Rohit Sharma was promoted as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy duties altogether by resigning as the red-ball captain early this year. Hitman, as Rohit is fondly called worldwide, has come a long way ever since his international debut in 2007. After his debut, he struggled for consistency -- despite showcasing his skills and talent in his early days -- before his fortunes changing after becoming a limited-overs opener since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Later in the same year, Rohit made his Test debut and scored two tons in his first-ever red-ball game but never managed to settle in the Test line-up in the following years.&nbsp;

Rohit's stature continued to grow in white-ball formats, where he came to his own since early 2016, he didn't play a single Test between&nbsp;October 2016 and November 2017. Moreover, his next Test century -- after his debut match -- also came in late 2017. While he was part of the South Africa Tests, in the African nation, in early 2018 and was among runs in the limited-overs series versus hosts England -- during Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s trip to the United Kingdom after a few months -- he was dropped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik recently revealed that the 2018 Test omission hit Rohit really hard.

"He had almost gone down the path where he was so successful as a white-ball cricketer. He was happy doing that. And when he did come back into the Test team, you've got to remember in 2018, he was dropped from the Test team. He was sent back after the white-ball leg and that really hurt him. Rohit Sharma did not see that coming and that really tore him to shreds," Karthik said in the docu-series Summer Stalemate on Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-opines-on-team-indias-multiple-captaincy-changes-in-2022-explains-how-it-has-been-beneficial-507450">Sourav Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial</a>

While Rohit wasn't part of India's 4-1 loss at the hands of hosts England during the 2018 English summer, his red-ball career blossomed post his staggering success in the 2019 ODI World Cup. After the mega event, then head coach Ravi Shastri backed Rohit as a Test opener and Hitman hasn't disappointed ever since. Since India's home series versus South Africa in October 2019, Rohit has scored as many as five centuries -- including a double ton and also registering his maiden triple-figure knock in the format in overseas -- along with four half-centuries.

Rohit Sharma was promoted as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy duties altogether by resigning as the red-ball captain early this year.

Rohit Sharma was promoted as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy duties altogether by resigning as the red-ball captain early this year. Hitman, as Rohit is fondly called worldwide, has come a long way ever since his international debut in 2007. After his debut, he struggled for consistency -- despite showcasing his skills and talent in his early days -- before his fortunes changing after becoming a limited-overs opener since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Later in the same year, Rohit made his Test debut and scored two tons in his first-ever red-ball game but never managed to settle in the Test line-up in the following years. Rohit's stature continued to grow in white-ball formats, where he came to his own since early 2016, he didn't play a single Test between October 2016 and November 2017. Moreover, his next Test century -- after his debut match -- also came in late 2017. While he was part of the South Africa Tests, in the African nation, in early 2018 and was among runs in the limited-overs series versus hosts England -- during Virat Kohli & Co.'s trip to the United Kingdom after a few months -- he was dropped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik recently revealed that the 2018 Test omission hit Rohit really hard. "He had almost gone down the path where he was so successful as a white-ball cricketer. He was happy doing that. And when he did come back into the Test team, you've got to remember in 2018, he was dropped from the Test team. He was sent back after the white-ball leg and that really hurt him. Rohit Sharma did not see that coming and that really tore him to shreds," Karthik said in the docu-series Summer Stalemate on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial While Rohit wasn't part of India's 4-1 loss at the hands of hosts England during the 2018 English summer, his red-ball career blossomed post his staggering success in the 2019 ODI World Cup. After the mega event, then head coach Ravi Shastri backed Rohit as a Test opener and Hitman hasn't disappointed ever since. Since India's home series versus South Africa in October 2019, Rohit has scored as many as five centuries -- including a double ton and also registering his maiden triple-figure knock in the format in overseas -- along with four half-centuries.

He did not see that coming: Dinesh Karthik recalls Rohit Sharma's low point that 'tore him to shreds'

Team India is shaping up really well, under Rohit Sharma, for the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Since last year's edition, in the UAE, India have changed their approach with the bat -- with the top-order being more aggressive in their approach -- whereas they have also been blessed with a good balance in the lower-half, especially with the return of Hardik Pandya.

Hardik, who led Gujarat Titans (GT) to IPL 2022 championship, has been firing on all cylinders ever since he made his comeback into the Indian team. He has bowled at regular intervals, accounted for key wickets, brought a sense of calm with the bat and has won games for India with his all-round blitz. Moreover, he is now also being seen as a future captain and has led with aplomb in the limited opportunities so far.&nbsp;

In an interaction with the&nbsp;Times of India, former South Africa all-rounder&nbsp;Lance Klusener lavished huge praise on Pandya and feels Team India is a different outfit in his presence. "A fast-bowling all-rounder like Hardik Pandya adds glue to any white-ball side or to any cricket team. It's so good to have him back and is getting into the form we are accustomed to. The Indian team looks a different side when Hardik Pandya is in full flow."

Klusner, who is currently Zimbabwe's batting coach,&nbsp;also feels a lowly-ranked African team will learn a lot while playing against a second-stringed Indian line-up. The Men in Blue's tour of Zimbabwe kicks off on August 18.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-wasnt-aggressive-under-kohli-but-players-attack-under-rohits-captaincy-feels-aakash-chopra-507368">Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra</a>

In this regard, the former cricketer added, "It will be a great learning curve for a team like Zimbabwe to play against a top side like India. It's a good challenge for us and an opportunity for our players to learn and grow."

India will play Zimbabwe in a bilateral series for the first time since 2016&nbsp;as both teams will lock horns in three ODIs, commencing on August 18. KL Rahul will lead Team India -- who will be without regular captain Rohit, Hardik, Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, etc. -- whereas Shikhar Dhawan will serve as his deputy.

Team India is shaping up really well, under Rohit Sharma, for the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Since last year's edition, in the UAE, India have changed their approach with the bat -- with the top-order being more aggressive in their approach -- whereas they have also been blessed with a good balance in the lower-half, especially with the return of Hardik Pandya.

Team India is shaping up really well, under Rohit Sharma, for the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Since last year's edition, in the UAE, India have changed their approach with the bat -- with the top-order being more aggressive in their approach -- whereas they have also been blessed with a good balance in the lower-half, especially with the return of Hardik Pandya. Hardik, who led Gujarat Titans (GT) to IPL 2022 championship, has been firing on all cylinders ever since he made his comeback into the Indian team. He has bowled at regular intervals, accounted for key wickets, brought a sense of calm with the bat and has won games for India with his all-round blitz. Moreover, he is now also being seen as a future captain and has led with aplomb in the limited opportunities so far. In an interaction with the Times of India, former South Africa all-rounder Lance Klusener lavished huge praise on Pandya and feels Team India is a different outfit in his presence. "A fast-bowling all-rounder like Hardik Pandya adds glue to any white-ball side or to any cricket team. It's so good to have him back and is getting into the form we are accustomed to. The Indian team looks a different side when Hardik Pandya is in full flow." Klusner, who is currently Zimbabwe's batting coach, also feels a lowly-ranked African team will learn a lot while playing against a second-stringed Indian line-up. The Men in Blue's tour of Zimbabwe kicks off on August 18. ALSO READ | Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra In this regard, the former cricketer added, "It will be a great learning curve for a team like Zimbabwe to play against a top side like India. It's a good challenge for us and an opportunity for our players to learn and grow." India will play Zimbabwe in a bilateral series for the first time since 2016 as both teams will lock horns in three ODIs, commencing on August 18. KL Rahul will lead Team India -- who will be without regular captain Rohit, Hardik, Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, etc. -- whereas Shikhar Dhawan will serve as his deputy.

'Team India looks a different side when he is in full flow': Lance Klusner lauds Men in Blue's star player

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently compared the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and current Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. Rohit took over from Virat in T20Is soon after his resignation post the 2021 T20 World Cup, took over as ODI captain post his predecessor Kohli's sacking and was also named the Test captain early this year, after Virat gave up captaincy duties altogether.

Since then, Rohit-led India have done well in the limited-overs format and are gearing up for the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be followed by the T20 World Cup in October-November in Australia. Under Kohli, India did achieve a lot of success across formats -- despite not winning an ICC title -- and were an aggressive unit. However, Chopra made an interesting claim by saying that players under Rohit are far from attacking in their approach.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli's big focus was - 'I want to do this.' It was a lot about wanting to set an example. Virat Kohli was very very aggressive on the field, in your face, never taking a backward step, but the team was not that aggressive under Virat Kohli," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. "That's a very interesting bit that he was himself very aggressive but the team was not aggressive. There could be multiple reasons for that. He talked about intent many times but we saw [Cheteshwar] Pujara getting run out twice in one match. So the 'intent' word was perhaps not understood correctly," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/let-him-practice-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-ahead-of-asia-cup-2022-507186">'Let him practice': BCCI president Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's lean patch ahead of Asia Cup 2022</a>

Meanwhile, Chopra opined that Rohit might not seem to be that aggressive and animated, however, the team plays with a lot of freedom and aggression in his leadership. "Rohit Sharma is a very interesting character as a captain. The one thing I like about him a lot is that when you meet Rohit Sharma or see him on the ground, he doesn't look animated but the team that plays under him attacks," Chopra opined.

"We have seen that they play with freedom or you can say aggression. The main reason for that is he gives confidence to the team, that they have made a philosophy, they will play according to that, and that he is standing behind the players and will not let them get dropped," he further asserted.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently compared the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and current Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. Rohit took over from Virat in T20Is soon after his resignation post the 2021 T20 World Cup, took over as ODI captain post his predecessor Kohli's sacking and was also named the Test captain early this year, after Virat gave up captaincy duties altogether.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently compared the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and current Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. Rohit took over from Virat in T20Is soon after his resignation post the 2021 T20 World Cup, took over as ODI captain post his predecessor Kohli's sacking and was also named the Test captain early this year, after Virat gave up captaincy duties altogether. Since then, Rohit-led India have done well in the limited-overs format and are gearing up for the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be followed by the T20 World Cup in October-November in Australia. Under Kohli, India did achieve a lot of success across formats -- despite not winning an ICC title -- and were an aggressive unit. However, Chopra made an interesting claim by saying that players under Rohit are far from attacking in their approach. "Virat Kohli's big focus was - 'I want to do this.' It was a lot about wanting to set an example. Virat Kohli was very very aggressive on the field, in your face, never taking a backward step, but the team was not that aggressive under Virat Kohli," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. "That's a very interesting bit that he was himself very aggressive but the team was not aggressive. There could be multiple reasons for that. He talked about intent many times but we saw [Cheteshwar] Pujara getting run out twice in one match. So the 'intent' word was perhaps not understood correctly," he added. ALSO READ | 'Let him practice': BCCI president Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's lean patch ahead of Asia Cup 2022 Meanwhile, Chopra opined that Rohit might not seem to be that aggressive and animated, however, the team plays with a lot of freedom and aggression in his leadership. "Rohit Sharma is a very interesting character as a captain. The one thing I like about him a lot is that when you meet Rohit Sharma or see him on the ground, he doesn't look animated but the team that plays under him attacks," Chopra opined. "We have seen that they play with freedom or you can say aggression. The main reason for that is he gives confidence to the team, that they have made a philosophy, they will play according to that, and that he is standing behind the players and will not let them get dropped," he further asserted.

Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra

On Monday (August 15), India is celebrating 75 years&nbsp;of Independence from the British Raj. The country had attained freedom on August 15, 1947 (it is the 75th anniversary of India's&nbsp;independence, but it is still the 76th Independence Day). Each year,&nbsp;the landmark day is celebrated with full enthusiasm across the nation.&nbsp;

As India have dived deep into celebrations and are recalling their freedom fighters who fought for the country, sporting fraternity members have taken to their official Twitter handles to pour wishes&nbsp;on a historic day. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Sania Mirza, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu and many others have joined the bandwagon in wishing the countrymen on Monday morning. Here are some of the reactions from the country's superstar athletes:

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75 glorious years. Proud to be an Indian. Happy Independence Day to all. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1559039801671618560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-76th-independence-day-celebrations-everything-pm-modi-said-in-his-speech-506947">India's 76th Independence Day celebrations: Everything PM Modi said in his speech</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewProfilePic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewProfilePic</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXgvSv41Vo">pic.twitter.com/RXgvSv41Vo</a>
— zaheer khan (@ImZaheer) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImZaheer/status/1558960773082357760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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न पूछो ज़माने को के क्या मेरी कहानी है, हमारी पहचान तो बस इतनी है कि हम हिंदुस्तानी है | 
 
हर करम अपना करेंगे ए वतन तेरे लिए दिल दिया है…जां भी देंगे ऐ वतन तेरे लिए!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#स्वतंत्रतादिवस</a> की आप सभी को अनेक शुभकामनाएँ । <a href="https://t.co/lBu7IC0xqe">pic.twitter.com/lBu7IC0xqe</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1559017745462611968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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75 years of independence. स्वतंत्रता दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/5KlQA3Y87d">pic.twitter.com/5KlQA3Y87d</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1559050172532916229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1558774490683023360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-is-indian-flag-unfurled-or-hoisted-on-independence-day-whats-the-difference-506751">Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference?</a>

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Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳 75 glorious years .. <a href="https://t.co/zNcsNSpA9V">pic.twitter.com/zNcsNSpA9V</a>
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1558953816606777344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Thousands laid down their lives 
so that our country breaths this day. 
never forget their sacrifice. 
Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/harghartiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#harghartiranga</a>🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarGharTiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarGharTiranga</a> <a href="https://t.co/N8YGoBCZ8U">pic.twitter.com/N8YGoBCZ8U</a>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1559032803269832706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Playing for India was a dream and also a huge responsibility to give my best for the nation. It was a proud feeling that I'll always cherish. As our nation completes 75 years of independence, let's strive harder to reach new heights. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/M6EVisDeLW">pic.twitter.com/M6EVisDeLW</a>
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Raj03/status/1559047270674616320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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May the glory of our Nation live forever! Wishing love, peace and prosperity to everyone on the occasion of Independence Day. 
Proud to be an Indian. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://t.co/pyxolNVCDr">pic.twitter.com/pyxolNVCDr</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1559029008087629825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा 
हम बुलबुलें हैं इस की ये गुलसिताँ हमारा! 
 
Happy Independence day to my fellow Indians all around the world 🇮🇳 😊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/jaaMV4hq1X">pic.twitter.com/jaaMV4hq1X</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1559010216166846465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Happy Independence Day to all. 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/eaEQjfdTK6">pic.twitter.com/eaEQjfdTK6</a>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1559028971618041857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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सभी देशवासियों को <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#स्वतंत्रतादिवस</a> की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद जय भारत ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hargharTiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hargharTiranga</a> <a href="https://t.co/QgC3JHbrA4">pic.twitter.com/QgC3JHbrA4</a>
— Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1559015700995383296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On the historic occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort, New Delhi on Monday morning. In addition, he&nbsp;paid tributes to freedom fighters such as Tatya Tope, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan who fought hard to free the country from the Britishers.&nbsp;

PM Modi&nbsp;also saluted the soldiers, police forces as well as the citizens and said in his speech, "There were problems of food security, war, terrorism, natural calamities but India marched forward against all odds. Our nation has proved we have inherent strength coming from our diversity. My understanding of spirit of India made me realise that for New India we needed to ensure inclusive development." He added, "Any nation that has progressed, has discipline ingrained in its citizens; if all follow their responsibilities, India will grow fast."

On Monday (August 15), India is celebrating 75 years of Independence from the British Raj. The country had attained freedom on August 15, 1947 (it is the 75th anniversary of India's independence, but it is still the 76th Independence Day).

On Monday (August 15), India is celebrating 75 years of Independence from the British Raj. The country had attained freedom on August 15, 1947 (it is the 75th anniversary of India's independence, but it is still the 76th Independence Day). Each year, the landmark day is celebrated with full enthusiasm across the nation. As India have dived deep into celebrations and are recalling their freedom fighters who fought for the country, sporting fraternity members have taken to their official Twitter handles to pour wishes on a historic day. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Sania Mirza, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu and many others have joined the bandwagon in wishing the countrymen on Monday morning. Here are some of the reactions from the country's superstar athletes: 75 glorious years. Proud to be an Indian. Happy Independence Day to all. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | India's 76th Independence Day celebrations: Everything PM Modi said in his speech #NewProfilePic pic.twitter.com/RXgvSv41Vo — zaheer khan (@ImZaheer) August 14, 2022 × न पूछो ज़माने को के क्या मेरी कहानी है, हमारी पहचान तो बस इतनी है कि हम हिंदुस्तानी है | हर करम अपना करेंगे ए वतन तेरे लिए दिल दिया है…जां भी देंगे ऐ वतन तेरे लिए!! #स्वतंत्रतादिवस की आप सभी को अनेक शुभकामनाएँ । pic.twitter.com/lBu7IC0xqe — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 15, 2022 × 75 years of independence. स्वतंत्रता दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/5KlQA3Y87d — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) August 15, 2022 × #NewProfilePic pic.twitter.com/SvOvuIvm55 — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference? Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳 75 glorious years .. pic.twitter.com/zNcsNSpA9V — Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) August 14, 2022 × Thousands laid down their lives so that our country breaths this day. never forget their sacrifice. Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳🇮🇳#harghartiranga🇮🇳 #HarGharTiranga pic.twitter.com/N8YGoBCZ8U — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) August 15, 2022 × Playing for India was a dream and also a huge responsibility to give my best for the nation. It was a proud feeling that I'll always cherish. As our nation completes 75 years of independence, let's strive harder to reach new heights. #IndiaAt75 #IndependenceDay2022 pic.twitter.com/M6EVisDeLW — Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) August 15, 2022 × May the glory of our Nation live forever! Wishing love, peace and prosperity to everyone on the occasion of Independence Day. Proud to be an Indian. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳#IndependenceDay2022 #IndiaAt75 pic.twitter.com/pyxolNVCDr — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) August 15, 2022 × सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा हम बुलबुलें हैं इस की ये गुलसिताँ हमारा! Happy Independence day to my fellow Indians all around the world 🇮🇳 😊 #IndependenceDay2022 pic.twitter.com/jaaMV4hq1X — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) August 15, 2022 × Happy Independence Day to all. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/eaEQjfdTK6 — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 15, 2022 × सभी देशवासियों को #स्वतंत्रतादिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद जय भारत ! #hargharTiranga pic.twitter.com/QgC3JHbrA4 — Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) August 15, 2022 × On the historic occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort, New Delhi on Monday morning. In addition, he paid tributes to freedom fighters such as Tatya Tope, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan who fought hard to free the country from the Britishers. PM Modi also saluted the soldiers, police forces as well as the citizens and said in his speech, "There were problems of food security, war, terrorism, natural calamities but India marched forward against all odds. Our nation has proved we have inherent strength coming from our diversity. My understanding of spirit of India made me realise that for New India we needed to ensure inclusive development." He added, "Any nation that has progressed, has discipline ingrained in its citizens; if all follow their responsibilities, India will grow fast."

From Virat Kohli to Mirabai Chanu: Sporting icons wish countrymen on India's Independence Day

Senior batter Virat Kohli's form is a huge concern for the Indian team ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE. The premier tournament is all set to get underway on August 27 with India locking horns with Pakistan in a marquee clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28.

Kohli, who is currently on a break, will return to action for the Men in Blue in the tournament and will be hoping to bounce back to form. Kohli has endured a lean patch in international cricket for a while now and has&nbsp;not scored a century for the Indian team for almost three years now.

Kohli was last seen in action for the Indian team during their tour of England earlier this year. He had a disastrous run with the willow as the former India skipper flopped across all three formats of the game.

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Amid his poor form, Board Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has backed the senior batter to roar back to form. Ganguly urged Kohli to practice more and play more matches while expressing confidence in his abilities.

“Let him practice, let him play matches. He is a big player and has scored plenty of runs. I am hopeful that he will make a comeback. He is just not being able to score a century and I believe he will find his form in the Asia Cup,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by India Today.&nbsp;

Kohli has been a prolific run-getter in the Asia Cup over the years, averaging over 60 in the tournament. The former India skipper had missed the last edition of the tournament in 2018 when Rohit Sharma led India to a memorable title triumph after a win over Bangladesh in the final.

India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan and will be hoping to get off to a winning start. The Men in Blue had lost against Pakistan in the last meeting between the two sides at the T20 World Cup 2021 last year and will be hopeful of avenging their defeat this time around.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravindra-jadeja-likely-to-leave-csk-as-all-rounder-has-been-completely-out-of-touch-with-franchise-report-507117">Ravindra Jadeja likely to leave CSK as all-rounder has been 'completely out of touch' with franchise - Report</a>

While the players will undoubtedly be under massive pressure in the high-profile clash, Ganguly believes the much-awaited encounter should be seen as just another game.

"I am seeing it as the Asia Cup. I do do not see any tournament as India vs Pakistan. When I used to be in my playing days, India vs Pakistan was just another match for me. I always looked to win the tournament," said the former India captain.

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Senior batter Virat Kohli's form is a huge concern for the Indian team ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE. The premier tournament is all set to get underway on August 27 with India locking horns with Pakistan in a marquee clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28.

Senior batter Virat Kohli's form is a huge concern for the Indian team ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE. The premier tournament is all set to get underway on August 27 with India locking horns with Pakistan in a marquee clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28. Kohli, who is currently on a break, will return to action for the Men in Blue in the tournament and will be hoping to bounce back to form. Kohli has endured a lean patch in international cricket for a while now and has not scored a century for the Indian team for almost three years now. Kohli was last seen in action for the Indian team during their tour of England earlier this year. He had a disastrous run with the willow as the former India skipper flopped across all three formats of the game. Also Read: 'You're going to Mumbai?' - Harbhajan recalls his response to Akhtar's request for CWC'11 final tickets Amid his poor form, Board Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has backed the senior batter to roar back to form. Ganguly urged Kohli to practice more and play more matches while expressing confidence in his abilities. “Let him practice, let him play matches. He is a big player and has scored plenty of runs. I am hopeful that he will make a comeback. He is just not being able to score a century and I believe he will find his form in the Asia Cup,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by India Today. Kohli has been a prolific run-getter in the Asia Cup over the years, averaging over 60 in the tournament. The former India skipper had missed the last edition of the tournament in 2018 when Rohit Sharma led India to a memorable title triumph after a win over Bangladesh in the final. India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan and will be hoping to get off to a winning start. The Men in Blue had lost against Pakistan in the last meeting between the two sides at the T20 World Cup 2021 last year and will be hopeful of avenging their defeat this time around. Also Read: Ravindra Jadeja likely to leave CSK as all-rounder has been 'completely out of touch' with franchise - Report While the players will undoubtedly be under massive pressure in the high-profile clash, Ganguly believes the much-awaited encounter should be seen as just another game. "I am seeing it as the Asia Cup. I do do not see any tournament as India vs Pakistan. When I used to be in my playing days, India vs Pakistan was just another match for me. I always looked to win the tournament," said the former India captain.

'Let him practice': BCCI president Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's lean patch ahead of Asia Cup 2022

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Both India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and await another team from the qualifiers, as the two Asian giants will lock horns on August 28 before two more possible face-offs, in the Super Four round and the finale.

Ahead of the showpiece event, which will be held after 2018, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt shared his take on whether Rohit Sharma-led India will start as favourites for the Asian championship. The Men in Blue won the last two editions. India had won the 2016 edition, played in the T20I format, and also clinched the 2018 championship which was held in the 50-over format. This time around, the competition will again be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November in Australia).

Answering a question on his&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;channel about whether India start as a favourite, Butt stated,&nbsp;"They definitely can." He jokingly&nbsp;added,&nbsp;"Do they lack vitamins?”

“Any of the competing teams can win. Realistically, India have been playing really well. They have a big pool of players, and most of the guys have gained international experience. That’s why people are terming them favorites," Butt further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-rishabh-pant-reacts-on-stiff-competition-with-dinesh-karthik-for-t20-world-cup-spot-507097">'We don't...' - Rishabh Pant reacts on stiff competition with Dinesh Karthik for T20 World Cup spot</a>

“There is Pakistan. Everybody knows that, on their day, they can beat anybody. T20 cricket is such a format where one good partnership can decide the fate of the game. It all depends on the day. Afghanistan are also a dark horse. Bangladesh, sometimes, plays very good cricket, but on other days they are very bad," the ex-Pakistani opener added.

Talking about India's chances, they comprehensively&nbsp;won bilateral series versus New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka before drawing a five-match T20I series versus South Africa -- all in home conditions -- beating&nbsp;England and West Indies in their own backyards since the 2021 T20 World Cup. Thus, they will certainly start as favourites for Asia Cup.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Both India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and await another team from the qualifiers, as the two Asian giants will lock horns on August 28 before two more possible face-offs, in the Super Four round and the finale.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Both India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and await another team from the qualifiers, as the two Asian giants will lock horns on August 28 before two more possible face-offs, in the Super Four round and the finale. Ahead of the showpiece event, which will be held after 2018, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt shared his take on whether Rohit Sharma-led India will start as favourites for the Asian championship. The Men in Blue won the last two editions. India had won the 2016 edition, played in the T20I format, and also clinched the 2018 championship which was held in the 50-over format. This time around, the competition will again be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November in Australia). Answering a question on his YouTube channel about whether India start as a favourite, Butt stated, "They definitely can." He jokingly added, "Do they lack vitamins?” “Any of the competing teams can win. Realistically, India have been playing really well. They have a big pool of players, and most of the guys have gained international experience. That’s why people are terming them favorites," Butt further asserted. ALSO READ | 'We don't...' - Rishabh Pant reacts on stiff competition with Dinesh Karthik for T20 World Cup spot “There is Pakistan. Everybody knows that, on their day, they can beat anybody. T20 cricket is such a format where one good partnership can decide the fate of the game. It all depends on the day. Afghanistan are also a dark horse. Bangladesh, sometimes, plays very good cricket, but on other days they are very bad," the ex-Pakistani opener added. Talking about India's chances, they comprehensively won bilateral series versus New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka before drawing a five-match T20I series versus South Africa -- all in home conditions -- beating England and West Indies in their own backyards since the 2021 T20 World Cup. Thus, they will certainly start as favourites for Asia Cup.

Is Team India favourites for Asia Cup 2022? Former Pakistan captain shares his take

India are all set to lock horns with Pakistan in a marque clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway later this month. India have dominated their arch-rivals over the years in the premier competition and will be aiming to continue their&nbsp;stellar run against the Men in Green when they meet in Dubai on August 28.

The last meeting between the arch-rivals saw Babar Azam-led Pakistan thrash India by ten wickets at the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE to bring an end to their 29-year-long wait for their first win in a World Cup encounter against the Men in Blue. Pakistan had lost 12 matches against India in ODI and T20 World Cups before registering their maiden win last year.

Ahead of the high-profile Asia Cup clash between the two cricketing giants, former Pakistan pacer Aaqb Javed has explained why Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will be favourites to win against the Men in Green. Analysing the strengths and weaknesses of the two teams, Javed said India will hold an edge over Pakistan due to their experienced batting line-up.

“The difference between the two teams lies in their batting. India's batting is still more experienced. If a batter like Rohit Sharma clicks, he can single-handedly win the match for India. Similarly with Fakhar Zaman," Javed said on Paktv.tv.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-laughing-former-rajasthan-royals-star-ross-taylor-shockingly-reveals-he-was-slapped-by-an-owner-506566">'He was laughing'- Former Rajasthan Royals star Ross Taylor shockingly reveals he was slapped by owner</a>

The former Pakistan pacer also pointed out how Babar &amp; Co. still don't have a quality pace bowling all-rounder like Hardik Pandya, who can be the difference between the two teams in the blockbuster clash. Hardik has been in fine form with the bat and ball ever since making his comeback for India earlier this year.

"If he plays with control, he can win the match for Pakistan. But the middle-order line-up of India and Pakistan, that's the difference. Also their all-rounder, that makes a difference. Because Pakistan does not have a Hardik Pandya like all-rounder,” Javed explained.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/technically-sound-babar-azam-wont-have-rough-patch-as-long-as-virat-kohli-ex-pakistan-pacers-big-claim-506512">Technically sound Babar Azam won't have rough patch as long as Virat Kohli: Ex-Pakistan pacer's big claim</a>

India will be hoping to get off to a winning start and&nbsp;avenge their T20 World Cup 2021 defeat when they take on&nbsp;Pakistan in Dubai on August 28. India will be heading into the Asia Cup 2022 as defending champions having won the last edition of the tournament under Rohit's captaincy in 2018.

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India are all set to lock horns with Pakistan in a marque clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway later this month. India have dominated their arch-rivals over the years in the premier competition and will be aiming to continue their stellar run against the Men in Green when they meet in Dubai on August 28.

India are all set to lock horns with Pakistan in a marque clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway later this month. India have dominated their arch-rivals over the years in the premier competition and will be aiming to continue their stellar run against the Men in Green when they meet in Dubai on August 28. The last meeting between the arch-rivals saw Babar Azam-led Pakistan thrash India by ten wickets at the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE to bring an end to their 29-year-long wait for their first win in a World Cup encounter against the Men in Blue. Pakistan had lost 12 matches against India in ODI and T20 World Cups before registering their maiden win last year. Ahead of the high-profile Asia Cup clash between the two cricketing giants, former Pakistan pacer Aaqb Javed has explained why Rohit Sharma & Co. will be favourites to win against the Men in Green. Analysing the strengths and weaknesses of the two teams, Javed said India will hold an edge over Pakistan due to their experienced batting line-up. “The difference between the two teams lies in their batting. India's batting is still more experienced. If a batter like Rohit Sharma clicks, he can single-handedly win the match for India. Similarly with Fakhar Zaman," Javed said on Paktv.tv. Also Read: 'He was laughing'- Former Rajasthan Royals star Ross Taylor shockingly reveals he was slapped by owner The former Pakistan pacer also pointed out how Babar & Co. still don't have a quality pace bowling all-rounder like Hardik Pandya, who can be the difference between the two teams in the blockbuster clash. Hardik has been in fine form with the bat and ball ever since making his comeback for India earlier this year. "If he plays with control, he can win the match for Pakistan. But the middle-order line-up of India and Pakistan, that's the difference. Also their all-rounder, that makes a difference. Because Pakistan does not have a Hardik Pandya like all-rounder,” Javed explained. Also Read: Technically sound Babar Azam won't have rough patch as long as Virat Kohli: Ex-Pakistan pacer's big claim India will be hoping to get off to a winning start and avenge their T20 World Cup 2021 defeat when they take on Pakistan in Dubai on August 28. India will be heading into the Asia Cup 2022 as defending champions having won the last edition of the tournament under Rohit's captaincy in 2018.

Former Pakistan pacer explains why India are favourites against Babar Azam & Co. at Asia Cup 2022

Team India superstar Virat Kohli has been struggling with the willow for quite a while now and has been on the receiving end of intense criticism from former cricketers and experts amid his woeful form. Kohli, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of the generation, has not scored an international century for almost three years now and has failed to score runs consistently.

Kohli has been one of the most consistent batters across formats in the past decade but his recent slump in form has seen many raise questions over his spot in India's T20I squad ahead of the T20 World Cup. His failure to bounce back despite being backed by the team management has also been criticised by many.

However, Zimbabwe batter Sikandar Raza has backed Kohli to roar back to form soon and lauded the senior India batter for the contributions he has made to world cricket. Raza said the way Kohli has popularised fitness as the way forward in cricket and has been consistent across all three formats is commendable.

"As much as cricket was all about fitness and xyz, the way he took that part forward for the younger generations to follow, I think that is commendable and people should give him enough credit for that. I feel like he is the ultimate all-format player and that has nothing to do with stats, what he has achieved, what he is going through, and what is he going to achieve; I am just speaking in general," Raza said on Anis Sajan's YouTube channel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-pacer-explains-why-india-are-favourites-against-babar-co-at-asia-cup-2022-506676">Former Pakistan pacer explains why India are favourites against Babar Azam &amp; Co. at Asia Cup 2022</a>

When asked what advice would he like to give Kohli, who didn't enjoy the best of outings with the nat in India's recently-concluded tour of England, Raza said he is not knowledgeable enough to advise a guy with over 20,000 runs in international cricket. Raza asked Kohli's critics to leave him alone and let him regain his touch.

"I don't think I am knowledgeable enough or experienced enough to give a guy advice who has over 20,000 career runs. What do I tell him? I can't tell him anything. If anything, I can stay silent and also reckon people to do the same and let the guy live in peace. Just leave him alone and hopefully, he will soon find his feet," Raza added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-laughing-former-rajasthan-royals-star-ross-taylor-shockingly-reveals-he-was-slapped-by-an-owner-506566">'He was laughing'- Former Rajasthan Royals star Ross Taylor shockingly reveals he was slapped by owner</a>

Raza will be in action for Zimbabwe in their upcoming three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe which gets underway from August 18. Kohli is not part of India's squad as he has been rested for the series and will return to action in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

Team India superstar Virat Kohli has been struggling with the willow for quite a while now and has been on the receiving end of intense criticism from former cricketers and experts amid his woeful form.

Team India superstar Virat Kohli has been struggling with the willow for quite a while now and has been on the receiving end of intense criticism from former cricketers and experts amid his woeful form. Kohli, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of the generation, has not scored an international century for almost three years now and has failed to score runs consistently. Kohli has been one of the most consistent batters across formats in the past decade but his recent slump in form has seen many raise questions over his spot in India's T20I squad ahead of the T20 World Cup. His failure to bounce back despite being backed by the team management has also been criticised by many. However, Zimbabwe batter Sikandar Raza has backed Kohli to roar back to form soon and lauded the senior India batter for the contributions he has made to world cricket. Raza said the way Kohli has popularised fitness as the way forward in cricket and has been consistent across all three formats is commendable. "As much as cricket was all about fitness and xyz, the way he took that part forward for the younger generations to follow, I think that is commendable and people should give him enough credit for that. I feel like he is the ultimate all-format player and that has nothing to do with stats, what he has achieved, what he is going through, and what is he going to achieve; I am just speaking in general," Raza said on Anis Sajan's YouTube channel. Also Read: Former Pakistan pacer explains why India are favourites against Babar Azam & Co. at Asia Cup 2022 When asked what advice would he like to give Kohli, who didn't enjoy the best of outings with the nat in India's recently-concluded tour of England, Raza said he is not knowledgeable enough to advise a guy with over 20,000 runs in international cricket. Raza asked Kohli's critics to leave him alone and let him regain his touch. "I don't think I am knowledgeable enough or experienced enough to give a guy advice who has over 20,000 career runs. What do I tell him? I can't tell him anything. If anything, I can stay silent and also reckon people to do the same and let the guy live in peace. Just leave him alone and hopefully, he will soon find his feet," Raza added. Also Read: 'He was laughing'- Former Rajasthan Royals star Ross Taylor shockingly reveals he was slapped by owner Raza will be in action for Zimbabwe in their upcoming three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe which gets underway from August 18. Kohli is not part of India's squad as he has been rested for the series and will return to action in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

'Let the guy live in peace': Zimbabwe star backs Virat Kohli amid his woeful form for Team India

Virat Kohli's form remains a hot topic of discussion in the cricketing fraternity. The former Indian captain hasn't scored an international hundred since late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, and had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 whereas returned without a single half-century under his belt during India's tour of England.

While Kohli is gearing up for his return to international cricket, as he was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, ahead of the Asia Cup, former Pakistan pacer Aaquib Javed has made a big claim. The ex-speedster feels Pakistan's batting sensation and captain Babar Azam, who is often compared to Kohli, won't have a rough patch as long as the Indian star batter.

“There are two types of great players. One who, if they get stuck, their rough patch continues for a long time. The others are technically-sound players, whose rough patch cannot continue that long, like Babar Azam, Kane Williamson, Joe Root. It is difficult to find their weakness. Kohli gets stuck at times with those deliveries outside off stump. James Anderson has targetted that a million times," said Javed while speaking&nbsp;on Paktv.tv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/making-him-captain-or-ex-india-stumper-on-rahul-replacing-dhawan-as-skipper-for-zimbabwe-tour-506419">'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour</a>

“If Kohli doesn't perform, and India lose, they also face a similar situation like us. Then questions tend to arise that why didn't they play an in-form Deepak Hooda. But in UAE pitches, even out-of-form batters tend to find rhythm,” Javed added.

Both Kohli and Babar will face each other in the upcoming India-Pakistan clash, on August 28, in Asia Cup 2022 edition. The mega event will&nbsp;be held&nbsp;in the UAE from August 27 to September 11. The competition will be held in the T20I format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.

Virat Kohli's form remains a hot topic of discussion in the cricketing fraternity. The former Indian captain hasn't scored an international hundred since late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, and had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 whereas returned without a single half-century under his belt during India's tour of England.

Virat Kohli's form remains a hot topic of discussion in the cricketing fraternity. The former Indian captain hasn't scored an international hundred since late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, and had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 whereas returned without a single half-century under his belt during India's tour of England. While Kohli is gearing up for his return to international cricket, as he was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, ahead of the Asia Cup, former Pakistan pacer Aaquib Javed has made a big claim. The ex-speedster feels Pakistan's batting sensation and captain Babar Azam, who is often compared to Kohli, won't have a rough patch as long as the Indian star batter. “There are two types of great players. One who, if they get stuck, their rough patch continues for a long time. The others are technically-sound players, whose rough patch cannot continue that long, like Babar Azam, Kane Williamson, Joe Root. It is difficult to find their weakness. Kohli gets stuck at times with those deliveries outside off stump. James Anderson has targetted that a million times," said Javed while speaking on Paktv.tv. ALSO READ | 'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour “If Kohli doesn't perform, and India lose, they also face a similar situation like us. Then questions tend to arise that why didn't they play an in-form Deepak Hooda. But in UAE pitches, even out-of-form batters tend to find rhythm,” Javed added. Both Kohli and Babar will face each other in the upcoming India-Pakistan clash, on August 28, in Asia Cup 2022 edition. The mega event will be held in the UAE from August 27 to September 11. The competition will be held in the T20I format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.

Technically sound Babar Azam won't have rough patch as long as Virat Kohli: Ex-Pakistan pacer's big claim

India and Pakistan are gearing up to resume their&nbsp;rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip as both sides will meet each other in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The forthcoming edition will be held in the UAE in the shortest format (for the second time in the tournament history) as India and Pakistan will play their respective opening game versus each other, in Dubai, on August 28.

There's a lot of hype regarding the upcoming India-Pakistan clash. Moreover, the upcoming Asia Cup season can see the two Asian giants clash with each other on as many as three occasions. India and Pakistan are very likely to meet in the Super Four round and can also end up locking horns in the summit clash, which will be the first-ever finale featuring both teams in the tournament history.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-will-pakistan-make-it-3-0-vs-india-on-facing-them-thrice-babar-azam-answers-journalists-query-506167">Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query</a>

Ahead of the 2022 Asian championship, let us recall former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir and veteran Pakistan keeper-batter Kamran Akmal's ugly spat during the 2010 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. In a tight contest, in Dambulla, Shahid Afridi-led Men in Green rode on Salman Butt's 74 and Kamran's 51&nbsp;to post&nbsp;267&nbsp;all-out in 49.3 overs.&nbsp;

In reply, Gambhir's 83, then Indian skipper MS Dhoni's 56, Suresh Raina's 27-ball 34 and Harbhajan Singh's 11-ball 15 not out propelled India to a stunning three-wicket win. However, there was a lot of action and drama during India's tense run-chase. At the time of Dhoni-Gambhir's 98-run third-wicket stand, the latter and Kamran got involved in a heated exchange following a caught-behind appeal from the Pakistani stumper. Here's the video:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-missing-out-on-asia-cup-jasprit-bumrah-could-also-be-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-report-506108">After missing out on Asia Cup, Jasprit Bumrah could also be ruled out of T20 World Cup: Report</a>

In an interview with Vikram Sathaye, Gambhir had spilled the beans on the incident and told, "It happened in the heat of the moment. When India and Pakistan play each other then obviously it is a tense game."

“Good or a bad thing you can say but whatever arguments happened between us was during the drinks break. Instead of showing advertisements during the break Neo channel opted to show our heated arguments," the former southpaw revealed.

On being asked the main reason behind the heated exchange,&nbsp;Gambhir&nbsp;replied, "I had tried to play and missed it fully. He appealed in such a way that he thought that the ball hit the bat. Then I told him that there is no point in appealing because nothing like that happened, we just got into a heated argument and then it just got from bad to worse."

During the epic face-off between the two players,&nbsp;few more Pakistani players had jumped in before the umpires and Dhoni separated Kamran and Gambhir, respectively. In the end overs, Harbhajan-Shoaib Akhtar also had a war of words.

Dhoni-led India won the Asia Cup in 2010, beating hosts Sri Lanka by 81 runs in the final.

India and Pakistan are gearing up to resume their rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip as both sides will meet each other in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The forthcoming edition will be held in the UAE in the shortest format (for the second time in the tournament history) as India and Pakistan will play their respective opening game versus each other, in Dubai, on August 28.

India and Pakistan are gearing up to resume their rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip as both sides will meet each other in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The forthcoming edition will be held in the UAE in the shortest format (for the second time in the tournament history) as India and Pakistan will play their respective opening game versus each other, in Dubai, on August 28. There's a lot of hype regarding the upcoming India-Pakistan clash. Moreover, the upcoming Asia Cup season can see the two Asian giants clash with each other on as many as three occasions. India and Pakistan are very likely to meet in the Super Four round and can also end up locking horns in the summit clash, which will be the first-ever finale featuring both teams in the tournament history. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query Ahead of the 2022 Asian championship, let us recall former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir and veteran Pakistan keeper-batter Kamran Akmal's ugly spat during the 2010 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. In a tight contest, in Dambulla, Shahid Afridi-led Men in Green rode on Salman Butt's 74 and Kamran's 51 to post 267 all-out in 49.3 overs. In reply, Gambhir's 83, then Indian skipper MS Dhoni's 56, Suresh Raina's 27-ball 34 and Harbhajan Singh's 11-ball 15 not out propelled India to a stunning three-wicket win. However, there was a lot of action and drama during India's tense run-chase. At the time of Dhoni-Gambhir's 98-run third-wicket stand, the latter and Kamran got involved in a heated exchange following a caught-behind appeal from the Pakistani stumper. Here's the video: × ALSO READ | After missing out on Asia Cup, Jasprit Bumrah could also be ruled out of T20 World Cup: Report In an interview with Vikram Sathaye, Gambhir had spilled the beans on the incident and told, "It happened in the heat of the moment. When India and Pakistan play each other then obviously it is a tense game." “Good or a bad thing you can say but whatever arguments happened between us was during the drinks break. Instead of showing advertisements during the break Neo channel opted to show our heated arguments," the former southpaw revealed. On being asked the main reason behind the heated exchange, Gambhir replied, "I had tried to play and missed it fully. He appealed in such a way that he thought that the ball hit the bat. Then I told him that there is no point in appealing because nothing like that happened, we just got into a heated argument and then it just got from bad to worse." During the epic face-off between the two players, few more Pakistani players had jumped in before the umpires and Dhoni separated Kamran and Gambhir, respectively. In the end overs, Harbhajan-Shoaib Akhtar also had a war of words. Dhoni-led India won the Asia Cup in 2010, beating hosts Sri Lanka by 81 runs in the final.

When Gambhir, Kamran got involved in an ugly spat during 2010 India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash

From inaugural champions to woeful performers in 2021: Team India at T20 World Cup over the years

The BCCI selection committee announced a 15-member Team India squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition on Monday (August 08). The tournament will be held in the UAE with India, the defending champions, to begin their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28.

This time around, the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format — the second time in the tournament's history — as a rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, in October-November. India's squad sees the return of senior pros Virat Kohli and KL Rahul whereas Jasprit Bumrah missed out due to a back injury. Nonetheless, former chief selector and keeper-batter Kiran More was unimpressed seeing R Ashwin hold onto his spot, who was recalled for the West Indies T20Is.

“I was surprised. How can Ashwin even come in this team? And every time. Even in the last World Cup, he was picked in the team and then did not play. Look at his IPL record, it is not that good. I really felt Shami should have taken that role or Axar Patel. And Axar has performed very well. Shami is my player, and he will go to the World Cup. I want wicket-taking bowlers. Shami can pick wickets with the new ball, in the middle overs and in the slog overs as well,” More said on Star Sports.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-only-care-about-those-2-3-games-vs-india-former-pak-pacer-slams-babar-co-ahead-of-asia-cup-505658">'We only care about those 2-3 games vs India' - Former Pak pacer slams Babar &amp; Co. ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Ashwin's case has been a curious one. He was recalled into the T20I squad after a four-year hiatus right&nbsp;before the 2021 T20 World Cup. While he played three games in the showpiece event, he straightaway got his next game in the format during the recently-concluded WI tour. Reportedly, he was not part of the home white-ball series versus the Windies and Sri Lanka, held early this year&nbsp;due to an injury. Further, he also missed out on being&nbsp;part of the squad which&nbsp;won the three T20Is versus hosts England, 2-1, during the recent trip to the United Kingdom.

India's Asia Cup squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.
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The BCCI selection committee announced a 15-member Team India squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition on Monday (August 08). The tournament will be held in the UAE with India, the defending champions, to begin their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28.

The BCCI selection committee announced a 15-member Team India squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition on Monday (August 08). The tournament will be held in the UAE with India, the defending champions, to begin their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. This time around, the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format — the second time in the tournament's history — as a rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, in October-November. India's squad sees the return of senior pros Virat Kohli and KL Rahul whereas Jasprit Bumrah missed out due to a back injury. Nonetheless, former chief selector and keeper-batter Kiran More was unimpressed seeing R Ashwin hold onto his spot, who was recalled for the West Indies T20Is. “I was surprised. How can Ashwin even come in this team? And every time. Even in the last World Cup, he was picked in the team and then did not play. Look at his IPL record, it is not that good. I really felt Shami should have taken that role or Axar Patel. And Axar has performed very well. Shami is my player, and he will go to the World Cup. I want wicket-taking bowlers. Shami can pick wickets with the new ball, in the middle overs and in the slog overs as well,” More said on Star Sports. ALSO READ | 'We only care about those 2-3 games vs India' - Former Pak pacer slams Babar & Co. ahead of Asia Cup Ashwin's case has been a curious one. He was recalled into the T20I squad after a four-year hiatus right before the 2021 T20 World Cup. While he played three games in the showpiece event, he straightaway got his next game in the format during the recently-concluded WI tour. Reportedly, he was not part of the home white-ball series versus the Windies and Sri Lanka, held early this year due to an injury. Further, he also missed out on being part of the squad which won the three T20Is versus hosts England, 2-1, during the recent trip to the United Kingdom. India's Asia Cup squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

'How can he come in this team?': Ex-chief selector on star player's inclusion in India squad for Asia Cup

After beating India for the first time in a World Cup clash during the 2021 T20 showpiece event last year, Pakistan will face Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue when both sides meet in the forthcoming Asia Cup. The Asian championship will kick off on August 27, in the UAE, and the arch-rivals will meet at the same venue (in Dubai) -- where they last met in October 2021 -- to resume their rivalry.

Ahead of the marquee clash, former Pakistan pacer&nbsp;Tauseef Ahmed has lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not settling the Men in Green line-up and feels Babar Azam &amp; Co. only care about facing India in the mega event in the UAE.

“Ye rona dhona toh bohot puraana hai (this has been going on for long now). You didn't try to settle the team. The same players that were there a few years ago are coming back in some way or the other. When something this crucial coming up, you go back to those players about whom you once said that they should leave cricket. It means you didn't have a back-up plan,” Ahmed told&nbsp;Sports Paktv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-virat-kohli-to-become-only-2nd-cricketer-to-complete-unique-ton-in-indias-opener-vs-pakistan-505530">Asia Cup: Virat Kohli to become 2nd cricketer to complete unique ton in India's opener vs Pakistan</a>

“Unless you're not settled, there's no point. There was Saud Shakeel, there were 2-3 other players, where are they now? We want our team to be good. We were thinking they will pick Shoaib Malik. Because you only remember these people at this time. But we don't really care about the Asia Cup, we only care about those 2-3 games against India. It's like.. 'if we win these, that's it'. That's not the way. You need planning,” Ahmed further asserted.

Both India and Pakistan will meet each other in their respective tournament openers in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be played in the shortest format for the second time. Overall, there are high chances of three Indo-Pak matches in the upcoming Asia Cup (including the final).&nbsp;The tournament is a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup -- to be held in Australia -- where both teams will also be facing each other as they are placed in Pool B.

After beating India for the first time in a World Cup clash during the 2021 T20 showpiece event last year, Pakistan will face Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue when both sides meet in the forthcoming Asia Cup.

After beating India for the first time in a World Cup clash during the 2021 T20 showpiece event last year, Pakistan will face Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue when both sides meet in the forthcoming Asia Cup. The Asian championship will kick off on August 27, in the UAE, and the arch-rivals will meet at the same venue (in Dubai) -- where they last met in October 2021 -- to resume their rivalry. Ahead of the marquee clash, former Pakistan pacer Tauseef Ahmed has lashed out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not settling the Men in Green line-up and feels Babar Azam & Co. only care about facing India in the mega event in the UAE. “Ye rona dhona toh bohot puraana hai (this has been going on for long now). You didn't try to settle the team. The same players that were there a few years ago are coming back in some way or the other. When something this crucial coming up, you go back to those players about whom you once said that they should leave cricket. It means you didn't have a back-up plan,” Ahmed told Sports Paktv. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Virat Kohli to become 2nd cricketer to complete unique ton in India's opener vs Pakistan “Unless you're not settled, there's no point. There was Saud Shakeel, there were 2-3 other players, where are they now? We want our team to be good. We were thinking they will pick Shoaib Malik. Because you only remember these people at this time. But we don't really care about the Asia Cup, we only care about those 2-3 games against India. It's like.. 'if we win these, that's it'. That's not the way. You need planning,” Ahmed further asserted. Both India and Pakistan will meet each other in their respective tournament openers in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be played in the shortest format for the second time. Overall, there are high chances of three Indo-Pak matches in the upcoming Asia Cup (including the final). The tournament is a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup -- to be held in Australia -- where both teams will also be facing each other as they are placed in Pool B.

'We only care about those 2-3 games vs India' - Former Pak pacer slams Babar & Co. ahead of Asia Cup

Virat Kohli's name continues to make heads turn. While the former Indian captain has been out of action from international cricket since India's tour of England, the 33-year-old is still making the headlines as there is a lot of talk regarding his form.

Kohli has been going through a lean patch for quite long. He ended the England tour without a single half-century across formats, had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 whereas his century-drought continus since late 2019. Ahead of his return in Asia Cup 2022, Sri Lanka legend and Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Mahela Jayawardene opined on Kohli's poor form. The former right-handed batter feels it is 'unfortunate' what Virat is going through but has backed him to 'come out of it'.

Speaking on ICC Review show, Jayawardene said, "It is unfortunate what Virat is going through right now at the moment, but he is a quality player. I believe Virat has the tools to come out of it (the form slump). He has done that in the past as well and I’m sure he’ll come through this. Class is permanent and form is temporary."

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Further, Jayawardene also opined on Rishabh Pant as an opener, who has opened the innings for India on a few occasions in the recent past in white-ball formats. "Even though he (Pant) hasn’t done that (open the batting) much in domestic cricket, he has the capacity to do that. Wherever he bats, you’re not going to change his game. He is going to be a very natural player so yes, it is an option (for Pant to open)," Jayawardene stated.&nbsp;

India are yet to finalise their openers ahead of the T20 World Cup and there are now several contenders, such as KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Pant, Suryakumar Yadav who can open with captain Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-virat-kohli-to-become-only-2nd-cricketer-to-complete-unique-ton-in-indias-opener-vs-pakistan-505530">Asia Cup: Virat Kohli to become 2nd cricketer to complete unique ton in India's opener vs Pakistan</a>

On Monday (August 08), BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup, in the UAE, from August 27-September 11.

Along with Virat, KL Rahul also made a comeback. He has been out of action since IPL 2022 and last played an international game in February. Thus, Jayawardene feels he needs game time before getting into his groove. "That (Rahul's lack of cricket) would be a concern for India. He has been out for a little while since the IPL, so having game time is quite crucial especially out there in the middle. The sooner he can get some game time and get that confidence back, is always going to help him, as well as the national team" the Sri Lankan concluded.
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Virat Kohli's name continues to make heads turn. While the former Indian captain has been out of action from international cricket since India's tour of England, the 33-year-old is still making the headlines as there is a lot of talk regarding his form.

Virat Kohli's name continues to make heads turn. While the former Indian captain has been out of action from international cricket since India's tour of England, the 33-year-old is still making the headlines as there is a lot of talk regarding his form. Kohli has been going through a lean patch for quite long. He ended the England tour without a single half-century across formats, had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 whereas his century-drought continus since late 2019. Ahead of his return in Asia Cup 2022, Sri Lanka legend and Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Mahela Jayawardene opined on Kohli's poor form. The former right-handed batter feels it is 'unfortunate' what Virat is going through but has backed him to 'come out of it'. Speaking on ICC Review show, Jayawardene said, "It is unfortunate what Virat is going through right now at the moment, but he is a quality player. I believe Virat has the tools to come out of it (the form slump). He has done that in the past as well and I’m sure he’ll come through this. Class is permanent and form is temporary." Further, Jayawardene also opined on Rishabh Pant as an opener, who has opened the innings for India on a few occasions in the recent past in white-ball formats. "Even though he (Pant) hasn’t done that (open the batting) much in domestic cricket, he has the capacity to do that. Wherever he bats, you’re not going to change his game. He is going to be a very natural player so yes, it is an option (for Pant to open)," Jayawardene stated. India are yet to finalise their openers ahead of the T20 World Cup and there are now several contenders, such as KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Pant, Suryakumar Yadav who can open with captain Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Virat Kohli to become 2nd cricketer to complete unique ton in India's opener vs Pakistan On Monday (August 08), BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup, in the UAE, from August 27-September 11. Along with Virat, KL Rahul also made a comeback. He has been out of action since IPL 2022 and last played an international game in February. Thus, Jayawardene feels he needs game time before getting into his groove. "That (Rahul's lack of cricket) would be a concern for India. He has been out for a little while since the IPL, so having game time is quite crucial especially out there in the middle. The sooner he can get some game time and get that confidence back, is always going to help him, as well as the national team" the Sri Lankan concluded.

'It is unfortunate...' - SL legend Mahela Jayawardene reacts to Virat Kohli's barren run ahead of Asia Cup

Virat Kohli is gearing up for his return in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Kohli was out of action during Rohit Sharma-led India's white-ball tour of West Indies as the out-of-form batter was given rest and, hence, all eyes are now on his comeback.&nbsp;

Ahead of his return, Kohli is on the verge of attaining a unique feat under his belt. So far, he has represented India in 99 T20Is and, hence, the Men in Blue's Asia Cup opener, versus Pakistan on August 28, will see him play his 100th game in the format. Thus, he will become only the second cricketer overall to play 100 matches in all forms of the game for his national side. Earlier, Ross Taylor had attained this feat during Kohli-led India's tour of New Zealand in the pre-Covid era in early 2020.

Prior to the Asia Cup campaign, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on Kohli's form. The star Indian batter has been woefully out of touch of late and, hence, there is a lot of pressure on him ahead of India's T20 World Cup squad announcement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-will-change-his-career-ex-pakistan-spinner-makes-bold-claim-says-asia-cup-will-benefit-virat-kohli-505294">'It will change his career' - Ex-Pakistan spinner makes BOLD claim, says Asia Cup will benefit Virat Kohli</a>

In this regard, Chopra told on Star Sports, "Doesn’t matter if he (Kohli) scores a 40 or 70 because everybody has a role to play. There’s synergy in every player; regardless of the position he bats at, you are just going hell for leather. If that’s the mindset, then it’s going to be a lot easier for Kohli."

He added, "It’s the perfect set-up. The kind of cricket India is playing at the moment, the team doesn’t expect Kohli to score 70 or a 100 or finish the game. You just come and play your natural game, that’s more than enough."

So far, Kohli has amassed 3308 runs in 99 T20Is. Will he make a big score in the upcoming clash versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli is gearing up for his return in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Kohli was out of action during Rohit Sharma-led India's white-ball tour of West Indies as the out-of-form batter was given rest and, hence, all eyes are now on his comeback.

Virat Kohli is gearing up for his return in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Kohli was out of action during Rohit Sharma-led India's white-ball tour of West Indies as the out-of-form batter was given rest and, hence, all eyes are now on his comeback. Ahead of his return, Kohli is on the verge of attaining a unique feat under his belt. So far, he has represented India in 99 T20Is and, hence, the Men in Blue's Asia Cup opener, versus Pakistan on August 28, will see him play his 100th game in the format. Thus, he will become only the second cricketer overall to play 100 matches in all forms of the game for his national side. Earlier, Ross Taylor had attained this feat during Kohli-led India's tour of New Zealand in the pre-Covid era in early 2020. Prior to the Asia Cup campaign, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on Kohli's form. The star Indian batter has been woefully out of touch of late and, hence, there is a lot of pressure on him ahead of India's T20 World Cup squad announcement. ALSO READ | 'It will change his career' - Ex-Pakistan spinner makes BOLD claim, says Asia Cup will benefit Virat Kohli In this regard, Chopra told on Star Sports, "Doesn’t matter if he (Kohli) scores a 40 or 70 because everybody has a role to play. There’s synergy in every player; regardless of the position he bats at, you are just going hell for leather. If that’s the mindset, then it’s going to be a lot easier for Kohli." He added, "It’s the perfect set-up. The kind of cricket India is playing at the moment, the team doesn’t expect Kohli to score 70 or a 100 or finish the game. You just come and play your natural game, that’s more than enough." So far, Kohli has amassed 3308 runs in 99 T20Is. Will he make a big score in the upcoming clash versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Asia Cup: Virat Kohli to become 2nd cricketer to complete unique ton in India's opener vs Pakistan

Virat Kohli's form remains a big topic of discussion. The former Indian captain was rested for India's white-ball tour of West Indies and will now make a return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming Asia Cup, to kick off in August 27 in the UAE.

Ahead of the Asia Cup, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a bold claim. Kaneria feels a struggling Kohli will be able to move past his poor form and revive his career courtesy of the Asian championship, which will be played in the shortest format (for the second-time in tournament-history).

"The Asia Cup will change Virat Kohli's career. The tournament is crucial for him to prolong his career and I feel he will come good. However, many former cricketers have said that Kohli is just heavy baggage on the team if he doesn't score runs. So he needs to think carefully about how he can make a comeback. This is because there are other dynamic batters like Iyer, Samson and Gill waiting in the wings," Kaneria shared his views on his YouTube channel.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-just-going-hell-aakash-chopra-explains-how-virat-kohli-will-benefit-from-indias-new-approach-505260">'You are just going hell...' - Aakash Chopra explains how Virat Kohli will benefit from India's new approach</a>

The tainted spinner also suggested the batting slot for the star Indian batter. "Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will open. But I would put Suryakumar Yadav at No. 3 and then followed by Kohli. Kohli will need some time to settle-in and play carefully so I think he should bat at No.4," Kaneria added.

Kohli, with&nbsp;3308 runs from 99 T20I matches, will also be playing his 100th game in the format when India start their campaign in the tournament. Men in Blue will face Babar Azam's Pakistan in their tournament-opener on August 28.

Squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.
</section>

Virat Kohli's form remains a big topic of discussion. The former Indian captain was rested for India's white-ball tour of West Indies and will now make a return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming Asia Cup, to kick off in August 27 in the UAE.

Virat Kohli's form remains a big topic of discussion. The former Indian captain was rested for India's white-ball tour of West Indies and will now make a return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming Asia Cup, to kick off in August 27 in the UAE. Ahead of the Asia Cup, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a bold claim. Kaneria feels a struggling Kohli will be able to move past his poor form and revive his career courtesy of the Asian championship, which will be played in the shortest format (for the second-time in tournament-history). "The Asia Cup will change Virat Kohli's career. The tournament is crucial for him to prolong his career and I feel he will come good. However, many former cricketers have said that Kohli is just heavy baggage on the team if he doesn't score runs. So he needs to think carefully about how he can make a comeback. This is because there are other dynamic batters like Iyer, Samson and Gill waiting in the wings," Kaneria shared his views on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | 'You are just going hell...' - Aakash Chopra explains how Virat Kohli will benefit from India's new approach The tainted spinner also suggested the batting slot for the star Indian batter. "Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will open. But I would put Suryakumar Yadav at No. 3 and then followed by Kohli. Kohli will need some time to settle-in and play carefully so I think he should bat at No.4," Kaneria added. Kohli, with 3308 runs from 99 T20I matches, will also be playing his 100th game in the format when India start their campaign in the tournament. Men in Blue will face Babar Azam's Pakistan in their tournament-opener on August 28. Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

'It will change his career' - Ex-Pakistan spinner makes BOLD claim, says Asia Cup will benefit Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, who was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, is all set to return to action for Team India during the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The upcoming showpiece event will be held in the UAE, with Sri Lanka as hosts, and will be played in the shortest format -- for the second time in the tournament history -- as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November).

The Indian cricket loyalists will be desperate to see Kohli return to form, who has been struggling for quite a while. He didn't score a single half-century in the England tour, had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 and his century-drought continues since late 2019. However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Kohli will benefit from India's new-found aggressive batting approach in T20Is.

"Doesn’t matter if he (Kohli) scores a 40 or 70 because everybody has a role to play. There’s synergy in every player; regardless of the position he bats at, you are just going hell for leather. If that’s the mindset, then it’s going to be a lot easier for Kohli," said Chopra on Star Sports.

"It’s the perfect set-up. The kind of cricket India is playing at the moment, the team doesn’t expect Kohli to score 70 or a 100 or finish the game. You just come and play your game, that’s more than enough," added Chopra.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-dropping-percentage-was-21-former-pakistan-captains-big-claim-on-india-legends-keeping-skills-505171">'MS Dhoni's dropping percentage was 21' - Former Pakistan captain's big claim on India legend's keeping skills</a>

The 33-year-old Kohli will still be eager to get a big score under his belt to ease some pressure on his shoulders ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia. Meanwhile, India will begin their Asia Cup campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. The tournament will kick off on August 27 and the finale will be held on September 11.

Squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli, who was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, is all set to return to action for Team India during the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The upcoming showpiece event will be held in the UAE, with Sri Lanka as hosts, and will be played in the shortest format -- for the second time in the tournament history -- as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November).

Virat Kohli, who was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, is all set to return to action for Team India during the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The upcoming showpiece event will be held in the UAE, with Sri Lanka as hosts, and will be played in the shortest format -- for the second time in the tournament history -- as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November). The Indian cricket loyalists will be desperate to see Kohli return to form, who has been struggling for quite a while. He didn't score a single half-century in the England tour, had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 and his century-drought continues since late 2019. However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Kohli will benefit from India's new-found aggressive batting approach in T20Is. "Doesn’t matter if he (Kohli) scores a 40 or 70 because everybody has a role to play. There’s synergy in every player; regardless of the position he bats at, you are just going hell for leather. If that’s the mindset, then it’s going to be a lot easier for Kohli," said Chopra on Star Sports. "It’s the perfect set-up. The kind of cricket India is playing at the moment, the team doesn’t expect Kohli to score 70 or a 100 or finish the game. You just come and play your game, that’s more than enough," added Chopra. ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni's dropping percentage was 21' - Former Pakistan captain's big claim on India legend's keeping skills The 33-year-old Kohli will still be eager to get a big score under his belt to ease some pressure on his shoulders ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia. Meanwhile, India will begin their Asia Cup campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. The tournament will kick off on August 27 and the finale will be held on September 11. Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

'You are just going hell...' - Aakash Chopra explains how Virat Kohli will benefit from India's new approach

Indian contingent ended their campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2022 with an impressive 61 medals as the athletes from the country dominated across several sporting disciplines at the showpiece event. India won 22 gold medals, 12 silver and 23 bronze medals at the Games with weightlifters and wrestlers clinching the most number of medals at the Games.

While the Indian wrestling contingent won the highest number of medals with 12 athletes finishing on the podium, weightlifters won a total of 10 medals at the Games. India picked up six gold medals in wrestling and 3 gold medals in weightlifting in what was a stellar campaign overall for the country.

The Indian contingent has been praised by many for their fantastic show at the Commonwealth Games 2022, including former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli. Kohli took to Twitter to laud the Indian contingent for bringing laurels to the country.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-is-like-our-son-wish-to-see-him-arshad-compete-at-a-packed-stadium-in-lahore-pakistan-stars-coach-505093">Neeraj is like our son, wish to see him &amp; Arshad compete at a packed stadium in Lahore: Pakistan star's coach</a>

"You have brought great laurels for our country. Congratulations to all our winners and the participants of CWG 2022. We are so proud of you. Jai Hind," Kohli wrote in a tweet.

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You have brought great laurels for our country. Congratulations to all our winners and the participants of CWG 2022. We are so proud of you. Jai Hind <a href="https://t.co/phKMn7MMdY">pic.twitter.com/phKMn7MMdY</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1556899075047378945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Mirabai Chanu continued her dominant run at the Games as he bagged India's first gold medal at the showpiece event in the women's 49kg weightlifting before the likes of&nbsp;Jeremy Lalrinnunga and Achinta Sheuli also bagged gold medals in weightlifting in their respective categories.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-commonwealth-games-2022-conclude-with-glittery-closing-ceremony-in-birmingham-505080">In pics - Commonwealth Games 2022 concludes with glittery closing ceremony in Birmingham</a>

In wrestling, Sakshi Malik, Ravi Dahiya, Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat among others were the stand-out performers and returned with a gold medal each in their respective categories. PV Sindhu won her maiden women's singles gold in badminton while world champions Nikhat Zareen won gold in women's 50kg.

India also won two medals in lawn bowls for the first time at the Commonwealth Games while also clinching a medal for the first time in race walking.

&nbsp;

Indian contingent ended their campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2022 with an impressive 61 medals as the athletes from the country dominated across several sporting disciplines at the showpiece event.

Indian contingent ended their campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2022 with an impressive 61 medals as the athletes from the country dominated across several sporting disciplines at the showpiece event. India won 22 gold medals, 12 silver and 23 bronze medals at the Games with weightlifters and wrestlers clinching the most number of medals at the Games. While the Indian wrestling contingent won the highest number of medals with 12 athletes finishing on the podium, weightlifters won a total of 10 medals at the Games. India picked up six gold medals in wrestling and 3 gold medals in weightlifting in what was a stellar campaign overall for the country. The Indian contingent has been praised by many for their fantastic show at the Commonwealth Games 2022, including former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli. Kohli took to Twitter to laud the Indian contingent for bringing laurels to the country. Also Read: Neeraj is like our son, wish to see him & Arshad compete at a packed stadium in Lahore: Pakistan star's coach "You have brought great laurels for our country. Congratulations to all our winners and the participants of CWG 2022. We are so proud of you. Jai Hind," Kohli wrote in a tweet. You have brought great laurels for our country. Congratulations to all our winners and the participants of CWG 2022. We are so proud of you. Jai Hind pic.twitter.com/phKMn7MMdY — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 9, 2022 × Mirabai Chanu continued her dominant run at the Games as he bagged India's first gold medal at the showpiece event in the women's 49kg weightlifting before the likes of Jeremy Lalrinnunga and Achinta Sheuli also bagged gold medals in weightlifting in their respective categories. Also Read: In pics - Commonwealth Games 2022 concludes with glittery closing ceremony in Birmingham In wrestling, Sakshi Malik, Ravi Dahiya, Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat among others were the stand-out performers and returned with a gold medal each in their respective categories. PV Sindhu won her maiden women's singles gold in badminton while world champions Nikhat Zareen won gold in women's 50kg. India also won two medals in lawn bowls for the first time at the Commonwealth Games while also clinching a medal for the first time in race walking.

'We are so proud of you': Virat Kohli lauds Indian contingent after stellar show at CWG 2022

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27.&nbsp;

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad sees the comeback of Kohli, who missed the entire West Indies tour due to rest, whereas opener Rahul has also returned after suffering a groin injury and being infected by Covid-19. Meanwhile, the defending champions have been dealt with a huge blow as their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out.

In a tweet from the official handle of the BCCI, it wrote, "Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel were not available for selection owing to injuries. They are currently undergoing rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-gives-inspiring-speech-after-india-end-west-indies-tour-with-4-1-win-in-t20is-504788">WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is</a>

Thus, India will go with three frontline seamers in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan with all-rounder Hardik Pandya being the fourth pacer. Thus, all the onus will be on Bhuvi's shoulders whereas Rohit &amp; Co. will hope for Hardik to provide regular breakthroughs. Among the main batters, Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul, Kohli, wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik and Hardik will spearhead the department.

Hardik, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin are the main all-rounders. The spin department will be headed by Ashwin, Jaddu, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi whereas Hooda can also chip in with a few overs of spin. There are also three standby players such as Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel (who had a terrific tour of West Indies).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-should-virat-kohli-bat-ex-indian-stumper-shares-his-preferred-slot-for-star-batter-ahead-of-asia-cup-504872">Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27.

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad sees the comeback of Kohli, who missed the entire West Indies tour due to rest, whereas opener Rahul has also returned after suffering a groin injury and being infected by Covid-19. Meanwhile, the defending champions have been dealt with a huge blow as their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out. In a tweet from the official handle of the BCCI, it wrote, "Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel were not available for selection owing to injuries. They are currently undergoing rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru." ALSO READ | WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is Thus, India will go with three frontline seamers in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan with all-rounder Hardik Pandya being the fourth pacer. Thus, all the onus will be on Bhuvi's shoulders whereas Rohit & Co. will hope for Hardik to provide regular breakthroughs. Among the main batters, Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul, Kohli, wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik and Hardik will spearhead the department. Hardik, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin are the main all-rounders. The spin department will be headed by Ashwin, Jaddu, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi whereas Hooda can also chip in with a few overs of spin. There are also three standby players such as Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel (who had a terrific tour of West Indies). ALSO READ | Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli, KL Rahul return in Jasprit Bumrah-less Team India squad for Asia Cup 2022

After India's successful white-ball tour of West Indies, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will now shift their focus towards the forthcoming Asia Cup, in UAE, which will be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (to kick off later this year in Australia).

While India are ticking a lot of boxes, they do have some issues to sort out while finalising their T20 WC squad. Along with problems of plenty, India also need Virat Kohli to return to form at the earliest. The former Indian skipper has looked out of sorts for long and even ended the England tour without a single half-century across formats. His century-drought also continues since 2019 whereas his similar sort of dismissals -- chasing the ball on the fourth or fifth-stump line -- have led to his criticism.

A lot has been said and written about Kohli's batting slot. Should India open with Kohli and Rohit or is the former best suited at his preferred slot, i.e. No. 3? Or, can he be demoted? Amid all this, former Indian stumper Parthiv Patel suggested that Kohli should be promoted as an opener, to play freely and not as per the situation.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Parthiv said ahead of India's squad selection for Asia Cup,&nbsp;"I would want Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to open. I want Kohli to open, so that he can just go out and unleash himself. He's taken a break, but we all know there's no shortage of ability in his batting style.

"As an opener, you start the game at 0-0. Whereas at No.3, you have to play according to the situation. Kohli can play the way he wants and can still play at a strike rate of 170, and if two wickets have fallen early, he can also play at 130," he stated.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-gives-inspiring-speech-after-india-end-west-indies-tour-with-4-1-win-in-t20is-504788">WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is</a>

"You want Kohli to play as freely as he can. There's no pressure on him and he doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. He's already scored 70 hundreds and has scored plenty of runs.

"All his runs and his big knocks have come as an opener in the IPL in 2016, 2017 and 2018. That's the position that he likes and he likes to go out there an play an attacking brand of cricket," Parthiv further added.

<section>Kohli was out of action from the entire West Indies tour. He, however, is set to make a return to the T20I squad for the Asian championship, where India are the defending champions.</section>

<section>&nbsp;</section>
</section>

After India's successful white-ball tour of West Indies, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will now shift their focus towards the forthcoming Asia Cup, in UAE, which will be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (to kick off later this year in Australia).

After India's successful white-ball tour of West Indies, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will now shift their focus towards the forthcoming Asia Cup, in UAE, which will be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (to kick off later this year in Australia). While India are ticking a lot of boxes, they do have some issues to sort out while finalising their T20 WC squad. Along with problems of plenty, India also need Virat Kohli to return to form at the earliest. The former Indian skipper has looked out of sorts for long and even ended the England tour without a single half-century across formats. His century-drought also continues since 2019 whereas his similar sort of dismissals -- chasing the ball on the fourth or fifth-stump line -- have led to his criticism. A lot has been said and written about Kohli's batting slot. Should India open with Kohli and Rohit or is the former best suited at his preferred slot, i.e. No. 3? Or, can he be demoted? Amid all this, former Indian stumper Parthiv Patel suggested that Kohli should be promoted as an opener, to play freely and not as per the situation. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Parthiv said ahead of India's squad selection for Asia Cup, "I would want Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to open. I want Kohli to open, so that he can just go out and unleash himself. He's taken a break, but we all know there's no shortage of ability in his batting style. "As an opener, you start the game at 0-0. Whereas at No.3, you have to play according to the situation. Kohli can play the way he wants and can still play at a strike rate of 170, and if two wickets have fallen early, he can also play at 130," he stated. ALSO READ | WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is "You want Kohli to play as freely as he can. There's no pressure on him and he doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. He's already scored 70 hundreds and has scored plenty of runs. "All his runs and his big knocks have come as an opener in the IPL in 2016, 2017 and 2018. That's the position that he likes and he likes to go out there an play an attacking brand of cricket," Parthiv further added. Kohli was out of action from the entire West Indies tour. He, however, is set to make a return to the T20I squad for the Asian championship, where India are the defending champions.

Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup

Virat Kohli has been going through one of the worst lean patches in his international career so far as he has struggled to score runs consistently across formats for team India. The former India captain has not scored a century since November 2019 and has endured a woeful run with the bat recently.&nbsp;

Kohli was part of India's Test and limited-overs squad during the recently-concluded tour of England where he flopped massively and failed to get going. The lack of runs from his bat also led to several former cricketers and experts questioning the senior batter's place in India's T20I squad ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year.

While he has been criticised by many for his poor form with calls to drop him from T20Is, Kohli still retains the confidence of captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management. The senior batter will be backed by the team management despite his current poor form.&nbsp;

In the wake of Kohli's disastrous run for the Indian team, former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez shared his views on India's decision to rest Kohli from the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. While Hafeez insisted Kohli has lost his impact over the last couple of years, the decision to rest him is a good one from&nbsp;the Indian team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-tell-us-what-to-do-sunil-gavaskar-lashes-out-at-old-powers-england-australia-for-ipl-criticism-504285">'Don't tell us what to do': Sunil Gavaskar lashes out at 'old powers' England, Australia for IPL criticism</a>

"I think Virat Kohli is an impact player. In the past 2-3 years, we saw that the impact wasn't there. Even when he scored a half-century against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year, that was, to me, impactless. Until you can't bring an impact, there's no point in you playing," Hafeez was quoted as saying by Pakistan daily&nbsp;Dawn.

"Every player requires a break. The Indian board made a good decision. This break will help him get back to becoming an impact player. He had lost his impact," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-not-part-of-team-indias-t20i-plans-confirms-bcci-selection-committee-member-503956">Mohammed Shami not part of Team India's T20I plans, confirms BCCI selection committee member</a>

Kohli will also miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is expected to make his comeback for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. India will head into the tournament as the defending champions having won the tournament in 2018 under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. Kohli will be hopeful of bouncing back at the Asia Cup ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.

Virat Kohli has been going through one of the worst lean patches in his international career so far as he has struggled to score runs consistently across formats for team India.

Virat Kohli has been going through one of the worst lean patches in his international career so far as he has struggled to score runs consistently across formats for team India. The former India captain has not scored a century since November 2019 and has endured a woeful run with the bat recently. Kohli was part of India's Test and limited-overs squad during the recently-concluded tour of England where he flopped massively and failed to get going. The lack of runs from his bat also led to several former cricketers and experts questioning the senior batter's place in India's T20I squad ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year. While he has been criticised by many for his poor form with calls to drop him from T20Is, Kohli still retains the confidence of captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management. The senior batter will be backed by the team management despite his current poor form. In the wake of Kohli's disastrous run for the Indian team, former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez shared his views on India's decision to rest Kohli from the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. While Hafeez insisted Kohli has lost his impact over the last couple of years, the decision to rest him is a good one from the Indian team. Also Read: 'Don't tell us what to do': Sunil Gavaskar lashes out at 'old powers' England, Australia for IPL criticism "I think Virat Kohli is an impact player. In the past 2-3 years, we saw that the impact wasn't there. Even when he scored a half-century against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year, that was, to me, impactless. Until you can't bring an impact, there's no point in you playing," Hafeez was quoted as saying by Pakistan daily Dawn. "Every player requires a break. The Indian board made a good decision. This break will help him get back to becoming an impact player. He had lost his impact," he added. Also Read: Mohammed Shami not part of Team India's T20I plans, confirms BCCI selection committee member Kohli will also miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is expected to make his comeback for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. India will head into the tournament as the defending champions having won the tournament in 2018 under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. Kohli will be hopeful of bouncing back at the Asia Cup ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.

'He has lost his impact': Former Pakistani all-rounder makes bold comment on Virat Kohli's poor form

Since the early 2010s, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been the mainstays of Team India. While both the cricketers have a huge following, their fans often engage in a tussle on social media platforms regarding who is the best among the duo.

However, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer was asked to comment on the Kohli vs Rohit debate on social media, Arun Dhumal gave an interesting take.&nbsp;

"We never think about it. It is the passion of fans that drives them and this debate. When you are attached to an emotion, then you tend to say all that. And social media is a platform where you can talk about anything. They speak their heart out because there are no restrictions. That is why people think it persists. We saw the same with Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, or later between Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar. On social media, matters amplify to an extent that people believe all this is true," Dhumal stated in a video posted on senior journalist Vimal Kumar's YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-want-to-lead-bcci-treasurer-reveals-it-was-virat-kohlis-decision-to-leave-india-captaincy-503614">'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy</a>

Dhumal also spoke about the much-talked about Kohli vs BCCI captaincy saga. "As far as the issue of captaincy is concerned, it was his call. He decided that&nbsp;mujhe ab nahi karni hai captaincy&nbsp;(that I don’t want to captain). It is possible that someone feels it’s best to do it after the World Cup, but that is their point of view. But he wanted to quit, and it was purely his decision. And we respected it. He has contributed so much to Indian cricket that everyone in the cricket board respects him. We would like to see Virat in action on the ground," he added.

Both Rohit and Kohli are indispensable to the Indian cricket team and are expected to reunite for India's upcoming Asia Cup 2022 campaign. At present, Kohli has been rested for India's ongoing white-ball tour of West Indies.

Since the early 2010s, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been the mainstays of Team India. While both the cricketers have a huge following, their fans often engage in a tussle on social media platforms regarding who is the best among the duo.

Since the early 2010s, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been the mainstays of Team India. While both the cricketers have a huge following, their fans often engage in a tussle on social media platforms regarding who is the best among the duo. However, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer was asked to comment on the Kohli vs Rohit debate on social media, Arun Dhumal gave an interesting take. "We never think about it. It is the passion of fans that drives them and this debate. When you are attached to an emotion, then you tend to say all that. And social media is a platform where you can talk about anything. They speak their heart out because there are no restrictions. That is why people think it persists. We saw the same with Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, or later between Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar. On social media, matters amplify to an extent that people believe all this is true," Dhumal stated in a video posted on senior journalist Vimal Kumar's YouTube channel. ALSO READ | 'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy Dhumal also spoke about the much-talked about Kohli vs BCCI captaincy saga. "As far as the issue of captaincy is concerned, it was his call. He decided that mujhe ab nahi karni hai captaincy (that I don’t want to captain). It is possible that someone feels it’s best to do it after the World Cup, but that is their point of view. But he wanted to quit, and it was purely his decision. And we respected it. He has contributed so much to Indian cricket that everyone in the cricket board respects him. We would like to see Virat in action on the ground," he added. Both Rohit and Kohli are indispensable to the Indian cricket team and are expected to reunite for India's upcoming Asia Cup 2022 campaign. At present, Kohli has been rested for India's ongoing white-ball tour of West Indies.

'Saw the same with Gavaskar-Kapil, Ganguly-Sachin' - BCCI treasurer shares take on Kohli vs Rohit debate

The cricketing fans are eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. The forthcoming mega event in Asia will be held in the shortest format of the game and will see India and Pakistan face each other at least twice and are most likely to also clash in the final.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee tournament, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif opined on the upcoming Indo-Pak clash and feels Babar Azam-led Men in Green are better placed than their arch-rivals Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. He also revealed India's flaws while speaking on his official YouTube channel ‘Caught Behind’.

"Win or loss is different. But I think Pakistan's strategy is looking much better. There are not many changes in the Pakistan side, whether it's T20I, ODI or Test. When you look at India, they have had around 7 captains in the past year, which is quite inappropriate in present situation," Latif said.

“Kohli isn't there, Rohit and Rahul were injured. Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant came as captains, Shikhar Dhawan (ODI) also came as a captain. They would have some problem making their best team. It is no doubt that India have the best players but they can't make their best-16, and I think they would have problems even forming their best XI,” the ex-Pakistani&nbsp;stumper further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-want-to-lead-bcci-treasurer-reveals-it-was-virat-kohlis-decision-to-leave-india-captaincy-503614">'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy</a>

“Pakistan won because of India's mistakes last year, and I think this time, Pakistan will benefit from India's mistakes again,” added Latif.

There is a strong chance for India and Pakistan to face each other thrice as the two heavyweights are expected to meet in the tournament-finale. Even if that doesn't happen, the two Asian giants are set to lock horns in their respective T20 World Cup openers, at MCG, Melbourne.

The cricketing fans are eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. The forthcoming mega event in Asia will be held in the shortest format of the game and will see India and Pakistan face each other at least twice and are most likely to also clash in the final.

The cricketing fans are eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. The forthcoming mega event in Asia will be held in the shortest format of the game and will see India and Pakistan face each other at least twice and are most likely to also clash in the final. Ahead of the marquee tournament, former Pakistan captain and keeper-batter Rashid Latif opined on the upcoming Indo-Pak clash and feels Babar Azam-led Men in Green are better placed than their arch-rivals Rohit Sharma & Co. He also revealed India's flaws while speaking on his official YouTube channel ‘Caught Behind’. "Win or loss is different. But I think Pakistan's strategy is looking much better. There are not many changes in the Pakistan side, whether it's T20I, ODI or Test. When you look at India, they have had around 7 captains in the past year, which is quite inappropriate in present situation," Latif said. “Kohli isn't there, Rohit and Rahul were injured. Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant came as captains, Shikhar Dhawan (ODI) also came as a captain. They would have some problem making their best team. It is no doubt that India have the best players but they can't make their best-16, and I think they would have problems even forming their best XI,” the ex-Pakistani stumper further asserted. ALSO READ | 'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy “Pakistan won because of India's mistakes last year, and I think this time, Pakistan will benefit from India's mistakes again,” added Latif. There is a strong chance for India and Pakistan to face each other thrice as the two heavyweights are expected to meet in the tournament-finale. Even if that doesn't happen, the two Asian giants are set to lock horns in their respective T20 World Cup openers, at MCG, Melbourne.

Asia Cup: Ex-Pakistan captain feels Babar Azam & Co. better placed than India, points out Men in Blue's flaws

KL Rahul, India's vice-captain, has been out of action since end of IPL 2022. Rahul played the entire IPL 15 edition, where he led debutants Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to the playoffs, before a groin injury led to him missing the home T20Is versus South Africa and the entire England and Ireland tour. After recovering from the injury, he tested positive for Covid-19 and missed out on the ongoing white-ball tour of West Indies as well.

Thus, Rahul's last international appearance came in February 2022. Thus, the 30-year-old is facing a tough period whereas the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue are preparing hard for the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia, to be held in October-November. Recently, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris shared his take on Rahul and fears that the dashing opener might not reclaim his spot so easily as his absence has led to many other players getting opportunities and making the most of their chances (such as Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc.)

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-sridhar-recalls-ms-dhonis-brilliant-move-ahead-of-team-indias-2013-champions-trophy-win-503587">R Sridhar recalls MS Dhoni's 'brilliant move' ahead of Team India's 2013 Champions Trophy win</a>

“It's a different mindset for players because they don't want to be out and they don't want to be giving other players opportunities. I know India has a very good culture within its group, so it doesn't mind allowing other players opportunities all the time,” Styris said&nbsp;while speaking on Sports18’s daily sports news show ‘Sports Over The Top’.

“I know as a player myself, you never wanted to give somebody else a chance to take your spot. So with the fact that he's out injured and he's away from the team at the moment, it just means that other players are able to do what Suryakumar is doing, what Rishabh Pant is doing, getting in there, taking the chance scoring runs and really posing the selectors some questions saying, do we actually need KL Rahul?"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-want-to-lead-bcci-treasurer-reveals-it-was-virat-kohlis-decision-to-leave-india-captaincy-503614">'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy</a>

“Is he going to be in good form when he comes back? He has missed a lot of cricket, a lot of question marks now present themselves just because he's been able to give other players that opportunity,” Styris&nbsp;added.

Rahul was India's leading run-getter in last year's T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. He ended with 194 runs at 152.75 along with three half-centuries. Even in this year's IPL, the right-hander returned with 616 runs (second-most overall). While others have made the most of his absence, he remains a vital cog for India across formats.

Will he find it tough to regain his spot heading into the T20 WC Down Under? Only time will tell...

KL Rahul, India's vice-captain, has been out of action since end of IPL 2022. Rahul played the entire IPL 15 edition, where he led debutants Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to the playoffs, before a groin injury led to him missing the home T20Is versus South Africa and the entire England and Ireland tour.

KL Rahul, India's vice-captain, has been out of action since end of IPL 2022. Rahul played the entire IPL 15 edition, where he led debutants Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to the playoffs, before a groin injury led to him missing the home T20Is versus South Africa and the entire England and Ireland tour. After recovering from the injury, he tested positive for Covid-19 and missed out on the ongoing white-ball tour of West Indies as well. Thus, Rahul's last international appearance came in February 2022. Thus, the 30-year-old is facing a tough period whereas the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue are preparing hard for the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia, to be held in October-November. Recently, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris shared his take on Rahul and fears that the dashing opener might not reclaim his spot so easily as his absence has led to many other players getting opportunities and making the most of their chances (such as Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc.) ALSO READ | R Sridhar recalls MS Dhoni's 'brilliant move' ahead of Team India's 2013 Champions Trophy win “It's a different mindset for players because they don't want to be out and they don't want to be giving other players opportunities. I know India has a very good culture within its group, so it doesn't mind allowing other players opportunities all the time,” Styris said while speaking on Sports18’s daily sports news show ‘Sports Over The Top’. “I know as a player myself, you never wanted to give somebody else a chance to take your spot. So with the fact that he's out injured and he's away from the team at the moment, it just means that other players are able to do what Suryakumar is doing, what Rishabh Pant is doing, getting in there, taking the chance scoring runs and really posing the selectors some questions saying, do we actually need KL Rahul?" ALSO READ | 'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy “Is he going to be in good form when he comes back? He has missed a lot of cricket, a lot of question marks now present themselves just because he's been able to give other players that opportunity,” Styris added. Rahul was India's leading run-getter in last year's T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. He ended with 194 runs at 152.75 along with three half-centuries. Even in this year's IPL, the right-hander returned with 616 runs (second-most overall). While others have made the most of his absence, he remains a vital cog for India across formats. Will he find it tough to regain his spot heading into the T20 WC Down Under? Only time will tell...

'He has....' - Former NZ all-rounder fears for KL Rahul's comeback in Team India ahead of T20 WC

After the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, Indian cricket was at its bottom. Following India's Super 12 round exit, Virat Kohli left captaincy in the shortest format -- a decision he had already taken and announced prior to the tournament. However, what followed was total mayhem.&nbsp;

Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain before India's departure for the tour of South Africa, in early December 2021. After the three-match Test series versus the Proteas, the star batter resigned as the red-ball skipper as well. This led to many speculating that all is not well between Kohli and the BCCI. Recently, BCCI treasurer Amul Singh Dhumal told a senior journalist that it was Kohli's decision to leave captaincy altogether and the board had no role to play.

"As far as the issue of captaincy is concerned, it was his call. He decided that&nbsp;mujhe ab nahi karni hai captaincy&nbsp;(that I don’t want to captain). It is possible that someone feels it’s best to do it after the World Cup, but that is their point of view. But he wanted to quit, and it was purely his decision. And we respected it. He has contributed so much to Indian cricket that everyone in the cricket board respects him. We would like to see Virat in action on the ground," Dhumal said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-sridhar-recalls-ms-dhonis-brilliant-move-ahead-of-team-indias-2013-champions-trophy-win-503587">R Sridhar recalls MS Dhoni's 'brilliant move' ahead of Team India's 2013 Champions Trophy win</a>

Ever since Kohli left captaincy altogether, his form has been very poor. In the England tour, he failed to register a single half-century whereas his century-drought continues since late 2019.

In this regard, Dhumal said, "See… as far as Virat is concerned, he is not a simple player. He is a great and his contribution to Indian cricket is unparalleled. It is outstanding. So, such conversations (board is trying to sideline Kohli) keep taking place in the media and it does not affect us. We want him to return to form soon, and as far as team selection is concerned, we leave it to the selectors. It is their call as to how they want to go about it."

Kohli isn't part of India's ongoing white-ball tour of West Indies. He is expected to return for the Asia Cup 2022 edition, whose squad&nbsp;is likely to be announced on August 8.

After the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, Indian cricket was at its bottom. Following India's Super 12 round exit, Virat Kohli left captaincy in the shortest format -- a decision he had already taken and announced prior to the tournament.

After the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, Indian cricket was at its bottom. Following India's Super 12 round exit, Virat Kohli left captaincy in the shortest format -- a decision he had already taken and announced prior to the tournament. However, what followed was total mayhem. Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain before India's departure for the tour of South Africa, in early December 2021. After the three-match Test series versus the Proteas, the star batter resigned as the red-ball skipper as well. This led to many speculating that all is not well between Kohli and the BCCI. Recently, BCCI treasurer Amul Singh Dhumal told a senior journalist that it was Kohli's decision to leave captaincy altogether and the board had no role to play. "As far as the issue of captaincy is concerned, it was his call. He decided that mujhe ab nahi karni hai captaincy (that I don’t want to captain). It is possible that someone feels it’s best to do it after the World Cup, but that is their point of view. But he wanted to quit, and it was purely his decision. And we respected it. He has contributed so much to Indian cricket that everyone in the cricket board respects him. We would like to see Virat in action on the ground," Dhumal said. ALSO READ | R Sridhar recalls MS Dhoni's 'brilliant move' ahead of Team India's 2013 Champions Trophy win Ever since Kohli left captaincy altogether, his form has been very poor. In the England tour, he failed to register a single half-century whereas his century-drought continues since late 2019. In this regard, Dhumal said, "See… as far as Virat is concerned, he is not a simple player. He is a great and his contribution to Indian cricket is unparalleled. It is outstanding. So, such conversations (board is trying to sideline Kohli) keep taking place in the media and it does not affect us. We want him to return to form soon, and as far as team selection is concerned, we leave it to the selectors. It is their call as to how they want to go about it." Kohli isn't part of India's ongoing white-ball tour of West Indies. He is expected to return for the Asia Cup 2022 edition, whose squad is likely to be announced on August 8.

'I don't want to lead': BCCI treasurer reveals it was Virat Kohli's decision to leave India captaincy

Rohit Sharma-led India returned to winning ways in the third T20I, of the five-match series, versus West Indies in the Caribbean island on Tuesday (August 02). After losing the second match by five wickets, India were asked to chase 165 after opting to bowl first at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts.

In reply, Men in Blue rode on opener Suryakumar Yadav's 44-ball 76&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 26-ball 33 to chase down the score in 19 overs with seven wickets to spare. Captain Rohit couldn't do much as he retired hurt for 11 due to back spasm. Despite his short stay in the middle, the 35-year-old surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to attain an elite feat as the Indian captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadav-guides-india-to-victory-over-west-indies-to-take-2-1-series-lead-503093">Suryakumar Yadav guides India to victory over West Indies to take 2-1 series lead</a>

Hitman now has most number of sixes as Indian captain in the shortest format. He was tied with Kohli at 59 sixes before taking his tally to 60 prior to his injury forcing him out of the field. Rohit has 60 sixes in 34 innings as captain, with Kohli (59) and MS Dhoni (34) following suit.

Rohit also opined on his injury after the conclusion of the match. "It's okay at the moment. We've got a few days till the next game, hopefully it should be okay (his injury)."

The Indian captain lauded his team for bouncing back swiftly to take a 2-1 lead in the five T20Is. In this regard, he stated, "How we bowled in the middle overs was crucial. I thought we used the conditions well. Used the variations well. Was very clinical how we chased. When you watched from the outside, didn't feel a lot of risk was taken, was a lot of calmness in the middle. Surya batted brilliantly, good partnership there with Iyer. The pitch had something in it for the bowlers, not an easy target. Was important to pick the right shots, right balls on a ground like that."

The fourth and penultimate match will be held in Florida on August 06 (Saturday).

Rohit Sharma-led India returned to winning ways in the third T20I, of the five-match series, versus West Indies in the Caribbean island on Tuesday (August 02). After losing the second match by five wickets, India were asked to chase 165 after opting to bowl first at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts.

Rohit Sharma-led India returned to winning ways in the third T20I, of the five-match series, versus West Indies in the Caribbean island on Tuesday (August 02). After losing the second match by five wickets, India were asked to chase 165 after opting to bowl first at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts. In reply, Men in Blue rode on opener Suryakumar Yadav's 44-ball 76 and Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 26-ball 33 to chase down the score in 19 overs with seven wickets to spare. Captain Rohit couldn't do much as he retired hurt for 11 due to back spasm. Despite his short stay in the middle, the 35-year-old surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to attain an elite feat as the Indian captain. ALSO READ | Suryakumar Yadav guides India to victory over West Indies to take 2-1 series lead Hitman now has most number of sixes as Indian captain in the shortest format. He was tied with Kohli at 59 sixes before taking his tally to 60 prior to his injury forcing him out of the field. Rohit has 60 sixes in 34 innings as captain, with Kohli (59) and MS Dhoni (34) following suit. Rohit also opined on his injury after the conclusion of the match. "It's okay at the moment. We've got a few days till the next game, hopefully it should be okay (his injury)." The Indian captain lauded his team for bouncing back swiftly to take a 2-1 lead in the five T20Is. In this regard, he stated, "How we bowled in the middle overs was crucial. I thought we used the conditions well. Used the variations well. Was very clinical how we chased. When you watched from the outside, didn't feel a lot of risk was taken, was a lot of calmness in the middle. Surya batted brilliantly, good partnership there with Iyer. The pitch had something in it for the bowlers, not an easy target. Was important to pick the right shots, right balls on a ground like that." The fourth and penultimate match will be held in Florida on August 06 (Saturday).

WI vs IND, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma goes past Virat Kohli to achieve elite feat as Indian skipper

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt message on social media as he extended wishes to the Indian football team skipper and his good friend Sunil Chhetri on his 38th birthday. The Indian football great turned 38 on Wednesday (August 03). Chhetri and Kohli share a great bond between them and have developed a good friendship over the years.

They are two of the most loved sporting icons in the country and are the leaders in their respective sports. While Kohli is regarded as one of the best batters of all time, Chettri is considered India's greatest footballer and is also the country's highest goalscorer at the international level.

Wishing him on his 38th birthday, Kohli told Chettri he is glad to have the friendship the duo have and lauded the Indian football team skipper for his hard work and compassion.

"An honestly hardworking man full of good values &amp; compassion. A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip. Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes &amp; all the positivity your way. Happy birthday @chetrisunil11," Kohli wrote in a tweet.

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An honestly hardworking man full of good values &amp; compassion.A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip.Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes &amp; all the positivity your way. Happy birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chetrisunil11</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1554744272955461635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-unacceptable-man-utd-boss-erik-ten-hag-slams-cristiano-ronaldo-for-leaving-game-before-final-whistle-503284">'It's unacceptable': Man Utd boss Erik Ten Hag slams Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving game before final whistle</a>

Chettri was quick to respond to Kohli's tweet and thanked him for his kind words. "Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did," wrote the Indian football captain responding to Kohli's tweet.

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Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did.
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11/status/1554776253495853056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Chettri and Kohli have often exchanged comments on social media in the past and the duo miss no chance to pull each other's leg. Chhetri currently plays for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League and is also India's first-choice striker despite being 38. He is also India's most-capped player along with being the leading goal-scorer for the country.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-becomes-first-indian-player-to-achieve-rare-double-in-mens-t20is-503259">Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is</a>

While Chhetri will be seen in action next when the new season of the Indian Super League kick off later this year, Kohli will make his comeback for the Indian cricket team during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022. The Indian batter has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt message on social media as he extended wishes to the Indian football team skipper and his good friend Sunil Chhetri on his 38th birthday.

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt message on social media as he extended wishes to the Indian football team skipper and his good friend Sunil Chhetri on his 38th birthday. The Indian football great turned 38 on Wednesday (August 03). Chhetri and Kohli share a great bond between them and have developed a good friendship over the years. They are two of the most loved sporting icons in the country and are the leaders in their respective sports. While Kohli is regarded as one of the best batters of all time, Chettri is considered India's greatest footballer and is also the country's highest goalscorer at the international level. Wishing him on his 38th birthday, Kohli told Chettri he is glad to have the friendship the duo have and lauded the Indian football team skipper for his hard work and compassion. "An honestly hardworking man full of good values & compassion. A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip. Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes & all the positivity your way. Happy birthday @chetrisunil11," Kohli wrote in a tweet. An honestly hardworking man full of good values & compassion.A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip.Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes & all the positivity your way. Happy birthday @chetrisunil11 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 3, 2022 × Also Read: 'It's unacceptable': Man Utd boss Erik Ten Hag slams Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving game before final whistle Chettri was quick to respond to Kohli's tweet and thanked him for his kind words. "Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did," wrote the Indian football captain responding to Kohli's tweet. Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did. — Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) August 3, 2022 × Chettri and Kohli have often exchanged comments on social media in the past and the duo miss no chance to pull each other's leg. Chhetri currently plays for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League and is also India's first-choice striker despite being 38. He is also India's most-capped player along with being the leading goal-scorer for the country. Also Read: Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is While Chhetri will be seen in action next when the new season of the Indian Super League kick off later this year, Kohli will make his comeback for the Indian cricket team during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022. The Indian batter has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

'Grateful for friendship we have skip': Virat Kohli posts heartfelt birthday wish for Sunil Chhetri

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team management's decision to provide frequent breaks to senior batter Virat Kohli. Kohli has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies and is currently not in action for the Men in Blue. Kohli has already missed a host of series for India in 2022.

The former India captain had missed the South Africa limited-overs series at home after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he had an average campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He was not part of India's tour of Ireland and has also missed the ODI and T20I series on the team's ongoing tour of the West Indies.

Amid his lean patch for the Indian team, questions have been raised over Kohli's continuous breaks with many believing the senior batter should rather try to play more matches to regain his form. Former India cricketer Manjrekar has echoed similar sentiments and questioned Kohli's frequent breaks for the Indian team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-spoil-suryakumar-yadav-kris-srikanth-slams-rohit-sharma-for-opening-experiment-vs-west-indies-502882">‘Don’t spoil Suryakumar Yadav’: Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies</a>

Manjrekar cited the example of Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was struggling with his form last year but managed to make a strong comeback by playing more matches and is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year.

“Bhuvneshwar Kumar recently gave an interview, and he is at his peak at the moment. Eighteen months back, we thought he may not have an international career. But, he has bounced back superbly and is a certainty to make the T20 world cup squad. And he said, the more I bowl, the more I got my rhythm," Manjrekar told Sports18.

"I think they should have played Virat Kohli in every International match possible, whatever the format because Virat has had his breaks. People are advocating that he should take some breaks and he's had his breaks,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-full-schedule-india-to-take-on-pakistan-in-blockbuster-clash-on-august-28-502902">Asia Cup 2022 full schedule: India to take on Pakistan in blockbuster clash on August 28</a>

The cricketer-turned commentator pointed out how Kohli has not played much international cricket over the last couple of years and said in his personal view, it would have been better for the senior batter had he played more matches for the Indian team.

“If you look at the last two years, he's not played a lot of International cricket. Maybe there's some logic there that we don't know about. Maybe they had a chat with Virat Kohli, but my personal view is the more Virat Kohli would’ve played and especially these matches would've been better for him and Bhuvneshwar Kumar clearly has said like it is with a lot of players when you're going through a rut, the best way to come out of the rut is by playing. So, hopefully, that will happen soon," said Manjrekar.

Along with Kohli, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, captain Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant had also been rested from the ODI series against West Indies last month. However, Rohit and Pant made their comebacks in the ongoing T20I series. Kohli is also set to miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is likely to make his comeback at the Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team management's decision to provide frequent breaks to senior batter Virat Kohli. Kohli has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies and is currently not in action for the Men in Blue.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team management's decision to provide frequent breaks to senior batter Virat Kohli. Kohli has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies and is currently not in action for the Men in Blue. Kohli has already missed a host of series for India in 2022. The former India captain had missed the South Africa limited-overs series at home after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he had an average campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He was not part of India's tour of Ireland and has also missed the ODI and T20I series on the team's ongoing tour of the West Indies. Amid his lean patch for the Indian team, questions have been raised over Kohli's continuous breaks with many believing the senior batter should rather try to play more matches to regain his form. Former India cricketer Manjrekar has echoed similar sentiments and questioned Kohli's frequent breaks for the Indian team. Also Read: ‘Don’t spoil Suryakumar Yadav’: Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies Manjrekar cited the example of Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was struggling with his form last year but managed to make a strong comeback by playing more matches and is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. “Bhuvneshwar Kumar recently gave an interview, and he is at his peak at the moment. Eighteen months back, we thought he may not have an international career. But, he has bounced back superbly and is a certainty to make the T20 world cup squad. And he said, the more I bowl, the more I got my rhythm," Manjrekar told Sports18. "I think they should have played Virat Kohli in every International match possible, whatever the format because Virat has had his breaks. People are advocating that he should take some breaks and he's had his breaks,” he added. Also Read: Asia Cup 2022 full schedule: India to take on Pakistan in blockbuster clash on August 28 The cricketer-turned commentator pointed out how Kohli has not played much international cricket over the last couple of years and said in his personal view, it would have been better for the senior batter had he played more matches for the Indian team. “If you look at the last two years, he's not played a lot of International cricket. Maybe there's some logic there that we don't know about. Maybe they had a chat with Virat Kohli, but my personal view is the more Virat Kohli would’ve played and especially these matches would've been better for him and Bhuvneshwar Kumar clearly has said like it is with a lot of players when you're going through a rut, the best way to come out of the rut is by playing. So, hopefully, that will happen soon," said Manjrekar. Along with Kohli, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, captain Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant had also been rested from the ODI series against West Indies last month. However, Rohit and Pant made their comebacks in the ongoing T20I series. Kohli is also set to miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is likely to make his comeback at the Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

Virat should have played every match possible: Sanjay Manjrekar questions Kohli's frequent breaks for India

Amid calls for Virat Kohli to be dropped from India's T20I squad over his ongoing lean patch, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed the senior batter to retain his no.3 spot in the batting lineup at the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Jaffer believes Kohli will keep his original no.3 spot despite poor form in international cricket at present.

Kohli has been enduring a lean patch across all formats for the Indian team for a while now and has been far from consistent with the willow. He has also struggled to notch up big scores for the team and his last international century for India came in November 2019.&nbsp;

The senior Indian batter's form came under the scanner during India's tour of England earlier this year where he flopped in all three formats before being rested from India's onging tour of West Indies. Kohli will miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is expected to make his comeback for the Asia Cup 2022 next month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/behave-like-a-human-being-shahid-afridi-on-city-biases-in-pakistan-team-selection-502602">'Behave like a human being' - Shahid Afridi on 'city biases' in Pakistan team selection</a>

Despite his woeful form, Jaffer has backed Kohli to be India's no.3 at the T20 World Cup Down Under. The former India cricketer also feels captain Rohit Sharma will open the batting with KL Rahul in the tournament and believes the likes of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson can play key roles for the team.

“Virat will remain in his original No. 3 place in the team. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma should open, and other players like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan can contribute significantly to the squad. I feel that the aggressive approach that India has undertaken is very nice to witness. India’s chances of winning (T20 World Cup) are bright," Jaffer said on the ‘CricChat Powered by Parimatch’ podcast on the Sharechat app.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luckily-dinesh-karthik-was-born-in-india-former-pakistan-captain-aims-brutal-dig-at-pcb-502298">'Luckily, Dinesh Karthik was born in India': Former Pakistan captain aims brutal dig at PCB</a>

Kohli is currently enjoying his break with his family and will be eager to regain his form when he makes his comeback for Team India in the upcoming Asia Cup. Kohli was rested from the last edition of the Asia Cup in 2018 where Rohit Sharma led India to victory. The former captain will be hoping for redemption in the tournament this year.

Amid calls for Virat Kohli to be dropped from India's T20I squad over his ongoing lean patch, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed the senior batter to retain his no.

Amid calls for Virat Kohli to be dropped from India's T20I squad over his ongoing lean patch, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed the senior batter to retain his no.3 spot in the batting lineup at the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Jaffer believes Kohli will keep his original no.3 spot despite poor form in international cricket at present. Kohli has been enduring a lean patch across all formats for the Indian team for a while now and has been far from consistent with the willow. He has also struggled to notch up big scores for the team and his last international century for India came in November 2019. The senior Indian batter's form came under the scanner during India's tour of England earlier this year where he flopped in all three formats before being rested from India's onging tour of West Indies. Kohli will miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is expected to make his comeback for the Asia Cup 2022 next month. Also Read: 'Behave like a human being' - Shahid Afridi on 'city biases' in Pakistan team selection Despite his woeful form, Jaffer has backed Kohli to be India's no.3 at the T20 World Cup Down Under. The former India cricketer also feels captain Rohit Sharma will open the batting with KL Rahul in the tournament and believes the likes of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson can play key roles for the team. “Virat will remain in his original No. 3 place in the team. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma should open, and other players like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan can contribute significantly to the squad. I feel that the aggressive approach that India has undertaken is very nice to witness. India’s chances of winning (T20 World Cup) are bright," Jaffer said on the ‘CricChat Powered by Parimatch’ podcast on the Sharechat app. Also Read: 'Luckily, Dinesh Karthik was born in India': Former Pakistan captain aims brutal dig at PCB Kohli is currently enjoying his break with his family and will be eager to regain his form when he makes his comeback for Team India in the upcoming Asia Cup. Kohli was rested from the last edition of the Asia Cup in 2018 where Rohit Sharma led India to victory. The former captain will be hoping for redemption in the tournament this year.

Virat Kohli will remain at no.3: Wasim Jaffer on ex-India captain's batting spot for T20 World Cup 2022

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances.

It is understood that Rahul hasn’t yet recovered despite undergoing a successful sports hernia surgery for lower abdominal injury. His hamstring also remains sore. India will play 3 ODIs in Zimbabwe on August 18, 20 and 22.

“I wanted to clarify a couple of things about my health and fitness. My surgery in June was successful and I had begun my training with hope of returning to national duty for the tour of West Indies. Unfortunately as I was returning to full fitness, I tested positive for Covid-19,” he tweeted.

He expressed hope of coming back for Asia Cup in UAE. “This naturally pushes things back by a couple of weeks but I aim to recover as quickly as possible and be available for selection as quickly as I can,” he further wrote. 
 
“To represent the country is highest honour and I cannot wait to get out there back in blue.”

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-can-stop-him-now-bcci-selector-on-dinesh-karthiks-chances-of-making-it-to-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-501989">'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

Off-spinner Washington Sundar, who has made a stellar start to his English county career with Lancashire is back in the squad along with seamer Deepak Chahar after successful completion of his rehabilitation following hamstring and back injuries.

Chahar has not played competitive cricket for five months now and also missed the 2022 IPL season. “KL Rahul has recovered from Covid-19 but his hamstring injury seems to have resurfaced. He was supposed to be picked for Zimbabwe but now one can’t put a date on his comeback,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have all been rested from the tour as ODIs aren’t top priority for the side with less than three months left for the World T20.

“Virat had spoken to selectors that he would be available from the Asia Cup onwards. The first team players will hardly get rest from Asia Cup till end of World T20. Hence this is a two-week window after Windies tour when they can rest,” the source said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-need-dravids-thinking-kris-srikanth-criticises-india-for-picking-iyer-over-hooda-in-1st-t20i-502006">'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I</a>

Washington’s comeback was on expected lines as he has had a rough last one year due to a hand injury and contracting Covid-19. He has had a successful rehabilitation at NCA and in the three games that he has played for Lancashire, he has already picked up a five-wicket haul.

“In case of Washington it was never about how but when would he comeback as he has been India’s No. 1 finger spinner. He needed game time which he got,” the source added.

As usual Shikhar Dhawan will lead the side in Rohit, Rahul and Pant’s absence. Most of the players who had been part of set-up have been picked with rookie Rahul Tripathi, after being part of squad in Ireland T20Is, getting maiden call up to the ODI side.

India’s squad for 3 ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Deepak Chahar. 
&nbsp;

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances.

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances. It is understood that Rahul hasn’t yet recovered despite undergoing a successful sports hernia surgery for lower abdominal injury. His hamstring also remains sore. India will play 3 ODIs in Zimbabwe on August 18, 20 and 22. “I wanted to clarify a couple of things about my health and fitness. My surgery in June was successful and I had begun my training with hope of returning to national duty for the tour of West Indies. Unfortunately as I was returning to full fitness, I tested positive for Covid-19,” he tweeted. He expressed hope of coming back for Asia Cup in UAE. “This naturally pushes things back by a couple of weeks but I aim to recover as quickly as possible and be available for selection as quickly as I can,” he further wrote. “To represent the country is highest honour and I cannot wait to get out there back in blue.” pic.twitter.com/2ULENT5Puk — K L Rahul (@klrahul) July 30, 2022 × Also Read: 'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad Off-spinner Washington Sundar, who has made a stellar start to his English county career with Lancashire is back in the squad along with seamer Deepak Chahar after successful completion of his rehabilitation following hamstring and back injuries. Chahar has not played competitive cricket for five months now and also missed the 2022 IPL season. “KL Rahul has recovered from Covid-19 but his hamstring injury seems to have resurfaced. He was supposed to be picked for Zimbabwe but now one can’t put a date on his comeback,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on Saturday. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have all been rested from the tour as ODIs aren’t top priority for the side with less than three months left for the World T20. “Virat had spoken to selectors that he would be available from the Asia Cup onwards. The first team players will hardly get rest from Asia Cup till end of World T20. Hence this is a two-week window after Windies tour when they can rest,” the source said. Also Read: 'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I Washington’s comeback was on expected lines as he has had a rough last one year due to a hand injury and contracting Covid-19. He has had a successful rehabilitation at NCA and in the three games that he has played for Lancashire, he has already picked up a five-wicket haul. “In case of Washington it was never about how but when would he comeback as he has been India’s No. 1 finger spinner. He needed game time which he got,” the source added. As usual Shikhar Dhawan will lead the side in Rohit, Rahul and Pant’s absence. Most of the players who had been part of set-up have been picked with rookie Rahul Tripathi, after being part of squad in Ireland T20Is, getting maiden call up to the ODI side. India’s squad for 3 ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Deepak Chahar.

KL Rahul to miss Zimbabwe tour due to delayed recovery; Sundar, Chahar return to ODI squad

Virat Kohli's form continues to be a cause of concern for Team India and its ardent fans. While Kohli is out of action at present and isn't part of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s white-ball tour of the West Indies, the 33-year-old continues to make headlines as many former cricketers and experts share their views and give advises to the star batter on how to regain his form.

Many former players have commented on Kohli's recent rut. In the recent England tour, he returned without a single half-century across format whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. His dismissals are of similar pattern, poking at deliveries outside the off-stump, hence, many have opined on his lack of runs. Recently, when a journalist asked former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi to comment on Kohli's struggles, the legendary cricketer gave a befitting reply.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-odis-i-will-when-virat-kohli-made-bold-claim-of-emulating-sachin-tendulkars-50-over-heroics-501505">'In ODIs, I will....' - When Virat Kohli made bold claim of emulating Sachin Tendulkar's 50-over heroics</a>

"Usne mere mashware ko kya dekhna hai (Why would he care about my advice?). He has to perform because the expectations from him are so high. And for a very long time, there has been no performance from him according to the standards that he has set for himself," Afridi was seen replying to reporters' questions in&nbsp;a video which was shared&nbsp;by Sports Paktv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-the-best-modern-day-player-in-last-10-years-former-pakistan-batter-praises-under-fire-virat-kohli-501465">He is the best modern-day player in last 10 years: Former Pakistan batter praises under-fire Virat Kohli</a>

Afridi also opined on India-Pakistan's upcoming clash in the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be held in the shortest format, in the UAE. Both sides are expected to meet more than once before also locking horns in the forthcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, from October-November.

"As far as the Pakistan team is concerned, it is a balanced side. I hope that not only in the Asia Cup but even in the World Cup, our performances will be good. I hope the players are fit, because I don't see much strength on the bench. But the 11-12 first-team players that we have, they are very strong and I hope they will bring in good results,"&nbsp;the former captain added.

Virat Kohli's form continues to be a cause of concern for Team India and its ardent fans. While Kohli is out of action at present and isn't part of Rohit Sharma & Co.

Virat Kohli's form continues to be a cause of concern for Team India and its ardent fans. While Kohli is out of action at present and isn't part of Rohit Sharma & Co.'s white-ball tour of the West Indies, the 33-year-old continues to make headlines as many former cricketers and experts share their views and give advises to the star batter on how to regain his form. Many former players have commented on Kohli's recent rut. In the recent England tour, he returned without a single half-century across format whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. His dismissals are of similar pattern, poking at deliveries outside the off-stump, hence, many have opined on his lack of runs. Recently, when a journalist asked former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi to comment on Kohli's struggles, the legendary cricketer gave a befitting reply. ALSO READ | 'In ODIs, I will....' - When Virat Kohli made bold claim of emulating Sachin Tendulkar's 50-over heroics "Usne mere mashware ko kya dekhna hai (Why would he care about my advice?). He has to perform because the expectations from him are so high. And for a very long time, there has been no performance from him according to the standards that he has set for himself," Afridi was seen replying to reporters' questions in a video which was shared by Sports Paktv. ALSO READ | He is the best modern-day player in last 10 years: Former Pakistan batter praises under-fire Virat Kohli Afridi also opined on India-Pakistan's upcoming clash in the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be held in the shortest format, in the UAE. Both sides are expected to meet more than once before also locking horns in the forthcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, from October-November. "As far as the Pakistan team is concerned, it is a balanced side. I hope that not only in the Asia Cup but even in the World Cup, our performances will be good. I hope the players are fit, because I don't see much strength on the bench. But the 11-12 first-team players that we have, they are very strong and I hope they will bring in good results," the former captain added.

'Why would he care.....?' Shahid Afridi gives savage response on being asked about Virat Kohli's form

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