<p>India and Pakistan now lock horns in the 22-yard cricket strip only during multi-nation or ICC events. While the meetings have considerably reduced, due to strained political relations between both nations, the rivalry remains spicy and intense on the field. During the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Pakistan opened their respective campaigns against each other at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. In a one-sided contest, MS Dhoni &amp; Co. beat Misbah-ul-Haq by 76 runs to open their account in style. Although the match didn't live up to expectations, there was a lot of heat and intensity between players from both camps with Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan and Virat Kohli being engaged in a heated spat.</p>

<p>The incident took place when Sohail came to bat during Pakistan's 301-run chase at the Adelaide Oval. As per Sohail, Kohli came up to him and started the war of words. Sohail recalled the episode on the Nadir Ali Podcast. He revealed what Kohli told him in the middle. "Aap cricket mein abhi aaye hain. And itni baatein karte ho (You've just arrived and you speak so much)." To this, Sohail said, "I was a Test cricketer back then. I had played Test matches in 2006-07. Then in between, I endured a troubled knee which forced me out of action. I said 'Beta jab tu Under-19 khel raha tha na, tera baap Test cricketer tha' (Son, when you were playing Under-19 for India, your father [referring to himself] was a Test player). That's how I said it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-heres-which-indian-captain-has-won-most-tests-in-history-of-border-gavaskar-trophy-558459">Not Virat Kohli! Here's which Indian captain has won most Tests in history of Border Gavaskar Trophy</a></strong></p>

<p>Sohail then added, "Then if you see carefully, Misbah intervened and he got angry at me. He asked me to keep quiet. Then MS Dhoni also came and told Kohli 'Side pe ho jao, ye purana chawal hai, tu nahi jaanta isko. (Back down. He has been around for a long time. You don't know him). Kohli then went and stood in one corner."</p>

<p>Talking about the match, Dhoni-led India opted to bat first and rode on Kohli's sublime 107 along with Shikhar Dhawan's 73 and Suresh Raina's 74 to post 300 for 7. In reply, Pakistan never got going in the run-chase with Misbah being the lone warrior; slamming an 84-ball 76. They started off well and were 79 for 1 but once they lost Ahmed Shehzad (47), they never got back in the contest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India went onto top Pool B, comprising Pakistan, South Africa, West Indies, and the likes, to reach the semi-finals -- where they lost to eventual winners Australia -- whereas Pakistan's campaign came to an end in the quarters.</p>


India and Pakistan now lock horns in the 22-yard cricket strip only during multi-nation or ICC events. While the meetings have considerably reduced, due to strained political relations between both nations, the rivalry remains spicy and intense on the field.

India and Pakistan now lock horns in the 22-yard cricket strip only during multi-nation or ICC events. While the meetings have considerably reduced, due to strained political relations between both nations, the rivalry remains spicy and intense on the field. During the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Pakistan opened their respective campaigns against each other at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. In a one-sided contest, MS Dhoni & Co. beat Misbah-ul-Haq by 76 runs to open their account in style. Although the match didn't live up to expectations, there was a lot of heat and intensity between players from both camps with Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan and Virat Kohli being engaged in a heated spat. The incident took place when Sohail came to bat during Pakistan's 301-run chase at the Adelaide Oval. As per Sohail, Kohli came up to him and started the war of words. Sohail recalled the episode on the Nadir Ali Podcast. He revealed what Kohli told him in the middle. "Aap cricket mein abhi aaye hain. And itni baatein karte ho (You've just arrived and you speak so much)." To this, Sohail said, "I was a Test cricketer back then. I had played Test matches in 2006-07. Then in between, I endured a troubled knee which forced me out of action. I said 'Beta jab tu Under-19 khel raha tha na, tera baap Test cricketer tha' (Son, when you were playing Under-19 for India, your father [referring to himself] was a Test player). That's how I said it." Also read: Not Virat Kohli! Here's which Indian captain has won most Tests in history of Border Gavaskar Trophy Sohail then added, "Then if you see carefully, Misbah intervened and he got angry at me. He asked me to keep quiet. Then MS Dhoni also came and told Kohli 'Side pe ho jao, ye purana chawal hai, tu nahi jaanta isko. (Back down. He has been around for a long time. You don't know him). Kohli then went and stood in one corner." Talking about the match, Dhoni-led India opted to bat first and rode on Kohli's sublime 107 along with Shikhar Dhawan's 73 and Suresh Raina's 74 to post 300 for 7. In reply, Pakistan never got going in the run-chase with Misbah being the lone warrior; slamming an 84-ball 76. They started off well and were 79 for 1 but once they lost Ahmed Shehzad (47), they never got back in the contest. India went onto top Pool B, comprising Pakistan, South Africa, West Indies, and the likes, to reach the semi-finals -- where they lost to eventual winners Australia -- whereas Pakistan's campaign came to an end in the quarters.

'You don't know him': PAK pacer recalls Dhoni's words to Kohli during heated exchange in 2015 ODI WC

<p>India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on February 09 in Nagpur. The last few editions of the BGT have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them, and a lot is at stake for both sides in the upcoming Test series, with WTC final spots up for grabs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last three editions saw India beat Australia -- defeating them twice in a row in their own backyard -- and the hosts will be favourites in familiar conditions but Cummins &amp; Co. have enough firepower to replicate their 2004 heroics in India. Ahead of the series opener, here's a list of Indian captains with most wins in history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy:</p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>CAPTAINS</strong></td>
			<td><strong>MATCHES</strong></td>
			<td><strong>WON</strong></td>
			<td><strong>LOST</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MS Dhoni</td>
			<td>13</td>
			<td>8</td>
			<td>4 (1 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>10</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>4 (3 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sourav Ganguly</td>
			<td>9</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>3 (3 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ajinkya Rahane</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>0 (! DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>In the overall list, Dhoni tops the charts once again with Steve Waugh and Michael Clarke following suit -- with five wins each. Under Waugh, Aussies lost thrice and two Tests ended in a draw whereas Clarke-led Australia lost thrice with no drawn encounters.</p>

<p>Thus, Dhoni tops another captaincy list. While he was known for his white-ball heroics, the former keeper-batter was a force to reckon with in whites as well; amassing 4,876 runs including a double ton versus Australia. Under him, India also topped the ICC Test rankings for the first time in late 2009. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins, follows his predecessor in the list of Indian captains with most wins in the history of BGT.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-can-play-till-40-and-will-be-motivated-to-go-for-100-hundreds-dutch-star-roelef-van-der-merwe-558446">Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Full Schedule of 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India:</strong></p>

<p><strong>February 9-13:&nbsp;</strong>1st Test&nbsp;at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur</p>

<p><strong>February 17-21:&nbsp;</strong>2nd Test&nbsp;at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi</p>

<p><strong>March 01-05:&nbsp;</strong>3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala</p>

<p><strong>March 09-13:&nbsp;</strong>4th Test&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad</p>

<p><strong>Squads</strong></p>

<p><strong>India (for first two Tests):</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

<p><strong>Australia:</strong>&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner</p>


India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma & Co.

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma & Co. in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on February 09 in Nagpur. The last few editions of the BGT have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them, and a lot is at stake for both sides in the upcoming Test series, with WTC final spots up for grabs. The last three editions saw India beat Australia -- defeating them twice in a row in their own backyard -- and the hosts will be favourites in familiar conditions but Cummins & Co. have enough firepower to replicate their 2004 heroics in India. Ahead of the series opener, here's a list of Indian captains with most wins in history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy: CAPTAINS MATCHES WON LOST MS Dhoni 13 8 4 (1 DRAWN) Virat Kohli 10 3 4 (3 DRAWN) Sourav Ganguly 9 3 3 (3 DRAWN) Ajinkya Rahane 4 3 0 (! DRAWN) In the overall list, Dhoni tops the charts once again with Steve Waugh and Michael Clarke following suit -- with five wins each. Under Waugh, Aussies lost thrice and two Tests ended in a draw whereas Clarke-led Australia lost thrice with no drawn encounters. Thus, Dhoni tops another captaincy list. While he was known for his white-ball heroics, the former keeper-batter was a force to reckon with in whites as well; amassing 4,876 runs including a double ton versus Australia. Under him, India also topped the ICC Test rankings for the first time in late 2009. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins, follows his predecessor in the list of Indian captains with most wins in the history of BGT. Also read: Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe Full Schedule of 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India: February 9-13: 1st Test at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur February 17-21: 2nd Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi March 01-05: 3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala March 09-13: 4th Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Not Virat Kohli! Here's which Indian captain has won most Tests in history of Border Gavaskar Trophy

<p>Netherlands' star all-rounder Roelef van der Merwe, who has also represented South Africa in the past, has backed Virat Kohli to keep going at the international level till 40 and has backed him to go for 100 hundreds, breaking Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's record. Roelef, at 38, has shown his zeal for the game and time and again impressed with his all-round skills. None can forget his memorable catch, to get rid of David Miller, in the Netherlands' shocking win over South Africa in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He is currently the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing inaugural SA20; 14 wickets in 6 matches for SunRisers Eastern Cape and remains a vital batter down the order as well. Many have lauded him for his fitness standards at such an age. Hence, he certainly knows what it takes to remain relevant at the highest level at the latter half of 30s and has backed Kohli -- one of the fittest cricketers --&nbsp;to play for long.</p>

<p>Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the SA20 campaign, Roelef hailed Kohli and told India Today.in,&nbsp;"I think Virat is a great player. Yes, I think he can do that. 100 hundreds, those things will be in the back of his mind. In India, following somebody like Sachin, it's a big deal. I think it will be in the back of his mind. He will be motivated to keep going."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-hardik-pandya-presents-t20i-series-trophy-to-benched-prithvi-shaw-as-video-goes-viral-watch-558224">IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya presents T20I series trophy to benched Prithvi Shaw as video goes viral - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Van der Merwe , has played 16 ODIs and 52 T20Is, also spoke about what keeps him going at 38. "Look, I love playing cricket, I love winning games. I am a very competitive person. It's the urge to win games that keep you going. As I said, I am a very competitive person in everyday life. As long I am winning games, I will keep going. That will keep me motivated."</p>

<p>Van der Merwe remains&nbsp;the few men to represent two national sides in T20 cricket. Given his passion and fitness standards, he will surely be seen in action for a few more years at the highest level. Speaking of Kohli, the 34-year-old is gearing up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, as India will host Australia in the four-match Test series opener in Nagpur on February 09.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli moved past his dismal run during the 2022 Asia Cup. Since then, he has slammed four tons -- three in ODIs and a solitary one in T20Is. He will now be desperate to break his Test-century drought, since late 2019 during the Australia series.</p>


Netherlands' star all-rounder Roelef van der Merwe, who has also represented South Africa in the past, has backed Virat Kohli to keep going at the international level till 40 and has backed him to go for 100 hundreds, breaking Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's record.

Netherlands' star all-rounder Roelef van der Merwe, who has also represented South Africa in the past, has backed Virat Kohli to keep going at the international level till 40 and has backed him to go for 100 hundreds, breaking Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's record. Roelef, at 38, has shown his zeal for the game and time and again impressed with his all-round skills. None can forget his memorable catch, to get rid of David Miller, in the Netherlands' shocking win over South Africa in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He is currently the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing inaugural SA20; 14 wickets in 6 matches for SunRisers Eastern Cape and remains a vital batter down the order as well. Many have lauded him for his fitness standards at such an age. Hence, he certainly knows what it takes to remain relevant at the highest level at the latter half of 30s and has backed Kohli -- one of the fittest cricketers -- to play for long. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the SA20 campaign, Roelef hailed Kohli and told India Today.in, "I think Virat is a great player. Yes, I think he can do that. 100 hundreds, those things will be in the back of his mind. In India, following somebody like Sachin, it's a big deal. I think it will be in the back of his mind. He will be motivated to keep going." Also read: IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya presents T20I series trophy to benched Prithvi Shaw as video goes viral - Watch Van der Merwe , has played 16 ODIs and 52 T20Is, also spoke about what keeps him going at 38. "Look, I love playing cricket, I love winning games. I am a very competitive person. It's the urge to win games that keep you going. As I said, I am a very competitive person in everyday life. As long I am winning games, I will keep going. That will keep me motivated." Van der Merwe remains the few men to represent two national sides in T20 cricket. Given his passion and fitness standards, he will surely be seen in action for a few more years at the highest level. Speaking of Kohli, the 34-year-old is gearing up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, as India will host Australia in the four-match Test series opener in Nagpur on February 09. Kohli moved past his dismal run during the 2022 Asia Cup. Since then, he has slammed four tons -- three in ODIs and a solitary one in T20Is. He will now be desperate to break his Test-century drought, since late 2019 during the Australia series.

Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe

<p>Ever since India lost the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals, versus eventual winners England, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I squad. While nothing official has been announced regarding Rohit and Kohli's T20I future, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer recently shared a bold prediction with regard to the two stalwarts of Indian cricket.</p>

<p>Jaffer believes that the 34-year-old Kohli might still have a chance to play in the 2024 T20 World Cup, but insisted that doors for a comeback are more or less closed for Rohit.Speaking after India's recent T20I series win over New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, Jaffer said during an interaction on Pakistan cricket coach Basit Ali's official Youtube channel, “Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were rested seeing the bigger picture, with the Tests against Australia coming up. India can qualify for the WTC final. And rightly so." "(However) Looking at the future, this game is for youngsters. I actually don't see Rohit Sharma playing in the next T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli may play, but Rohit Sharma definitely won't play the next edition. He's already 35. So, looking at the bigger picture, it's important that they are mentally fresh for the Australia series," Jaffer further added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-dont-know-him-pak-pacer-recalls-dhonis-words-to-kohli-during-heated-exchange-in-2015-odi-wc-558499">'You don't know him': PAK pacer recalls Dhoni's words to Kohli during heated exchange in 2015 ODI WC</a></strong></p>

<p>With no Kohli and Rohit in India's T20I setup, India have been led by Hardik Pandya in the shortest format following the 2022 T20 WC in Australia. Under Hardik, India have defeated New Zealand (home and away) and Sri Lanka (home).While he has not been named as the official T20I captain, Hardik is being touted to take over from Rohit and an official announcement can be made later this year.</p>

<p>For now, Rohit, Kohli and other senior players have shifted their focus to the longer formats. The duo will be seen in action in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India will lock horns with Australia with the seris opener starting on February 09.</p>


Ever since India lost the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals, versus eventual winners England, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I squad. While nothing official has been announced regarding Rohit and Kohli's T20I future, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer recently shared a bold prediction with regard to the two stalwarts of Indian cricket.

Ever since India lost the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals, versus eventual winners England, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I squad. While nothing official has been announced regarding Rohit and Kohli's T20I future, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer recently shared a bold prediction with regard to the two stalwarts of Indian cricket. Jaffer believes that the 34-year-old Kohli might still have a chance to play in the 2024 T20 World Cup, but insisted that doors for a comeback are more or less closed for Rohit.Speaking after India's recent T20I series win over New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, Jaffer said during an interaction on Pakistan cricket coach Basit Ali's official Youtube channel, “Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were rested seeing the bigger picture, with the Tests against Australia coming up. India can qualify for the WTC final. And rightly so." "(However) Looking at the future, this game is for youngsters. I actually don't see Rohit Sharma playing in the next T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli may play, but Rohit Sharma definitely won't play the next edition. He's already 35. So, looking at the bigger picture, it's important that they are mentally fresh for the Australia series," Jaffer further added. Also read: 'You don't know him': PAK pacer recalls Dhoni's words to Kohli during heated exchange in 2015 ODI WC With no Kohli and Rohit in India's T20I setup, India have been led by Hardik Pandya in the shortest format following the 2022 T20 WC in Australia. Under Hardik, India have defeated New Zealand (home and away) and Sri Lanka (home).While he has not been named as the official T20I captain, Hardik is being touted to take over from Rohit and an official announcement can be made later this year. For now, Rohit, Kohli and other senior players have shifted their focus to the longer formats. The duo will be seen in action in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India will lock horns with Australia with the seris opener starting on February 09.

Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener

<p>India and New Zealand locked horns in the three-match T20I series decider on Wednesday (February 01), in Ahmedabad, with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first, India rode on in-form opener Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes, to post a mammoth 234 for 4 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a humongous 168-run margin at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Gill slammed his maiden ton in the format. In addition, he registered the highest individual score by an Indian batter in T20Is, surpassing Virat Kohli's 122*. He became the seventh Indian batter to score a T20I hundred and became the fifth among his countrymen to log a ton in all forms of the game.</p>

<p>After his Ahmedabad heroics, Kohli -- who will next be seen in action during the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia on home soil -- took to his official Instagram account to laud Gill. On his Instagram story, the 34-year-old shared Gill's picture and wrote, "Sitara (Star). The future is here."</p>

<p><img alt="Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b22ded4c-7e7b-4177-abb3-78810d1e9bcd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohli%20lauds%20Gill.JPG" /></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gills-record-breaking-hundred-takes-india-to-168-run-win-over-nz-clinch-t20i-series-2-1-558026">Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1</a></strong></p>

<p>Gill stitched an entertaining 80-run second-wicket stand with Rahul Tripathi, who set the platform for his side courtesy his 22-ball 44. He was well supported by Suryakumar Yadav (13-ball 24) and captain Hardik Pandya (17-ball 30) as India piled up a mammoth total and defended it with ease, with Hardik leading the charge (with 4 for 16) along with two-fers from Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Mavi and Umran Malik each.</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, centurion Gill said, "It feels good when you practice and it pays off. I was backing myself to score big. Didn't happen in the Sri Lanka series, but happy to see it work out now. Everybody has a different technique to hit sixes. Hardik bhai told me to play my game, not do anything extra and he kept backing me. When you represent your country, there is no fatigue. It was my dream to play for India, and I am very fortunate to be part of the team in all three formats."</p>


India and New Zealand locked horns in the three-match T20I series decider on Wednesday (February 01), in Ahmedabad, with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first, India rode on in-form opener Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes, to post a mammoth 234 for 4 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 66 in 12.

India and New Zealand locked horns in the three-match T20I series decider on Wednesday (February 01), in Ahmedabad, with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first, India rode on in-form opener Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes, to post a mammoth 234 for 4 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a humongous 168-run margin at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Gill slammed his maiden ton in the format. In addition, he registered the highest individual score by an Indian batter in T20Is, surpassing Virat Kohli's 122*. He became the seventh Indian batter to score a T20I hundred and became the fifth among his countrymen to log a ton in all forms of the game. After his Ahmedabad heroics, Kohli -- who will next be seen in action during the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia on home soil -- took to his official Instagram account to laud Gill. On his Instagram story, the 34-year-old shared Gill's picture and wrote, "Sitara (Star). The future is here." Also read: Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1 Gill stitched an entertaining 80-run second-wicket stand with Rahul Tripathi, who set the platform for his side courtesy his 22-ball 44. He was well supported by Suryakumar Yadav (13-ball 24) and captain Hardik Pandya (17-ball 30) as India piled up a mammoth total and defended it with ease, with Hardik leading the charge (with 4 for 16) along with two-fers from Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Mavi and Umran Malik each. At the post-match presentation, centurion Gill said, "It feels good when you practice and it pays off. I was backing myself to score big. Didn't happen in the Sri Lanka series, but happy to see it work out now. Everybody has a different technique to hit sixes. Hardik bhai told me to play my game, not do anything extra and he kept backing me. When you represent your country, there is no fatigue. It was my dream to play for India, and I am very fortunate to be part of the team in all three formats."

'The future is here': Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill after his 3rd T20I heroics vs New Zealand

<p>The power couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are apparently on a short pilgrimage to the Uttarakhand town of Rishikesh which is holy for Hindus. The pictures of the power couple at the Swami Dayanand Giri's Ashram (ashram means hermitage or monastery) went viral on social media sites. Their little daughter Vamika, who usually accompanies them, was not seen this time. You can see the photos below.</p>

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<p>Rishikesh is ensconced in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is a major destination for religious Hindus due to the presence of the Ganges, which traverses the town. As per reports, Kohli and Sharma were last seen in Vrindavan, another holy town in the state of Uttar Pradesh. While in the town, they reportedly spent time at the ashram of Neem Karoli Baba.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/watch-video-anushka-sharma-virat-kohli-seek-blessings-in-vrindavan-549953">Watch video: Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli seek blessings in Vrindavan</a></strong></p>

<p>While Anushka is an actress and producer and has been a part of several acclaimed films and has bankrolled many projects, Virat is a star cricketer who represents India on the international stage.</p>

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<p>They have been married since 2017. Since the two are stars of their respective fields, the wedding event was a huge, widely-covered affair. They tied the knot in Italy in an intimate ceremony and only family members and close friends were invited. The couple welcomed Vamika in 2021.</p>

<p>Kohli will soon join the Indian Cricket Team as it takes on Australia in the Border–Gavaskar Trophy test match series that begins next month. Meanwhile, Anushka will soon be seen in the role of iconic Indian female cricketer Jhulan Goswami in the Prosit Roy-directed biopic Chakda 'Xpress.&nbsp;</p>

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The power couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are apparently on a short pilgrimage to the Uttarakhand town of Rishikesh which is holy for Hindus. The pictures of the power couple at the Swami Dayanand Giri's Ashram (ashram means hermitage or monastery) went viral on social media sites.

The power couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are apparently on a short pilgrimage to the Uttarakhand town of Rishikesh which is holy for Hindus. The pictures of the power couple at the Swami Dayanand Giri's Ashram (ashram means hermitage or monastery) went viral on social media sites. Their little daughter Vamika, who usually accompanies them, was not seen this time. You can see the photos below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmy Kahaniya (@filmykahaniya) Rishikesh is ensconced in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is a major destination for religious Hindus due to the presence of the Ganges, which traverses the town. As per reports, Kohli and Sharma were last seen in Vrindavan, another holy town in the state of Uttar Pradesh. While in the town, they reportedly spent time at the ashram of Neem Karoli Baba. Also Read: Watch video: Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli seek blessings in Vrindavan While Anushka is an actress and producer and has been a part of several acclaimed films and has bankrolled many projects, Virat is a star cricketer who represents India on the international stage. They have been married since 2017. Since the two are stars of their respective fields, the wedding event was a huge, widely-covered affair. They tied the knot in Italy in an intimate ceremony and only family members and close friends were invited. The couple welcomed Vamika in 2021. Kohli will soon join the Indian Cricket Team as it takes on Australia in the Border–Gavaskar Trophy test match series that begins next month. Meanwhile, Anushka will soon be seen in the role of iconic Indian female cricketer Jhulan Goswami in the Prosit Roy-directed biopic Chakda 'Xpress. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli on religious pilgrimage, visit Rishikesh ashram. See photos

<p>Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has urged the die-hard cricket fans in the country to remain patient with senior star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in regards to them winning an ICC trophy for India – something that has been missing in their&nbsp;cabinet since 2013 when they last won the Champions Trophy. As the 2023 50-over World Cup is set to be hosted in India, all eyes will be on the Men in Blue to end their trophy-less drought. For them to achieve this feat, both Virat and Rohit along with everyone will need to step up and deliver on the big stage.</p>

<p>Being aware of India’s cricketing culture, Ashwin, who alongside Kohli won the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, said just because someone (Dhoni here) came and conquered all ICC trophies in his first attempts doesn’t mean this is going to happen every time. India, under Rohit, has found remarkable success but couldn’t win the T20 World Cup in Australia last year, leaving the fans disappointed again.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-missing-out-on-india-tests-will-probably-nag-me-for-rest-of-my-life-says-glenn-maxwell-556947">IND vs AUS: Missing out on India Tests will probably 'nag me for rest of my life,' says Glenn Maxwell</a></p>

<p>Citing the example of great Sachin Tendulkar, who in his sixth attempt lifted the coveted World Cup trophy, Ashwin urged the fans to keep having faith in the stalwart duo as they have it in them to make it happen this time.</p>

<p>Expressing his views on his YouTube channel, Ravi Ashwin said, "It is easier to say you haven't won this, that and so on. But after the 1983 World Cup, the great Sachin Tendulkar played the 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cups. But he finally won the World Cup in 2011 only. He had to wait for 6 World Cups to finally win one. That was the situation for a stalwart of Indian cricket. Just because another stalwart in MS Dhoni came and won a World Cup as soon as he took charge, that doesn't mean it will happen for everyone, right?"</p>

<p>Replying to the section of fans who often come up with this argument&nbsp;that Virat hasn’t won an ICC tournament for India despite remaining on the top of his game for years now, Ashwin reminded them that both Virat and Rohit have ICC trophies to their name; and that, this time also, they would be hoping for things to fall in their favour.</p>

<p>"These players (Virat and Rohit) didn't play in 2007 as well. Rohit Sharma missed out on the 2011 World Cup. Only Virat Kohli played in 2011, 2015 and 2019, and this 2023 World Cup will be his fourth. But people say he hasn't won an ICC tournament. He (Virat) has won ICC tournaments in 2011, and in 2013 when he won the Champions Trophy. Rohit Sharma has also won the Champions Trophy. So, we can give them the space, guys. They are playing bilateral series, IPL and so many other matches. But when it comes to ICC tournaments, you need those crucial moments to go your way," Ashwin added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India is currently involved in the white-ball series against New Zealand and then will take on Australia before the Indian players march into playing the IPL that begins in March end. Before the 50-over World Cup this year, India will be playing the Asia Cup and most likely the ICC Test Championship final too.</p>


Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has urged the die-hard cricket fans in the country to remain patient with senior star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in regards to them winning an ICC trophy for India – something that has been missing in their cabinet since 2013 when they last won the Champions Trophy.

Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has urged the die-hard cricket fans in the country to remain patient with senior star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in regards to them winning an ICC trophy for India – something that has been missing in their cabinet since 2013 when they last won the Champions Trophy. As the 2023 50-over World Cup is set to be hosted in India, all eyes will be on the Men in Blue to end their trophy-less drought. For them to achieve this feat, both Virat and Rohit along with everyone will need to step up and deliver on the big stage. Being aware of India’s cricketing culture, Ashwin, who alongside Kohli won the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, said just because someone (Dhoni here) came and conquered all ICC trophies in his first attempts doesn’t mean this is going to happen every time. India, under Rohit, has found remarkable success but couldn’t win the T20 World Cup in Australia last year, leaving the fans disappointed again. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Missing out on India Tests will probably 'nag me for rest of my life,' says Glenn Maxwell Citing the example of great Sachin Tendulkar, who in his sixth attempt lifted the coveted World Cup trophy, Ashwin urged the fans to keep having faith in the stalwart duo as they have it in them to make it happen this time. Expressing his views on his YouTube channel, Ravi Ashwin said, "It is easier to say you haven't won this, that and so on. But after the 1983 World Cup, the great Sachin Tendulkar played the 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cups. But he finally won the World Cup in 2011 only. He had to wait for 6 World Cups to finally win one. That was the situation for a stalwart of Indian cricket. Just because another stalwart in MS Dhoni came and won a World Cup as soon as he took charge, that doesn't mean it will happen for everyone, right?" Replying to the section of fans who often come up with this argument that Virat hasn’t won an ICC tournament for India despite remaining on the top of his game for years now, Ashwin reminded them that both Virat and Rohit have ICC trophies to their name; and that, this time also, they would be hoping for things to fall in their favour. "These players (Virat and Rohit) didn't play in 2007 as well. Rohit Sharma missed out on the 2011 World Cup. Only Virat Kohli played in 2011, 2015 and 2019, and this 2023 World Cup will be his fourth. But people say he hasn't won an ICC tournament. He (Virat) has won ICC tournaments in 2011, and in 2013 when he won the Champions Trophy. Rohit Sharma has also won the Champions Trophy. So, we can give them the space, guys. They are playing bilateral series, IPL and so many other matches. But when it comes to ICC tournaments, you need those crucial moments to go your way," Ashwin added. Meanwhile, India is currently involved in the white-ball series against New Zealand and then will take on Australia before the Indian players march into playing the IPL that begins in March end. Before the 50-over World Cup this year, India will be playing the Asia Cup and most likely the ICC Test Championship final too.

Ravi Ashwin urges fans to remain patient with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma with 2023 World Cup in sight

<p>Having lost the Border-Gavaskar series twice in a row now in 2018 and 2020, that too at home, Australia fear&nbsp;losing it for the third straight time as they prepare to take on India in the four-match Test series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Marcus Stoinis, one of Australia’s mainstays in white-ball cricket, said the Oz wouldn’t want to suffer the same fate this time, adding they are confident of breaking the ice of defeating India in India in a Test series with the squad they have. Speaking to ANI ahead of the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, Stoinis said, "We don't want to lose our trophy this time even though our team never wants to lose it as it could be the third time but we don't want to give up this year.”</p>

<p>Agreeing to the fact that facing India in their home conditions is never easy given how well their ace spinners – Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja fare in those conditions, Stoinis opined the turners in their ranks are world class too and are capable of giving a tough time to the Indian batters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-eng-sisanda-magalas-game-changing-spell-gave-us-momentum-says-bavuma-after-1st-odi-win-556723">SA vs ENG: Sisanda Magala's game-changing spell gave us momentum, says Bavuma after 1st ODI win</a></p>

<p>“Our squad is too strong and facing India on their soil is a bit difficult as we have to play on spin tracks over there. India have some specialist bowlers like Ashwin and Jadeja. They can really bowl well but we are also coming with some specialist spinners, so you can expect a good competition this time,” Stoinis said.</p>

<p>Speaking highly of Virat Kohli, with whom he has played some cricket over the years, the all-rounder said he (Virat) will be the biggest threat to the Aussies as he thrives to do well against better oppositions. Considering Kohli’s pathbreaking record against the Aussies across formats, the right-handed batter could be a thorn in the flesh for the visitors.</p>

<p>However, one player whom Stoinis think would have really made a difference was former his Delhi Capitals teammate, Rishabh Pant - who is currently getting treated after suffering a road accident in December last year. Stoinis even wished the Indian keeper-batter a speedy recovery.</p>

<p>"Kohli is a world-class batsman and has returned to form and he is one of the best Test batters, so he could be the biggest threat once again for us. But one player who will be missed this season badly is Rishabh Pant. He is unfortunately not with the team. I wish he recovers soon and comes back to the field,” the all-rounder said.</p>

<p>The Australian team is expected to land in India a week before the start of the first Test.</p>


Having lost the Border-Gavaskar series twice in a row now in 2018 and 2020, that too at home, Australia fear losing it for the third straight time as they prepare to take on India in the four-match Test series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

Having lost the Border-Gavaskar series twice in a row now in 2018 and 2020, that too at home, Australia fear losing it for the third straight time as they prepare to take on India in the four-match Test series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Marcus Stoinis, one of Australia’s mainstays in white-ball cricket, said the Oz wouldn’t want to suffer the same fate this time, adding they are confident of breaking the ice of defeating India in India in a Test series with the squad they have. Speaking to ANI ahead of the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, Stoinis said, "We don't want to lose our trophy this time even though our team never wants to lose it as it could be the third time but we don't want to give up this year.” Agreeing to the fact that facing India in their home conditions is never easy given how well their ace spinners – Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja fare in those conditions, Stoinis opined the turners in their ranks are world class too and are capable of giving a tough time to the Indian batters. ALSO READ: SA vs ENG: Sisanda Magala's game-changing spell gave us momentum, says Bavuma after 1st ODI win “Our squad is too strong and facing India on their soil is a bit difficult as we have to play on spin tracks over there. India have some specialist bowlers like Ashwin and Jadeja. They can really bowl well but we are also coming with some specialist spinners, so you can expect a good competition this time,” Stoinis said. Speaking highly of Virat Kohli, with whom he has played some cricket over the years, the all-rounder said he (Virat) will be the biggest threat to the Aussies as he thrives to do well against better oppositions. Considering Kohli’s pathbreaking record against the Aussies across formats, the right-handed batter could be a thorn in the flesh for the visitors. However, one player whom Stoinis think would have really made a difference was former his Delhi Capitals teammate, Rishabh Pant - who is currently getting treated after suffering a road accident in December last year. Stoinis even wished the Indian keeper-batter a speedy recovery. "Kohli is a world-class batsman and has returned to form and he is one of the best Test batters, so he could be the biggest threat once again for us. But one player who will be missed this season badly is Rishabh Pant. He is unfortunately not with the team. I wish he recovers soon and comes back to the field,” the all-rounder said. The Australian team is expected to land in India a week before the start of the first Test.

IND vs AUS 2023: 'We don't want to lose the Border-Gavaskar series again..', says Marcus Stoinis

<p>Indian team’s head coach Rahul Dravid said the management is prioritising certain tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar series and World Test Championship while managing the workload of seniors like&nbsp;Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. In this cricket-heavy calendar, Dravid stressed on picking right players for particular series as they don’t want pile of injured players just before the start of any important tournament. Speaking to the media ahead of the final ODI against New Zealand in Indore, the former captain addressed this issue.</p>

<p>“We need to give certain priorities to certain white-ball tournaments due to the amount of cricket that we’re playing. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the World Test Championship are very important for us. There are certain white-ball tournaments that we have to prioritize,” said Dravid.</p>

<p>The former India captain&nbsp;also said rest to Rohit and Kohli following the ODI series was the need of the hour as the management wants them to turn up fresh ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-3rd-odi-live-streaming-for-free-how-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-3rd-odi-live-for-free-in-india-555169">IND vs NZ 3rd ODI Live streaming for free: how to Watch India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI live for free in India</a></p>

<p>“The priority after the T20 World Cup has been these six games and Virat has played all these six games. He will get a break, along with Rohit and a few other guys in the next week so that they come refreshed on the 2nd for a good one week camp before we play Australia. So we just have to prioritize certain formats,” the head coach added.</p>

<p>Sharing his thoughts on having outright wicketkeepers in the squad nowadays, Rahul said the time has gone when keepers were picked on their singular ability; now for any keeper to get picked in the squad, he must be a very good batter first. Adding India’s pool depth gives them this leverage of having multiple keeper-batters across formats Dravid had some encouraging words for the newly-picked Jitesh Sharma as well.</p>

<p>“The days of a specialist wicket-keeper are gone unfortunately. We’re lucky that all the guys in contention have done well as batters. Be it Ishan Kishan or KS Bharath or KL Rahul, unfortunately Rishabh Pant is injured. But all these guys are wicket-keeping batters, and in this day you have to contribute with the bat significantly. Even Jitesh Sharma in the T20 format, he has the ability to bat at a very good pace as he’s shown in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the IPL,” said Dravid.</p>

<p>After the ODI series, India and New Zealand will face off in the three-match T20Is.</p>


Indian team’s head coach Rahul Dravid said the management is prioritising certain tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar series and World Test Championship while managing the workload of seniors like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Indian team’s head coach Rahul Dravid said the management is prioritising certain tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar series and World Test Championship while managing the workload of seniors like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. In this cricket-heavy calendar, Dravid stressed on picking right players for particular series as they don’t want pile of injured players just before the start of any important tournament. Speaking to the media ahead of the final ODI against New Zealand in Indore, the former captain addressed this issue. “We need to give certain priorities to certain white-ball tournaments due to the amount of cricket that we’re playing. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the World Test Championship are very important for us. There are certain white-ball tournaments that we have to prioritize,” said Dravid. The former India captain also said rest to Rohit and Kohli following the ODI series was the need of the hour as the management wants them to turn up fresh ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ 3rd ODI Live streaming for free: how to Watch India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI live for free in India “The priority after the T20 World Cup has been these six games and Virat has played all these six games. He will get a break, along with Rohit and a few other guys in the next week so that they come refreshed on the 2nd for a good one week camp before we play Australia. So we just have to prioritize certain formats,” the head coach added. Sharing his thoughts on having outright wicketkeepers in the squad nowadays, Rahul said the time has gone when keepers were picked on their singular ability; now for any keeper to get picked in the squad, he must be a very good batter first. Adding India’s pool depth gives them this leverage of having multiple keeper-batters across formats Dravid had some encouraging words for the newly-picked Jitesh Sharma as well. “The days of a specialist wicket-keeper are gone unfortunately. We’re lucky that all the guys in contention have done well as batters. Be it Ishan Kishan or KS Bharath or KL Rahul, unfortunately Rishabh Pant is injured. But all these guys are wicket-keeping batters, and in this day you have to contribute with the bat significantly. Even Jitesh Sharma in the T20 format, he has the ability to bat at a very good pace as he’s shown in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the IPL,” said Dravid. After the ODI series, India and New Zealand will face off in the three-match T20Is.

Rahul Dravid on managing workload of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma - 'We have to priortise certain tournaments'

<p>The ICC announced Men’s and Women’s T20I teams of the year 2022 on Monday and India’s stalwart Virat Kohli alongside Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya are named in the XI. T20 World Cup-winning captain England’s Jos Buttler is to lead the side while Pakistan’s star keeper-batter Mohammed Rizwan is also picked. New Zealand’s Glenn Philips made the list too, whereas, Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza, who had a breakthrough 2022, is also listed. The chosen XI has two wicketkeepers, as many batters, four all-rounders and two pacers. Ireland’s left-arm seamer Joshua Little is a surprise entrant in the XI as well.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli, who returned to form with his maiden hundred in T20Is against Afghanistan during the Asia Cup in September, scored a match-winning unbeaten 82 against Pakistan in India’s opening encounter during the T20 World Cup in Australia. He followed that up with fifties against the Netherlands and Bangladesh in group stages as well. With another half-century against England in the semis, Kohli ended up with 296 runs in six games at an average of 98.67.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistani-great-says-umran-malik-not-as-fit-and-trained-as-haris-rauf-555141">Former Pakistani great says Umran Malik 'not as fit and trained' as Haris Rauf</a></p>

<p>Piling up 1164 runs in this format playing for India in 2022, star batter Suryakumar Yadav had a stunning last year as well. In addition to this, he also became the ranked number one batter in this format. His performance in the T20 World Cup had everyone talking&nbsp;as he was the third-highest run-scorer with 239 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 189.68.</p>

<p>"SKY displayed his majestic prowess at the T20 World Cup as well, scoring 239 runs while going at a strike rate of 189.68. He finished the year as the No.1 batter in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings," read the statement on ICC's website.</p>

<p><strong>Here is ICC’s Men’s T20I team of the Year 2022 –</strong></p>

<p>Jos Buttler (c, wk) (England), Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan), Virat Kohli (India), Suryakumar Yadav (India), Glenn Phillips (New Zealand), Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe), Hardik Pandya (India), Sam Curran (England), Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka), Haris Rauf (Pakistan), Josh Little (Ireland).</p>


The ICC announced Men’s and Women’s T20I teams of the year 2022 on Monday and India’s stalwart Virat Kohli alongside Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya are named in the XI.

The ICC announced Men’s and Women’s T20I teams of the year 2022 on Monday and India’s stalwart Virat Kohli alongside Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya are named in the XI. T20 World Cup-winning captain England’s Jos Buttler is to lead the side while Pakistan’s star keeper-batter Mohammed Rizwan is also picked. New Zealand’s Glenn Philips made the list too, whereas, Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza, who had a breakthrough 2022, is also listed. The chosen XI has two wicketkeepers, as many batters, four all-rounders and two pacers. Ireland’s left-arm seamer Joshua Little is a surprise entrant in the XI as well. Virat Kohli, who returned to form with his maiden hundred in T20Is against Afghanistan during the Asia Cup in September, scored a match-winning unbeaten 82 against Pakistan in India’s opening encounter during the T20 World Cup in Australia. He followed that up with fifties against the Netherlands and Bangladesh in group stages as well. With another half-century against England in the semis, Kohli ended up with 296 runs in six games at an average of 98.67. ALSO READ: Former Pakistani great says Umran Malik 'not as fit and trained' as Haris Rauf Piling up 1164 runs in this format playing for India in 2022, star batter Suryakumar Yadav had a stunning last year as well. In addition to this, he also became the ranked number one batter in this format. His performance in the T20 World Cup had everyone talking as he was the third-highest run-scorer with 239 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 189.68. "SKY displayed his majestic prowess at the T20 World Cup as well, scoring 239 runs while going at a strike rate of 189.68. He finished the year as the No.1 batter in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings," read the statement on ICC's website. Here is ICC’s Men’s T20I team of the Year 2022 – Jos Buttler (c, wk) (England), Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan), Virat Kohli (India), Suryakumar Yadav (India), Glenn Phillips (New Zealand), Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe), Hardik Pandya (India), Sam Curran (England), Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka), Haris Rauf (Pakistan), Josh Little (Ireland).

India's Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav named in ICC Men's T20I Team of 2022; Jos Buttler to lead

<p>Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli. Not only both have scored enormous amount of runs across formats, Sachin and Virat have more than 170 international centuries between&nbsp;them. Above all, both these stalwarts of cricket piled up all of this against some of the best bowlers the game has seen. Reigniting a debate on who is better among the two, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins had a chat over with Pat naming his pick.</p>

<p>During a teaser episode of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Test’ series released on the YouTube, Usman Khawaja and Test captain Pat Cummins were seen have a discussion where Usman happened to ask Pat to pick between Virat and Sachin, and Cummins chose Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-always-preferred-playing-matches-over-practice-says-mohammed-shami-on-managing-workload-554858">'I have always preferred playing matches over practice', says Mohammed Shami on managing workload</a></p>

<p>Explaining why he picked Kohli, Pat said only because he played against Sachin just once&nbsp;that too during a T20 game many years back, he just had to go for Kohli – against whom he has come across many a times in this career.</p>

<p>"I think I have played Sachin only once in a T20 years ago. So, I will say Virat," Cummins explained why he picked Virat over Sachin.</p>

<p>On the other hand, when he asked Khawaja to rank India’s original Fab Four in the order – which includes Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the left-handed batter went ahead with Sachin, then Dravid, Ganguly and in the end Laxman.</p>

<p>"I would go Tendulkar, one. Dravid, the wall, two. Three, Dada. Ganguly. Unfortunately, this hurts for me to say for Laxman too, I love watching Laxman bat, but lefties first," said Khawaja.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, both India and Australia will face off in the Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India currently holds the trophy as they defeated the Aussies away 2-1 in 2021.</p>


Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli. Not only both have scored enormous amount of runs across formats, Sachin and Virat have more than 170 international centuries between them. Above all, both these stalwarts of cricket piled up all of this against some of the best bowlers the game has seen. Reigniting a debate on who is better among the two, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins had a chat over with Pat naming his pick. During a teaser episode of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Test’ series released on the YouTube, Usman Khawaja and Test captain Pat Cummins were seen have a discussion where Usman happened to ask Pat to pick between Virat and Sachin, and Cummins chose Kohli. ALSO READ: 'I have always preferred playing matches over practice', says Mohammed Shami on managing workload Explaining why he picked Kohli, Pat said only because he played against Sachin just once that too during a T20 game many years back, he just had to go for Kohli – against whom he has come across many a times in this career. "I think I have played Sachin only once in a T20 years ago. So, I will say Virat," Cummins explained why he picked Virat over Sachin. On the other hand, when he asked Khawaja to rank India’s original Fab Four in the order – which includes Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the left-handed batter went ahead with Sachin, then Dravid, Ganguly and in the end Laxman. "I would go Tendulkar, one. Dravid, the wall, two. Three, Dada. Ganguly. Unfortunately, this hurts for me to say for Laxman too, I love watching Laxman bat, but lefties first," said Khawaja. Meanwhile, both India and Australia will face off in the Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India currently holds the trophy as they defeated the Aussies away 2-1 in 2021.

Virat Kohli or Sachin Tendulkar? Australian Test captain Pat Cummins gives his take

<p>Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill slammed stunning centuries as India registered a thumping 317-run victory against Sri Lanka on Sunday (January 15). The Men in Blue recorded the highest-ever victory margin in a one-day international (ODI) as they won the series 3-0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India opted to bat first in the dead rubber and posted a massive 390-5 score. Kohli smashed an unbeaten 166 and Gill 116 (97) in Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While defending, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj returned impressive figures of 4-32 as India bowled out the tourists for 72 in 22 overs. While doing so, India went past New Zealand's 290-run thrashing of Ireland in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A record-breaking win for India to complete a series whitewash 🔥<br />
<br />
Details 👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a><a href="https://t.co/GXxi9yOCZ6">https://t.co/GXxi9yOCZ6</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1614632996534996995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Domination 👊<br />
<br />
India complete a 3-0 whitewash against Sri Lanka in the ODI series 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> | 📝: <a href="https://t.co/rqPHqsDqAY">https://t.co/rqPHqsDqAY</a> <a href="https://t.co/kR17ai4LOC">pic.twitter.com/kR17ai4LOC</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1614628463641591809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian skipper praised "rare talent" Siraj and said that it was "good to see how he (Siraj) was bowling and he deserved all those slips".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit said, "The way he has come up over the last few years is good to see. He has come from strength to strength and that's really good for Indian cricket."&nbsp;</p>

<p>For his stunning 46th ODI century, Kohli won the Man of the Match award. He reached his 150 in 106 balls and finished off with 13 fours and eight sixes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli surpassed Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawardene's 12,650 ODI runs to enter the top five all-time run-getters. He is now three centuries behind Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of 49.&nbsp;</p>

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Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill slammed stunning centuries as India registered a thumping 317-run victory against Sri Lanka on Sunday (January 15). The Men in Blue recorded the highest-ever victory margin in a one-day international (ODI) as they won the series 3-0.

Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill slammed stunning centuries as India registered a thumping 317-run victory against Sri Lanka on Sunday (January 15). The Men in Blue recorded the highest-ever victory margin in a one-day international (ODI) as they won the series 3-0. India opted to bat first in the dead rubber and posted a massive 390-5 score. Kohli smashed an unbeaten 166 and Gill 116 (97) in Thiruvananthapuram. While defending, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj returned impressive figures of 4-32 as India bowled out the tourists for 72 in 22 overs. While doing so, India went past New Zealand's 290-run thrashing of Ireland in 2008. A record-breaking win for India to complete a series whitewash 🔥 Details 👇#INDvSLhttps://t.co/GXxi9yOCZ6 — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2023 × Domination 👊 India complete a 3-0 whitewash against Sri Lanka in the ODI series 👏#INDvSL | 📝: https://t.co/rqPHqsDqAY pic.twitter.com/kR17ai4LOC — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2023 × The Indian skipper praised "rare talent" Siraj and said that it was "good to see how he (Siraj) was bowling and he deserved all those slips". Rohit said, "The way he has come up over the last few years is good to see. He has come from strength to strength and that's really good for Indian cricket." For his stunning 46th ODI century, Kohli won the Man of the Match award. He reached his 150 in 106 balls and finished off with 13 fours and eight sixes. Kohli surpassed Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawardene's 12,650 ODI runs to enter the top five all-time run-getters. He is now three centuries behind Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of 49. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virat Kohli shines as India beat Sri Lanka by highest ever ODI margin of 317 runs

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<p>In 2016, India's future skipper Virat Kohli was evidently very eager to take on the role of One Day International (ODI) team captain but was given a pep talk by then-head coach Ravi Shastri. As per the book written by India's former fielding coach R Sridhar, named "Coaching Beyond: My Days With Indian Cricket Team," Kohli was told in no uncertain terms by Shastri that he had to wait until MS Dhoni, the then captain, finished his tenure. A year prior, it was Dhoni who had relinquished the Test captaincy and passed it on to Kohli.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat Kohli- Ravi Shastri conversation revealed by book</strong></h2>

<p>Sridhar recollected an incident from Kohli's early days when he was already leading the Test squad but was the captain-in-waiting as far as the white ball squad was concerned. Sridhar wrote, “There was a point in 2016 when Virat was extremely excited to become the captain of the white-ball team as well. He said a few things that showed he was seeking the captaincy. One evening, Ravi called him and said, ‘Look, Virat, MS gave it (the captaincy) to you in red-ball cricket. You have to respect him. He will give it to you in limited-overs cricket, too, when the time is right. Unless you respect him now, tomorrow when you are the captain, you won’t get the respect from your team’."</p>

<h2><strong>Ravi Shastri’s message that served Kohli well</strong></h2>

<p>Sridhar stated that Shastri, in no uncertain terms, told Kohli to wait until Dhoni handed over the captaincy in limited-overs cricket. Shastri told Kohli, "Respect him (Dhoni) now, regardless of what is happening. It will come to you, you don’t have to chase after it."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-furious-after-invasion-of-privacy-in-hotel-room-says-i-am-not-okay-with-this-kind-of-fanaticism-529775">Virat Kohli furious after invasion of privacy in hotel room, says 'I am not okay with this kind of fanaticism'</a></strong></p>

<p>As per Sridhar, Kohli took the advice to heart and eventually, in a year's time, he got the white-ball captaincy too. Sridhar also wrote that Shastri was a "fabulous communicator who speaks his mind and doesn’t beat around the bush," and that he did the dirty job of informing players when they were dropped. It's worth mentioning that Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni shared a great camaraderie and the latter had revealed to the press how Kohli was the only cricketer to have wished him well after he stepped down from the position of Test captaincy.</p>

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In 2016, India's future skipper Virat Kohli was evidently very eager to take on the role of One Day International (ODI) team captain but was given a pep talk by then-head coach Ravi Shastri.

In 2016, India's future skipper Virat Kohli was evidently very eager to take on the role of One Day International (ODI) team captain but was given a pep talk by then-head coach Ravi Shastri. As per the book written by India's former fielding coach R Sridhar, named "Coaching Beyond: My Days With Indian Cricket Team," Kohli was told in no uncertain terms by Shastri that he had to wait until MS Dhoni, the then captain, finished his tenure. A year prior, it was Dhoni who had relinquished the Test captaincy and passed it on to Kohli. Virat Kohli- Ravi Shastri conversation revealed by book Sridhar recollected an incident from Kohli's early days when he was already leading the Test squad but was the captain-in-waiting as far as the white ball squad was concerned. Sridhar wrote, “There was a point in 2016 when Virat was extremely excited to become the captain of the white-ball team as well. He said a few things that showed he was seeking the captaincy. One evening, Ravi called him and said, ‘Look, Virat, MS gave it (the captaincy) to you in red-ball cricket. You have to respect him. He will give it to you in limited-overs cricket, too, when the time is right. Unless you respect him now, tomorrow when you are the captain, you won’t get the respect from your team’." Ravi Shastri’s message that served Kohli well Sridhar stated that Shastri, in no uncertain terms, told Kohli to wait until Dhoni handed over the captaincy in limited-overs cricket. Shastri told Kohli, "Respect him (Dhoni) now, regardless of what is happening. It will come to you, you don’t have to chase after it." Also Read | Virat Kohli furious after invasion of privacy in hotel room, says 'I am not okay with this kind of fanaticism' As per Sridhar, Kohli took the advice to heart and eventually, in a year's time, he got the white-ball captaincy too. Sridhar also wrote that Shastri was a "fabulous communicator who speaks his mind and doesn’t beat around the bush," and that he did the dirty job of informing players when they were dropped. It's worth mentioning that Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni shared a great camaraderie and the latter had revealed to the press how Kohli was the only cricketer to have wished him well after he stepped down from the position of Test captaincy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Virat Kohli was DESPERATE for captaincy? New book reveals shocking conversation between Kohli and Ravi Shastri

<p>On Thursday (January 12), Rohit Sharma-led India defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in pursuit of 216 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata to earn an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. After winning the series opener by 67 runs, in Guwahati, India dismissed the Lankans for 215 in 39.4 overs before attaining the target in 43.2&nbsp;overs with four wickets in hand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Md Siraj (3 for 30) and Kuldeep Yadav (3 for 51) were the star performers with the ball, India managed to get past the finish line in the run-chase, after tottering at 86 for 4, courtesy of KL Rahul's gritty 64&nbsp;not out and vital contributions from Rohit, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Kuldeep (10 not out). Meanwhile, Virat Kohli -- who scored his second successive&nbsp;ton during&nbsp;Guwahati ODI -- perished for a nine-ball 4; being cleaned up by Lahiru Kumara.</p>

<p>After Kohli's dismissal, many on social media platforms criticised his ability to bat under pressure. However, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir backed Kohli and said on Star Sports, "Virat Kohli is there because he is Virat Kohli. He has scored tough runs for India whenever needed."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-better-player-than-ponting-as-aussie-legend-has-s-record-in-the-subcontinent-gautam-gambhir-551890">Rohit Sharma better player than Ricky Ponting as Australian has s*** record in subcontinent: Gautam Gambhir</a></strong></p>

<p>At times, Kohli's critics do question his ability to perform under pressure, especially in ICC knockouts, however, he still has done well in many such games (for instance, during the&nbsp;Champions Trophy 2013 and final, 2017 CT semi-final, T20 World Cup 2014 semi-final and final,&nbsp;semis of 2016 and 2022 editions) but failed to get going in CT'17 finale, 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup knockouts and 2021 WTC summit clash. On the other hand, there is no doubting his abilities to score tough runs in bilaterals across formats and bail the team out in crisis. He has done that on innumerable occasions throughout his career.</p>

<p>Kohli will definitely aim for a big score in the third and final ODI, in&nbsp;Thiruvananthapuram, on Sunday (January 15).&nbsp;</p>


On Thursday (January 12), Rohit Sharma-led India defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in pursuit of 216 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata to earn an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

On Thursday (January 12), Rohit Sharma-led India defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in pursuit of 216 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata to earn an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. After winning the series opener by 67 runs, in Guwahati, India dismissed the Lankans for 215 in 39.4 overs before attaining the target in 43.2 overs with four wickets in hand. While Md Siraj (3 for 30) and Kuldeep Yadav (3 for 51) were the star performers with the ball, India managed to get past the finish line in the run-chase, after tottering at 86 for 4, courtesy of KL Rahul's gritty 64 not out and vital contributions from Rohit, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Kuldeep (10 not out). Meanwhile, Virat Kohli -- who scored his second successive ton during Guwahati ODI -- perished for a nine-ball 4; being cleaned up by Lahiru Kumara. After Kohli's dismissal, many on social media platforms criticised his ability to bat under pressure. However, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir backed Kohli and said on Star Sports, "Virat Kohli is there because he is Virat Kohli. He has scored tough runs for India whenever needed." Also read: Rohit Sharma better player than Ricky Ponting as Australian has s*** record in subcontinent: Gautam Gambhir At times, Kohli's critics do question his ability to perform under pressure, especially in ICC knockouts, however, he still has done well in many such games (for instance, during the Champions Trophy 2013 and final, 2017 CT semi-final, T20 World Cup 2014 semi-final and final, semis of 2016 and 2022 editions) but failed to get going in CT'17 finale, 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup knockouts and 2021 WTC summit clash. On the other hand, there is no doubting his abilities to score tough runs in bilaterals across formats and bail the team out in crisis. He has done that on innumerable occasions throughout his career. Kohli will definitely aim for a big score in the third and final ODI, in Thiruvananthapuram, on Sunday (January 15).

'He has scored tough runs whenever needed': Gambhir backs Kohli after poor outing in IND-SL 2nd ODI

<p>In 2022, as many as seven players led India at different times. Following the end of Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure, Rohit Sharma has taken charge of the Indian team across formats but the likes of KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant have led the side on different occasions due to multiple&nbsp;reasons.</p>

<p>However, R Ashwin -- being one of the senior players -- has still never led India in any format. Debuting in international cricket in 2010, the wily off-spinner has represented India in 88 Tests, 113 ODIs and 65 T20Is, been a part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins and remains a key member of the red-ball side -- has also featured in last two T20 World Cups despite largely being out of favour in white-ball formats since mid-2017 -- but never captained India. Thus, the 36-year-old opened up on the same during a recent interaction.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-better-player-than-ponting-as-aussie-legend-has-s-record-in-the-subcontinent-gautam-gambhir-551890">Rohit Sharma better player than Ricky Ponting as Australian has s*** record in subcontinent: Gautam Gambhir</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to The New Indian Express, the star all-rounder Ashwin said, "Once I hang up my boots, I think I'll have an answer for that. But until then my dreams will be open, I'll be looking forward to opportunities."</p>

<p>Ashwin was part of India's 2-0 Test series win over Bangladesh in December 2022. He returned with seven wickets in the two-match series and made a crucial 62-ball 42 not out in India's narrow three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers in the low-scoring second and final match in Dhaka.</p>


In 2022, as many as seven players led India at different times. Following the end of Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure, Rohit Sharma has taken charge of the Indian team across formats but the likes of KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant have led the side on different occasions due to multiple reasons.

In 2022, as many as seven players led India at different times. Following the end of Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure, Rohit Sharma has taken charge of the Indian team across formats but the likes of KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant have led the side on different occasions due to multiple reasons. However, R Ashwin -- being one of the senior players -- has still never led India in any format. Debuting in international cricket in 2010, the wily off-spinner has represented India in 88 Tests, 113 ODIs and 65 T20Is, been a part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins and remains a key member of the red-ball side -- has also featured in last two T20 World Cups despite largely being out of favour in white-ball formats since mid-2017 -- but never captained India. Thus, the 36-year-old opened up on the same during a recent interaction. Also read: Rohit Sharma better player than Ricky Ponting as Australian has s*** record in subcontinent: Gautam Gambhir Speaking to The New Indian Express, the star all-rounder Ashwin said, "Once I hang up my boots, I think I'll have an answer for that. But until then my dreams will be open, I'll be looking forward to opportunities." Ashwin was part of India's 2-0 Test series win over Bangladesh in December 2022. He returned with seven wickets in the two-match series and made a crucial 62-ball 42 not out in India's narrow three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers in the low-scoring second and final match in Dhaka.

'Once I hang up my boots, I'll have...': R Ashwin on not getting a chance to lead Team India

<p>India faced Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati. Being asked to bat first, India rode on captain Rohit Sharma's 83,&nbsp; Shubman Gill's 70 and Virat Kohli's 87-ball 113 to post a mammoth 373 for 7 and later defended the total with Sri Lanka managing 306 for 8 in their full quota of overs. Thus, India kicked off their 2023 ODI World Cup preparations in style with an easy 67-run win as former captain Kohli set the platform with his 45th ton in the format, 73rd overall.</p>

<p>Kohli came out to bat, at No. 3, with India well-placed courtesy an impressive 143-run opening stand between Rohit and Gill. Kohli stitched handy stands with Shreyas Iyer (28) and KL Rahul (39) to slam an impressive ton. His inning was a mixture of finding the boundaries and running hard between wickets but the former skipper wasn't pleased with vice-captain Hardik Pandya turning down a run during their 27-run fifth-wicket stand. The incident took place in the 43rd over when Kohli and Hardik completed a run but the former was keen to sneak in another single. Just then, he looked at Hardik and tried to persuade him but the vice-captain refused and turned down the chance to complete a double. Kohli wasn't impressed with Hardik and gave him a stare. <strong>The video of the incident has now gone viral on social media platforms:</strong></p>

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— Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) <a href="https://twitter.com/KuchNahiUkhada/status/1612809693294120961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serious-pace-umran-malik-breaks-own-record-bowls-fastest-ball-by-an-indian-during-ind-sl-1st-odi-551164">SERIOUS PACE! Umran Malik breaks own record, bowls fastest ball by an Indian during IND-SL 1st ODI</a></strong></p>

<p>Taking about Sri Lanka's run-chase, they kept losing wickets at regular intervals despite some cracking shots from Pathum Nissanka (72)&nbsp;and Dhananjaya de Silva (47). Skipper Dasun Shanaka kept fighting till the end and stitched an unbeaten 100-run ninth-wicket stand with pacer&nbsp;Kasun Rajitha (9 not out) as the Lankans ended on 306 for 8 with Shanaka being unbeaten on 108.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second and penultimate ODI will take place at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Thursday (January 12).&nbsp;</p>


India faced Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati. Being asked to bat first, India rode on captain Rohit Sharma's 83, Shubman Gill's 70 and Virat Kohli's 87-ball 113 to post a mammoth 373 for 7 and later defended the total with Sri Lanka managing 306 for 8 in their full quota of overs.

India faced Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati. Being asked to bat first, India rode on captain Rohit Sharma's 83, Shubman Gill's 70 and Virat Kohli's 87-ball 113 to post a mammoth 373 for 7 and later defended the total with Sri Lanka managing 306 for 8 in their full quota of overs. Thus, India kicked off their 2023 ODI World Cup preparations in style with an easy 67-run win as former captain Kohli set the platform with his 45th ton in the format, 73rd overall. Kohli came out to bat, at No. 3, with India well-placed courtesy an impressive 143-run opening stand between Rohit and Gill. Kohli stitched handy stands with Shreyas Iyer (28) and KL Rahul (39) to slam an impressive ton. His inning was a mixture of finding the boundaries and running hard between wickets but the former skipper wasn't pleased with vice-captain Hardik Pandya turning down a run during their 27-run fifth-wicket stand. The incident took place in the 43rd over when Kohli and Hardik completed a run but the former was keen to sneak in another single. Just then, he looked at Hardik and tried to persuade him but the vice-captain refused and turned down the chance to complete a double. Kohli wasn't impressed with Hardik and gave him a stare. The video of the incident has now gone viral on social media platforms: pic.twitter.com/YaRmCg9xrq — Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) January 10, 2023 × Also read: SERIOUS PACE! Umran Malik breaks own record, bowls fastest ball by an Indian during IND-SL 1st ODI Taking about Sri Lanka's run-chase, they kept losing wickets at regular intervals despite some cracking shots from Pathum Nissanka (72) and Dhananjaya de Silva (47). Skipper Dasun Shanaka kept fighting till the end and stitched an unbeaten 100-run ninth-wicket stand with pacer Kasun Rajitha (9 not out) as the Lankans ended on 306 for 8 with Shanaka being unbeaten on 108. The second and penultimate ODI will take place at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Thursday (January 12).

WATCH: Virat Kohli stares at Hardik Pandya after he turns down second run in 1st ODI vs Sri Lanka

<p>Since India's ten-wicket loss at the hands of eventual winners England in the T20 World Cup semi-finals last year, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul haven't played&nbsp;the shortest format. In the limited matches that India have played following the T20 WC debacle, Hardik Pandya has led the young side as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on rebuilding the side with new faces. Ahead of the India-Sri Lanka ODIs, in Guwahati on Tuesday (January 10), captain Rohit stated that he has not given up on the format just yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Kohli and Rohit have expressed their avaliability for T20Is, it has been reported that the BCCI&nbsp;might ask them to reconsider their future in the format. As reported by the Indian Express, the matter is set to be discussed by the selection panel in the next few days when the committee meets to announce the squads for the New Zealand white-ball series at home.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-rohit-sharma-opens-up-about-his-t20i-future-jasprit-bumrahs-injury-ahead-of-guwahati-odi-550816">IND vs SL: Rohit Sharma opens up about his T20I future, Jasprit Bumrah's injury ahead of Guwahati ODI</a></strong></p>

<p>With 2023 being looked upon as an important year for the senior men's team, with the World Test Championship (WTC) final and ODI World Cup to be held later this year, the Indian senior players have been told to focus on the longer formats. With the need of the hour to assemble a young squad and adopt a more fearless approach in T20Is, the board is keen to rebuild the team under Hardik Pandya and give him enough time before the 2024 T20 World Cup. Hence, a clarity will be needed about the future of Rohit and Kohli in the format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the India-SL first ODI, in Guwahati, skipper Rohit addressed the pre-match press conference and spoke at length about his T20I future. "At the moment I think it was made clear in the past that it's a 50-over World Cup year for us. And for some of the guys, it's not possible to play all formats. If you look at the schedule, there were back-to-back matches, so we decided to just look at some players' workload that we wanted to make sure that they get enough break time and manage them. I definitely fall in that as well. We have three T20Is against New Zealand. We will see what happens after IPL. I have not decided to give up the format," Rohit said ahead of the ODI series opener.</p>


Since India's ten-wicket loss at the hands of eventual winners England in the T20 World Cup semi-finals last year, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul haven't played the shortest format.

Since India's ten-wicket loss at the hands of eventual winners England in the T20 World Cup semi-finals last year, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul haven't played the shortest format. In the limited matches that India have played following the T20 WC debacle, Hardik Pandya has led the young side as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on rebuilding the side with new faces. Ahead of the India-Sri Lanka ODIs, in Guwahati on Tuesday (January 10), captain Rohit stated that he has not given up on the format just yet. As Kohli and Rohit have expressed their avaliability for T20Is, it has been reported that the BCCI might ask them to reconsider their future in the format. As reported by the Indian Express, the matter is set to be discussed by the selection panel in the next few days when the committee meets to announce the squads for the New Zealand white-ball series at home. Also read: IND vs SL: Rohit Sharma opens up about his T20I future, Jasprit Bumrah's injury ahead of Guwahati ODI With 2023 being looked upon as an important year for the senior men's team, with the World Test Championship (WTC) final and ODI World Cup to be held later this year, the Indian senior players have been told to focus on the longer formats. With the need of the hour to assemble a young squad and adopt a more fearless approach in T20Is, the board is keen to rebuild the team under Hardik Pandya and give him enough time before the 2024 T20 World Cup. Hence, a clarity will be needed about the future of Rohit and Kohli in the format. Ahead of the India-SL first ODI, in Guwahati, skipper Rohit addressed the pre-match press conference and spoke at length about his T20I future. "At the moment I think it was made clear in the past that it's a 50-over World Cup year for us. And for some of the guys, it's not possible to play all formats. If you look at the schedule, there were back-to-back matches, so we decided to just look at some players' workload that we wanted to make sure that they get enough break time and manage them. I definitely fall in that as well. We have three T20Is against New Zealand. We will see what happens after IPL. I have not decided to give up the format," Rohit said ahead of the ODI series opener.

End of the road? BCCI to ask Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli to rethink their T20I future - Report

<p>Virat Kohli smashed a brilliant attacking century to set up a convincing 67-run win for India in the opening one-day international against Sri Lanka on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Kohli hammered 113 off 87 balls to drive India to 373-7 after they were invited to bat first at the start of the three-match series in Guwahati.</p>

<p>Skipper Rohit Sharma (83) and fellow opener Shubman Gill (70) put on 143 runs to lay the foundations of the mammoth total.</p>

<p>The bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj, then restricted Sri Lanka to 306-8 to give India a 1-0 lead in the series.</p>

<p>Skipper Dasun Shanaka top-scored with an unbeaten 108 after opening batsman Pathum Nissanka hit 72 but the knocks could only reduce the margin of loss for the tourists.</p>

<p>Kohli, who survived two dropped catches on 52 and 81, stood out with his 45th ODI hundred and 73rd across all formats as he let out a roar and took off his helmet to bask in the stadium's applause.</p>

<p>He finally fell to third-time-lucky quick Kasun Rajitha, who was also bowling when wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis and Shanaka dropped the star batsman.</p>

<p>Gill hit three successive boundaries off debutant left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka in the fourth over and Rohit smashed two sixes and a four off Rajitha to begin the charge on a batting-friendly pitch.</p>

<p>Rohit, who returned to captain the side after missing India's 2-1 T20I series win, reached his fifty with a four and Gill raised his half-century a short time later.</p>

<p>Gill took on Dunith Wellalage with three successive fours in one over before he fell lbw in the next to Shanaka's medium-pace bowling.</p>

<p>Rohit attempted to keep up the attack with regular boundaries but Madushanka cut short his knock with a length ball that bowled the Indian skipper off an inside edge.</p>

<p>The rest of the innings belonged to Kohli, who has hit two successive ODI hundreds since coming out of an extended lean patch last year.</p>

<p>In reply, Sri Lanka were never in the chase after losing two early wickets including Mendis bowled for a duck off Siraj.</p>

<p>Nissanka attempted to give some life to the chase with his fighting knock and a 72-run fourth-wicket stand with Dhananjaya de Silva, who made 47.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka slipped to 206-8 in the 38th over but Shanaka stretched the match till the final ball with an unbeaten 100-run stand with Rajitha.</p>

<p>Umran Malik took three wickets with his express pace.</p>

<p>The second match is on Thursday at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli smashed a brilliant attacking century to set up a convincing 67-run win for India in the opening one-day international against Sri Lanka on Tuesday. Kohli hammered 113 off 87 balls to drive India to 373-7 after they were invited to bat first at the start of the three-match series in Guwahati.

Virat Kohli smashed a brilliant attacking century to set up a convincing 67-run win for India in the opening one-day international against Sri Lanka on Tuesday. Kohli hammered 113 off 87 balls to drive India to 373-7 after they were invited to bat first at the start of the three-match series in Guwahati. Skipper Rohit Sharma (83) and fellow opener Shubman Gill (70) put on 143 runs to lay the foundations of the mammoth total. The bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj, then restricted Sri Lanka to 306-8 to give India a 1-0 lead in the series. Skipper Dasun Shanaka top-scored with an unbeaten 108 after opening batsman Pathum Nissanka hit 72 but the knocks could only reduce the margin of loss for the tourists. Kohli, who survived two dropped catches on 52 and 81, stood out with his 45th ODI hundred and 73rd across all formats as he let out a roar and took off his helmet to bask in the stadium's applause. He finally fell to third-time-lucky quick Kasun Rajitha, who was also bowling when wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis and Shanaka dropped the star batsman. Gill hit three successive boundaries off debutant left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka in the fourth over and Rohit smashed two sixes and a four off Rajitha to begin the charge on a batting-friendly pitch. Rohit, who returned to captain the side after missing India's 2-1 T20I series win, reached his fifty with a four and Gill raised his half-century a short time later. Gill took on Dunith Wellalage with three successive fours in one over before he fell lbw in the next to Shanaka's medium-pace bowling. Rohit attempted to keep up the attack with regular boundaries but Madushanka cut short his knock with a length ball that bowled the Indian skipper off an inside edge. The rest of the innings belonged to Kohli, who has hit two successive ODI hundreds since coming out of an extended lean patch last year. In reply, Sri Lanka were never in the chase after losing two early wickets including Mendis bowled for a duck off Siraj. Nissanka attempted to give some life to the chase with his fighting knock and a 72-run fourth-wicket stand with Dhananjaya de Silva, who made 47. Sri Lanka slipped to 206-8 in the 38th over but Shanaka stretched the match till the final ball with an unbeaten 100-run stand with Rajitha. Umran Malik took three wickets with his express pace. The second match is on Thursday at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.

Ind vs SL 1st ODI: Men in Blue shine despite Shanaka's heroics

<p>Virat Kohli commenced 2023 in style. With India being asked to bat first in the three-match ODI series opener versus Sri Lanka, on Tuesday (January 10), Kohli banked on a great start provided by Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill (70) to score a magnificent 87-ball 113 and take the home side to a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs. With his 73rd international ton, 45th in the ODI format, Kohli broke a plethora of records and has begun the new calendar year in style as Rohit &amp; Co. have commenced their ODI World Cup preparations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the ODI series opener, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar pinned his hopes on Kohli to return to his 'original heights' in the World Cup year. Speaking to Star Sports, Manjrekar pointed out that Kohli will&nbsp;get back to his best and play to his strengths, by knocking the ball around and rotating the strike, in the 50-over format.</p>

<p>"It's 2023, it's a 50-overs World Cup year. The 50-overs format is brilliant for people who want to get into form. Guys who are short on confidence. It's going to be great for Rohit Sharma. 50-overs cricket is right down his lane, he is already an all-time great. The 50-overs format suits him the most," Manjrekar said. He further asserted, "In 50 overs format, 65 percent of the runs that are scored are in ones and twos, and Virat Kohli loves getting his runs through ones and twos. This will take the pressure off. T20Is, he feels the pressure of going after the bowling. This might just be a brilliant year for Virat Kohli to come back to his original heights."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-way-you-former-indian-speedster-blasts-rahul-dravid-rohit-sharma-for-dropping-ishan-kishan-551059">'No way you...': Former Indian speedster blasts Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma for dropping Ishan Kishan</a></strong></p>

<p>Manjrekar mentioned that it is not fair to say Kohli underwent a lean patch in ODIs, although he slammed his first ton in the format after 2019 during the third and final tie in Bangladesh, in early December.&nbsp;The former cricketer stated that&nbsp;the former skipper contributed with useful knocks and will be more consistent as the year progresses. "See, he has got those innings. Let's be fair. Even when the hundreds haven't come, he has scored runs, he has been in form. We have said multiple times in the last two years that he has been in form. But, the form doesn't carry on. After a hundred, the next two-three innings are not big scores. That's what we are waiting for. This format will allow him. It will give time for Virat Kohli to be the consistent player that he was known as," he added.</p>

<p>Kohli has surely lived upto Manjrekar's expectations with an impressive knock in the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka in Guwahati on Tuesday. Being asked to bat first, India ended on 373 for 7 and will aim for a big win over the Islanders to go 1-0 up in the series.</p>


Virat Kohli commenced 2023 in style. With India being asked to bat first in the three-match ODI series opener versus Sri Lanka, on Tuesday (January 10), Kohli banked on a great start provided by Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill (70) to score a magnificent 87-ball 113 and take the home side to a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs.

Virat Kohli commenced 2023 in style. With India being asked to bat first in the three-match ODI series opener versus Sri Lanka, on Tuesday (January 10), Kohli banked on a great start provided by Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill (70) to score a magnificent 87-ball 113 and take the home side to a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs. With his 73rd international ton, 45th in the ODI format, Kohli broke a plethora of records and has begun the new calendar year in style as Rohit & Co. have commenced their ODI World Cup preparations. Ahead of the ODI series opener, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar pinned his hopes on Kohli to return to his 'original heights' in the World Cup year. Speaking to Star Sports, Manjrekar pointed out that Kohli will get back to his best and play to his strengths, by knocking the ball around and rotating the strike, in the 50-over format. "It's 2023, it's a 50-overs World Cup year. The 50-overs format is brilliant for people who want to get into form. Guys who are short on confidence. It's going to be great for Rohit Sharma. 50-overs cricket is right down his lane, he is already an all-time great. The 50-overs format suits him the most," Manjrekar said. He further asserted, "In 50 overs format, 65 percent of the runs that are scored are in ones and twos, and Virat Kohli loves getting his runs through ones and twos. This will take the pressure off. T20Is, he feels the pressure of going after the bowling. This might just be a brilliant year for Virat Kohli to come back to his original heights." Also read: 'No way you...': Former Indian speedster blasts Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma for dropping Ishan Kishan Manjrekar mentioned that it is not fair to say Kohli underwent a lean patch in ODIs, although he slammed his first ton in the format after 2019 during the third and final tie in Bangladesh, in early December. The former cricketer stated that the former skipper contributed with useful knocks and will be more consistent as the year progresses. "See, he has got those innings. Let's be fair. Even when the hundreds haven't come, he has scored runs, he has been in form. We have said multiple times in the last two years that he has been in form. But, the form doesn't carry on. After a hundred, the next two-three innings are not big scores. That's what we are waiting for. This format will allow him. It will give time for Virat Kohli to be the consistent player that he was known as," he added. Kohli has surely lived upto Manjrekar's expectations with an impressive knock in the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka in Guwahati on Tuesday. Being asked to bat first, India ended on 373 for 7 and will aim for a big win over the Islanders to go 1-0 up in the series.

Virat Kohli might return to his original heights in World Cup year: Sanjay Manjrekar pins hopes on ODI great

<p>Virat Kohli scored his first ODI ton during the third and final match versus Bangladesh, in early December, after&nbsp;August 2019. He has now started 2023 with a brilliant ton as India have locked horns with Sri Lanka, one of Kohli's favourite opponents, in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati. With his 73rd international ton, 45th in the format, he has moved past Sachin Tendulkar to have the most tons in India-SL ODIs (nine), equalled with the Master Blaster with an equal number of centuries at home (20) and also became the fastest to 12,500 international runs (242nd innings).</p>

<p><strong>MOST ODI HUNDREDS AT HOME</strong></p>

<p><strong>Virat Kohli - 20 in 102 ODIs</strong></p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar - 20 in 164 ODIs</p>

<p>Hashim Amla - 14 in 69 ODIs</p>

<p>Ricky Ponting - 13 in 153 ODIs</p>

<p>Ross Taylor - 12 in 110 ODIs</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-way-you-former-indian-speedster-blasts-rahul-dravid-rohit-sharma-for-dropping-ishan-kishan-551059">'No way you...': Former Indian speedster blasts Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma for dropping Ishan Kishan</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Most ODI hundreds against Sri Lanka:</strong></p>

<p><strong>9 - Virat Kohli&nbsp;</strong><br />
8 - Sachin Tendulkar<br />
7 - Saeed Anwar<br />
6 - Gautam Gambhir<br />
6 - Rohit Sharma<br />
6 - Adam Gilchrist</p>

<p><strong>Most international hundreds as a non-opener:</strong></p>

<p>72 - Virat Kohli&nbsp;<br />
71 - Ricky Ponting<br />
62 - Jacques Kallis<br />
59 - Kumar Sangakkara<br />
55 - Sachin Tendulkar</p>

<p>Coming out to bat with India off to a great start, courtesy of captain Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill's (70) 143-run opening stand, Kohli looked in his elements from the word go. He was dropped twice but the former skipper rotated strike and also found the boundaries at regular intervals to end with an 87-ball 113, studded with 12 fours and a six at a strike rate of 129.89. He stitched valuable stands with Shreyas Iyer (40-run stand) and KL Rahul (adding 90 runs for the fourth-wicket) to lead India's charge. Eventually, India managed a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs and will aim to wrap up the proceedings with a big win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli has, thus, started the ODI World Cup year with a big ton. He will aim to continue with the momentum in the upcoming white-ball assignments for India, at home, before IPL 2023.</p>


Virat Kohli scored his first ODI ton during the third and final match versus Bangladesh, in early December, after August 2019. He has now started 2023 with a brilliant ton as India have locked horns with Sri Lanka, one of Kohli's favourite opponents, in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati.

Virat Kohli scored his first ODI ton during the third and final match versus Bangladesh, in early December, after August 2019. He has now started 2023 with a brilliant ton as India have locked horns with Sri Lanka, one of Kohli's favourite opponents, in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati. With his 73rd international ton, 45th in the format, he has moved past Sachin Tendulkar to have the most tons in India-SL ODIs (nine), equalled with the Master Blaster with an equal number of centuries at home (20) and also became the fastest to 12,500 international runs (242nd innings). MOST ODI HUNDREDS AT HOME Virat Kohli - 20 in 102 ODIs Sachin Tendulkar - 20 in 164 ODIs Hashim Amla - 14 in 69 ODIs Ricky Ponting - 13 in 153 ODIs Ross Taylor - 12 in 110 ODIs Also read: 'No way you...': Former Indian speedster blasts Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma for dropping Ishan Kishan Most ODI hundreds against Sri Lanka: 9 - Virat Kohli 8 - Sachin Tendulkar 7 - Saeed Anwar 6 - Gautam Gambhir 6 - Rohit Sharma 6 - Adam Gilchrist Most international hundreds as a non-opener: 72 - Virat Kohli 71 - Ricky Ponting 62 - Jacques Kallis 59 - Kumar Sangakkara 55 - Sachin Tendulkar Coming out to bat with India off to a great start, courtesy of captain Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill's (70) 143-run opening stand, Kohli looked in his elements from the word go. He was dropped twice but the former skipper rotated strike and also found the boundaries at regular intervals to end with an 87-ball 113, studded with 12 fours and a six at a strike rate of 129.89. He stitched valuable stands with Shreyas Iyer (40-run stand) and KL Rahul (adding 90 runs for the fourth-wicket) to lead India's charge. Eventually, India managed a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs and will aim to wrap up the proceedings with a big win. Kohli has, thus, started the ODI World Cup year with a big ton. He will aim to continue with the momentum in the upcoming white-ball assignments for India, at home, before IPL 2023.

IND vs SL: Virat Kohli moves past Sachin Tendulkar, breaks plethora of records during his 73rd ton in 1st ODI

<p>A lot has been said and written about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's T20I future following the T20 World Cup, which took place last year in Australia. Following India's ten-wicket defeat at the hands of eventual winners England in the semi-finals, many thought it was the end of the road for Rohit and Kohli, two of India's finest batters, in the shortest format of the game. While nothing official has been annonunced, it seems the BCCI selectors have started to move on from the two senior pros as they are believed to shift their focus solely on this year's ODI World Cup, in India, whereas India have relied on Hardik Pandya to lead a young and inexperienced T20I team since the T20 WC debacle.</p>

<p>With Hardik being touted as the next T20I captain, also the next white-ball skipper after Rohit, and BCCI selectors relying on young guns for the shortest format, there is uncertainity regarding Rohit and Kohli's future in the format. Ahead of the India-Sri Lanka ODIs, which gets underway on Tuesday (January 10), Karim told&nbsp;News Sports, "I feel there is no need to pick them currently. Yes, they can be considered if they do well in the IPL,” said Karim. He added, “There is a chance that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will have a fantastic IPL season. If that happens, the selectors will not be able to look beyond them. The same happened in Dinesh Karthik's case last year."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-odi-virat-kohli-eyes-sachin-tendulkars-elite-feat-in-series-opener-in-guwahati-550743">IND vs SL, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli eyes Sachin Tendulkar's elite feat in series opener in Guwahati</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the SL ODIs, captain Rohit has confirmed that he hasn't given up on the T20I format. It will be interesting to see if the selectors consider bringing back the senior duo in the upcoming series or after IPL 2023. Given that India have started preparations for the ODI WC, to be held in India in October-November, Rohit and Kohli have shifted their focus on the 50-over format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit and Kohli will be seen in action for the first time in 2023 when India take on Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India squad for ODI series against Sri Lanka</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh</p>


A lot has been said and written about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's T20I future following the T20 World Cup, which took place last year in Australia. Following India's ten-wicket defeat at the hands of eventual winners England in the semi-finals, many thought it was the end of the road for Rohit and Kohli, two of India's finest batters, in the shortest format of the game.

A lot has been said and written about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's T20I future following the T20 World Cup, which took place last year in Australia. Following India's ten-wicket defeat at the hands of eventual winners England in the semi-finals, many thought it was the end of the road for Rohit and Kohli, two of India's finest batters, in the shortest format of the game. While nothing official has been annonunced, it seems the BCCI selectors have started to move on from the two senior pros as they are believed to shift their focus solely on this year's ODI World Cup, in India, whereas India have relied on Hardik Pandya to lead a young and inexperienced T20I team since the T20 WC debacle. With Hardik being touted as the next T20I captain, also the next white-ball skipper after Rohit, and BCCI selectors relying on young guns for the shortest format, there is uncertainity regarding Rohit and Kohli's future in the format. Ahead of the India-Sri Lanka ODIs, which gets underway on Tuesday (January 10), Karim told News Sports, "I feel there is no need to pick them currently. Yes, they can be considered if they do well in the IPL,” said Karim. He added, “There is a chance that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will have a fantastic IPL season. If that happens, the selectors will not be able to look beyond them. The same happened in Dinesh Karthik's case last year." Also read: IND vs SL, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli eyes Sachin Tendulkar's elite feat in series opener in Guwahati Ahead of the SL ODIs, captain Rohit has confirmed that he hasn't given up on the T20I format. It will be interesting to see if the selectors consider bringing back the senior duo in the upcoming series or after IPL 2023. Given that India have started preparations for the ODI WC, to be held in India in October-November, Rohit and Kohli have shifted their focus on the 50-over format. Rohit and Kohli will be seen in action for the first time in 2023 when India take on Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (January 10) in Guwahati. India squad for ODI series against Sri Lanka Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh

'No need to....' Former Indian stumper opines on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's T20I future

<p>India will kick off their ODI World Cup preparations, to be held later this year in India, with the three-match ODI series versus Sri Lanka. The series gets underway on Tuesday (January 10) with the first ODI set to be held at the&nbsp;Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. With the commencement of the series, India will see the return of their big players such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul whereas Hardik Pandya, who captained in the SL T20Is, will also be playing his first T20I after July 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the series opener, King Kohli will aim to match Sachin Tendulkar's elite feat.&nbsp;Master Blaster had a stellar international career and ended with several records. The legendary cricketer holds the record for most ODI hundreds at home, with 20 in 164 matches. Kohli, on the other hand, follows suit in the list with 19 tons in just 101 matches. However, his last home triple-figure knock in the format&nbsp;came in March 2019 against Australia. Kohli, who scored a century the last time he played an ODI for India (in the Bangladesh series in December 2022), will equal Tendulkar with most ODI hundreds on home soil if he touches the 100-run mark in the SL series opener.</p>

<p><strong>MOST ODI HUNDREDS AT HOME</strong></p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar - 20 in 164 ODIs</p>

<p><strong>Virat Kohli - 19 in 101 ODIs</strong></p>

<p>Hashim Amla - 14 in 69 ODIs</p>

<p>Ricky Ponting - 13 in 153 ODIs</p>

<p>Ross Taylor - 12 in 110 ODIs</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;The new Universe Boss is Suryakumar Yadav: Former Pakistan spinner hails Indian star batter after SL T20Is</strong></p>

<p>Kohli is also level with Tendulkar for most hundreds scored in ODIs against Sri Lanka. The former captain has amassed 2,220 runs against the 1996 champions at&nbsp;60 with 8 centuries. Meanwhile, Tendulkar also has an equal number of hundreds but&nbsp;sits atop with&nbsp;the most runs in ODIs between the two Asian giants (3,113 runs in 84 matches).</p>

<p><strong>MOST HUNDREDS IN INDIA vs SRI LANKA ODIs,</strong></p>

<p><strong>Virat Kohli - 8 in 47 matches</strong><br />
Sachin Tendulkar - 8 in 84 matches<br />
Sanath Jayasuriya - 7 in 89 matches<br />
Gautam Gambhir - 6 in 37 matches<br />
Rohit Sharma - 6 in 46 matches<br />
Kumar Sangakkara - 6 in 76 matches</p>

<p>If Kohli gets going in the IND-SL series and piles heaps of runs, he will also break into the top 5 of all-time run-scorers list in his preferred format; i.e. the ODIs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>MOST RUNS IN ODIs - ALL-TIME LIST</strong></p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar - 18426 runs in 463 ODIs<br />
Kumar Sangakkara - 14234 runs in 404 ODIs<br />
Ricky Ponting - 13704 runs in 375 ODIs<br />
Sanath Jayasuriya - 134300 runs in 445 ODIs<br />
Mahela Jaywardene - 12650 runs in 448 ODIs<br />
<strong>Virat Kohli - 12471 runs in 265 ODIs</strong></p>

<p>Kohli wasn't part of the India-SL T20Is and, hence, will start afresh when both sides will lock horns in the ODI series opener on Tuesday afternoon.</p>


India will kick off their ODI World Cup preparations, to be held later this year in India, with the three-match ODI series versus Sri Lanka. The series gets underway on Tuesday (January 10) with the first ODI set to be held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

India will kick off their ODI World Cup preparations, to be held later this year in India, with the three-match ODI series versus Sri Lanka. The series gets underway on Tuesday (January 10) with the first ODI set to be held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. With the commencement of the series, India will see the return of their big players such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul whereas Hardik Pandya, who captained in the SL T20Is, will also be playing his first T20I after July 2022. Ahead of the series opener, King Kohli will aim to match Sachin Tendulkar's elite feat. Master Blaster had a stellar international career and ended with several records. The legendary cricketer holds the record for most ODI hundreds at home, with 20 in 164 matches. Kohli, on the other hand, follows suit in the list with 19 tons in just 101 matches. However, his last home triple-figure knock in the format came in March 2019 against Australia. Kohli, who scored a century the last time he played an ODI for India (in the Bangladesh series in December 2022), will equal Tendulkar with most ODI hundreds on home soil if he touches the 100-run mark in the SL series opener. MOST ODI HUNDREDS AT HOME Sachin Tendulkar - 20 in 164 ODIs Virat Kohli - 19 in 101 ODIs Hashim Amla - 14 in 69 ODIs Ricky Ponting - 13 in 153 ODIs Ross Taylor - 12 in 110 ODIs Also read: The new Universe Boss is Suryakumar Yadav: Former Pakistan spinner hails Indian star batter after SL T20Is Kohli is also level with Tendulkar for most hundreds scored in ODIs against Sri Lanka. The former captain has amassed 2,220 runs against the 1996 champions at 60 with 8 centuries. Meanwhile, Tendulkar also has an equal number of hundreds but sits atop with the most runs in ODIs between the two Asian giants (3,113 runs in 84 matches). MOST HUNDREDS IN INDIA vs SRI LANKA ODIs, Virat Kohli - 8 in 47 matches Sachin Tendulkar - 8 in 84 matches Sanath Jayasuriya - 7 in 89 matches Gautam Gambhir - 6 in 37 matches Rohit Sharma - 6 in 46 matches Kumar Sangakkara - 6 in 76 matches If Kohli gets going in the IND-SL series and piles heaps of runs, he will also break into the top 5 of all-time run-scorers list in his preferred format; i.e. the ODIs. MOST RUNS IN ODIs - ALL-TIME LIST Sachin Tendulkar - 18426 runs in 463 ODIs Kumar Sangakkara - 14234 runs in 404 ODIs Ricky Ponting - 13704 runs in 375 ODIs Sanath Jayasuriya - 134300 runs in 445 ODIs Mahela Jaywardene - 12650 runs in 448 ODIs Virat Kohli - 12471 runs in 265 ODIs Kohli wasn't part of the India-SL T20Is and, hence, will start afresh when both sides will lock horns in the ODI series opener on Tuesday afternoon.

IND vs SL, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli eyes Sachin Tendulkar's elite feat in series opener in Guwahati

<p>Former team India selector and a World Cup-winner himself, Krishnamachari Srikkanth has predicted that much like Gautam Gambhir of&nbsp;2011, stalwart Virat Kohli will also play an anchor role in the upcoming 2023 World Cup, scheduled for October-November this year. In the team full of stars, Gambhir hogged the limelight with his match-winning 97 in the 2011 final against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. In addition to that, the left-handed batter also&nbsp;played a few handy knocks throughout the tournament batting at number 3, cutting a reputation of a saviour.</p>

<p>Virat, who also was part of that squad, scored important runs in selective games, including in the final and helped India lift the World Cup after 28 years. Now 12 years later, a veteran of the game with 12,471 ODI runs to his name, Kohli will aim to lift the coveted 50-over World Cup for the second time. Srikkanth, however, believes Kohli can replicate the heroics of Gambhir in the coming edition of mega tournament.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sarfaraz-ahmeds-superb-hundred-saves-pakistan-as-2nd-test-vs-nz-also-ends-in-a-draw-honours-shared-550077">Sarfaraz Ahmed's superb hundred saves Pakistan as 2nd Test vs NZ also ends in a draw; honours shared</a></p>

<p>As quoted by Sportskeeda, Srikkanth said, “What a great feeling it was, to win the 83’ World Cup as a player and then to be chairman of selectors of the team, which won&nbsp;the 2011 World Cup is a story I can tell my grandchildren. First of all, the knock played by Gautam Gambhir was phenomenal, that too in the World Cup, congratulations to him, I am proud of him. Superb batting throughout the tournament. I am making the prediction that Virat Kohli will show us the same heroics in the 2023 World Cup."</p>

<p>Believing that swashbuckling opener Ishan Kishan will also be part of the final squad for the World Cup, following his record-breaking double hundred in an ODI against Bangladesh recently, Srikkanth said Kohli must take up the anchor role like Gambhir did in 2011, allowing players like Ishan to play with freedom.</p>

<p>"Just like Gautam Gambhir has played a major role of anchor in the past, the same way Virat Kohli will play that role this time around. He will help players like Ishan Kishan excel just as he got a century when Kishan got a double century."</p>

<p>"It’s all about freedom, giving your players the freedom, do what you want, play your game even if you get out, that’s the approach the team should have,” the former selector said.</p>

<p>The Indian team is currently playing Sri Lanka in the bilateral series at home and then will be facing New Zealand before taking on Australia for four Tests in the Border-Gavaskar series. As reported earlier, the BCCI has shortlisted 20 key players for the World Cup, and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) has been asked to monitor their workload management. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Former team India selector and a World Cup-winner himself, Krishnamachari Srikkanth has predicted that much like Gautam Gambhir of 2011, stalwart Virat Kohli will also play an anchor role in the upcoming 2023 World Cup, scheduled for October-November this year.

Former team India selector and a World Cup-winner himself, Krishnamachari Srikkanth has predicted that much like Gautam Gambhir of 2011, stalwart Virat Kohli will also play an anchor role in the upcoming 2023 World Cup, scheduled for October-November this year. In the team full of stars, Gambhir hogged the limelight with his match-winning 97 in the 2011 final against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. In addition to that, the left-handed batter also played a few handy knocks throughout the tournament batting at number 3, cutting a reputation of a saviour. Virat, who also was part of that squad, scored important runs in selective games, including in the final and helped India lift the World Cup after 28 years. Now 12 years later, a veteran of the game with 12,471 ODI runs to his name, Kohli will aim to lift the coveted 50-over World Cup for the second time. Srikkanth, however, believes Kohli can replicate the heroics of Gambhir in the coming edition of mega tournament. ALSO READ: Sarfaraz Ahmed's superb hundred saves Pakistan as 2nd Test vs NZ also ends in a draw; honours shared As quoted by Sportskeeda, Srikkanth said, “What a great feeling it was, to win the 83’ World Cup as a player and then to be chairman of selectors of the team, which won the 2011 World Cup is a story I can tell my grandchildren. First of all, the knock played by Gautam Gambhir was phenomenal, that too in the World Cup, congratulations to him, I am proud of him. Superb batting throughout the tournament. I am making the prediction that Virat Kohli will show us the same heroics in the 2023 World Cup." Believing that swashbuckling opener Ishan Kishan will also be part of the final squad for the World Cup, following his record-breaking double hundred in an ODI against Bangladesh recently, Srikkanth said Kohli must take up the anchor role like Gambhir did in 2011, allowing players like Ishan to play with freedom. "Just like Gautam Gambhir has played a major role of anchor in the past, the same way Virat Kohli will play that role this time around. He will help players like Ishan Kishan excel just as he got a century when Kishan got a double century." "It’s all about freedom, giving your players the freedom, do what you want, play your game even if you get out, that’s the approach the team should have,” the former selector said. The Indian team is currently playing Sri Lanka in the bilateral series at home and then will be facing New Zealand before taking on Australia for four Tests in the Border-Gavaskar series. As reported earlier, the BCCI has shortlisted 20 key players for the World Cup, and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) has been asked to monitor their workload management. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Virat Kohli to do a Gautam Gambhir at 2023 World Cup, predicts ex-selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth

<p>Anushka Sharma and husband Virat Kohli keep things private so when a video of them at Vrindavan ashram surfaced on the internet, fans couldn’t help but notice their love for one another. The couple was spotted with their daughter Vamika as they sought blessings. They recently visited Baba Neem Karoli’s ashram in Vrindavan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video has Vamika’s face covered with emojis wherever visible. It begins with Anushka holding Vamika on her lap as she sits beside Virat. The family can be seen seeking blessings from the priest who also puts a veil around Anushka Sharma. He then goes on to bless little Vamika.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then Anushka bows down and prays while Virat Kohli picks up their daughter in his arms. It’s a moment, if you will!</p>

<p>Watch their video here:</p>

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<p>The family can be seen keeping it comfortable as Vamika wore a white dress, Anushka is seen in a black jacket with a white cap. Virat had donned an olive green jacket with black cap and trousers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the couple arrived in Vrindavan on Wednesday. They distributed blankets. They also meditated for an hour at the ashram.&nbsp;</p>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src=https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&mute=1 width="100%"></iframe>


Anushka Sharma and husband Virat Kohli keep things private so when a video of them at Vrindavan ashram surfaced on the internet, fans couldn’t help but notice their love for one another.

Anushka Sharma and husband Virat Kohli keep things private so when a video of them at Vrindavan ashram surfaced on the internet, fans couldn’t help but notice their love for one another. The couple was spotted with their daughter Vamika as they sought blessings. They recently visited Baba Neem Karoli’s ashram in Vrindavan. The video has Vamika’s face covered with emojis wherever visible. It begins with Anushka holding Vamika on her lap as she sits beside Virat. The family can be seen seeking blessings from the priest who also puts a veil around Anushka Sharma. He then goes on to bless little Vamika. Then Anushka bows down and prays while Virat Kohli picks up their daughter in his arms. It’s a moment, if you will! Watch their video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by @virushka_always1801 × The family can be seen keeping it comfortable as Vamika wore a white dress, Anushka is seen in a black jacket with a white cap. Virat had donned an olive green jacket with black cap and trousers. According to reports, the couple arrived in Vrindavan on Wednesday. They distributed blankets. They also meditated for an hour at the ashram.

Watch video: Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli seek blessings in Vrindavan

<p>After an ordinary run in 2022, Team India kicked off their run in 2023 with a narrow win over Sri Lanka in the first T20I of their three-match series on home soil. The year 2023 is an important one for the national side with the WTC final, in June, and the ODI World Cup later this year. It will be hosted entirely by India and Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have lots to do if they wish to win the ODI WC and end their nine-year-long ICC-title drought.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the commencement of 2023, BCCI held a review meeting with head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit and NCA chief VVS Laxman to discuss the road ahead for Team India and review last year's T20 World Cup debacle. As per reports, 20 players have been shortlisted for the marquee event and their fitness and progress will be closely monitored by the BCCI and team management in the run-up to the ODI WC. Amid all this, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has backed Rohit and Virat Kohli to come good and believes they can anchor the innings as they play spin really well. Gambhir feels Rohit and Kohli will play a 'massive role' in the upcoming WC.</p>

<p>"I feel people like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and all those guys who can anchor their innings, who probably can play spin really well will play a massive role the coming World Cup," said Gambhir, while speaking on Star Sports show 'Road to World Cup Glory'. He also asked the team management to identify players who can fit into the template they are looking to form for the big event. "First, you need to identify the players who got that fearless approach and probably in a format like 50 overs you need to have a mixture of every kind of player. There are players who can anchor their innings. Change in role has also made a huge difference. During that time we had only one new ball, now we have got two new balls with five fielders inside.</p>

<p>"So, the role of a part timer has gone out of the window. The reverse swings, you don't see enough of reverse swings anymore, you don't see enough of chase for the finger spinners as well. But, I always feel that when we talk about this new approach, which India always talks about, the template and stuff, you have got to identify players who can adapt those roles or that template very easily," Gambhir asserted.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-ordered-to-be-airlifted-to-mumbai-from-bcci-board-mulling-moving-treatment-overseas-549322">BCCI to airlift Rishabh Pant to Mumbai, mulling to send him overseas for expert care</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir added that if some players cannot adapt to the new template, there is no point in trying to fit them into the side. "Some people just cannot adapt to that template so why push them to play in a certain way which doesn't come naturally to them. So, for me, I think identifying players and at the same time getting the right mix is very important, rather than thinking that we have to play at a certain template so we got to select all the 15 with a similar mind-set or with a similar template," he added.</p>

<p>It is believed that Rohit, Kohli and few others will not play a lot of T20Is this year and shift their focus entirely on the ODI WC. The upcoming 50-over showpiece event can be Rohit and Kohli's last international appearance and the duo will be desperare to sign off on a high.</p>


After an ordinary run in 2022, Team India kicked off their run in 2023 with a narrow win over Sri Lanka in the first T20I of their three-match series on home soil.

After an ordinary run in 2022, Team India kicked off their run in 2023 with a narrow win over Sri Lanka in the first T20I of their three-match series on home soil. The year 2023 is an important one for the national side with the WTC final, in June, and the ODI World Cup later this year. It will be hosted entirely by India and Rohit Sharma & Co. have lots to do if they wish to win the ODI WC and end their nine-year-long ICC-title drought. With the commencement of 2023, BCCI held a review meeting with head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit and NCA chief VVS Laxman to discuss the road ahead for Team India and review last year's T20 World Cup debacle. As per reports, 20 players have been shortlisted for the marquee event and their fitness and progress will be closely monitored by the BCCI and team management in the run-up to the ODI WC. Amid all this, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has backed Rohit and Virat Kohli to come good and believes they can anchor the innings as they play spin really well. Gambhir feels Rohit and Kohli will play a 'massive role' in the upcoming WC. "I feel people like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and all those guys who can anchor their innings, who probably can play spin really well will play a massive role the coming World Cup," said Gambhir, while speaking on Star Sports show 'Road to World Cup Glory'. He also asked the team management to identify players who can fit into the template they are looking to form for the big event. "First, you need to identify the players who got that fearless approach and probably in a format like 50 overs you need to have a mixture of every kind of player. There are players who can anchor their innings. Change in role has also made a huge difference. During that time we had only one new ball, now we have got two new balls with five fielders inside. "So, the role of a part timer has gone out of the window. The reverse swings, you don't see enough of reverse swings anymore, you don't see enough of chase for the finger spinners as well. But, I always feel that when we talk about this new approach, which India always talks about, the template and stuff, you have got to identify players who can adapt those roles or that template very easily," Gambhir asserted. Also read: BCCI to airlift Rishabh Pant to Mumbai, mulling to send him overseas for expert care Gambhir added that if some players cannot adapt to the new template, there is no point in trying to fit them into the side. "Some people just cannot adapt to that template so why push them to play in a certain way which doesn't come naturally to them. So, for me, I think identifying players and at the same time getting the right mix is very important, rather than thinking that we have to play at a certain template so we got to select all the 15 with a similar mind-set or with a similar template," he added. It is believed that Rohit, Kohli and few others will not play a lot of T20Is this year and shift their focus entirely on the ODI WC. The upcoming 50-over showpiece event can be Rohit and Kohli's last international appearance and the duo will be desperare to sign off on a high.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma will play massive role: Gambhir pins hopes on senior pros for 2023 ODI World Cup

<p>India's ODI World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev doesn't shy away from expressing his views on several aspects pertaining to Indian cricket. As India have shifted their focus towards the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be hosted entirely by the country later this year, Kapil made a bold claim saying that if the team is dependent on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and 2-3 other players to win the title, the dream of winning the mega event won't be fulfilled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to ABP News, Kapil pointed out that though India have the quality to win the ODI WC, they need to start looking beyond Kohli and Rohit and have at least 5-6 match-winners. He opined, "If you want to win the World Cup, the coach, selectors, and team management will have to make some tough decisions. Personal interests will have to take a backseat and they will need to think about the team.<em>&nbsp;Aap Virat pe, Rohit pe ya 2-3 players pe bharosa karenge ki woh hume World Cup jeetayenge toh aisa kabhi bhi nahi ho sakta</em>&nbsp;(If you think Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and 2-3 players will win us the World Cup then that's never going to happen). You should believe in your team. Do we have such a team? Definitely. Do we have certain match winners? Yes, of course! We have players who can win the World Cup."</p>

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<p><strong>Also read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-understand-one-has-hobbies-but-kapil-dev-reacts-to-rishabh-pants-accident-gives-a-valuable-advise-548702">I understand one has hobbies but...' Kapil Dev reacts to Rishabh Pant's accident, gives a valuable advice</a></strong></p>

<p>Kapil further asserted, "There are always a couple of players who turn out to be the pillars of your side. The team revolves around them but we need to break that and build at least 5-6 players like that. That's why I say, you can't depend on Virat and Rohit. You need players who fulfill each of their responsibilities. The youngsters will need to come forward and say 'it is our time'."</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will depend on the captain and Kohli -- who are believed to make their last international appearance during the forthcoming World Cup -- but will be desperate for the likes of Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. to stand tall and win some games during the showpiece event. Last time when India co-hosted the ODI WC, they won the championship under MS Dhoni. In 2013, India won its last ICC title and, hence, will be eager to end their nine-year-long ICC-trophy drought later this year. For that, they will have to adopt a more aggressive approach as a team and hope for more match-winners to raise their hands at regular intervals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Rishabh Pant accident</strong></p>

<p>Recently, Kapil also reacted to Rishabh Pant's freak car accident, on December 30 on the Delhi-Dehradun highway. In this regard, he said, "This is a learning. When I was still an up-and-coming cricketer, I faced a motorcycle accident. From that day onwards, my brother didn't even let me touch the motorbike. I'm just thankful to god that Rishabh Pant is safe. Yes, you have a good-looking car with great speeds but you have to be careful. You can easily afford a driver, you don't have to drive it alone." He added, "I understand that one has hobbies or even passion for such things, it's natural to have it at his age, but you also have responsibilities. Only you can take care of yourself. You have to decide things for yourself."</p>

<p>Pant, on Monday (January 02), came out of the ICU at Max hospital, Dehradun as the keeper-batter is fighting hard to recover fully following his serious accident.</p>
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India's ODI World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev doesn't shy away from expressing his views on several aspects pertaining to Indian cricket. As India have shifted their focus towards the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be hosted entirely by the country later this year, Kapil made a bold claim saying that if the team is dependent on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and 2-3 other players to win the title, the dream of winning the mega event won't be fulfilled.

India's ODI World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev doesn't shy away from expressing his views on several aspects pertaining to Indian cricket. As India have shifted their focus towards the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be hosted entirely by the country later this year, Kapil made a bold claim saying that if the team is dependent on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and 2-3 other players to win the title, the dream of winning the mega event won't be fulfilled. Speaking to ABP News, Kapil pointed out that though India have the quality to win the ODI WC, they need to start looking beyond Kohli and Rohit and have at least 5-6 match-winners. He opined, "If you want to win the World Cup, the coach, selectors, and team management will have to make some tough decisions. Personal interests will have to take a backseat and they will need to think about the team. Aap Virat pe, Rohit pe ya 2-3 players pe bharosa karenge ki woh hume World Cup jeetayenge toh aisa kabhi bhi nahi ho sakta (If you think Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and 2-3 players will win us the World Cup then that's never going to happen). You should believe in your team. Do we have such a team? Definitely. Do we have certain match winners? Yes, of course! We have players who can win the World Cup." Also read: 'I understand one has hobbies but...' Kapil Dev reacts to Rishabh Pant's accident, gives a valuable advice Kapil further asserted, "There are always a couple of players who turn out to be the pillars of your side. The team revolves around them but we need to break that and build at least 5-6 players like that. That's why I say, you can't depend on Virat and Rohit. You need players who fulfill each of their responsibilities. The youngsters will need to come forward and say 'it is our time'." Rohit-led India will depend on the captain and Kohli -- who are believed to make their last international appearance during the forthcoming World Cup -- but will be desperate for the likes of Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. to stand tall and win some games during the showpiece event. Last time when India co-hosted the ODI WC, they won the championship under MS Dhoni. In 2013, India won its last ICC title and, hence, will be eager to end their nine-year-long ICC-trophy drought later this year. For that, they will have to adopt a more aggressive approach as a team and hope for more match-winners to raise their hands at regular intervals. Rishabh Pant accident Recently, Kapil also reacted to Rishabh Pant's freak car accident, on December 30 on the Delhi-Dehradun highway. In this regard, he said, "This is a learning. When I was still an up-and-coming cricketer, I faced a motorcycle accident. From that day onwards, my brother didn't even let me touch the motorbike. I'm just thankful to god that Rishabh Pant is safe. Yes, you have a good-looking car with great speeds but you have to be careful. You can easily afford a driver, you don't have to drive it alone." He added, "I understand that one has hobbies or even passion for such things, it's natural to have it at his age, but you also have responsibilities. Only you can take care of yourself. You have to decide things for yourself." Pant, on Monday (January 02), came out of the ICU at Max hospital, Dehradun as the keeper-batter is fighting hard to recover fully following his serious accident.

'Can't depend on Kohli, Rohit to win us ODI WC, we need...': Ex-India captain Kapil Dev's BOLD remark

<p>As 2022 came to an end, we take a look at who were India’s top performers across formats during the&nbsp;last year. Surprisingly, the list doesn’t include two of India’s stalwarts – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. On the last day of 2022, the BCCI listed out best performers from each format.</p>

<p>To begin with, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were&nbsp;the two standout players in red-ball cricket. While Pant scored 680 runs in seven matches at an astonishing average of 61.81 with two centuries and four fifties, Bumrah picked up 22 wickets in just five matches played – averaging 20.31 with the ball, having the best-match figures of 8/47.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ddca-director-shyam-sharma-provides-latest-update-on-rishabh-pant-says-hes-responding-well-to-treatment-548425">DDCA director Shyam Sharma provides latest update on Rishabh Pant, says he's responding well to treatment</a></p>

<p>Moving to the shorter formats, batter Shreyas Iyer had a phenomenal year in ODIs -&nbsp;hitting 724 runs in 17 matches. He scored six fifties and a hundred averaging 55.69. In the bowling department, seamer Mohammed Siraj performed the best. In 15 ODIs in appeared in last year, Siraj picked up 24 wickets at an average of 23.5.</p>

<p>In the T20Is, one name that just had to be there was that of Suryakumar Yadav. Country’s newest batting sensation, SKY, as he is often known as, scored 1164 runs in 31 matches. In addition to averaging&nbsp;46.56, which is anyway considered superb in T20s, Surya scored two hundreds in the same year – which is joint-highest by an Indian in this format.&nbsp;To accompany him on the list is the swing specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who picked up 37 wickets in 32 games played&nbsp;at an average of 19.56, with best-match figures of 5/4, that came against Afghanistan during the Asia Cup.</p>

<p>While there were many standout performances to cherish throughout the year, it didn’t go well for team India in terms of success across formats as they lost the Asia Cup, the T20 World Cup and even the away Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Come this year, the Men in Blue have a lot of look forward to including the upcoming home Test series against Australia alongside the Asia Cup and then the 50-over World Cup in India.</p>


As 2022 came to an end, we take a look at who were India’s top performers across formats during the last year. Surprisingly, the list doesn’t include two of India’s stalwarts – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

As 2022 came to an end, we take a look at who were India’s top performers across formats during the last year. Surprisingly, the list doesn’t include two of India’s stalwarts – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. On the last day of 2022, the BCCI listed out best performers from each format. To begin with, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were the two standout players in red-ball cricket. While Pant scored 680 runs in seven matches at an astonishing average of 61.81 with two centuries and four fifties, Bumrah picked up 22 wickets in just five matches played – averaging 20.31 with the ball, having the best-match figures of 8/47. ALSO READ: DDCA director Shyam Sharma provides latest update on Rishabh Pant, says he's responding well to treatment Moving to the shorter formats, batter Shreyas Iyer had a phenomenal year in ODIs - hitting 724 runs in 17 matches. He scored six fifties and a hundred averaging 55.69. In the bowling department, seamer Mohammed Siraj performed the best. In 15 ODIs in appeared in last year, Siraj picked up 24 wickets at an average of 23.5. In the T20Is, one name that just had to be there was that of Suryakumar Yadav. Country’s newest batting sensation, SKY, as he is often known as, scored 1164 runs in 31 matches. In addition to averaging 46.56, which is anyway considered superb in T20s, Surya scored two hundreds in the same year – which is joint-highest by an Indian in this format. To accompany him on the list is the swing specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who picked up 37 wickets in 32 games played at an average of 19.56, with best-match figures of 5/4, that came against Afghanistan during the Asia Cup. While there were many standout performances to cherish throughout the year, it didn’t go well for team India in terms of success across formats as they lost the Asia Cup, the T20 World Cup and even the away Test series against South Africa. Come this year, the Men in Blue have a lot of look forward to including the upcoming home Test series against Australia alongside the Asia Cup and then the 50-over World Cup in India.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing as BCCI shares list of top performers across formats from last year

<p>India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind&nbsp;team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka. With India being reduced to 12 for 2 in the final session on Day 3, many expected Kohli to walk out at his usual batting slot; i.e. No. 4.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the Rahul Dravid-led team management surprised one and all and sent out Axar. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator, wasn't impressed with the move and told on Sony Sports, "It didn't send a good message to Kohli. He is the best batsman in the world. Unless Kohli himself asked for it, then it's a different matter. We don't know what happened in the changing room. But it's hard to understand. Axar has played well, of course."</p>

<p>Jadeja,&nbsp;part of the Hindi panel, opined, "He is the world's best player. 15 overs were left. Saba Karim said it could have been because of the left-right combination, which is an obvious thought, but then I feel - did Rishabh Pant take a sleeping pill? I will also say that it is easy for us to say this from here; we don't know if someone was not feeling well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-ind-2022-he-is-doing-great-job-for-the-teamcaptain-kl-rahul-hails-star-performer-after-series-win-546500">BAN vs IND 2022: 'He is doing great job for the team...'captain KL Rahul hails star performer after series win</a></strong></p>

<p>Pujara, who won&nbsp;the Player-of-the-Series award, opened up on the move after the series triumph. Talking to the broadcasters, he gave an insight behind Axar's promotion and said, "It was a very good move because among their three strike bowlers, two were left-arm spinners. Axar is a left-hander, so he was sent to tackle them and to have a batter who can bat sensibly in the initial period against the Kookaburra ball. It was a crucial move for us. That was an important phase of the game where we didn't want to lose too many wickets in the evening, and he could have batted cautiously. So I was not surprised. When you are chasing a 145-run total, every run is important, and the way he batted, his innings was very valuable for us."</p>

<p>The left-handed Axar played a cautious 69-ball 34 whereas Kohli departed for 1 during India's three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers. Shreyas Iyer's 29 not out and R Ashwin's 62-ball 42* held their nerves and took India home after they were reeling at 74-7 in the morning session of Day 4.</p>


India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka.

India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka. With India being reduced to 12 for 2 in the final session on Day 3, many expected Kohli to walk out at his usual batting slot; i.e. No. 4. Nonetheless, the Rahul Dravid-led team management surprised one and all and sent out Axar. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator, wasn't impressed with the move and told on Sony Sports, "It didn't send a good message to Kohli. He is the best batsman in the world. Unless Kohli himself asked for it, then it's a different matter. We don't know what happened in the changing room. But it's hard to understand. Axar has played well, of course." Jadeja, part of the Hindi panel, opined, "He is the world's best player. 15 overs were left. Saba Karim said it could have been because of the left-right combination, which is an obvious thought, but then I feel - did Rishabh Pant take a sleeping pill? I will also say that it is easy for us to say this from here; we don't know if someone was not feeling well." Also read: BAN vs IND 2022: 'He is doing great job for the team...'captain KL Rahul hails star performer after series win Pujara, who won the Player-of-the-Series award, opened up on the move after the series triumph. Talking to the broadcasters, he gave an insight behind Axar's promotion and said, "It was a very good move because among their three strike bowlers, two were left-arm spinners. Axar is a left-hander, so he was sent to tackle them and to have a batter who can bat sensibly in the initial period against the Kookaburra ball. It was a crucial move for us. That was an important phase of the game where we didn't want to lose too many wickets in the evening, and he could have batted cautiously. So I was not surprised. When you are chasing a 145-run total, every run is important, and the way he batted, his innings was very valuable for us." The left-handed Axar played a cautious 69-ball 34 whereas Kohli departed for 1 during India's three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers. Shreyas Iyer's 29 not out and R Ashwin's 62-ball 42* held their nerves and took India home after they were reeling at 74-7 in the morning session of Day 4.

BAN vs IND: 'He was sent to...' - Pujara on why Axar Patel was promoted ahead of Virat Kohli in 2nd Test

<p>Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are two pillars of Indian cricket, having served it at the top level for more than a decade now.&nbsp;With both staying at the helm of things at least until the 50-over World Cup next year, India’s chances of achieving a hurray at home grow big time. Another player who would be instrumental in helping India life the trophy next year is star batter Suryakumar Yadav.</p>

<p>Speaking with PTI in an exclusive-chat Suryakumar revealed about his relationship with both Virat and Rohit, and also spoke on the approach he will undertake for the mega event.</p>

<p>India, after a gap of 12 years, will be hosting the 50-over World Cup in October-November 2023. Given the success-rate in home conditions across formats in the past decade, let alone in ODIs, India are more than likely to start as favourites this time too.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-feels-like-a-dream-to-be-seen-and-called-as-worlds-no1-t20i-batter-suryakumar-yadav-546652">'Still feels like a dream to be seen and called as world's no.1 T20I batter' – Suryakumar Yadav</a></p>

<p>However, with the Men in Blue failing to taste success at the ICC events since 2013 - when they last won the Champions Trophy,&nbsp; for them to end this drought now, a different approach needs to be adopted and Surya has something to add to this.</p>

<p>When asked about will he make any changes to his game given the change in format, Surya said, “I don't like to think too much when I am playing any format. Because I enjoy this game, whenever I go into bat, I put up a show. What I always dream and visualise is that whenever I go in; I want to be the game-changer. I have always loved batting whether it is T20Is, ODIs or Ranji Trophy. If I can do what my team wants me to do in 40-50 balls, why should I bat 100 balls?”</p>

<p>Speaking further on his relationship with two of the most important figures in Indian cricket right now – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar said, “I am actually very lucky that I share dressing room with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. They are a different breed of international cricketers. Things they have achieved, I don't know I will be ever able to achieve that.</p>

<p>Recently, I have had some good partnerships with Virat bhai and I have enjoyed batting with him. Rohit is like an elder brother and my sounding board. When I am in doubt, I ask him direct questions about my game. He has been a good guiding force since I joined MI in 2018.”</p>

<p>The number 1 batter in the&nbsp;T20Is will return to action in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are two pillars of Indian cricket, having served it at the top level for more than a decade now. With both staying at the helm of things at least until the 50-over World Cup next year, India’s chances of achieving a hurray at home grow big time.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are two pillars of Indian cricket, having served it at the top level for more than a decade now. With both staying at the helm of things at least until the 50-over World Cup next year, India’s chances of achieving a hurray at home grow big time. Another player who would be instrumental in helping India life the trophy next year is star batter Suryakumar Yadav. Speaking with PTI in an exclusive-chat Suryakumar revealed about his relationship with both Virat and Rohit, and also spoke on the approach he will undertake for the mega event. India, after a gap of 12 years, will be hosting the 50-over World Cup in October-November 2023. Given the success-rate in home conditions across formats in the past decade, let alone in ODIs, India are more than likely to start as favourites this time too. ALSO READ: 'Still feels like a dream to be seen and called as world's no.1 T20I batter' – Suryakumar Yadav However, with the Men in Blue failing to taste success at the ICC events since 2013 - when they last won the Champions Trophy, for them to end this drought now, a different approach needs to be adopted and Surya has something to add to this. When asked about will he make any changes to his game given the change in format, Surya said, “I don't like to think too much when I am playing any format. Because I enjoy this game, whenever I go into bat, I put up a show. What I always dream and visualise is that whenever I go in; I want to be the game-changer. I have always loved batting whether it is T20Is, ODIs or Ranji Trophy. If I can do what my team wants me to do in 40-50 balls, why should I bat 100 balls?” Speaking further on his relationship with two of the most important figures in Indian cricket right now – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar said, “I am actually very lucky that I share dressing room with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. They are a different breed of international cricketers. Things they have achieved, I don't know I will be ever able to achieve that. Recently, I have had some good partnerships with Virat bhai and I have enjoyed batting with him. Rohit is like an elder brother and my sounding board. When I am in doubt, I ask him direct questions about my game. He has been a good guiding force since I joined MI in 2018.” The number 1 batter in the T20Is will return to action in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand.

'He is like an elder brother to me...' - Suryakumar Yadav on his relationship with Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli

<p>Day 2 of the ongoing second and final Test between India and Bangladesh has been filled with drama and lots of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. While the day started with India losing both their openers for cheap and No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara also returning to the pavillion before the lunch break, the visitors could've lost another wicket due to a miscommunication between former skipper Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant.</p>

<p>The incident took place on the last ball before lunch with Virat on&nbsp;strike. The right-hander played a&nbsp;flick shot to mid-on and was keen on taking a single. However, Pant sent him back as Kohli somehow managed to reach the crease with a diving effort. It wasn't well received as the senior pro gave a death stare to Pant. <strong>Here's the video which has gone viral on social media platforms:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That Stare from Virat Kohli..!<br />
Damn..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsBAN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishabhPant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishabhPant</a> <a href="https://t.co/LxGsGHZ8wl">pic.twitter.com/LxGsGHZ8wl</a></p>
— Dinne Sudhakar (@Sudhakar0718) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sudhakar0718/status/1606166477232537600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/our-captain-doesnt-know-ex-pakistan-pacer-lashes-out-at-babar-azam-after-england-whitewash-545748">'Our captain doesn't know....': Ex-Pakistan pacer lashes out at Babar Azam after England whitewash</a></strong></p>

<p>After the lunch break, Kohli perished soon edging one to the keeper off Taskin Ahmed's delivery. He was&nbsp;dismissed for 24 (73), leaving India tottering at 94 for 4 after Bangladesh managed 227 all-out in 73.5 overs. Following Kohli's dismissal, India have counterattacked -- and rode on their luck -- to be well-placed at 226 for 4 courtesy of an entertaining and unbeaten 132-run fifth-wicket stand between Pant (86 not out) and Shreyas Iyer (58 not out).&nbsp;</p>

<p>With India trailing by only a run, they will rely on Pant-Iyer and their lower-order batters to take their lead beyond the 100-run mark in the final session of the day.</p>


Day 2 of the ongoing second and final Test between India and Bangladesh has been filled with drama and lots of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. While the day started with India losing both their openers for cheap and No.

Day 2 of the ongoing second and final Test between India and Bangladesh has been filled with drama and lots of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. While the day started with India losing both their openers for cheap and No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara also returning to the pavillion before the lunch break, the visitors could've lost another wicket due to a miscommunication between former skipper Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant. The incident took place on the last ball before lunch with Virat on strike. The right-hander played a flick shot to mid-on and was keen on taking a single. However, Pant sent him back as Kohli somehow managed to reach the crease with a diving effort. It wasn't well received as the senior pro gave a death stare to Pant. Here's the video which has gone viral on social media platforms: That Stare from Virat Kohli..! Damn..#INDvsBAN #ViratKohli #RishabhPant pic.twitter.com/LxGsGHZ8wl — Dinne Sudhakar (@Sudhakar0718) December 23, 2022 × Also read: 'Our captain doesn't know....': Ex-Pakistan pacer lashes out at Babar Azam after England whitewash After the lunch break, Kohli perished soon edging one to the keeper off Taskin Ahmed's delivery. He was dismissed for 24 (73), leaving India tottering at 94 for 4 after Bangladesh managed 227 all-out in 73.5 overs. Following Kohli's dismissal, India have counterattacked -- and rode on their luck -- to be well-placed at 226 for 4 courtesy of an entertaining and unbeaten 132-run fifth-wicket stand between Pant (86 not out) and Shreyas Iyer (58 not out). With India trailing by only a run, they will rely on Pant-Iyer and their lower-order batters to take their lead beyond the 100-run mark in the final session of the day.

WATCH: Virat Kohli's death stare to Rishabh Pant goes viral during Day 2 of Dhaka Test

Recently, Anushka Sharma shared a social media post by the India arm of the popular German sportswear brand as an Instagram story. The post showed the actress posing for a photo, in which she was wearing a yellow Puma sports bra and navy blue leggings.

Recently, Anushka Sharma shared a social media post by the India arm of the popular German sportswear brand as an Instagram story. The post showed the actress posing for a photo, in which she was wearing a yellow Puma sports bra and navy blue leggings. The logo was prominently visible on her chest. In the story, Anushka appeared to express outrage over the company using her photo for promoting its products without her permission. “Hey, Puma India? I’m sure you know that you have to take permission before you can use my imagery for publicity since I’m not your ambassador. Please take it down!" she wrote. Virat Kohli, India's star cricketer and Anushka's husband who is already Puma India's brand ambassador, shared the story. Also Read: Just a publicity stunt! Netizens furious over Anushka Sharma's marketing gimmick with Puma So what was that Puma-Anushka Sharma fuss all about? View this post on Instagram A post shared by PUMA India (@pumaindia) Many thought all this hullabaloo smacked of a poorly-conceived marketing gimmick, while Anushka's fans conveyed anger at Puma. Of course, the former set of people was proven right. It had to be a gimmick. It was ludicrously obvious. And indeed the next day, Puma shared a photo depicting what appeared to be a contract between the actress and the company with its contents blurred and a CONFIDENTIAL written in big, red letters. Anushka shared the post in another one of her stories, writing, "I'll sleep on it." Now, the rest of those who still thought this was a booboo on part of Puma also realised what was happening. It was not actually subtle, mind you. And no, Puma didn't quickly draw up a contract to save face. The company had already signed Anushka and this was done to garner headlines, increase brand recall, and do what every marketing campaign is supposed to do: sell more products. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) Was it an effective strategy? That is something only Puma knows or will know in the future. Having a recognised name, particularly a big celebrity like Anushka, always helps, so long as the product roughly coincides with the image of the said celebrity. And the actress is quite well-known for her fitness. And many brands have made judicious and innovative use of social media to increase awareness about their products in the recent past. So yes, at one level, it may indeed be effective. Again, it's too early to say but a cursory perusal of tweets and comments indicates that a goodly number of people are impressed by whoever cooked up the campaign. Yesterday, Anushka and Virat displayed anger on Instagram, blaming Puma for using her pictures. Today, Puma signs Anushka Sharma as her brand ambassador. I don't know if these events were genuine, but it definitely becomes a topic of discussion. Should I say, Puma 💯? pic.twitter.com/KxkpsDtu5v — Huzefa (フゼファ) (@huzefamotiwala) December 21, 2022 × And even if many are slamming the company and the actor, a popular saying will have it that any sort of publicity is good publicity. This is something most marketing experts will agree with. It is better to be notorious than unknown. The trouble is, these sorts of strategies do tend to backfire. Social media is a hard nut to crack for even veteran marketing and advertising professionals. On social media, people do not see the entire thing straight away, they are usually too busy scrolling to see the next piece of content. It is entirely possible that many saw Anushka's initial story slamming Puma, got busy with professional endeavours, and missed the rest of the drama. Those may not even be aware that it was a joke. For them, Puma is now a company that is guilty of using a celeb's image to promote its products without actually paying them. Have social media ad campaigns backfired before? Also Read: UK's Burger King under fire for 'Women belong in kitchen' tweet More than one can count. Particularly those that intend to hoodwink potential customers in some way. One famous example is Burger King, a popular fast food chain that appears to be going from one marketing fiasco to another in the last couple of decades. On 2021's International Women's Day, Burger King UK shared an advertisement in newspapers that highlighted the lack of female chefs in its restaurants. The ad began with the text "Women belong in the kitchen" before adding that the company was sponsoring a scholarship programme for women who wish to “pursue their culinary dreams” and highlighted the skewed employee sex ratio in restaurants in the UK and the US. The Burger King Foundation promised $25,000 grants to chosen female aspiring cooks/chefs under the H.E.R. (Helping Equalize Restaurants) scholarships. Remember when Burger King UK tweeted this on International Women’s Day? 💀 pic.twitter.com/3hRGYSRCnk — Jam 👊🏻 (@TheJamOfSteel) August 8, 2022 × All well and good. But the social media team of Burger King, to reproduce the campaign on that most unsubtle of social networks — Twitter — began with a tweet reading "Women belong in the kitchen" and let it all simmer for a while. While in the print, the context was hard to miss, on Twitter? Not so. Of course, it went haywire, with tweeple, even after learning what the brand had intended, excoriating the company for using a lame, old sexist joke to promote what was, essentially, a good cause. And since the tweet could stand on its own, it was shared widely without context and the company had to withdraw the tweet and issue an apology. We hear you. We got our initial tweet wrong and we’re sorry. Our aim was to draw attention to the fact that only 20% of professional chefs in UK kitchens are women and to help change that by awarding culinary scholarships. We will do better next time. — Burger King (@BurgerKingUK) March 8, 2021 × "We hear you. We got our initial tweet wrong and we’re sorry. Our aim was to draw attention to the fact that only 20% of professional chefs in UK kitchens are women and to help change that by awarding culinary scholarships. We will do better next time," said Burger King. A lesson to be learned here. Watch WION live here:

Anushka Sharma, Puma marketing ploy: Effective strategy or a failed publicity stunt?

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