<p>The IPL 2024 mini-auction is set to be held in Dubai on Dec 19. Ahead of the auction proceedings, many former cricketers and experts of the game are busy making bold predictions. All eyes are on the marquee players -- such as Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Starc, etc. -- as it will be interesting to see which franchise will end with a formidable line-up after the mini-auction. Amid all the auction hype, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan made a bold claim. He feels Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc will return to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2024.</p>

<p>While talking to Star Sports, Irfan opined, "I really think you might see Mitchell Starc playing for RCB because he was there before. They would want him there as well because being a left-armer, bowling 140-plus, having that extra pace in those types of pitches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium will be of utmost importance for RCB."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-indian-opener-predicts-next-test-captain-after-rohit-sharma-666487">Former Indian opener predicts next Test captain after Rohit Sharma</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Starc was part of the Virat Kohli-led RCB line-up from 2014 to 2015. He was in top form for the Bengaluru-based franchise, ending with 34 scalps in two seasons. However, he has not featured in the IPL since the 2015 edition. With the T20 World Cup 2024 edition set to be held soon after next year's IPL, starting early June in West Indies and USA, Starc is keen to get as many T20s under his belt and, hence, is set to return to the IPL this time around. It will be interesting to see if RCB manages to acquire his services once again, having already released Josh Hazlewood on the retention deadline day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starc was last seen in action during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where he ended with 16 scalps -- eighth-most overall -- and was part of the Cummins-led Australia's victorious squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>RCB squad ahead of mini-auction</strong></p>

<p>Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar (from SRH), Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green (from MI).</p>


The IPL 2024 mini-auction is set to be held in Dubai on Dec 19. Ahead of the auction proceedings, many former cricketers and experts of the game are busy making bold predictions.

The IPL 2024 mini-auction is set to be held in Dubai on Dec 19. Ahead of the auction proceedings, many former cricketers and experts of the game are busy making bold predictions. All eyes are on the marquee players -- such as Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Starc, etc. -- as it will be interesting to see which franchise will end with a formidable line-up after the mini-auction. Amid all the auction hype, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan made a bold claim. He feels Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc will return to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2024. While talking to Star Sports, Irfan opined, "I really think you might see Mitchell Starc playing for RCB because he was there before. They would want him there as well because being a left-armer, bowling 140-plus, having that extra pace in those types of pitches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium will be of utmost importance for RCB." Also read: Former Indian opener predicts next Test captain after Rohit Sharma It is to be noted that Starc was part of the Virat Kohli-led RCB line-up from 2014 to 2015. He was in top form for the Bengaluru-based franchise, ending with 34 scalps in two seasons. However, he has not featured in the IPL since the 2015 edition. With the T20 World Cup 2024 edition set to be held soon after next year's IPL, starting early June in West Indies and USA, Starc is keen to get as many T20s under his belt and, hence, is set to return to the IPL this time around. It will be interesting to see if RCB manages to acquire his services once again, having already released Josh Hazlewood on the retention deadline day. Starc was last seen in action during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where he ended with 16 scalps -- eighth-most overall -- and was part of the Cummins-led Australia's victorious squad. RCB squad ahead of mini-auction Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar (from SRH), Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green (from MI).

IPL 2024: Might see Mitchell Starc playing at RCB - Former India pacer Irfan Pathan's BOLD claim

<p>Sourav Ganguly recalled Virat Kohli's infamous resignation as India captain in late 2021. Kohli announced his resignation as the T20I captain before the start of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Soon after the World Cup, he was sacked as the ODI captain and after the end of the India-South Africa Tests, which concluded in early 2022 in&nbsp;the African nation, Kohli stepped down as the Test captain as well, bringing curtains to his captaincy tenure. Back then, Ganguly was also criticised by many for playing a role in Kohli's resignation as he was serving as the BCCI chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, Ganguly has recalled the entire controversy and stated that he didn't play any role in Kohli leaving captaincy altogether. The former Indian captain said that he just asked Kohli to step down as the white-ball skipper after the latter had announced his resignation from T20Is.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I didn't remove Virat from captaincy. I have told this a lot of times. He was not interested to lead in T20Is. So, after he made that decision, I told him, if you're not interested to lead in T20Is, it's better if you step down from entire white-ball cricket. Let there be a white-ball captain and a red-ball captain," Ganguly said on Dadagiri Unlimited Season 10, a reality show.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-do-pcs-every-3-minutes-akrams-advice-for-new-pakistan-management-asks-them-to-be-brave-666383">Don't do PCs every 3 minutes: Akram's advice for new Pakistan management, asks them to 'be brave'</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Ganguly revealed he had to push Rohit Sharma to take over as the all-format captain after Kohli's resignation in January 2022. "I pushed Rohit Sharma a bit to take up the captaincy role because he wasn't interested to lead in all three formats of the game. So, maybe I have a bit of contribution in that but no matter who is administrating, it's the players who perform well on the field. I was appointed as the President of BCCI to work for the betterment of Indian cricket, this is a small part of it," he added.</p>

<p>Back then, Kohli wanted to carry on as the ODI and Test captain despite stepping down as the T20I skipper in September 2021. However, the board eventually sacked him as the ODI captain before he moved aside from the additional responsibility in the red-ball format. At present, Kohli is gearing up for India's two-match Test series versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26.</p>


Sourav Ganguly recalled Virat Kohli's infamous resignation as India captain in late 2021. Kohli announced his resignation as the T20I captain before the start of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Sourav Ganguly recalled Virat Kohli's infamous resignation as India captain in late 2021. Kohli announced his resignation as the T20I captain before the start of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Soon after the World Cup, he was sacked as the ODI captain and after the end of the India-South Africa Tests, which concluded in early 2022 in the African nation, Kohli stepped down as the Test captain as well, bringing curtains to his captaincy tenure. Back then, Ganguly was also criticised by many for playing a role in Kohli's resignation as he was serving as the BCCI chief. Now, Ganguly has recalled the entire controversy and stated that he didn't play any role in Kohli leaving captaincy altogether. The former Indian captain said that he just asked Kohli to step down as the white-ball skipper after the latter had announced his resignation from T20Is. "I didn't remove Virat from captaincy. I have told this a lot of times. He was not interested to lead in T20Is. So, after he made that decision, I told him, if you're not interested to lead in T20Is, it's better if you step down from entire white-ball cricket. Let there be a white-ball captain and a red-ball captain," Ganguly said on Dadagiri Unlimited Season 10, a reality show. Also read: Don't do PCs every 3 minutes: Akram's advice for new Pakistan management, asks them to 'be brave' In addition, Ganguly revealed he had to push Rohit Sharma to take over as the all-format captain after Kohli's resignation in January 2022. "I pushed Rohit Sharma a bit to take up the captaincy role because he wasn't interested to lead in all three formats of the game. So, maybe I have a bit of contribution in that but no matter who is administrating, it's the players who perform well on the field. I was appointed as the President of BCCI to work for the betterment of Indian cricket, this is a small part of it," he added. Back then, Kohli wanted to carry on as the ODI and Test captain despite stepping down as the T20I skipper in September 2021. However, the board eventually sacked him as the ODI captain before he moved aside from the additional responsibility in the red-ball format. At present, Kohli is gearing up for India's two-match Test series versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26.

'Didn't remove Virat Kohli from captaincy': Former skipper and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly recalls controversy

<p>Virat Kohli is currently enjoying his time away from the game post India's heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 final loss, to Australia, last month. Kohli ended with most runs (765 -- most by any batter in a single edition).&nbsp;Over the years, the former Indian captain has broken a multitude of batting records, especially in white-ball formats. Since his international debut, in 2008, Kohli has&nbsp;had famous rivalries with innumerable bowlers from the opposition camps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Veteran Pakistan pacer Junaid Khan has enjoyed&nbsp;a memorable battle with Kohli on the field. Junaid has dominated the Indian batter, having dismissed him thrice in five ODIs -- all of which happened in consecutive matches during Pakistan's 2012/13 tour of India&nbsp;-- and conceded a solitary boundary in the only T20I where they came face-to-face.</p>

<p>Recalling Pakistan's last visit to India for a bilateral series, including three ODIs and two T20Is in 2012/13, Junaid spoke at length on his dominance over Kohli. Back then, he dismissed the Indian batter in all the three ODIs (which the Men in Green won 2-1). Speaking on Nadir Shah’s podcast, Junaid said, “Dande toh bahut saare ke udaye hai magar log jo yaad karte hai wo Virat Kohli ke hai (I have taken wickets of so many batsmen but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket).”</p>

<p>He further mentioned, "We have played in the U-19 World Cup, we knew each other. It was my comeback series and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match and he told me it will not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match. Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him 'Viru, aaj aapki khair nahi hai (Virat, you will not be spared today).' Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch," said Junaid who never managed to dismiss Kohli again.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-should-indias-star-javelin-thrower-neeraj-chopra-shares-advice-for-pacer-666105">‘Jasprit Bumrah should...’: India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra shares advice for pacer</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli ended the three ODIs with scores of 0, 6 and 7. Meanwhile, Junaid returned with eight wickets at an economy rate of 3.66 -- having troubled India's famed batters.</p>

<p>Junaid, however, heaped words of praise on Kohli as he rates him among the top-5 batters in the world. “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball they way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world class batsman,” he added.</p>

<p>Kohli recently ended the home ODI WC surpassing Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's ODI ton tally (49). He now has 50 ODI hundreds, most by any, and a total of 80 international centuries to his name. He will look to add to his ton-tally during India's tour of South Africa, where he is part of Rohit Sharma-led side's Test squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-match Test series kicks off on Dec 26.</p>


Virat Kohli is currently enjoying his time away from the game post India's heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 final loss, to Australia, last month. Kohli ended with most runs (765 -- most by any batter in a single edition).

Virat Kohli is currently enjoying his time away from the game post India's heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 final loss, to Australia, last month. Kohli ended with most runs (765 -- most by any batter in a single edition). Over the years, the former Indian captain has broken a multitude of batting records, especially in white-ball formats. Since his international debut, in 2008, Kohli has had famous rivalries with innumerable bowlers from the opposition camps. Veteran Pakistan pacer Junaid Khan has enjoyed a memorable battle with Kohli on the field. Junaid has dominated the Indian batter, having dismissed him thrice in five ODIs -- all of which happened in consecutive matches during Pakistan's 2012/13 tour of India -- and conceded a solitary boundary in the only T20I where they came face-to-face. Recalling Pakistan's last visit to India for a bilateral series, including three ODIs and two T20Is in 2012/13, Junaid spoke at length on his dominance over Kohli. Back then, he dismissed the Indian batter in all the three ODIs (which the Men in Green won 2-1). Speaking on Nadir Shah’s podcast, Junaid said, “Dande toh bahut saare ke udaye hai magar log jo yaad karte hai wo Virat Kohli ke hai (I have taken wickets of so many batsmen but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket).” He further mentioned, "We have played in the U-19 World Cup, we knew each other. It was my comeback series and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match and he told me it will not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match. Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him 'Viru, aaj aapki khair nahi hai (Virat, you will not be spared today).' Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch," said Junaid who never managed to dismiss Kohli again. Also read: ‘Jasprit Bumrah should...’: India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra shares advice for pacer Kohli ended the three ODIs with scores of 0, 6 and 7. Meanwhile, Junaid returned with eight wickets at an economy rate of 3.66 -- having troubled India's famed batters. Junaid, however, heaped words of praise on Kohli as he rates him among the top-5 batters in the world. “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball they way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world class batsman,” he added. Kohli recently ended the home ODI WC surpassing Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's ODI ton tally (49). He now has 50 ODI hundreds, most by any, and a total of 80 international centuries to his name. He will look to add to his ton-tally during India's tour of South Africa, where he is part of Rohit Sharma-led side's Test squad. The two-match Test series kicks off on Dec 26.

'You will not be spared today': Veteran Pakistan pacer recalls dominating Virat Kohli during 2012/13 ODIs

<p>Former Pakistan seamer Junaid Khan recalled playing against India great Virat Kohli. While Junaid expressed his utmost respect for the batter and cricketer that Kohli has emerged, the left-handed pacer still cherishes every time he dismissed Kohli in limited meetings, adding people haven’t forgotten that either.</p>

<p>“I have taken wickets of so many batsmen, but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket,” Junaid said on Nadir Shah’s podcast.</p>

<p>During India-Pakistan's last bilateral series in 2012/13, Junaid dismissed Virat on all three occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the first ODI in Chennai, where he cleaned up his off-stump, Junaid picked Kohli caught behind in the second ODI in Kolkata. Their premier pacer back then, Junaid, recalled an instance of warning Kohli ahead of the final ODI in Delhi, where also he got rid of him.</p>

<p>“We have played in the U-19 World Cup; we knew each other. It was my comeback series, and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match, and he told me it would not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him ‘Virat you will not be spared today.’ Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch,” Junaid revealed during the discussion.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-naseem-shah-switch-bases-in-sensational-psl-2024-trade-665470">Pakistan's Naseem Shah switch bases in sensational PSL 2024 trade</a></strong></p>

<p>Around 11 years later, Virat has stamped his authority as the greatest batter of the modern-day game, going past legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s 50 ODI centuries tally during the recently-concluded World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking highly of the India great, Junaid said, “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball, the way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world-class batsman.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Rohit is better than both – Junaid&nbsp;</h2>

<p>When asked about his opinion on the best Indian batter of the two – Sachin or Virat, Junaid named current captain Rohit Sharma, saying the veteran star has more shots in his kitty than Kohli and Sachin.</p>

<p>“In my opinion, Rohit Sharma is a better batsman than Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli,” Junaid said.<br />
<br />
Junaid added because Rohit has more double hundreds in ODIs in comparison to others and is also the batter with the most sixes in the One-Dayers, he is ahead of the two.</p>

<p>“Everybody calls Rohit ‘The Hitman.’ He has scored an incredible 264. He has also smashed a couple of double-hundreds in the ODIs. This is rare because he has done it more than once. He has also hit the most number of sixes. That’s why I would vote for Rohit,” Junaid added.</p>


Former Pakistan seamer Junaid Khan recalled playing against India great Virat Kohli. While Junaid expressed his utmost respect for the batter and cricketer that Kohli has emerged, the left-handed pacer still cherishes every time he dismissed Kohli in limited meetings, adding people haven’t forgotten that either.

Former Pakistan seamer Junaid Khan recalled playing against India great Virat Kohli. While Junaid expressed his utmost respect for the batter and cricketer that Kohli has emerged, the left-handed pacer still cherishes every time he dismissed Kohli in limited meetings, adding people haven’t forgotten that either. “I have taken wickets of so many batsmen, but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket,” Junaid said on Nadir Shah’s podcast. During India-Pakistan's last bilateral series in 2012/13, Junaid dismissed Virat on all three occasions. In the first ODI in Chennai, where he cleaned up his off-stump, Junaid picked Kohli caught behind in the second ODI in Kolkata. Their premier pacer back then, Junaid, recalled an instance of warning Kohli ahead of the final ODI in Delhi, where also he got rid of him. “We have played in the U-19 World Cup; we knew each other. It was my comeback series, and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match, and he told me it would not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match." "Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him ‘Virat you will not be spared today.’ Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch,” Junaid revealed during the discussion. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Naseem Shah switch bases in sensational PSL 2024 trade Around 11 years later, Virat has stamped his authority as the greatest batter of the modern-day game, going past legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s 50 ODI centuries tally during the recently-concluded World Cup. Speaking highly of the India great, Junaid said, “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball, the way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world-class batsman.” Rohit is better than both – Junaid When asked about his opinion on the best Indian batter of the two – Sachin or Virat, Junaid named current captain Rohit Sharma, saying the veteran star has more shots in his kitty than Kohli and Sachin. “In my opinion, Rohit Sharma is a better batsman than Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli,” Junaid said. Junaid added because Rohit has more double hundreds in ODIs in comparison to others and is also the batter with the most sixes in the One-Dayers, he is ahead of the two. “Everybody calls Rohit ‘The Hitman.’ He has scored an incredible 264. He has also smashed a couple of double-hundreds in the ODIs. This is rare because he has done it more than once. He has also hit the most number of sixes. That’s why I would vote for Rohit,” Junaid added.

Junaid Khan cherishes every Virat Kohli dismissal of his, recalls brief but interesting rivalry

<p>Not for the first time has Virat Kohli’s commitment and dedication towards cricket been discussed and praised in the highest regard. Now, West Indies legend Brian Lara admits that if his son is to pursue sports and become exceptional, he would ask him to follow Kohli’s footsteps. One of the modern-day greats, Kohli holds mind-boggling records in all formats, having recently crossed Sachin Tendulkar’s 50 ODI hundreds tally during the 2023 World Cup.</p>

<p>Speaking at the Tiger Pataudi Memorial Lecture in Kolkata, Lara acknowledged Kohli’s contribution to Indian cricket and this sport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have a son, and I can tell you that if my son has to play any sport, I will be using Kohli's commitment and dedication to not just add to his strength but whatever it takes to become a number one sportsman," said Lara as he talked highly of Kohli’s commitment and dedication towards the game.</p>

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<p>Although Kohli is a world champion, having won it back in 2011, he has been deprived of putting his hands on the trophy since.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-nz-1st-test-tim-southee-underlines-key-factor-in-new-zealand-embarrassing-defeat-to-bangladesh-665407">BAN vs NZ 1st Test: Tim Southee underlines key factor in New Zealand's embarrassing defeat to Bangladesh</a></strong></p>

<p>Even in the 2023 World Cup, Kohli was the highest run-getter, completing 765 runs, including six fifties and three hundreds. Despite scoring a half-century in the final against Australia, Kohli failed to inspire his team to their third world title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lara defended the India great for his performances in the marquee event, saying,&nbsp;"First of all, for Virat Kohli, I know a lot of people will say or have already said that Kohli's performance does not matter as India did not win the World Cup. Team sport is about winning, and you, as an individual player, have to have that as your No.1 target. But a subsidiary of team success is individual success, and this is what Kohli has given India match after match throughout the World Cup."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Kohli’s legacy separates him from the rest</h2>

<p>Having almost done it all during his time as a player in cricket, Lara has an eye for greatness and feels the way Virat changed the face of this game is incredible. Praising his discipline, Lara said,&nbsp;“What impresses me most about Kohli is his true legacy, for he has changed the face of cricket and how you prepare for the game. The discipline that he has stands out, always.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following the 2023 World Cup, Virat, alongside several top players, opted to skip the ongoing five-match T20Is against Australia and South Africa’s white-ball scheduled to start on December 10. The India legend will return to play the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.</p>


Not for the first time has Virat Kohli’s commitment and dedication towards cricket been discussed and praised in the highest regard. Now, West Indies legend Brian Lara admits that if his son is to pursue sports and become exceptional, he would ask him to follow Kohli’s footsteps.

Not for the first time has Virat Kohli’s commitment and dedication towards cricket been discussed and praised in the highest regard. Now, West Indies legend Brian Lara admits that if his son is to pursue sports and become exceptional, he would ask him to follow Kohli’s footsteps. One of the modern-day greats, Kohli holds mind-boggling records in all formats, having recently crossed Sachin Tendulkar’s 50 ODI hundreds tally during the 2023 World Cup. Speaking at the Tiger Pataudi Memorial Lecture in Kolkata, Lara acknowledged Kohli’s contribution to Indian cricket and this sport. "I have a son, and I can tell you that if my son has to play any sport, I will be using Kohli's commitment and dedication to not just add to his strength but whatever it takes to become a number one sportsman," said Lara as he talked highly of Kohli’s commitment and dedication towards the game. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brian Lara (@brianlaraofficial) × Although Kohli is a world champion, having won it back in 2011, he has been deprived of putting his hands on the trophy since. ALSO READ: BAN vs NZ 1st Test: Tim Southee underlines key factor in New Zealand's embarrassing defeat to Bangladesh Even in the 2023 World Cup, Kohli was the highest run-getter, completing 765 runs, including six fifties and three hundreds. Despite scoring a half-century in the final against Australia, Kohli failed to inspire his team to their third world title. Lara defended the India great for his performances in the marquee event, saying, "First of all, for Virat Kohli, I know a lot of people will say or have already said that Kohli's performance does not matter as India did not win the World Cup. Team sport is about winning, and you, as an individual player, have to have that as your No.1 target. But a subsidiary of team success is individual success, and this is what Kohli has given India match after match throughout the World Cup." Kohli’s legacy separates him from the rest Having almost done it all during his time as a player in cricket, Lara has an eye for greatness and feels the way Virat changed the face of this game is incredible. Praising his discipline, Lara said, “What impresses me most about Kohli is his true legacy, for he has changed the face of cricket and how you prepare for the game. The discipline that he has stands out, always.” Meanwhile, following the 2023 World Cup, Virat, alongside several top players, opted to skip the ongoing five-match T20Is against Australia and South Africa’s white-ball scheduled to start on December 10. The India legend will return to play the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.

I will make my son follow Kohli's footsteps: Brian Lara heaps praise on India batting great

<p>Two of India's biggest match winners, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are skipping the white-ball leg of the upcoming South Africa series but will return to play the two Tests, starting December 26 in Centurion. Veteran and former Protean captain Ab de Villiers has warned the home side of the threat that a 'hurt' Virat will bring to the table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit and Virat, alongside Jaspreet Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Mohammed Shami (whose availability is subject to fitness) were all part of the 2023 World Cup final that India lost to Australia in a heart-breaking manner by six wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Drawing a comparison with India's latest loss to South Africa's 2015 CWC semis defeat, de Villiers said he knows what space everyone must be in, thus putting South Africa on notice of what's coming their way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>De Villiers also noted that since Virat and Rohit are yet to win a Test series in this part of the world, both would be upbeat about creating history this time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mitchell-starc-travis-head-among-top-names-registered-for-2024-ipl-auction-englands-archer-opts-out-665186">Mitchell Starc, Travis Head among top names registered for 2024 IPL auction, England's Archer opts out</a></strong></p>

<p>"When we lost in the semifinal in 2015, I can't remember, it was just a blur the next few months. I just didn't want to know cricket and wanted to just pack my kit away. What works for Virat and Rohit is that they haven't won a Test series in South Africa," AB de Villiers said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For them, this is a great opportunity. We had the opportunity to win an ODI series in India just a few months after the 2015 World Cup, and I was incredibly motivated as I thought this is the opportunity to show that we were still the best team in the world," he added.</p>

<h2>We need to be careful - AB de Villiers</h2>

<p>Having played with and against Virat enough to talk about him, de Villiers said Virat would be pumped up during the two-match Tests, trying to intimidate the opposition by getting a little verbal.</p>

<p>"I cannot wait to see the chest out, the eye contact with the opposition, and being a bit verbal with everyone. Because he will be fired up for this series. South Africa will need to be careful. This Indian squad is pure world-class," the legend added.</p>

<p>While the BCCI named relatively younger white-ball squads, with two separate captains in Suryakumar Yadav (T20Is) and KL Rahul (ODIs), the board has picked a full-strength Test squad, with Rohit returning to lead the side.&nbsp;</p>


Two of India's biggest match winners, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are skipping the white-ball leg of the upcoming South Africa series but will return to play the two Tests, starting December 26 in Centurion.

Two of India's biggest match winners, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are skipping the white-ball leg of the upcoming South Africa series but will return to play the two Tests, starting December 26 in Centurion. Veteran and former Protean captain Ab de Villiers has warned the home side of the threat that a 'hurt' Virat will bring to the table. Rohit and Virat, alongside Jaspreet Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Mohammed Shami (whose availability is subject to fitness) were all part of the 2023 World Cup final that India lost to Australia in a heart-breaking manner by six wickets. Drawing a comparison with India's latest loss to South Africa's 2015 CWC semis defeat, de Villiers said he knows what space everyone must be in, thus putting South Africa on notice of what's coming their way. De Villiers also noted that since Virat and Rohit are yet to win a Test series in this part of the world, both would be upbeat about creating history this time. ALSO READ: Mitchell Starc, Travis Head among top names registered for 2024 IPL auction, England's Archer opts out "When we lost in the semifinal in 2015, I can't remember, it was just a blur the next few months. I just didn't want to know cricket and wanted to just pack my kit away. What works for Virat and Rohit is that they haven't won a Test series in South Africa," AB de Villiers said on his YouTube channel. "For them, this is a great opportunity. We had the opportunity to win an ODI series in India just a few months after the 2015 World Cup, and I was incredibly motivated as I thought this is the opportunity to show that we were still the best team in the world," he added. We need to be careful - AB de Villiers Having played with and against Virat enough to talk about him, de Villiers said Virat would be pumped up during the two-match Tests, trying to intimidate the opposition by getting a little verbal. "I cannot wait to see the chest out, the eye contact with the opposition, and being a bit verbal with everyone. Because he will be fired up for this series. South Africa will need to be careful. This Indian squad is pure world-class," the legend added. While the BCCI named relatively younger white-ball squads, with two separate captains in Suryakumar Yadav (T20Is) and KL Rahul (ODIs), the board has picked a full-strength Test squad, with Rohit returning to lead the side.

SA v IND - Kohli will be fired up, South Africa need to be careful: AB de Villiers issues warning

<p>Several World Cup-bound stars are missing from India’s white-ball squads for the South Africa tour, picked on Thursday (Nov 30) in New Delhi. Ajit Agarkar-led men’s selection committee rested veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Shami’s availability is subject to his fitness. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the new-look T20I side, while KL Rahul will captain the One-Day team.</p>

<p><strong>Here is India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against South Africa –</strong></p>

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Tilak Varma, Rajat Patidar, Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (C)(wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar</p>

<p><strong>Here is India’s T20I squad for the three-match series against South Africa –</strong></p>

<p>Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Deepak Chahar</p>

<h2>Kohli, Rohit rested for white-ball leg</h2>

<p>Per BCCI’s official statement, stalwarts Virat Kohli and regular captain Rohit Sharma requested rest for the white-ball series, while both, alongside ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, return for the two-match Tests, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Notes 👇👇<br />
· Mr Rohit Sharma and Mr Virat Kohli had requested the Board for a break from the white-ball leg of the tour.<br />
· Mr Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment and his availability is subject to fitness.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1730234339911258489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-bcci-announce-16-man-test-squad-rohit-to-lead-with-bumrah-named-deputy-big-stars-missing-664767">SA vs Ind: BCCI announce 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out</a></strong></p>

<p>Due to an ankle injury, all-rounder Hardik Pandya remains out of contention, while keeper-batter Sanju Samson has returned to the ODI team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal have also made a comeback to the ODI side, with left-handed Sai Sudharsan getting rewarded with a place in the 50-over team for his excellent run in the domestic circuit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh have earned ODI call-ups, while Deepak Chahar will lead the pace attack. World Cup hero Mohammed Shami is undergoing treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness.</p>

<p>Besides, KL Rahul is the new stand-in captain for the three-match ODIs, while the addition of middle-order batter Rajat Patidar also adds variety to the batting line-up.</p>

<h3>SKY to lead in the shortest format</h3>

<p>India’s best batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar Yadav, will continue to lead India in the three-match T20Is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami returning to the T20I setup, the BCCI indicated signs of things to come, considering next year’s T20 World Cup. With all of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad picked for the T20Is, India will have plenty of options.</p>

<p>Seamers Mukesh Kumar and Deepak are also named in both squads, with Ravi Bishnoi preferred over Chahal in T20Is.&nbsp;</p>


Several World Cup-bound stars are missing from India’s white-ball squads for the South Africa tour, picked on Thursday (Nov 30) in New Delhi. Ajit Agarkar-led men’s selection committee rested veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Shami’s availability is subject to his fitness.

Several World Cup-bound stars are missing from India’s white-ball squads for the South Africa tour, picked on Thursday (Nov 30) in New Delhi. Ajit Agarkar-led men’s selection committee rested veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Shami’s availability is subject to his fitness. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the new-look T20I side, while KL Rahul will captain the One-Day team. Here is India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against South Africa – Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Tilak Varma, Rajat Patidar, Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (C)(wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar Here is India’s T20I squad for the three-match series against South Africa – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Deepak Chahar Kohli, Rohit rested for white-ball leg Per BCCI’s official statement, stalwarts Virat Kohli and regular captain Rohit Sharma requested rest for the white-ball series, while both, alongside ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, return for the two-match Tests, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. Notes 👇👇 · Mr Rohit Sharma and Mr Virat Kohli had requested the Board for a break from the white-ball leg of the tour. · Mr Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment and his availability is subject to fitness.#SAvIND — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2023 × ALSO READ: SA vs Ind: BCCI announce 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out Due to an ankle injury, all-rounder Hardik Pandya remains out of contention, while keeper-batter Sanju Samson has returned to the ODI team. Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal have also made a comeback to the ODI side, with left-handed Sai Sudharsan getting rewarded with a place in the 50-over team for his excellent run in the domestic circuit. Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh have earned ODI call-ups, while Deepak Chahar will lead the pace attack. World Cup hero Mohammed Shami is undergoing treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness. Besides, KL Rahul is the new stand-in captain for the three-match ODIs, while the addition of middle-order batter Rajat Patidar also adds variety to the batting line-up. SKY to lead in the shortest format India’s best batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar Yadav, will continue to lead India in the three-match T20Is. With Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami returning to the T20I setup, the BCCI indicated signs of things to come, considering next year’s T20 World Cup. With all of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad picked for the T20Is, India will have plenty of options. Seamers Mukesh Kumar and Deepak are also named in both squads, with Ravi Bishnoi preferred over Chahal in T20Is.

South Africa vs India: Rohit, Virat to skip white-ball leg, BCCI names new captains for T20Is, ODIs

<p>The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out.&nbsp; Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy.</p>

<p>Pujara was not part of India's last Test series --&nbsp;where they beat West Indies 1-0 in the Caribbean island early this year. Rahane, who retained his place for the WI series post his impressive comeback in the 2021-23 WTC final, is also out of the squad. His scores in the WI Tests were 3 and 8.</p>

<p>Pujara continues to remain out of contention after his lengthy&nbsp;barren run. He managed to break his four-year-long century drought during the Bangladesh Tests in Dec 2022, but since then only managed one fifty-plus score. In addition,&nbsp;his twin failures in the WTC final, in June, led to his omission.</p>

<p>Youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill and inexperienced pacers namely Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna have been preferred as the selection committee have one eye on the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-t20-world-cup-is-priority-long-term-planning-can-wait-bcci-official-on-dravids-contract-extension-664694">Winning T20 World Cup is priority, long-term planning can wait: BCCI official on Dravid’s contract extension</a></strong></p>

<p>The two Tests hold a lot of significance for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The series, which kicks off with the Boxing Day Test on Dec 26 and have its finale on Jan 3,&nbsp;will also mark the beginning of Rahul Dravid's second stint as India's head coach.</p>

<p>He agreed to BCCI's extension offer after his tenure was officially over post the home ODI World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last time India played Tests in South Africa was in late 2021-early 2022, when they lost 1-2. It led to Kohli's resignation as the Test captain.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">India’s squad for 2 Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh…</p>
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<p><strong>India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna.</p>

<p><em><strong>Note</strong></em>: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.</p>


The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation.

The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out. Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy. Pujara was not part of India's last Test series -- where they beat West Indies 1-0 in the Caribbean island early this year. Rahane, who retained his place for the WI series post his impressive comeback in the 2021-23 WTC final, is also out of the squad. His scores in the WI Tests were 3 and 8. Pujara continues to remain out of contention after his lengthy barren run. He managed to break his four-year-long century drought during the Bangladesh Tests in Dec 2022, but since then only managed one fifty-plus score. In addition, his twin failures in the WTC final, in June, led to his omission. Youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill and inexperienced pacers namely Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna have been preferred as the selection committee have one eye on the future. Also read: Winning T20 World Cup is priority, long-term planning can wait: BCCI official on Dravid’s contract extension The two Tests hold a lot of significance for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The series, which kicks off with the Boxing Day Test on Dec 26 and have its finale on Jan 3, will also mark the beginning of Rahul Dravid's second stint as India's head coach. He agreed to BCCI's extension offer after his tenure was officially over post the home ODI World Cup. The last time India played Tests in South Africa was in late 2021-early 2022, when they lost 1-2. It led to Kohli's resignation as the Test captain. India’s squad for 2 Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh… — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2023 × India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna. Note: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

SA vs Ind: BCCI announces 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out

<p>Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin recently recalled India's ODI World Cup 2023 final loss&nbsp;to Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. He stated that it broke his heart when he saw captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in tears following their six-wicket defeat. India had a stunning run throughout the home ODI WC, winning ten games on the trot to enter the summit clash, where they eventually came second. Ashwin recalled the campaign and spoke at length about the chemistry between Rohit and Kohli before hailing Hitman's leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated, "Yes, we felt the pain. Rohit and Virat were crying. Seeing that it felt bad. Anyways, not meant to be. This team was an experienced team. Everybody knew what to do. And then, it was professional. Everybody knew their routines, warm-ups. I think two natural leaders gave the team the space to do these two and created a vibe."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-has-been-devalued-michael-hussey-slams-timing-of-india-australia-t20i-series-soon-after-cwc-2023-664558">'It has been devalued': Michael Hussey slams timing of India-Australia T20I series soon after CWC 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin lauded Rohit's captaincy as Hitman led from the front, with his blazing starts, ending with 597 runs -- most by a captain in an ODI WC -- and marshalled the troops really well. He further opined, "If you look at Indian cricket, everybody will tell you MS Dhoni is one of the best captains. Rohit Sharma is an outstanding person. He understands every single person in the team, he knows what each one of us likes and dislikes. He has a great understanding. He puts in the effort to know each member personally."</p>

<p>He mentioned, "He puts in a lot of effort. Forgoes sleep and becomes part of meetings, he first puts in the effort. He makes an effort to understand how to explain tactics to each person. That's an advanced level of leadership in Indian cricket."</p>

<p>Ashwin then spoke highly about Rohit's fearless approach with the bat at the top and added, "And also, walking the talk. Telling everyone to play a brand of cricket is one thing, but doing it and showing it on the field is another thing. I have known Rohit for a long time. What he did at the top set the ball rolling. he gave us the confidence. He said 'it's okay if we get out for 150. At least we will set the tone, instil fear'. I think all 11 in the team had a great World Cup."</p>

<p>As per reports, the BCCI is keen to have Rohit as India's all-format skipper at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. On Wednesday (Nov 29), head coach Rahul Dravid agreed to extend his contract, which was to end with the 50-over mega event, till the T20 WC next year.</p>


Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin recently recalled India's ODI World Cup 2023 final loss to Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. He stated that it broke his heart when he saw captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in tears following their six-wicket defeat.

Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin recently recalled India's ODI World Cup 2023 final loss to Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. He stated that it broke his heart when he saw captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in tears following their six-wicket defeat. India had a stunning run throughout the home ODI WC, winning ten games on the trot to enter the summit clash, where they eventually came second. Ashwin recalled the campaign and spoke at length about the chemistry between Rohit and Kohli before hailing Hitman's leadership. Speaking to S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated, "Yes, we felt the pain. Rohit and Virat were crying. Seeing that it felt bad. Anyways, not meant to be. This team was an experienced team. Everybody knew what to do. And then, it was professional. Everybody knew their routines, warm-ups. I think two natural leaders gave the team the space to do these two and created a vibe." Also Read: 'It has been devalued': Michael Hussey slams timing of India-Australia T20I series soon after CWC 2023 Ashwin lauded Rohit's captaincy as Hitman led from the front, with his blazing starts, ending with 597 runs -- most by a captain in an ODI WC -- and marshalled the troops really well. He further opined, "If you look at Indian cricket, everybody will tell you MS Dhoni is one of the best captains. Rohit Sharma is an outstanding person. He understands every single person in the team, he knows what each one of us likes and dislikes. He has a great understanding. He puts in the effort to know each member personally." He mentioned, "He puts in a lot of effort. Forgoes sleep and becomes part of meetings, he first puts in the effort. He makes an effort to understand how to explain tactics to each person. That's an advanced level of leadership in Indian cricket." Ashwin then spoke highly about Rohit's fearless approach with the bat at the top and added, "And also, walking the talk. Telling everyone to play a brand of cricket is one thing, but doing it and showing it on the field is another thing. I have known Rohit for a long time. What he did at the top set the ball rolling. he gave us the confidence. He said 'it's okay if we get out for 150. At least we will set the tone, instil fear'. I think all 11 in the team had a great World Cup." As per reports, the BCCI is keen to have Rohit as India's all-format skipper at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. On Wednesday (Nov 29), head coach Rahul Dravid agreed to extend his contract, which was to end with the 50-over mega event, till the T20 WC next year.

'Rohit & Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership

<p>Virat Kohli has decided to not be a part of the Indian tour of South Africa's white-ball leg. India will be visiting South Africa from December 10 for an all-format tour that comprises three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests. Kohli has informed the BCCI that he'll be available for the red-ball cricket in South Africa which starts December 26.</p>

<p>The developments were reported by the Indian Express which also said that the batter will get back to the BCCI when he wants to play white-ball cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-offers-contract-extension-to-head-coach-rahul-dravid-says-report-664121">BCCI offers contract extension to head coach Rahul Dravid, says report</a></p>

<p>“He (Kohli) has informed the BCCI and selectors that he needs a break from white-ball cricket and he will get back to them about when he wants to play white-ball cricket next. At the moment he has informed the BCCI that he will be playing red-ball cricket, which means he is available for selection for the two Test matches in South Africa,” a source reportedly said, as per the Indian Express.</p>

<p>Kohli was the best batter at the recently-concluded ODI World Cup 2023 where India finished the runners-up. Kohli scored 765 runs in 11 innings - the most in any edition. He scored those runs at an average of 95.62 with the help of three hundreds and six fifties. His nine fifty-plus scores were also the best by a batter in one edition of the ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>Kohli, with the hundred against New Zealand in the semi-final, also became the first player in history to score 50 ODI hundreds. He went past Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record of 49 ODI tons.</p>

<p>Overall, Kohli has been one of the most fearsome ODI batters of all time. He has 13,848 runs in 292 matches - third best overall behind Sachin's 18,426 in 463 matches and Sri Lanka great Kumar Sangakkara's 14,234 in 404 matches.</p>


Virat Kohli has decided to not be a part of the Indian tour of South Africa's white-ball leg. India will be visiting South Africa from December 10 for an all-format tour that comprises three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests.

Virat Kohli has decided to not be a part of the Indian tour of South Africa's white-ball leg. India will be visiting South Africa from December 10 for an all-format tour that comprises three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests. Kohli has informed the BCCI that he'll be available for the red-ball cricket in South Africa which starts December 26. The developments were reported by the Indian Express which also said that the batter will get back to the BCCI when he wants to play white-ball cricket. Also Read: BCCI offers contract extension to head coach Rahul Dravid, says report “He (Kohli) has informed the BCCI and selectors that he needs a break from white-ball cricket and he will get back to them about when he wants to play white-ball cricket next. At the moment he has informed the BCCI that he will be playing red-ball cricket, which means he is available for selection for the two Test matches in South Africa,” a source reportedly said, as per the Indian Express. Kohli was the best batter at the recently-concluded ODI World Cup 2023 where India finished the runners-up. Kohli scored 765 runs in 11 innings - the most in any edition. He scored those runs at an average of 95.62 with the help of three hundreds and six fifties. His nine fifty-plus scores were also the best by a batter in one edition of the ODI World Cup. Kohli, with the hundred against New Zealand in the semi-final, also became the first player in history to score 50 ODI hundreds. He went past Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record of 49 ODI tons. Overall, Kohli has been one of the most fearsome ODI batters of all time. He has 13,848 runs in 292 matches - third best overall behind Sachin's 18,426 in 463 matches and Sri Lanka great Kumar Sangakkara's 14,234 in 404 matches.

Virat Kohli takes break from white-ball cricket, to skip ODIs and T20Is on India's tour of South Africa

<p>Not all promises are meant to be broken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the much-anticipated World Cup 2023 final against India in Ahmedabad, Pat Cummins vowed to silence the mega crowd with an Aussie win on D-Day, and he delivered. While a six-wicket win had every Australian fan scream at the top of their voice inside the stadium, Cummins cherished silencing over 90,000 spectators with Virat Kohli's wicket in the first innings.</p>

<p>"I think you've got to embrace it [large crowd]. The crowd's obviously going to be very one-sided, but in sports, there's nothing more satisfying than hearing a big crowd go silent, and that's the aim for us tomorrow. Yeah, you've just got to embrace every part of it, every part of a final - even in the lead-up, there's going to be noise and more people and interest, and you just can't get overwhelmed," Cummins had said in the presser before the World Cup final.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, after Australia picked three wickets inside the first 10 overs, including that of India captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul built a stand to put the Men in Blue in the driver's seat. At a time when the pair looked like taking the momentum away from Australia, Cummins returned and bowled Kohli, stunning everyone.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-hes-ideal-fit-for-us-rcbs-director-of-cricket-on-cameron-greens-trade-663482">IPL 2024: 'He's ideal fit for us' - RCB's director of cricket on Cameron Green's trade</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on the same lines, Cummins said right after Virat's wicket, Steve Smith asked everyone to listen to the silence that it brought. Admitting to have paused for a minute, Cummins revealed it was as quite as a library.</p>

<p>"We're in the huddle (after the Kohli wicket), and Steve Smith says, "Boys, listen to the crowd for a second." And we just took a moment of pause, and it was as quiet as a library; 1,00,000 Indians there, and it was so quiet. I'll savour that moment for a long time," Cummins was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald.</p>

<h2>Kohli's wicket broke India's back</h2>

<p>After Kohli's dismissal, India found it hard to keep up with the momentum, as batters, including settled KL Rahul, went into defensive mode. Australia made the most of this moment and crawled their way back into the game, dismissing India on an under-par total of 240.</p>

<p>Even though Australia lost three wickets inside the Powerplay, with David Warner and Steve Smith back in the hut, Travis Head's second World Cup hundred helped them cross the winning line with relative ease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With that win, Australia won their record sixth World Cup, the most by any team.&nbsp;</p>


Not all promises are meant to be broken. Ahead of the much-anticipated World Cup 2023 final against India in Ahmedabad, Pat Cummins vowed to silence the mega crowd with an Aussie win on D-Day, and he delivered.

Not all promises are meant to be broken. Ahead of the much-anticipated World Cup 2023 final against India in Ahmedabad, Pat Cummins vowed to silence the mega crowd with an Aussie win on D-Day, and he delivered. While a six-wicket win had every Australian fan scream at the top of their voice inside the stadium, Cummins cherished silencing over 90,000 spectators with Virat Kohli's wicket in the first innings. "I think you've got to embrace it [large crowd]. The crowd's obviously going to be very one-sided, but in sports, there's nothing more satisfying than hearing a big crowd go silent, and that's the aim for us tomorrow. Yeah, you've just got to embrace every part of it, every part of a final - even in the lead-up, there's going to be noise and more people and interest, and you just can't get overwhelmed," Cummins had said in the presser before the World Cup final. Meanwhile, after Australia picked three wickets inside the first 10 overs, including that of India captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul built a stand to put the Men in Blue in the driver's seat. At a time when the pair looked like taking the momentum away from Australia, Cummins returned and bowled Kohli, stunning everyone. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: 'He's ideal fit for us' - RCB's director of cricket on Cameron Green's trade Speaking on the same lines, Cummins said right after Virat's wicket, Steve Smith asked everyone to listen to the silence that it brought. Admitting to have paused for a minute, Cummins revealed it was as quite as a library. "We're in the huddle (after the Kohli wicket), and Steve Smith says, "Boys, listen to the crowd for a second." And we just took a moment of pause, and it was as quiet as a library; 1,00,000 Indians there, and it was so quiet. I'll savour that moment for a long time," Cummins was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald. Kohli's wicket broke India's back After Kohli's dismissal, India found it hard to keep up with the momentum, as batters, including settled KL Rahul, went into defensive mode. Australia made the most of this moment and crawled their way back into the game, dismissing India on an under-par total of 240. Even though Australia lost three wickets inside the Powerplay, with David Warner and Steve Smith back in the hut, Travis Head's second World Cup hundred helped them cross the winning line with relative ease. With that win, Australia won their record sixth World Cup, the most by any team.

CWC - Silencing 100,000 people after Kohli's wicket is the moment I will savour for long: Pat Cummins

<p>The star Indian pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are currently out of contention from the T20I squad, with the latest reports suggesting Rohit himself asked selectors to prefer youngsters going forward. Rohit’s old foe on the field and a friend of his, Chris Gayle, has echoed his thoughts on what the future holds for these two stalwarts in the shortest format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since last year’s T20 World Cup in Australia, where India got knocked out in the semis, Virat and Rohit haven’t appeared for India in the T20Is. However, Gayle, a veteran and perhaps the best T20 cricketer batter, said if both want to continue, then they must as they have the right to take a call on their T20I future, considering the T20 World Cup, which is nearly seven months away.</p>

<p>Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Legends League Cricket (LLC), Gayle backed Rohit to play a crucial role in India’s preparation for the World T20 title in the West Indies and the USA next year.</p>

<p>"Those guys have to make a call for themselves. If they want to play, why not? They have done a lot for the country, and they deserve to make a call on themselves," Gayle told IANS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-darren-bravo-to-take-break-from-cricket-to-ponder-on-future-after-latest-snub-663035">West Indies' Darren Bravo to take break from cricket to ponder on future after latest snub</a></strong></p>

<p>Much like how Gayle approaches his game, Rohit has almost followed the same path over the years. Hailing the hard-hitting Indian captain, Gayle said,&nbsp;"I like his aggressive batting. I want batters to destroy bowlers, and Rohit Sharma is one of them who does that."</p>

<p>Gayle also showered words of praise on his former IPL teammate Virat Kohli, who, during the recently-concluded World Cup, completed his 50th ODI hundred, going past legendary Sachin Tendulkar on the list of players with the most tons in the 50-over format.</p>

<p>"To get the 50 ODI century is unbelievable. It was just fantastic to break the record of a legendary player like Sachin Tendulkar. And I don't see anyone getting close to that record,” Gayle added.</p>

<h2>India’s road to 2024 T20 World Cup</h2>

<p>After the World Cup 2023 final heartbreak, the young Indian Team is taking on Australia in the home five-match T20Is. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the new-look side is currently coached by NCA head VVS Laxman, who is said to be taking over the head coach’s role from Dravid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though uncertainty around who would lead India in next year's T20 World Cup keeps floating, the Men in Blue will look to tick off the right balance of youngsters and experienced players in their squad.</p>


The star Indian pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are currently out of contention from the T20I squad, with the latest reports suggesting Rohit himself asked selectors to prefer youngsters going forward.

The star Indian pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are currently out of contention from the T20I squad, with the latest reports suggesting Rohit himself asked selectors to prefer youngsters going forward. Rohit’s old foe on the field and a friend of his, Chris Gayle, has echoed his thoughts on what the future holds for these two stalwarts in the shortest format. Since last year’s T20 World Cup in Australia, where India got knocked out in the semis, Virat and Rohit haven’t appeared for India in the T20Is. However, Gayle, a veteran and perhaps the best T20 cricketer batter, said if both want to continue, then they must as they have the right to take a call on their T20I future, considering the T20 World Cup, which is nearly seven months away. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Legends League Cricket (LLC), Gayle backed Rohit to play a crucial role in India’s preparation for the World T20 title in the West Indies and the USA next year. "Those guys have to make a call for themselves. If they want to play, why not? They have done a lot for the country, and they deserve to make a call on themselves," Gayle told IANS. ALSO READ: West Indies' Darren Bravo to take break from cricket to ponder on future after latest snub Much like how Gayle approaches his game, Rohit has almost followed the same path over the years. Hailing the hard-hitting Indian captain, Gayle said, "I like his aggressive batting. I want batters to destroy bowlers, and Rohit Sharma is one of them who does that." Gayle also showered words of praise on his former IPL teammate Virat Kohli, who, during the recently-concluded World Cup, completed his 50th ODI hundred, going past legendary Sachin Tendulkar on the list of players with the most tons in the 50-over format. "To get the 50 ODI century is unbelievable. It was just fantastic to break the record of a legendary player like Sachin Tendulkar. And I don't see anyone getting close to that record,” Gayle added. India’s road to 2024 T20 World Cup After the World Cup 2023 final heartbreak, the young Indian Team is taking on Australia in the home five-match T20Is. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the new-look side is currently coached by NCA head VVS Laxman, who is said to be taking over the head coach’s role from Dravid. Though uncertainty around who would lead India in next year's T20 World Cup keeps floating, the Men in Blue will look to tick off the right balance of youngsters and experienced players in their squad.

Rohit, Kohli deserve to take call on their T20I future: Chris Gayle

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli: Players with 600-plus runs in an ODI World Cup

From Virat Kohli to Kumar Sangakkara: Top 5 batters with most runs in ODI & T20 World Cups

The Indian cricket team won all of their matches at the ODI World Cup but slipped at the final hurdle. The Men in Blue suffered a six-wicket loss to Australia in the summit clash but won a billion hearts with their impressive performance throughout the tournament.

ODI WC: Saluting the spirit of the men in blue | Gravitas

<p>India lost the ODI World Cup final to Australia by six wickets on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India only managed 240 in 50 overs before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58* took the Aussies to their sixth ODI WC title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited India's dressing room to lift the mood of the Indian players, who were shattered post the defeat. Modi was present in the stands during Australia's run-chase. In the dressing room, he acknowledged India's performances throughout the World Cup and asked them to keep their morale up for a memorable campaign, where they won 10 games in a row before losing the final.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridis-remark-goes-viral-feels-overconfidence-led-to-indias-downfall-in-odi-wc-final-660981">Shahid Afridi's remark goes VIRAL, feels 'OVERCONFIDENCE' led to India's downfall in ODI WC final</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here is the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> visits Team India's dressing room to offer words of encouragement and support after the heartbreaking loss in the World Cup final<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ggPI4arpuo">pic.twitter.com/ggPI4arpuo</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1726822623718592947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>From India, captain Rohit (40), Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (66) were the only performers as the home team managed a below-par score. Mitchell Starc's 3 for 55 and two wickets each from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood restricted India's famed batting line-up. In reply, Australia were tottering at 47 for 3 before Head (137) and Marnus Labuschange (58 not out) took the Aussies home with a match-winning 192-run fourth-wicket stand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, a dejected Rohit opened up on the loss. He stated, "The result has not gone our way. We were not good enough today. We tried everything but it wasn't supposed to be. 20-30 runs more would have been good, KL and Kohli were stitching a good partnership and we were looking at 270-280 but we kept losing wickets. When you have 240 on the board, you want to take wickets but credit to Head and Labuschagne who stitched together a big partnership and put us completely out of the game. We tried everything we could but I feel wicket got slightly better to bat under lights. Don't want to give that as an excuse."</p>


India lost the ODI World Cup final to Australia by six wickets on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India only managed 240 in 50 overs before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58* took the Aussies to their sixth ODI WC title.

India lost the ODI World Cup final to Australia by six wickets on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India only managed 240 in 50 overs before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58* took the Aussies to their sixth ODI WC title. After the match, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited India's dressing room to lift the mood of the Indian players, who were shattered post the defeat. Modi was present in the stands during Australia's run-chase. In the dressing room, he acknowledged India's performances throughout the World Cup and asked them to keep their morale up for a memorable campaign, where they won 10 games in a row before losing the final. Also read: Shahid Afridi's remark goes VIRAL, feels 'OVERCONFIDENCE' led to India's downfall in ODI WC final Here is the video: Prime Minister #NarendraModi visits Team India's dressing room to offer words of encouragement and support after the heartbreaking loss in the World Cup final#WorldCup2023 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ggPI4arpuo — WION (@WIONews) November 21, 2023 × From India, captain Rohit (40), Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (66) were the only performers as the home team managed a below-par score. Mitchell Starc's 3 for 55 and two wickets each from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood restricted India's famed batting line-up. In reply, Australia were tottering at 47 for 3 before Head (137) and Marnus Labuschange (58 not out) took the Aussies home with a match-winning 192-run fourth-wicket stand. At the post-match presentation, a dejected Rohit opened up on the loss. He stated, "The result has not gone our way. We were not good enough today. We tried everything but it wasn't supposed to be. 20-30 runs more would have been good, KL and Kohli were stitching a good partnership and we were looking at 270-280 but we kept losing wickets. When you have 240 on the board, you want to take wickets but credit to Head and Labuschagne who stitched together a big partnership and put us completely out of the game. We tried everything we could but I feel wicket got slightly better to bat under lights. Don't want to give that as an excuse."

WATCH: PM Modi visits Indian dressing room to uplift players after heartbreaking loss in ODI WC final

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering sacking its entire group of support staff members. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indian cricket team dressing room after the Men in Blue lost the Cricket World Cup 2023 final to Australia in Ahmedabad.

Pakistan to sack entire set of foreign coaches; PM Modi consoles Team India after World Cup

Several opening batters excelled at the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. Quinton De Kock scored four centuries, David Warner had over 500 runs, Rohit Sharma set the tone for India while Travis Head proved to be the ultimate big-match player. Who makes it to Dav Whatmore's team of the 2023 ODI World Cup?

Who will open the batting in WION's World Cup XI?

<p>India suffered another heartbreaking loss in the ODI World Cup at the hands of Australia as they lost the 2023 edition's final by six wickets on November 19 in Ahmedabad. The Indian players were visibly emotional after the loss in a campaign where they remained unbeaten before the law of averages caught up with them in the final.</p>

<p>In a video shared by the ICC on its official Instagram handle, pacer Mohammed Siraj can be seen in tears as Jasprit Bumrah consoles him, while KL Rahul is&nbsp;down on his haunches. Player of the Tournament Virat Kohli has no expression on his face and even the support staff is distraught. Have a look at the emotional video below:</p>

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<p>With the win, Australia extended their ODI World Cup title tally to a new record - they now have six ODI World Cup titles (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023) while the next best is two by West Indies (1975 and 1979) and India (1983 and 2011).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-india-coach-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-dressing-room-emotions-after-loss-in-final-660646">India coach Rahul Dravid opens up on dressing room EMOTIONS after loss in final</a></p>

<p>In the match, Australia won the toss and asked India to bat first which India skipper Rohit Sharma wanted to do anyway. The Aussies, however, kept picking wickets at regular intervals as India folded out for a modest 240.</p>

<p>In reply, India did take three quick wickets but a calm Travis Head scored 137 off 120 and added 192 runs for the fourth wicket with Marnus Labuschagne (58 not out) as they chased the target in 43 overs with six wickets remaining.</p>

<p>The campaign did produce some highs for India with Virat Kohli scoring 765 runs in 11 innings - the most in a single edition of an ODI World Cup. He also recorded nine fifty-plus scores - again the most in a single edition of the tournament. His 117 against the Kiwis also took him past Sachin Tendulkar for most hundreds in the ODIs - Kohli now has 50 ODI tons which is the most in the history of the 50-over format.</p>

<p>As for bowling, Mohammed Shami was a revelation with 24 wickets in just seven matches and recorded the best figures for an Indian in both ODIs and ODI World Cups, with 7/57 against New Zealand in the semi-final.</p>


India suffered another heartbreaking loss in the ODI World Cup at the hands of Australia as they lost the 2023 edition's final by six wickets on November 19 in Ahmedabad.

India suffered another heartbreaking loss in the ODI World Cup at the hands of Australia as they lost the 2023 edition's final by six wickets on November 19 in Ahmedabad. The Indian players were visibly emotional after the loss in a campaign where they remained unbeaten before the law of averages caught up with them in the final. In a video shared by the ICC on its official Instagram handle, pacer Mohammed Siraj can be seen in tears as Jasprit Bumrah consoles him, while KL Rahul is down on his haunches. Player of the Tournament Virat Kohli has no expression on his face and even the support staff is distraught. Have a look at the emotional video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × With the win, Australia extended their ODI World Cup title tally to a new record - they now have six ODI World Cup titles (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023) while the next best is two by West Indies (1975 and 1979) and India (1983 and 2011). Also Read: India coach Rahul Dravid opens up on dressing room EMOTIONS after loss in final In the match, Australia won the toss and asked India to bat first which India skipper Rohit Sharma wanted to do anyway. The Aussies, however, kept picking wickets at regular intervals as India folded out for a modest 240. In reply, India did take three quick wickets but a calm Travis Head scored 137 off 120 and added 192 runs for the fourth wicket with Marnus Labuschagne (58 not out) as they chased the target in 43 overs with six wickets remaining. The campaign did produce some highs for India with Virat Kohli scoring 765 runs in 11 innings - the most in a single edition of an ODI World Cup. He also recorded nine fifty-plus scores - again the most in a single edition of the tournament. His 117 against the Kiwis also took him past Sachin Tendulkar for most hundreds in the ODIs - Kohli now has 50 ODI tons which is the most in the history of the 50-over format. As for bowling, Mohammed Shami was a revelation with 24 wickets in just seven matches and recorded the best figures for an Indian in both ODIs and ODI World Cups, with 7/57 against New Zealand in the semi-final.

ODI World Cup 2023: Tearful Siraj, stoic Kohli and Rahul on knees - India players after loss in final | WATCH

<p>India batter Virat Kohli was adjudged Player of the Tournament of the ODI World Cup 2023 for his historic 765 runs in 11 innings. This is the most runs scored ever in a single edition of an ODI World Cup, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's previous record of 673 runs set in the 2003 edition.</p>

<p>Kohli also recorded nine fifty-plus scores in the 2023 edition of the quadrennial tournament - the most for any player and again going past Sachin Tendulkar's record of seven fifty-plus scores which the latter had set in 2003.</p>

<p>Kohli started the campaign with a match-winning 85 against Australia in Chennai and his innings ensured that India, who were three down for two runs at one point, won the match comfortably in the end.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-he-wanted-to-lead-by-an-example-and-he-did-dravid-lauds-rohit-following-finals-loss-to-aus-660587">He wanted to lead by an example and he did: Dravid lauds Rohit following final’s loss to AUS</a></p>

<p>He followed it with 55 not out against Afghanistan, playing second fiddle to India skipper Rohit Sharma who scored a belligerent 131. The India batter,&nbsp;in the next match against arch-rivals Pakistan, could score only 16 but hit 103 not out in the very next match against Bangladesh.</p>

<p>Playing against New Zealand in Dharamsala, Kohli scored 95 in a match-winning effort but got out on a duck in the next match vs England in Lucknow.</p>

<p>Against Sri Lanka in Mumbai, Kohli scored 88 out of India's huge total of 357 runs and followed it with 101 not out against South Africa. His century against Proteas also took him at par with Sachin's record 49 ODI tons.</p>

<p>In India's last league match against Netherlands, Kohli got out after scoring 51. Come the semi-final, Kohli hit the record-setting 50th ODI ton, scoring 117 against New Zealand in Mumbai as India posted 397. In the final against Australia, Kohli scored 54 before getting out off an inside edge at a crucial moment in the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli's runs, which came at an average of 95.62, made sure that India reached the final undefeated. In the tournament ender, however, Australia got the better of India and went on to win their record sixth ODI World Cup title.</p>


India batter Virat Kohli was adjudged Player of the Tournament of the ODI World Cup 2023 for his historic 765 runs in 11 innings. This is the most runs scored ever in a single edition of an ODI World Cup, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's previous record of 673 runs set in the 2003 edition.

India batter Virat Kohli was adjudged Player of the Tournament of the ODI World Cup 2023 for his historic 765 runs in 11 innings. This is the most runs scored ever in a single edition of an ODI World Cup, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's previous record of 673 runs set in the 2003 edition. Kohli also recorded nine fifty-plus scores in the 2023 edition of the quadrennial tournament - the most for any player and again going past Sachin Tendulkar's record of seven fifty-plus scores which the latter had set in 2003. Kohli started the campaign with a match-winning 85 against Australia in Chennai and his innings ensured that India, who were three down for two runs at one point, won the match comfortably in the end. Also Read: He wanted to lead by an example and he did: Dravid lauds Rohit following final’s loss to AUS He followed it with 55 not out against Afghanistan, playing second fiddle to India skipper Rohit Sharma who scored a belligerent 131. The India batter, in the next match against arch-rivals Pakistan, could score only 16 but hit 103 not out in the very next match against Bangladesh. Playing against New Zealand in Dharamsala, Kohli scored 95 in a match-winning effort but got out on a duck in the next match vs England in Lucknow. Against Sri Lanka in Mumbai, Kohli scored 88 out of India's huge total of 357 runs and followed it with 101 not out against South Africa. His century against Proteas also took him at par with Sachin's record 49 ODI tons. In India's last league match against Netherlands, Kohli got out after scoring 51. Come the semi-final, Kohli hit the record-setting 50th ODI ton, scoring 117 against New Zealand in Mumbai as India posted 397. In the final against Australia, Kohli scored 54 before getting out off an inside edge at a crucial moment in the game. Kohli's runs, which came at an average of 95.62, made sure that India reached the final undefeated. In the tournament ender, however, Australia got the better of India and went on to win their record sixth ODI World Cup title.

ODI World Cup 2023: India's Virat Kohli named Player of the Tournament for record-breaking 765 runs

<p>India lost to Australia by six wickets in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the&nbsp;Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, India rode on captain Rohit Sharma's 47 (31), Virat Kohli's 54 and KL Rahul's 66 to post a below-par 240 in 50 overs. In reply, Pat Cummins-led Aussies rode on Travis Head's majestic 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58* to win in 43 overs.</p>

<p>After the game, emotions were high as Indian players were shattered after missing out on winning an ICC title at home. India were excellent throughout the competition, winning ten games on the trot, before falling apart in the final. Thus, the likes of Rohit, Virat and many others were emotional and carried a dejected face at the post-match award ceremony. Just then, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar --&nbsp;Global Ambassador for the mega event -- came to the players' aid and consoled Rohit &amp; Co.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-just-rahul-dravid-uncertain-about-his-future-as-india-head-coach-after-cwc-2023-final-loss-660674">'I've just...': Rahul Dravid uncertain about his future as India head coach after CWC 2023 final loss</a></strong></p>

<p>Tendulkar met each and every Indian player&nbsp;who was waiting for the commencement of the award ceremony and went to coach Dravid, Kohli, and Rohit as well. He was later seen having a brief chat with skipper Rohit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, a dejected Rohit opened up on the loss in the summit clash. He said, "The result has not gone our way. We were not good enough today. We tried everything but it wasn't supposed to be. 20-30 runs more would have been good, KL and Kohli were stitching a good partnership and we were looking at 270-280 but we kept losing wickets. When you have 240 on the board, you want to take wickets but credit to Head and Labuschagne who stitched together a big partnership and put us completely out of the game. We tried everything we could but I feel wicket got slightly better to bat under lights. Don't want to give that as an excuse."</p>

<p>Head-Labuschagne stitched a match-winning 192-run fourth-wicket stand after Australia were reeling at 47 for 3 in a chase of&nbsp;241. The pair gave India no chance to come back into the contest with Head dominating every bowler whereas Labuschagne held one end firmly.</p>

<p>This became Australia's sixth ODI WC triumph and their&nbsp;men's team's 10th ICC title overall.&nbsp;</p>


India lost to Australia by six wickets in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, India rode on captain Rohit Sharma's 47 (31), Virat Kohli's 54 and KL Rahul's 66 to post a below-par 240 in 50 overs.

India lost to Australia by six wickets in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, India rode on captain Rohit Sharma's 47 (31), Virat Kohli's 54 and KL Rahul's 66 to post a below-par 240 in 50 overs. In reply, Pat Cummins-led Aussies rode on Travis Head's majestic 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58* to win in 43 overs. After the game, emotions were high as Indian players were shattered after missing out on winning an ICC title at home. India were excellent throughout the competition, winning ten games on the trot, before falling apart in the final. Thus, the likes of Rohit, Virat and many others were emotional and carried a dejected face at the post-match award ceremony. Just then, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar -- Global Ambassador for the mega event -- came to the players' aid and consoled Rohit & Co. Also read: 'I've just...': Rahul Dravid uncertain about his future as India head coach after CWC 2023 final loss Tendulkar met each and every Indian player who was waiting for the commencement of the award ceremony and went to coach Dravid, Kohli, and Rohit as well. He was later seen having a brief chat with skipper Rohit. At the post-match presentation, a dejected Rohit opened up on the loss in the summit clash. He said, "The result has not gone our way. We were not good enough today. We tried everything but it wasn't supposed to be. 20-30 runs more would have been good, KL and Kohli were stitching a good partnership and we were looking at 270-280 but we kept losing wickets. When you have 240 on the board, you want to take wickets but credit to Head and Labuschagne who stitched together a big partnership and put us completely out of the game. We tried everything we could but I feel wicket got slightly better to bat under lights. Don't want to give that as an excuse." Head-Labuschagne stitched a match-winning 192-run fourth-wicket stand after Australia were reeling at 47 for 3 in a chase of 241. The pair gave India no chance to come back into the contest with Head dominating every bowler whereas Labuschagne held one end firmly. This became Australia's sixth ODI WC triumph and their men's team's 10th ICC title overall.

World Cup Final: Sachin Tendulkar comes to India's aid, consoles emotional Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli

IN PICS: From Virat Kohli to Travis Head, from ecstasy to heartbreaks - Top 5 moments from ODI World Cup final

<p>Be it the group stage or the World Cup final, Mohammed Shami cannot stop picking wickets in his first over. India’s ace seamer sent a batter packing with a Jaffa for the nth time in this tournament. Bowling to veteran David Warner with the new ball, Shami, coming in from around the wicket, bowled it away from Warner only for him to edge it to the slip cordon.</p>

<p>Shami removing Warner on seven brought more than 100,000 Indian fans present inside the stadium on their feet.</p>

<p>Watch the Video here -</p>

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<p>After Bumrah went for three fours in the first over, two hit by Travis Head and one by Warner, India needed a superhuman effort in the very next over to turn things around, and who better to do it than the highest wicket-taker, Mohammed Shami?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike starting with Mohammed Siraj, Rohit asked Shami to take the new ball and deliver, which he did.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-watch-kl-rahul-perishes-to-mitchell-starcs-reverse-swing-india-slump-further-660451">World Cup 2023, WATCH: KL Rahul perishes to Mitchell Starc's reverse swing, India slump further</a></strong></p>

<p>Coming in with momentum, confidence and whatnot on his back, Shami bowled a wide straightaway on the leg side before getting the big wicket of Warner caught in the first slip by Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>Mitchell Marsh tried putting India’s back against the wall with some dreamy shots, and although he succeeded in hitting a couple, including smashing Shami over the head for a six, he edged one to KL Rahul off Bumrah on 15.</p>

<p>With two wickets down inside the first five overs, India was back in the game, defending a modest 241 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Australia’s best batter, Steve Smith, entered the scene, hitting a four off Bumrah to silence the crowd. Before he could pounce on the momentum,&nbsp;Bumrah bowled a slower delivery to trap him in front of the wickets. Though he didn’t review it, replays showed the ball was pitching outside.</p>

<p>In ten overs, Australia scored 60 for three.&nbsp;</p>


Be it the group stage or the World Cup final, Mohammed Shami cannot stop picking wickets in his first over. India’s ace seamer sent a batter packing with a Jaffa for the nth time in this tournament.

Be it the group stage or the World Cup final, Mohammed Shami cannot stop picking wickets in his first over. India’s ace seamer sent a batter packing with a Jaffa for the nth time in this tournament. Bowling to veteran David Warner with the new ball, Shami, coming in from around the wicket, bowled it away from Warner only for him to edge it to the slip cordon. Shami removing Warner on seven brought more than 100,000 Indian fans present inside the stadium on their feet. Watch the Video here - View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × After Bumrah went for three fours in the first over, two hit by Travis Head and one by Warner, India needed a superhuman effort in the very next over to turn things around, and who better to do it than the highest wicket-taker, Mohammed Shami? Unlike starting with Mohammed Siraj, Rohit asked Shami to take the new ball and deliver, which he did. ALSO READ: World Cup 2023, WATCH: KL Rahul perishes to Mitchell Starc's reverse swing, India slump further Coming in with momentum, confidence and whatnot on his back, Shami bowled a wide straightaway on the leg side before getting the big wicket of Warner caught in the first slip by Virat Kohli. Mitchell Marsh tried putting India’s back against the wall with some dreamy shots, and although he succeeded in hitting a couple, including smashing Shami over the head for a six, he edged one to KL Rahul off Bumrah on 15. With two wickets down inside the first five overs, India was back in the game, defending a modest 241 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Australia’s best batter, Steve Smith, entered the scene, hitting a four off Bumrah to silence the crowd. Before he could pounce on the momentum, Bumrah bowled a slower delivery to trap him in front of the wickets. Though he didn’t review it, replays showed the ball was pitching outside. In ten overs, Australia scored 60 for three.

World Cup Final: Shami strikes gold in his first over, gets Warner caught in slips - WATCH

<p>Australia skipper Pat Cummins broke millions if not billions of hearts in the Indian innings on Sunday (Nov 19) after the prize wicket of Virat Kohli. The Indian batter, who has enjoyed a stellar ODI World Cup so far, was dismissed for 54 by Cummins. The wicket proved to be decisive after the Aussies produced the breakthrough at the right moment in the match.</p>

<h2><strong>Cummins breaks Indian hearts</strong></h2>

<p>On the third ball of the 29th over, Cummins's low delivery was played by Virat who surprised him big time with the ball hitting the stumps. This resulted in Virat departing for 54 after scoring his ninth fifty of the tournament. The wicket proved crucial for the Aussies as it ended a partnership of 67 runs with KL Rahul for the fourth wicket. Virat ended up scoring 765 runs in 11 matches at the ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>At the time of writing, India were 162/4 after 32 overs as Rahul (45) and Ravindra Jadeja (5) looked to steady the ship for the hosts. Earlier, it was a double strike on&nbsp;Team India after Australia jolted the Men in Blue in quick succession. India lost Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in quick succession as the Aussies stamped their authority on the contest. Rohit was dismissed on 47 after a superb catch by Travis Head while Shreyas was dismissed on 4 by opposition skipper Pat Cummins. This resulted in India being 81/3 after 10.2 overs at one stage.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/140-crore-indians-are-cheering-for-you-pm-modi-wishes-team-india-ahead-of-cwc-2023-final-vs-australia-660333">140 crore Indians are cheering for you: PM Modi wishes Team India ahead of CWC 2023 final vs Australia</a></p>

<p>Having put into bat first, Rohit and Shubman Gill (4) started the innings on a positive note with the former taking an attacking role. Rohit in the fourth over cleared his intentions and hit Josh Hazlewood for a big six before Gill was dismissed in the next over. Rohit’s innings consisted of 3 sixes and 4 fours and saw the Aussies on the backfoot momentarily.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at toss?</strong></h2>

<p>Australia skipper Cummins won the toss and opted to field first in front of 130, 000 people at the stadium. India famously lost the toss in the 2011 World Cup final as well but later went on to win the contest. They will be hoping for the same on Sunday as well.</p>


Australia skipper Pat Cummins broke millions if not billions of hearts in the Indian innings on Sunday (Nov 19) after the prize wicket of Virat Kohli. The Indian batter, who has enjoyed a stellar ODI World Cup so far, was dismissed for 54 by Cummins.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins broke millions if not billions of hearts in the Indian innings on Sunday (Nov 19) after the prize wicket of Virat Kohli. The Indian batter, who has enjoyed a stellar ODI World Cup so far, was dismissed for 54 by Cummins. The wicket proved to be decisive after the Aussies produced the breakthrough at the right moment in the match. Cummins breaks Indian hearts On the third ball of the 29th over, Cummins's low delivery was played by Virat who surprised him big time with the ball hitting the stumps. This resulted in Virat departing for 54 after scoring his ninth fifty of the tournament. The wicket proved crucial for the Aussies as it ended a partnership of 67 runs with KL Rahul for the fourth wicket. Virat ended up scoring 765 runs in 11 matches at the ODI World Cup. At the time of writing, India were 162/4 after 32 overs as Rahul (45) and Ravindra Jadeja (5) looked to steady the ship for the hosts. Earlier, it was a double strike on Team India after Australia jolted the Men in Blue in quick succession. India lost Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in quick succession as the Aussies stamped their authority on the contest. Rohit was dismissed on 47 after a superb catch by Travis Head while Shreyas was dismissed on 4 by opposition skipper Pat Cummins. This resulted in India being 81/3 after 10.2 overs at one stage. ALSO READ | 140 crore Indians are cheering for you: PM Modi wishes Team India ahead of CWC 2023 final vs Australia Having put into bat first, Rohit and Shubman Gill (4) started the innings on a positive note with the former taking an attacking role. Rohit in the fourth over cleared his intentions and hit Josh Hazlewood for a big six before Gill was dismissed in the next over. Rohit’s innings consisted of 3 sixes and 4 fours and saw the Aussies on the backfoot momentarily. What happened at toss? Australia skipper Cummins won the toss and opted to field first in front of 130, 000 people at the stadium. India famously lost the toss in the 2011 World Cup final as well but later went on to win the contest. They will be hoping for the same on Sunday as well.

ODI World Cup Final: Pat Cummins breaks Indian hearts with prize wicket of Virat Kohli

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