Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team. Vengsarkar’s comments come after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. <o:p></o:p>

While India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton, New Zealand are taking on England in a two-Test series before the World Test Championship final. Opining on the matter, Vengsarkar said that despite Kohli and Rohit being world-class players, the lack of matches in the build-up to the event could hamper their performance in the WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>

"It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.

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Vengsarkar further said that the two-Test series against England will give a perfect opportunity for the Black Caps to gear up for the much-awaited WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"India is a better team and in great form. The advantage with New Zealand, it is a low profile team, the thing is that they are getting to play two Test matches before the Test match (World Test Championship final)," Vengsarkar said.

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"So it is important... it is a slight advantage to New Zealand... because they have already played two Test matches before they start (of the WTC final), they are acclimatised to the conditions," reckoned Vengsarkar.<o:p></o:p>

"What I feel is that India should have played games, you know matches, at least two-three games before the Test match (WTC), to get acclimatised to the conditions."<o:p></o:p>

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team.

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team. Vengsarkar’s comments come after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. While India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton, New Zealand are taking on England in a two-Test series before the World Test Championship final. Opining on the matter, Vengsarkar said that despite Kohli and Rohit being world-class players, the lack of matches in the build-up to the event could hamper their performance in the WTC final. "Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. "It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final Vengsarkar further said that the two-Test series against England will give a perfect opportunity for the Black Caps to gear up for the much-awaited WTC final. "India is a better team and in great form. The advantage with New Zealand, it is a low profile team, the thing is that they are getting to play two Test matches before the Test match (World Test Championship final)," Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour "So it is important... it is a slight advantage to New Zealand... because they have already played two Test matches before they start (of the WTC final), they are acclimatised to the conditions," reckoned Vengsarkar. "What I feel is that India should have played games, you know matches, at least two-three games before the Test match (WTC), to get acclimatised to the conditions."

Cricket: Lack of match practice may hurt Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in WTC Final, opines Dilip Vengsarkar

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans.<o:p></o:p>

"They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com.

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Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise.<o:p></o:p>

Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. <o:p></o:p>

"Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said.

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New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18. Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans. "They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise. Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. "Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.

Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final

Indian all-rounder Hanuma Vihari is all set to feature in the upcoming World Test Championship final against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. His county stint with Warwickshire has given him a much-needed experience with Dukes ball, as they will be used in the highly-anticipated finals.

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In April, Vihari made a disappointing debut for Warwickshire. He scored a 23-ball duck as he was dismissed by Stuart Broad.&nbsp;

"The overhead conditions play a part as well because when it is sunny, it gets a bit easier to bat, but when it is overcast, the ball moves all day," Vihari told ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

Vihari managed just one half-century in three County matches. He also said that his dismissal off Broad's dismissal pointed out the adjustments India's batsmen would have to make in England.

"I thought it was full enough for me to drive, but again, in England you have to be really certain with your shot selection," Vihari said.

"In India, you can get away with a push, or even if it is not there to drive, you can still get away driving on the up.

"If I were to play that ball a second time, I would try to play as late possible."

"In Australia it was more towards leg stump because there is no lateral movement there, so you can play beside the line of the ball," he added.

"Here, in England, you have to get more in line and judge the off stump more because of the movement of the ball."

Indian all-rounder Hanuma Vihari is all set to feature in the upcoming World Test Championship final against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. His county stint with Warwickshire has given him a much-needed experience with Dukes ball, as they will be used in the highly-anticipated finals.

Indian all-rounder Hanuma Vihari is all set to feature in the upcoming World Test Championship final against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. His county stint with Warwickshire has given him a much-needed experience with Dukes ball, as they will be used in the highly-anticipated finals. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ramiz Raja says Virat Kohli 'knows what he needs to do' in WTC finals In April, Vihari made a disappointing debut for Warwickshire. He scored a 23-ball duck as he was dismissed by Stuart Broad. "The overhead conditions play a part as well because when it is sunny, it gets a bit easier to bat, but when it is overcast, the ball moves all day," Vihari told ESPNcricinfo. Vihari managed just one half-century in three County matches. He also said that his dismissal off Broad's dismissal pointed out the adjustments India's batsmen would have to make in England. "I thought it was full enough for me to drive, but again, in England you have to be really certain with your shot selection," Vihari said. "In India, you can get away with a push, or even if it is not there to drive, you can still get away driving on the up. "If I were to play that ball a second time, I would try to play as late possible." "In Australia it was more towards leg stump because there is no lateral movement there, so you can play beside the line of the ball," he added. "Here, in England, you have to get more in line and judge the off stump more because of the movement of the ball."

Cricket- 'Try to play as late as possible': Hanuma Vihari's advice to Team India on facing Dukes ball

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away. As Team India gears up for a gruelling tour of the UK, wherein they will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five-Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

As India gear up for the intense matches in the longest format of the game, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has given his take on who could be the game-changer for the visitors in the WTC final and series against England. <o:p></o:p>

While the Indian team has quite a few young match-winners at its helm with Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur in the touring team, Vengsarkar said that the role of wicketkeeper-batsman Pant could be game-changing for India.

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“You cannot have a fixed idea about certain things. The wicketkeeper is in a very important position in the team. Besides effecting stumpings and run-outs, if he is batting well, why not? If you have someone like Rishabh Pant, who can change the complexion of the match with his batting also, that is a huge advantage for the Indian team,” Vengsarkar told CricketNext. <o:p></o:p>

“You cannot have a fixed mind and say wicket-keeping comes first. If you are improving as a wicketkeeper, why not? The same thing happened with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He kept improving,” Vengsarkar added.

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While the WTC final is scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton, the five-match Test series against England commence from August 4. India will play a few intra-squad friendly matches in England to get accustomed to the conditions. <o:p></o:p>

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away.

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away. As Team India gears up for a gruelling tour of the UK, wherein they will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five-Test series against England. As India gear up for the intense matches in the longest format of the game, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has given his take on who could be the game-changer for the visitors in the WTC final and series against England. While the Indian team has quite a few young match-winners at its helm with Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur in the touring team, Vengsarkar said that the role of wicketkeeper-batsman Pant could be game-changing for India. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Deeply regret my actions': Ollie Robinson apologises for sexist and racist tweets “You cannot have a fixed idea about certain things. The wicketkeeper is in a very important position in the team. Besides effecting stumpings and run-outs, if he is batting well, why not? If you have someone like Rishabh Pant, who can change the complexion of the match with his batting also, that is a huge advantage for the Indian team,” Vengsarkar told CricketNext. “You cannot have a fixed mind and say wicket-keeping comes first. If you are improving as a wicketkeeper, why not? The same thing happened with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He kept improving,” Vengsarkar added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Joe Root eyes clean-sweep against New Zealand and India before Ashes While the WTC final is scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton, the five-match Test series against England commence from August 4. India will play a few intra-squad friendly matches in England to get accustomed to the conditions.

Cricket: Dilip Vengsarkar picks Team India's game-changers for WTC final vs New Zealand

Indian captain Virat Kohli, ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, said that the summit clash will be challenging for his team but added there is no pressure on him. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand is set to take place in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Opining on the challenges India are set to face in English conditions, Kohli said it is time for the Indian team to enjoy the event as they have put immense hard work on the road to the final. <o:p></o:p>

After the WTC final, India will have a good break for a few weeks before the five-Test series against England, starting August 4. Kohli said the break will give the players time to rest and relax while adding that the period will give time for the team to regroup before an important series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-best-of-three-final-would-be-ideal-ravi-shastri-opines-on-wtc-final-format-389009" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"WTC final will be challenging for the team. But it's time to enjoy what we've has done in past years. There's no pressure on me and there won't be in the future. It's the final, so it's time to enjoy it," Virat Kohli said in the pre-departure presser.<o:p></o:p>

"It's a great opportunity to reflect and relax. Just for the guys to roam around freely, considering that we will have a five-Test series coming. It will give us time to regroup and that is required before an important series like this," said Kohli when asked about the long gap between the WTC final and England series.

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India are set to depart to the UK in the early hours of Thursday. The Indian team will undergo hard quarantine upon landing in the UK but would be allowed to train gradually as RT-PCR tests come negative. Notably, India have already served a 14-day quarantine in India.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Indian captain Virat Kohli, ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, said that the summit clash will be challenging for his team but added there is no pressure on him.

Indian captain Virat Kohli, ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, said that the summit clash will be challenging for his team but added there is no pressure on him. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand is set to take place in Southampton from June 18. Opining on the challenges India are set to face in English conditions, Kohli said it is time for the Indian team to enjoy the event as they have put immense hard work on the road to the final. After the WTC final, India will have a good break for a few weeks before the five-Test series against England, starting August 4. Kohli said the break will give the players time to rest and relax while adding that the period will give time for the team to regroup before an important series. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format "WTC final will be challenging for the team. But it's time to enjoy what we've has done in past years. There's no pressure on me and there won't be in the future. It's the final, so it's time to enjoy it," Virat Kohli said in the pre-departure presser. "It's a great opportunity to reflect and relax. Just for the guys to roam around freely, considering that we will have a five-Test series coming. It will give us time to regroup and that is required before an important series like this," said Kohli when asked about the long gap between the WTC final and England series. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Virat is the most impactful batsman in the world', says Salman Butt India are set to depart to the UK in the early hours of Thursday. The Indian team will undergo hard quarantine upon landing in the UK but would be allowed to train gradually as RT-PCR tests come negative. Notably, India have already served a 14-day quarantine in India.

Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. <o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. <o:p></o:p>

"I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. <o:p></o:p>

"But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." <o:p></o:p>

India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final.

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Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game.<o:p></o:p>

India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. <o:p></o:p>

"See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. <o:p></o:p>

"It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."<o:p></o:p>

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. "I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. "But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: James Anderson equalises Alastair Cook's record of most England Test caps Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game. India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. "See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. "It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."

Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. <o:p></o:p>

According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK.<o:p></o:p>

However, none of the BCCI office-bearers, including board president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah will be present for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22 due to strict quarantine rules in the country. <o:p></o:p>

"Yes, it's good news that players will have their families during the tour of the UK. Ditto for the women's team who can also have their families around. These are times when the mental well-being of players is paramount.<o:p></o:p>

"The BCCI understands that we need our players and support staff to be in a good headspace," a source told PTI.

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Ganguly and Shah weren’t granted exemption from the strict quarantine rules in the UK and they would have to undergo isolation of 10 days. Hence, they will be absent from the ICC WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"As far as I know, the ECB didn't grant permission to them (Ganguly and Shah). Normally, administrators go before the Test match but as per quarantine rules, since they are not playing members, they would have had to undergo hard quarantine of 10 days.<o:p></o:p>

"The team rules wouldn't have been applicable as far as president and secretary is concerned," the official further added.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian men’s and women’s teams will depart for Southampton after touching down in London.

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According to PTI, India women will commence their one-off Test against England in Bristol from June 16 and will have to undergo hard quarantine in Southampton with the men’s team at Hotel Hilton. They will travel to Bristol on completion of their hard quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Indian teams will have to serve three days of hard quarantine and after that they can use the gym and start working on their skills. They have been serving a 14-day quarantine period in India and undergone six RT-PCR tests.<o:p></o:p>

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK.

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK. However, none of the BCCI office-bearers, including board president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah will be present for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22 due to strict quarantine rules in the country. "Yes, it's good news that players will have their families during the tour of the UK. Ditto for the women's team who can also have their families around. These are times when the mental well-being of players is paramount. "The BCCI understands that we need our players and support staff to be in a good headspace," a source told PTI. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mumbai Indian's Trent Boult 'looking forward' to participate in IPL 2021 in UAE Ganguly and Shah weren’t granted exemption from the strict quarantine rules in the UK and they would have to undergo isolation of 10 days. Hence, they will be absent from the ICC WTC final. "As far as I know, the ECB didn't grant permission to them (Ganguly and Shah). Normally, administrators go before the Test match but as per quarantine rules, since they are not playing members, they would have had to undergo hard quarantine of 10 days. "The team rules wouldn't have been applicable as far as president and secretary is concerned," the official further added. The Indian men’s and women’s teams will depart for Southampton after touching down in London. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 According to PTI, India women will commence their one-off Test against England in Bristol from June 16 and will have to undergo hard quarantine in Southampton with the men’s team at Hotel Hilton. They will travel to Bristol on completion of their hard quarantine in Southampton. Indian teams will have to serve three days of hard quarantine and after that they can use the gym and start working on their skills. They have been serving a 14-day quarantine period in India and undergone six RT-PCR tests.

Cricket: Players' families allowed for UK tour, BCCI office-bearers to skip WTC final due to quarantine rules

Mumbai Indians team-mates Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult would be up against each other in the final of ICC World Test Championship, which will be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has weighed his opinion on who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah as the cricketing world gears up for the biggest spectacle in Test cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Opining on the matter, Vaughan picked Boult while citing longevity but said that picking between the two players is a very close task.<o:p></o:p>

When asked who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah, Vaughan played it safe as he said: “Bumrah or Boult… I can’t decide. I’m going to sit on the fence probably for the first time in my life. I would say Boult because he’s been doing it for longer, but Bumrah is incredible and a brilliantly skilled bowler, bowled so well in England a couple of years ago. So I think it’s very, very close,” Vaughan told Spark Sport.

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Earlier, Vaughan had said that Kane Williamson is equally good batsman as Virat Kohli as he added that the Indian skipper is regarded as the best because of his massive popularity on social media.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, New Zealand will gear up for the WTC final with a two-Test series against England and it will give them the best chance to prepare for the summit clash against India while getting accustomed to the conditions.

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Whereas, India will fly out to England on June 2 and will undergo quarantine upon their arrival. However, the Indian team has been high on confidence when it comes to the longest format of the game following their away success against Australia and home series win against England.<o:p></o:p>

Mumbai Indians team-mates Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult would be up against each other in the final of ICC World Test Championship, which will be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18.

Mumbai Indians team-mates Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult would be up against each other in the final of ICC World Test Championship, which will be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has weighed his opinion on who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah as the cricketing world gears up for the biggest spectacle in Test cricket. Opining on the matter, Vaughan picked Boult while citing longevity but said that picking between the two players is a very close task. When asked who is the better bowler between Boult and Bumrah, Vaughan played it safe as he said: “Bumrah or Boult… I can’t decide. I’m going to sit on the fence probably for the first time in my life. I would say Boult because he’s been doing it for longer, but Bumrah is incredible and a brilliantly skilled bowler, bowled so well in England a couple of years ago. So I think it’s very, very close,” Vaughan told Spark Sport. ALSO READ: Cricket: KKR's Pat Cummins to miss remainder of IPL 2021 in UAE - Report Earlier, Vaughan had said that Kane Williamson is equally good batsman as Virat Kohli as he added that the Indian skipper is regarded as the best because of his massive popularity on social media. Meanwhile, New Zealand will gear up for the WTC final with a two-Test series against England and it will give them the best chance to prepare for the summit clash against India while getting accustomed to the conditions. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship final is like World Cup final for me: Neil Wagner Whereas, India will fly out to England on June 2 and will undergo quarantine upon their arrival. However, the Indian team has been high on confidence when it comes to the longest format of the game following their away success against Australia and home series win against England.

Cricket: Jasprit Bumrah vs Trent Boult - Michael Vaughan picks the better pacer ahead of WTC final

With less than a month away from the juggernaut clash between New Zealand and India, several players and cricketing experts have predicted which team will win the inaugural World Test Championship. However, what if the exciting clash ends in a draw or a tie? What if five days are not enough to decide who will be declared champions in the longest format? What if rain interrupts the play and the teams lose valuable time?

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has answered such queries. According to the ICC, if the match ends in a draw or a tie, both teams (India and New Zealand) will be declared joint winners of the coveted championship. ICC also added that a reserve day will be chosen to make up for any lost time during the regular days of the highly-anticipated Finals.&nbsp;

"The playing conditions confirm that a draw or a tie will see both teams crowned as joint winners as well as the allocation of a Reserve Day to make up for any lost time during the regular days of the Final -- scheduled to be played from 18 to 22 June, with 23 June set aside as the Reserve Day. Both of these decisions were made in June 2018, prior to the commencement of the ICC World Test Championship," said a statement from ICC.

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"The Reserve Day has been scheduled to ensure five full days of play, and it will only be used if lost playing time cannot be recovered through the normal provisions of making up lost time each day. There will be no additional day's play if a positive result is not achieved after five full days of play and the match will be declared a draw in such a scenario," the statement added.

The mega clash between Virat and Co and the BlackCaps will be played between June 18 and 22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Both teams have duelled with each other, where New Zealand came out as winners. However, Team India, who fought all odds to book their place in the finals, will be looking to redeem themselves from these losses and settle the score.&nbsp;

With less than a month away from the juggernaut clash between New Zealand and India, several players and cricketing experts have predicted which team will win the inaugural World Test Championship.

With less than a month away from the juggernaut clash between New Zealand and India, several players and cricketing experts have predicted which team will win the inaugural World Test Championship. However, what if the exciting clash ends in a draw or a tie? What if five days are not enough to decide who will be declared champions in the longest format? What if rain interrupts the play and the teams lose valuable time? ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 The International Cricket Council (ICC) has answered such queries. According to the ICC, if the match ends in a draw or a tie, both teams (India and New Zealand) will be declared joint winners of the coveted championship. ICC also added that a reserve day will be chosen to make up for any lost time during the regular days of the highly-anticipated Finals. "The playing conditions confirm that a draw or a tie will see both teams crowned as joint winners as well as the allocation of a Reserve Day to make up for any lost time during the regular days of the Final -- scheduled to be played from 18 to 22 June, with 23 June set aside as the Reserve Day. Both of these decisions were made in June 2018, prior to the commencement of the ICC World Test Championship," said a statement from ICC. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Can see him pushing 600 Test wickets at least': Brad Hogg lauds Ravi Ashwin "The Reserve Day has been scheduled to ensure five full days of play, and it will only be used if lost playing time cannot be recovered through the normal provisions of making up lost time each day. There will be no additional day's play if a positive result is not achieved after five full days of play and the match will be declared a draw in such a scenario," the statement added. The mega clash between Virat and Co and the BlackCaps will be played between June 18 and 22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Both teams have duelled with each other, where New Zealand came out as winners. However, Team India, who fought all odds to book their place in the finals, will be looking to redeem themselves from these losses and settle the score.

Explainer | What will happen if World Test Championship finals ends in a draw or tie

Former World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has weighed his opinion on swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been hailed as one of the most talented batters in today’s cricket. <o:p></o:p>

While Pant took the world by storm as he roared back to form in the Test series against Australia and England, Kapil Dev reckons that the southpaw needs to slow down a bit and find a perfect blend of caution and aggression as India gear up to take on New Zealand in the World Test Championship final before locking horns with England in a five-Test series. <o:p></o:p>

“He looks a very mature cricketer now from the time he came into the side. He seems to have far more time to play his shots and obviously his range of strokes is awesome. But England will be challenging. He must spend more time in the middle and not just look to hit every ball. We used to say the same about Rohit Sharma, who had so many shots, but would step out and get out so many times,” Kapil Dev was quoted as saying by Mid Day.

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As Kapil compared Pant to Rohit Sharma, he suggested the youngster to take some time to settle in before launching his array of strokes. <o:p></o:p>

“Same is with Rishabh now. He is an exciting player and very valuable too. All I would tell him is to take time before unfolding his range of shots. England is different.”<o:p></o:p>

The former Indian skipper further added that he loves Test cricket the most and always looks forward to watching full day’s play.

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“Of course. I am a big fan of Test cricket. I love watching the full day’s play. If work keeps me away from the TV, I catch up with the highlights. I always watch as much as I can. There is nothing like Test cricket.”<o:p></o:p>

India will take on New Zealand in the final of ICC World Test Championship – starting June 18 in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Former World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has weighed his opinion on swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been hailed as one of the most talented batters in today’s cricket.

Former World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has weighed his opinion on swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has been hailed as one of the most talented batters in today’s cricket. While Pant took the world by storm as he roared back to form in the Test series against Australia and England, Kapil Dev reckons that the southpaw needs to slow down a bit and find a perfect blend of caution and aggression as India gear up to take on New Zealand in the World Test Championship final before locking horns with England in a five-Test series. “He looks a very mature cricketer now from the time he came into the side. He seems to have far more time to play his shots and obviously his range of strokes is awesome. But England will be challenging. He must spend more time in the middle and not just look to hit every ball. We used to say the same about Rohit Sharma, who had so many shots, but would step out and get out so many times,” Kapil Dev was quoted as saying by Mid Day. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Expecting it to be tough' - Henry Nicholls warns New Zealand ahead of WTC final vs India As Kapil compared Pant to Rohit Sharma, he suggested the youngster to take some time to settle in before launching his array of strokes. “Same is with Rishabh now. He is an exciting player and very valuable too. All I would tell him is to take time before unfolding his range of shots. England is different.” The former Indian skipper further added that he loves Test cricket the most and always looks forward to watching full day’s play. ALSO READ: Cricket: England's Ben Foakes ruled out of New Zealand Tests; Sam Billings, Haseeb Hameed called up “Of course. I am a big fan of Test cricket. I love watching the full day’s play. If work keeps me away from the TV, I catch up with the highlights. I always watch as much as I can. There is nothing like Test cricket.” India will take on New Zealand in the final of ICC World Test Championship – starting June 18 in Southampton.

Cricket: Kapil Dev comes up with valuable advise for Rishabh Pant ahead of England tour

New Zealand batsman Henry Nicholls has said that the Black Caps need to be prepared for the Indian spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja despite the Indian team boasting a lethal pace attack. New Zealand will take on India in the final of the ICC World Test Championship in Southampton from June 18. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

India’s pace attack consists of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami whereas the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur are also in contention for the playing XI spot. For New Zealand, the pace troika of Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Neil Wagner are likely to take up the red cherry in Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

“India have a very good seam attack and also have experienced spinners like Ashwin and Jadeja. They have been consistent in all parts of the world (of late) and bring quality (to attack),” Nicholls, who has been in good form of late in Test cricket, told PTI in an interview.

Nicholls further said taking on India will be an exciting challenge and the New Zealand cricket team, as a group, is expecting a tough fight from the world’s number one Test unit.<o:p></o:p>

“Mohammed Shami along with Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma have proven their quality over the years which is similar to our seamers (Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Neil Wagner) on whom we really pride ourselves on.

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“So if you are facing that kind of a line-up, it’s an exciting challenge and as a group we are expecting it to be tough but also looking forward to the challenge,” the 29-year-old southpaw, who enjoys a 43 plus average over 37 Test matches, said. <o:p></o:p>

“That was something that we experimented in the camp before we came over to UK. You managed to get some more turn and get some practice. So playing at a neutral venue, we need to check what the wickets will be like there. Also the guile of Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja is something that we need to be prepared for,” Nicholls said.<o:p></o:p>

Nicholls was a part of the New Zealand outfit that hammered India within three days in two home Test matches in early 2020 and the Black Caps batsman feels the series win gave a lot of confidence from the victorious event.

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“It’s an exciting challenge as finally we will be playing a Test match at a neutral venue. So that for both sides kind of levels the playing field.<o:p></o:p>

“We beat them 2-0 a season back (2019-20). But we know and accept that it’s a different challenge but as a group we take a lot of confidence from that series win against India. Obviously, Number one and two playing the final is a challenge too,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

Before the WTC Final against India, New Zealand will take on England in a two-Test series starting June 2.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand batsman Henry Nicholls has said that the Black Caps need to be prepared for the Indian spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja despite the Indian team boasting a lethal pace attack.

New Zealand batsman Henry Nicholls has said that the Black Caps need to be prepared for the Indian spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja despite the Indian team boasting a lethal pace attack. New Zealand will take on India in the final of the ICC World Test Championship in Southampton from June 18. India’s pace attack consists of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami whereas the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur are also in contention for the playing XI spot. For New Zealand, the pace troika of Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Neil Wagner are likely to take up the red cherry in Southampton. “India have a very good seam attack and also have experienced spinners like Ashwin and Jadeja. They have been consistent in all parts of the world (of late) and bring quality (to attack),” Nicholls, who has been in good form of late in Test cricket, told PTI in an interview. Nicholls further said taking on India will be an exciting challenge and the New Zealand cricket team, as a group, is expecting a tough fight from the world’s number one Test unit. “Mohammed Shami along with Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma have proven their quality over the years which is similar to our seamers (Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Neil Wagner) on whom we really pride ourselves on. ALSO READ: 'We are destroying the system': Ramiz Raja calls out Pakistan Cricket Board “So if you are facing that kind of a line-up, it’s an exciting challenge and as a group we are expecting it to be tough but also looking forward to the challenge,” the 29-year-old southpaw, who enjoys a 43 plus average over 37 Test matches, said. “That was something that we experimented in the camp before we came over to UK. You managed to get some more turn and get some practice. So playing at a neutral venue, we need to check what the wickets will be like there. Also the guile of Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja is something that we need to be prepared for,” Nicholls said. Nicholls was a part of the New Zealand outfit that hammered India within three days in two home Test matches in early 2020 and the Black Caps batsman feels the series win gave a lot of confidence from the victorious event. ALSO READ: Cricket: England's Ben Foakes ruled out of New Zealand Tests; Sam Billings, Haseeb Hameed called up “It’s an exciting challenge as finally we will be playing a Test match at a neutral venue. So that for both sides kind of levels the playing field. “We beat them 2-0 a season back (2019-20). But we know and accept that it’s a different challenge but as a group we take a lot of confidence from that series win against India. Obviously, Number one and two playing the final is a challenge too,” he said. Before the WTC Final against India, New Zealand will take on England in a two-Test series starting June 2.

Cricket: 'Expecting it to be tough' - Henry Nicholls warns New Zealand ahead of WTC final vs India

Former New Zealand batsman Mark Richardson feels that going up against Team India is like 'playing golf against your boss'. He used this analogy to explain&nbsp;how important it is to play right against Virat and Co.

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"I'd look at it from who you want to perform individually against. I look at India at the moment… and it's like playing golf against your boss. You're allowed to win but just in the right way. You know, we stitched them up in New Zealand a couple of times and it always felt a little bit dirty afterwards. It didn't feel like we'd really beaten them," Richardson said on Spark Sport.

Richardson feels that England, Australia and India are the best when it comes to international cricket. He said: "England, yes… they invented the game and you're always playing for your place as a cricket team, I guess. But Australia to me was like the proving ground for a New Zealand cricketer. You went there to prove your mettle and I did it and I'll take that to the grave actually. I'd probably still need help over what happened in Australia. I think they still hold it over us. Even the very best have underperformed against Australia."

Team India are set to take on New Zealand in the finals of the World Test Championship at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Virat and Co. will be looking to continue their domination in red-ball cricket and also redeem themselves from a series loss against the Kiwis. &nbsp;

Former New Zealand batsman Mark Richardson feels that going up against Team India is like 'playing golf against your boss'. He used this analogy to explain how important it is to play right against Virat and Co.

Former New Zealand batsman Mark Richardson feels that going up against Team India is like 'playing golf against your boss'. He used this analogy to explain how important it is to play right against Virat and Co. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'India have a chance 5-0': Monty Panesar on England vs India Test series "I'd look at it from who you want to perform individually against. I look at India at the moment… and it's like playing golf against your boss. You're allowed to win but just in the right way. You know, we stitched them up in New Zealand a couple of times and it always felt a little bit dirty afterwards. It didn't feel like we'd really beaten them," Richardson said on Spark Sport. Richardson feels that England, Australia and India are the best when it comes to international cricket. He said: "England, yes… they invented the game and you're always playing for your place as a cricket team, I guess. But Australia to me was like the proving ground for a New Zealand cricketer. You went there to prove your mettle and I did it and I'll take that to the grave actually. I'd probably still need help over what happened in Australia. I think they still hold it over us. Even the very best have underperformed against Australia." Team India are set to take on New Zealand in the finals of the World Test Championship at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Virat and Co. will be looking to continue their domination in red-ball cricket and also redeem themselves from a series loss against the Kiwis.

'Playing golf against your boss': Mark Richardson on playing against Team India

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to clash with Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship final, to be played in Southampton from June 18, and the expectation for the huge match is touching its pinnacle. It will be an opportunity for both teams to get their hands on the&nbsp;inaugural ICC trophy for Test cricket and build up themselves as the best team in the longest format of the game.

Team India has a solid bowling line-up including pacers Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;and spinners R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel.&nbsp;

With the World Test Championship around the corner, Indian seamer Umesh Yadav mentioned the significance of getting Kane Williamson out as cheaply as possible.

Umesh said that Indian bowlers should get Williamson out as early as possible to get momentum in their favour.

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"We do have a fair idea about Kane’s game, though I don’t think he has too many weaknesses. Of course, any quality batsman can fall to a good delivery, so as a fast bowler, you should look to stick to your strong points and bowl more of those balls which can fetch you wickets. And yeah, we need to get Kane out as early as possible as that’ll surely benefit the team," Umesh told The Telegraph.

Against India, Williamson has played 11 Tests, scoring 728 runs at an average of 36.40, including four half-centuries of two centuries. India had lost both their Tests against New Zealand a year ago, and the impending challenge is required to be an intense one for the Kohli-led team.&nbsp;

Umesh reckons it will be an intense game while commending the Kiwis for their profundity in the batting order.&nbsp;

"New Zealand are a strong side, they bat deep and their pacers are quite experienced and lethal. So it will be a tough game. English conditions are also a big challenge for us and so is playing against a team like New Zealand. But being Test players, we need to play with discipline and make sure we remain disciplined right throughout in all aspects of the game. The team that maintains such discipline in each and every session will prevail" - he added.

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Umesh Yadav last featured for the Indian team in the Boxing Day Test against Australia in 2020, where hobbled off the field after bowling only three overs in the second innings with a calf injury.&nbsp;

Despite the fact, Umesh isn't losing rest about whether he will be included in the playing XI in the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand one month from now. The pacer feels that being in and out of the group is an integral part of the game and&nbsp;needs to keep himself persuaded in preparing.&nbsp;

"Being in the XI or not being included is another part of the game. You play some, you miss some. But I have kept backing myself and also motivate myself during training so that my mind and body stay positive. That helps me feel strong. It’s just about keeping yourself fit with a positive mindset, which is in your control," he said.

"As I would say, conditions, situations. and who’s bowling well in matches as well as at the nets determine the final XI. Besides, that’s the job of the team management and honestly, we are never really tense regarding our chances," the experienced pacer added.

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to clash with Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship final, to be played in Southampton from June 18, and the expectation for the huge match is touching its pinnacle.

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to clash with Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship final, to be played in Southampton from June 18, and the expectation for the huge match is touching its pinnacle. It will be an opportunity for both teams to get their hands on the inaugural ICC trophy for Test cricket and build up themselves as the best team in the longest format of the game. Team India has a solid bowling line-up including pacers Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur and spinners R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel. With the World Test Championship around the corner, Indian seamer Umesh Yadav mentioned the significance of getting Kane Williamson out as cheaply as possible. Umesh said that Indian bowlers should get Williamson out as early as possible to get momentum in their favour. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: MS Dhoni imitates Ravindra Jadeja's sword celebration, CSK all-rounder responds - Watch "We do have a fair idea about Kane’s game, though I don’t think he has too many weaknesses. Of course, any quality batsman can fall to a good delivery, so as a fast bowler, you should look to stick to your strong points and bowl more of those balls which can fetch you wickets. And yeah, we need to get Kane out as early as possible as that’ll surely benefit the team," Umesh told The Telegraph. Against India, Williamson has played 11 Tests, scoring 728 runs at an average of 36.40, including four half-centuries of two centuries. India had lost both their Tests against New Zealand a year ago, and the impending challenge is required to be an intense one for the Kohli-led team. Umesh reckons it will be an intense game while commending the Kiwis for their profundity in the batting order. "New Zealand are a strong side, they bat deep and their pacers are quite experienced and lethal. So it will be a tough game. English conditions are also a big challenge for us and so is playing against a team like New Zealand. But being Test players, we need to play with discipline and make sure we remain disciplined right throughout in all aspects of the game. The team that maintains such discipline in each and every session will prevail" - he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC says 'insufficient evidence' in match-fixing claims by a documentary Umesh Yadav last featured for the Indian team in the Boxing Day Test against Australia in 2020, where hobbled off the field after bowling only three overs in the second innings with a calf injury. Despite the fact, Umesh isn't losing rest about whether he will be included in the playing XI in the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand one month from now. The pacer feels that being in and out of the group is an integral part of the game and needs to keep himself persuaded in preparing. "Being in the XI or not being included is another part of the game. You play some, you miss some. But I have kept backing myself and also motivate myself during training so that my mind and body stay positive. That helps me feel strong. It’s just about keeping yourself fit with a positive mindset, which is in your control," he said. "As I would say, conditions, situations. and who’s bowling well in matches as well as at the nets determine the final XI. Besides, that’s the job of the team management and honestly, we are never really tense regarding our chances," the experienced pacer added.

WTC Final: 'Don’t think he has too many weaknesses' - Umesh Yadav points at key wicket for Team India

Team India have dominated the Test rankings for the past five years. Virat and Co. under head coach Ravi Shastri are ranked number one for five straight years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a>

India ended on the top of the World Test Championship points table despite a change in rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 that dampened Virat and Co.'s hopes to qualify for the finals. However, Team India fought back and defeated Australia in an away series and dominated England at home to book the final berth and will now face New Zealand for the inaugural title clash.&nbsp;

Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri took to Twitter and said that his side overcame all the hurdles to become the number one team in Test cricket. He said: "This team has shown steely resolve &amp; unwavering focus to be crowned No. 1. It is something the boys have earned fair &amp; square. Rules changed midway but #TeamIndia overcame every hurdle along the way. My boys played tough cricket in tough times. Super proud of this bindass bunch."

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai.

The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period.

<h2 style="margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:10px; text-align:start; -webkit-text-stroke-width:0px">India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England</h2>

India’s squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance).

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India have dominated the Test rankings for the past five years. Virat and Co. under head coach Ravi Shastri are ranked number one for five straight years. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team India ended on the top of the World Test Championship points table despite a change in rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 that dampened Virat and Co.

Team India have dominated the Test rankings for the past five years. Virat and Co. under head coach Ravi Shastri are ranked number one for five straight years. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team India ended on the top of the World Test Championship points table despite a change in rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 that dampened Virat and Co.'s hopes to qualify for the finals. However, Team India fought back and defeated Australia in an away series and dominated England at home to book the final berth and will now face New Zealand for the inaugural title clash. Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri took to Twitter and said that his side overcame all the hurdles to become the number one team in Test cricket. He said: "This team has shown steely resolve & unwavering focus to be crowned No. 1. It is something the boys have earned fair & square. Rules changed midway but #TeamIndia overcame every hurdle along the way. My boys played tough cricket in tough times. Super proud of this bindass bunch." Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance). Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

'Overcame every hurdle': Ravi Shastri lauds Team India's dominance in Tests

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav revealed that he started doubting himself after getting benched in the Test series against Australia and England. He featured in the playing XI in the second Test match against England in Chennai after waiting for over two years. The wrist-spinner said that he was under a lot of pressure during the Test match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealands-watling-to-retire-after-india-final-384474" hreflang="en">New Zealand's Watling to retire after India final</a>

"I didn't play as many matches as I expected to, and somewhere I was low on confidence. When you are playing non-stop, players do feel high on confidence. The more one sits out the more it gets tougher. I felt a huge pressure on me when I played the Test against England in Chennai this February (his last Test was in January 2019). Due to Covid there was nothing happening, so things got really tougher even more last year. It wasn't the best period," Kuldeep told The Indian Express in an interview.

Kuldeep Yadav is not a part of India's 20-member squad for the World Test Championship finals against New Zealand and the five-match Test series against England. Yadav talked about his battle&nbsp;with thoughts of self-doubt and added&nbsp;that at one point he felt that serving drinks was 'the best'.

"Sometimes I felt, 'what is going on?'. It was difficult times. Sometimes, the mind says, 'ab shayad woh Kuldeep nahi rahe' (Perhaps, I am not the same Kuldeep). Sometimes I feel, 'no, I am still the same' and I wait for the opportunity," Kuldeep said.

"There were days when you feel serving drinks and being on the bench is for the best – yaar yeh to best seat hai apne liye – and then but there are days you don’t want to be in that place. I would think, I should have been there playing. I tried to motivate myself every time. I try to be happy and feel that I am bowling well. There was self-doubt somewhere. It happens with everyone, I started questioning myself."

Kuldeep is yet to feature for Kolkata Knight Riders in the recently-suspended IPL 2021.&nbsp;

"I was, especially when I didn't find a place in my IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders. I wondered, 'am I that bad?' It's a team-management decision and it would be wrong to go and ask them," Kuldeep responded when asked if we depressed.

"I wasn't played in Chennai during the IPL despite knowing it's a turner. I was a bit shocked but couldn't do anything. The bio-bubble life has also thrown challenges for everyone. When I am not playing, nothing looks nice."

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav revealed that he started doubting himself after getting benched in the Test series against Australia and England. He featured in the playing XI in the second Test match against England in Chennai after waiting for over two years.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav revealed that he started doubting himself after getting benched in the Test series against Australia and England. He featured in the playing XI in the second Test match against England in Chennai after waiting for over two years. The wrist-spinner said that he was under a lot of pressure during the Test match. ALSO READ: New Zealand's Watling to retire after India final "I didn't play as many matches as I expected to, and somewhere I was low on confidence. When you are playing non-stop, players do feel high on confidence. The more one sits out the more it gets tougher. I felt a huge pressure on me when I played the Test against England in Chennai this February (his last Test was in January 2019). Due to Covid there was nothing happening, so things got really tougher even more last year. It wasn't the best period," Kuldeep told The Indian Express in an interview. Kuldeep Yadav is not a part of India's 20-member squad for the World Test Championship finals against New Zealand and the five-match Test series against England. Yadav talked about his battle with thoughts of self-doubt and added that at one point he felt that serving drinks was 'the best'. "Sometimes I felt, 'what is going on?'. It was difficult times. Sometimes, the mind says, 'ab shayad woh Kuldeep nahi rahe' (Perhaps, I am not the same Kuldeep). Sometimes I feel, 'no, I am still the same' and I wait for the opportunity," Kuldeep said. "There were days when you feel serving drinks and being on the bench is for the best – yaar yeh to best seat hai apne liye – and then but there are days you don’t want to be in that place. I would think, I should have been there playing. I tried to motivate myself every time. I try to be happy and feel that I am bowling well. There was self-doubt somewhere. It happens with everyone, I started questioning myself." Kuldeep is yet to feature for Kolkata Knight Riders in the recently-suspended IPL 2021. "I was, especially when I didn't find a place in my IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders. I wondered, 'am I that bad?' It's a team-management decision and it would be wrong to go and ask them," Kuldeep responded when asked if we depressed. "I wasn't played in Chennai during the IPL despite knowing it's a turner. I was a bit shocked but couldn't do anything. The bio-bubble life has also thrown challenges for everyone. When I am not playing, nothing looks nice."

'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England.

The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters.

"The time is right," said Watling in a New Zealand cricket statement issued Wednesday.

"It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy."

South Africa-born Watling, who moved to New Zealand as a 10-year-old, has taken 259 catches and completed eight stumpings in Tests, as well as being an effective batsman with 3,773 runs at an average of over 38, including eight hundreds, in the five-day game.

But Watling, who recently became a father for the second time, said bowing out next month was the correct decision.

"It's the right time," he said. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy (cap).&nbsp;

"Test cricket really is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys.

He added: "Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I'll miss the most."

Watling, looking ahead to the Blackcaps trip to Britain, said: "Although I've had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them.

"This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed."

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England. The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters.

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England. The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters. "The time is right," said Watling in a New Zealand cricket statement issued Wednesday. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy." South Africa-born Watling, who moved to New Zealand as a 10-year-old, has taken 259 catches and completed eight stumpings in Tests, as well as being an effective batsman with 3,773 runs at an average of over 38, including eight hundreds, in the five-day game. But Watling, who recently became a father for the second time, said bowing out next month was the correct decision. "It's the right time," he said. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy (cap). "Test cricket really is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys. He added: "Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I'll miss the most." Watling, looking ahead to the Blackcaps trip to Britain, said: "Although I've had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them. "This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed."

New Zealand's Watling to retire after India final

Team India picked their squad for the visit through England what begins one month from now. BCCI selectors picked a solid 20-member squad for India's four-month visit through England where they play the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand on June 18, preceding confronting the hosts in a five-test series. Rahul Dravid felt that the combination of the squad made it clear that the management definitely understood what their best XI would be.&nbsp;

It denoted the arrival of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and batsman Hanuma Vihari, who, because of their individual injuries needed to miss the four-Test series against England at home. Kuldeep Yadav was not named in the squad&nbsp;and it signalled towards&nbsp;his descending direction since the 2019 Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

The left-arm spinner was a customary individual from India's limited-overs side before the 2019 Cricket World Cup and was one of the highest wicket-taking bowlers during that period. Kuldeep Yadav even procured a Test call-up and has two five-wicket hauls in the seven&nbsp;matches he has played for India. Yet, he has lost structure and certainty and has lost his place in Team India and furthermore is on the edges for Kolkata Knight Riders.

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Kuldeep Yadav has featured in seven&nbsp;Test matches for India and has gotten 26 wickets at an average of 23.85.

Rahul Dravid additionally discussed Kuldeep's form while remarking on India's 'balanced' squad for visit through England.

“It does seem balanced. It’s a 20-member squad. The only other one who could have merited selection would’ve been Kuldeep Yadav, but he’s fallen away over the last little bit. Also, with the kind of recent performances from Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, they’re clear about the kind of balance they want in the squad, Rahul Dravid said during a webinar organized by Live Aid India.

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“With both Ashwin and Jadeja adding value with the bat and having like-for-like replacements in Axar and Washy, they’re clear about the direction they want to take. It lengthens their batting and all four finger spinners here allow them to do that. The make-up of the squad tells me they know their best XI even before they leave from here.” – he said.

Team India picked their squad for the visit through England what begins one month from now. BCCI selectors picked a solid 20-member squad for India's four-month visit through England where they play the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand on June 18, preceding confronting the hosts in a five-test series.

Team India picked their squad for the visit through England what begins one month from now. BCCI selectors picked a solid 20-member squad for India's four-month visit through England where they play the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand on June 18, preceding confronting the hosts in a five-test series. Rahul Dravid felt that the combination of the squad made it clear that the management definitely understood what their best XI would be. It denoted the arrival of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and batsman Hanuma Vihari, who, because of their individual injuries needed to miss the four-Test series against England at home. Kuldeep Yadav was not named in the squad and it signalled towards his descending direction since the 2019 Cricket World Cup. The left-arm spinner was a customary individual from India's limited-overs side before the 2019 Cricket World Cup and was one of the highest wicket-taking bowlers during that period. Kuldeep Yadav even procured a Test call-up and has two five-wicket hauls in the seven matches he has played for India. Yet, he has lost structure and certainty and has lost his place in Team India and furthermore is on the edges for Kolkata Knight Riders. ALSO READ: From Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli: Cricketing stalwarts who contributed in India's fight against COVID-19 Kuldeep Yadav has featured in seven Test matches for India and has gotten 26 wickets at an average of 23.85. Rahul Dravid additionally discussed Kuldeep's form while remarking on India's 'balanced' squad for visit through England. “It does seem balanced. It’s a 20-member squad. The only other one who could have merited selection would’ve been Kuldeep Yadav, but he’s fallen away over the last little bit. Also, with the kind of recent performances from Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, they’re clear about the kind of balance they want in the squad, Rahul Dravid said during a webinar organized by Live Aid India. ALSO READ: The Hundred: Smriti Mandhana to play for Southern Brave, Harmanpreet to represent Manchester Originals “With both Ashwin and Jadeja adding value with the bat and having like-for-like replacements in Axar and Washy, they’re clear about the direction they want to take. It lengthens their batting and all four finger spinners here allow them to do that. The make-up of the squad tells me they know their best XI even before they leave from here.” – he said.

Rahul Dravid names one player ‘who could have merited selection’ for England vs India series

The Team India squad for the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which will be played against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, is likely to be picked on Friday (May 7). <o:p></o:p>

While not many changes are expected in the Indian Test squad, which played against New Zealand, there are talks over whether to leave Hardik Pandya out, due to him not being able to bowl full-tilt. The Chetan Sharma-led Indian selection committee is expected to pick a jumbo squad consisting of four openers, five middle-order batsmen, around nine pacers and three wicket-keepers, according to reports.<o:p></o:p>

However, the exact size of the Indian squad will depend on BCCI advisory on whether to select the squad for just the WTC final or for the five-Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The final of the World Test championship will be held from June 18 to 22 with a reserve day.

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Four openers – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal are set to retain their spots with a chance of Prithvi Shaw missing out on the call.<o:p></o:p>

The selectors could pick young pacer Prasidh Krishna, who impressed in the white-ball leg against England and in the IPL. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav are likely to retain their places. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja are also set to make a comeback along with Hanuma Vihari.

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Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel are a surety to retain their spots in the Test team just like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Virat Kohli. Washington Sundar is also likely to get the nod for the WTC final squad.<o:p></o:p>

The Team India squad for the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which will be played against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, is likely to be picked on Friday (May 7).

The Team India squad for the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which will be played against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, is likely to be picked on Friday (May 7). While not many changes are expected in the Indian Test squad, which played against New Zealand, there are talks over whether to leave Hardik Pandya out, due to him not being able to bowl full-tilt. The Chetan Sharma-led Indian selection committee is expected to pick a jumbo squad consisting of four openers, five middle-order batsmen, around nine pacers and three wicket-keepers, according to reports. However, the exact size of the Indian squad will depend on BCCI advisory on whether to select the squad for just the WTC final or for the five-Test series against England. The final of the World Test championship will be held from June 18 to 22 with a reserve day. ALSO READ: 'No breach of bubble': BCCI chief Ganguly talks about Covid cases in IPL 2021 Four openers – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal are set to retain their spots with a chance of Prithvi Shaw missing out on the call. The selectors could pick young pacer Prasidh Krishna, who impressed in the white-ball leg against England and in the IPL. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav are likely to retain their places. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja are also set to make a comeback along with Hanuma Vihari. ALSO READ: English County clubs offer to host remainder of IPL 2021 in September Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel are a surety to retain their spots in the Test team just like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Virat Kohli. Washington Sundar is also likely to get the nod for the WTC final squad.

India Test squad for WTC final to be selected soon, selectors likely to mull over Hardik, Shaw

Australia&nbsp;head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points.&nbsp;

Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match.&nbsp;

"This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It wasn't until after the game that we&nbsp;realised&nbsp;our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf.&nbsp;

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"I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to&nbsp;Painey&nbsp;(skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

"And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane.&nbsp;

"It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend."&nbsp;

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Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control.&nbsp;

"How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said.&nbsp;

"And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing.&nbsp;

"At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again.&nbsp;

"It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added.&nbsp;

The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia&nbsp;were&nbsp;docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour. The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points. Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match. "This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN. "It wasn't until after the game that we realised our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to Painey (skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship. "And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane. "It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend." ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control. "How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said. "And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing. "At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again. "It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added. The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia were docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.

'Very disappointing': Justin Langer rues missing WTC final berth due to major error against India

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{99}" paraid="1731037771" >How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats</h2>

So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the&nbsp;Ageas&nbsp;Bowl.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3a5f360-ebf4-450f-b4a0-7a53adf28872}{144}" paraid="91912517" >Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl</h2>

The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{153}" paraid="1862149208" >Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-southampton-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-confirms-sourav-ganguly-368899" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a>

Talking about individual performances,&nbsp;the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton.&nbsp;

England's Zak Crawley has scored the most&nbsp;number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{83}" paraid="730857699" >Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the&nbsp;venue&nbsp;with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;(4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-send-second-string-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2021-report-368887" hreflang="en">BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{95}" paraid="1047667743" >New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton</h2>

New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket.&nbsp;

In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.&nbsp;

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl. Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for. Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly Talking about individual performances, the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton. England's Zak Crawley has scored the most number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered most number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33. Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the venue with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit Bumrah (4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4). ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket. In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.

WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final&nbsp;–&nbsp;dates&nbsp;yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC.&nbsp;

In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the&nbsp;percentage of win points.&nbsp;

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With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZoliydObpd">pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;in a two-Test series from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,”&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli&nbsp;had said&nbsp;heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.&nbsp;

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day.

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final – dates yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC. In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the percentage of win points. With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀#WTC21 pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd — ICC (@ICC) January 25, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face New Zealand in a two-Test series from June 2. “I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,” Indian captain Virat Kohli had said heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.

ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!

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