something we need to look at seriously, our individual gameplans, and it's something we were definitely put under pressure with in this series." Rohit had said after the loss in third ODI.

'Let’s admit that...,' Dinesh Karthik on Virat Kohli's struggle against spin in ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka

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Former India skipper MS Dhoni has spoken about his relationship with star Indian batter Virat Kohli and said that he enjoyed batting with Kohli during his playing days.

“We have been colleagues who played for India for a very long time. He (Kohli) has been amongst the best when it comes to world cricket. And the fact that I could bat a lot with him during the middle overs was a lot of fun because we used to take a lot of twos and threes in the game, so it has always been fun," Dhoni said on the sidelines of an event.

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Dhoni, however, acknowledged that even though he doesn't meet with Kohli often he&nbsp;definitely chats with him for some time when the two players meet during the Indian Premier League (IPL) or any other event.

"It is not like we meet very often, but whenever we get a chance, we make sure that we go on the side and chat for some time. We talk about what is going on, so that is our relationship,” added the former wicketkeeper-batter.

Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020 but has been playing in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Kohli, on the other hand, announced his retirement from the T20Is following India's T20 World Cup win in June earlier this year.

<h2>Ex-Pakistan Spinner on India Playing in Champions Trophy 2025</h2>

Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has addressed India's reported reluctance to travel to the neighbouring country for the 2025 Champions Trophy. His statement came after reports of budget approval by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

"It's simple. If India wants to come, they can. If they don't want to come, it doesn't matter. There's no point in making a fuss about it. This won't make either party good or bad. This is ICC's event, and they will look into this matter, as they should," Mushtaq said as reported by Cricket Pakistan.

Both India and Pakistan face each other in the ICC and Asian tournaments only and do not play in bilateral series due to political tensions between them.

Former India skipper MS Dhoni has spoken about his relationship with star Indian batter Virat Kohli and said that he enjoyed batting with Kohli during his playing days.

Former India skipper MS Dhoni has spoken about his relationship with star Indian batter Virat Kohli and said that he enjoyed batting with Kohli during his playing days. “We have been colleagues who played for India for a very long time. He (Kohli) has been amongst the best when it comes to world cricket. And the fact that I could bat a lot with him during the middle overs was a lot of fun because we used to take a lot of twos and threes in the game, so it has always been fun," Dhoni said on the sidelines of an event. Also Read: Paris Games 2024: Sports Ministry sends 40 portable AC units for Indian athletes at Olympic Village Dhoni, however, acknowledged that even though he doesn't meet with Kohli often he definitely chats with him for some time when the two players meet during the Indian Premier League (IPL) or any other event. "It is not like we meet very often, but whenever we get a chance, we make sure that we go on the side and chat for some time. We talk about what is going on, so that is our relationship,” added the former wicketkeeper-batter. Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020 but has been playing in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Kohli, on the other hand, announced his retirement from the T20Is following India's T20 World Cup win in June earlier this year. Ex-Pakistan Spinner on India Playing in Champions Trophy 2025 Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has addressed India's reported reluctance to travel to the neighbouring country for the 2025 Champions Trophy. His statement came after reports of budget approval by the International Cricket Council (ICC). "It's simple. If India wants to come, they can. If they don't want to come, it doesn't matter. There's no point in making a fuss about it. This won't make either party good or bad. This is ICC's event, and they will look into this matter, as they should," Mushtaq said as reported by Cricket Pakistan. Both India and Pakistan face each other in the ICC and Asian tournaments only and do not play in bilateral series due to political tensions between them.

'Colleagues who played...,' Former India skipper MS Dhoni on his relationship with Virat Kohli

The opening contest of the three-match ODI series between India and Sri Lanka ended in a dramatic tie after Wanindu Hasaranga spoiled the day for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they returned to the Indian side. Playing in the opening ODI on Friday (August 2) at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, India needed one run to win before the Lankan bowlers scalped two wickets in two balls to end the contest in a rare tie.

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WE HAVE A TIE IN COLOMBO 🙌 
 
Two wickets in two balls for skipper Charith Asalanka as the match ends with scores level. 
 
📝 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a>: <a href="https://t.co/ZrezKLA1h4">https://t.co/ZrezKLA1h4</a> <a href="https://t.co/2FwMR5Q0gM">pic.twitter.com/2FwMR5Q0gM</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1819412453400158463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>India-Sri Lanka contest ends in tie</h2>

Needing 231 runs to win the opening ODI against hosts Sri Lanka, the Indian team made a good start to their innings with returning skipper Rohit Sharma slamming a fifty while Shubman Gill scored 16. The pair put together a 75-run stand for the opening wicket before Gill was dismissed. Soon the Indian team lost Rohit on 58 while Washington Sundar departed for 5 off 4. Former skipper Virat Kohli, who has a great record against Sri Lanka also did not make any impact and was dismissed for 24 off 32.

Soon the Indian team was 197/7 needing 35 runs to win and having three wickets in hand. Shivam Dube held one end for India until he was dismissed for 25 while Axar Patel contributed with 33 off 57.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-all-you-need-to-know-about-indias-schedule-on-day-8-as-manu-hunts-for-another-medal-746679">Paris Olympics 2024: All you need to know about India's schedule on Day 8 as Manu hunts for another medal</a>

With India having two wickets in hand and more than two overs to spare and needing a run to win, things did not pan out well. Dube who initially thought he had helped India win the match after snatching a leg bye was given lbw upon review. This means India still needed a run to win with one wicket in hand. However, Arshdeep Singh was also given lbw on the next ball and the match ended in a tie.

Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka both ended with three wickets each and helped the Lankan team end the losing streak against India. Both nations will next meet on Sunday in the second ODI at the same venue with no team leading the series.

The opening contest of the three-match ODI series between India and Sri Lanka ended in a dramatic tie after Wanindu Hasaranga spoiled the day for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they returned to the Indian side.

The opening contest of the three-match ODI series between India and Sri Lanka ended in a dramatic tie after Wanindu Hasaranga spoiled the day for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they returned to the Indian side. Playing in the opening ODI on Friday (August 2) at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, India needed one run to win before the Lankan bowlers scalped two wickets in two balls to end the contest in a rare tie. WE HAVE A TIE IN COLOMBO 🙌 Two wickets in two balls for skipper Charith Asalanka as the match ends with scores level. 📝 #SLvIND: https://t.co/ZrezKLA1h4 pic.twitter.com/2FwMR5Q0gM — ICC (@ICC) August 2, 2024 × India-Sri Lanka contest ends in tie Needing 231 runs to win the opening ODI against hosts Sri Lanka, the Indian team made a good start to their innings with returning skipper Rohit Sharma slamming a fifty while Shubman Gill scored 16. The pair put together a 75-run stand for the opening wicket before Gill was dismissed. Soon the Indian team lost Rohit on 58 while Washington Sundar departed for 5 off 4. Former skipper Virat Kohli, who has a great record against Sri Lanka also did not make any impact and was dismissed for 24 off 32. Soon the Indian team was 197/7 needing 35 runs to win and having three wickets in hand. Shivam Dube held one end for India until he was dismissed for 25 while Axar Patel contributed with 33 off 57. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: All you need to know about India's schedule on Day 8 as Manu hunts for another medal With India having two wickets in hand and more than two overs to spare and needing a run to win, things did not pan out well. Dube who initially thought he had helped India win the match after snatching a leg bye was given lbw upon review. This means India still needed a run to win with one wicket in hand. However, Arshdeep Singh was also given lbw on the next ball and the match ended in a tie. Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka both ended with three wickets each and helped the Lankan team end the losing streak against India. Both nations will next meet on Sunday in the second ODI at the same venue with no team leading the series.

SL vs IND, 1st ODI: Hasaranga spoils Rohit, Virat's return to Indian side as dramatic contest ends in tie

Former India captain Virat Kohli got a warm reception on Monday (Jul&nbsp;29) evening after he arrived at the Colombo International Airport. Virat, who will play in the three-match ODI series was in the United Kingdom after helping India win the T20 World Cup in the West Indies in June. He got a warm reception from the fans as he arrived in Colombo as India gets ready for the ODI series which starts on Friday (Aug 2).

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Virat Kohli snapped at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. 🛬<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratGang?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratGang</a> <a href="https://t.co/lki3o85dfb">pic.twitter.com/lki3o85dfb</a>
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<h2>Virat arrives in Colombo</h2>

One of the fan favourites in Sri Lanka, the legendary India batter was seen flaunting at the airport as he gets ready for his first international assignment after the T20 World Cup success. He was seen wearing a white T-shirt with a bag and a suitcase while listening to music on his phone. He would stay calm and composed despite fans getting closer to him. He would then escape the airport for the team hotel as India gets ready for another series of success.

The upcoming ODI series will be crucial for Virat and other senior players as India prepare for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The series also marks the first time Virat and head coach Gautam Gambhir will share the dressing room having had a rich history of spats during the Indian Premier League. The former India skipper announced his retirement from the T20I format after the World Cup but is still an important part of the ODI and Test set-up.

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<h2>What can India expect?</h2>

Over the weekend, captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul also arrived in Sri Lanka as the Men in Blue put together a strong squad for the series. India will be expected to win the series 3-0 and start preparations for the Champions Trophy which is set to take place in February and March. India under Rohit and Virat will be favourites to win the tournament while suspense still surrounds where the competition will take place.

Former India captain Virat Kohli got a warm reception on Monday (Jul 29) evening after he arrived at the Colombo International Airport. Virat, who will play in the three-match ODI series was in the United Kingdom after helping India win the T20 World Cup in the West Indies in June.

Former India captain Virat Kohli got a warm reception on Monday (Jul 29) evening after he arrived at the Colombo International Airport. Virat, who will play in the three-match ODI series was in the United Kingdom after helping India win the T20 World Cup in the West Indies in June. He got a warm reception from the fans as he arrived in Colombo as India gets ready for the ODI series which starts on Friday (Aug 2). Virat Kohli snapped at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. 🛬#ViratKohli • #INDvSL • #ViratGang pic.twitter.com/lki3o85dfb — ViratGang.in (@ViratGangIN) July 30, 2024 × Virat arrives in Colombo One of the fan favourites in Sri Lanka, the legendary India batter was seen flaunting at the airport as he gets ready for his first international assignment after the T20 World Cup success. He was seen wearing a white T-shirt with a bag and a suitcase while listening to music on his phone. He would stay calm and composed despite fans getting closer to him. He would then escape the airport for the team hotel as India gets ready for another series of success. The upcoming ODI series will be crucial for Virat and other senior players as India prepare for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The series also marks the first time Virat and head coach Gautam Gambhir will share the dressing room having had a rich history of spats during the Indian Premier League. The former India skipper announced his retirement from the T20I format after the World Cup but is still an important part of the ODI and Test set-up. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: Triathlon postponed to Wednesday due to Seine pollution in another setback for organisers What can India expect? Over the weekend, captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul also arrived in Sri Lanka as the Men in Blue put together a strong squad for the series. India will be expected to win the series 3-0 and start preparations for the Champions Trophy which is set to take place in February and March. India under Rohit and Virat will be favourites to win the tournament while suspense still surrounds where the competition will take place.

WATCH: Virat Kohli gets warm reception after landing in Colombo for Sri Lanka ODI series

Veteran Indian duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, alongside the ODI-bound players, landed in Sri Lanka on Sunday night (Jul&nbsp;28) for the three-match One-Day series starting August 1. Shreyas Iyer, Kuldeep Yadav, KL Rahul and Harshit Rana are among the&nbsp;other players who checked into the ITC Ratnadipa Hotel in Colombo.

Meanwhile, one of the assistant coaches, Abhishek Nayar, has joined the squad in the capital city, flying from Pallekele after the end of the 2nd T20I. Per the latest reports, the ODI-bound players will have a net session on Monday (Jul&nbsp;29), with Nayar overseeing the proceedings.

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The remainder of the ODI squad members will join the ones in Colombo following the end of the T20I series on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;30). The Men in Blue won the second game by seven wickets, sealing the three-match T20I series.&nbsp;

The ODI series begins on Thursday (Aug&nbsp;1), with the second and third ODI scheduled for August 4 and 7, respectively.&nbsp;

<h2>A new backroom staff member joining soon</h2>

One of the five speculated conditions that Gautam Gambhir had kept ahead of the BCCI before accepting the head coach role was that he wanted the backroom staff of this choice. Although the board is said to have agreed to his terms at that time, not everything asked for hasn't been delivered.&nbsp;

After rejecting a few names for the respective positions, including Vinay Kumar for the bowling coach, the board accepted Gambhir’s proposal to offer Morne Morkel the same role, per the latest reports. The former South Africa seamer will join the backroom staff from the home season, starting in September with the Bangladesh series.&nbsp;

Speaking of the coaching staff, the decision on Sairaj Bahutule – a dominant spin bowling coach who joined the squad as an interim coach for the Sri Lanka series, is yet to be made.&nbsp;

If in case the BCCI continues with Bahutule as the spin coach, the full backroom staff under head coach Gautam Gambhir would be T Dilip (fielding coach), two assistant coaches - Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate and bowling coach Morne Morkel.&nbsp;

<h3>India’s ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series -</h3>

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (vc), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed and Harshit Rana

(With inputs from agencies)

Veteran Indian duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, alongside the ODI-bound players, landed in Sri Lanka on Sunday night (Jul 28) for the three-match One-Day series starting August 1.

Veteran Indian duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, alongside the ODI-bound players, landed in Sri Lanka on Sunday night (Jul 28) for the three-match One-Day series starting August 1. Shreyas Iyer, Kuldeep Yadav, KL Rahul and Harshit Rana are among the other players who checked into the ITC Ratnadipa Hotel in Colombo. Meanwhile, one of the assistant coaches, Abhishek Nayar, has joined the squad in the capital city, flying from Pallekele after the end of the 2nd T20I. Per the latest reports, the ODI-bound players will have a net session on Monday (Jul 29), with Nayar overseeing the proceedings. ALSO READ: Ben Stokes surpasses Ian Botham to smash quickest Test fifty for England in West Indies thrashing The remainder of the ODI squad members will join the ones in Colombo following the end of the T20I series on Tuesday (Jul 30). The Men in Blue won the second game by seven wickets, sealing the three-match T20I series. The ODI series begins on Thursday (Aug 1), with the second and third ODI scheduled for August 4 and 7, respectively. A new backroom staff member joining soon One of the five speculated conditions that Gautam Gambhir had kept ahead of the BCCI before accepting the head coach role was that he wanted the backroom staff of this choice. Although the board is said to have agreed to his terms at that time, not everything asked for hasn't been delivered. After rejecting a few names for the respective positions, including Vinay Kumar for the bowling coach, the board accepted Gambhir’s proposal to offer Morne Morkel the same role, per the latest reports. The former South Africa seamer will join the backroom staff from the home season, starting in September with the Bangladesh series. Speaking of the coaching staff, the decision on Sairaj Bahutule – a dominant spin bowling coach who joined the squad as an interim coach for the Sri Lanka series, is yet to be made. If in case the BCCI continues with Bahutule as the spin coach, the full backroom staff under head coach Gautam Gambhir would be T Dilip (fielding coach), two assistant coaches - Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate and bowling coach Morne Morkel. India’s ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series - Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (vc), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed and Harshit Rana (With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli arrive in Sri Lanka for ODI series as Abhishek Nayar joins squad for build up

Suryakumar Yadav started his stint as India's T20I skipper with a win and equalling Virat Kohli's record as well. Surya, during India's 43-run win on Saturday (Jul 27) against Sri Lanka, was named Player of the Match for the record 16th time.

Only Virat has 16 POTM awards to his name in 125 international T20Is games he played before retiring after India's T20 World Cup glory in June.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sl-vs-ind-1st-t20i-india-start-gambhir-suryakumar-era-on-winning-note-despite-hosts-resolute-show-with-bat-744838">SL vs IND, 1st T20I: India start Gambhir-Suryakumar era on winning note despite hosts' resolute show with bat</a>

Surya, meanwhile, reached the milestone in nearly half the matches - 69 to be precise and has a chance to add more to his tally as well.

Behind Surya and Virat is Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza with 15 POTM awards in 91 T20Is. Next is Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi with 14 POTM awards in 129 matches.

Former India T20I skipper Rohit Sharma completes top-five with 14 POTMs in 159 matches he played before retiring.

India's new T20I skipper was named the POTM in his first match as captain for scoring 58 off 26 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes.

Thanks to his fifty and decent contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (21-ball 40) and Rishabh Pant (33-ball 49), India posted a huge total of 213/7 in 20 overs.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka were very much in the chase with 140/1 in 14 overs before a proper batting collapse saw them getting all-out for 170 runs in 19.2 overs.

Speaking after match, Surya praised the opposition for playing brilliantly and said: " I think they were playing some good brand of cricket from ball one. Even with wickets falling, they [SL] kept the tempo up. We practised here for two-three days and we knew how the wicket would play. We never thought it [the game] would go away from us, given we won the World Cup."

India next play Sri Lanka on Sunday (Jul 28) before the final T20I of the series takes place on Jul 30.

Suryakumar Yadav started his stint as India's T20I skipper with a win and equalling Virat Kohli's record as well. Surya, during India's 43-run win on Saturday (Jul 27) against Sri Lanka, was named Player of the Match for the record 16th time.

Suryakumar Yadav started his stint as India's T20I skipper with a win and equalling Virat Kohli's record as well. Surya, during India's 43-run win on Saturday (Jul 27) against Sri Lanka, was named Player of the Match for the record 16th time. Only Virat has 16 POTM awards to his name in 125 international T20Is games he played before retiring after India's T20 World Cup glory in June. Also Read: SL vs IND, 1st T20I: India start Gambhir-Suryakumar era on winning note despite hosts' resolute show with bat Surya, meanwhile, reached the milestone in nearly half the matches - 69 to be precise and has a chance to add more to his tally as well. Behind Surya and Virat is Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza with 15 POTM awards in 91 T20Is. Next is Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi with 14 POTM awards in 129 matches. Former India T20I skipper Rohit Sharma completes top-five with 14 POTMs in 159 matches he played before retiring. India's new T20I skipper was named the POTM in his first match as captain for scoring 58 off 26 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes. Thanks to his fifty and decent contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (21-ball 40) and Rishabh Pant (33-ball 49), India posted a huge total of 213/7 in 20 overs. Sri Lanka were very much in the chase with 140/1 in 14 overs before a proper batting collapse saw them getting all-out for 170 runs in 19.2 overs. Speaking after match, Surya praised the opposition for playing brilliantly and said: " I think they were playing some good brand of cricket from ball one. Even with wickets falling, they [SL] kept the tempo up. We practised here for two-three days and we knew how the wicket would play. We never thought it [the game] would go away from us, given we won the World Cup." India next play Sri Lanka on Sunday (Jul 28) before the final T20I of the series takes place on Jul 30.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav equals Virat Kohli's world record during 1st T20I win vs SL

After India's 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, in Ahmedabad, many felt Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have ended their run in the mega event. Many also felt they will not be a part of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA. However, the duo were not only a part of the campaign but played crucial roles to help India win the title, last month in Barbados. Kohli, 35, and Rohit, 37, have managed their workload very well in the recent past, and it has helped in them scoring a bulk of runs. However, the big questions remains: can the two play until 2027 ODI WC?

<h2>'Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan will keep making runs and push you'</h2>

In this regard, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra gave an interesting take. Talking on Sports Tak, the veteran said, "It involves both physical and mental aspects. It depends on your passion and motivation and in these aspects, there is no dearth at all when it comes to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. It's because of their drive that they have reached where they are today. From here, young guns like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan will keep making runs and push you. For that, you need to keep raising your bar. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have done that and shown."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-surprised-gt-coach-ashish-nehra-shares-his-take-on-hardik-pandyas-t20i-captaincy-snub-743683">'Not surprised': GT coach Ashish Nehra shares his take on Hardik Pandya's T20I captaincy snub</a>

<h2>'If you give Gambhir a choice, he will say 'No Sai Sudharsan, I am ready'</h2>

Nehra pointed out, "2027 is far away at this point. But it's great thinking. If you ask me 'I want to be 18 all my life. I didn't want to retire. If you give Gambhir a choice and tell him his body is fit, he will say 'No Sai Sudharsan, I am ready'." He added, "4 years is far away, but it's a great thought. But, if that can be done, nothing like it."

In the last ODI WC, at home, Kohli ended as the top run-getter (765&nbsp;-- most by any in a single edition) whereas captain Rohit amassed 597 runs (second-most).&nbsp;Rohit also ended as the second-highest run-getter in the recently-held T20 WC, where India beat South Africa in the final, with 257 runs whereas Kohli top-scored in the finale with a fine 76 (59). Hence, both continue to be India's key batters. Having retired from T20Is, the duo will look to remain fit and try and play until the 2027 ODI WC. However, it will surely be a stern task.

After India's 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, in Ahmedabad, many felt Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have ended their run in the mega event. Many also felt they will not be a part of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA.

After India's 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, in Ahmedabad, many felt Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have ended their run in the mega event. Many also felt they will not be a part of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA. However, the duo were not only a part of the campaign but played crucial roles to help India win the title, last month in Barbados. Kohli, 35, and Rohit, 37, have managed their workload very well in the recent past, and it has helped in them scoring a bulk of runs. However, the big questions remains: can the two play until 2027 ODI WC? 'Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan will keep making runs and push you' In this regard, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra gave an interesting take. Talking on Sports Tak, the veteran said, "It involves both physical and mental aspects. It depends on your passion and motivation and in these aspects, there is no dearth at all when it comes to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. It's because of their drive that they have reached where they are today. From here, young guns like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan will keep making runs and push you. For that, you need to keep raising your bar. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have done that and shown." Also read: 'Not surprised': GT coach Ashish Nehra shares his take on Hardik Pandya's T20I captaincy snub 'If you give Gambhir a choice, he will say 'No Sai Sudharsan, I am ready' Nehra pointed out, "2027 is far away at this point. But it's great thinking. If you ask me 'I want to be 18 all my life. I didn't want to retire. If you give Gambhir a choice and tell him his body is fit, he will say 'No Sai Sudharsan, I am ready'." He added, "4 years is far away, but it's a great thought. But, if that can be done, nothing like it." In the last ODI WC, at home, Kohli ended as the top run-getter (765 -- most by any in a single edition) whereas captain Rohit amassed 597 runs (second-most). Rohit also ended as the second-highest run-getter in the recently-held T20 WC, where India beat South Africa in the final, with 257 runs whereas Kohli top-scored in the finale with a fine 76 (59). Hence, both continue to be India's key batters. Having retired from T20Is, the duo will look to remain fit and try and play until the 2027 ODI WC. However, it will surely be a stern task.

'If you give Gambhir a choice...': Ex-India pacer on whether Kohli and Rohit can play until 2027 ODI WC

Team India is all set for the latest transition phase as they take on Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series followed by a three-match ODI series starting on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;24). The tour will mark the start of the Gautam Gambhir coaching era where fresh names have got opportunities in the T20I set-up while old faces like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retain their places in the ODI set-up. Speaking ahead of the tour, former India World Cup winner Ashish Nehra opened up on the linking of Virat and Gambhir who will be sharing the same dressing room while on national duty.

<h2>Nehra opens up on Virat, Gambhir</h2>

According to Nehra, there shouldn’t be any issues between the pair despite having clashed several times in the opposite dugout during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Nehra thinks, both are good professionals and fight till the end for the jerseys they don.

"Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir are two very passionate individuals. Whenever they play for a team, they can turn up against the opposition. But, when they are together in a dressing room, they are together, united for the team. You're talking about Virat Kohli, who has experience of over 16-17 years, Gautam Gambhir is also experienced,” said Nehra&nbsp;while speaking to Sports Tak.

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“The things on the outside, people get an impression about it. It's not just Gambhir and Kohli, so many players have had on-field spats in the past, but when they play together for a team, they have done well as a player, as a coach-captain, as a coach and senior player," added Nehra.

After the T20 World Cup in June, both Rohit and Virat announced their retirement from the format for India, but are back in the national side for the ODI series. Rohit will be the team captain while Virat will serve as an important member of the ODI and Test side. Both will be important for India’s success at the 2025 Champions Trophy and World Test Championship (WTC).

Team India is all set for the latest transition phase as they take on Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series followed by a three-match ODI series starting on Saturday (Jul 24).

Team India is all set for the latest transition phase as they take on Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series followed by a three-match ODI series starting on Saturday (Jul 24). The tour will mark the start of the Gautam Gambhir coaching era where fresh names have got opportunities in the T20I set-up while old faces like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retain their places in the ODI set-up. Speaking ahead of the tour, former India World Cup winner Ashish Nehra opened up on the linking of Virat and Gambhir who will be sharing the same dressing room while on national duty. Nehra opens up on Virat, Gambhir According to Nehra, there shouldn’t be any issues between the pair despite having clashed several times in the opposite dugout during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Nehra thinks, both are good professionals and fight till the end for the jerseys they don. "Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir are two very passionate individuals. Whenever they play for a team, they can turn up against the opposition. But, when they are together in a dressing room, they are together, united for the team. You're talking about Virat Kohli, who has experience of over 16-17 years, Gautam Gambhir is also experienced,” said Nehra while speaking to Sports Tak. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: Russian arrested over 'destabilisation' plot in French capital “The things on the outside, people get an impression about it. It's not just Gambhir and Kohli, so many players have had on-field spats in the past, but when they play together for a team, they have done well as a player, as a coach-captain, as a coach and senior player," added Nehra. After the T20 World Cup in June, both Rohit and Virat announced their retirement from the format for India, but are back in the national side for the ODI series. Rohit will be the team captain while Virat will serve as an important member of the ODI and Test side. Both will be important for India’s success at the 2025 Champions Trophy and World Test Championship (WTC).

Ashish Nehra backs Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir to come good for India ahead of Sri Lanka ODI series

Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir shared his thoughts on his relationship with veteran batter Virat Kohli, saying the bond he shares with Kohli is not for everyone to know and definitely not for TRP. Gambhir, who has a history with Kohli, including their latest verbal brawl during last year’s IPL, added Kohli and he represent&nbsp;140 crore Indians, and at the end of the day, that matters.

"What kind of a relationship I have with Virat Kohli is not for TRP. At the moment, we are representing India, we are representing 140 crore Indians. I have an excellent relationship with him off the field,” Gambhir said when asked about his connection with his former teammate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/selectors-explain-why-ravindra-jadeja-is-rested-and-not-dropped-for-sri-lanka-odis-742960">Selectors explain why Ravindra Jadeja is ‘rested’ and ‘not dropped’ for Sri Lanka ODIs</a>

Meanwhile, Virat and Gautam have played together for Delhi in domestic cricket and later for India across formats for several years. Two aggressive yet stylish cricketers have had some bitter memories to look back also, beginning with an on-field brawl during an IPL season over a decade ago.&nbsp;

Following Kohli’s wicket during that game (where Kohli was playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gambhir was leading Kolkata Knight Riders), both aggressively approached each other, only for others to interrupt and separate them.

“But, it's not for the public. It's not important how many chats I've had with him during or after the game. He is a thorough professional and a world-class athlete, and hopefully, he will continue that way,” Gambhir continued.

<h2>Gambhir on Shami’s return</h2>

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami got ruled out of on-field with an ankle injury following the home World Cup last year and has been on the sidelines&nbsp;since.&nbsp;

Upon undergoing surgery in London earlier this year, Shami returned home and, per Gambhir, has also started bowling. Though he will miss the white-ball leg against Sri Lanka, consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs starting July 27, Shami might return during the home season that begins with Bangladesh Tests on September 19.&nbsp;

“He (Shami) has started to bowl. The first Test is on 19th September. That was always the goal (him making a comeback by that time). Whether he can make it back to the squad by that time, I'll have to speak with the guys at the NCA,” Gambhir said.&nbsp;

<h2>Is the three-different-team theory a myth?</h2>

Gambhir answered the most talked-about question since his appointment as Team India's head coach, ‘Will India have three different teams for each format going forward?’

Although Gautam didn’t deny that this could happen in future, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said the idea is to have the right players playing the right formats.

“See, eventually these things happen. Transitions happen. We don't have Rohit and Virat in T20Is now. But it won't be like we have three different teams,” Gambhir said during his first presser as India head coach.

Meanwhile, Agarkar noted, “Yeah, we don't plan on that. We just need to find the right combination of players, who can suit across different formats.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir shared his thoughts on his relationship with veteran batter Virat Kohli, saying the bond he shares with Kohli is not for everyone to know and definitely not for TRP.

Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir shared his thoughts on his relationship with veteran batter Virat Kohli, saying the bond he shares with Kohli is not for everyone to know and definitely not for TRP. Gambhir, who has a history with Kohli, including their latest verbal brawl during last year’s IPL, added Kohli and he represent 140 crore Indians, and at the end of the day, that matters. "What kind of a relationship I have with Virat Kohli is not for TRP. At the moment, we are representing India, we are representing 140 crore Indians. I have an excellent relationship with him off the field,” Gambhir said when asked about his connection with his former teammate. ALSO READ: Selectors explain why Ravindra Jadeja is ‘rested’ and ‘not dropped’ for Sri Lanka ODIs Meanwhile, Virat and Gautam have played together for Delhi in domestic cricket and later for India across formats for several years. Two aggressive yet stylish cricketers have had some bitter memories to look back also, beginning with an on-field brawl during an IPL season over a decade ago. Following Kohli’s wicket during that game (where Kohli was playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gambhir was leading Kolkata Knight Riders), both aggressively approached each other, only for others to interrupt and separate them. “But, it's not for the public. It's not important how many chats I've had with him during or after the game. He is a thorough professional and a world-class athlete, and hopefully, he will continue that way,” Gambhir continued. Gambhir on Shami’s return Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami got ruled out of on-field with an ankle injury following the home World Cup last year and has been on the sidelines since. Upon undergoing surgery in London earlier this year, Shami returned home and, per Gambhir, has also started bowling. Though he will miss the white-ball leg against Sri Lanka, consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs starting July 27, Shami might return during the home season that begins with Bangladesh Tests on September 19. “He (Shami) has started to bowl. The first Test is on 19th September. That was always the goal (him making a comeback by that time). Whether he can make it back to the squad by that time, I'll have to speak with the guys at the NCA,” Gambhir said. Is the three-different-team theory a myth? Gambhir answered the most talked-about question since his appointment as Team India's head coach, ‘Will India have three different teams for each format going forward?’ Although Gautam didn’t deny that this could happen in future, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said the idea is to have the right players playing the right formats. “See, eventually these things happen. Transitions happen. We don't have Rohit and Virat in T20Is now. But it won't be like we have three different teams,” Gambhir said during his first presser as India head coach. Meanwhile, Agarkar noted, “Yeah, we don't plan on that. We just need to find the right combination of players, who can suit across different formats.” (With inputs from agencies)

India coach Gambhir opens up on relationship with Virat Kohli; provides update on Mohammed Shami’s return

Two stalwarts of Indian Cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are not done with their careers yet, and if new coach Gautam Gambhir’s words are to be believed, both can play till the next ODI World Cup in 2027, provided they stay fit. Virat and Rohit announced their T20I retirements following the World Cup win in the Americas but were picked in the 15-man ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series, starting July 27.

Speaking highly of the most successful India pair in the past decade, Gautam said both could continue contributing to the team's success for a few more years. Keeping an eye on the upcoming schedule, including a busy home season followed by five Tests Down Under and then the Champions Trophy in February, Kohli and Rohit have plenty to look forward to and deliver on the big stage.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-coach-gambhir-opens-up-on-relationship-with-virat-kohli-provides-update-on-mohammed-shamis-return-742981">India coach Gambhir opens up on relationship with Virat Kohli; provides update on Mohammed Shami’s return</a>

"I think they have shown what they can deliver on the big stage, whether it's the T20 World Cup or the 50-over World Cup as well," Gambhir said during his maiden presser as Team India’s head coach.

"One thing I can be very clear of is that both those guys have a lot of cricket left in them. More importantly, with the Champions Trophy [in 2025] and a big tour of Australia [in November 2024], obviously, they would be motivated enough. And then, hopefully, if they can keep their fitness, the 2027 [ODI] World Cup as well,” he continued.

Re-emphasising the importance of cricket being a team sport, Gautam said the decision to stick around till then remains personal to both and that any call made will be looking at the team's benefit.&nbsp;

"But this is a very personal decision. I can't say how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately, it's up to them as well, it's up to the players. How much can they contribute to the team's success because, ultimately, it's the team that is important.

"But looking at what Virat and Rohit can deliver, I think they still have a lot of cricket [left to play]. They're still world-class players, and obviously, any team would want to have both of them for as long as possible,” Gambhir continued.

<h2>Workload management</h2>

Rohit, 37, Kohli, 35, and Bumrah (Team India’s best bowler across formats) are three key players, and Gambhir believes managing their workload is in the best interest of Indian cricket.

"I've said it before, workload management for someone like Jasprit (Bumrah) is important. He is one rare bowler, which anyone would want. You want him to play important games. That's why the workload management for not just him but fast bowlers is important."&nbsp;

"If you are a batter, who's batting well, you might as well just play all formats. Rohit and Virat have retired from T20Is now, so they will play two formats from now. Hopefully, they are available for most of the games,” Gambhir said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as the new coach until the next ODI World Cup, will begin his stint with the away Sri Lanka series.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two stalwarts of Indian Cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are not done with their careers yet, and if new coach Gautam Gambhir’s words are to be believed, both can play till the next ODI World Cup in 2027, provided they stay fit.

Two stalwarts of Indian Cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are not done with their careers yet, and if new coach Gautam Gambhir’s words are to be believed, both can play till the next ODI World Cup in 2027, provided they stay fit. Virat and Rohit announced their T20I retirements following the World Cup win in the Americas but were picked in the 15-man ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series, starting July 27. Speaking highly of the most successful India pair in the past decade, Gautam said both could continue contributing to the team's success for a few more years. Keeping an eye on the upcoming schedule, including a busy home season followed by five Tests Down Under and then the Champions Trophy in February, Kohli and Rohit have plenty to look forward to and deliver on the big stage. ALSO READ: India coach Gambhir opens up on relationship with Virat Kohli; provides update on Mohammed Shami’s return "I think they have shown what they can deliver on the big stage, whether it's the T20 World Cup or the 50-over World Cup as well," Gambhir said during his maiden presser as Team India’s head coach. "One thing I can be very clear of is that both those guys have a lot of cricket left in them. More importantly, with the Champions Trophy [in 2025] and a big tour of Australia [in November 2024], obviously, they would be motivated enough. And then, hopefully, if they can keep their fitness, the 2027 [ODI] World Cup as well,” he continued. Re-emphasising the importance of cricket being a team sport, Gautam said the decision to stick around till then remains personal to both and that any call made will be looking at the team's benefit. "But this is a very personal decision. I can't say how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately, it's up to them as well, it's up to the players. How much can they contribute to the team's success because, ultimately, it's the team that is important. "But looking at what Virat and Rohit can deliver, I think they still have a lot of cricket [left to play]. They're still world-class players, and obviously, any team would want to have both of them for as long as possible,” Gambhir continued. Workload management Rohit, 37, Kohli, 35, and Bumrah (Team India’s best bowler across formats) are three key players, and Gambhir believes managing their workload is in the best interest of Indian cricket. "I've said it before, workload management for someone like Jasprit (Bumrah) is important. He is one rare bowler, which anyone would want. You want him to play important games. That's why the workload management for not just him but fast bowlers is important." "If you are a batter, who's batting well, you might as well just play all formats. Rohit and Virat have retired from T20Is now, so they will play two formats from now. Hopefully, they are available for most of the games,” Gambhir said. Meanwhile, Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as the new coach until the next ODI World Cup, will begin his stint with the away Sri Lanka series. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat, Rohit can play 2027 ODI World Cup if they stay fit: Gautam Gambhir

Mohammed Shami is one of India’s best all-format bowlers and perhaps the most successful in the 50-over World Cups. However, despite star performances across the past two editions (2019 and 2023), wherein he picked 38 wickets in just 11 matches, including several five-fors and a seven-wicket haul in the semis last year, Shami questioned Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri's tactics during the 2019 edition.

Recalling the decisions made by the captain and the coach during the 2019 World Cup in England, Shami said despite picking a hat-trick (against Afghanistan) and ten more wickets in the remaining three games that he played, he got dropped from the playing XI from the final league game (against Sri Lanka) and subsequently against New Zealand (in the semis), which India lost and got knocked out of the tournament.

Speaking on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube show, ‘Unplugged,’ Shami sounded clueless about management’s call over his selection in the XI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/womens-asia-cup-2024-deepti-sharma-smriti-mandhana-lead-indias-charge-as-women-in-blue-hammer-pakistan-742470">Women's Asia Cup 2024: Deepti Sharma, Smriti Mandhana lead India's charge as Women in Blue hammer Pakistan</a>

Meanwhile, much like last year when he got a chance after the first four matches, Shami suffered the same fate during the 2019 edition, wherein he got picked for the first time during the mid-tournament.

“In 2019, I did not play the first 4-5 games. In the next game, I took a hat-trick, then picked up a five-wicket haul and then four wickets in the next game. A similar happened in 2023. I did not play in the first few games and then picked a fifer, then four wickets and then a five-wicket haul again,” Shami said during the show.

“The one thing I keep wondering is every team needs players who can perform well. I took 13 wickets in three matches. What more do you expect from me? I neither have questions nor do I have answers. I can only prove myself when I get the opportunity.&nbsp;

“You gave me a chance, and I took 13 wickets in three matches. Then we lost to New Zealand. I played four matches overall and picked 14 wickets. In 2023, I picked 24 wickets in seven matches,” the India ace seamer added.

<h2>Shami prepares for comeback</h2>

Out with an ankle injury he suffered during the 2023 World Cup, seamer Shami aims to return to the cricket field during the upcoming home season, starting with Bangladesh Tests in September.&nbsp;

As Team India gets ready for a new season under Gautam Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Shami will eye a spot in the XI across formats, preparing for the five Tests Down Under starting November and the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan early next year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Shami is one of India’s best all-format bowlers and perhaps the most successful in the 50-over World Cups. However, despite star performances across the past two editions (2019 and 2023), wherein he picked 38 wickets in just 11 matches, including several five-fors and a seven-wicket haul in the semis last year, Shami questioned Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri's tactics during the 2019 edition.

Mohammed Shami is one of India’s best all-format bowlers and perhaps the most successful in the 50-over World Cups. However, despite star performances across the past two editions (2019 and 2023), wherein he picked 38 wickets in just 11 matches, including several five-fors and a seven-wicket haul in the semis last year, Shami questioned Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri's tactics during the 2019 edition. Recalling the decisions made by the captain and the coach during the 2019 World Cup in England, Shami said despite picking a hat-trick (against Afghanistan) and ten more wickets in the remaining three games that he played, he got dropped from the playing XI from the final league game (against Sri Lanka) and subsequently against New Zealand (in the semis), which India lost and got knocked out of the tournament. Speaking on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube show, ‘Unplugged,’ Shami sounded clueless about management’s call over his selection in the XI. ALSO READ: Women's Asia Cup 2024: Deepti Sharma, Smriti Mandhana lead India's charge as Women in Blue hammer Pakistan Meanwhile, much like last year when he got a chance after the first four matches, Shami suffered the same fate during the 2019 edition, wherein he got picked for the first time during the mid-tournament. “In 2019, I did not play the first 4-5 games. In the next game, I took a hat-trick, then picked up a five-wicket haul and then four wickets in the next game. A similar happened in 2023. I did not play in the first few games and then picked a fifer, then four wickets and then a five-wicket haul again,” Shami said during the show. “The one thing I keep wondering is every team needs players who can perform well. I took 13 wickets in three matches. What more do you expect from me? I neither have questions nor do I have answers. I can only prove myself when I get the opportunity. “You gave me a chance, and I took 13 wickets in three matches. Then we lost to New Zealand. I played four matches overall and picked 14 wickets. In 2023, I picked 24 wickets in seven matches,” the India ace seamer added. Shami prepares for comeback Out with an ankle injury he suffered during the 2023 World Cup, seamer Shami aims to return to the cricket field during the upcoming home season, starting with Bangladesh Tests in September. As Team India gets ready for a new season under Gautam Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Shami will eye a spot in the XI across formats, preparing for the five Tests Down Under starting November and the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan early next year. (With inputs from agencies)

Shami questions Kohli-Shastri tactics in 2019 World Cup; sounds clueless over snub from XI despite performance

India beat South Africa by 7 runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, on June 29 to end their 11-year-long ICC title drought and also claim their second T20 WC title. Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bat versus Aiden Markram &amp; Co. but were reeling at 34-3 before Player-of-the-Match Virat Kohli (76) and Axar Patel (47) stitched a valuable 74-run fourth-wicket stand to take India out of troubled waters. The Men in Blue&nbsp;posted 176-7, with Shivam Dube also contributing with a fine 16-ball 27.

In reply, SA were restricted for 169/8, despite&nbsp;needing 30 off 30 balls at one stage, courtesy of Hardik Pandya's 3 for 19 and two-fers each from Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. Recently, spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel recalled his crucial partnership with Kohli and how the latter helped him gain confidence.

Axar was promoted at No. 5, to maintain a left-right batting combination, when Suryakumar Yadav was out for cheap, leaving Kohli stranded at one end. Speaking to Cricbuzz, the 30-year-old recalled, "Rohit bhai was standing beside me when Rishabh Pant got out. He told me 'Axar pads pehen le (Axar, pad up)'. After that (Yuzvendra) Chahal came running to tell me that Rahul (Dravid) Bhai wants me to pad up. When I was padding up I did not know what to do. We were two wickets down and I had still not analysed the pitch. Next I saw Suryakumar (Yadav) also got out. Things happened so suddenly that I did not have time to think. When I was going down the staircase, Hardik told me in Gujarati not to take any stress. 'Just watch the ball and hit the ball,' he said and it stuck with me."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-cricketer-slams-bcci-for-ridiculously-dropping-sanju-samson-from-odi-squad-for-sri-lanka-tour-742199">Former cricketer SLAMS BCCI for 'ridiculously' dropping Sanju Samson from ODI squad for Sri Lanka tour</a>

<h2>'I'm there. If you think that you can hit, then go for it'</h2>

The left-hander started off with a boundary which settled his nerves&nbsp;before Kohli's words pumped&nbsp;him up. He added, "I hit a boundary off the first ball I faced. I became very confident. I spoke to Virat bhai and he kept guiding me. He said, 'I'm there. If you think that you can hit, then go for it.' The constant communication was helpful. The rest is history."

Axar had a good run in the T20 WC, held in West Indies and the USA, with 9 wickets and a crucial knock in the summit clash. He also took a memorable catch of Mitchell Marsh in the India versus Australia Super 8 clash. He will next be seen in action during India's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where he is part of both the squads.

India beat South Africa by 7 runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, on June 29 to end their 11-year-long ICC title drought and also claim their second T20 WC title.

India beat South Africa by 7 runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, on June 29 to end their 11-year-long ICC title drought and also claim their second T20 WC title. Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bat versus Aiden Markram & Co. but were reeling at 34-3 before Player-of-the-Match Virat Kohli (76) and Axar Patel (47) stitched a valuable 74-run fourth-wicket stand to take India out of troubled waters. The Men in Blue posted 176-7, with Shivam Dube also contributing with a fine 16-ball 27. In reply, SA were restricted for 169/8, despite needing 30 off 30 balls at one stage, courtesy of Hardik Pandya's 3 for 19 and two-fers each from Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. Recently, spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel recalled his crucial partnership with Kohli and how the latter helped him gain confidence. Axar was promoted at No. 5, to maintain a left-right batting combination, when Suryakumar Yadav was out for cheap, leaving Kohli stranded at one end. Speaking to Cricbuzz, the 30-year-old recalled, "Rohit bhai was standing beside me when Rishabh Pant got out. He told me 'Axar pads pehen le (Axar, pad up)'. After that (Yuzvendra) Chahal came running to tell me that Rahul (Dravid) Bhai wants me to pad up. When I was padding up I did not know what to do. We were two wickets down and I had still not analysed the pitch. Next I saw Suryakumar (Yadav) also got out. Things happened so suddenly that I did not have time to think. When I was going down the staircase, Hardik told me in Gujarati not to take any stress. 'Just watch the ball and hit the ball,' he said and it stuck with me." Also read: Former cricketer SLAMS BCCI for 'ridiculously' dropping Sanju Samson from ODI squad for Sri Lanka tour 'I'm there. If you think that you can hit, then go for it' The left-hander started off with a boundary which settled his nerves before Kohli's words pumped him up. He added, "I hit a boundary off the first ball I faced. I became very confident. I spoke to Virat bhai and he kept guiding me. He said, 'I'm there. If you think that you can hit, then go for it.' The constant communication was helpful. The rest is history." Axar had a good run in the T20 WC, held in West Indies and the USA, with 9 wickets and a crucial knock in the summit clash. He also took a memorable catch of Mitchell Marsh in the India versus Australia Super 8 clash. He will next be seen in action during India's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where he is part of both the squads.

'If you think you can...': Axar Patel recalls Virat Kohli's words during crucial partnership in T20 WC final

A new look Team India is all set to make its mark as Gautam Gambhir officially makes his coaching debut for the Men in Blue when they take on Sri Lanka at the end of the month. In an announcement made on Thursday (July 18), Suryakumar Yadav was officially declared&nbsp; as the new captain of the T20I side ahead of Hardik Pandya while Shubman Gill was named his deputy. Meanwhile, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will return to the side during the ODI series, which will be their first since the T20 World Cup final win against South Africa at the end of June.

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<h2>Suryakumar Yadav confirmed as new captain in T20Is</h2>

After speculations were high regarding Suryakumar’s appointment as the new T20I captain, the news was confirmed on Thursday. It is reported that new head coach Gambhir personally requested for Suryakumar to be named as the new skipper ahead of veteran Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder was overlooked entirely and&nbsp;Shubman Gill got the nod as the new vice-captain. Yadav has previously led the Indian side in the T20I format but now takes charge of the side on a permanent basis.

<h2>Rohit, Virat return</h2>

In the ODI side, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will make their comebacks as expected with the former being in charge as the skipper. The duo along with Ravindra Jadeja had announced their retirement from the T20I format after the T20 World Cup win in June, but both will now return to the ODI series, which will serve as the launching pad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Like T20Is, Gill has&nbsp;also been given charge as vice-captain of the ODI side having led the team&nbsp;in the T20I series against Zimbabwe.

<h2>India's squad for Sri Lanka tour</h2>

India's T20I Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj.

ODI Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.

A new look Team India is all set to make its mark as Gautam Gambhir officially makes his coaching debut for the Men in Blue when they take on Sri Lanka at the end of the month.

A new look Team India is all set to make its mark as Gautam Gambhir officially makes his coaching debut for the Men in Blue when they take on Sri Lanka at the end of the month. In an announcement made on Thursday (July 18), Suryakumar Yadav was officially declared as the new captain of the T20I side ahead of Hardik Pandya while Shubman Gill was named his deputy. Meanwhile, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will return to the side during the ODI series, which will be their first since the T20 World Cup final win against South Africa at the end of June. 🚨 News 🚨#TeamIndia's squad for 3 T20Is & 3 ODIs against Sri Lanka announced Read More 🔽 #SLvIND — BCCI (@BCCI) July 18, 2024 × Suryakumar Yadav confirmed as new captain in T20Is After speculations were high regarding Suryakumar’s appointment as the new T20I captain, the news was confirmed on Thursday. It is reported that new head coach Gambhir personally requested for Suryakumar to be named as the new skipper ahead of veteran Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder was overlooked entirely and Shubman Gill got the nod as the new vice-captain. Yadav has previously led the Indian side in the T20I format but now takes charge of the side on a permanent basis. Rohit, Virat return In the ODI side, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will make their comebacks as expected with the former being in charge as the skipper. The duo along with Ravindra Jadeja had announced their retirement from the T20I format after the T20 World Cup win in June, but both will now return to the ODI series, which will serve as the launching pad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Like T20Is, Gill has also been given charge as vice-captain of the ODI side having led the team in the T20I series against Zimbabwe. India's squad for Sri Lanka tour India's T20I Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj. ODI Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.

India tour of Sri Lanka: Suryakumar Yadav confirmed as new T20I captain; Rohit, Virat to play in ODIs

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra made heads turn with his comments on Virat Kohli in a recent interaction. During a chat show on YouTube, the ex-leg spinner stated Kohli isn't the same person and has changed&nbsp;a lot since gaining fame and power whereas Rohit Sharma remains unchanged. His remark on Kohli went viral but now former Indian opener Robin Uthappa has hailed Kohli's evolution from a brash young Delhi boy to an evolved human being.

Speaking on cricket.com/tv, Uthappa said, "I have actually seen Virat kind of evolve from a brash young Delhi boy to an evolved human being. You know the evolution has been quite tremendous, to be honest. Today he's practically reaping what he had sown 15 years ago."

"One of the things that has always stood out to me about Cheeku has been his conviction in himself. When I listen to a young 19-year-old Virat Kohli, you know talking about himself or his conviction in himself, you'll get mortified, you'll be like 'What is this dude talking about?'. "But fast forward 10 years and you be like 'Okay now that makes sense.'"

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-2027-odi-wc-former-indian-spinner-predicts-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharmas-retirements-741724">No 2027 ODI WC? Former Indian spinner predicts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's retirements</a>

Uthappa, the 2007 T20 World Cup winner, further&nbsp;opined that despite being super successful, Kohli is 'obsessed' with working hard. He added, "A lot of these things is all fluff and no stuff, but Virat showed us that there was stuff behind the talk as well. He is obsessed. I remember went last year to interview some of the RCB boys, and finished his interview, and then the next thing you know that he's in the gym, and he doesn't need to be, but he was there in the gym, hashing out an hour-long workout before he went back and spent time with his family."

At 35, Kohli is possibly in the last phase of his glittering international career. The former Indian captain has played 113 Tests where he has&nbsp;8,848 runs at&nbsp;49.15 along with&nbsp;29 centuries. In ODIs, Kohli has a whopping&nbsp;13,848 in 292 matches at an average of 58.67 with as many as 50 centuries under his belt. After India's 2024 T20 WC triumph last month, he retired from T20Is -- ending with 4,188 runs (second-most) in 125 games.

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra made heads turn with his comments on Virat Kohli in a recent interaction. During a chat show on YouTube, the ex-leg spinner stated Kohli isn't the same person and has changed a lot since gaining fame and power whereas Rohit Sharma remains unchanged.

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra made heads turn with his comments on Virat Kohli in a recent interaction. During a chat show on YouTube, the ex-leg spinner stated Kohli isn't the same person and has changed a lot since gaining fame and power whereas Rohit Sharma remains unchanged. His remark on Kohli went viral but now former Indian opener Robin Uthappa has hailed Kohli's evolution from a brash young Delhi boy to an evolved human being. Speaking on cricket.com/tv, Uthappa said, "I have actually seen Virat kind of evolve from a brash young Delhi boy to an evolved human being. You know the evolution has been quite tremendous, to be honest. Today he's practically reaping what he had sown 15 years ago." "One of the things that has always stood out to me about Cheeku has been his conviction in himself. When I listen to a young 19-year-old Virat Kohli, you know talking about himself or his conviction in himself, you'll get mortified, you'll be like 'What is this dude talking about?'. "But fast forward 10 years and you be like 'Okay now that makes sense.'" Also read: No 2027 ODI WC? Former Indian spinner predicts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's retirements Uthappa, the 2007 T20 World Cup winner, further opined that despite being super successful, Kohli is 'obsessed' with working hard. He added, "A lot of these things is all fluff and no stuff, but Virat showed us that there was stuff behind the talk as well. He is obsessed. I remember went last year to interview some of the RCB boys, and finished his interview, and then the next thing you know that he's in the gym, and he doesn't need to be, but he was there in the gym, hashing out an hour-long workout before he went back and spent time with his family." At 35, Kohli is possibly in the last phase of his glittering international career. The former Indian captain has played 113 Tests where he has 8,848 runs at 49.15 along with 29 centuries. In ODIs, Kohli has a whopping 13,848 in 292 matches at an average of 58.67 with as many as 50 centuries under his belt. After India's 2024 T20 WC triumph last month, he retired from T20Is -- ending with 4,188 runs (second-most) in 125 games.

'Seen him evolve from brash young Delhi boy to...': Former India batter on Virat Kohli after Mishra's take

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra predicted Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's international retirements. During a recent interaction, Mishra -- a veteran of 22 Tests, 36&nbsp;ODIs and 10 T20Is -- predicted that both Kohli and Rohit will retire 'in another 2-3 years', ruling them out of the 2027 ODI World Cup. The former spinner feels both the stalwarts will end their careers soon because if they don't, the&nbsp;younger crop of players&nbsp;might suffer.

<h2>'How else will new players get in?'</h2>

On the YouTube show 'Unplugged', Mishra said, "In another 2-3 years. Playing the World Cup [2027] looks tough. He has 3-4 years of cricket left, but for India not much. He will retire and continue playing the IPL. Same with Virat Kohli. As it should be. How else will new players get in? One is 37, the other will turn 36 soon. They'll be 38-39 in the next two years. At max, 40. That's usually how long cricketers play."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gambhir-agarkar-inform-hardik-about-last-minute-captaincy-change-as-surya-to-be-indias-t20i-captain-report-741707">Gambhir, Agarkar inform Hardik about last-minute captaincy change as Surya to be India's T20I captain: Report</a>

Rohit and Kohli, the superstar duo retired from T20Is soon after India won the 2024 T20 World Cup, held in West Indies and the USA, last month. However, they look determined to continue in the longer formats, with many ICC titles up for grabs for India.

India looks destined to qualify for the next WTC final, in June 2025, and will also compete in the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan in February-March. Hence, the two will look to add to India's ICC titles in the coming years. However, the next edition of the ODI WC is far away and will be too tough for both Rohit and Kohli to continue till then.

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra predicted Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's international retirements. During a recent interaction, Mishra -- a veteran of 22 Tests, 36 ODIs and 10 T20Is -- predicted that both Kohli and Rohit will retire 'in another 2-3 years', ruling them out of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra predicted Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's international retirements. During a recent interaction, Mishra -- a veteran of 22 Tests, 36 ODIs and 10 T20Is -- predicted that both Kohli and Rohit will retire 'in another 2-3 years', ruling them out of the 2027 ODI World Cup. The former spinner feels both the stalwarts will end their careers soon because if they don't, the younger crop of players might suffer. 'How else will new players get in?' On the YouTube show 'Unplugged', Mishra said, "In another 2-3 years. Playing the World Cup [2027] looks tough. He has 3-4 years of cricket left, but for India not much. He will retire and continue playing the IPL. Same with Virat Kohli. As it should be. How else will new players get in? One is 37, the other will turn 36 soon. They'll be 38-39 in the next two years. At max, 40. That's usually how long cricketers play." Also read: Gambhir, Agarkar inform Hardik about last-minute captaincy change as Surya to be India's T20I captain: Report Rohit and Kohli, the superstar duo retired from T20Is soon after India won the 2024 T20 World Cup, held in West Indies and the USA, last month. However, they look determined to continue in the longer formats, with many ICC titles up for grabs for India. India looks destined to qualify for the next WTC final, in June 2025, and will also compete in the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan in February-March. Hence, the two will look to add to India's ICC titles in the coming years. However, the next edition of the ODI WC is far away and will be too tough for both Rohit and Kohli to continue till then.

No 2027 ODI WC? Former Indian spinner predicts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's retirements

Parthiv Patel recalled his stint at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and lashed out at the team management for their starry culture, where they have always given preferance to some big names -- such as Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle -- and not created a team culture. The former Indian stumper, who has been part of several IPL teams during his playing days, was associated with the RCB in 2014 and rejoined them from 2018-2020. During his first stint with the RCB, Kohli, ABD and Gayle were the main players for the franchise whereas the West Indian wasn't part of the camp during Patel's second stopping from 2018 to 2020.

<h2>'Kohli, ABD and Gayle&nbsp;were given special preference so the team culture was not there'</h2>

Speaking on Cyrus Says Podcast, Parthiv&nbsp;recalled his RCB stints and said, "I played for RCB, I've have been there for four years. The team is always about individuals it's not about the team. And then everyone will come out of that team will say that. Because it's all about Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle when I was in the team. So they were given the kind of special preference always so there the team culture was not there you can see clearly when they are playing, and that is the reason why they haven't won the trophies. That's the fact."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-was-completely-rohit-sharma-recalls-last-overs-drama-during-indias-t20-wc-final-win-vs-south-africa-741388">'I was completely...': Rohit Sharma recalls last overs' drama during India's T20 WC final win vs South Africa</a>

Parthiv amassed 526 runs in 20 matches overall for the RCB franchise. During his RCB stint, the franchise only made it to the playoffs in 2020 (when he didn't find a spot in the playing XI throughout the season).&nbsp;

Talking about Kohli, ABD and Gayle, the trio remain RCB's highest run-getters. Kohli tops the chart with 8,428 runs, followed by De Villiers (4,500) and Gayle (3,420). At present, Kohli remains a part of the RCB line-up -- with Gayle being out of IPL and De Villiers retiring in 2021. The Indian star batter ended with 741 runs in IPL 2024 with the Faf du Plessis-led RCB side ending fourth in this year's edition.

Parthiv Patel recalled his stint at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and lashed out at the team management for their starry culture, where they have always given preferance to some big names -- such as Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle -- and not created a team culture.

Parthiv Patel recalled his stint at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and lashed out at the team management for their starry culture, where they have always given preferance to some big names -- such as Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle -- and not created a team culture. The former Indian stumper, who has been part of several IPL teams during his playing days, was associated with the RCB in 2014 and rejoined them from 2018-2020. During his first stint with the RCB, Kohli, ABD and Gayle were the main players for the franchise whereas the West Indian wasn't part of the camp during Patel's second stopping from 2018 to 2020. 'Kohli, ABD and Gayle were given special preference so the team culture was not there' Speaking on Cyrus Says Podcast, Parthiv recalled his RCB stints and said, "I played for RCB, I've have been there for four years. The team is always about individuals it's not about the team. And then everyone will come out of that team will say that. Because it's all about Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle when I was in the team. So they were given the kind of special preference always so there the team culture was not there you can see clearly when they are playing, and that is the reason why they haven't won the trophies. That's the fact." Also read: 'I was completely...': Rohit Sharma recalls last overs' drama during India's T20 WC final win vs South Africa Parthiv amassed 526 runs in 20 matches overall for the RCB franchise. During his RCB stint, the franchise only made it to the playoffs in 2020 (when he didn't find a spot in the playing XI throughout the season). Talking about Kohli, ABD and Gayle, the trio remain RCB's highest run-getters. Kohli tops the chart with 8,428 runs, followed by De Villiers (4,500) and Gayle (3,420). At present, Kohli remains a part of the RCB line-up -- with Gayle being out of IPL and De Villiers retiring in 2021. The Indian star batter ended with 741 runs in IPL 2024 with the Faf du Plessis-led RCB side ending fourth in this year's edition.

'It's all about Kohli, De Villiers, & Gayle': Parthiv recalls RCB stint, says 'team always about individuals'

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra opened up on Virat Kohli's IPL 2023 feud with Gautam Gambhir. In a recent interaction, Mishra recalled the epic face-off between Gambhir and Kohli during Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) home clash versus the then-known Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2023. Kohli took a jibe at Lucknow pacer Naveen-ul-Haq and Kyle Mayers, after the game, which wasn't well received by LSG mentor Gambhir and the two came face-to-face before being separated from others. Nonetheless, the two moved past this on-field feud during IPL 2024. Mishra, who has been part of the LSG camp since the franchise's addition in 2022, opened up on the Gambhir-Kohli face-off and revealed that it was the former who ended things peacefully.&nbsp;

<h2>'Gautam showed his big heart at that time. It should have been Kohli...'</h2>

Speaking on YouTuber Shubhankar Mishra's show, Mishra said, "I saw a good thing about Gautam. Virat Kohli didn't go towards him, Gautam went towards him. He went and asked, 'How are you, how's your family.' So it was Gautam who ended the feud and not Kohli." He added, "So Gautam showed his big heart at that time. It should have been Kohli who should have gone and ended the feud. He should have gone and said 'Gauti bhai, let's end this'."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-not-the-same-after-fame-and-power-rohit-sharma-unchanged-former-indian-spinners-big-claim-741292">Virat Kohli not the same after fame and power, Rohit Sharma unchanged: Former Indian spinner's BIG claim</a>

Both Gambhir and Kohli were also involved in a heated exchange during IPL 2013. Back then, Kohli was captaining the RCB whereas Gambhir was in charge of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp. While they moved past it and played together for India after that, the IPL 2023 face-off made heads turn. However, the duo once again patched things up in IPL 2024, when Gambhir was mentoring KKR whereas Kohli remained an integral part of the RCB camp (now known as Royal Challengers Bengaluru).&nbsp;

Gambhir and Kohli will now work together once again in the Indian team, with the former replacing Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. He will hold the post until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra opened up on Virat Kohli's IPL 2023 feud with Gautam Gambhir. In a recent interaction, Mishra recalled the epic face-off between Gambhir and Kohli during Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) home clash versus the then-known Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2023.

Former Indian spinner Amit Mishra opened up on Virat Kohli's IPL 2023 feud with Gautam Gambhir. In a recent interaction, Mishra recalled the epic face-off between Gambhir and Kohli during Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) home clash versus the then-known Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2023. Kohli took a jibe at Lucknow pacer Naveen-ul-Haq and Kyle Mayers, after the game, which wasn't well received by LSG mentor Gambhir and the two came face-to-face before being separated from others. Nonetheless, the two moved past this on-field feud during IPL 2024. Mishra, who has been part of the LSG camp since the franchise's addition in 2022, opened up on the Gambhir-Kohli face-off and revealed that it was the former who ended things peacefully. 'Gautam showed his big heart at that time. It should have been Kohli...' Speaking on YouTuber Shubhankar Mishra's show, Mishra said, "I saw a good thing about Gautam. Virat Kohli didn't go towards him, Gautam went towards him. He went and asked, 'How are you, how's your family.' So it was Gautam who ended the feud and not Kohli." He added, "So Gautam showed his big heart at that time. It should have been Kohli who should have gone and ended the feud. He should have gone and said 'Gauti bhai, let's end this'." Also read: Virat Kohli not the same after fame and power, Rohit Sharma unchanged: Former Indian spinner's BIG claim Both Gambhir and Kohli were also involved in a heated exchange during IPL 2013. Back then, Kohli was captaining the RCB whereas Gambhir was in charge of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp. While they moved past it and played together for India after that, the IPL 2023 face-off made heads turn. However, the duo once again patched things up in IPL 2024, when Gambhir was mentoring KKR whereas Kohli remained an integral part of the RCB camp (now known as Royal Challengers Bengaluru). Gambhir and Kohli will now work together once again in the Indian team, with the former replacing Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. He will hold the post until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Gambhir ended feud with Virat Kohli, should have been other way: Mishra recalls IPL 2023's epic face-off

India batter Virat Kohli has shared a special message for the Indian athletes taking part in the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024 which starts from July 26.

Taking to social media platform X, Kohli shared a video and said: "India, Bharat, Hindustan. There was a time when the world could only think of India as a land of snake charmers and elephants. Over time, that has changed. Today we are known to the world as the largest democracy. A global tech hub. We are known for cricket, for Bollywood, for start-up unicorns and as the fastest growing economy in the world."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/it-is-mandatory-pcb-gives-stern-warning-to-bcci-over-not-travelling-for-champions-trophy-2025-741116">'It is mandatory...,' PCB gives stern warning to BCCI over not travelling for Champions Trophy 2025</a>

"So, what is the next big thing for this great nation? Well, there will be more gold, more silver and more bronze. Our brothers and sisters are headed to Paris hungry for medals. A billion of us will be watching them nervous and excited as our athletes set foot on the track and fields and coats and things."&nbsp;

"Every neighbourhood, every corner of India, you will hear a chorus of voices chanting India, India, India! Join me in remembering their faces as they inch closer to the podium with the dogged determination of waving the Tiranga with pride," he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
From dreams to medals.🏅 
It's time to back our athletes as they step foot into Paris!✊🏼🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/IIS_Vijayanagar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IIS_Vijayanagar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StayWrogn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StayWrogn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaiHind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaiHind</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreTeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoadToParis2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoadToParis2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayWrogn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayWrogn</a> <a href="https://t.co/pbi7TYWjsN">pic.twitter.com/pbi7TYWjsN</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1812722597177741504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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India has sent a contingent of a total 118 athletes for the Summer Games with 48 women and 70 men athletes. These players will represent India in 16 games across the tournament.

India's medal hopes lie majorly with 2021 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and ace badminton player PV Sindhu among others.

India had won one gold, two silver and four bronze medals in the last edition in Tokyo. Apart from Chopra's gold, Ravi Kumar Dahiya (wrestling) and Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting) won silver medals while Sindhu, Bajrang Punia (wrestling), Lovlina Borgohain (boxing) and Indian men's hockey team managed to win a bronze medal.

India batter Virat Kohli has shared a special message for the Indian athletes taking part in the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024 which starts from July 26. Taking to social media platform X, Kohli shared a video and said: "India, Bharat, Hindustan.

India batter Virat Kohli has shared a special message for the Indian athletes taking part in the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024 which starts from July 26. Taking to social media platform X, Kohli shared a video and said: "India, Bharat, Hindustan. There was a time when the world could only think of India as a land of snake charmers and elephants. Over time, that has changed. Today we are known to the world as the largest democracy. A global tech hub. We are known for cricket, for Bollywood, for start-up unicorns and as the fastest growing economy in the world." Also Read: 'It is mandatory...,' PCB gives stern warning to BCCI over not travelling for Champions Trophy 2025 "So, what is the next big thing for this great nation? Well, there will be more gold, more silver and more bronze. Our brothers and sisters are headed to Paris hungry for medals. A billion of us will be watching them nervous and excited as our athletes set foot on the track and fields and coats and things." "Every neighbourhood, every corner of India, you will hear a chorus of voices chanting India, India, India! Join me in remembering their faces as they inch closer to the podium with the dogged determination of waving the Tiranga with pride," he added. From dreams to medals.🏅 It's time to back our athletes as they step foot into Paris!✊🏼🇮🇳@IIS_Vijayanagar @StayWrogn #JaiHind #WeAreTeamIndia #Paris2024 #RoadToParis2024 #StayWrogn pic.twitter.com/pbi7TYWjsN — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 15, 2024 × India has sent a contingent of a total 118 athletes for the Summer Games with 48 women and 70 men athletes. These players will represent India in 16 games across the tournament. India's medal hopes lie majorly with 2021 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and ace badminton player PV Sindhu among others. India had won one gold, two silver and four bronze medals in the last edition in Tokyo. Apart from Chopra's gold, Ravi Kumar Dahiya (wrestling) and Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting) won silver medals while Sindhu, Bajrang Punia (wrestling), Lovlina Borgohain (boxing) and Indian men's hockey team managed to win a bronze medal.

Paris Olympics 2024: 'India, Bharat, Hindustan,' Virat Kohli's special message to Indian athletes | WATCH

Former India captain and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly broke silence on replacing Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as all-format skipper during his tenure. Ganguly said going by how things unfolded surrounding the captaincy saga involving Virat, everyone on social media criticised and abused him, adding that since India won the T20 World Cup under Rohit, everyone seems to have forgotten who took that call in the first place.

In 2021, ahead of the T20 World Cup in the UAE, Kohli announced his decision to step down from T20I captaincy, citing workload management as the reason behind it.&nbsp;

With Team India exiting the tournament inside the Group Stages after losing to Pakistan and New Zealand, a few shocking calls afterwards took the nation by surprise, as a few months later, Kohli announced he was stepping down from the ODI and Test captaincy.

Meanwhile, Kohli, during an explosive presser on the 2021/22 South Africa Tour, admitted he was informed 90 minutes before the team selection meeting (for Proteas ODIs) that he was being replaced by Rohit as the ODI captain. That statement, however, contradicted what made headlines later, with several reports suggesting that Kohli knew about this decision change much before.&nbsp;

After losing the Test series, he decided to quit Test captaincy as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-prioritises-international-calendar-as-board-rejects-noc-to-top-stars-for-franchise-based-leagues-740681">PCB prioritises international calendar as board rejects NOC to top stars for franchise-based leagues</a>

The then BCCI President, Ganguly, faced plenty of flak for how things unfolded with Kohli, with fans bashing and abusing the former India great for his apparent ego clashes with Virat.

Three years later since that episode, and at a time when under Rohit and former head coach Rahul Dravid India won the T20 World Cup in the Americas, Ganguly reflected on the same and said, “When I handed Rohit Sharma the captaincy of the Indian team, everyone criticised me,” Ganguly said in a chat with Aaj Tak.&nbsp;

“Now that India has won the T20 World Cup under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, everyone has stopped abusing me for it. In fact, I think everyone has forgotten that it was I who appointed him as the captain of the Indian team,” he continued.

<h2>A new era begins in Indian Cricket</h2>

With the conclusion of the 20-team tournament in the USA and West Indies, Dravid’s tenure as head coach ended, and Rohit also announced his decision to quit T20Is.&nbsp;

Although he continues to lead Team India in ODIs and Tests, someone new will replace him as India’s T20I captain; that decision, however, will now be taken under the new head coach and former two-time World Cup-winner, Gautam Gambhir.&nbsp;

Gautam will take over the proceedings from the white-ball Sri Lanka Tour, including three T20Is and as many ODIs, starting July 27.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India captain and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly broke silence on replacing Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as all-format skipper during his tenure. Ganguly said going by how things unfolded surrounding the captaincy saga involving Virat, everyone on social media criticised and abused him, adding that since India won the T20 World Cup under Rohit, everyone seems to have forgotten who took that call in the first place.

Former India captain and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly broke silence on replacing Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as all-format skipper during his tenure. Ganguly said going by how things unfolded surrounding the captaincy saga involving Virat, everyone on social media criticised and abused him, adding that since India won the T20 World Cup under Rohit, everyone seems to have forgotten who took that call in the first place. In 2021, ahead of the T20 World Cup in the UAE, Kohli announced his decision to step down from T20I captaincy, citing workload management as the reason behind it. With Team India exiting the tournament inside the Group Stages after losing to Pakistan and New Zealand, a few shocking calls afterwards took the nation by surprise, as a few months later, Kohli announced he was stepping down from the ODI and Test captaincy. Meanwhile, Kohli, during an explosive presser on the 2021/22 South Africa Tour, admitted he was informed 90 minutes before the team selection meeting (for Proteas ODIs) that he was being replaced by Rohit as the ODI captain. That statement, however, contradicted what made headlines later, with several reports suggesting that Kohli knew about this decision change much before. After losing the Test series, he decided to quit Test captaincy as well. ALSO READ: PCB prioritises international calendar as board rejects NOC to top stars for franchise-based leagues The then BCCI President, Ganguly, faced plenty of flak for how things unfolded with Kohli, with fans bashing and abusing the former India great for his apparent ego clashes with Virat. Three years later since that episode, and at a time when under Rohit and former head coach Rahul Dravid India won the T20 World Cup in the Americas, Ganguly reflected on the same and said, “When I handed Rohit Sharma the captaincy of the Indian team, everyone criticised me,” Ganguly said in a chat with Aaj Tak. “Now that India has won the T20 World Cup under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, everyone has stopped abusing me for it. In fact, I think everyone has forgotten that it was I who appointed him as the captain of the Indian team,” he continued. A new era begins in Indian Cricket With the conclusion of the 20-team tournament in the USA and West Indies, Dravid’s tenure as head coach ended, and Rohit also announced his decision to quit T20Is. Although he continues to lead Team India in ODIs and Tests, someone new will replace him as India’s T20I captain; that decision, however, will now be taken under the new head coach and former two-time World Cup-winner, Gautam Gambhir. Gautam will take over the proceedings from the white-ball Sri Lanka Tour, including three T20Is and as many ODIs, starting July 27. (With inputs from agencies)

Ganguly on replacing Kohli with Rohit as India captain - ‘When I appointed him everyone was abusing...'

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