<p>Virat Kohli's forms struggles remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he even failed to score a fifty across formats in the England tour. Thus, the BCCI selection committee have given Kohli some time off during India's white-ball tour of West Indies, which gets underway on July 22.</p>

<p>Even though Kohli will be out of action and is expected to return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the 2022 Asia Cup, in late August, former cricketers and experts continue to shed light on the former Indian skipper's poor run of form. Dilip Vengsarkar, India's former captain and chief selector, opened up in this regard and cited Sachin Tendulkar's example while mentioning how Kohli can tackle playing the balls outside off-stump line.</p>

<p>"If you take the example of Sachin Tendulkar in 2004, he was getting out in the same way in Australia. So, he cut off that scoring area completely and scored 241 in the last Test match of that series without playing the cover drive. Similarly, Virat also has the ability to do the same. He needs to work hard in that area and play effectively," Vengsarkar told&nbsp;<em>Khaleej Times</em>.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-churns-out-a-whopping-sum-for-shikhar-dhawan-led-indias-flight-to-west-indies-report-499454"><strong>BCCI churns out a whopping sum for Shikhar Dhawan-led India's flight to West Indies: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Kohli has been getting out in a similar fashion match after match -- playing deliveries on the fourth or fifth-stump line. Hence, Vengsarkar feels the superstar cricketer should take a leaf from SRT's memorable unbeaten 241-run knock versus Australia in the fourth and final Test, at SCG, Sydney, in the 2003/04 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Back then, a struggling Tendulkar hadn't attempted playing a single delivery outside the off-stump line before settling in as he went onto play a majestic knock.</p>


Virat Kohli's forms struggles remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he even failed to score a fifty across formats in the England tour.

Virat Kohli's forms struggles remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he even failed to score a fifty across formats in the England tour. Thus, the BCCI selection committee have given Kohli some time off during India's white-ball tour of West Indies, which gets underway on July 22. Even though Kohli will be out of action and is expected to return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the 2022 Asia Cup, in late August, former cricketers and experts continue to shed light on the former Indian skipper's poor run of form. Dilip Vengsarkar, India's former captain and chief selector, opened up in this regard and cited Sachin Tendulkar's example while mentioning how Kohli can tackle playing the balls outside off-stump line. "If you take the example of Sachin Tendulkar in 2004, he was getting out in the same way in Australia. So, he cut off that scoring area completely and scored 241 in the last Test match of that series without playing the cover drive. Similarly, Virat also has the ability to do the same. He needs to work hard in that area and play effectively," Vengsarkar told Khaleej Times. ALSO READ | BCCI churns out a whopping sum for Shikhar Dhawan-led India's flight to West Indies: Report Kohli has been getting out in a similar fashion match after match -- playing deliveries on the fourth or fifth-stump line. Hence, Vengsarkar feels the superstar cricketer should take a leaf from SRT's memorable unbeaten 241-run knock versus Australia in the fourth and final Test, at SCG, Sydney, in the 2003/04 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Back then, a struggling Tendulkar hadn't attempted playing a single delivery outside the off-stump line before settling in as he went onto play a majestic knock.

How should Kohli tackle off-stump line bowling? Ex-India captain urges batter to learn from Tendulkar

<p>On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked&nbsp;when he announced&nbsp;that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday).</p>

<p>At 31, Stokes is one of the fittest athletes in world cricket. The all-rounder has already won an ODI World Cup medal, in 2019, has over 5,000 runs in Tests and was also part of Eoin Morgan-led England's 2016 T20 World Cup campaign, where Stokes' 19-run final over in the summit clash conceded the trophy to West Indies. The English star cricketer is easily one of the ambassadors of the game and an integral part of his national side across formats. Then, what led to the recently-appointed Test captain retiring from ODIs?</p>

<p>Stokes recently opened up on his ODI retirement&nbsp;and&nbsp;told&nbsp;BBC's Test Match Special, "The more cricket that is played, the better for the sport, but you want a product that is of the highest quality. You want the best players to be playing as much as you possibly can, all the time."</p>

<p>"It isn't just me or us, you see it all around the world now where teams are having to rest some players in a certain series so they feel like they are getting a break. We are not cars, you can't just fill us up and we'll go out there and be ready to be fuelled up again."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-what-happened-to-virat-kohli-kane-williamson-nasser-hussain-reacts-to-ben-stokes-odi-retirement-499106"><strong>Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement</strong></a></p>

<p>In his column for The Daily Mail, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain also pointed out,&nbsp;"Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is."</p>

<p>"Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned.</p>

<p>"Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format,"&nbsp;added the former right-handed batsman.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-standing-ovation-for-ben-stokes-as-he-comes-out-to-bat-in-farewell-odi-during-sa-series-opener-499124"><strong>Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener</strong></a></p>

<p>Thus, Stokes' retirement leads to a burning question: is there too much cricket being played nowadays? Well, the answer to this is a straightforward YES. For the unversed, England have so far already played four Tests (three versus New Zealand, one against India), seven ODIs (three each versus Netherlands,&nbsp;India and one versus SA, with two more on cards) and three T20Is (with an equal number of them to follow suit versus the Proteas) in ongoing 2022 home summer.</p>

<p>The emergence of franchise cricket has surely been a huge boon for the game, tapping into new territories, seeing the emergence of new star players worldwide, and expanding the overall market. However, for any franchise cricket to be a hit, it needs a starry presence and, hence, many top players' participation is ultimately adding to their workload.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greatest-ever-ben-stokes-responds-to-virat-kohlis-message-ahead-of-his-last-odi-for-england-498914">'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England</a></strong></p>

<p>Even in the IPL, it is almost mandatory for the likes of Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, etc., to make their presence felt due to their huge demand. Thus, they end up picking and choosing games at the international level. With ICC's schedule also not helping one bit -- with too many bilaterals lined up along with a&nbsp;mega event&nbsp;each year till 2031 -- players need to take care of themselves and, hence, ask for frequent rests to remain fit and fresh, keep their passion and intensity for the game alive and kicking as well as&nbsp;deliver the goods.</p>

<p>With so much at stake in every level, it is the players who are being used as puppets -- being asked to move&nbsp;around and dance to the tunes of rigorous schedules across formats. Players are the tools by which the game expands. However, they are certainly&nbsp;not machines for churning out huge profits along with&nbsp;being also expected to perform in all formats at the international level.</p>

<p>Thus, it won't be surprising that Stokes might go onto be the first of many all-format players who will retire from a particular format to prolong their respective careers. The all-rounder has&nbsp;surprised only those who are oblivious to the extensively gruelling demands of the modern-day game. His decision isn't really a shocker. It might just be the start of an unwanted trend.</p>


On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked when he announced that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday).

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked when he announced that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday). At 31, Stokes is one of the fittest athletes in world cricket. The all-rounder has already won an ODI World Cup medal, in 2019, has over 5,000 runs in Tests and was also part of Eoin Morgan-led England's 2016 T20 World Cup campaign, where Stokes' 19-run final over in the summit clash conceded the trophy to West Indies. The English star cricketer is easily one of the ambassadors of the game and an integral part of his national side across formats. Then, what led to the recently-appointed Test captain retiring from ODIs? Stokes recently opened up on his ODI retirement and told BBC's Test Match Special, "The more cricket that is played, the better for the sport, but you want a product that is of the highest quality. You want the best players to be playing as much as you possibly can, all the time." "It isn't just me or us, you see it all around the world now where teams are having to rest some players in a certain series so they feel like they are getting a break. We are not cars, you can't just fill us up and we'll go out there and be ready to be fuelled up again." ALSO READ | Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement In his column for The Daily Mail, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain also pointed out, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is." "Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned. "Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," added the former right-handed batsman. ALSO READ | Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener Thus, Stokes' retirement leads to a burning question: is there too much cricket being played nowadays? Well, the answer to this is a straightforward YES. For the unversed, England have so far already played four Tests (three versus New Zealand, one against India), seven ODIs (three each versus Netherlands, India and one versus SA, with two more on cards) and three T20Is (with an equal number of them to follow suit versus the Proteas) in ongoing 2022 home summer. The emergence of franchise cricket has surely been a huge boon for the game, tapping into new territories, seeing the emergence of new star players worldwide, and expanding the overall market. However, for any franchise cricket to be a hit, it needs a starry presence and, hence, many top players' participation is ultimately adding to their workload. ALSO READ | 'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England Even in the IPL, it is almost mandatory for the likes of Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, etc., to make their presence felt due to their huge demand. Thus, they end up picking and choosing games at the international level. With ICC's schedule also not helping one bit -- with too many bilaterals lined up along with a mega event each year till 2031 -- players need to take care of themselves and, hence, ask for frequent rests to remain fit and fresh, keep their passion and intensity for the game alive and kicking as well as deliver the goods. With so much at stake in every level, it is the players who are being used as puppets -- being asked to move around and dance to the tunes of rigorous schedules across formats. Players are the tools by which the game expands. However, they are certainly not machines for churning out huge profits along with being also expected to perform in all formats at the international level. Thus, it won't be surprising that Stokes might go onto be the first of many all-format players who will retire from a particular format to prolong their respective careers. The all-rounder has surprised only those who are oblivious to the extensively gruelling demands of the modern-day game. His decision isn't really a shocker. It might just be the start of an unwanted trend.

Beware world cricket! Ben Stokes might be first of many to give up a format to ensure longevity

<p>Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Indian selectors and team management to stick with Virat Kohli despite his ongoing lean patch for the Indian team. Kohli has been far from his best for quite a while now and has struggled to score runs consistently in all three formats of the game. His woeful run extended in India's recently-concluded tour of England.</p>

<p>Kohli managed to score only 75 runs in six innings for India across all three formats against England in what was a disastrous tour for the former India captain. His poor form has also raised questions over his spot in India's T20 team with many against the idea of his inclusion in the squad for T20 World Cup 2022 later this year.</p>

<p>However, Ponting believes Kohli needs to be backed by India at this crucial juncture in his career. The former Australia captain said he would be fearing an Indian team that has Kohli in it if he was an opposition player or a captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think if I was an opposition captain or an opposition player, I will be fearing playing an Indian team that has Virat Kohli in it, more than I would be one that doesn’t have him in it. I know there have been some challenges for him, it’s been a difficult time," Ponting said speaking to the ICC Review.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greatest-ever-ben-stokes-responds-to-virat-kohlis-message-ahead-of-his-last-odi-for-england-498914">'One of the greatest ever': Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England</a></p>

<p>The legendary Australian cricket also explained how almost every cricketer goes through a rough phase in their career and the good ones always find a way back. Ponting believes it's only a matter of time before Kohli can bounce back and get back among the runs for India.</p>

<p>"But every great player that I have seen in this game has been through it at some stage, whether that’s a batsman or a bowler, they have all been through it. And somehow, the best (players) find a way to rebound and respond, and it’s only a matter of time before Virat does that," said Ponting.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/selectors-want-struggling-virat-kohli-to-play-odi-series-against-zimbwbwe-to-regain-form-report-499156">Selectors want struggling Virat Kohli to play ODI series against Zimbabwe to regain form - Report</a></p>

<p>Ponting also reckoned it will be tough for Kohli to make his comeback into the T20I team if he is dropped from the squad once and is not part of the T20 World Cup 2022 squad. The former Australia captain has urged the Indian team management to instead back the star batter and make life easy for him in the build-up to the showpiece event.</p>

<p>"If you leave Virat out of the eve of the World Cup, and someone comes in and has a reasonable tournament, it will be hard for Virat to get back in it," said Ponting.</p>

<p>"If I was India, I will keep pushing with him, because I know the upside. If they actually get him back confident and playing as well as he can, that upside is better than most. So I think if I was a captain or a coach around the Indian set up, I will be making life as easy as possible for him to feel as comfortable as possible, and just wait for him to flick the switch and start scoring runs again," he added.</p>


Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Indian selectors and team management to stick with Virat Kohli despite his ongoing lean patch for the Indian team.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Indian selectors and team management to stick with Virat Kohli despite his ongoing lean patch for the Indian team. Kohli has been far from his best for quite a while now and has struggled to score runs consistently in all three formats of the game. His woeful run extended in India's recently-concluded tour of England. Kohli managed to score only 75 runs in six innings for India across all three formats against England in what was a disastrous tour for the former India captain. His poor form has also raised questions over his spot in India's T20 team with many against the idea of his inclusion in the squad for T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. However, Ponting believes Kohli needs to be backed by India at this crucial juncture in his career. The former Australia captain said he would be fearing an Indian team that has Kohli in it if he was an opposition player or a captain. "I think if I was an opposition captain or an opposition player, I will be fearing playing an Indian team that has Virat Kohli in it, more than I would be one that doesn’t have him in it. I know there have been some challenges for him, it’s been a difficult time," Ponting said speaking to the ICC Review. Also Read: 'One of the greatest ever': Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England The legendary Australian cricket also explained how almost every cricketer goes through a rough phase in their career and the good ones always find a way back. Ponting believes it's only a matter of time before Kohli can bounce back and get back among the runs for India. "But every great player that I have seen in this game has been through it at some stage, whether that’s a batsman or a bowler, they have all been through it. And somehow, the best (players) find a way to rebound and respond, and it’s only a matter of time before Virat does that," said Ponting. Also Read: Selectors want struggling Virat Kohli to play ODI series against Zimbabwe to regain form - Report Ponting also reckoned it will be tough for Kohli to make his comeback into the T20I team if he is dropped from the squad once and is not part of the T20 World Cup 2022 squad. The former Australia captain has urged the Indian team management to instead back the star batter and make life easy for him in the build-up to the showpiece event. "If you leave Virat out of the eve of the World Cup, and someone comes in and has a reasonable tournament, it will be hard for Virat to get back in it," said Ponting. "If I was India, I will keep pushing with him, because I know the upside. If they actually get him back confident and playing as well as he can, that upside is better than most. So I think if I was a captain or a coach around the Indian set up, I will be making life as easy as possible for him to feel as comfortable as possible, and just wait for him to flick the switch and start scoring runs again," he added.

I will be fearing an Indian team that has Virat Kohli in it: Ricky Ponting urges India to not drop star batter

<p>Team India is all set to tour Zimbabwe for the first time in six years. The Men in Blue will play a three-match ODI series against the hosts starting on August 18. While there are rumours that senior batter Virat Kohli might skip the series along with several other first-choice players, the Indian selectors reportedly want the senior batter on the plane to Zimbabwe.</p>

<p>India are expected to field a second-string squad against Zimbabwe but Kohli is likely to feature amid his struggles across formats. He has not been in top-notch form for quite a while now and has been struggling for consistency for the Indian team. After a poor IPL 2022 campaign, his woeful run continued in India's recently-concluded tour of England.</p>

<p>As per a report in Insidesport, the Indian selectors want Kohli to not skip the Zimbabwe ODI series and play there in order to regain his form ahead of the Asia Cup 2022. Kohli was earlier expected to rest after the England tour and make his return in the Asia Cup. However, it seems he might feature in India's ODI series against Zimbabwe.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-standing-ovation-for-ben-stokes-as-he-comes-out-to-bat-in-farewell-odi-during-sa-series-opener-499124">Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener</a></p>

<p>“Hopefully, the break allows him to rejuvenate mentally and get his form back. But without any competitive cricket, it will be difficult and that is why we want him to play against Zimbabwe. It’s his preferred format and will help him regain his form before the Asia Cup. We will take a final decision close to the selection,” a member of the Indian selection committee was quoted as saying by <em>InsideSport</em>.</p>

<p>Kohli will miss India's upcoming ODI and T20I series against West Indies which gets underway from July 22. Along with Kohli, several senior Indian players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami among others will miss the ODI series. However, in T20Is, only Kohli and Bumrah have been rested with Rohit returning to lead the side.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-what-happened-to-virat-kohli-kane-williamson-nasser-hussain-reacts-to-ben-stokes-odi-retirement-499106">Look what happened to Kohli, Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement</a></p>

<p>Amid his ongoing lean patch, there have been questions raised over Kohli's spot in India's T20I team and it will be crucial for the senior batter to regain his touch against Zimbabwe if he is aked to play the series. Kohli will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround and gain some form ahead of the Asia Cup 2022.</p>


Team India is all set to tour Zimbabwe for the first time in six years. The Men in Blue will play a three-match ODI series against the hosts starting on August 18.

Team India is all set to tour Zimbabwe for the first time in six years. The Men in Blue will play a three-match ODI series against the hosts starting on August 18. While there are rumours that senior batter Virat Kohli might skip the series along with several other first-choice players, the Indian selectors reportedly want the senior batter on the plane to Zimbabwe. India are expected to field a second-string squad against Zimbabwe but Kohli is likely to feature amid his struggles across formats. He has not been in top-notch form for quite a while now and has been struggling for consistency for the Indian team. After a poor IPL 2022 campaign, his woeful run continued in India's recently-concluded tour of England. As per a report in Insidesport, the Indian selectors want Kohli to not skip the Zimbabwe ODI series and play there in order to regain his form ahead of the Asia Cup 2022. Kohli was earlier expected to rest after the England tour and make his return in the Asia Cup. However, it seems he might feature in India's ODI series against Zimbabwe. Also Read: Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener “Hopefully, the break allows him to rejuvenate mentally and get his form back. But without any competitive cricket, it will be difficult and that is why we want him to play against Zimbabwe. It’s his preferred format and will help him regain his form before the Asia Cup. We will take a final decision close to the selection,” a member of the Indian selection committee was quoted as saying by InsideSport. Kohli will miss India's upcoming ODI and T20I series against West Indies which gets underway from July 22. Along with Kohli, several senior Indian players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami among others will miss the ODI series. However, in T20Is, only Kohli and Bumrah have been rested with Rohit returning to lead the side. Also Read: Look what happened to Kohli, Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement Amid his ongoing lean patch, there have been questions raised over Kohli's spot in India's T20I team and it will be crucial for the senior batter to regain his touch against Zimbabwe if he is aked to play the series. Kohli will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround and gain some form ahead of the Asia Cup 2022.

Selectors want struggling Virat Kohli to play ODI series against Zimbabwe to regain form - Report

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Former Indian captain Virat Kohli is struggling for big knocks at the highest level, with his century-drought nearing 1,000 days. For how long will Kohli be persisted and when will he finally regain form? Only time will tell...

Nearing 1,000 days without an international ton: What's wrong with Virat Kohli?

<p>Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18), a day after India won the 50-over series versus hosts Jos Buttler-led England (also a day prior to English side's ongoing home ODIs versus South Africa).</p>

<p>Stokes retirement has led to many questioning the relevance of ODI cricket, especially since the surge of T20s. A lot of white-ball ICC events are lined-up each year, till 2031, along with the ICC Test Championship cycles as well. Hence, players are finding it tough to sustain themselves across formats and also be present for franchise cricket. Hence, Stokes walked away from the 50-over format, being part of England's memorable 2019 World Cup triumph. Recently, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opined that&nbsp;the all-rounder's decision came as he feared he will become 'stale' playing all forms of the game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greatest-ever-ben-stokes-responds-to-virat-kohlis-message-ahead-of-his-last-odi-for-england-498914">'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England</a></strong></p>

<p>Hussain also pointed out Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's current struggles, who are&nbsp;playing all formats at regular intervals and finding it tough as well. In his coloum for The Daily Mail, Hussain wrote, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is."</p>

<p>"Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned.</p>

<p>"Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," Nasser added.</p>

<p>For the unversed, both Williamson and Kohli are struggling for form at the moment. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he also ended the England tour without a fifty. Williamson, on the other hand, scored only a solitary fifty in IPL 2022 and returned with not even a single half-century in the NZ's away Tests versus England.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-not-cars-you-can-fill-up-with-petrol-ben-stokes-explains-reason-behind-his-shock-odi-retirment-498946">We are not cars you can fill up with petrol: Ben Stokes explains reason behind his shock ODI retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>In Stokes' last ODI, played at his home ground at&nbsp;Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street in Durham, the left-hander managed only five runs and remained wicketless as Rassie van der Dussen's 134 propelled SA to a convincing 62-run win as visitors went 1-0 up in the three-match series. He ended with&nbsp;2,924&nbsp;runs and 74 wickets, overall, in the ODI format.</p>
</section>


Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18), a day after India won the 50-over series versus hosts Jos Buttler-led England (also a day prior to English side's ongoing home ODIs versus South Africa).

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18), a day after India won the 50-over series versus hosts Jos Buttler-led England (also a day prior to English side's ongoing home ODIs versus South Africa). Stokes retirement has led to many questioning the relevance of ODI cricket, especially since the surge of T20s. A lot of white-ball ICC events are lined-up each year, till 2031, along with the ICC Test Championship cycles as well. Hence, players are finding it tough to sustain themselves across formats and also be present for franchise cricket. Hence, Stokes walked away from the 50-over format, being part of England's memorable 2019 World Cup triumph. Recently, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opined that the all-rounder's decision came as he feared he will become 'stale' playing all forms of the game. ALSO READ | 'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England Hussain also pointed out Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's current struggles, who are playing all formats at regular intervals and finding it tough as well. In his coloum for The Daily Mail, Hussain wrote, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is." "Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned. "Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," Nasser added. For the unversed, both Williamson and Kohli are struggling for form at the moment. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he also ended the England tour without a fifty. Williamson, on the other hand, scored only a solitary fifty in IPL 2022 and returned with not even a single half-century in the NZ's away Tests versus England. ALSO READ | We are not cars you can fill up with petrol: Ben Stokes explains reason behind his shock ODI retirement In Stokes' last ODI, played at his home ground at Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street in Durham, the left-hander managed only five runs and remained wicketless as Rassie van der Dussen's 134 propelled SA to a convincing 62-run win as visitors went 1-0 up in the three-match series. He ended with 2,924 runs and 74 wickets, overall, in the ODI format.

Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement

<p>It isn't an unknown fact that Team India have not been able to win an ICC event since 2013. Their last major trophy came during the 2013 Champions Trophy under talismanic leader MS Dhoni. Since then, India have been knocked out in the semi-finals in as many as three ICC events (2015 ODI World Cup, 2016 T20 World Cup, 2019 ODI World Cup), lost two mega finals (2014 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy) and bowed out of the league stage in the 2021 T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>From MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli was given the charge of the team across formats in early 2017. Under him, India did well in every ICC event, barring last year's showpiece event in the UAE, but failed to return with the coveted title. Former and tainted India pacer S Sreesanth has now claimed that India would have won three World Cups had he been part of Kohli-led Men in Blue.</p>

<p>“If I would have been a part of the team under Virat’s captaincy, India would have won the World Cup in 2015, 2019 &amp; 2021," the former fast bowler made the big claim during a live chat with&nbsp;fans as part of the new season of CricChat on the ShareChat Audio Chatroom.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-jasprit-bumrah-7-captains-rahul-dravid-has-worked-with-as-indias-head-coach-498546"><strong>From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach</strong></a></p>

<p>Further, Sreesanth also stressed how&nbsp;practicing bowling yorkers made him master it as a fast bowler. "It is important to visualize while playing and small regions do not make any difference. Rather it is better to learn such tricks here, given there are a few distractions. My coach taught me how to throw Yorkers with tennis balls. If you ask Bumrah, he’ll say that it is easy too,” Sreesanth opined.</p>

<section>
<p>Sreesanth represented India in&nbsp;27 Tests and 53 ODIs, claiming&nbsp;87 and 75 wickets respectively, and was part of the national side's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup winning campaigns. Recalling being part of the ODI World&nbsp;Cup triumph, Sreesanth shared how emotional Sachin Tendulkar was after Dhoni &amp; Co.'s famous triumph. “We won that World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-like-dhoni-yuvraj-gavaskar-lauds-pant-pandya-compares-duo-with-legendary-indian-batting-pair-498733"><strong>'Just like Dhoni &amp; Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair</strong></a></p>

<p>Sreesanth announced his international retirement early this year, in March. Back then, he stated, "It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates, and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game. With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats) cricket."</p>

<p>The former pacer's career turned upside down after he got involved in the IPL spot-fixing scandal. While he saw his ban getting over in 2020, he never played an IPL game or represented India after that. His last game for the national side came in 2013.</p>
</section>


It isn't an unknown fact that Team India have not been able to win an ICC event since 2013. Their last major trophy came during the 2013 Champions Trophy under talismanic leader MS Dhoni.

It isn't an unknown fact that Team India have not been able to win an ICC event since 2013. Their last major trophy came during the 2013 Champions Trophy under talismanic leader MS Dhoni. Since then, India have been knocked out in the semi-finals in as many as three ICC events (2015 ODI World Cup, 2016 T20 World Cup, 2019 ODI World Cup), lost two mega finals (2014 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy) and bowed out of the league stage in the 2021 T20 World Cup. From MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli was given the charge of the team across formats in early 2017. Under him, India did well in every ICC event, barring last year's showpiece event in the UAE, but failed to return with the coveted title. Former and tainted India pacer S Sreesanth has now claimed that India would have won three World Cups had he been part of Kohli-led Men in Blue. “If I would have been a part of the team under Virat’s captaincy, India would have won the World Cup in 2015, 2019 & 2021," the former fast bowler made the big claim during a live chat with fans as part of the new season of CricChat on the ShareChat Audio Chatroom. ALSO READ | From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach Further, Sreesanth also stressed how practicing bowling yorkers made him master it as a fast bowler. "It is important to visualize while playing and small regions do not make any difference. Rather it is better to learn such tricks here, given there are a few distractions. My coach taught me how to throw Yorkers with tennis balls. If you ask Bumrah, he’ll say that it is easy too,” Sreesanth opined. Sreesanth represented India in 27 Tests and 53 ODIs, claiming 87 and 75 wickets respectively, and was part of the national side's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup winning campaigns. Recalling being part of the ODI World Cup triumph, Sreesanth shared how emotional Sachin Tendulkar was after Dhoni & Co.'s famous triumph. “We won that World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar,” he added. ALSO READ | 'Just like Dhoni & Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair Sreesanth announced his international retirement early this year, in March. Back then, he stated, "It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates, and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game. With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats) cricket." The former pacer's career turned upside down after he got involved in the IPL spot-fixing scandal. While he saw his ban getting over in 2020, he never played an IPL game or represented India after that. His last game for the national side came in 2013.

'India would've won 3 World Cups if I played in Virat Kohli-led team' : S Sreesanth makes big claim

<p>Ben Stokes responded to Virat Kohli's message for him ahead of his farewell ODI for England on Tuesday (July 18). Stokes surprisingly announced his decision to retire from ODIs on Monday stating that it felt 'unsustainable' for him to continue playing in all three formats of the game. Stokes, who recently took over from Joe Root as England's Test captain, also said he wants to focus on playing Tests and T20Is going forward.</p>

<p>One of the best all-rounders in the game at present, Stokes' decision to retire came as a shock to many. Indian superstar Virat Kohli lauded Stokes for his brave decision and paid tribute to him after his retirement announcement. Kohli left a heartfelt message in the comments section under Stokes' Instagram post on his retirement.</p>

<p>"You're the most competitive bloke I've ever played against. Respect," Kohli wrote. Stokes was asked about the former Indian captain's message for him ahead of his farewell ODI game against South Africa at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street. The England all-rounder said it felt great to hear a compliment from someone like Kohli, who he feels will go down as one of the greatest of all time.</p>

<p>"Look, Virat, he is going to go down as one of the greatest ever players to play the game in all three formats. He is a phenomenal player. And I have absolutely loved every time I have played against someone like him. The energy and the commitment that he gives to the game is something I have always really admired even before I started playing against him," Stokes told the official broadcaster when asked about Kohli's message.</p>

<p>"When you play against guys like that, you understand what it means at the top level. It was nice to hear," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecb-banned-me-from-t20s-too-kevin-pietersen-recalls-his-early-odi-retirement-after-ben-stokes-announcement-498896">'ECB banned me from T20s too': Pietersen recalls his early ODI retirement after Stokes' announcement</a></p>

<p>Stokes was part of the recently-concluded ODI series between India and England at home which the hosts lost 2-1. The England all-rounder revealed the thought of retirement hit him after the first ODI against India which England lost and that it was clear he wanted to make way for someone who would give his 100 percent for the team in the format.</p>

<p>"It was actually after the first one-day game [against India] where it was quite clear - one of the best bits of advice I got was 'if there's any doubt, there's no doubt'," said Stokes, who was one of the heroes of England's ODI World Cup triumph in 2019.</p>

<p>"As I said in my statement, this England shirt deserves 100 percent from whoever wears it and unfortunately I didn't like the feeling of not being able to contribute in the way I wanted to - and the feeling of stopping someone else from being able to progress in this format," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reacts-as-ben-stokes-retires-from-odis-youre-the-most-competitive-bloke-ive-played-against-498550">Kohli reacts as&nbsp;Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against'</a></p>

<p>Stokes played an instrumental role in helping England clinch their maiden World Cup title in 2019 and was the top scorer for them in the tied final with a gritty knock of 84 runs before scoring 8 runs off 3 balls in the Super Over. He played 102 ODIs for England, amassing 2919 runs and piking up 74 wickets.</p>


Ben Stokes responded to Virat Kohli's message for him ahead of his farewell ODI for England on Tuesday (July 18). Stokes surprisingly announced his decision to retire from ODIs on Monday stating that it felt 'unsustainable' for him to continue playing in all three formats of the game.

Ben Stokes responded to Virat Kohli's message for him ahead of his farewell ODI for England on Tuesday (July 18). Stokes surprisingly announced his decision to retire from ODIs on Monday stating that it felt 'unsustainable' for him to continue playing in all three formats of the game. Stokes, who recently took over from Joe Root as England's Test captain, also said he wants to focus on playing Tests and T20Is going forward. One of the best all-rounders in the game at present, Stokes' decision to retire came as a shock to many. Indian superstar Virat Kohli lauded Stokes for his brave decision and paid tribute to him after his retirement announcement. Kohli left a heartfelt message in the comments section under Stokes' Instagram post on his retirement. "You're the most competitive bloke I've ever played against. Respect," Kohli wrote. Stokes was asked about the former Indian captain's message for him ahead of his farewell ODI game against South Africa at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street. The England all-rounder said it felt great to hear a compliment from someone like Kohli, who he feels will go down as one of the greatest of all time. "Look, Virat, he is going to go down as one of the greatest ever players to play the game in all three formats. He is a phenomenal player. And I have absolutely loved every time I have played against someone like him. The energy and the commitment that he gives to the game is something I have always really admired even before I started playing against him," Stokes told the official broadcaster when asked about Kohli's message. "When you play against guys like that, you understand what it means at the top level. It was nice to hear," he added. Also Read: 'ECB banned me from T20s too': Pietersen recalls his early ODI retirement after Stokes' announcement Stokes was part of the recently-concluded ODI series between India and England at home which the hosts lost 2-1. The England all-rounder revealed the thought of retirement hit him after the first ODI against India which England lost and that it was clear he wanted to make way for someone who would give his 100 percent for the team in the format. "It was actually after the first one-day game [against India] where it was quite clear - one of the best bits of advice I got was 'if there's any doubt, there's no doubt'," said Stokes, who was one of the heroes of England's ODI World Cup triumph in 2019. "As I said in my statement, this England shirt deserves 100 percent from whoever wears it and unfortunately I didn't like the feeling of not being able to contribute in the way I wanted to - and the feeling of stopping someone else from being able to progress in this format," he added. Also Read: Kohli reacts as Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against' Stokes played an instrumental role in helping England clinch their maiden World Cup title in 2019 and was the top scorer for them in the tied final with a gritty knock of 84 runs before scoring 8 runs off 3 balls in the Super Over. He played 102 ODIs for England, amassing 2919 runs and piking up 74 wickets.

'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England

<p>England pacer James Anderson has dropped a major hint on his retirement amid rumours that he might quit the sport soon. One of the best fast bowlers of the generation, Anderson has been a force to reckon with for England in Test cricket and is in no mood to stop anytime soon. The veteran pacer was recently seen in action during the one-off fifth Test between India and England in Edgbaston.</p>

<p>Anderson was on top of his game in the Edgbaston Test and picked up a total of six wickets across India's two innings but failed to bag the prized wicket of Virat Kohli. Anderson, who has troubled some of the best batters throughout his career, has enjoyed some memorable on-field battles with Kohli.</p>

<p>The duo share an epic rivalry on the pitch but remain good friends off it. Anderson has dismissed Kohli seven times in Test cricket and many believed their face-off in the Edgbaston Test earlier this month was the final time they had seen the two greats go up against each other.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-yasir-replicates-shane-warnes-ball-of-the-century-to-outfox-mendis-in-galle-test-watch-498816">Yasir replicates Shane Warne's 'Ball of the Century' to outfox Mendis in Galle Test - WATCH</a></p>

<p>However, the England legend has dropped a huge hint on his future and said he would like to bowl at Kohli one more time before he decided to quit cricket. Anderson only plays Test cricket for England and has not featured in white-ball cricket for a long time.</p>

<p>"Well, I do not know [when I will retire]. I would love to bowl at Virat again. So, maybe I will stick around for the next tour," said Anderson when asked about his retirement.</p>

<p>Anderson had dominated the battle between him and Kohli during India's tour of England in 2014 when he dismissed the Indian batter 4 times making it a nightmarish series for him. However, Kohli settled scores when India toured England in 2018 and scored 114 runs against him without giving him his wicket even once.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-can-never-dinesh-karthik-comes-to-virat-kohlis-defence-amid-his-lean-patch-498802">'You can never....': Dinesh Karthik comes to Virat Kohli's defence amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>However, India are not expected to play a Test series against England anytime soon after the recently-concluded one-off fifth Test which was a rescheduled game from their tour last year. India will take on England in a Test series at home in 2024 and away in 2025, as per reports.</p>

<p>It remains to be seen if Anderson will stick around for another couple of years to enjoy his last battle with Kohli before hanging up his boots as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.</p>


England pacer James Anderson has dropped a major hint on his retirement amid rumours that he might quit the sport soon. One of the best fast bowlers of the generation, Anderson has been a force to reckon with for England in Test cricket and is in no mood to stop anytime soon.

England pacer James Anderson has dropped a major hint on his retirement amid rumours that he might quit the sport soon. One of the best fast bowlers of the generation, Anderson has been a force to reckon with for England in Test cricket and is in no mood to stop anytime soon. The veteran pacer was recently seen in action during the one-off fifth Test between India and England in Edgbaston. Anderson was on top of his game in the Edgbaston Test and picked up a total of six wickets across India's two innings but failed to bag the prized wicket of Virat Kohli. Anderson, who has troubled some of the best batters throughout his career, has enjoyed some memorable on-field battles with Kohli. The duo share an epic rivalry on the pitch but remain good friends off it. Anderson has dismissed Kohli seven times in Test cricket and many believed their face-off in the Edgbaston Test earlier this month was the final time they had seen the two greats go up against each other. Also Read: Yasir replicates Shane Warne's 'Ball of the Century' to outfox Mendis in Galle Test - WATCH However, the England legend has dropped a huge hint on his future and said he would like to bowl at Kohli one more time before he decided to quit cricket. Anderson only plays Test cricket for England and has not featured in white-ball cricket for a long time. "Well, I do not know [when I will retire]. I would love to bowl at Virat again. So, maybe I will stick around for the next tour," said Anderson when asked about his retirement. Anderson had dominated the battle between him and Kohli during India's tour of England in 2014 when he dismissed the Indian batter 4 times making it a nightmarish series for him. However, Kohli settled scores when India toured England in 2018 and scored 114 runs against him without giving him his wicket even once. Also Read: 'You can never....': Dinesh Karthik comes to Virat Kohli's defence amid his lean patch However, India are not expected to play a Test series against England anytime soon after the recently-concluded one-off fifth Test which was a rescheduled game from their tour last year. India will take on England in a Test series at home in 2024 and away in 2025, as per reports. It remains to be seen if Anderson will stick around for another couple of years to enjoy his last battle with Kohli before hanging up his boots as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.

'I'd love to bowl at Virat Kohli again': James Anderson drops major hint on Test retirement

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India ended a very successful tour of England on Sunday (July 17). After India lost a golden opportunity to win the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from 2021, versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visitors turned it around in the white-ball leg, beating Jos Buttler &amp; Co. in T20Is as well as in ODIs (by 2-1 margin).</p>

<p>While the T20Is was easily pocketed by India, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead before losing the finale by 17 runs, the 50-over series lived upto expectations and went to the final ODI with the scoreline 1-1. In the third and final match, India dismissed England for 259 in 45.5 overs -- riding on Hardik Pandya's 4/24 -- before Hardik's 71 (55) and Rishabh Pant's 125 not out rescued India from 72/4 to take them to a stunning five-wicket series win in the tour finale.</p>

<p>After the end of the England tour, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked India's most valuable white-ball player. The white-ball sides comprises several stars such as Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Pant, Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja Hardik, etc., however, Chopra picked the latter.</p>

<p>"Hardik Pandya - he has been absolutely stellar. One thing is getting proved that he is India's most valuable player in white-ball cricket. I don't think there is going to be anyone who is going to come close to him," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-completely-sanjay-manjrekar-heaps-praise-on-rishabh-pant-hardik-pandya-after-england-odis-498851"><strong>'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs</strong></a></p>

<p>"If Hardik Pandya is fit, his replacement is not available. You will get many spin-bowling all-rounders in India, you get them easily, in different formats, but you don't get a fast-bowling all-rounder at all, it is not possible at all," Chopra added.</p>

<p>Hardik has been in sensational form since his return to competitive cricket, starting from IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the mega title, with 487 runs and eight scalps overall, contributed with the bat in the home T20Is versus South Africa, led India for the first time during their 2-0&nbsp;series whitewash over Ireland in the shortest format, in Dublin, won the Player-of-the-Match in the India-England first T20I and ended as the Player-of-the-Series in the ODis versus the Three Lions.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India ended a very successful tour of England on Sunday (July 17). After India lost a golden opportunity to win the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from 2021, versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visitors turned it around in the white-ball leg, beating Jos Buttler & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India ended a very successful tour of England on Sunday (July 17). After India lost a golden opportunity to win the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from 2021, versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visitors turned it around in the white-ball leg, beating Jos Buttler & Co. in T20Is as well as in ODIs (by 2-1 margin). While the T20Is was easily pocketed by India, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead before losing the finale by 17 runs, the 50-over series lived upto expectations and went to the final ODI with the scoreline 1-1. In the third and final match, India dismissed England for 259 in 45.5 overs -- riding on Hardik Pandya's 4/24 -- before Hardik's 71 (55) and Rishabh Pant's 125 not out rescued India from 72/4 to take them to a stunning five-wicket series win in the tour finale. After the end of the England tour, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked India's most valuable white-ball player. The white-ball sides comprises several stars such as Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Pant, Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja Hardik, etc., however, Chopra picked the latter. "Hardik Pandya - he has been absolutely stellar. One thing is getting proved that he is India's most valuable player in white-ball cricket. I don't think there is going to be anyone who is going to come close to him," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | 'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs "If Hardik Pandya is fit, his replacement is not available. You will get many spin-bowling all-rounders in India, you get them easily, in different formats, but you don't get a fast-bowling all-rounder at all, it is not possible at all," Chopra added. Hardik has been in sensational form since his return to competitive cricket, starting from IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the mega title, with 487 runs and eight scalps overall, contributed with the bat in the home T20Is versus South Africa, led India for the first time during their 2-0 series whitewash over Ireland in the shortest format, in Dublin, won the Player-of-the-Match in the India-England first T20I and ended as the Player-of-the-Series in the ODis versus the Three Lions.

Not Jasprit Bumrah or Rishabh Pant! Aakash Chopra picks Team India's most valuable white-ball player

<p>Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant stood tall for India during their stiff 260-run chase versus hosts England as Rohit Sharma-led India won the three-match ODI series 2-1 on Sunday (July 17) in Manchester. After Hardik's 4/24 dismissed Jos Buttler-led England for 259 in 45.5 overs, India were in a spot of bother at 72 for 4 when Pant-Hardik joined forces.</p>

<p>The duo batted sensibly before Hardik took on the bowlers and allowed Pant to play calculative cricket. While Hardik fell for a 55-ball 71, Pant continued from his end and slammed his maiden ODI ton to guide India to a stunning five-wicket series win over the world champions. After the victory, many former cricketers have hailed the batting pair of Pant-Hardik.</p>

<p>Joining the bandwagon, Sanjay Manjrekar also heaped praise on the dynamic pair and told <em>Sports18</em>, "Yes, just hoping that Hardik can keep his fitness together. No issues about Rishabh Pant. What we saw in that last one day, I was completely floored by the sheer talent and ability of these two guys, temperament as well, built a long partnership and how easily, in the end, India won. Thanks to Rishabh Pant for staying there till the end. So yes, high-quality batters, and they’re going to be batting mostly at number 4 and 5 whether it’s T20 Cricket or 50 overs cricket or Pant could be opening as well. In 2019, we had a lot of issues finding a proper middle order but now we have some quality supply."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-like-dhoni-yuvraj-gavaskar-lauds-pant-pandya-compares-duo-with-legendary-indian-batting-pair-498733">'Just like Dhoni &amp; Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair</a></strong></p>

<p>Another India's win, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar had also lauded Pant-Pandya, comparing them to the legendary pair of MS Dhoni-Yuvraj Singh in white-ball formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on&nbsp;<em>Sports Tak</em>,&nbsp;Gavaskar sounded optimistic of that Pant-Pandya can&nbsp;replicate the success of Dhoni-Yuvraj. "It can definitely happen. The kind of sixes Yuvraj and Dhoni used to hit, the way they steadied the innings, the way they ran between the wicket, Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant can be that pair for India. And just like Dhoni and Yuvraj used to hit sixes, I hope Pandya and Pant can win the hearts of cricket fans," he opined.</p>


Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant stood tall for India during their stiff 260-run chase versus hosts England as Rohit Sharma-led India won the three-match ODI series 2-1 on Sunday (July 17) in Manchester.

Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant stood tall for India during their stiff 260-run chase versus hosts England as Rohit Sharma-led India won the three-match ODI series 2-1 on Sunday (July 17) in Manchester. After Hardik's 4/24 dismissed Jos Buttler-led England for 259 in 45.5 overs, India were in a spot of bother at 72 for 4 when Pant-Hardik joined forces. The duo batted sensibly before Hardik took on the bowlers and allowed Pant to play calculative cricket. While Hardik fell for a 55-ball 71, Pant continued from his end and slammed his maiden ODI ton to guide India to a stunning five-wicket series win over the world champions. After the victory, many former cricketers have hailed the batting pair of Pant-Hardik. Joining the bandwagon, Sanjay Manjrekar also heaped praise on the dynamic pair and told Sports18, "Yes, just hoping that Hardik can keep his fitness together. No issues about Rishabh Pant. What we saw in that last one day, I was completely floored by the sheer talent and ability of these two guys, temperament as well, built a long partnership and how easily, in the end, India won. Thanks to Rishabh Pant for staying there till the end. So yes, high-quality batters, and they’re going to be batting mostly at number 4 and 5 whether it’s T20 Cricket or 50 overs cricket or Pant could be opening as well. In 2019, we had a lot of issues finding a proper middle order but now we have some quality supply." ALSO READ | 'Just like Dhoni & Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair Another India's win, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar had also lauded Pant-Pandya, comparing them to the legendary pair of MS Dhoni-Yuvraj Singh in white-ball formats. Speaking on Sports Tak, Gavaskar sounded optimistic of that Pant-Pandya can replicate the success of Dhoni-Yuvraj. "It can definitely happen. The kind of sixes Yuvraj and Dhoni used to hit, the way they steadied the innings, the way they ran between the wicket, Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant can be that pair for India. And just like Dhoni and Yuvraj used to hit sixes, I hope Pandya and Pant can win the hearts of cricket fans," he opined.

'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs

<p>Virat Kohli remains under the scanner. The superstar Indian batter's century-drought continues since late 2019. In the just-concluded India tour of England, the 33-year-old former Indian skipper returned with not even a single fifty-plus score across formats and won't be part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies, starting on June 22.</p>

<p>Thus, the discussion around Kohli's form continues to gather pace in the world cricket. India's veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has now joined the bandwagon and extended his support to his Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) teammate Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the sidelines of a training session with young and aspiring&nbsp;cricketers at Jaipur's PS Sports Excellence Arena, Karthik told TOI, "Virat has experienced insane success over the period of time. Now he will get a good break and will come back all recharged and hopefully will do phenomenally well. You can never rule out a player of his calibre."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-like-dhoni-yuvraj-gavaskar-lauds-pant-pandya-compares-duo-with-legendary-indian-batting-pair-498733">'Just like Dhoni &amp; Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair</a></strong></p>

<p>Karthik then shifted focus to his own career as he has made a comeback into the national side after a long gap, owing to his success in IPL 2022. "It is never easy, but I have worked hard for it. Also, given the bench strength that we have today, the competition is always going to be a part of it. This is the beauty of Indian cricket," added the 36-year-old.</p>

<p>Karthik is part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team, who is gearing up for the five T20Is in the Caribbean island versus the two-time winners West Indies.</p>


Virat Kohli remains under the scanner. The superstar Indian batter's century-drought continues since late 2019. In the just-concluded India tour of England, the 33-year-old former Indian skipper returned with not even a single fifty-plus score across formats and won't be part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies, starting on June 22.

Virat Kohli remains under the scanner. The superstar Indian batter's century-drought continues since late 2019. In the just-concluded India tour of England, the 33-year-old former Indian skipper returned with not even a single fifty-plus score across formats and won't be part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies, starting on June 22. Thus, the discussion around Kohli's form continues to gather pace in the world cricket. India's veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has now joined the bandwagon and extended his support to his Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) teammate Kohli. On the sidelines of a training session with young and aspiring cricketers at Jaipur's PS Sports Excellence Arena, Karthik told TOI, "Virat has experienced insane success over the period of time. Now he will get a good break and will come back all recharged and hopefully will do phenomenally well. You can never rule out a player of his calibre." ALSO READ | 'Just like Dhoni & Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair Karthik then shifted focus to his own career as he has made a comeback into the national side after a long gap, owing to his success in IPL 2022. "It is never easy, but I have worked hard for it. Also, given the bench strength that we have today, the competition is always going to be a part of it. This is the beauty of Indian cricket," added the 36-year-old. Karthik is part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team, who is gearing up for the five T20Is in the Caribbean island versus the two-time winners West Indies.

'You can never....': Dinesh Karthik comes to Virat Kohli's defence amid his lean patch

<p>Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya were the star performers for Team India as they clinched the three-match ODI series versus England, in Manchester, on Sunday (July 17). After bundling out Jos Buttler-led England for 259 45.5 overs, the Rohit Sharma-led side was&nbsp;in trouble after being reduced to 38/3, further to 72/4, before Hardik-Pant's 133-run fifth-wicket stand rescued India and they went onto win the series decider by five wickets (claming the series 2-1).</p>

<p>While Hardik had already impressed with the bat, returning with 4 for 24, he slammed a match-winning 55-ball 71 before Pant rose to the occasion, with the series on the line, and smashed his maiden ODI ton. Ending with a fine 113-ball 125 not out, Pant was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match whereas Hardik walked away with the Player-of-the-Series award. After India's win, former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished huge praise on Pant-Hardik and revealed how he also had a role to play in Pant's heroics in Manchester.</p>

<p>"Looks like the 45-minute conversation made sense!! Well played @RishabhPant17. That's how you pace your innings. @hardikpandya7, great to watch #indiavseng," tweeted Yuvraj.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looks like the 45 minute conversation made sense 😅!! Well played <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> that’s how you pace your ininings <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> great to watch 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indiavseng?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indiavseng</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1548719515541950465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pant-ton-pandyas-all-round-show-help-india-to-2-1-series-win-over-england-498303"><strong>Pant ton, Pandya's all-round show help India to 2-1 series win over England</strong></a></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Pant stated, "Hopefully I remember (this knock) for the rest of my life. I was focusing on one ball at a time when I was batting. When your team is under pressure and you bat like that .. something I aspire to do. I always enjoy playing in England, at the same time enjoy the atmosphere and the situation. The more you play the more experience you gain. Nothing to take away from the bowlers, it was a good wicket to bat on and the bowlers did a commendable job to restrict them, they were brilliant not only today but for the entire series."</p>

<p>Pant, thus, ended his memorable tour of England with two tons -- one in the one-off Test in Edgbaston and the other at Manchster. India will now tour West Indies, where they play three ODIs and five T20Is.</p>


Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya were the star performers for Team India as they clinched the three-match ODI series versus England, in Manchester, on Sunday (July 17).

Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya were the star performers for Team India as they clinched the three-match ODI series versus England, in Manchester, on Sunday (July 17). After bundling out Jos Buttler-led England for 259 45.5 overs, the Rohit Sharma-led side was in trouble after being reduced to 38/3, further to 72/4, before Hardik-Pant's 133-run fifth-wicket stand rescued India and they went onto win the series decider by five wickets (claming the series 2-1). While Hardik had already impressed with the bat, returning with 4 for 24, he slammed a match-winning 55-ball 71 before Pant rose to the occasion, with the series on the line, and smashed his maiden ODI ton. Ending with a fine 113-ball 125 not out, Pant was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match whereas Hardik walked away with the Player-of-the-Series award. After India's win, former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished huge praise on Pant-Hardik and revealed how he also had a role to play in Pant's heroics in Manchester. "Looks like the 45-minute conversation made sense!! Well played @RishabhPant17. That's how you pace your innings. @hardikpandya7, great to watch #indiavseng," tweeted Yuvraj. Looks like the 45 minute conversation made sense 😅!! Well played @RishabhPant17 that’s how you pace your ininings @hardikpandya7 great to watch 💪 #indiavseng — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 17, 2022 × ALSO READ | Pant ton, Pandya's all-round show help India to 2-1 series win over England At the post-match presentation, Pant stated, "Hopefully I remember (this knock) for the rest of my life. I was focusing on one ball at a time when I was batting. When your team is under pressure and you bat like that .. something I aspire to do. I always enjoy playing in England, at the same time enjoy the atmosphere and the situation. The more you play the more experience you gain. Nothing to take away from the bowlers, it was a good wicket to bat on and the bowlers did a commendable job to restrict them, they were brilliant not only today but for the entire series." Pant, thus, ended his memorable tour of England with two tons -- one in the one-off Test in Edgbaston and the other at Manchster. India will now tour West Indies, where they play three ODIs and five T20Is.

ENG vs IND: Yuvraj Singh reveals how he had a role to play in Rishabh Pant's 125 not out in 3rd ODI

<p>Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has offered to help Indian superstar Virat Kohli recover from his poor form amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has struggled with the willow for Team India across all formats and has been far from consistent. His last century in international cricket came way back in November 2019 and the batting maestro has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark.</p>

<p>After a shambolic campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 22, Kohli made his comeback for India in the team's recently-concluded tour of England. While he was expected to spark a turnaround, his woeful form continued in both Tests and limited-overs formats.</p>

<p>Kohli managed to score only 75 runs in six innings for India against England in what was a disastrous tour for the senior India batter. Several former cricketers and experts also raised questions over Kohli's spot in India's T20I squad ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reacts-as-ben-stokes-retires-from-odis-youre-the-most-competitive-bloke-ive-played-against-498550">Kohli reacts as&nbsp;Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against'</a></p>

<p>Amid his ongoing lean patch, Gavaskar wants to come to Kohli's rescue by offering him some crucial advice which he believes can help the senior India batter. Gavaskar, who himself faced troubles against the moving ball during his playing days as an opening batter, said he can tell Kohli changes&nbsp;which he can bring&nbsp;in his game to counter the issue and spark a turnaround.</p>

<p>"If I had about 20 minutes with him, I would be able to tell him the things he might have to do. It might help him, I am not saying it will help him but it could, particularly with regards to that off-stump line," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today.</p>

<p>"Having been an opening batter, having been troubled by that line, there are certain things that you try and do. If I get 20 minutes with him, I might be able to tell him," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serbian-star-novak-djokovic-reacts-to-kevin-pietersens-instagram-post-backing-under-fire-virat-kohli-498360">Djokovic reacts to Kevin Pietersen's Instagram post backing under-fire Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>While Gavaskar insisted Kohli has been facing trouble in playing deliveries bowled to the off-stump line, he explained how his bad form has resulted in the senior Indian batter playing some poor shots which have cost him his wicket.</p>

<p>"It goes back to the fact that his first mistake turns out to be his last. Again, just because he is not amongst the runs, there is this anxiety to play at every delivery because that is what batters feel, they have got to score. You look to play at deliveries that you otherwise won't. But he has gotten out to good deliveries as well on this particular tour," Gavaskar explained.</p>


Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has offered to help Indian superstar Virat Kohli recover from his poor form amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket.

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has offered to help Indian superstar Virat Kohli recover from his poor form amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has struggled with the willow for Team India across all formats and has been far from consistent. His last century in international cricket came way back in November 2019 and the batting maestro has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark. After a shambolic campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 22, Kohli made his comeback for India in the team's recently-concluded tour of England. While he was expected to spark a turnaround, his woeful form continued in both Tests and limited-overs formats. Kohli managed to score only 75 runs in six innings for India against England in what was a disastrous tour for the senior India batter. Several former cricketers and experts also raised questions over Kohli's spot in India's T20I squad ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year. Also Read: Kohli reacts as Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against' Amid his ongoing lean patch, Gavaskar wants to come to Kohli's rescue by offering him some crucial advice which he believes can help the senior India batter. Gavaskar, who himself faced troubles against the moving ball during his playing days as an opening batter, said he can tell Kohli changes which he can bring in his game to counter the issue and spark a turnaround. "If I had about 20 minutes with him, I would be able to tell him the things he might have to do. It might help him, I am not saying it will help him but it could, particularly with regards to that off-stump line," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today. "Having been an opening batter, having been troubled by that line, there are certain things that you try and do. If I get 20 minutes with him, I might be able to tell him," he added. Also Read: Djokovic reacts to Kevin Pietersen's Instagram post backing under-fire Virat Kohli While Gavaskar insisted Kohli has been facing trouble in playing deliveries bowled to the off-stump line, he explained how his bad form has resulted in the senior Indian batter playing some poor shots which have cost him his wicket. "It goes back to the fact that his first mistake turns out to be his last. Again, just because he is not amongst the runs, there is this anxiety to play at every delivery because that is what batters feel, they have got to score. You look to play at deliveries that you otherwise won't. But he has gotten out to good deliveries as well on this particular tour," Gavaskar explained.

If I get 20 minutes with Virat, I might be able to help him, says Sunil Gavaskar amid Kohli's poor form

<p>England all-rounder Ben Stokes shockingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Tuesday (July 18), confirming that he will play his final ODI for the country in the series-opener against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday. Stokes is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket and is a vital cog for England across all three formats of the game.</p>

<p>He was recently appointed as England's Test captain and has decided to quit the fifty-over format to focus on Tests and T20Is. Regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the world, Stokes had played a key role in helping England win their maiden ODI World Cup title in 2019.</p>

<p>The star all-rounder scored 465 runs and picked up 7 wickets for England in the 2019 World Cup, including a sensational knock of unbeaten 84 in the final which helped Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. force the summit clash into a Super Over and beat New Zealand in the summit clash to lift the elusive trophy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-and-test-tons-in-england-rishabh-pant-becomes-1st-asian-wicket-keeper-batter-to-achieve-remarkable-feat-498454">ODI and Test tons in England! Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat</a></p>

<p>Reacting to his retirement announcement, Indian superstar Virat Kohli lauded Stokes for the brave decision and called the 31-year-old the most competitive player he has played against. Kohli dropped a comment on Stokes' post on Instagram announcing his retirement from the fifty-over format.</p>

<p>"You’re the most competitive bloke I’ve ever played against. Respect," wrote the former India captain.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgJuAELj927/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy)</a></p>
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<p><img alt="kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="427db623-40f8-4d7b-b365-8e222f0548b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohli%20stokes%20comment_0.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-2019-world-cup-hero-ben-stokes-announces-retirement-from-odi-cricket-498499">England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket</a></p>

<p>In his statement, Stokes explained why he decided to quit ODIs despite being only 31 and said he felt playing all three formats was becoming unsustainable for him. The England all-rounder said he felt like his body his letting him down and wants to ensure someone who can give his all for the team gets a chance to take his place in England's ODI setup.</p>

<p>"Three formats are just unsustainable for me now. Not only do I feel that my body is letting me down because of the schedule and what is expected of us, but I also feel that I am taking the place of another player who can give Jos and the rest of the team their all. It’s time for someone else to progress as a cricketer and make incredible memories like I have over the past 11 years," said Stokes.</p>

<p>The star all-rounder has played 104 ODIs for England so far in his career and has amassed&nbsp;2919 runs in the format at an average of over 39. He has 3 hundreds and 21 fifties to his name in the fifty-over format along with 74 wickets.</p>


England all-rounder Ben Stokes shockingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Tuesday (July 18), confirming that he will play his final ODI for the country in the series-opener against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes shockingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Tuesday (July 18), confirming that he will play his final ODI for the country in the series-opener against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday. Stokes is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket and is a vital cog for England across all three formats of the game. He was recently appointed as England's Test captain and has decided to quit the fifty-over format to focus on Tests and T20Is. Regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the world, Stokes had played a key role in helping England win their maiden ODI World Cup title in 2019. The star all-rounder scored 465 runs and picked up 7 wickets for England in the 2019 World Cup, including a sensational knock of unbeaten 84 in the final which helped Eoin Morgan & Co. force the summit clash into a Super Over and beat New Zealand in the summit clash to lift the elusive trophy. Also Read: ODI and Test tons in England! Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat Reacting to his retirement announcement, Indian superstar Virat Kohli lauded Stokes for the brave decision and called the 31-year-old the most competitive player he has played against. Kohli dropped a comment on Stokes' post on Instagram announcing his retirement from the fifty-over format. "You’re the most competitive bloke I’ve ever played against. Respect," wrote the former India captain. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy) × Also Read: England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket In his statement, Stokes explained why he decided to quit ODIs despite being only 31 and said he felt playing all three formats was becoming unsustainable for him. The England all-rounder said he felt like his body his letting him down and wants to ensure someone who can give his all for the team gets a chance to take his place in England's ODI setup. "Three formats are just unsustainable for me now. Not only do I feel that my body is letting me down because of the schedule and what is expected of us, but I also feel that I am taking the place of another player who can give Jos and the rest of the team their all. It’s time for someone else to progress as a cricketer and make incredible memories like I have over the past 11 years," said Stokes. The star all-rounder has played 104 ODIs for England so far in his career and has amassed 2919 runs in the format at an average of over 39. He has 3 hundreds and 21 fifties to his name in the fifty-over format along with 74 wickets.

Virat Kohli reacts as Ben Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against'

<p>In pursuit of 260, Rohit Sharma-led India were in a spot of bother in the third and final ODI versus Jos Buttler-led England at Old Trafford, Manchester on Sunday (July 17). India lost their famed top three -- skipper Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli -- very soon and were reduced to 38 for 3 before Suryakumar Yadav's dismissal further pushed India on the back foot, reeling at 72 for 4.</p>

<p>From thereon, Hardik Pandya -- who had helped India dismiss England for 259 in 45.5 overs courtesy of his 4/24 -- joined Rishabh Pant and the duo batted sensibly in the initial few overs before the all-rounder attacked swiftly and allowed the keeper-batter to play freely. Without dropping much sweat, the duo stitched an invaluable 133-run fifth-wicket match-winning stand. Despite Hardik being out for a 55-ball 71, Pant stayed till the end to ensure India went past the finish&nbsp;line, by five wickets, with his unbeaten 125-run knock, off 113 balls.</p>

<p>Speaking at the post-match press conference, Hardik revealed the chat he had with centurion Pant. He said, "I was just repeating the same thing and even told him that I am repeating it too much! Let’s have a partnership, take the match as close as possible, and finish the match.&nbsp;<em>Pehle match toh close kar, phir tujhe enjoy karna hai to kar le!</em>&nbsp;(Finish the match first, then&nbsp;you can&nbsp;enjoy if you want).“And then he opened up. Everyone knows when he starts hitting, we are like&nbsp;<em>ab hum baith jaate hain, chalo aap khelo</em>&nbsp;(okay, now we can sit back and relax&nbsp;and you can hit)."</p>

<section><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-shameless-as-a-bowler-hardik-pandya-dwells-on-his-face-off-with-liam-livingstone-498402">'I am shameless as a bowler...': Hardik Pandya dwells on his face-off with Liam Livingstone</a></strong>

<p>Stressing on the talent they both have, the run rate or the remaining number of overs wasn't going to be an issue. In this regard, Hardik added, "The talent that he has and the talent that I perhaps have – there was no need to take any risks at that stage. Without any risks, we could score those runs as there were not many runs to get. The only way England could come back is if we lose back-to-back wickets."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unmissable-rohits-reaction-goes-viral-after-pant-hits-winning-runs-in-indias-odi-series-win-vs-eng-watch-498379">UNMISSABLE! Rohit's reaction goes viral after Pant hits winning runs in India's ODI series win vs ENG - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>Thus, India won only their third bilateral ODI series in England, first since 2014. Rohit &amp; Co. completed their tour of England by winning both the white-ball assignments and lost the one-off Test, in Edgabston, by seven wickets despite a sizeable 132-run lead.</p>

<p>Men in Blue will now travel to West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is, starting on June 22.</p>
</section>


In pursuit of 260, Rohit Sharma-led India were in a spot of bother in the third and final ODI versus Jos Buttler-led England at Old Trafford, Manchester on Sunday (July 17).

In pursuit of 260, Rohit Sharma-led India were in a spot of bother in the third and final ODI versus Jos Buttler-led England at Old Trafford, Manchester on Sunday (July 17). India lost their famed top three -- skipper Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli -- very soon and were reduced to 38 for 3 before Suryakumar Yadav's dismissal further pushed India on the back foot, reeling at 72 for 4. From thereon, Hardik Pandya -- who had helped India dismiss England for 259 in 45.5 overs courtesy of his 4/24 -- joined Rishabh Pant and the duo batted sensibly in the initial few overs before the all-rounder attacked swiftly and allowed the keeper-batter to play freely. Without dropping much sweat, the duo stitched an invaluable 133-run fifth-wicket match-winning stand. Despite Hardik being out for a 55-ball 71, Pant stayed till the end to ensure India went past the finish line, by five wickets, with his unbeaten 125-run knock, off 113 balls. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Hardik revealed the chat he had with centurion Pant. He said, "I was just repeating the same thing and even told him that I am repeating it too much! Let’s have a partnership, take the match as close as possible, and finish the match. Pehle match toh close kar, phir tujhe enjoy karna hai to kar le! (Finish the match first, then you can enjoy if you want).“And then he opened up. Everyone knows when he starts hitting, we are like ab hum baith jaate hain, chalo aap khelo (okay, now we can sit back and relax and you can hit)." ALSO READ | 'I am shameless as a bowler...': Hardik Pandya dwells on his face-off with Liam Livingstone Stressing on the talent they both have, the run rate or the remaining number of overs wasn't going to be an issue. In this regard, Hardik added, "The talent that he has and the talent that I perhaps have – there was no need to take any risks at that stage. Without any risks, we could score those runs as there were not many runs to get. The only way England could come back is if we lose back-to-back wickets." ALSO READ | UNMISSABLE! Rohit's reaction goes viral after Pant hits winning runs in India's ODI series win vs ENG - WATCH Thus, India won only their third bilateral ODI series in England, first since 2014. Rohit & Co. completed their tour of England by winning both the white-ball assignments and lost the one-off Test, in Edgabston, by seven wickets despite a sizeable 132-run lead. Men in Blue will now travel to West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is, starting on June 22.

'I was just.....' - Hardik Pandya reveals chat with Rishabh Pant in duo's match-winning stand vs England

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam broke yet another record of Virat Kohli en route to his brilliant half-century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Babar became the fastest Asian batter to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket surpassing Kohli to the elusive feat.</p>

<p>Babar achieved the milestone during Pakistan's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing Galle Test against Sri Lanka. One of the best batters in the present era, Babar has taken 228 innings to complete 10,000 runs in international cricket and is the fastest Asian batter to achieve the feat.</p>

<p>He surpassed Kohli, who held the record previously having completed 10,000 international runs in 232 innings. Babar also left behind some of the legends of the game like Sunil Gavaskar, Javed Miandad and Sourav Ganguly&nbsp;to become the fastest Asian to achieve the feat.</p>

<p><strong>Fastest Asian batters to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of innings)</strong></p>

<p>Babar Azam - 228<br />
Virat Kohli - 232<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 243<br />
Javed Miandad - 248<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 253</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-respond-after-kevin-pietersen-sends-message-of-support-to-former-india-captain-498150">Kohli, Anushka respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain</a></p>

<p>Babar has been one of the consistent performers for Pakistan across formats over the last few years and has already established his credentials as one of the best in the world. He turned out to be the saviour for his team yet again during their first innings against Sri Lanka after spinner Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Pakistani batting line-up with a five-wicket haul.</p>

<p>Babar held strong as Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals on the other end. The Pakistan skipper notched up a gritty fifty and is edging towards a well-deserved century in the game. However, Pakistan have only one wicket left and it remains to be seen if Babar will be able to reach the triple-figure mark.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-champion-to-another-harbhajan-lauds-babar-azam-virat-kohli-over-heartfelt-twitter-exchange-498165">'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange</a></p>

<p>While he is the fastest Asian to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket, West Indies legend Viv Richards tops the overall list of batters who have been fastest to the feat. Richards completed the milestone in 206 innings followed by South African great Hashim Amla, who took 217 innings to reach 10,000 international runs.</p>

<p><strong>Fastest Player to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of&nbsp;innings</strong></p>

<p>Viv Richards -&nbsp;&nbsp;206<br />
Hashim Amla - 217<br />
Brian Lara - 220<br />
Joe Root - 222<br />
Babar Azam - 228</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam broke yet another record of Virat Kohli en route to his brilliant half-century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam broke yet another record of Virat Kohli en route to his brilliant half-century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Babar became the fastest Asian batter to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket surpassing Kohli to the elusive feat. Babar achieved the milestone during Pakistan's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing Galle Test against Sri Lanka. One of the best batters in the present era, Babar has taken 228 innings to complete 10,000 runs in international cricket and is the fastest Asian batter to achieve the feat. He surpassed Kohli, who held the record previously having completed 10,000 international runs in 232 innings. Babar also left behind some of the legends of the game like Sunil Gavaskar, Javed Miandad and Sourav Ganguly to become the fastest Asian to achieve the feat. Fastest Asian batters to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of innings) Babar Azam - 228 Virat Kohli - 232 Sunil Gavaskar - 243 Javed Miandad - 248 Sourav Ganguly - 253 Also Read: Kohli, Anushka respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain Babar has been one of the consistent performers for Pakistan across formats over the last few years and has already established his credentials as one of the best in the world. He turned out to be the saviour for his team yet again during their first innings against Sri Lanka after spinner Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Pakistani batting line-up with a five-wicket haul. Babar held strong as Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals on the other end. The Pakistan skipper notched up a gritty fifty and is edging towards a well-deserved century in the game. However, Pakistan have only one wicket left and it remains to be seen if Babar will be able to reach the triple-figure mark. Also Read: 'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange While he is the fastest Asian to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket, West Indies legend Viv Richards tops the overall list of batters who have been fastest to the feat. Richards completed the milestone in 206 innings followed by South African great Hashim Amla, who took 217 innings to reach 10,000 international runs. Fastest Player to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of innings Viv Richards - 206 Hashim Amla - 217 Brian Lara - 220 Joe Root - 222 Babar Azam - 228

Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record to achieve huge milestone

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam was lauded by many after he shared a message of support for Indian superstar Virat Kohli amid criticism ver his poor form. Kohli has been bashed by many over the last few months for his woeful form for Team India as he continues to struggle for consistency with the willow. Some former cricketers and experts have also questioned his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year.</p>

<p>Amid his rough patch, Babar took to Twitter to extend support to Kohli with a heartfelt message. The Pakistan skipper urged Kohli to stay strong while stating that the bad phase will pass soon. Kohli acknowledged Babar's message and responded by thanking him while also wishing him to continue rising and shining for his team.</p>

<p>The inspiring exchange between the duo despite the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan&nbsp;left many cricket fans in awe on social media. Reacting to their heartwarming conversation, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Babar and Kohli for being compassionate despite the rivalry.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-respond-after-kevin-pietersen-sends-message-of-support-to-former-india-captain-498150">Kohli, Anushka respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain</a></p>

<p>"So good to see this .. from one Champion to Another. well done," Harbhajan wrote in a tweet lauding both Kohli and Babar.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This too shall pass. Stay strong. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/ozr7BFFgXt">pic.twitter.com/ozr7BFFgXt</a></p>
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258/status/1547657073587933190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Kohli is currently playing for India in the ongoing ODI series against England, Babar is leading Pakistan in their Test series against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan skipper had opened up on his tweet for Kohli ahead of the series opener against Sri Lanka and said he understands what Kohli must be going through amid the slump in his form. Babar said Kohli needs to be backed and he can come out of this strongly.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>"As a player (tough) times can fall on you as well. I know how a player goes through such times and how he comes out of it. So he needs support in those times and as a player, I tweeted to support him. He is one of the best players and he knows how to come out of this. It takes time but we should back him," Babar said in the pre-match presser.</p>

<p>Kohli has so far managed only 59 runs in his last five innings for India across formats in their ongoing tour of England. The batting maestro will be hopeful of bouncing back to form with a big knock in the third and final ODI against the hosts on Sunday (July 17).</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam was lauded by many after he shared a message of support for Indian superstar Virat Kohli amid criticism ver his poor form. Kohli has been bashed by many over the last few months for his woeful form for Team India as he continues to struggle for consistency with the willow.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam was lauded by many after he shared a message of support for Indian superstar Virat Kohli amid criticism ver his poor form. Kohli has been bashed by many over the last few months for his woeful form for Team India as he continues to struggle for consistency with the willow. Some former cricketers and experts have also questioned his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. Amid his rough patch, Babar took to Twitter to extend support to Kohli with a heartfelt message. The Pakistan skipper urged Kohli to stay strong while stating that the bad phase will pass soon. Kohli acknowledged Babar's message and responded by thanking him while also wishing him to continue rising and shining for his team. The inspiring exchange between the duo despite the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan left many cricket fans in awe on social media. Reacting to their heartwarming conversation, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Babar and Kohli for being compassionate despite the rivalry. Also Read: Kohli, Anushka respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain "So good to see this .. from one Champion to Another. well done," Harbhajan wrote in a tweet lauding both Kohli and Babar. This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/ozr7BFFgXt — Babar Azam (@babarazam258) July 14, 2022 × While Kohli is currently playing for India in the ongoing ODI series against England, Babar is leading Pakistan in their Test series against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan skipper had opened up on his tweet for Kohli ahead of the series opener against Sri Lanka and said he understands what Kohli must be going through amid the slump in his form. Babar said Kohli needs to be backed and he can come out of this strongly. Also Read: Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch "As a player (tough) times can fall on you as well. I know how a player goes through such times and how he comes out of it. So he needs support in those times and as a player, I tweeted to support him. He is one of the best players and he knows how to come out of this. It takes time but we should back him," Babar said in the pre-match presser. Kohli has so far managed only 59 runs in his last five innings for India across formats in their ongoing tour of England. The batting maestro will be hopeful of bouncing back to form with a big knock in the third and final ODI against the hosts on Sunday (July 17).

'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange

<p>Virat Kohli has been receiving messages of support from all corners amid criticism over his poor form for Team India. Kohli has struggled for consistency across formats and has not been able to notch up big scores. He has not scored an international century since November 2019 and is on the verge of completing 1,000 days without scoring a ton for Team India.</p>

<p>Kohli had an average campaign for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 following which he was rested from the T20I series against South Africa at home. Kohli was expected to spark a turnaround with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England but he has failed to fire once again.</p>

<p>The batting maestro, who used to score centuries for fun at one stage in his career, has so far managed only 59 runs in his last five innings for India across formats against England amid questions over his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/70-tons-is-no-small-feat-dont-understand-how-could-people-think-about-dropping-virat-kohli-shoaib-akhtar-498048">70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar</a></p>

<p>"Buddy, your career has had some of the best that have played the game only wish they could have done what you have(so far). Be proud, walk tall &amp; enjoy life. There’s way more than just the bubble of cricket out there. You’ll be back," wrote Pietersen in a post on Instagram.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgEan4YtvVW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kevin Pietersen MBE (@kevinpietersen)</a></p>
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<p>Kohli took notice of Pietersen's post and responded by dropping a heart emoji in the comments section. His wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma also reacted to Pietersen's post for her husband and posted a heart emoji in the comments section.</p>

<p><img alt="Kohli Anushka" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2528a486-659a-4a82-aa28-e2692321d8c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohli%20Anushka%20comment.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>After failing to make an impact in the 2nd ODI against England in Nottingham where he was dismissed for 16 runs, Kohli will be eager to shut down his critics by notching up a big knock in the third and final ODI against the hosts on Sunday (July 17).</p>


Virat Kohli has been receiving messages of support from all corners amid criticism over his poor form for Team India. Kohli has struggled for consistency across formats and has not been able to notch up big scores.

Virat Kohli has been receiving messages of support from all corners amid criticism over his poor form for Team India. Kohli has struggled for consistency across formats and has not been able to notch up big scores. He has not scored an international century since November 2019 and is on the verge of completing 1,000 days without scoring a ton for Team India. Kohli had an average campaign for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 following which he was rested from the T20I series against South Africa at home. Kohli was expected to spark a turnaround with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England but he has failed to fire once again. The batting maestro, who used to score centuries for fun at one stage in his career, has so far managed only 59 runs in his last five innings for India across formats against England amid questions over his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Also Read: 70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar "Buddy, your career has had some of the best that have played the game only wish they could have done what you have(so far). Be proud, walk tall & enjoy life. There’s way more than just the bubble of cricket out there. You’ll be back," wrote Pietersen in a post on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kevin Pietersen MBE (@kevinpietersen) × Kohli took notice of Pietersen's post and responded by dropping a heart emoji in the comments section. His wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma also reacted to Pietersen's post for her husband and posted a heart emoji in the comments section. Also Read: Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch After failing to make an impact in the 2nd ODI against England in Nottingham where he was dismissed for 16 runs, Kohli will be eager to shut down his critics by notching up a big knock in the third and final ODI against the hosts on Sunday (July 17).

Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed Virat Kohli's critics and come out in defence of the senior India batter amid criticism from all corners over his poor form. Kohli has been facing the heat from fans, experts and former cricketers as he continues to struggle to deliver for the Indian team across all formats of the game. Kohli has been enduring a lean patch with the willow for a while now.</p>

<p>His last century in international cricket came over 900 days ago in November 2019. He has since failed to breach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game and has been stuck on 70 centuries in international cricket. Kohli was enjoying incredible consistency and was breaking records for fun at one point in his career but his form has dipped sharply over the last couple of years.</p>

<p>After an average campaign in IPL 2022, Kohli made his comeback for the Indian team in their ongoing tour of England and has failed to spark a turnaround. He has so far managed a shambolic 59 runs in his last 5 innings for India against England in what has been a disastrous tour for him with several former cricketers and experts questioning his spot in India's T20I team.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">&nbsp;Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>However, Kohi has found support from Akhtar, who believes the Indian star is one of the greatest players in the present era and has been one of the best batters in the world in the last ten years. Highlighting his 70 international centuries, Akhtar said it's no small feat and not everyone has the right to criticise Kohli.</p>

<p>"I am hearing a lot of criticism surrounding Virat Kohli. People are telling me that Kohli is over, he won't be able to do anything, and I tell them that Kohli is the greatest player in the world over the last 10 years. Now in the last 1-2 years, where apparently he has not been good enough, it is not like he has not scored runs," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"I don't understand how people could even think about the prospect of dropping Kohli. I respect Kapil Dev, and it is his opinion, he is a legend so he can say it, but no one else can say it. As a Pakistani, I support Kohli because scoring 70 hundreds is no small feat, only a great player can do this," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1000-days-without-an-international-century-can-virat-kohli-avoid-unwanted-feat-in-3rd-odi-against-england-497948">1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England</a></p>

<p>Kohli has so far played 15 matches for India in 2022 and has scored 459 runs at an average of 25.50 across all three formats without a single century. He has 220 runs in 4 Tests, 158 runs in 7 ODIs and 81 runs in 4 T20Is for India so far this year. Kohli will be hoping to end the England tour on a high when India lock horns with the hosts in the final 3rd ODI on Sunday (July 17).</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed Virat Kohli's critics and come out in defence of the senior India batter amid criticism from all corners over his poor form.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed Virat Kohli's critics and come out in defence of the senior India batter amid criticism from all corners over his poor form. Kohli has been facing the heat from fans, experts and former cricketers as he continues to struggle to deliver for the Indian team across all formats of the game. Kohli has been enduring a lean patch with the willow for a while now. His last century in international cricket came over 900 days ago in November 2019. He has since failed to breach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game and has been stuck on 70 centuries in international cricket. Kohli was enjoying incredible consistency and was breaking records for fun at one point in his career but his form has dipped sharply over the last couple of years. After an average campaign in IPL 2022, Kohli made his comeback for the Indian team in their ongoing tour of England and has failed to spark a turnaround. He has so far managed a shambolic 59 runs in his last 5 innings for India against England in what has been a disastrous tour for him with several former cricketers and experts questioning his spot in India's T20I team. Also Read: Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch However, Kohi has found support from Akhtar, who believes the Indian star is one of the greatest players in the present era and has been one of the best batters in the world in the last ten years. Highlighting his 70 international centuries, Akhtar said it's no small feat and not everyone has the right to criticise Kohli. "I am hearing a lot of criticism surrounding Virat Kohli. People are telling me that Kohli is over, he won't be able to do anything, and I tell them that Kohli is the greatest player in the world over the last 10 years. Now in the last 1-2 years, where apparently he has not been good enough, it is not like he has not scored runs," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel. "I don't understand how people could even think about the prospect of dropping Kohli. I respect Kapil Dev, and it is his opinion, he is a legend so he can say it, but no one else can say it. As a Pakistani, I support Kohli because scoring 70 hundreds is no small feat, only a great player can do this," he added. Also Read: 1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England Kohli has so far played 15 matches for India in 2022 and has scored 459 runs at an average of 25.50 across all three formats without a single century. He has 220 runs in 4 Tests, 158 runs in 7 ODIs and 81 runs in 4 T20Is for India so far this year. Kohli will be hoping to end the England tour on a high when India lock horns with the hosts in the final 3rd ODI on Sunday (July 17).

70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Virat Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar

<p>Senior India batter Virat Kohli acknowledged Pakistan captain Babar Azam's tweet extending support to him amid his ongoing lean patch for Team India. Kohli thanked Babar for his message and wished him to 'keep shining and rising' after he tweeted out to lend support to the Indian superstar. Kohli has been facing criticism from all corners over his poor form with the willow for the Indian team.</p>

<p>The former India skipper was expected to spark a turnaround in the team's ongoing tour of England but has failed to deliver once again. Kohli has been struggling to score runs consistently in international cricket for a while now and has not scored a century for the Indian team since November 2019.</p>

<p>His recent failure in the ongoing tour of England even led to several experts and former cricketers questioning his spot in the Indian T20I side ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Amid criticism from all corners, Kohli received support from Babar, who backed him to bounce back strongly from his lean patch.</p>

<p>"This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli," Babar wrote in a tweet on Friday. Not many had expected it, but Kohli responded to the tweet from the Pakistan skipper and thanked him for his support. "Thank you. Keep shining and rising. Wish you all the best," Kohli wrote replying to Babar.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you. Keep shining and rising. Wish you all the best</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1548271087045070855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-babar-azam-how-cricket-fraternity-has-reacted-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497683">From Rohit to Babar: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>The heartwarming exchange between Babar and Kohli despite the rivalry between India and Pakistan left many fans in awe of the two superstars on social media. While Kohli is currently in England with the rest of the Indian squad, Babar is leading Pakistan in the first Test of their ongoing two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1000-days-without-an-international-century-can-virat-kohli-avoid-unwanted-feat-in-3rd-odi-against-england-497948">1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England</a></p>

<p>Kohli's recent struggles have been well documented as he has failed to score runs at the same consistency that the Indian batting maestro was once known for. He has not scored a century for India across formats since November 2019 and is on the verge of going 1,000 days without an international ton if he fails to bring an end to the drought in the third and final ODI between India and England in Manchester on Sunday (July 17).</p>


Senior India batter Virat Kohli acknowledged Pakistan captain Babar Azam's tweet extending support to him amid his ongoing lean patch for Team India. Kohli thanked Babar for his message and wished him to 'keep shining and rising' after he tweeted out to lend support to the Indian superstar.

Senior India batter Virat Kohli acknowledged Pakistan captain Babar Azam's tweet extending support to him amid his ongoing lean patch for Team India. Kohli thanked Babar for his message and wished him to 'keep shining and rising' after he tweeted out to lend support to the Indian superstar. Kohli has been facing criticism from all corners over his poor form with the willow for the Indian team. The former India skipper was expected to spark a turnaround in the team's ongoing tour of England but has failed to deliver once again. Kohli has been struggling to score runs consistently in international cricket for a while now and has not scored a century for the Indian team since November 2019. His recent failure in the ongoing tour of England even led to several experts and former cricketers questioning his spot in the Indian T20I side ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Amid criticism from all corners, Kohli received support from Babar, who backed him to bounce back strongly from his lean patch. "This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli," Babar wrote in a tweet on Friday. Not many had expected it, but Kohli responded to the tweet from the Pakistan skipper and thanked him for his support. "Thank you. Keep shining and rising. Wish you all the best," Kohli wrote replying to Babar. Thank you. Keep shining and rising. Wish you all the best — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 16, 2022 × Also Read: From Rohit to Babar: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form The heartwarming exchange between Babar and Kohli despite the rivalry between India and Pakistan left many fans in awe of the two superstars on social media. While Kohli is currently in England with the rest of the Indian squad, Babar is leading Pakistan in the first Test of their ongoing two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. Also Read: 1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England Kohli's recent struggles have been well documented as he has failed to score runs at the same consistency that the Indian batting maestro was once known for. He has not scored a century for India across formats since November 2019 and is on the verge of going 1,000 days without an international ton if he fails to bring an end to the drought in the third and final ODI between India and England in Manchester on Sunday (July 17).

Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch

<p>Indian superstar Virat Kohli has witnessed one of the worst possible dips in his career as he continues to struggle with the willow across formats in international cricket. Kohli's form has been far from best over the past couple of years as the batting maestro has failed to churn out runs consistently. One of the best batters of the present era, Kohli was once unstoppable with the bat and was scoring centuries for fun.</p>

<p>However, little did the Indian cricket fans know he would go without scoring one for over two years. Kohli's last international century for India&nbsp;came during the team's first-ever pink-ball Test match against Bangladesh in November 2019. He has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game.</p>

<p>Kohli now stands on the cusp of achieving an unwanted feat amid his lean patch as he might go 1,000 days without scoring a hundred. The former Indian captain scored his last hundred on November 23, 2019, and has already gone 960 days without scoring a century in international cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-unfortunate-trolls-virat-kohli-owes-you-nothing-496965">Opinion | Unfortunate trolls, Virat Kohli owes you nothing</a></p>

<p>Kohli will be aiming to bring an end to his century drought when India lock horns with England in the third and final ODI of the ongoing three-match series. If he fails to end the deadlock in the third ODI at Old Trafford in Manchester, Kohli will go 1,000 days without an international century as he has been rested from India's upcoming limited-overs series against West Indies.</p>

<p>Kohli will only return to action during the Asia Cup which is scheduled to kick off on August 27. If the senior Indian batter fails to score a ton in the 3rd ODI against England, he will go more than 1,000 days without an international century for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-got-to-find-his-way-and-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497616">'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>The 33-year-old has not enjoyed the best of outings in the ongoing England tour of India so far. He has so far managed scores of 11, 20, 1,11 and 16 in his last five innings across formats and has flopped so far in England.</p>

<p>If Kohli manages to bounce back and score a ton in the final 3rd ODI, he will equal Ricky Ponting's record of 2nd most centuries in international cricket after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who tops the charts with 100 centuries to his name.</p>


Indian superstar Virat Kohli has witnessed one of the worst possible dips in his career as he continues to struggle with the willow across formats in international cricket.

Indian superstar Virat Kohli has witnessed one of the worst possible dips in his career as he continues to struggle with the willow across formats in international cricket. Kohli's form has been far from best over the past couple of years as the batting maestro has failed to churn out runs consistently. One of the best batters of the present era, Kohli was once unstoppable with the bat and was scoring centuries for fun. However, little did the Indian cricket fans know he would go without scoring one for over two years. Kohli's last international century for India came during the team's first-ever pink-ball Test match against Bangladesh in November 2019. He has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game. Kohli now stands on the cusp of achieving an unwanted feat amid his lean patch as he might go 1,000 days without scoring a hundred. The former Indian captain scored his last hundred on November 23, 2019, and has already gone 960 days without scoring a century in international cricket. Also Read: Opinion | Unfortunate trolls, Virat Kohli owes you nothing Kohli will be aiming to bring an end to his century drought when India lock horns with England in the third and final ODI of the ongoing three-match series. If he fails to end the deadlock in the third ODI at Old Trafford in Manchester, Kohli will go 1,000 days without an international century as he has been rested from India's upcoming limited-overs series against West Indies. Kohli will only return to action during the Asia Cup which is scheduled to kick off on August 27. If the senior Indian batter fails to score a ton in the 3rd ODI against England, he will go more than 1,000 days without an international century for the Men in Blue. Also Read: 'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form The 33-year-old has not enjoyed the best of outings in the ongoing England tour of India so far. He has so far managed scores of 11, 20, 1,11 and 16 in his last five innings across formats and has flopped so far in England. If Kohli manages to bounce back and score a ton in the final 3rd ODI, he will equal Ricky Ponting's record of 2nd most centuries in international cricket after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who tops the charts with 100 centuries to his name.

1,000 days without an international century? Can Virat Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam came up with a heartfelt gesture for Team India superstar Virat Kohi amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has been struggling for consistency across formats and has failed to fire with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England. Despite having been backed by the team management constantly, Kohli has not managed to notch up big knocks to shut his critics amid widespread backlash over his form.</p>

<p>Amid his woeful form, Pakistan skipper Babar took to Twitter to lend support to the former India captain. Babar won hearts with his tweet for Kohli which read - "This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli." He was lauded by many Indian fans and former cricketers for his nice gesture despite the rivalry between the two nations.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This too shall pass. Stay strong. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/ozr7BFFgXt">pic.twitter.com/ozr7BFFgXt</a></p>
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258/status/1547657073587933190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reacting to Babar's tweet for Kohli, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi lauded the Pakistan captain and said he has sent across a great message. Afridi said cricket can play a huge role in improving the relations between India and Pakistan amid political tensions between the two countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-babar-azam-how-cricket-fraternity-has-reacted-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497683">From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>However, he expressed disappointment over&nbsp;Kohli not responding to Babar's tweet for him and said it would have been a huge thing had Kohli replied to the message from the Pakistan skipper. Though he wants Kohli to reply to Babar's message, Afridi said he knew it won't happen.</p>

<p>"Be it cricket or any other sport, it improves relations (between countries). Athletes can do a much better job at it than politicians and a number of them are doing the same,"&nbsp;Afridi told&nbsp;Sports Central.</p>

<p>“Babar has given across a very good message. I don’t know if there has been a response from the other side. I think Virat should have responded by now. It would be a very big thing if there is a response to Babar’s tweet, but I don’t think that is going to happen," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-too-shall-pass-babar-azam-wins-hearts-with-his-tweet-for-virat-kohli-backs-him-to-end-lean-patch-497550">'This too shall pass' - Babar Azam wins hearts with his tweet for Virat Kohli, backs him to end lean patch</a></p>

<p>India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history but have not played a bilateral series against each other since 2013 owing to the political tensions between them. The arch-rivals continue to meet in only premier ICC tournaments.</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam came up with a heartfelt gesture for Team India superstar Virat Kohi amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has been struggling for consistency across formats and has failed to fire with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam came up with a heartfelt gesture for Team India superstar Virat Kohi amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has been struggling for consistency across formats and has failed to fire with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England. Despite having been backed by the team management constantly, Kohli has not managed to notch up big knocks to shut his critics amid widespread backlash over his form. Amid his woeful form, Pakistan skipper Babar took to Twitter to lend support to the former India captain. Babar won hearts with his tweet for Kohli which read - "This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli." He was lauded by many Indian fans and former cricketers for his nice gesture despite the rivalry between the two nations. This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/ozr7BFFgXt — Babar Azam (@babarazam258) July 14, 2022 × Reacting to Babar's tweet for Kohli, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi lauded the Pakistan captain and said he has sent across a great message. Afridi said cricket can play a huge role in improving the relations between India and Pakistan amid political tensions between the two countries. Also Read: From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form However, he expressed disappointment over Kohli not responding to Babar's tweet for him and said it would have been a huge thing had Kohli replied to the message from the Pakistan skipper. Though he wants Kohli to reply to Babar's message, Afridi said he knew it won't happen. "Be it cricket or any other sport, it improves relations (between countries). Athletes can do a much better job at it than politicians and a number of them are doing the same," Afridi told Sports Central. “Babar has given across a very good message. I don’t know if there has been a response from the other side. I think Virat should have responded by now. It would be a very big thing if there is a response to Babar’s tweet, but I don’t think that is going to happen," he added. Also Read: 'This too shall pass' - Babar Azam wins hearts with his tweet for Virat Kohli, backs him to end lean patch India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history but have not played a bilateral series against each other since 2013 owing to the political tensions between them. The arch-rivals continue to meet in only premier ICC tournaments.

'Virat should have responded': Shahid Afridi reacts to Babar Azam's tweet for Kohli amid his woeful form

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