<p>Veteran England speedster James Anderson has termed Virat Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England as “shameful” after the latter decided to miss all five matches. Virat, who is on paternity leave after becoming a father for the second time was supposed to participate in the latter stage of the series but opted to stay away. In Virat’s absence, India won the five-match series 3-1 with still a Test match to go in Dharamsala.</p>

<h2><strong>Anderson comments on Virat</strong></h2>

<p>“Yeah, you always want to play against the best players. And it’s been a shame that he’s not been a part of the series. We have had some great battles over the years. But not just for me, I think as a team you want to play against the best in the world and he certainly is that” Anderson said on JioCinema.</p>

<p>“I guess English fans will be thankful he’s not playing because he’s such a quality player. But from our point of view, you want to test yourself, you want to come up against the best and he’s been someone who I’ve found really challenging to bowl at over the years and it’s a shame he’s not been playing,” Anderson added.</p>

<p>Interestingly, with James Anderson now 41, it is highly unlikely that the speedster and&nbsp;Virat could meet again in a competitive match.</p>

<p>Virat, poised to play against England against whom he has 1,991 Test runs, requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to stay away from cricket and skipped the important series. Virat needed 52 more runs to make England his statistically favourite Test-playing nation in terms of runs having only scored more Test runs against Australia (2042 runs). However,&nbsp;he now has to wait for another series to achieve the feat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-cup-winner-and-mp-gautam-gambhir-requests-ruling-bjp-for-release-from-political-duties-695777">Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP for release from political duties</a></p>

<p>India lost the Hyderabad Test and were down 0-1 before launching a fightback in the absence of Virat. Rohit Sharma’s men won the Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi Tests on a trot to hand&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;his first series defeat as the captain of the national side. Since he took over the reins of the side in June 2022, England had not lost a series before India came good at them.</p>

<p>The two sides will next meet on Thursday (Mar 7) in the final Test match in Dharamsala.&nbsp;India will bring&nbsp;back Jasprit Bumrah for the match, while KL Rahul has been&nbsp;ruled out. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel, Player of the Match in Ranchi, will continue to don the gloves for Team India.</p>


Veteran England speedster James Anderson has termed Virat Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England as “shameful” after the latter decided to miss all five matches.

Veteran England speedster James Anderson has termed Virat Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England as “shameful” after the latter decided to miss all five matches. Virat, who is on paternity leave after becoming a father for the second time was supposed to participate in the latter stage of the series but opted to stay away. In Virat’s absence, India won the five-match series 3-1 with still a Test match to go in Dharamsala. Anderson comments on Virat “Yeah, you always want to play against the best players. And it’s been a shame that he’s not been a part of the series. We have had some great battles over the years. But not just for me, I think as a team you want to play against the best in the world and he certainly is that” Anderson said on JioCinema. “I guess English fans will be thankful he’s not playing because he’s such a quality player. But from our point of view, you want to test yourself, you want to come up against the best and he’s been someone who I’ve found really challenging to bowl at over the years and it’s a shame he’s not been playing,” Anderson added. Interestingly, with James Anderson now 41, it is highly unlikely that the speedster and Virat could meet again in a competitive match. Virat, poised to play against England against whom he has 1,991 Test runs, requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to stay away from cricket and skipped the important series. Virat needed 52 more runs to make England his statistically favourite Test-playing nation in terms of runs having only scored more Test runs against Australia (2042 runs). However, he now has to wait for another series to achieve the feat. ALSO READ | Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP for release from political duties India lost the Hyderabad Test and were down 0-1 before launching a fightback in the absence of Virat. Rohit Sharma’s men won the Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi Tests on a trot to hand Ben Stokes his first series defeat as the captain of the national side. Since he took over the reins of the side in June 2022, England had not lost a series before India came good at them. The two sides will next meet on Thursday (Mar 7) in the final Test match in Dharamsala. India will bring back Jasprit Bumrah for the match, while KL Rahul has been ruled out. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel, Player of the Match in Ranchi, will continue to don the gloves for Team India.

IND vs ENG: James Anderson terms Virat Kohli's absence from Test series a 'shame'

<p>German football giants Bayern Munich have made a bold comparison of two of the best sports personalities in a sensational tweet on their X handle on Tuesday (Feb 27). Bayern, while replying to a trending tweet on X, compared Indian great Virat Kohli to Germany football team captain Manuel Neuer in a cross-sport. While the comparison is trending on the internet, fans were in awe of Bayern seeing the two greats in the same frame.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">⚽ Manuel Neuer 🐐<br />
🏏 Virat Kohli 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/5VTygpZioC">https://t.co/5VTygpZioC</a></p>
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1762487161578828060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Bayern compare&nbsp;Virat, Neuer</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, the German giants posted on their X handle with names of both Virat and Neuer along with a goat emoji indicating their status as greats of the game. Interestingly, both Neuer and Virat have common comparisons including being members of World Cup-winning squads and playing in finals of almost all international tournaments. Their stature at club and franchise level also remains intact with Neuer now in his 13th season with the club while Virat will enter his 17th season with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).</p>

<p>Interestingly at the franchise level, Neuer has enjoyed more success winning the Champions League twice while also winning the German Bundesliga on 11 occasions. Virat’s luck hasn’t been great and has been runner-up in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on three occasions and twice in the now-abolished Champions League.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-not-sunil-gavaskar-opines-on-rishabh-pants-awaited-comeback-during-ipl-2024-694666">'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024</a></p>

<p>While Bayern’s tweet made plenty of headlines, in the recent weeks they have been in headlines for all the wrong reasons. They recently announced the departure of manager Thomas Tuchel after having a poor season compared to the recent years where they have won the Bundesliga. They are eight points behind league leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the German league while getting eliminated in the DFB Pokal early.</p>

<p>Virat on the other hand has been away from cricket after playing in the two-match Test series against South Africa in January. He recently became a father for the second time and skipped the entire Test series against England. Despite his absence, India won the Test series 3-1 having pocketed the wins in Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi. He is expected to be back in action during the IPL 2024 when he represents RCB. In his 16 seasons with the South Indian giants, he is yet to win the IPL and will look to find the missing piece in the puzzle.</p>


German football giants Bayern Munich have made a bold comparison of two of the best sports personalities in a sensational tweet on their X handle on Tuesday (Feb 27).

German football giants Bayern Munich have made a bold comparison of two of the best sports personalities in a sensational tweet on their X handle on Tuesday (Feb 27). Bayern, while replying to a trending tweet on X, compared Indian great Virat Kohli to Germany football team captain Manuel Neuer in a cross-sport. While the comparison is trending on the internet, fans were in awe of Bayern seeing the two greats in the same frame. ⚽ Manuel Neuer 🐐 🏏 Virat Kohli 🐐 https://t.co/5VTygpZioC — FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) February 27, 2024 × Bayern compare Virat, Neuer On Tuesday, the German giants posted on their X handle with names of both Virat and Neuer along with a goat emoji indicating their status as greats of the game. Interestingly, both Neuer and Virat have common comparisons including being members of World Cup-winning squads and playing in finals of almost all international tournaments. Their stature at club and franchise level also remains intact with Neuer now in his 13th season with the club while Virat will enter his 17th season with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Interestingly at the franchise level, Neuer has enjoyed more success winning the Champions League twice while also winning the German Bundesliga on 11 occasions. Virat’s luck hasn’t been great and has been runner-up in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on three occasions and twice in the now-abolished Champions League. ALSO READ | 'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024 While Bayern’s tweet made plenty of headlines, in the recent weeks they have been in headlines for all the wrong reasons. They recently announced the departure of manager Thomas Tuchel after having a poor season compared to the recent years where they have won the Bundesliga. They are eight points behind league leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the German league while getting eliminated in the DFB Pokal early. Virat on the other hand has been away from cricket after playing in the two-match Test series against South Africa in January. He recently became a father for the second time and skipped the entire Test series against England. Despite his absence, India won the Test series 3-1 having pocketed the wins in Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi. He is expected to be back in action during the IPL 2024 when he represents RCB. In his 16 seasons with the South Indian giants, he is yet to win the IPL and will look to find the missing piece in the puzzle.

German football giants Bayern Munich pick Virat Kohli as cross-sport equivalent of legendary Manuel Neuer

<p>India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare.</p>

<p>This became India's 17th successive Test series win&nbsp;on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win&nbsp;in the post-match presser in Ranchi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly."</p>

<p>While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play&nbsp;-- needs to be&nbsp;rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhruv-jurel-took-the-pressure-off-me-shubman-gill-on-unbeaten-stand-in-tense-ranchi-chase-694027">IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly</strong></h2>

<p>India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having&nbsp;stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost&nbsp;by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead.</p>

<p>The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to&nbsp;Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat&nbsp;-- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter,&nbsp;a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion&nbsp;with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs.</p>

<p>The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place&nbsp;after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter&nbsp;Jurel.&nbsp;Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand.</p>

<p>Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around.&nbsp;His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes &amp; Co. folding up for 319.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a 126-run lead, India took the game away&nbsp;with their&nbsp;young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the&nbsp;fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in&nbsp;the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant&nbsp;who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later,&nbsp;Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series</a></strong></p>

<p>India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due&nbsp;to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the&nbsp;youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important&nbsp;to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format."</p>

<p>Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it&nbsp;would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.</p>


India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. This became India's 17th successive Test series win on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations). Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win in the post-match presser in Ranchi. Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly." While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play -- needs to be rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances. Also read: IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead. The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat -- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter, a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs. The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Jurel. Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand. Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around. His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes & Co. folding up for 319. With a 126-run lead, India took the game away with their young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41. Prior to the fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later, Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7. Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line. Also read: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format." Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India. Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.

Explained: Why India’s Test series triumph over England should be rated highly

<p>India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite record books with his sensational form in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Jaiswal although got out after scoring 37 on day 4 (Feb 26) of the Ranchi Test but equalled Virat Kohli's record for most runs in a Test series for India against England. Jaiswal now has 655 runs in four Tests, the same as Kohli had scored during England's tour of India in 2016/17.</p>

<p>Jaiswal, who opens alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, has also hit two double-hundreds in the series to go with his two fifties in eight innings. He has amassed these runs at a stunning average of 93 while also hitting 23 sixes. Thanks to the southpaw's exploits, India are currently leading 3-1 in the five-Test series.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi, hosts clinch five-match series</a></p>

<p>With one more Test to follow after the Ranchi Test, Jaiswal is all but certain to go past Kohli's record of most runs in a Test series for India against England. The batter will also have a shot at breaking Graham Gooch's record of 752 runs - the most for any batter in an India-England Test series.</p>

<p>If Jaiswal scores 45 runs more and reaches the 700-run mark, he'll become the first Indian batter to reach the milestone in India-England Tests. The batter will also have former skipper Sunil Gavaskar's all-time record of most runs by an Indian in a Test series - 774 against West Indies in 1970/71 - in sight during the last Test in Dharamsala, starting&nbsp;March 7.</p>

<p>Jaiswal made his debut for India in Tests last year during the tour of the West Indies and scored 171 runs in his debut innings. The batter&nbsp;managed 266 runs in three innings across two matches before a lean series in South Africa where he scored just 50 runs in two matches.</p>


India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite record books with his sensational form in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Jaiswal although got out after scoring 37 on day 4 (Feb 26) of the Ranchi Test but equalled Virat Kohli's record for most runs in a Test series for India against England.

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite record books with his sensational form in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Jaiswal although got out after scoring 37 on day 4 (Feb 26) of the Ranchi Test but equalled Virat Kohli's record for most runs in a Test series for India against England. Jaiswal now has 655 runs in four Tests, the same as Kohli had scored during England's tour of India in 2016/17. Jaiswal, who opens alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, has also hit two double-hundreds in the series to go with his two fifties in eight innings. He has amassed these runs at a stunning average of 93 while also hitting 23 sixes. Thanks to the southpaw's exploits, India are currently leading 3-1 in the five-Test series. Also Read: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi, hosts clinch five-match series With one more Test to follow after the Ranchi Test, Jaiswal is all but certain to go past Kohli's record of most runs in a Test series for India against England. The batter will also have a shot at breaking Graham Gooch's record of 752 runs - the most for any batter in an India-England Test series. If Jaiswal scores 45 runs more and reaches the 700-run mark, he'll become the first Indian batter to reach the milestone in India-England Tests. The batter will also have former skipper Sunil Gavaskar's all-time record of most runs by an Indian in a Test series - 774 against West Indies in 1970/71 - in sight during the last Test in Dharamsala, starting March 7. Jaiswal made his debut for India in Tests last year during the tour of the West Indies and scored 171 runs in his debut innings. The batter managed 266 runs in three innings across two matches before a lean series in South Africa where he scored just 50 runs in two matches.

IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal equals Virat Kohli's record of most runs for India vs England in a Test series

<p>Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi. India were trailing by 134 runs at the end of day's play with Dhruv Jurel (30) and Kuldeep Yadav (17) on the crease as the hosts finished the day on 219/7.</p>

<p>"With the experience &amp; world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad asked in a post on social media platform X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With the experience &amp; world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor ⚓️</p>
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8/status/1761334443388678426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Skipper Rohit Sharma was first Indian wicket to fall off James Anderson as India headed to lunch at 34/1 after bowling England out for 353 in the first innings on Saturday. Shubman Gill (38) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) then added 82 runs for the second wicket to steady the ship before Bashir trapped Gill LBW. Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja were next to fall, both to Bashir, as India lost three wickets in the second session for less than 100 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/psl-2024-pakistan-batter-babar-azam-loses-cool-mimics-bottle-throw-after-being-trolled-by-fans-wacth-693485">PSL 2024: Pakistan batter Babar Azam loses cool, mimics 'bottle throw' after being trolled by fans&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Starting the last session at 131/4, Jaiswal's big wicket was also claimed by Bashir as India became five down at just 161. Tom Hartley then took the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Ravi Ashwin to leave the hosts reeling at 177/7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jurel and spinner Kuldeep then added unbeaten 42 runs for the eighth wicket to frustrate England who were looking set to get a big lead after the Hatley's twin wickets.</p>

<p>Notably, Kohli has taken leave of absence from the series due to personal reasons (his second child's birth with wife Anushka Sharma) and it has weakened India's middle order.</p>


Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi. India were trailing by 134 runs at the end of day's play with Dhruv Jurel (30) and Kuldeep Yadav (17) on the crease as the hosts finished the day on 219/7. "With the experience & world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad asked in a post on social media platform X. With the experience & world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor ⚓️ — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) February 24, 2024 × Skipper Rohit Sharma was first Indian wicket to fall off James Anderson as India headed to lunch at 34/1 after bowling England out for 353 in the first innings on Saturday. Shubman Gill (38) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) then added 82 runs for the second wicket to steady the ship before Bashir trapped Gill LBW. Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja were next to fall, both to Bashir, as India lost three wickets in the second session for less than 100 runs. Also Watch: PSL 2024: Pakistan batter Babar Azam loses cool, mimics 'bottle throw' after being trolled by fans Starting the last session at 131/4, Jaiswal's big wicket was also claimed by Bashir as India became five down at just 161. Tom Hartley then took the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Ravi Ashwin to leave the hosts reeling at 177/7. Jurel and spinner Kuldeep then added unbeaten 42 runs for the eighth wicket to frustrate England who were looking set to get a big lead after the Hatley's twin wickets. Notably, Kohli has taken leave of absence from the series due to personal reasons (his second child's birth with wife Anushka Sharma) and it has weakened India's middle order.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Stuart Broad questions non-selection of Cheteshwar Pujara after India’s batting failure

Babar Azam became the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, by innings, during the ongoing PSL 2024 edition on Wednesday (Feb 21). Here is a list of batters – including Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle -- who are the quickest to reach the 10k-run club in T20s, in terms of innings.

Batters Quickest to 10k T20 runs (by innings)

<p>Pakistan batter Babar Azam has created by becoming the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, going past former West Indies batter Chris Gayle and India's Virat Kohli in the list. Babar achieved the feat in ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 on Wednesday (Feb 21) while playing for Peshawar Zalmi against Karachi Kings in Lahore. Babar has reached the 10K-run mark in his 271st innings while Gayle had done so in 285th innings and Kohli in 299th.</p>

<p>Babar scored 72 off 51 balls during the match as his team set a target of 154 for Kings to chase. Karachi's Kieron Pollard led the way for his team with an unbeaten 21-ball 49 as Kings won the match by seven wickets. Babar is in prime form this season, scoring two fifties in two games and leads the run chart with 140 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-aus-1st-t20i-tim-davids-four-pulls-off-last-ball-heist-for-australia-in-pursuit-of-216-692314">NZ vs Aus, 1st T20I: Mitchell Marsh, Tim David seal last-ball win for Australia in pursuit of 216</a></p>

<p>Babar scored 68 runs in the first match this season and reached the 3,000 runs in the PSL - the first player to do so in the league.</p>

<p>Babar now has 3,075 runs in PSL at an average of 45 and a strike rate of 125. Fakhar Zaman is distant second with 2,387 runs at a strike rate of 142. The next three batters in the list are veteran Shoaib Malik with 2,164 runs, Mohammad Rizwan with 2,050 runs and Kamran Akmal with 1,972 runs.</p>

<p>On the day Babar reached 3K-run mark, that is, February 18, Rizwan, who plays for Multan Sultans, also became the fourth batter in the PSL history to reach 2,000 runs. Rizwan reached the milestone in 61 innings.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Mohammed Hafeez, who was recently sacked as Men in Green's director of cricket, has slammed the national side for poor fitness standards. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-mickey-arthur-put-fitness-in-backseat-pakistans-former-director-of-cricket-mohammad-hafeez-692308">Hafeez ripped apart Pakistan's fitness culture</a> and blamed former captain Babar Azam and ex-coach Mickey Arthur.</p>


Pakistan batter Babar Azam has created by becoming the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, going past former West Indies batter Chris Gayle and India's Virat Kohli in the list.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam has created by becoming the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, going past former West Indies batter Chris Gayle and India's Virat Kohli in the list. Babar achieved the feat in ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 on Wednesday (Feb 21) while playing for Peshawar Zalmi against Karachi Kings in Lahore. Babar has reached the 10K-run mark in his 271st innings while Gayle had done so in 285th innings and Kohli in 299th. Babar scored 72 off 51 balls during the match as his team set a target of 154 for Kings to chase. Karachi's Kieron Pollard led the way for his team with an unbeaten 21-ball 49 as Kings won the match by seven wickets. Babar is in prime form this season, scoring two fifties in two games and leads the run chart with 140 runs. Also Read: NZ vs Aus, 1st T20I: Mitchell Marsh, Tim David seal last-ball win for Australia in pursuit of 216 Babar scored 68 runs in the first match this season and reached the 3,000 runs in the PSL - the first player to do so in the league. Babar now has 3,075 runs in PSL at an average of 45 and a strike rate of 125. Fakhar Zaman is distant second with 2,387 runs at a strike rate of 142. The next three batters in the list are veteran Shoaib Malik with 2,164 runs, Mohammad Rizwan with 2,050 runs and Kamran Akmal with 1,972 runs. On the day Babar reached 3K-run mark, that is, February 18, Rizwan, who plays for Multan Sultans, also became the fourth batter in the PSL history to reach 2,000 runs. Rizwan reached the milestone in 61 innings. Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Mohammed Hafeez, who was recently sacked as Men in Green's director of cricket, has slammed the national side for poor fitness standards. Hafeez ripped apart Pakistan's fitness culture and blamed former captain Babar Azam and ex-coach Mickey Arthur.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam becomes fastest to score 10,000 T20 runs, goes past Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli

<p><strong>Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy Akaay Meaning:&nbsp;</strong>Star couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced the arrival of their second child — a baby boy. Keeping with the trend, the celebrity couple chose a rather unique name for their bundle of joy: 'Akaay'.</p>

<h2><strong>Abundant happiness</strong></h2>

<p>Announcing the good news on Instagram, the couple wrote, "With abundant happiness and our hearts all of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay &amp; Vamika's little brother into this world!"</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-anushka-sharma-and-virat-kohli-announce-the-birth-of-their-son-akaay-692072">Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli announce the birth of their son Akaay</a></strong></p>

<p>"We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love &amp; Gratitude. Virat &amp; Anushka," they added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Akaay'&nbsp;name meaning (Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy)</strong></h2>

<p>As expected, there's a lot of intrigue about the baby's name. The name 'Akaay' as per the internet has different meanings in different languages. Anushka and Virat, or Virushka as they're lovingly called, are yet to announce the origin of the name, but here are some guesses.</p>

<p>Akaay could be derived from the Hindi word 'kaya' or body. In Sanskrit language, the name Akaay means 'immortal' or something that doesn't decay.</p>

<p>It could also be a Turkish-originated name which means "Near a full moon or illuminating light of full moon or full moon".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-ranveer-singh-expecting-first-child-heres-what-we-know-so-far-691969">Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh expecting first child? Here’s what we know so far</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Virushka</strong></h2>

<p>The couple tied the knot back in December 2017 in Italy. They welcomed their first child, a girl, 'Vamika' in January 2011. Vamika, which is also not that common, is another name for the Hindu goddess Durga.</p>

<p>Virat and Anushka were tight-lipped about the second pregnancy. However, it was mistakenly revealed by former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers on his official YouTube channel. He later released another video apologising for his "blunder".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy Akaay Meaning: Star couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced the arrival of their second child — a baby boy. Keeping with the trend, the celebrity couple chose a rather unique name for their bundle of joy: 'Akaay'.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy Akaay Meaning: Star couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced the arrival of their second child — a baby boy. Keeping with the trend, the celebrity couple chose a rather unique name for their bundle of joy: 'Akaay'. Abundant happiness Announcing the good news on Instagram, the couple wrote, "With abundant happiness and our hearts all of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika's little brother into this world!" Also read | Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli announce the birth of their son Akaay "We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love & Gratitude. Virat & Anushka," they added. 'Akaay' name meaning (Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy) As expected, there's a lot of intrigue about the baby's name. The name 'Akaay' as per the internet has different meanings in different languages. Anushka and Virat, or Virushka as they're lovingly called, are yet to announce the origin of the name, but here are some guesses. Akaay could be derived from the Hindi word 'kaya' or body. In Sanskrit language, the name Akaay means 'immortal' or something that doesn't decay. It could also be a Turkish-originated name which means "Near a full moon or illuminating light of full moon or full moon". Also read | Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh expecting first child? Here’s what we know so far Virushka The couple tied the knot back in December 2017 in Italy. They welcomed their first child, a girl, 'Vamika' in January 2011. Vamika, which is also not that common, is another name for the Hindu goddess Durga. Virat and Anushka were tight-lipped about the second pregnancy. However, it was mistakenly revealed by former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers on his official YouTube channel. He later released another video apologising for his "blunder". (With inputs from agencies)

Decoding Akaay: The meaning of Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s newborn son’s name

<p>It is a boy! Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have become parents for the second time. The actress took to her Instagram page to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy whom they have named Akaay. The couple has a three-year-old daughter Vamika.&nbsp;<br />
The baby arrived 15th of February, the post has revealed.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love. We are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika's little brother into this world!<br />
<br />
We seek your blessing and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and Gratitude Virat and Anushka."</p>

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<p>The couple's second pregnancy was a hush-hush one and they never made a public announcement confirming the news. Anushka mostly kept a low profile, although she was spotted with a baby bump watching World Cup matches in November 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the announcement, Kohli had decided not to be a part of the ongoing Test series against England. He had first taken a leave due to 'personal reasons' from the first two Tests before making himself unavailable for the rest of the three Tests.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week,&nbsp;industrialist Harsh Goenka had&nbsp;dropped a hint regarding arrival of the baby and had revealed that the Anushka would be delivering in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Goenka on X had written, "A new baby is to be born in the next few days! Hope the baby takes India to great heights like the greatest cricketing father. Or will it follow the mother and be a film star?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadeInIndia?src=hashtag_click" target="_self">&nbsp;</a>#MadeInIndia&nbsp;#ToBeBornInLondon.”</p>


It is a boy! Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have become parents for the second time. The actress took to her Instagram page to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy whom they have named Akaay.

It is a boy! Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have become parents for the second time. The actress took to her Instagram page to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy whom they have named Akaay. The couple has a three-year-old daughter Vamika. The baby arrived 15th of February, the post has revealed. "With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love. We are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika's little brother into this world! We seek your blessing and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and Gratitude Virat and Anushka." View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × The couple's second pregnancy was a hush-hush one and they never made a public announcement confirming the news. Anushka mostly kept a low profile, although she was spotted with a baby bump watching World Cup matches in November 2023. Ahead of the announcement, Kohli had decided not to be a part of the ongoing Test series against England. He had first taken a leave due to 'personal reasons' from the first two Tests before making himself unavailable for the rest of the three Tests. Earlier this week, industrialist Harsh Goenka had dropped a hint regarding arrival of the baby and had revealed that the Anushka would be delivering in London. Goenka on X had written, "A new baby is to be born in the next few days! Hope the baby takes India to great heights like the greatest cricketing father. Or will it follow the mother and be a film star? #MadeInIndia #ToBeBornInLondon.”

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli announce the birth of their son Akaay

<p>Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United. As PSL 2024 gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17), Islamabad will face defending champions Lahore Qalandars in the opener in Lahore.</p>

<p>Speaking on the Islamabad United podcast, Naseem recalled his T20I debut against India in Dubai, wherein he impressed with his new-ball exploits. Detailing about dealing with the pressure of a crowd favourite India-Pakistan game, Naseem said having played Tests and ODIs earlier helped calm his nerves.</p>

<p>“I have good memories of my T20I debut against India. India versus Pakistan is the most important match when it comes to the crowds and intensity on the field, and that was my debut match. I was naturally a bit nervous since it was my debut. But the good thing for me was that I had played a lot of cricket before; I had played Tests and ODIs, which helped me,” Naseem said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In that game, Naseem picked two wickets, removing KL Rahul (in his first over) and getting rid of Suryakumar Yadav later. On taking on Virat Kohli in that contest, Naseem revealed he thought Kohli would go boom-boom from the ball one and, therefore, bowled two swinging cutters to the batting great.</p>

<p>“When Virat Kohli came into bat, I thought he would go hard. So, I bowled an in-swinger hoping that it might catch his pad, but he let it go. The next delivery, I bowled an out-swinger that caught the edge, but yeah, the catch got dropped. But it was a good experience because when you make your debut against a big team and under so much pressure, then you get a margin in other matches,” the 21-year-old seamer added.</p>

<h2>Naseem back in action</h2>

<p>After missing out on a major chunk of matches late last year, including the latter half of the 2023 Asia Cup and then the World Cup in India, Shah is raring to go for his new team in the PSL.</p>

<p>Shah was earlier part of the Quetta Gladiators setup and switched teams ahead of the upcoming season.&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United.

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United. As PSL 2024 gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17), Islamabad will face defending champions Lahore Qalandars in the opener in Lahore. Speaking on the Islamabad United podcast, Naseem recalled his T20I debut against India in Dubai, wherein he impressed with his new-ball exploits. Detailing about dealing with the pressure of a crowd favourite India-Pakistan game, Naseem said having played Tests and ODIs earlier helped calm his nerves. “I have good memories of my T20I debut against India. India versus Pakistan is the most important match when it comes to the crowds and intensity on the field, and that was my debut match. I was naturally a bit nervous since it was my debut. But the good thing for me was that I had played a lot of cricket before; I had played Tests and ODIs, which helped me,” Naseem said. ALSO READ: Blow to New Zealand as Kyle Jamieson ruled for one year due to persisting stress fracture in back In that game, Naseem picked two wickets, removing KL Rahul (in his first over) and getting rid of Suryakumar Yadav later. On taking on Virat Kohli in that contest, Naseem revealed he thought Kohli would go boom-boom from the ball one and, therefore, bowled two swinging cutters to the batting great. “When Virat Kohli came into bat, I thought he would go hard. So, I bowled an in-swinger hoping that it might catch his pad, but he let it go. The next delivery, I bowled an out-swinger that caught the edge, but yeah, the catch got dropped. But it was a good experience because when you make your debut against a big team and under so much pressure, then you get a margin in other matches,” the 21-year-old seamer added. Naseem back in action After missing out on a major chunk of matches late last year, including the latter half of the 2023 Asia Cup and then the World Cup in India, Shah is raring to go for his new team in the PSL. Shah was earlier part of the Quetta Gladiators setup and switched teams ahead of the upcoming season.

Naseem Shah opens up on facing Virat Kohli for first time; gears up for PSL opener

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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