Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli cannot wait to get on the field for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

IPL 2022 will begin with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) here at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

As RCB will lock horns with Punjab Kings in their first match of the tournament on Sunday. An 'excited'&nbsp;Kohli on Saturday shared pictures from his training session.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-crickets-crown-jewel-the-ipl-is-back-home-bigger-better-and-longer-465657">Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer</a>

"Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL are in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts," Virat Kohli said on Koo.

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<div style="padding: 10px"><a href="https://www.kooapp.com/koo/virat.kohli/de32ea74-6cdb-4248-a880-17aa8d49ea54" style="text-decoration:none;color: inherit !important;" target="_blank">Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts. 👌✅</a>

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Kohli, free from the responsibilities as the captain, is focused on helping RCB lift the IPL trophy this season.

Asked if relinquishing captaincy duties has given him refreshed energy, Kohli on the RCB website said, "(I have) renewed energy because I'm off a lot of responsibilities and duties. And life is in a very good place. We have a child now, we have a family. For me, it's all about going on with life with a lot of joy and happiness and just watching our child grow and then just doing what I love, which is playing cricket."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csk-vs-kkr-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-465662">IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads​</a>​​​​​​

"So, my focus is so clear now, it's so precise what I want to do. I want to just have a lot of fun and enjoy myself on the field and give myself fully to this team, to this franchise like I have for so many years, without any load. So, I'm absolutely ready," he added.

Coming back to IPL, the games will be played across stadiums in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune with an audience occupancy rate of 25 per cent as per COVID-19 protocols.

In all, 20 matches each will be held at Wankhede Stadium and DY Patil Stadium, 15 matches each at Brabourne and MCA International Stadium, Pune.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli cannot wait to get on the field for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. IPL 2022 will begin with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) here at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli cannot wait to get on the field for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. IPL 2022 will begin with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) here at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. As RCB will lock horns with Punjab Kings in their first match of the tournament on Sunday. An 'excited' Kohli on Saturday shared pictures from his training session. ALSO READ: Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer "Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL are in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts," Virat Kohli said on Koo. Koo App Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts. 👌✅ View attached media content - Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) 26 Mar 2022 × Kohli, free from the responsibilities as the captain, is focused on helping RCB lift the IPL trophy this season. Asked if relinquishing captaincy duties has given him refreshed energy, Kohli on the RCB website said, "(I have) renewed energy because I'm off a lot of responsibilities and duties. And life is in a very good place. We have a child now, we have a family. For me, it's all about going on with life with a lot of joy and happiness and just watching our child grow and then just doing what I love, which is playing cricket." ALSO READ: IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads "So, my focus is so clear now, it's so precise what I want to do. I want to just have a lot of fun and enjoy myself on the field and give myself fully to this team, to this franchise like I have for so many years, without any load. So, I'm absolutely ready," he added. Coming back to IPL, the games will be played across stadiums in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune with an audience occupancy rate of 25 per cent as per COVID-19 protocols. In all, 20 matches each will be held at Wankhede Stadium and DY Patil Stadium, 15 matches each at Brabourne and MCA International Stadium, Pune.

IPL 2022: Butterflies in stomach before tournament starts, says Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's clash against PBKS

Faf du Plessis will be leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 but his addition to the squad has raised debates on whether Virat Kohli will be opening the innings for the franchise.

Faf is being considered a confirmed opening batsman for RCB but questions remain over the batting position for former skipper Virat Kohli.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-man-the-legacy-ipl-shares-heartfelt-journey-of-ms-dhoni-as-csk-captain-post-sudden-resignation-465498" hreflang="en">IPL shares heartfelt journey of MS Dhoni as CSK captain - WATCH</a>

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Kohli should open the batting alongside Faf if RCB’s middle order is strong enough. Shastri said that it will all depend on the balance of the team.<o:p></o:p>

"That depends on the balance of the team. I wouldn't know what their middle order is, but just in case they've got a very strong middle order, then there's no harm in Virat opening," Shastri told EspnCricinfo.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2022-rishabh-pant-needs-to-maintain-his-aggressive-edge-for-dc-says-ricky-ponting-465468" hreflang="en">Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting</a>

Kohli opened the innings alongside Devdutt Padikkal last season and in 2016, it was the same position where he scored a record 973 runs in a season. However, with no AB de Villiers and a bunch of new faces in the middle order, a lot of experts believe that Kohli can decide to bat at No 3.<o:p></o:p>

RCB will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27. They will then face Kolkata Knight Riders on March 30 in their second game. Ahead of the season, Kohli decided to leave the captaincy role and RCB decided to go with the experience of Faf. The South Africa international was the second highest run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings last season as they cruised to their fourth IPL title.<o:p></o:p>

Faf du Plessis will be leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 but his addition to the squad has raised debates on whether Virat Kohli will be opening the innings for the franchise.

Faf du Plessis will be leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 but his addition to the squad has raised debates on whether Virat Kohli will be opening the innings for the franchise. Faf is being considered a confirmed opening batsman for RCB but questions remain over the batting position for former skipper Virat Kohli. Also read | IPL shares heartfelt journey of MS Dhoni as CSK captain - WATCH Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Kohli should open the batting alongside Faf if RCB’s middle order is strong enough. Shastri said that it will all depend on the balance of the team. "That depends on the balance of the team. I wouldn't know what their middle order is, but just in case they've got a very strong middle order, then there's no harm in Virat opening," Shastri told EspnCricinfo. Also read | Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting Kohli opened the innings alongside Devdutt Padikkal last season and in 2016, it was the same position where he scored a record 973 runs in a season. However, with no AB de Villiers and a bunch of new faces in the middle order, a lot of experts believe that Kohli can decide to bat at No 3. RCB will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27. They will then face Kolkata Knight Riders on March 30 in their second game. Ahead of the season, Kohli decided to leave the captaincy role and RCB decided to go with the experience of Faf. The South Africa international was the second highest run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings last season as they cruised to their fourth IPL title.

IPL 2022: Ravi Shastri has his say on Virat Kohli's batting position for Royal Challengers Bangalore

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday lavished praise on MS Dhoni's "legendary" tenure as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and said the fans will never forget the rich legacy of the wicket-keeper batter.

MS Dhoni has decided to hand over the leadership of CSK to Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the much-awaited season of IPL 2022.

"Legendary captaincy tenure in yellow skip. A chapter fans will never forget. Respect always," Kohli captioned the post on Koo app.

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Jadeja, who has been an integral part of CSK since 2012, will only be the third player to lead the Chennai-based franchise.

Dhoni will continue to represent CSK this season, an official statement from the franchise confirmed.

Dhoni, who was the most expensive buy at the inaugural IPL auction in February 2008, has been the captain of CSK since the beginning of the IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ravindra-jadejas-first-reactions-after-becoming-csk-captain-watch-465244">IPL 2022: Ravindra Jadeja's 'first reactions' after becoming CSK captain - Watch</a>

Under his leadership, CSK has registered a record 121 wins in 204 matches in the IPL.

The IPL games will be played across stadiums in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune with an audience occupancy rate of 25 per cent as per COVID-19 protocols.

In all, 20 matches each will be held at Wankhede Stadium &amp; DY Patil Stadium, 15 matches each at Brabourne and MCA International Stadium, Pune.&nbsp;

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday lavished praise on MS Dhoni's "legendary" tenure as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and said the fans will never forget the rich legacy of the wicket-keeper batter.

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday lavished praise on MS Dhoni's "legendary" tenure as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and said the fans will never forget the rich legacy of the wicket-keeper batter. MS Dhoni has decided to hand over the leadership of CSK to Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the much-awaited season of IPL 2022. "Legendary captaincy tenure in yellow skip. A chapter fans will never forget. Respect always," Kohli captioned the post on Koo app. Koo App Legendary captaincy tenure in yellow skip. A chapter fans will never forget. Respect always. ❤️💛 #MSDhoni View attached media content - Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) 24 Mar 2022 × Jadeja, who has been an integral part of CSK since 2012, will only be the third player to lead the Chennai-based franchise. Dhoni will continue to represent CSK this season, an official statement from the franchise confirmed. Dhoni, who was the most expensive buy at the inaugural IPL auction in February 2008, has been the captain of CSK since the beginning of the IPL. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Ravindra Jadeja's 'first reactions' after becoming CSK captain - Watch Under his leadership, CSK has registered a record 121 wins in 204 matches in the IPL. The IPL games will be played across stadiums in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune with an audience occupancy rate of 25 per cent as per COVID-19 protocols. In all, 20 matches each will be held at Wankhede Stadium & DY Patil Stadium, 15 matches each at Brabourne and MCA International Stadium, Pune.

'A chapter fans will never forget': Virat Kohli praises MS Dhoni's 'legendary' captaincy tenure at CSK

The second and penultimate Test between Pakistan and Australia, in Karachi, went down to the wire as the Babar Azam-led hosts made a match out of it when play resumed on Day Five, with the score being 192 for 2 in pursuit of a daunting 506-run target. Riding on skipper Babar's impressive and gritty 196 and Mohammad Rizwan's 104 not out, Pakistan managed to give a scare to Pat Cummins-led Aussies before settling for a draw at 443-7.&nbsp;

After Babar's recent heroics, he has won hearts once again worldwide as his stature continues to rise with each passing day. Thus, former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal lavished huge praise on Babar and has placed him on the same level as Virat Kohli. Following his 196 versus Australia, many have raised voices that Babar deserves to enter the Fab Four batters in the modern era (comprising Kohli, Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Steve Smith).

In this regard, Ajmal spoke highly of Babar and also lauded young guns such as Md Rizwan and speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-jadeja-regains-no-1-spot-among-all-rounders-babar-azam-breaks-into-top-5-for-batters-464891">ICC Test rankings: Jadeja regains No. 1 spot among all-rounders, Babar Azam breaks into top 5 for batters</a>

"Such players are very rare to grace an era. Such players are very rare. The greatest of this era are Virat Kohli, Babar Azam; even Mohammad Rizwan has shown such great improvement in the last year, year and a half. He is the most improved cricketer in world cricket. He has proven himself in every format. He has aggression and calmness at the same time. He has everything and has performed well. But having said that, what Babar Azam has achieved in the last year is worth appreciating," Ajmal told Cricket Pakistan.

"If you talk about bowlers… among spinner, Nathan Lyon has delivered impressive performances over the last five years. Among pacers, players like Shaheen Afridi, Mitchell Starc and Jasprit Bumrah have given match-winning performances," he further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-aus-commentator-kasprowicz-corrects-himself-in-a-jiffy-after-calling-lahore-pitch-flat-watch-464850">Pak vs Aus: Commentator Kasprowicz corrects himself in a jiffy after calling Lahore pitch flat - WATCH</a>

Currently, Babar-led Pakistan is involved in the third and final Test versus Australia at the Gadaffi Stadium, Lahore. After stumps on Day 3, the home side are behind following a shocking collapse, to be reduced from 264-5 to 268 all-out in reply to Australia's first-innings score of 391. In their second essay, the Aussies are 11/0 after play ended on Wednesday (March 23).

Will Babar &amp; Co. once again stand tall and weather the storm in the series decider? The series is levelled at 0-0.

The second and penultimate Test between Pakistan and Australia, in Karachi, went down to the wire as the Babar Azam-led hosts made a match out of it when play resumed on Day Five, with the score being 192 for 2 in pursuit of a daunting 506-run target.

The second and penultimate Test between Pakistan and Australia, in Karachi, went down to the wire as the Babar Azam-led hosts made a match out of it when play resumed on Day Five, with the score being 192 for 2 in pursuit of a daunting 506-run target. Riding on skipper Babar's impressive and gritty 196 and Mohammad Rizwan's 104 not out, Pakistan managed to give a scare to Pat Cummins-led Aussies before settling for a draw at 443-7. After Babar's recent heroics, he has won hearts once again worldwide as his stature continues to rise with each passing day. Thus, former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal lavished huge praise on Babar and has placed him on the same level as Virat Kohli. Following his 196 versus Australia, many have raised voices that Babar deserves to enter the Fab Four batters in the modern era (comprising Kohli, Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Steve Smith). In this regard, Ajmal spoke highly of Babar and also lauded young guns such as Md Rizwan and speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi. ALSO READ | ICC Test rankings: Jadeja regains No. 1 spot among all-rounders, Babar Azam breaks into top 5 for batters "Such players are very rare to grace an era. Such players are very rare. The greatest of this era are Virat Kohli, Babar Azam; even Mohammad Rizwan has shown such great improvement in the last year, year and a half. He is the most improved cricketer in world cricket. He has proven himself in every format. He has aggression and calmness at the same time. He has everything and has performed well. But having said that, what Babar Azam has achieved in the last year is worth appreciating," Ajmal told Cricket Pakistan. "If you talk about bowlers… among spinner, Nathan Lyon has delivered impressive performances over the last five years. Among pacers, players like Shaheen Afridi, Mitchell Starc and Jasprit Bumrah have given match-winning performances," he further asserted. ALSO READ | Pak vs Aus: Commentator Kasprowicz corrects himself in a jiffy after calling Lahore pitch flat - WATCH Currently, Babar-led Pakistan is involved in the third and final Test versus Australia at the Gadaffi Stadium, Lahore. After stumps on Day 3, the home side are behind following a shocking collapse, to be reduced from 264-5 to 268 all-out in reply to Australia's first-innings score of 391. In their second essay, the Aussies are 11/0 after play ended on Wednesday (March 23). Will Babar & Co. once again stand tall and weather the storm in the series decider? The series is levelled at 0-0.

'Greatest of this era are Virat Kohli, Babar Azam' - Former spinner heaps praise on Pakistan captain

Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore at the end of IPL 2021 last year and is all set to play under another captain for the franchise for the first time since 2013. Kohli, who led RCB for eight seasons from 2013 to 2021, is the only player in the league to have represented only one franchise so far in his career.

Kohli was appointed as RCB's permanent captain in 2013 and came close to inspiring the side to their first IPL title in 2016. However, RCB lost against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final to miss out on the trophy. Kohli has been replaced by former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis as RCB's new captain ahead of IPL 2022.

Du Plessis was roped in by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month and will be leading a team for the first time in his IPL career. Du Plessis played under MS Dhoni's captaincy in his former side Chennai Super Kings and has won the IPL title twice as a player.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-kl-rahul-to-ruturaj-gaikwad-top-five-contenders-for-orange-cap-in-ipl-2022-464619">From KL Rahul to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Top five contenders for Orange Cap in IPL 2022</a>

Veteran Indian spinner R Ashwin, who will be playing for Rajasthan Royals this year in the IPL, believes RCB have made a good decision by appointing Du Plessis as captain but the franchise might re-appoint Kohli next year. Ashwin believes RCB have handed over the leadership role to experienced Du Plessis only to give Kohli a break and take some responsibilities off his shoulders.

“Faf is more like towards the end of his IPL career. Maybe, he has two-three years left with him. And they have made him the captain, which is quite a good decision. He brings in a lot of experience and in fact, he has himself said that we can see a bit of MS Dhoni’s touch in his captaincy skills,” Ashwin said in a video on his Youtube channel.

“I feel that since Virat Kohli has undergone a lot of stress as a captain in the last few years, this year will be like a break for him and they might appoint him as a captain next year is my guess," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-issues-warning-to-kl-rahul-no-guarantee-that-ipl-will-help-you-become-india-captain-464781">Gautam Gambhir issues warning to KL Rahul: No guarantee that IPL will help you become India captain</a>

It remains to be seen if Kohli, who has also left Indian team's captaincy across all formats, will return as RCB captain next year. Kohli has so far led RCB in a total of 140 matches and has 64 wins to his name. RCB are yet to win their maiden IPL title and will hope for a change in fortunes this time around.

Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore at the end of IPL 2021 last year and is all set to play under another captain for the franchise for the first time since 2013.

Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore at the end of IPL 2021 last year and is all set to play under another captain for the franchise for the first time since 2013. Kohli, who led RCB for eight seasons from 2013 to 2021, is the only player in the league to have represented only one franchise so far in his career. Kohli was appointed as RCB's permanent captain in 2013 and came close to inspiring the side to their first IPL title in 2016. However, RCB lost against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final to miss out on the trophy. Kohli has been replaced by former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis as RCB's new captain ahead of IPL 2022. Du Plessis was roped in by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month and will be leading a team for the first time in his IPL career. Du Plessis played under MS Dhoni's captaincy in his former side Chennai Super Kings and has won the IPL title twice as a player. Also Read: From KL Rahul to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Top five contenders for Orange Cap in IPL 2022 Veteran Indian spinner R Ashwin, who will be playing for Rajasthan Royals this year in the IPL, believes RCB have made a good decision by appointing Du Plessis as captain but the franchise might re-appoint Kohli next year. Ashwin believes RCB have handed over the leadership role to experienced Du Plessis only to give Kohli a break and take some responsibilities off his shoulders. “Faf is more like towards the end of his IPL career. Maybe, he has two-three years left with him. And they have made him the captain, which is quite a good decision. He brings in a lot of experience and in fact, he has himself said that we can see a bit of MS Dhoni’s touch in his captaincy skills,” Ashwin said in a video on his Youtube channel. “I feel that since Virat Kohli has undergone a lot of stress as a captain in the last few years, this year will be like a break for him and they might appoint him as a captain next year is my guess," he added. Also Read: Gautam Gambhir issues warning to KL Rahul: No guarantee that IPL will help you become India captain It remains to be seen if Kohli, who has also left Indian team's captaincy across all formats, will return as RCB captain next year. Kohli has so far led RCB in a total of 140 matches and has 64 wins to his name. RCB are yet to win their maiden IPL title and will hope for a change in fortunes this time around.

Faf du Plessis as captain a good decision but RCB might replace him with Virat Kohli next year: R Ashwin

Virat Kohli will enter IPL 2022 with no additional responsibility of captaining the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as he gave up on the top job with the franchise's end of the campaign in IPL 2021.

The 33-year-old Kohli led RCB from 2011-2021, though he became a permanent captain in IPL 2013. While the Bengaluru-based franchise did well under him in some seasons, with their best being the IPL 2016 final appearance, they remained trophy-less even during Kohli's decade-long tenure.

Ahead of the commencement of the new IPL season, from March 26, Kohli reflected on IPL's overall journey, his family's presence and support whereas he also revealed the chat he had with his successor Faf du Plessis as soon the South African was roped in by the RCB franchise in the two-day IPL 15 mega auction (where Faf was bought for INR 70 million).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-jasprit-bumrah-to-kagiso-rabada-a-look-at-five-players-who-might-win-purple-cap-in-ipl-2022-464084">From Jasprit Bumrah to Kagiso Rabada: A look at five players who might win Purple Cap in IPL 2022</a>

"Wow 15 [IPL season]! It's quite unbelievable IPL has come this far and yeah [I am here with] renewed energy because I am off a lot of responsibilities and duties and life is in a very good place. We have a child now, we have a family and for me it's all about going on about life with a lot of joy and happiness and watching our child grow and doing what I love, which is playing cricket," the 33-year old said.

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King Kohli talks about his renewed energy, the confidence he has in Faf, and more on <a href="https://twitter.com/kreditbee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kreditbee</a> presents Bold Diaries.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mission2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mission2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/QQlaAFTpuO">pic.twitter.com/QQlaAFTpuO</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1506110921395081219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-virat-kohli-to-ab-de-villiers-superstar-batters-with-most-ipl-hundreds-463535">From Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli to AB de Villiers - Superstar batters with most IPL hundreds</a>

"I messaged him as soon as he was picked for RCB. Sounded him off a little bit about what's to come. It was made official afterwards but I knew obviously that getting Faf at auction, the plan was very clear that we needed a leader in the change room and he commands that respect," he further added.

Faf was recently announced as Kohli's successor at the popular franchise. He has his task cut out to motivate the troops and take them to their first-ever IPL championship in the forthcoming edition.&nbsp;

RCB will play their season-opener versus Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 27 at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.

RCB squad for IPL 2022

Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma,&nbsp;David Willey.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli will enter IPL 2022 with no additional responsibility of captaining the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as he gave up on the top job with the franchise's end of the campaign in IPL 2021.

Virat Kohli will enter IPL 2022 with no additional responsibility of captaining the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as he gave up on the top job with the franchise's end of the campaign in IPL 2021. The 33-year-old Kohli led RCB from 2011-2021, though he became a permanent captain in IPL 2013. While the Bengaluru-based franchise did well under him in some seasons, with their best being the IPL 2016 final appearance, they remained trophy-less even during Kohli's decade-long tenure. Ahead of the commencement of the new IPL season, from March 26, Kohli reflected on IPL's overall journey, his family's presence and support whereas he also revealed the chat he had with his successor Faf du Plessis as soon the South African was roped in by the RCB franchise in the two-day IPL 15 mega auction (where Faf was bought for INR 70 million). ALSO READ | From Jasprit Bumrah to Kagiso Rabada: A look at five players who might win Purple Cap in IPL 2022 "Wow 15 [IPL season]! It's quite unbelievable IPL has come this far and yeah [I am here with] renewed energy because I am off a lot of responsibilities and duties and life is in a very good place. We have a child now, we have a family and for me it's all about going on about life with a lot of joy and happiness and watching our child grow and doing what I love, which is playing cricket," the 33-year old said. King Kohli talks about his renewed energy, the confidence he has in Faf, and more on @kreditbee presents Bold Diaries.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPL2022 #Mission2022 @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/QQlaAFTpuO — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 22, 2022 × ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli to AB de Villiers - Superstar batters with most IPL hundreds "I messaged him as soon as he was picked for RCB. Sounded him off a little bit about what's to come. It was made official afterwards but I knew obviously that getting Faf at auction, the plan was very clear that we needed a leader in the change room and he commands that respect," he further added. Faf was recently announced as Kohli's successor at the popular franchise. He has his task cut out to motivate the troops and take them to their first-ever IPL championship in the forthcoming edition. RCB will play their season-opener versus Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 27 at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. RCB squad for IPL 2022 Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma, David Willey.

IPL 2022: Virat Kohli reveals chat with Faf du Plessis after he got picked by RCB in mega auction

The excitement for IPL 2022 is on another level as the upcoming season's commencement is just a few days away. This year's edition is keenly awaited as the ardent IPL fans want to see how the two new teams perform and what they bring to the table whereas many are making predictions on which youngster will make a mark, which side will have the last laugh, etc.

Amid all this, Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik joined the bandwagon and made a bold claim regarding which player he feels will be the 'one to watch out for' in IPL 2022, set to get underway on March 26 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

"Definitely David Warner (when being asked about the player to watch out for). And I say that because he's someone who has shown greatness in IPL over a period of time, [he has won] three Orange Caps. Obviously, last year didn't go according to plan but I am sure he'll have a point to prove. He's gone back to a franchise that he's played for before. Interestingly, I've played with him in that franchise, terrific cricketer, and I am pretty sure he'll have a very, very good season," Karthik said in a chat with Cricbuzz.

Many other marquee cricketers such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Quinton de Kock, Jonny Bairstow, etc. will also like to make a mark in the forthcoming season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-virat-kohli-to-ab-de-villiers-superstar-batters-with-most-ipl-hundreds-463535">From Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli to AB de Villiers - Superstar batters with most IPL hundreds</a>

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On the other hand, DK also predicted who will be the most valuable overseas player in IPL 2022. In this regard, he picked New Zealand's Devon Conway, his RCB captain Faf du Plessis' replacement in the CSK camp, to do wonders for the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army.

"Devon Conway (overseas MVP). He's a new import, he's going to make his debut for CSK. Terrific player. He's had a brilliant couple of seasons for New Zealand, did very well even in the World Cup under pressure even though he batted in the middle-order which is not something he does [often]. I have a feeling he's a very strong player and will go very very well for CSK," opined Karthik.
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The excitement for IPL 2022 is on another level as the upcoming season's commencement is just a few days away. This year's edition is keenly awaited as the ardent IPL fans want to see how the two new teams perform and what they bring to the table whereas many are making predictions on which youngster will make a mark, which side will have the last laugh, etc.

The excitement for IPL 2022 is on another level as the upcoming season's commencement is just a few days away. This year's edition is keenly awaited as the ardent IPL fans want to see how the two new teams perform and what they bring to the table whereas many are making predictions on which youngster will make a mark, which side will have the last laugh, etc. Amid all this, Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik joined the bandwagon and made a bold claim regarding which player he feels will be the 'one to watch out for' in IPL 2022, set to get underway on March 26 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. "Definitely David Warner (when being asked about the player to watch out for). And I say that because he's someone who has shown greatness in IPL over a period of time, [he has won] three Orange Caps. Obviously, last year didn't go according to plan but I am sure he'll have a point to prove. He's gone back to a franchise that he's played for before. Interestingly, I've played with him in that franchise, terrific cricketer, and I am pretty sure he'll have a very, very good season," Karthik said in a chat with Cricbuzz. Many other marquee cricketers such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Quinton de Kock, Jonny Bairstow, etc. will also like to make a mark in the forthcoming season. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli to AB de Villiers - Superstar batters with most IPL hundreds On the other hand, DK also predicted who will be the most valuable overseas player in IPL 2022. In this regard, he picked New Zealand's Devon Conway, his RCB captain Faf du Plessis' replacement in the CSK camp, to do wonders for the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army. "Devon Conway (overseas MVP). He's a new import, he's going to make his debut for CSK. Terrific player. He's had a brilliant couple of seasons for New Zealand, did very well even in the World Cup under pressure even though he batted in the middle-order which is not something he does [often]. I have a feeling he's a very strong player and will go very very well for CSK," opined Karthik.

Not Virat Kohli or KL Rahul! RCB's Dinesh Karthik picks 'player to watch out for' in IPL 2022

Team India star Shreyas Iyer recently picked KL Rahul as his favourite captain and explained the reason behind the same. Iyer, who has become an integral member of the Indian team across formats with his impressive performances recently, is himself seen as one of the potential leaders of the Indian team going forward.

Iyer has already proved the mettle of his captaincy in the Indian Premier League (IPL) having led his former side Delhi Capitals to their maiden final in the 2020 season. Iyer, who left DC ahead of IPL 2022, has been roped in by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as their new captain ahead of the upcoming season.

Iyer, who played under Rahul's captaincy for the Indian team during the ODI series against South Africa last year, said the star batter is an outstanding player and has a calm demeanour as a leader. Iyer said Rahul was the first captain to give him a chance to bowl for India which no other captain had done before which is why he was his favourite.

“It was nice to play under him. Firstly, he is an outstanding player. The confidence he carries on the field and in the team meetings, the support that he provides to the players is great," Iyer said while speaking on the Red Bull clubhouse.

"He’s got a very calm demeanour and his on-field decision making is very instinctive. I really enjoyed playing under him. Also, he gave me three overs of bowling, which none of the captains previously had done. So yeah, he’s my favourite captain," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="Stephen Fleming names three overseas stars who CSK got for cheap at IPL 2022 mega auction - WATCH">Stephen Fleming names three overseas stars who CSK got for cheap at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

Rahul had led the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma during the ODI series against South Africa. However, India failed to win even a single game in the three-match series under Rahul's captaincy in what was a disappointing outing for the Men in Blue against the Proteas.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t-natarajan-breaks-a-stump-into-two-as-sunrisers-hyderabad-pacer-breathes-fire-ahead-of-ipl-2022-watch-464044">&nbsp;T Natarajan breaks a stump into two as Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer breathes fire ahead of IPL 2022&nbsp;</a>

Nonetheless, Iyer, who has played under the likes of Virat Kohli and current skipper Rohit, decided to pick Rahul as his favourite captain among all. While Iyer will be leading his new side KKR in IPL 2022 this year, Rahul will also be leading his new team Lucknow Super Giants after being roped in for a whopping Rs 17 crore (INR 170 million) at the mega auction last month.

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Team India star Shreyas Iyer recently picked KL Rahul as his favourite captain and explained the reason behind the same. Iyer, who has become an integral member of the Indian team across formats with his impressive performances recently, is himself seen as one of the potential leaders of the Indian team going forward.

Team India star Shreyas Iyer recently picked KL Rahul as his favourite captain and explained the reason behind the same. Iyer, who has become an integral member of the Indian team across formats with his impressive performances recently, is himself seen as one of the potential leaders of the Indian team going forward. Iyer has already proved the mettle of his captaincy in the Indian Premier League (IPL) having led his former side Delhi Capitals to their maiden final in the 2020 season. Iyer, who left DC ahead of IPL 2022, has been roped in by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as their new captain ahead of the upcoming season. Iyer, who played under Rahul's captaincy for the Indian team during the ODI series against South Africa last year, said the star batter is an outstanding player and has a calm demeanour as a leader. Iyer said Rahul was the first captain to give him a chance to bowl for India which no other captain had done before which is why he was his favourite. “It was nice to play under him. Firstly, he is an outstanding player. The confidence he carries on the field and in the team meetings, the support that he provides to the players is great," Iyer said while speaking on the Red Bull clubhouse. "He’s got a very calm demeanour and his on-field decision making is very instinctive. I really enjoyed playing under him. Also, he gave me three overs of bowling, which none of the captains previously had done. So yeah, he’s my favourite captain," he added. Also Read: Stephen Fleming names three overseas stars who CSK got for cheap at IPL 2022 mega auction Rahul had led the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma during the ODI series against South Africa. However, India failed to win even a single game in the three-match series under Rahul's captaincy in what was a disappointing outing for the Men in Blue against the Proteas. Also Read: T Natarajan breaks a stump into two as Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer breathes fire ahead of IPL 2022 Nonetheless, Iyer, who has played under the likes of Virat Kohli and current skipper Rohit, decided to pick Rahul as his favourite captain among all. While Iyer will be leading his new side KKR in IPL 2022 this year, Rahul will also be leading his new team Lucknow Super Giants after being roped in for a whopping Rs 17 crore (INR 170 million) at the mega auction last month.

Not Kohli or Rohit! Shreyas Iyer picks KL Rahul as his 'favourite' captain, explains why

A new-look Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will take the field in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 this year. RCB will be led by their new captain Faf du Plessis, who has replaced Virat Kohli as the skipper of the side and the franchise will also be without one of their biggest superstars AB de Villiers, who has retired from cricket. This will be RCB's first season without Kohli as the captain of the side.

Kohli led the side for eight years since taking over the captaincy in 2013&nbsp;and had led RCB to playoffs in the last two seasons. However, the team failed to lift their maiden IPL trophy under the former skipper. With Du Plessis now in charge, RCB will be hoping for a turnaround in fortunes this year.

Du Plessis, who was roped in by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL mega auction last month, is expected to open the batting for the team in the upcoming season. Du Plessis, who was with four-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings last season, enjoyed some of his best performances as an opener for the MS Dhoni-led side.

While there have been speculations that Kohli might pair up with Du Plessis at the top to open the innings for RCB in IPL 2022, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has suggested another name for the opening slot. Jaffer believes Kohli will be best suited to bat at number three where he can pace his innings well. The former India batter wants RCB to play uncapped Indian youngster Anuj Rawat as an opener.

“I also feel that Faf and Virat are similar kinds of players so Virat at No. 3 and Maxy (Glenn Maxwell) at No. 4 seems a better combination. Anuj Rawat, he’s a left-hander as well, bats in the powerplay for Delhi, opens in the [Syed] Mushtaq Ali [Trophy] - we could see him opening the batting and I would like to see Virat at No. 3," said Jaffer on EspnCricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-star-robin-uthappa-shuts-down-pakistani-journalist-over-tweet-comparing-ipl-with-psl-463954">CSK star Robin Uthappa shuts down Pakistani journalist over tweet comparing IPL with PSL</a>

Explaining the reason behind his suggestion to not open the batting with Kohli, Jaffer said the former RCB skipper has his own style of pacing his game and often tries to force himself a bit in the powerplay which is not his game.

“I prefer Virat Kohli batting at No. 3. I feel he can pace the game very well from there whether he comes to bat in the powerplay or after that," said Jaffer.

“He’s somebody who takes some time initially and then his strike rate progressively goes up. In the powerplay, it seems as he forces himself a bit to hit by using the crease which I don’t think is his game. He’s obviously been successful as well but I think he plays better at No. 3," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/expected-him-to-be-like-that-gautam-gambhir-opens-up-on-his-on-field-spat-with-virat-kohli-in-ipl-2013-463735">'Expected him to be like that': Gautam Gambhir opens up on his on-field spat with Virat Kohli in IPL 2013</a>

RCB will open their IPL 2022 campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27 before locking horns with Kolkata Knight Riders in their next game on March 30.

A new-look Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will take the field in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 this year. RCB will be led by their new captain Faf du Plessis, who has replaced Virat Kohli as the skipper of the side and the franchise will also be without one of their biggest superstars AB de Villiers, who has retired from cricket.

A new-look Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will take the field in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 this year. RCB will be led by their new captain Faf du Plessis, who has replaced Virat Kohli as the skipper of the side and the franchise will also be without one of their biggest superstars AB de Villiers, who has retired from cricket. This will be RCB's first season without Kohli as the captain of the side. Kohli led the side for eight years since taking over the captaincy in 2013 and had led RCB to playoffs in the last two seasons. However, the team failed to lift their maiden IPL trophy under the former skipper. With Du Plessis now in charge, RCB will be hoping for a turnaround in fortunes this year. Du Plessis, who was roped in by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL mega auction last month, is expected to open the batting for the team in the upcoming season. Du Plessis, who was with four-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings last season, enjoyed some of his best performances as an opener for the MS Dhoni-led side. While there have been speculations that Kohli might pair up with Du Plessis at the top to open the innings for RCB in IPL 2022, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has suggested another name for the opening slot. Jaffer believes Kohli will be best suited to bat at number three where he can pace his innings well. The former India batter wants RCB to play uncapped Indian youngster Anuj Rawat as an opener. “I also feel that Faf and Virat are similar kinds of players so Virat at No. 3 and Maxy (Glenn Maxwell) at No. 4 seems a better combination. Anuj Rawat, he’s a left-hander as well, bats in the powerplay for Delhi, opens in the [Syed] Mushtaq Ali [Trophy] - we could see him opening the batting and I would like to see Virat at No. 3," said Jaffer on EspnCricinfo. Also Read: CSK star Robin Uthappa shuts down Pakistani journalist over tweet comparing IPL with PSL Explaining the reason behind his suggestion to not open the batting with Kohli, Jaffer said the former RCB skipper has his own style of pacing his game and often tries to force himself a bit in the powerplay which is not his game. “I prefer Virat Kohli batting at No. 3. I feel he can pace the game very well from there whether he comes to bat in the powerplay or after that," said Jaffer. “He’s somebody who takes some time initially and then his strike rate progressively goes up. In the powerplay, it seems as he forces himself a bit to hit by using the crease which I don’t think is his game. He’s obviously been successful as well but I think he plays better at No. 3," he added. Also Read: 'Expected him to be like that': Gautam Gambhir opens up on his on-field spat with Virat Kohli in IPL 2013 RCB will open their IPL 2022 campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27 before locking horns with Kolkata Knight Riders in their next game on March 30.

Not Virat Kohli! Wasim Jaffer names Indian youngster who should open with Faf du Plessis for RCB in IPL 2022

Former India opener and ex-captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Gautam Gambhir recently opened up on his heated on-field spat with Virat Kohli during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2013. Gambhir and Kohli were involved in a heated argument on the field after the latter was dismissed by pacer Laxmipathy Balaji in the game.

Gambhir, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles as captain, is one of the most successful captains in the history of the league. The former India opener had lost his cool on Kohli during a game between Royal Challengers Bangalore and KKR in IPL 2013. While Gambhir had already led KKR to their maiden title in the previous year, it was Kohli's first year as the captain of RCB.

During the game, Kohli was seen losing his temper after getting dismissed by Balaji. He later went on to have a heated spat with Gambhir. Opening up on the incident, Gambhir said he was absolutely fine with what unfolded on the day as he likes people who are competitive. Both Gambhir was fierce competitor during his playing days, Kohli's aggressive style of playing his game is a secret to none.

"That's OK, I am absolutely fine with it and I expect him to be like that. I am like that. I like that contest, I like people who are competitive. MS Dhoni is a competitor in his own way, Virat is a competitor in his own way," Gambhir said when asked about the incident&nbsp;on popular sports presenter Jatin Sapru's YouTube channel.

"Sometimes when you are leading the side, you have to do it even if you don't want to do it because you want your team to play the way you want. As a leader, sometimes you are not thinking about personal relationships with the other guy [but] just because you are leading a team, you have to do it," he explained further.

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-lot-of-respect-for-ms-dhoni-will-be-the-first-person-standing-next-to-him-in-need-gautam-gambhir-463579">Have lot of respect for MS Dhoni, will be the first person standing next to him in need: Gautam Gambhir</a>

Gambhir clarified that there was nothing personal between him and Kohli and that there have never been anything personal between the duo. He also hailed the former Indian captain for the way he has transformed into one of the best batters in the world from a young prodigy during his initial days in international cricket.

Gambhir said he is not at all surprised by what Kohli has managed to achieve in his career so far and lauded the star batter for working on his fitness and game to become the world-beater that he is today.

"That's why there was nothing personal [then] and there never will be personal against Virat Kohli. And I say it again and again that what he's achieved, I am absolutely not surprised. That's the kind of player he was when we saw him early but what he's transformed into, I think from a fitness point of view and the way he's worked on his skills is tremendous," Gambhir said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuzvendra-chahal-to-open-with-jos-buttler-for-rr-in-ipl-2022-england-star-reacts-to-hilarious-tweet-watch-463681">Chahal to open with Jos Buttler for RR in IPL 2022? England star reacts to hilarious tweet - WATCH</a>

Gambhir and Kohli shared the dressing for Team India for a number of years and were part of the 2011 ICC ODI World Cup-winning side under MS Dhoni.

Former India opener and ex-captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Gautam Gambhir recently opened up on his heated on-field spat with Virat Kohli during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2013.

Former India opener and ex-captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Gautam Gambhir recently opened up on his heated on-field spat with Virat Kohli during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2013. Gambhir and Kohli were involved in a heated argument on the field after the latter was dismissed by pacer Laxmipathy Balaji in the game. Gambhir, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles as captain, is one of the most successful captains in the history of the league. The former India opener had lost his cool on Kohli during a game between Royal Challengers Bangalore and KKR in IPL 2013. While Gambhir had already led KKR to their maiden title in the previous year, it was Kohli's first year as the captain of RCB. During the game, Kohli was seen losing his temper after getting dismissed by Balaji. He later went on to have a heated spat with Gambhir. Opening up on the incident, Gambhir said he was absolutely fine with what unfolded on the day as he likes people who are competitive. Both Gambhir was fierce competitor during his playing days, Kohli's aggressive style of playing his game is a secret to none. "That's OK, I am absolutely fine with it and I expect him to be like that. I am like that. I like that contest, I like people who are competitive. MS Dhoni is a competitor in his own way, Virat is a competitor in his own way," Gambhir said when asked about the incident on popular sports presenter Jatin Sapru's YouTube channel. "Sometimes when you are leading the side, you have to do it even if you don't want to do it because you want your team to play the way you want. As a leader, sometimes you are not thinking about personal relationships with the other guy [but] just because you are leading a team, you have to do it," he explained further. × Also Read: Have lot of respect for MS Dhoni, will be the first person standing next to him in need: Gautam Gambhir Gambhir clarified that there was nothing personal between him and Kohli and that there have never been anything personal between the duo. He also hailed the former Indian captain for the way he has transformed into one of the best batters in the world from a young prodigy during his initial days in international cricket. Gambhir said he is not at all surprised by what Kohli has managed to achieve in his career so far and lauded the star batter for working on his fitness and game to become the world-beater that he is today. "That's why there was nothing personal [then] and there never will be personal against Virat Kohli. And I say it again and again that what he's achieved, I am absolutely not surprised. That's the kind of player he was when we saw him early but what he's transformed into, I think from a fitness point of view and the way he's worked on his skills is tremendous," Gambhir said. Also Read: Chahal to open with Jos Buttler for RR in IPL 2022? England star reacts to hilarious tweet - WATCH Gambhir and Kohli shared the dressing for Team India for a number of years and were part of the 2011 ICC ODI World Cup-winning side under MS Dhoni.

'Expected him to be like that': Gautam Gambhir opens up on his on-field spat with Virat Kohli in IPL 2013

From Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli to AB de Villiers - Superstar batters with most IPL hundreds

The ardent fans of Virat Kohli have been patiently waiting for the superstar cricketer's 71st international ton. Kohli's last three-figure knock at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he gave up Test and T20I captaincy whereas he was sacked as the ODI skipper for Rohit Sharma to take charge of Team India as full-time captain.

In the IPL, Kohli's last century came during the 2019 edition. While he has been among runs in the last two seasons, his strike-rate has gone down. In IPL 2021, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter amassed 405 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 119.46. In the previous season, he struck at 121.35. After giving up on RCB captaincy with the end of the last year's edition, his Bengaluru teammate and Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell feels Kohli will be at his usual best in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition with no additional pressure on him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-cricketing-superstars-with-most-instagram-followers-460635">From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers</a>

Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Maxwell said, "He knows he's handing the captaincy over, which I think is potentially a big burden for him. It might have been something that's been weighing him down for a while and now that he's been able to release it, it might be dangerous news for opposition teams."

"It is amazing for him to be relaxed a bit and actually enjoy the next few years of his career without any of that sort of external pressure. I think playing against him in earlier days, he was a fiery competitor, getting in your face. He's always trying to impose himself on the game. Impose himself on the opposition," he further opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-to-be-a-trail-run-for-star-team-india-bowler-for-t20-world-cup-consideration-report-463388">IPL 2022 to be a trial run for star Team India bowler for T20 World Cup consideration: Report</a>

"Something I've noticed more from him this year is he's been really measured with his emotions. He's actually been really measured with his decision-making. He's certainly really surprised me and probably how close we've both gotten to each other as well this year. Being able to talk about the game in a calm manner," Maxwell added.

Faf du Plessis-led RCB will open their campaign in the upcoming IPL 2022 edition against Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 27 in match 3, at&nbsp;Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai. Will Kohli go bonkers with the bat this season? Only time will tell..

The ardent fans of Virat Kohli have been patiently waiting for the superstar cricketer's 71st international ton. Kohli's last three-figure knock at the international level came in late 2019.

The ardent fans of Virat Kohli have been patiently waiting for the superstar cricketer's 71st international ton. Kohli's last three-figure knock at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he gave up Test and T20I captaincy whereas he was sacked as the ODI skipper for Rohit Sharma to take charge of Team India as full-time captain. In the IPL, Kohli's last century came during the 2019 edition. While he has been among runs in the last two seasons, his strike-rate has gone down. In IPL 2021, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter amassed 405 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 119.46. In the previous season, he struck at 121.35. After giving up on RCB captaincy with the end of the last year's edition, his Bengaluru teammate and Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell feels Kohli will be at his usual best in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition with no additional pressure on him. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Maxwell said, "He knows he's handing the captaincy over, which I think is potentially a big burden for him. It might have been something that's been weighing him down for a while and now that he's been able to release it, it might be dangerous news for opposition teams." "It is amazing for him to be relaxed a bit and actually enjoy the next few years of his career without any of that sort of external pressure. I think playing against him in earlier days, he was a fiery competitor, getting in your face. He's always trying to impose himself on the game. Impose himself on the opposition," he further opined. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 to be a trial run for star Team India bowler for T20 World Cup consideration: Report "Something I've noticed more from him this year is he's been really measured with his emotions. He's actually been really measured with his decision-making. He's certainly really surprised me and probably how close we've both gotten to each other as well this year. Being able to talk about the game in a calm manner," Maxwell added. Faf du Plessis-led RCB will open their campaign in the upcoming IPL 2022 edition against Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 27 in match 3, at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai. Will Kohli go bonkers with the bat this season? Only time will tell..

'Might be dangerous news for oppositions': RCB star Maxwell explains why Kohli can be lethal in IPL 2022

Joe Root has been England's run-machine in Tests for quite some time. While he was in superb form in 2021, he has brought his flawless batting form into the new year as well. While the England Test captain ended with the first Test versus hosts West Indies with a gritty 109, in the drawn series opener at&nbsp;Antigua, Root slammed a phenomenal 153 in the ongoing second Test versus Kraigg Brathwaite-led Windies.&nbsp;

While Root went to stumps on the opening day at 119, on Wednesday (March 16) he eventually fell for 153 -- studded with 14 fours. After his knock, the 31-year-old set an all-time English record. Root went past his predecessor Alastair Cook (11) for the most 150+ scores by an English player (12) in the history of Test cricket. In addition, Root&nbsp;has consolidated his tally at the top with the most 150-plus scores among active players. He has, thus, extended his lead over India's former skipper Virat Kohli (10) with most scores in excess of 150 in whites (12) among active batters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-pakistans-riveting-draw-vs-australia-463336">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Pakistan's riveting draw vs Australia</a>

It is to be noted that Root has 7 150-plus scores in the purest format as a Test captain. In the all-time list, only Kohli (9) and Sir Don Bradman (8) are above the current English captain (who is joint third-most along with Michael Clarke, Mahela Jayawardene, Brian Lara and Graeme Smith).

For the unversed, Root's exceptional form sees him as the top run-getter in the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). He has so far amassed 1,161 runs in 11 matches with five hundreds and four half-centuries. Babar Azam occupies the second spot, being 601&nbsp;runs behind Root (560).

Talking about the second Test between England and West Indies, at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, the hosts are 71-1 at stumps on Day 2 after Root and Ben Stokes' centuries propelled the visitors to&nbsp;507-9 decl. (150.5 overs).

Joe Root has been England's run-machine in Tests for quite some time. While he was in superb form in 2021, he has brought his flawless batting form into the new year as well.

Joe Root has been England's run-machine in Tests for quite some time. While he was in superb form in 2021, he has brought his flawless batting form into the new year as well. While the England Test captain ended with the first Test versus hosts West Indies with a gritty 109, in the drawn series opener at Antigua, Root slammed a phenomenal 153 in the ongoing second Test versus Kraigg Brathwaite-led Windies. While Root went to stumps on the opening day at 119, on Wednesday (March 16) he eventually fell for 153 -- studded with 14 fours. After his knock, the 31-year-old set an all-time English record. Root went past his predecessor Alastair Cook (11) for the most 150+ scores by an English player (12) in the history of Test cricket. In addition, Root has consolidated his tally at the top with the most 150-plus scores among active players. He has, thus, extended his lead over India's former skipper Virat Kohli (10) with most scores in excess of 150 in whites (12) among active batters. ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Pakistan's riveting draw vs Australia It is to be noted that Root has 7 150-plus scores in the purest format as a Test captain. In the all-time list, only Kohli (9) and Sir Don Bradman (8) are above the current English captain (who is joint third-most along with Michael Clarke, Mahela Jayawardene, Brian Lara and Graeme Smith). For the unversed, Root's exceptional form sees him as the top run-getter in the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). He has so far amassed 1,161 runs in 11 matches with five hundreds and four half-centuries. Babar Azam occupies the second spot, being 601 runs behind Root (560). Talking about the second Test between England and West Indies, at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, the hosts are 71-1 at stumps on Day 2 after Root and Ben Stokes' centuries propelled the visitors to 507-9 decl. (150.5 overs).

Eng vs WI, 2nd Test: Root sets all-time English record with phenomenal 153, nears Kohli in elite list

Babar Azam's 196 stood tall as Pakistan fought hard to achieve a draw in the second and penultimate Test versus Australia at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). After conceding a whopping 408-run lead in the first innings, hosts Pakistan had a herculean task to weather the storm when they came out to bat in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target set up by Pat Cummins &amp; Co.

On Day 4, Pakistan went to stumps at 192-2, with skipper Babar surpassing the triple-figure mark. On the final day, he led the charge once again -- despite losing opener&nbsp;Abdullah Shafique (96) -- with wicketkeeper-batsman and vice-captain Mohammad Rizwan (104 not out) as the home side managed to reach 443-7 when the match ended in a riveting draw.

Following Babar's stellar innings, where he became the first Pakistani batter to face&nbsp;400-plus deliveries in the fourth innings, former England captain Michael Vaughan lavished huge praise on the right-hander. Vaughan, who remains vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game, took to his official Twitter handle and lauded Babar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-led-pakistan-become-second-team-to-achieve-historic-feat-after-drawn-test-vs-australia-462960">Babar Azam-led Pakistan become second team to achieve historic feat after drawn Test vs Australia</a>

“Without question I think @babarazam258 is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. #PAKvAUS ..”, Vaughan tweeted.

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Without question I think <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam258</a> is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAUS</a> ..
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1504088162276155394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Thus, this surely is a big compliment for Babar, who as per Vaughan is currently above the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, etc. in the modern era.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-scripts-history-achieves-elite-feat-during-marathon-196-run-knock-in-2nd-test-vs-australia-462928">Babar Azam scripts history, achieves elite feat during marathon 196-run knock in 2nd Test vs Australia</a>

For the unversed, Babar now also has the highest score by&nbsp;a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match following his 196-run knock, studded with 21 fours and a six. He displayed great determination, patience, composure and solid technique to keep the Aussie bowlers at bay and single-handedly lead the show for his side.

The third and final Test will now commence on March 21&nbsp;at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore with the series currently levelled at 0-0.

Babar Azam's 196 stood tall as Pakistan fought hard to achieve a draw in the second and penultimate Test versus Australia at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16).

Babar Azam's 196 stood tall as Pakistan fought hard to achieve a draw in the second and penultimate Test versus Australia at the National Stadium, Karachi on Wednesday (March 16). After conceding a whopping 408-run lead in the first innings, hosts Pakistan had a herculean task to weather the storm when they came out to bat in pursuit of a mammoth 506-run target set up by Pat Cummins & Co. On Day 4, Pakistan went to stumps at 192-2, with skipper Babar surpassing the triple-figure mark. On the final day, he led the charge once again -- despite losing opener Abdullah Shafique (96) -- with wicketkeeper-batsman and vice-captain Mohammad Rizwan (104 not out) as the home side managed to reach 443-7 when the match ended in a riveting draw. Following Babar's stellar innings, where he became the first Pakistani batter to face 400-plus deliveries in the fourth innings, former England captain Michael Vaughan lavished huge praise on the right-hander. Vaughan, who remains vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game, took to his official Twitter handle and lauded Babar. ALSO READ | Babar Azam-led Pakistan become second team to achieve historic feat after drawn Test vs Australia “Without question I think @babarazam258 is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. #PAKvAUS ..”, Vaughan tweeted. Without question I think @babarazam258 is the best all round Batter in the World right now .. Brilliant across all the formats .. #PAKvAUS .. — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 16, 2022 × Thus, this surely is a big compliment for Babar, who as per Vaughan is currently above the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, etc. in the modern era. ALSO READ | Babar Azam scripts history, achieves elite feat during marathon 196-run knock in 2nd Test vs Australia For the unversed, Babar now also has the highest score by a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match following his 196-run knock, studded with 21 fours and a six. He displayed great determination, patience, composure and solid technique to keep the Aussie bowlers at bay and single-handedly lead the show for his side. The third and final Test will now commence on March 21 at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore with the series currently levelled at 0-0.

Best all-round batter in the world: Vaughan lavishes huge praise on Pakistan captain after 2nd Test vs AUS

Fresh from his maiden Test five-wicket haul at home, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spots to fourth but struggling star batter Virat Kohli slipped to ninth in the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday.

Bumrah, who returned with eight wickets in the Day/Night&nbsp;second Test against Sri Lanka&nbsp;in Bengaluru, climbed past Shaheen Afridi, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, James Anderson, Neil Wagner and Josh Hazlewood in the Test rankings for bowlers.

Former captain Kohli, who continued his struggle with the bat and could not convert his starts, dropped four places, but managed to remain inside the top-10 just ahead of Rishabh Pant who remained static at 10th.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wiveng-when-and-where-to-watch-west-indies-vs-england-2nd-test-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-462823">WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Kohli scored 45 in the opening Test in Mohali, while in the second Test he had scores of 23 and 13. He is yet to score a century since his 136 against Bangladesh in November 2019.

India skipper Rohit Sharma, however, held on to his sixth position to be the best-placed Indian in the batting charts.

The in-form Shreyas Iyer was rewarded for his match-winning 92 and 67 against Sri Lanka as he took a giant leap, advancing 40 spots to be on 37th position in the batting chart.

Sri Lanka Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne jumped up to a career-best No 3 after his fighting 107 in the second innings in Bangalore.

In the all-rounders' table, Ravindra Jadeja was displaced from the No.1 position as West Indies' Jason Holder reclaimed the top spot.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-scripts-history-becomes-first-bowler-to-complete-100-wickets-in-world-test-championship-462657">R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship</a>

Jadeja had risen to No 1 after his 175 not out and nine wickets in the Mohali Test earlier this month.

Ravichandran Ashwin, Shakib Al Hasan and Ben Stokes rounded off the top five in the all-rounders' list.

In the bowlers' ranking, Mohammed Shami climbed up a spot to displace fellow countryman Ravindra Jadeja to 17th. Pat Cummins, Ashwin and Kagiso Rabada have retained the top three spots among the bowlers.

Fresh from his maiden Test five-wicket haul at home, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spots to fourth but struggling star batter Virat Kohli slipped to ninth in the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday.

Fresh from his maiden Test five-wicket haul at home, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spots to fourth but struggling star batter Virat Kohli slipped to ninth in the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday. Bumrah, who returned with eight wickets in the Day/Night second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, climbed past Shaheen Afridi, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, James Anderson, Neil Wagner and Josh Hazlewood in the Test rankings for bowlers. Former captain Kohli, who continued his struggle with the bat and could not convert his starts, dropped four places, but managed to remain inside the top-10 just ahead of Rishabh Pant who remained static at 10th. ALSO READ: WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details Kohli scored 45 in the opening Test in Mohali, while in the second Test he had scores of 23 and 13. He is yet to score a century since his 136 against Bangladesh in November 2019. India skipper Rohit Sharma, however, held on to his sixth position to be the best-placed Indian in the batting charts. The in-form Shreyas Iyer was rewarded for his match-winning 92 and 67 against Sri Lanka as he took a giant leap, advancing 40 spots to be on 37th position in the batting chart. Sri Lanka Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne jumped up to a career-best No 3 after his fighting 107 in the second innings in Bangalore. In the all-rounders' table, Ravindra Jadeja was displaced from the No.1 position as West Indies' Jason Holder reclaimed the top spot. ALSO READ: R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship Jadeja had risen to No 1 after his 175 not out and nine wickets in the Mohali Test earlier this month. Ravichandran Ashwin, Shakib Al Hasan and Ben Stokes rounded off the top five in the all-rounders' list. In the bowlers' ranking, Mohammed Shami climbed up a spot to displace fellow countryman Ravindra Jadeja to 17th. Pat Cummins, Ashwin and Kagiso Rabada have retained the top three spots among the bowlers.

ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.&nbsp;

Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-indias-2-0-clean-sweep-over-sri-lanka-462550">Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka</a>

"Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said&nbsp;Rajumkar&nbsp;to the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast.

"He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-238-runs-to-register-2-0-clean-sweep-record-15th-striaght-test-series-win-at-home-462203">India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home</a>

At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India.

With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.&nbsp;
</section>

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level. Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka "Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said Rajumkar to the Khelneeti podcast. "He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar. ALSO READ | India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India. With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.

Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics

India head coach Rahul Dravid and senior batter Vira Kohli won the hearts of cricket fans with their amazing gesture for Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal. The duo was spotted visiting the Sri Lankan dressing room on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka to congratulate Lakmal on his retirement.

The Sri Lankan pacer had announced his retirement from international cricket ahead of the start of Sri Lanka's tour of India. The ongoing pink-ball Test match in Bengaluru is his last international match for his country. Dravid and Kohli both visited the Sri Lankan dressing room after India's declared their second innings on Day 2 to congratulate&nbsp;Lakmal.

BCCI shared the video of Kohli and Dravid's gesture for Lakmal which was appreciated by many on social media.

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Head Coach Rahul Dravid and former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> congratulate Suranga Lakmal as he is all set to bid adieu to international cricket.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vroo0mlQLB">pic.twitter.com/Vroo0mlQLB</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1503037410502152192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Lakmal managed only one wicket in his last Test match for Sri Lanka as he managed to get rid of all-rounder Axar Patel during India's first innings of the pink-ball game. The Sri Lankan pacer went wicket-less in India's second innings. He has played 69 Tests, 86 ODIs and 11 T20Is in his career, picking up 170, 109 and 8 wickets in the three formats respectively.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-test-average-slips-below-50-for-first-time-since-2017-after-poor-show-against-sri-lanka-461947">&nbsp;Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka</a>

Talking about the second Test, India rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant (50) and Shreyas Iyer (67) to post 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings and hand the visitors a target of 447 runs to win the game.&nbsp;Indian bowlers then managed to reduce Sri Lanka to 28/1 in 7 overs at stumps on Day 2.

Indian bowlers will be looking to wrap up Sri Lanka's second innings on Day 3 of the Test match and seal a comfortable win for the hosts. India will clean sweep the series 2-0 if they manage to win the Bengaluru Test.

&nbsp;

India head coach Rahul Dravid and senior batter Vira Kohli won the hearts of cricket fans with their amazing gesture for Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal. The duo was spotted visiting the Sri Lankan dressing room on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka to congratulate Lakmal on his retirement.

India head coach Rahul Dravid and senior batter Vira Kohli won the hearts of cricket fans with their amazing gesture for Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal. The duo was spotted visiting the Sri Lankan dressing room on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka to congratulate Lakmal on his retirement. The Sri Lankan pacer had announced his retirement from international cricket ahead of the start of Sri Lanka's tour of India. The ongoing pink-ball Test match in Bengaluru is his last international match for his country. Dravid and Kohli both visited the Sri Lankan dressing room after India's declared their second innings on Day 2 to congratulate Lakmal. BCCI shared the video of Kohli and Dravid's gesture for Lakmal which was appreciated by many on social media. Head Coach Rahul Dravid and former #TeamIndia Captain @imVkohli congratulate Suranga Lakmal as he is all set to bid adieu to international cricket.@Paytm #INDvSL pic.twitter.com/Vroo0mlQLB — BCCI (@BCCI) March 13, 2022 × Lakmal managed only one wicket in his last Test match for Sri Lanka as he managed to get rid of all-rounder Axar Patel during India's first innings of the pink-ball game. The Sri Lankan pacer went wicket-less in India's second innings. He has played 69 Tests, 86 ODIs and 11 T20Is in his career, picking up 170, 109 and 8 wickets in the three formats respectively. Also Read: Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka Talking about the second Test, India rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant (50) and Shreyas Iyer (67) to post 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings and hand the visitors a target of 447 runs to win the game. Indian bowlers then managed to reduce Sri Lanka to 28/1 in 7 overs at stumps on Day 2. Indian bowlers will be looking to wrap up Sri Lanka's second innings on Day 3 of the Test match and seal a comfortable win for the hosts. India will clean sweep the series 2-0 if they manage to win the Bengaluru Test.

WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was dismissed on 13 off 16 balls by left-arm spinner Praveen Jayawickrama on Day 2 of the second Test between the two sides.

It was once again a delivery that kept low which got the better of Kohli as the Bengaluru crowd went silent after the batting maestro's dismissal. While the&nbsp;wait for his 71st international century got extended yet again, Kohli's poor show meant he is no more the only batter in the world to average over fifty across all three formats of the game.

On a pitch that has uneven bounce and has assisted the bowlers, Kohli made a cautious start in India's second innings on Sunday. However, a lowly delivery from Jayawickrama sent him back. Kohli scored 23 and 13 in the two innings respectively as his average in the longest format dropped to 49.95.

The former India skipper needed at least 43 runs across two innings in the second Test to ensure his average remained above 50. However, he failed to do so much to the disappointment of the crowd in Bengaluru. Kohli at present has&nbsp;8043 runs in 101 Tests at an average of 49.95 for India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-breaks-kapil-devs-40-year-old-record-with-sensational-fifty-in-pin-ball-test-against-sri-lanka-461919">Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka</a>

Kohli has been enduring a lean patch in Test cricket over the last couple of years. He has averaged only 28.03 in 17 Test matches from the start of 2020. His last hundred in the longest format came against Bangladesh in the pink-ball Test in Kolkata in November 2019.

Despite Kohli's underwhelming show with the bat, India are in a strong position in the Test match as they rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer to post 303/9 (declared) on the board. India have handed Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs and are favourites to win the game.

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was dismissed on 13 off 16 balls by left-arm spinner Praveen Jayawickrama on Day 2 of the second Test between the two sides. It was once again a delivery that kept low which got the better of Kohli as the Bengaluru crowd went silent after the batting maestro's dismissal. While the wait for his 71st international century got extended yet again, Kohli's poor show meant he is no more the only batter in the world to average over fifty across all three formats of the game. On a pitch that has uneven bounce and has assisted the bowlers, Kohli made a cautious start in India's second innings on Sunday. However, a lowly delivery from Jayawickrama sent him back. Kohli scored 23 and 13 in the two innings respectively as his average in the longest format dropped to 49.95. The former India skipper needed at least 43 runs across two innings in the second Test to ensure his average remained above 50. However, he failed to do so much to the disappointment of the crowd in Bengaluru. Kohli at present has 8043 runs in 101 Tests at an average of 49.95 for India. Also Read: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka Kohli has been enduring a lean patch in Test cricket over the last couple of years. He has averaged only 28.03 in 17 Test matches from the start of 2020. His last hundred in the longest format came against Bangladesh in the pink-ball Test in Kolkata in November 2019. Despite Kohli's underwhelming show with the bat, India are in a strong position in the Test match as they rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer to post 303/9 (declared) on the board. India have handed Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs and are favourites to win the game.

Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was once again dismissed by a spinner as his struggles against spin continued in the second Test.

India and Sri Lanka locked horns in the second and final Test of the two-match series in Bengaluru on Saturday. India won the toss and opted to bat first in the pink-ball game and the hosts got off to a poor start as they lost their openers Mayank Agarwal (4) and Rohit Sharma (15) cheaply.&nbsp;

Kohli, who came out to bat at number 4, posted a 47-run stand for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (31) before the latter was dismissed in the 27th over to leave India reeling on 76/3. Kohli was cautious in his approach and was looking to play a big knock but ended up getting trapped lbw by De Silva on 23 off 48 balls.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-bad-patch-has-gone-for-too-long-ex-pakistan-captain-backs-kohli-to-end-his-century-drought-soon-461571">'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon</a>

The former Indian skipper had no answer to De Silva's excellent delivery which was almost unplayable as it kept low after hitting the ground. Kohli was left in disbelief after being stunned by the spinner and his reaction soon went viral on social media.

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/are-you-in-jail-indian-fans-troll-pcb-as-marnus-labuschagne-shares-pic-of-his-daal-and-roti-meal-461639">'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal</a>

India's top-order crumbled on Day 1 as the spin assisted spinners. Shreyas Iyer was the lone fighter for India as he notched up his half-century to take the team's total beyond the 250-run mark after the likes of Kohli (23), Rohit (15), Agarwal (4) and Rishabh Pant (39) failed to make an impact.

Iyer missed out on a deserved hundred by just 8 runs as he notched up a brilliant knock of 92 runs to help India post 252 runs on the board in their first innings. The onus will now be on the Indian bowlers to bundle out Sri Lanka cheaply in their first innings to keep the hosts in the game.

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was once again dismissed by a spinner as his struggles against spin continued in the second Test. India and Sri Lanka locked horns in the second and final Test of the two-match series in Bengaluru on Saturday. India won the toss and opted to bat first in the pink-ball game and the hosts got off to a poor start as they lost their openers Mayank Agarwal (4) and Rohit Sharma (15) cheaply. Kohli, who came out to bat at number 4, posted a 47-run stand for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (31) before the latter was dismissed in the 27th over to leave India reeling on 76/3. Kohli was cautious in his approach and was looking to play a big knock but ended up getting trapped lbw by De Silva on 23 off 48 balls. Also Read: 'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon The former Indian skipper had no answer to De Silva's excellent delivery which was almost unplayable as it kept low after hitting the ground. Kohli was left in disbelief after being stunned by the spinner and his reaction soon went viral on social media. Watch video: pic.twitter.com/KGdnKaijZx — Rishobpuant (@rishobpuant) March 12, 2022 × Also Read: 'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal India's top-order crumbled on Day 1 as the spin assisted spinners. Shreyas Iyer was the lone fighter for India as he notched up his half-century to take the team's total beyond the 250-run mark after the likes of Kohli (23), Rohit (15), Agarwal (4) and Rishabh Pant (39) failed to make an impact. Iyer missed out on a deserved hundred by just 8 runs as he notched up a brilliant knock of 92 runs to help India post 252 runs on the board in their first innings. The onus will now be on the Indian bowlers to bundle out Sri Lanka cheaply in their first innings to keep the hosts in the game.

WATCH: Virat Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 13) confirmed the appointment of Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Du Plessis will replace Virat Kohli, who had stepped down from captaincy following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. While there were speculations Kohli could return to captaincy or Glenn Maxwell can take charge, RCB's announcement put to rest all such rumours.

Du Plessis was signed by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month and ever since then, he had become one of the frontrunners to become the new RCB skipper. However, the likes of Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who have led IPL teams in the past, were also in contention to replace Kohli as the new captain.

RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson explained why the franchise decided to go with Du Plessis as captain over the likes of Maxwell and Karthik. When asked if the franchise had bid for Du Plessis at the mega auction keeping the captaincy decision in mind, Hesson admitted the franchise saw the former South Africa skipper as part of their leadership group.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-replaces-virat-kohli-as-rcb-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-461649">Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022</a>

"It was a little bit of both. We obviously had Maxwell and Virat to have huge captaincy experience that we retained. We felt within our leadership group we wanted to expand on that and also Harshal Patel as well. Who we wanted to buy back. So it was more about growing our leadership group and carrying on from that," said Hesson.

"Obviously, Faf was right up the top of that list in terms of whom we were wanting to get. It was little bit of both. I know how well respected he is. I know tactically sound he is. We have the likes of Virat, Maxi (Maxwell), DK who is new to the group," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-to-pass-on-baton-says-virat-kohli-on-faf-du-plessis-appointment-as-rcb-captain-461728">Couldn't be happier to pass on baton, says Virat Kohli on Faf du Plessis' appointment as RCB captain</a>

With many of the opinion that having an overseas captain might act as a limitation going forward as only four overseas players are allowed in the playing XI, Hesson said he had no doubts that Du Plessis will play all games for the franchise. Hesson also called Du Plessis the most suitable candidate for the captaincy role.

"When you look to decide who's the most suitable candidate for the role, you don't necessarily decide whether they're an Indian player or an overseas player. Sure the seven Indians and there's four overseas -- we know the maths," said Hesson.

"The reality is that Faf is good enough to play every single game anyway. So that's not a question. Therefore you just look at who's the guy you gonna work with the leaders in the group and get the best out of the younger guys, build relationships and help develop that RCB culture that we want. We just want the best candidate for the job. And there's no doubt in our mind that Faf is the guy for that," he added.

RCB, who are yet to win their maiden IPL title, will hope for a change in fortunes this season after appointing Du Plessis as the new leader of the side.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 13) confirmed the appointment of Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 13) confirmed the appointment of Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Du Plessis will replace Virat Kohli, who had stepped down from captaincy following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. While there were speculations Kohli could return to captaincy or Glenn Maxwell can take charge, RCB's announcement put to rest all such rumours. Du Plessis was signed by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month and ever since then, he had become one of the frontrunners to become the new RCB skipper. However, the likes of Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who have led IPL teams in the past, were also in contention to replace Kohli as the new captain. RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson explained why the franchise decided to go with Du Plessis as captain over the likes of Maxwell and Karthik. When asked if the franchise had bid for Du Plessis at the mega auction keeping the captaincy decision in mind, Hesson admitted the franchise saw the former South Africa skipper as part of their leadership group. Also Read: Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022 "It was a little bit of both. We obviously had Maxwell and Virat to have huge captaincy experience that we retained. We felt within our leadership group we wanted to expand on that and also Harshal Patel as well. Who we wanted to buy back. So it was more about growing our leadership group and carrying on from that," said Hesson. "Obviously, Faf was right up the top of that list in terms of whom we were wanting to get. It was little bit of both. I know how well respected he is. I know tactically sound he is. We have the likes of Virat, Maxi (Maxwell), DK who is new to the group," he added. Also Read: Couldn't be happier to pass on baton, says Virat Kohli on Faf du Plessis' appointment as RCB captain With many of the opinion that having an overseas captain might act as a limitation going forward as only four overseas players are allowed in the playing XI, Hesson said he had no doubts that Du Plessis will play all games for the franchise. Hesson also called Du Plessis the most suitable candidate for the captaincy role. "When you look to decide who's the most suitable candidate for the role, you don't necessarily decide whether they're an Indian player or an overseas player. Sure the seven Indians and there's four overseas -- we know the maths," said Hesson. "The reality is that Faf is good enough to play every single game anyway. So that's not a question. Therefore you just look at who's the guy you gonna work with the leaders in the group and get the best out of the younger guys, build relationships and help develop that RCB culture that we want. We just want the best candidate for the job. And there's no doubt in our mind that Faf is the guy for that," he added. RCB, who are yet to win their maiden IPL title, will hope for a change in fortunes this season after appointing Du Plessis as the new leader of the side.

Mike Hesson explains why RCB picked Faf du Plessis over Maxwell and Karthik to lead the side in IPL 2022

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. On a track that was assisting the bowlers, Iyer emerged as the top scorer for India with a brilliant knock of 92 runs off just 98 balls.

After opting to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka, India's top order struggled against the pink ball as the uneven bounce on the pitch made it trickier for them. The likes of skipper Rohit Sharma (15), Mayank Agarwal (4), Virat Kohli (23) and Hanuma Vihari (31) all failed to make an impact.

India were left reeling at 86/4 in the 28th over when Iyer arrived in the middle and went on to play a gritty knock battling the tough conditions. He missed out on his century by just 8 runs but managed to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on the board in their first innings.

With the help of his 92-run-knock, Iyer also joined the likes of Kohli and Rohit in an elite list as he became only the third Indian player to score a half-century in a pink-ball Test match for India. Kohli remains the only player with a century in a pink-ball game with Iyer now India's second-highest scorer in a day-night Test behind the former skipper.

Highest score by Indian players in pink-ball Tests:

136 - Virat Kohli vs Bangladesh 2019 
92 - Shreyas Iyer vs Sri Lanka 2022 
74 - Virat Kohli vs Australia 2020 
66 -&nbsp;Rohit Sharma vs England 2021

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-test-dn-bowlers-put-hosts-in-strong-position-as-visitors-tumble-at-866-on-day-1-461738">India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1</a>

Kohli's last century in international cricket was in the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in November 2019. The former India skipper has since struggled to reach the three-figure mark across formats. On Saturday, Kohli was dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner&nbsp;Dhananjaya de Silva on 23 in India's first innings of the pink-ball Test.

Riding on Iyer's 92 and Rishabh Pant's crucial knock of 39 runs off just 26 balls, India managed to cross the 250-run mark in their first innings on Saturday before the hosts wreaked havoc with the ball against Sri Lanka in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-in-disbelief-as-dhananjaya-de-silva-stuns-indian-star-with-unplayable-delivery-in-2nd-test-461675">WATCH: Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test</a>

The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals in their first innings as they were reduced to 86/6 at stumps on Day 2, trailing India's first-innings total by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. On a track that was assisting the bowlers, Iyer emerged as the top scorer for India with a brilliant knock of 92 runs off just 98 balls. After opting to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka, India's top order struggled against the pink ball as the uneven bounce on the pitch made it trickier for them. The likes of skipper Rohit Sharma (15), Mayank Agarwal (4), Virat Kohli (23) and Hanuma Vihari (31) all failed to make an impact. India were left reeling at 86/4 in the 28th over when Iyer arrived in the middle and went on to play a gritty knock battling the tough conditions. He missed out on his century by just 8 runs but managed to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on the board in their first innings. With the help of his 92-run-knock, Iyer also joined the likes of Kohli and Rohit in an elite list as he became only the third Indian player to score a half-century in a pink-ball Test match for India. Kohli remains the only player with a century in a pink-ball game with Iyer now India's second-highest scorer in a day-night Test behind the former skipper. Highest score by Indian players in pink-ball Tests: 136 - Virat Kohli vs Bangladesh 2019 92 - Shreyas Iyer vs Sri Lanka 2022 74 - Virat Kohli vs Australia 2020 66 - Rohit Sharma vs England 2021 Also Read: India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1 Kohli's last century in international cricket was in the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in November 2019. The former India skipper has since struggled to reach the three-figure mark across formats. On Saturday, Kohli was dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner Dhananjaya de Silva on 23 in India's first innings of the pink-ball Test. Riding on Iyer's 92 and Rishabh Pant's crucial knock of 39 runs off just 26 balls, India managed to cross the 250-run mark in their first innings on Saturday before the hosts wreaked havoc with the ball against Sri Lanka in their first innings. Also Read: WATCH: Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals in their first innings as they were reduced to 86/6 at stumps on Day 2, trailing India's first-innings total by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli is happy and excited to pass on the baton to Faf du Plessis after the former South Africa skipper was named as the new captain of the franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2022.

"First and foremost the most important news is that Faf is going to be the captain of RCB and I couldn't be happier to pass on the baton to a good friend. Someone that I have known well over the years. We have been in touch for many years now and he is one of the few guys I have known apart from cricket and we get along really well. So, absolutely excited for him to lead RCB. To lead this amazing franchise and to play under him," said Kohli on Twitter.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-replaces-virat-kohli-as-rcb-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-461649">Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022</a>

In IPL 2022 mega auction, he was bought by the Bangalore franchise for Rs 7 crore.

The South African has the opportunity to be the first captain to win an IPL trophy for RCB as they have made it to the finals thrice in 2009, 2011 and 2016 editions but have failed to win the title.

"The partnership with Faf is going to be an exciting one for RCB fans along with Maxi (Maxwell) as well and the core group that we retained and also the squad that we put together this year I think is pretty amazing. The team looks balanced and pretty strong and I can't wait to get started and to catch up with Faf and the rest of the boys as well and really looking forward to this season. I am very excited and as I said renewed energy and it is going to be an amazing season to be a part of. Cheers and see you soon," said Kohli.

With the change in leadership, all are waiting for a change of fortunes for RCB.

The South African has scored 2935 runs in the IPL during his time with Chennai Super Kings and Rising Pune Supergiants.

"We are going to start our season pretty soon. Something which I am very excited about. As I said renewed energy. Really looking forward to this season," Kohli added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-share-stump-cam-video-of-ms-dhoni-and-robin-uthappas-batting-session-ahead-of-ipl-2022-watch-461527">CSK share stump cam video of MS Dhoni and Robin Uthappa's batting session ahead of IPL 2022 - WATCH</a>

The right-handed batter had stepped down from the top job after the end of the second phase of IPL 2021.

He had made the announcement a few days after stepping down as the T20I captain.

Under him, RCB struggled in a few seasons and registered 64 wins in 140 matches.

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli is happy and excited to pass on the baton to Faf du Plessis after the former South Africa skipper was named as the new captain of the franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2022.

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli is happy and excited to pass on the baton to Faf du Plessis after the former South Africa skipper was named as the new captain of the franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2022. "First and foremost the most important news is that Faf is going to be the captain of RCB and I couldn't be happier to pass on the baton to a good friend. Someone that I have known well over the years. We have been in touch for many years now and he is one of the few guys I have known apart from cricket and we get along really well. So, absolutely excited for him to lead RCB. To lead this amazing franchise and to play under him," said Kohli on Twitter. ALSO READ: Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022 In IPL 2022 mega auction, he was bought by the Bangalore franchise for Rs 7 crore. The South African has the opportunity to be the first captain to win an IPL trophy for RCB as they have made it to the finals thrice in 2009, 2011 and 2016 editions but have failed to win the title. "The partnership with Faf is going to be an exciting one for RCB fans along with Maxi (Maxwell) as well and the core group that we retained and also the squad that we put together this year I think is pretty amazing. The team looks balanced and pretty strong and I can't wait to get started and to catch up with Faf and the rest of the boys as well and really looking forward to this season. I am very excited and as I said renewed energy and it is going to be an amazing season to be a part of. Cheers and see you soon," said Kohli. With the change in leadership, all are waiting for a change of fortunes for RCB. The South African has scored 2935 runs in the IPL during his time with Chennai Super Kings and Rising Pune Supergiants. "We are going to start our season pretty soon. Something which I am very excited about. As I said renewed energy. Really looking forward to this season," Kohli added. ALSO READ: CSK share stump cam video of MS Dhoni and Robin Uthappa's batting session ahead of IPL 2022 - WATCH The right-handed batter had stepped down from the top job after the end of the second phase of IPL 2021. He had made the announcement a few days after stepping down as the T20I captain. Under him, RCB struggled in a few seasons and registered 64 wins in 140 matches.

Couldn't be happier to pass on baton, says Virat Kohli on Faf du Plessis' appointment as RCB captain

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India. Kohli has not enjoyed the best of form in international cricket over the last couple of years as the&nbsp;wait for his 71st international century has extended over two years.

Kohli scored his last international ton in November 2019 and has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark across formats despite having gotten great starts on several occasions. In his last outing which was also Kohli's 100th Test, the batting maestro looked in fine touch as he got off to a good start. However, Kohli once again failed to get a big knock.

Kohli was dismissed on 45 in his 100th Test as he was cleaned up by Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya. As his century drought continues to extend, Latif has backed Kohli to score a century soon. Latif also spoke about Kohli's struggles and said he needs to get back among the runs soon.

“It is time for him to score runs. The bad patch has gone for too long. He has got a great chance here. People are very concerned over his century, but I think he will be slamming a hundred either in this Test or in the next two-three games,” Latif said in a video on his official YouTube channel.

“He had internal problems and lost his captaincy, went out of form. The opposition also works on his weakness and they are bowling him according to the plan," added the former Pakistan skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-can-touch-virat-ex-india-batting-coach-backs-kohli-to-equal-sachin-tendulkars-world-record-461005">'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record</a>

Further decoding Kohli's struggles with the willow over the last couple of years, Latif said the former India skipper plays with an open stance and has the tendency of going after deliveries outside off which has worked against him. Latif advised Kohli to take help of data analytics to work on his weakness.

“Some players don't believe in data when they're in a good patch. It is time for him to go data analysts. The problem is he has an open stance and chasing deliveries outside off. The opposition has worked on this weakness,” said Latif.

“He has to lessen the number of dot balls he plays. He has to be more aggressive. He has to fasten his initial movement. He is farther from the ball with his open stance. Being late is fine, being very late is dangerous," he added.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India. Kohli has not enjoyed the best of form in international cricket over the last couple of years as the wait for his 71st international century has extended over two years. Kohli scored his last international ton in November 2019 and has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark across formats despite having gotten great starts on several occasions. In his last outing which was also Kohli's 100th Test, the batting maestro looked in fine touch as he got off to a good start. However, Kohli once again failed to get a big knock. Kohli was dismissed on 45 in his 100th Test as he was cleaned up by Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya. As his century drought continues to extend, Latif has backed Kohli to score a century soon. Latif also spoke about Kohli's struggles and said he needs to get back among the runs soon. “It is time for him to score runs. The bad patch has gone for too long. He has got a great chance here. People are very concerned over his century, but I think he will be slamming a hundred either in this Test or in the next two-three games,” Latif said in a video on his official YouTube channel. “He had internal problems and lost his captaincy, went out of form. The opposition also works on his weakness and they are bowling him according to the plan," added the former Pakistan skipper. Also Read: 'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record Further decoding Kohli's struggles with the willow over the last couple of years, Latif said the former India skipper plays with an open stance and has the tendency of going after deliveries outside off which has worked against him. Latif advised Kohli to take help of data analytics to work on his weakness. “Some players don't believe in data when they're in a good patch. It is time for him to go data analysts. The problem is he has an open stance and chasing deliveries outside off. The opposition has worked on this weakness,” said Latif. “He has to lessen the number of dot balls he plays. He has to be more aggressive. He has to fasten his initial movement. He is farther from the ball with his open stance. Being late is fine, being very late is dangerous," he added.

'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon

India will lock horns with the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in the second and final Test on Saturday (March 12). The Rohit Sharma-led hosts are firm favourites to inflict a series whitewash after their flawless performance over the Islanders in the opening Test in Mohali.&nbsp;

Talking about the opening clash, Rohit &amp; Co. didn't put a&nbsp;foot wrong throughout the course of the match and ended up with a comprehensive win, by an innings and 222 runs. Riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 175 not out and his nine-fer, R Ashwin and Mohammed Shami's contributions with the ball (along with the former's first-innings half-century), Rishabh Pant and Hanuma Vihari's fifties to post 574-8 decl. In reply, the Lankans were folded for 174 and 178.

Following a solid performance in Mohali, India will aim to remain unbeaten in pink-ball contests at home. So far, they have won two out of two and are in rollicking form to register another win.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place?

The India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Mohali in India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-test-rohit-sharma-eyes-virat-kohlis-record-r-ashwin-on-cusp-of-achieving-big-feats-461218">Ind vs SL, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma eyes Virat Kohli's record, R Ashwin on cusp of achieving big feats</a>

At what time India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match&nbsp;will kick off at 2:00 PM&nbsp;IST.

How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live on TV?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live streaming?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match&nbsp;will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India will lock horns with the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in the second and final Test on Saturday (March 12). The Rohit Sharma-led hosts are firm favourites to inflict a series whitewash after their flawless performance over the Islanders in the opening Test in Mohali.

India will lock horns with the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in the second and final Test on Saturday (March 12). The Rohit Sharma-led hosts are firm favourites to inflict a series whitewash after their flawless performance over the Islanders in the opening Test in Mohali. Talking about the opening clash, Rohit & Co. didn't put a foot wrong throughout the course of the match and ended up with a comprehensive win, by an innings and 222 runs. Riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 175 not out and his nine-fer, R Ashwin and Mohammed Shami's contributions with the ball (along with the former's first-innings half-century), Rishabh Pant and Hanuma Vihari's fifties to post 574-8 decl. In reply, the Lankans were folded for 174 and 178. Following a solid performance in Mohali, India will aim to remain unbeaten in pink-ball contests at home. So far, they have won two out of two and are in rollicking form to register another win. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place? The India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2022. Where is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Mohali in India. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma eyes Virat Kohli's record, R Ashwin on cusp of achieving big feats At what time India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will kick off at 2:00 PM IST. How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live on TV? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live streaming? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details

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