The weather forecast of the World test Championship final between India and New Zealand predicted rain for almost all five days. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was asked about the weather during the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-hammering-down-cloudy-skies-downpour-guarantee-to-threaten-wtc-final-clash-at-rose-bowl-392348" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Hammering down'- Cloudy skies, downpour guarantee to threaten WTC final clash at Rose Bowl</a>

"No, it does not change anything from our point of view as a team. For us, it is about covering all bases and making sure that we take the strongest side we can on the park. It gives us batting depth and gives us enough bowling options as well. So, we are quite clear in terms of what we want to do.

"Forecast is something we are not focussed on. We are not going to think about what might change. Regardless of anything we have all our bases covered and we know that. So, we are not bothered about what the weather forecast holds or whether we have to change the whole outlook of the team," Kohli said when asked about the weather affecting his team combination.

"Obviously how you approach the game and the decisions that you make, day to day, they obviously alter when the conditions are different but not your whole team altogether," he added.

Aside from team systems, strategies, and pitch conditions, there has been a lot of conversation over the climate in Southampton for the WTC final.&nbsp;

A glance at the conjecture for Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand WTC last doesn't make for charming perusing taking everything into account. There is a forecast for a downpour just as notice for rainstorms. The overcast cover is the gauge to be a high 94% while the temperature will be cool, at around 16 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The climate for the excess four days of India versus New Zealand WTC final is additionally not unreasonably encouraging, with the reliable expectation of downpour and industrious overcast cover.

The first session of Day 1 was washed out due to a heavy downpour.&nbsp;

The weather forecast of the World test Championship final between India and New Zealand predicted rain for almost all five days. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was asked about the weather during the pre-match press conference.

The weather forecast of the World test Championship final between India and New Zealand predicted rain for almost all five days. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was asked about the weather during the pre-match press conference. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Hammering down'- Cloudy skies, downpour guarantee to threaten WTC final clash at Rose Bowl "No, it does not change anything from our point of view as a team. For us, it is about covering all bases and making sure that we take the strongest side we can on the park. It gives us batting depth and gives us enough bowling options as well. So, we are quite clear in terms of what we want to do. "Forecast is something we are not focussed on. We are not going to think about what might change. Regardless of anything we have all our bases covered and we know that. So, we are not bothered about what the weather forecast holds or whether we have to change the whole outlook of the team," Kohli said when asked about the weather affecting his team combination. "Obviously how you approach the game and the decisions that you make, day to day, they obviously alter when the conditions are different but not your whole team altogether," he added. Aside from team systems, strategies, and pitch conditions, there has been a lot of conversation over the climate in Southampton for the WTC final. A glance at the conjecture for Day 1 of the India versus New Zealand WTC last doesn't make for charming perusing taking everything into account. There is a forecast for a downpour just as notice for rainstorms. The overcast cover is the gauge to be a high 94% while the temperature will be cool, at around 16 degrees Celsius. The climate for the excess four days of India versus New Zealand WTC final is additionally not unreasonably encouraging, with the reliable expectation of downpour and industrious overcast cover. The first session of Day 1 was washed out due to a heavy downpour.

'Forecast is something we are not focussed on', Virat Kohli ahead of WTC final

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has faced several top bowlers in his prolific career. One among them was Dale Steyn, the Proteas in his prime used his menacing pace against young Virat. Now, Steyn has revealed his plan of bowling to India's top batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-if-india-lose-toss-that-will-be-ideal-for-them-says-sanjay-manjrekar-ahead-of-wtc-final-392339">'If India lose toss, it will be ideal for them': Manjrekar ahead of WTC final</a>

"You've got to play the mind games with Virat. I would look at putting somebody in at short leg. I would let him know that I'm going to come at him, come at his body, want to come quickly at him. And I'd want him to try and pull, because I feel like that's his B game," Steyn told Sanjay Manjrekar on ESPNCricinfo ahead of the start of the World Test Championship final in Southampton.

"Even though he does it really well, I'd want him to think that's where I'm going to bowl, and then get it up there because I like to swing the ball, I like to move the ball. Look for those three modes of dismissals, LBW, bowled and the caught behind."

Dale Steyn talked about how important it was to bait the batsman into believing that he is being set up for a short ball while the reality would be something totally different.

"We know, every batter's feet in the first 20 balls is not moving as well as he's like to. His eyes haven't adjusted, he hasn't adapted to the wicket just yet. So I'd want him to think I'm going to go short but I'll probably bowl six full balls to him to be honest," Steyn added.

"I'll probably trying to get him to nick every single ball but I'll be telling him, 'it's coming… I'm going to hit you in the head you know'. I'm not going to swear at him but let him know that that short leg is in business."

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has faced several top bowlers in his prolific career. One among them was Dale Steyn, the Proteas in his prime used his menacing pace against young Virat.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has faced several top bowlers in his prolific career. One among them was Dale Steyn, the Proteas in his prime used his menacing pace against young Virat. Now, Steyn has revealed his plan of bowling to India's top batsman. ALSO READ: 'If India lose toss, it will be ideal for them': Manjrekar ahead of WTC final "You've got to play the mind games with Virat. I would look at putting somebody in at short leg. I would let him know that I'm going to come at him, come at his body, want to come quickly at him. And I'd want him to try and pull, because I feel like that's his B game," Steyn told Sanjay Manjrekar on ESPNCricinfo ahead of the start of the World Test Championship final in Southampton. "Even though he does it really well, I'd want him to think that's where I'm going to bowl, and then get it up there because I like to swing the ball, I like to move the ball. Look for those three modes of dismissals, LBW, bowled and the caught behind." Dale Steyn talked about how important it was to bait the batsman into believing that he is being set up for a short ball while the reality would be something totally different. "We know, every batter's feet in the first 20 balls is not moving as well as he's like to. His eyes haven't adjusted, he hasn't adapted to the wicket just yet. So I'd want him to think I'm going to go short but I'll probably bowl six full balls to him to be honest," Steyn added. "I'll probably trying to get him to nick every single ball but I'll be telling him, 'it's coming… I'm going to hit you in the head you know'. I'm not going to swear at him but let him know that that short leg is in business."

Cricket: 'You've got to play the mind games with Virat', says Dale Steyn

Playing fearless cricket is top of the agenda for Ajinkya Rahane as he urged India’s batsmen to express themselves against New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Final.

The 33-year-old right-hander has been India’s highest run-scorer in the inaugural WTC, scoring 1,095 runs at 43.80 during the cycle and notching three centuries and six half-centuries.&nbsp;

But he will need to be at his very best in Southampton against New Zealand’s greatest WTC wicket-taker in the form of Tim Southee in one of the most hotly-anticipated battles.&nbsp;

And while a place in cricketing history is up for grabs for the victorious team in Southampton, Rahane insists India’s focus is only on playing their natural game rather than the high stakes.

“We just want to take this as just another game, play it as just another game. What is important for us is to start well, we know New Zealand are a very good team,” said Rahane.&nbsp;

“We don’t want to take them lightly and as a team, we have been doing so well and we just want to continue what we’ve been doing over the last two years, play one day, one session at a time.&nbsp;

“Our planning, our strategies will be completely different from when we last played against England here in Southampton [in 2018], the plan was different that time.&nbsp;

“We just want to take this as just another game. We don’t want to put ourselves under pressure especially playing a Test match after a long time now.&nbsp;

“I think what is important in this Test match is playing with freedom, playing fearless cricket as a team and backing each other. That will really help us rather than thinking about the result.&nbsp;

“As long as we’re backing ourselves and following our processes and playing our natural game as an individual and as a team, that will matter a lot.”&nbsp;

India’s last Test in Southampton ended in a 60-run defeat to England in 2018 but while Rahane hopes his experience at the venue comes in handy, he is only worried about the present.&nbsp;

“I have played at this venue many times now, I’ve played for Hampshire also here, so I do know the conditions well, but what is important is to be in the moment, be in the present,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-final-india-vs-new-zealand-day-wise-weather-forecast-as-rain-threat-looms-in-southampton-391989" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC Final, India vs New Zealand: Day-wise weather forecast as rain threat looms in Southampton</a>

“I just adjust to the conditions on that particular day so being the highest run-scorer doesn’t matter for me now, like I said whatever happened was in the past.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The last time the two sides met in the five-day format, hosts New Zealand defeated India in back-to-back Tests as part of the current WTC cycle at the beginning of 2020.&nbsp;

Southee praises Indian batting line-up:&nbsp;Southee proved a menace in both games and comes into the final showdown with 51 wickets at 20.66 in the WTC, with three five-wicket hauls and a six-for against England last time out.&nbsp;

But despite the veteran Kiwi pacer being in superb form, he acknowledged that the New Zealand bowling attack will have little room for error against India’s dynamic batting line-up.&nbsp;

“It’s an exciting batting line-up, the mix of experienced guys and a couple of young guys who have come in and played with that freedom and that excitement that they have,” he said.&nbsp;

“Rohit Sharma’s a tremendous player in all three formats and personally a guy I like watching bat, his style and the way he can take a game away from the opposition is great to watch.&nbsp;

“But I know as a bowling group that it’s a dangerous line-up throughout, Rohit is only one of many very good batters in this Indian batting line-up that we have to be on top of our game against.”&nbsp;

On India’s skipper, he added: “As a player, you like to test yourself against the best and Virat [Kohli] is one of the best to play the game, definitely one of the modern-day greats but it’s not only him.&nbsp;

“We know there are so many dangerous players in this Indian batting line-up so we’re going to have to be on top of our game as a bowling unit and we know how dangerous they can be.”&nbsp;

Playing fearless cricket is top of the agenda for Ajinkya Rahane as he urged India’s batsmen to express themselves against New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Final.

Playing fearless cricket is top of the agenda for Ajinkya Rahane as he urged India’s batsmen to express themselves against New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Final. The 33-year-old right-hander has been India’s highest run-scorer in the inaugural WTC, scoring 1,095 runs at 43.80 during the cycle and notching three centuries and six half-centuries. But he will need to be at his very best in Southampton against New Zealand’s greatest WTC wicket-taker in the form of Tim Southee in one of the most hotly-anticipated battles. And while a place in cricketing history is up for grabs for the victorious team in Southampton, Rahane insists India’s focus is only on playing their natural game rather than the high stakes. “We just want to take this as just another game, play it as just another game. What is important for us is to start well, we know New Zealand are a very good team,” said Rahane. “We don’t want to take them lightly and as a team, we have been doing so well and we just want to continue what we’ve been doing over the last two years, play one day, one session at a time. “Our planning, our strategies will be completely different from when we last played against England here in Southampton [in 2018], the plan was different that time. “We just want to take this as just another game. We don’t want to put ourselves under pressure especially playing a Test match after a long time now. “I think what is important in this Test match is playing with freedom, playing fearless cricket as a team and backing each other. That will really help us rather than thinking about the result. “As long as we’re backing ourselves and following our processes and playing our natural game as an individual and as a team, that will matter a lot.” India’s last Test in Southampton ended in a 60-run defeat to England in 2018 but while Rahane hopes his experience at the venue comes in handy, he is only worried about the present. “I have played at this venue many times now, I’ve played for Hampshire also here, so I do know the conditions well, but what is important is to be in the moment, be in the present,” he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC Final, India vs New Zealand: Day-wise weather forecast as rain threat looms in Southampton “I just adjust to the conditions on that particular day so being the highest run-scorer doesn’t matter for me now, like I said whatever happened was in the past.” The last time the two sides met in the five-day format, hosts New Zealand defeated India in back-to-back Tests as part of the current WTC cycle at the beginning of 2020. Southee praises Indian batting line-up: Southee proved a menace in both games and comes into the final showdown with 51 wickets at 20.66 in the WTC, with three five-wicket hauls and a six-for against England last time out. But despite the veteran Kiwi pacer being in superb form, he acknowledged that the New Zealand bowling attack will have little room for error against India’s dynamic batting line-up. “It’s an exciting batting line-up, the mix of experienced guys and a couple of young guys who have come in and played with that freedom and that excitement that they have,” he said. “Rohit Sharma’s a tremendous player in all three formats and personally a guy I like watching bat, his style and the way he can take a game away from the opposition is great to watch. “But I know as a bowling group that it’s a dangerous line-up throughout, Rohit is only one of many very good batters in this Indian batting line-up that we have to be on top of our game against.” On India’s skipper, he added: “As a player, you like to test yourself against the best and Virat [Kohli] is one of the best to play the game, definitely one of the modern-day greats but it’s not only him. “We know there are so many dangerous players in this Indian batting line-up so we’re going to have to be on top of our game as a bowling unit and we know how dangerous they can be.”

Fearless cricket the priority for Rahane as WTC Final vs New Zealand nears

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday. <o:p></o:p>

Indian skipper Kohli said that a one-off Test match to determine the winner of WTC is not a “true reflection” of his team while adding he is treating it as “just another” match. With the Test Mace on the line, Kohli isn’t too bothered about winning or losing the match yet and wants to enjoy the occasion of being in the inaugural edition of the WTC.<o:p></o:p>

“One game over five days. It’s not going to reflect anything and those who understand the game know and also what has gone over the period of last four to five years," Kohli said on the eve of the big final against the Black Caps.<o:p></o:p>

“If we win, cricket will not stop and if we lose also, cricket won’t stop. We are playing in quest of excellence and understand who we are as a team," the eloquent Indian captain added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mohammed-siraj-misses-out-as-india-announce-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-392210" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“This is just another Test match. All these things (WTC final) look good from the outside. One game can’t become a do-or-die game. It’s a great moment but cricket goes on just like life goes on."<o:p></o:p>

“The occasion needs to be enjoyed and no more important than the first Test that we all played as young players trying to rise through the ranks.<o:p></o:p>

“We need to have belief in our abilities and keep things simple. It’s a contest between bat and ball."<o:p></o:p>

Whereas Williamson reflected on New Zealand’s growth as a powerhouse team over the years but said that he is not reading too much into the ‘favourites’ tag given to his team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-collective-strength-of-team-india-stands-out-for-me-sachin-tendulkar-ahead-of-wtc-final-392197" hreflang="en">Exclusive | 'Collective strength of Team India stands out for me': Sachin Tendulkar ahead of WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude," Williamson said on the eve of the final.<o:p></o:p>

“There is lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of WTC).<o:p></o:p>

“It’s exciting but for us it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on. We are trying to look at the long game and try and improve all the time."<o:p></o:p>

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday.

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday. Indian skipper Kohli said that a one-off Test match to determine the winner of WTC is not a “true reflection” of his team while adding he is treating it as “just another” match. With the Test Mace on the line, Kohli isn’t too bothered about winning or losing the match yet and wants to enjoy the occasion of being in the inaugural edition of the WTC. “One game over five days. It’s not going to reflect anything and those who understand the game know and also what has gone over the period of last four to five years," Kohli said on the eve of the big final against the Black Caps. “If we win, cricket will not stop and if we lose also, cricket won’t stop. We are playing in quest of excellence and understand who we are as a team," the eloquent Indian captain added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final “This is just another Test match. All these things (WTC final) look good from the outside. One game can’t become a do-or-die game. It’s a great moment but cricket goes on just like life goes on." “The occasion needs to be enjoyed and no more important than the first Test that we all played as young players trying to rise through the ranks. “We need to have belief in our abilities and keep things simple. It’s a contest between bat and ball." Whereas Williamson reflected on New Zealand’s growth as a powerhouse team over the years but said that he is not reading too much into the ‘favourites’ tag given to his team. ALSO READ: Exclusive | 'Collective strength of Team India stands out for me': Sachin Tendulkar ahead of WTC Final “There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude," Williamson said on the eve of the final. “There is lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of WTC). “It’s exciting but for us it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on. We are trying to look at the long game and try and improve all the time."

Cricket: WTC Final - Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson gear up for ultimate prize in Test cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played against New Zealand from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

The biggest debate surrounding the bowling attack of the Indian team for the WTC Final came to a conclusion as the Indian team finalised the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami while going with two spin options in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. <o:p></o:p>

The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final.

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🚨 NEWS 🚨 
 
Here's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Playing XI for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> Final 💪 👇 <a href="https://t.co/DiOBAzf88h">pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1405522436850782213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>India playing XI for WTC Final vs New Zealand:</o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rohit Sharma<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Shubman Gill<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Cheteshwar Pujara<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ajinkya Rahane<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rishabh Pant<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ravindra Jadeja<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">R Ashwin<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jasprit Bumrah<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ishant Sharma<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammed Shami</li>
</ul>

<o:p>Going with both Ashwin and Jadeja have ensured India have a good batting depth in their XI with the duo providing good account of their display with the willow in recent times.&nbsp;</o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played against New Zealand from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played against New Zealand from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The biggest debate surrounding the bowling attack of the Indian team for the WTC Final came to a conclusion as the Indian team finalised the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami while going with two spin options in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 Here's #TeamIndia's Playing XI for the #WTC21 Final 💪 👇 pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h — BCCI (@BCCI) June 17, 2021 × India playing XI for WTC Final vs New Zealand: Virat Kohli Rohit Sharma Shubman Gill Cheteshwar Pujara Ajinkya Rahane Rishabh Pant Ravindra Jadeja R Ashwin Jasprit Bumrah Ishant Sharma Mohammed Shami Going with both Ashwin and Jadeja have ensured India have a good batting depth in their XI with the duo providing good account of their display with the willow in recent times.

Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final

Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mohammed-siraj-misses-out-as-india-announce-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-392210" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final</a>

The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will fill in for the spin position and also will provide a much-needed depth to the Men in Blue. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma will be the pacers for the match.&nbsp;

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🚨 NEWS 🚨 
 
Here's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Playing XI for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> Final 💪 👇 <a href="https://t.co/DiOBAzf88h">pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1405522436850782213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Twitteratis could not keep calm after BCCI announced playing XI for the World Test Championship final. While most of them were happy with the announcement, there were few who were not pleased with Mohammed Siraj's exclusion. &nbsp;

Let's take a look at some of the reaction.&nbsp;

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Best 11🥵, let's end Kiwis now
— Shreya✨🇩🇪 (@pink_pistachioz) <a href="https://twitter.com/pink_pistachioz/status/1405525053001764869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As expected. Perfecto 👌
— 🐾🦦🐕 (@seapish) <a href="https://twitter.com/seapish/status/1405525855963471873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The last time when Bumrah-Ishant-Shami played together for India in a Test match - India lost by 10 wickets (v NZ, Wellington, 2020).
— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/UPStatsman/status/1405527355091603464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Siraj should have played instead of jadeja because of English conditions, everything else looks perfect 👍
— 🏌️ (@Plant_Warrior) <a href="https://twitter.com/Plant_Warrior/status/1405523694504398849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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No siraj seriously 🤦🏿‍♂️🙄
— 🚜 Karan Gill ☬ (@JATTLANDPB11) <a href="https://twitter.com/JATTLANDPB11/status/1405525665454071811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will fill in for the spin position and also will provide a much-needed depth to the Men in Blue. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma will be the pacers for the match. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 Here's #TeamIndia's Playing XI for the #WTC21 Final 💪 👇 pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h — BCCI (@BCCI) June 17, 2021 × Twitteratis could not keep calm after BCCI announced playing XI for the World Test Championship final. While most of them were happy with the announcement, there were few who were not pleased with Mohammed Siraj's exclusion. Let's take a look at some of the reaction. Best 11🥵, let's end Kiwis now — Shreya✨🇩🇪 (@pink_pistachioz) June 17, 2021 × As expected. Perfecto 👌 — 🐾🦦🐕 (@seapish) June 17, 2021 × The last time when Bumrah-Ishant-Shami played together for India in a Test match - India lost by 10 wickets (v NZ, Wellington, 2020). — Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) June 17, 2021 × Siraj should have played instead of jadeja because of English conditions, everything else looks perfect 👍 — 🏌️ (@Plant_Warrior) June 17, 2021 × No siraj seriously 🤦🏿‍♂️🙄 — 🚜 Karan Gill ☬ (@JATTLANDPB11) June 17, 2021 ×

Cricket: Twitter erupts as Team India announce their playing XI for WTC final

With less than 24 hours to go for the World Test Championship final, photos of the pitch that will be for the match has gone viral on Twitter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a>

Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull shared the first glimpse of the pitch that will be used in the World Test Championship finals. He took to Twitter and tweeted: "Just 1 more sleep. @ICC WTC final with @BLACKCAPS and @BCCI. No need to mow that I don’t think @DineshKarthik." Doull also shared a photograph of the pitch.&nbsp;

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Just 1 more sleep. <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> WTC final with <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> . No need to mow that I don’t think <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DineshKarthik</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BringItOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BringItOn</a> <a href="https://t.co/nnfW9qr5vY">pic.twitter.com/nnfW9qr5vY</a>
— Simon Doull (@Sdoull) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sdoull/status/1405465329585770496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The pitch in the picture had a good cover of grass on it and the curators will mow it on the Day 1 of the Test. However, the weather in Southampton will play a crucial role in the match. A sunny day will mean less swing and turn, whereas, overcast conditions will favour the pacers' swing.&nbsp;

Earlier, Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee said that he is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.

"Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo.

"For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch.

"It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

With less than 24 hours to go for the World Test Championship final, photos of the pitch that will be for the match has gone viral on Twitter. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull shared the first glimpse of the pitch that will be used in the World Test Championship finals.

With less than 24 hours to go for the World Test Championship final, photos of the pitch that will be for the match has gone viral on Twitter. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull shared the first glimpse of the pitch that will be used in the World Test Championship finals. He took to Twitter and tweeted: "Just 1 more sleep. @ICC WTC final with @BLACKCAPS and @BCCI. No need to mow that I don’t think @DineshKarthik." Doull also shared a photograph of the pitch. Just 1 more sleep. @ICC WTC final with @BLACKCAPS and @BCCI . No need to mow that I don’t think @DineshKarthik #BringItOn pic.twitter.com/nnfW9qr5vY — Simon Doull (@Sdoull) June 17, 2021 × The pitch in the picture had a good cover of grass on it and the curators will mow it on the Day 1 of the Test. However, the weather in Southampton will play a crucial role in the match. A sunny day will mean less swing and turn, whereas, overcast conditions will favour the pacers' swing. Earlier, Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee said that he is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. "Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo. "For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch. "It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

Cricket: 'Just 1 more sleep': Simon Doull reveals first look of the pitch for WTC final

Team India and New Zealand will clash against each other in World Test Championship final that will be played on Friday at the Rose&nbsp;Bowl in Southampton. Both teams will be looking to lift the Test Championship Mace and take home a cash price of US$ 1.6 million. Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a>

<h2>Here's when, where and how you will be able to watch the live streaming and telecast of the IND&nbsp;vs NZ WTC Final 2021 match:</h2>

<h2>What time will India vs New Zealand WTC Final 2021 match start?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand World Test Championship final 2021 match between India and New Zealand will start at 3:30 PM IST, while IND&nbsp;vs NZ WTC Final toss will take place at 3 PM IST.

<h2>Where will you be able to watch India vs New Zealand WTC Final 2021 live broadcast?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand World Test Championship final 2021 match between India and New Zealand will be telecast live in English on Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 HD, and in Hindi on Star Sports 1 Hindi and Star Sports 1 Hindi HD.

<h2>How to watch India vs New Zealand WTC Final 2021 live streaming, online?</h2>

The live streaming of India vs New Zealand World Test Championship final 2021 will be available on Hotstar, while the live match will also be available on the Jio TV app.

Team India and New Zealand will clash against each other in World Test Championship final that will be played on Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Both teams will be looking to lift the Test Championship Mace and take home a cash price of US$ 1.

Team India and New Zealand will clash against each other in World Test Championship final that will be played on Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Both teams will be looking to lift the Test Championship Mace and take home a cash price of US$ 1.6 million. Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI Here's when, where and how you will be able to watch the live streaming and telecast of the IND vs NZ WTC Final 2021 match: What time will India vs New Zealand WTC Final 2021 match start? The India vs New Zealand World Test Championship final 2021 match between India and New Zealand will start at 3:30 PM IST, while IND vs NZ WTC Final toss will take place at 3 PM IST. Where will you be able to watch India vs New Zealand WTC Final 2021 live broadcast? The India vs New Zealand World Test Championship final 2021 match between India and New Zealand will be telecast live in English on Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 HD, and in Hindi on Star Sports 1 Hindi and Star Sports 1 Hindi HD. How to watch India vs New Zealand WTC Final 2021 live streaming, online? The live streaming of India vs New Zealand World Test Championship final 2021 will be available on Hotstar, while the live match will also be available on the Jio TV app.

IND vs NZ, WTC Final, live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand?

Australian batsman David Warner reckons the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be won by the side who bowls better during the course of the much-awaited match, starting Friday in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

On the battle between two world-class captains and high-quality batters – Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli – Warner didn’t pick his favourite but lauded the duo for their class and quality. <o:p></o:p>

"You look at two world-class batsmen and world-class captains, both average above 50," he told India Today on eSalaamCricket.<o:p></o:p>

Warner feels while New Zealand have played two-Test series against England in the build-up to the WTC final, the conditions in Southampton will be completely different to what London and Birmingham had to offer in the rubber. He further predicted that with the Dukes ball, it is going to be a battle of the bowlers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-michael-vaughan-alastair-cook-predict-winner-of-wtc-final-between-india-and-new-zealand-392121" hreflang="en">Cricket: Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook predict winner of WTC final between India and New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

"They had the warm-up so because of that do they have a sense of what the conditions are going to be like. But we are at Southampton (for the WTC Final), which has been a spinning wicket in Tests. In ODIs, we have seen it as a hard bouncy track. So do India play two spinners? It is going to be a great battle, both teams are using a Dukes ball, so I think it is going to be a battle of the bowlers," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, former India batsman VVS Laxman had predicted that the team which manages to score big in the first innings will have an upper hand in the inaugural WTC Final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a><o:p></o:p>

"It is more about which team bats better. I think there is a lot more experience and class in the Indian team. With New Zealand, yes, they have got an exciting opener in the form of (Devon) Conway. There is experience in Ross Taylor, Tom Latham and Kane Williamson. But the Indian batting lineup has a lot of experience and talent, so I believe whichever team scores an above par total in the first innings will hold the edge," said Laxman.<o:p></o:p>

Australian batsman David Warner reckons the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be won by the side who bowls better during the course of the much-awaited match, starting Friday in Southampton.

Australian batsman David Warner reckons the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be won by the side who bowls better during the course of the much-awaited match, starting Friday in Southampton. On the battle between two world-class captains and high-quality batters – Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli – Warner didn’t pick his favourite but lauded the duo for their class and quality. "You look at two world-class batsmen and world-class captains, both average above 50," he told India Today on eSalaamCricket. Warner feels while New Zealand have played two-Test series against England in the build-up to the WTC final, the conditions in Southampton will be completely different to what London and Birmingham had to offer in the rubber. He further predicted that with the Dukes ball, it is going to be a battle of the bowlers. ALSO READ: Cricket: Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook predict winner of WTC final between India and New Zealand "They had the warm-up so because of that do they have a sense of what the conditions are going to be like. But we are at Southampton (for the WTC Final), which has been a spinning wicket in Tests. In ODIs, we have seen it as a hard bouncy track. So do India play two spinners? It is going to be a great battle, both teams are using a Dukes ball, so I think it is going to be a battle of the bowlers," he said. Earlier, former India batsman VVS Laxman had predicted that the team which manages to score big in the first innings will have an upper hand in the inaugural WTC Final. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI "It is more about which team bats better. I think there is a lot more experience and class in the Indian team. With New Zealand, yes, they have got an exciting opener in the form of (Devon) Conway. There is experience in Ross Taylor, Tom Latham and Kane Williamson. But the Indian batting lineup has a lot of experience and talent, so I believe whichever team scores an above par total in the first innings will hold the edge," said Laxman.

Cricket: IND vs NZ - WTC Final going to be battle of bowlers, says David Warner

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have backed New Zealand to win the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship, against India, in Southampton, starting Friday. <o:p></o:p>

Vaughan and Cook agreed that New Zealand are a high-class team and well capable of playing disciplined cricket with both bat and ball for long periods in the longest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

"I fancy New Zealand. I know I'm going to get absolute pelters on social media for going against India. But the way New Zealand played in the two Tests against England, I think they're going to do it. They are a high-class cricket team - I like every aspect of their game," Vaughan told 'BBC'.<o:p></o:p>

"New Zealand play long periods of disciplined cricket, with bat and ball. They bat with a great maturity and read the situation perfectly.<o:p></o:p>

"If you analyse Test cricket, generally it is the side that are able to cover all the bases the longest that wins, and New Zealand are able to do that because they have a very skillful bowling attack," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Ageas Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a><o:p></o:p>

While India are heading into the WTC final without any match practice, England have played a two-Test series against England, winning it 1-0. Cook reckons that New Zealand’s match sharpness will help them get a favourable result in the WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"New Zealand are going to win. They're two matches further into match-sharpness after the series win against England - they're used to playing under pressure and in English conditions."<o:p></o:p>

"The only thing they've got to deal with is the selection question - and getting the balance of the side right. I hope they go in with Ajaz Patel, the left-arm spinner.<o:p></o:p>

"But that means one of their big four seam bowlers - Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner or Matt Henry - who have done such a good job for them, isn't going to play," he added.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have backed New Zealand to win the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship, against India, in Southampton, starting Friday.

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have backed New Zealand to win the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship, against India, in Southampton, starting Friday. Vaughan and Cook agreed that New Zealand are a high-class team and well capable of playing disciplined cricket with both bat and ball for long periods in the longest format of the game. "I fancy New Zealand. I know I'm going to get absolute pelters on social media for going against India. But the way New Zealand played in the two Tests against England, I think they're going to do it. They are a high-class cricket team - I like every aspect of their game," Vaughan told 'BBC'. "New Zealand play long periods of disciplined cricket, with bat and ball. They bat with a great maturity and read the situation perfectly. "If you analyse Test cricket, generally it is the side that are able to cover all the bases the longest that wins, and New Zealand are able to do that because they have a very skillful bowling attack," he added. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Ageas Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI While India are heading into the WTC final without any match practice, England have played a two-Test series against England, winning it 1-0. Cook reckons that New Zealand’s match sharpness will help them get a favourable result in the WTC final. "New Zealand are going to win. They're two matches further into match-sharpness after the series win against England - they're used to playing under pressure and in English conditions." "The only thing they've got to deal with is the selection question - and getting the balance of the side right. I hope they go in with Ajaz Patel, the left-arm spinner. "But that means one of their big four seam bowlers - Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner or Matt Henry - who have done such a good job for them, isn't going to play," he added.

Cricket: Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook predict winner of WTC final between India and New Zealand

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash.<o:p></o:p>

India have lost just one series in the WTC cycle, against Zealand, and would be looking to turn the tables when they take on the Black Caps in the final on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

However, the weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ravindra-jadeja-just-away-46-runs-from-entering-an-elite-list-in-test-cricket-391980" hreflang="en">WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Ahead of the WTC Final, let us take a look at the day-wise weather forecast in Southampton: <o:p></o:p></h2>

Day 1-June 18<o:p></o:p>

The weather is predicted to be overcast on Day 1 with spells of showers and thunderstorms. The play is likely to be affected by the weather and the match might lose a few overs. <o:p></o:p>

Day 2- June 19<o:p></o:p>

The weather conditions on Day 2 will gradually improve. While it is expected to remain overcast, not much rain is anticipated by the experts. However, with fickle English conditions, one can never predict when rain gods decide to come into the play. <o:p></o:p>

Day 3- June 20<o:p></o:p>

Plenty of rain is expected on Day 3 with windy conditions as well. While overs are expected to be lost on Day 3, pacers will enjoy the play if they get some cricket. <o:p></o:p>

Day 4- June 21<o:p></o:p>

Partly cloudy conditions are expected on Day 4 and it will be much better than Day 3. While no rain is expected, overcast conditions might assist the pacers again, making it difficult for batters.<o:p></o:p>

Day 5- June 22<o:p></o:p>

Cloudy conditions with a spell of showers in the morning and afternoon are predicted. While overs are likely to be lost on Day 5, the players would be eager to take the field in the evening as the forecast suggests there will be a clear sky after a passage of rain in the afternoon. <o:p></o:p>

Day 6- June 23 (Reserve Day)<o:p></o:p>

If the match moves to the reserve day, the weather is expected to partly sunny and fans could expect the match to be continued without any substantial delay.<o:p></o:p>

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash.

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash. India have lost just one series in the WTC cycle, against Zealand, and would be looking to turn the tables when they take on the Black Caps in the final on Friday. However, the weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match. ALSO READ: WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket Ahead of the WTC Final, let us take a look at the day-wise weather forecast in Southampton: Day 1-June 18 The weather is predicted to be overcast on Day 1 with spells of showers and thunderstorms. The play is likely to be affected by the weather and the match might lose a few overs. Day 2- June 19 The weather conditions on Day 2 will gradually improve. While it is expected to remain overcast, not much rain is anticipated by the experts. However, with fickle English conditions, one can never predict when rain gods decide to come into the play. Day 3- June 20 Plenty of rain is expected on Day 3 with windy conditions as well. While overs are expected to be lost on Day 3, pacers will enjoy the play if they get some cricket. Day 4- June 21 Partly cloudy conditions are expected on Day 4 and it will be much better than Day 3. While no rain is expected, overcast conditions might assist the pacers again, making it difficult for batters. Day 5- June 22 Cloudy conditions with a spell of showers in the morning and afternoon are predicted. While overs are likely to be lost on Day 5, the players would be eager to take the field in the evening as the forecast suggests there will be a clear sky after a passage of rain in the afternoon. Day 6- June 23 (Reserve Day) If the match moves to the reserve day, the weather is expected to partly sunny and fans could expect the match to be continued without any substantial delay.

Cricket: WTC Final, India vs New Zealand: Day-wise weather forecast as rain threat looms in Southampton

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been crucial for Team India. The Gujarat-based cricketer has contributed in every aspect. He has been a threat to the opposition with both, the bat and ball.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-finals-jasprit-bumrah-on-the-cusp-of-breaking-kapil-devs-record-in-tests-391964" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Jasprit Bumrah on the cusp of breaking Kapil Dev's record in Tests</a>

Jadeja's batting skills have drastically increased in recent years. In the last three years, Jadeja has had an average of 55.57 in Tests. The all-rounder has smashed crucial half-centuries and centuries for Team India.&nbsp;

The all-rounder shined in the last time India took on New Zealand in an ICC event. He smashed a crucial half-century in the semifinal clash against the BlackCaps. However, it was not enough to save the match for India.&nbsp;

Jadeja is set to enter an elite list as he heads into the World Test Championship final. The all-rounder is set to become one of the few cricketers to have scored over 2000 runs and taken more than 200 wickets in the format.

Ravindra Jadeja, who already has 220 wickets in Tests, is just 46 runs away from the 2000-run mark.&nbsp;

Also, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is on the cusp of breaking World Cup-winning captain Kapil's Dev long-term record of fastest to the 100-wicket mark for India in terms of pacers.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old has 83 wickets in his pocket in just 19 Test matches he played, whereas, Kapil Dev, who currently holds the record, had reached 100 test wickets in 25 matches.&nbsp;

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been crucial for Team India. The Gujarat-based cricketer has contributed in every aspect. He has been a threat to the opposition with both, the bat and ball.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been crucial for Team India. The Gujarat-based cricketer has contributed in every aspect. He has been a threat to the opposition with both, the bat and ball. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Jasprit Bumrah on the cusp of breaking Kapil Dev's record in Tests Jadeja's batting skills have drastically increased in recent years. In the last three years, Jadeja has had an average of 55.57 in Tests. The all-rounder has smashed crucial half-centuries and centuries for Team India. The all-rounder shined in the last time India took on New Zealand in an ICC event. He smashed a crucial half-century in the semifinal clash against the BlackCaps. However, it was not enough to save the match for India. Jadeja is set to enter an elite list as he heads into the World Test Championship final. The all-rounder is set to become one of the few cricketers to have scored over 2000 runs and taken more than 200 wickets in the format. Ravindra Jadeja, who already has 220 wickets in Tests, is just 46 runs away from the 2000-run mark. Also, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is on the cusp of breaking World Cup-winning captain Kapil's Dev long-term record of fastest to the 100-wicket mark for India in terms of pacers. The 27-year-old has 83 wickets in his pocket in just 19 Test matches he played, whereas, Kapil Dev, who currently holds the record, had reached 100 test wickets in 25 matches.

WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket

India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that he would play his natural game in the much-anticipated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand, beginning June 18 in Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

When asked how he takes criticism when representing India on the international stage, Rahane said that he always plays for the team and is happy to take criticism as long as he is contributing to the Indian team.<o:p></o:p>

"I will be playing my natural game. Winning is really important whether I score a hundred or not. I don't want to put too much pressure on myself and even if my 30 or 40 is valuable for the team, I am happy. I am happy to take criticism. I feel it's because of the criticism I'm here. I always want to give my best whether people criticise me or not," said Rahane during a virtual press conference. <o:p></o:p>

"I don't really think about criticism. If people criticise me, that's their thing, and that's their job. I cannot control all these things. For me, I always focus on controllable, putting my best foot forward, working hard, and following my process and the result follows,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-finals-jasprit-bumrah-on-the-cusp-of-breaking-kapil-devs-record-in-tests-391964" hreflang="en">WTC Finals: Jasprit Bumrah on the cusp of breaking Kapil Dev's record in Tests</a><o:p></o:p>

The Indian side has a blend of youth and experience. While the experienced players have bailed out India numerous times in the WTC cycle, the youngsters have stepped in whenever they have been asked to win matches for their country. However, with WTC final being a one-off Test, Rahane reckoned that it would be important to adapt mentally and be consistent during the course of the Test match.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;"'It's just a mental thing. If we can switch mentally and adapt, it's important. Yes one-off, we have to take it as another game, not as a final or anything. We just want to give our best, play good cricket, be consistent in the five days." <o:p></o:p>

"Personally, I am not telling them anything. They know their game-plan. It's about giving them freedom, backing them, believing in their abilities. We don't want any kind of confusion," he added. <o:p></o:p>

"I like to be in the present. I know the conditions. It's about being in the moment, adjusting to the conditions. Also, me being the highest scorer doesn't matter now. It's past. I just don't want to put extra pressure and would want to play freely," he added. <o:p></o:p>

India squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj. (ANI)<o:p></o:p>

India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that he would play his natural game in the much-anticipated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand, beginning June 18 in Southampton.

India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that he would play his natural game in the much-anticipated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand, beginning June 18 in Southampton. When asked how he takes criticism when representing India on the international stage, Rahane said that he always plays for the team and is happy to take criticism as long as he is contributing to the Indian team. "I will be playing my natural game. Winning is really important whether I score a hundred or not. I don't want to put too much pressure on myself and even if my 30 or 40 is valuable for the team, I am happy. I am happy to take criticism. I feel it's because of the criticism I'm here. I always want to give my best whether people criticise me or not," said Rahane during a virtual press conference. "I don't really think about criticism. If people criticise me, that's their thing, and that's their job. I cannot control all these things. For me, I always focus on controllable, putting my best foot forward, working hard, and following my process and the result follows,” he added. ALSO READ: WTC Finals: Jasprit Bumrah on the cusp of breaking Kapil Dev's record in Tests The Indian side has a blend of youth and experience. While the experienced players have bailed out India numerous times in the WTC cycle, the youngsters have stepped in whenever they have been asked to win matches for their country. However, with WTC final being a one-off Test, Rahane reckoned that it would be important to adapt mentally and be consistent during the course of the Test match. "'It's just a mental thing. If we can switch mentally and adapt, it's important. Yes one-off, we have to take it as another game, not as a final or anything. We just want to give our best, play good cricket, be consistent in the five days." "Personally, I am not telling them anything. They know their game-plan. It's about giving them freedom, backing them, believing in their abilities. We don't want any kind of confusion," he added. "I like to be in the present. I know the conditions. It's about being in the moment, adjusting to the conditions. Also, me being the highest scorer doesn't matter now. It's past. I just don't want to put extra pressure and would want to play freely," he added. India squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj. (ANI)

Cricket: Don't want to put extra pressure, want to play freely - Ajinkya Rahane ahead of WTC Final

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday. Manjrekar left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ishant Sharma as he went with an extra batsman in the line-up.<o:p></o:p>

“I’m assuming you have typical English conditions. I’m assuming there will be a mixture of sun and cloudy cover throughout the five days of the Test match if it goes the distance. So, I’m picking the team accordingly," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

Manjrekar went with Ravichandran Ashwin as his sole spinner for the WTC final while combining the pace troika of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.<o:p></o:p>

The former India batsman backed Hanuma Vihari, who picked up an injury during the Sydney Test in Australia earlier this year, in a bid to reward him for his heroics in the match. In Manjrekar’s team, Rishabh Pant bats at number seven as he said he wants the batting line-up to run deep given the lack of practice India have had in the build-up to the WTC final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a><o:p></o:p>

“Going to have Hanuma Vihari reward him for his brilliant innings before he got injured," Manjrekar said. “India will need somebody with more compact defensive technique because the guys at the top of the order, barring (Cheteshwar) Pujara, aren’t those kinds. So I will have Hanuma Vihari at number 6. (Rishabh)Pant at 7, considering India have hardly had any practice game. I just want to make sure the batting runs deep."<o:p></o:p>

“Want Siraj, the swing bowler to be brought into the equation, and the last time Siraj bowled overseas in Australia, got a five-wicket haul. Hard to leave a bowler like him out. You will be tempted to think of Siraj because when you look at Shami, Bumrah and Ishant, they are more seam bowlers, hit-the-deck kind of bowler. Siraj might offer something different. I would go with Siraj, but India might play Ishant for obvious reasons," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rohit-sharma-understands-when-to-press-accelerator-says-sachin-tendulkar-391833" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar</a><o:p></o:p>

Sanjay Manjrekar’s India playing XI for WTC Final: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj<o:p></o:p>

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday. Manjrekar left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ishant Sharma as he went with an extra batsman in the line-up. “I’m assuming you have typical English conditions. I’m assuming there will be a mixture of sun and cloudy cover throughout the five days of the Test match if it goes the distance. So, I’m picking the team accordingly," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Manjrekar went with Ravichandran Ashwin as his sole spinner for the WTC final while combining the pace troika of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj. The former India batsman backed Hanuma Vihari, who picked up an injury during the Sydney Test in Australia earlier this year, in a bid to reward him for his heroics in the match. In Manjrekar’s team, Rishabh Pant bats at number seven as he said he wants the batting line-up to run deep given the lack of practice India have had in the build-up to the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship “Going to have Hanuma Vihari reward him for his brilliant innings before he got injured," Manjrekar said. “India will need somebody with more compact defensive technique because the guys at the top of the order, barring (Cheteshwar) Pujara, aren’t those kinds. So I will have Hanuma Vihari at number 6. (Rishabh)Pant at 7, considering India have hardly had any practice game. I just want to make sure the batting runs deep." “Want Siraj, the swing bowler to be brought into the equation, and the last time Siraj bowled overseas in Australia, got a five-wicket haul. Hard to leave a bowler like him out. You will be tempted to think of Siraj because when you look at Shami, Bumrah and Ishant, they are more seam bowlers, hit-the-deck kind of bowler. Siraj might offer something different. I would go with Siraj, but India might play Ishant for obvious reasons," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar Sanjay Manjrekar’s India playing XI for WTC Final: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar picks his India playing XI for WTC Final, leaves out Jadeja, Ishant

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22. <o:p></o:p>

Citing the weather conditions in Southampton, Gavaskar said that pitch will “definitely be dry” and assist spinners making Ashwin and Jadeja surety in India playing XI. <o:p></o:p>

“In Southampton, it’s been boiling hot over the last few days so the pitch will definitely be dry and help spin as the match progresses, so yes both Ashwin and Jadeja will play," Gavaskar told PTI in an interview.<o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar wants both Jadeja and Ashwin in the playing XI not just because of their bowling abilities but also for the batting depth the duo provides to the Indian team in the longest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

“That (Ashwin and Jadeja together) also gives depth to the batting as well as give a fine balance to the bowling attack. For the series later (vs England) much will depend on the weather and pitch conditions."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a><o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar is not bothered about India’s lack of practice ahead of the WTC final and England series as he said that the team has a good blend of youth and experience with players who have played in English conditions in the past. <o:p></o:p>

“(In) today’s tours there are barely one or two practice games before the Test series begins and the Indian team has had intra-squad matches so they have had that practice.<o:p></o:p>

“The team is a good blend of youth and experience and most of the players have been to England several times so they know the conditions and what to expect," said the former India captain.<o:p></o:p>

This will also be India’s chance to win their first ICC trophy under the leadership of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The squads:</h2>

India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Citing the weather conditions in Southampton, Gavaskar said that pitch will “definitely be dry” and assist spinners making Ashwin and Jadeja surety in India playing XI. “In Southampton, it’s been boiling hot over the last few days so the pitch will definitely be dry and help spin as the match progresses, so yes both Ashwin and Jadeja will play," Gavaskar told PTI in an interview. Gavaskar wants both Jadeja and Ashwin in the playing XI not just because of their bowling abilities but also for the batting depth the duo provides to the Indian team in the longest format of the game. “That (Ashwin and Jadeja together) also gives depth to the batting as well as give a fine balance to the bowling attack. For the series later (vs England) much will depend on the weather and pitch conditions." ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship Gavaskar is not bothered about India’s lack of practice ahead of the WTC final and England series as he said that the team has a good blend of youth and experience with players who have played in English conditions in the past. “(In) today’s tours there are barely one or two practice games before the Test series begins and the Indian team has had intra-squad matches so they have had that practice. “The team is a good blend of youth and experience and most of the players have been to England several times so they know the conditions and what to expect," said the former India captain. This will also be India’s chance to win their first ICC trophy under the leadership of Virat Kohli. The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: 'Pitch will definitely spin' - Sunil Gavaskar wants both Ashwin and Jadeja in India playing XI for WTC Final

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final.

Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day.&nbsp;

He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here.&nbsp;

“If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today.

“I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-looking-forward-to-the-challenge-ross-taylor-eager-to-face-very-tough-opposition-india-391692" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India</a>

While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th&nbsp;and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead.

Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing.

“I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.”&nbsp;

Pujara looking forward to WTC Final:&nbsp;For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final.&nbsp;

And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match.

He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work.

“It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

“It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.”&nbsp;

The squads:

India:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand:&nbsp;Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee,&nbsp;Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton. And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day. He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here. “If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today. “I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.” ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling. The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead. Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing. “I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.” Pujara looking forward to WTC Final: For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final. And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match. He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work. “It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.” The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday.<o:p></o:p>

Taylor quipped that India have been the number one side for&nbsp;long and are a very tough opponent, no matter what side they play. <o:p></o:p>

“You go through the Indian line-up, and there are just world-class players throughout. Whatever side they decide to go with, it will have world-class players. India has been a world No. 1 side for a long time. They will be very tough opposition,” Taylor said during a media interaction on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand head into the WTC final after playing a two-Test series against England, which they won 1-0. Taylor said that it was an ideal preparation to take on England and get a hang of the conditions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a><o:p></o:p>

“It was an ideal preparation, having played two Test matches against England in these conditions. Cannot think of anything better,” Taylor said.<o:p></o:p>

However, Taylor praised the Indian bowling attack for taking on Australia on their home soil as he said it was a great watch for New Zealanders to see some world-class bowling on Aussie soil. <o:p></o:p>

“But India has been a fantastic side for a long period of time -- not only their batters, but also their bowlers. They won a series against Australia in its home summer, and it was great to watch. (It was) nice for the New Zealand public to see some world-class bowling against a very good Australian attack. They have a fair lot of success here as well. I am sure in the warm-up games or bowling at the nets, they would have enjoyed the swing and the bounce that the Dukes ball has. We are looking forward to the challenge,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-announces-15-member-squad-for-wtc-final-against-new-zealand-391665" hreflang="en">Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

Taylor revealed that he would have retired had New Zealand won the ICC World Cup 2019. The Black Caps haven’t won an ICC event since 2000 but are looking forward to ending the long wait. <o:p></o:p>

“It is disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. I guess, when you lose, you feel that it might be the last time you are playing a World Cup final, so it is nice for me to be here. If we did win that game, I might have retired after that. I am glad I did not, and I am here today,” he said

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday.

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday. Taylor quipped that India have been the number one side for long and are a very tough opponent, no matter what side they play. “You go through the Indian line-up, and there are just world-class players throughout. Whatever side they decide to go with, it will have world-class players. India has been a world No. 1 side for a long time. They will be very tough opposition,” Taylor said during a media interaction on Tuesday. New Zealand head into the WTC final after playing a two-Test series against England, which they won 1-0. Taylor said that it was an ideal preparation to take on England and get a hang of the conditions. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It was an ideal preparation, having played two Test matches against England in these conditions. Cannot think of anything better,” Taylor said. However, Taylor praised the Indian bowling attack for taking on Australia on their home soil as he said it was a great watch for New Zealanders to see some world-class bowling on Aussie soil. “But India has been a fantastic side for a long period of time -- not only their batters, but also their bowlers. They won a series against Australia in its home summer, and it was great to watch. (It was) nice for the New Zealand public to see some world-class bowling against a very good Australian attack. They have a fair lot of success here as well. I am sure in the warm-up games or bowling at the nets, they would have enjoyed the swing and the bounce that the Dukes ball has. We are looking forward to the challenge,” he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand Taylor revealed that he would have retired had New Zealand won the ICC World Cup 2019. The Black Caps haven’t won an ICC event since 2000 but are looking forward to ending the long wait. “It is disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. I guess, when you lose, you feel that it might be the last time you are playing a World Cup final, so it is nice for me to be here. If we did win that game, I might have retired after that. I am glad I did not, and I am here today,” he said

WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday said that the World Test Championship Final means a lot to him personally while adding that the WTC format of playing the longest format of the game will help Test cricket survive. <o:p></o:p>

India and New Zealand lock horns in the WTC Final, starting June 18 in Southampton. With Pujara playing just one format for the Indian team, he said the WTC Final is equivalent to playing a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. <o:p></o:p>

"Personally, it means a lot to me This is the first time we are in a WTC final. We have worked hard over a period of time. It's just like playing in a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. Test cricket needs to survive, and a WTC format helps where every Test, every series is important. If we win, then many youngsters would want to play the Test format and be part of the final when the next cycle comes around," said Pujara.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-in-wtc-final-because-of-our-bowlers-cheteshwar-pujara-lauds-indian-bowling-attack-391673" hreflang="en">We are in WTC Final because of our bowlers: Cheteshwar Pujara lauds Indian bowling attack</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"It is a disadvantage, but this is something we can't control. These are challenging times in the world because of the pandemic, and you cannot have the luxury for extra preparation time. But the most important part is the game is still going on and that we're playing a final. Yes, preparation time is a bit of a disadvantage maybe, but if you're ready for the challenge, even if circumstances aren't favourable, you'd do well. We're confident as a team. Maybe a few extra days of preparation would've helped, but we can't complain. We're ready," said Pujara.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-preview-long-wait-comes-to-an-end-as-india-women-face-england-women-in-one-off-test-391636" hreflang="en">Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test</a><o:p></o:p>

When asked about the playing conditions in Southampton, Pujara said: "We've utilised the time really well. Even during the centre-wicket simulation, we had some practice wickets available. When in the middle, you want to ensure things you're working on in the nets to come along." <o:p></o:p>

"For bowlers, it was important to get used to the workload again. They would have bowled 14-15 overs in the entire game, which is very important for their workload. For the batsmen, it was about spending time in the middle, having the discipline of leaving balls, playing shots you would in a game. So being in the middle and having a match scenarios is very important," he added. <o:p></o:p>

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday said that the World Test Championship Final means a lot to him personally while adding that the WTC format of playing the longest format of the game will help Test cricket survive.

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday said that the World Test Championship Final means a lot to him personally while adding that the WTC format of playing the longest format of the game will help Test cricket survive. India and New Zealand lock horns in the WTC Final, starting June 18 in Southampton. With Pujara playing just one format for the Indian team, he said the WTC Final is equivalent to playing a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. "Personally, it means a lot to me This is the first time we are in a WTC final. We have worked hard over a period of time. It's just like playing in a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. Test cricket needs to survive, and a WTC format helps where every Test, every series is important. If we win, then many youngsters would want to play the Test format and be part of the final when the next cycle comes around," said Pujara. ALSO READ: We are in WTC Final because of our bowlers: Cheteshwar Pujara lauds Indian bowling attack "It is a disadvantage, but this is something we can't control. These are challenging times in the world because of the pandemic, and you cannot have the luxury for extra preparation time. But the most important part is the game is still going on and that we're playing a final. Yes, preparation time is a bit of a disadvantage maybe, but if you're ready for the challenge, even if circumstances aren't favourable, you'd do well. We're confident as a team. Maybe a few extra days of preparation would've helped, but we can't complain. We're ready," said Pujara. ALSO READ: Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test When asked about the playing conditions in Southampton, Pujara said: "We've utilised the time really well. Even during the centre-wicket simulation, we had some practice wickets available. When in the middle, you want to ensure things you're working on in the nets to come along." "For bowlers, it was important to get used to the workload again. They would have bowled 14-15 overs in the entire game, which is very important for their workload. For the batsmen, it was about spending time in the middle, having the discipline of leaving balls, playing shots you would in a game. So being in the middle and having a match scenarios is very important," he added.

Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. <o:p></o:p>

The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rahul-dravid-will-be-indias-coach-for-sri-lanka-tour-confirms-sourav-ganguly-391621" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India squad for World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rohit Sharma<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Shubman Gill<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ajinkya Rahane</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Cheteshwar Pujara</o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Hanuma Vihari<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rishabh Pant<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Wriddhiman Saha<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">R Ashwin<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ravindra Jadeja<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jasprit Bumrah<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammad Shami<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Umesh Yadav<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammed Siraj</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Ishant Sharma</o:p></li>
</ul>

However, given the quality of players at the helm, Indian management will be having some headaches in a bid to finalise the playing XI for the much-awaited WTC Final against New Zealand.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly India squad for World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand: Virat Kohli Rohit Sharma Shubman Gill Ajinkya Rahane Cheteshwar Pujara Hanuma Vihari Rishabh Pant Wriddhiman Saha R Ashwin Ravindra Jadeja Jasprit Bumrah Mohammad Shami Umesh Yadav Mohammed Siraj Ishant Sharma However, given the quality of players at the helm, Indian management will be having some headaches in a bid to finalise the playing XI for the much-awaited WTC Final against New Zealand.

Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22.<o:p></o:p>

The commentary panel for the inaugural ICC WTC Final will include stalwarts of the game, experienced broadcasters, and fresh, young voices. ICC Hall of Famers and Test match legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kumar Sangakkara will be joined by experienced broadcasters Nasser Hussain, Simon Doull, Isa Guha, Ian Bishop and Michael Atherton. Bringing fresh perspective on the two finalists will be former New Zealand player-turned-batting coach Craig McMillan and India’s Dinesh Karthik.<o:p></o:p>

There has been immense anticipation surrounding the WTC final with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the ICC Test Mace after winning the summit clash at the Rose Bowl. <o:p></o:p>

The star-studded commentary panel will ensure the fans get the proper insights into the game in what has been tipped as a match for ages between the two top Test-playing nations.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-vvs-laxman-suggests-changes-to-make-world-test-championship-more-interesting-391583" hreflang="en">Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting</a><o:p></o:p>

Commenting on the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final, Dinesh Karthik said: “The inaugural WTC Final is the much-anticipated pinnacle event in Test cricket, and I am looking forward to an exciting match between India and New Zealand. There is so much at stake here, both teams look evenly matched and what makes it even more interesting is that they are going to be playing at a neutral venue. It’s an honour to work as a broadcaster on this historic event.”<o:p></o:p>

Nasser Hussain added: “We have seen some fantastic Test cricket being played in the last two years as part of the World Test Championship, some newer heroes of the game have emerged and the Test format has seen increased interest across the globe, especially over the last few months. The inaugural WTC final will be an exciting contest between two very worthy opponents. I am looking forward to this contest.” <o:p></o:p>

Kumar Sangakkara added: “India and New Zealand have both earned their place in the World Test Championship Final. I am looking forward to some glorious cricket from both sides and wish the teams the very best in this highly anticipated tournament finale.”<o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22. The commentary panel for the inaugural ICC WTC Final will include stalwarts of the game, experienced broadcasters, and fresh, young voices. ICC Hall of Famers and Test match legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kumar Sangakkara will be joined by experienced broadcasters Nasser Hussain, Simon Doull, Isa Guha, Ian Bishop and Michael Atherton. Bringing fresh perspective on the two finalists will be former New Zealand player-turned-batting coach Craig McMillan and India’s Dinesh Karthik. There has been immense anticipation surrounding the WTC final with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the ICC Test Mace after winning the summit clash at the Rose Bowl. The star-studded commentary panel will ensure the fans get the proper insights into the game in what has been tipped as a match for ages between the two top Test-playing nations. ALSO READ: Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting Commenting on the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final, Dinesh Karthik said: “The inaugural WTC Final is the much-anticipated pinnacle event in Test cricket, and I am looking forward to an exciting match between India and New Zealand. There is so much at stake here, both teams look evenly matched and what makes it even more interesting is that they are going to be playing at a neutral venue. It’s an honour to work as a broadcaster on this historic event.” Nasser Hussain added: “We have seen some fantastic Test cricket being played in the last two years as part of the World Test Championship, some newer heroes of the game have emerged and the Test format has seen increased interest across the globe, especially over the last few months. The inaugural WTC final will be an exciting contest between two very worthy opponents. I am looking forward to this contest.” Kumar Sangakkara added: “India and New Zealand have both earned their place in the World Test Championship Final. I am looking forward to some glorious cricket from both sides and wish the teams the very best in this highly anticipated tournament finale.”

Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch. <o:p></o:p>

Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.<o:p></o:p>

"Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

"For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch.<o:p></o:p>

"It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kathryn-bryce-mushfiqur-rahim-voted-icc-players-of-the-month-for-may-2021-391336" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

With both India and New Zealand having high-quality pace attacks, Lee intends to keep them in the match at all times.<o:p></o:p>

"Pace just makes red-ball cricket exciting, I'm a cricket fan and I want to produce a pitch where the cricket lovers have to watch every ball in case they miss something, be that some class batting or an amazing spell of bowling.<o:p></o:p>

"A maiden over can be quite exciting if it's a battle of skill between both bowler and batter. So, yeah, if we can get some pace and bounce in the pitch, but not too one-sided towards seam movement, we'll be happy," he said.<o:p></o:p>

However, Lee added that due to the forecast being fine for cricket, the pitches tend to dry out quickly and hence, bringing the spinners into the game. While India have two world class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, New Zealand are thin on this department.<o:p></o:p>

"As I said, the forecast is looking okay, the pitches dry out very quickly here as we do have some sand mixed into our cricket loam, which helped it hold together when the pitches were re-laid some 10 years ago, but it can help it spin as well.<o:p></o:p>

"To get to that point we'll need the seamers to bowl, some runs scored, and make some rough along the way. The pitch will always get talked about a lot, but you need the players to play their part to make a good game," the curator said.<o:p></o:p>

"...so if we produce a pitch that allows the players to show their skills at the top level and we have an entertaining game for the fans, we will be more than satisfied."<o:p></o:p>

India will look to win their first ICC trophy under the captaincy of Virat Kohli while New Zealand would be looking to pull the strings to register a win for ages.<o:p></o:p>

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch.

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch. Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. "Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo. "For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch. "It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it." ALSO READ: Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021 With both India and New Zealand having high-quality pace attacks, Lee intends to keep them in the match at all times. "Pace just makes red-ball cricket exciting, I'm a cricket fan and I want to produce a pitch where the cricket lovers have to watch every ball in case they miss something, be that some class batting or an amazing spell of bowling. "A maiden over can be quite exciting if it's a battle of skill between both bowler and batter. So, yeah, if we can get some pace and bounce in the pitch, but not too one-sided towards seam movement, we'll be happy," he said. However, Lee added that due to the forecast being fine for cricket, the pitches tend to dry out quickly and hence, bringing the spinners into the game. While India have two world class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, New Zealand are thin on this department. "As I said, the forecast is looking okay, the pitches dry out very quickly here as we do have some sand mixed into our cricket loam, which helped it hold together when the pitches were re-laid some 10 years ago, but it can help it spin as well. "To get to that point we'll need the seamers to bowl, some runs scored, and make some rough along the way. The pitch will always get talked about a lot, but you need the players to play their part to make a good game," the curator said. "...so if we produce a pitch that allows the players to show their skills at the top level and we have an entertaining game for the fans, we will be more than satisfied." India will look to win their first ICC trophy under the captaincy of Virat Kohli while New Zealand would be looking to pull the strings to register a win for ages.

Cricket: How will the pitch play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has weighed his opinion on key Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Styris has said that opener Rohit Sharma will struggle if New Zealand pacers are able to move the ball around during the WTC final citing the past frailties of ‘Hitman’ against swinging deliveries as he pointed that Rohit’s static feet movement could become troublesome for him.<o:p></o:p>

“It is pitch-dependent. I can’t stress that enough. I think if the ball is moving around then Rohit will have his struggles. We have done demonstrations after demonstrations (in the studio) about how Rohit doesn’t really move his feet a lot early in his innings. If that is the case, then the swinging ball could be a problem for him," said Styris on Star Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-world-test-championship-final-details-of-wtc-prize-money-announced-391411" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced</a><o:p></o:p>

The 45-year-old further said that the likes of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson/Colin de Grandhomme could be the operator with the new ball with Neil Wagner coming into the scene during middle-overs when Virat Kohli is expected to be on the crease. <o:p></o:p>

“There is no secret to New Zealand’s fast bowling plan if you like and that is Southee, Boult and either Jamieson or de Grandhomme will be the third seamer and they bowled till about the 22nd to 28th over with a new ball. And then Neil Wagner comes into the equation," added Styris.<o:p></o:p>

“So when you talk about Wagner, it is his ability to be aggressive and be a genuine wicket-taking option for somebody like Kohli in those middle-overs till the new ball comes around," said Styris.<o:p></o:p>

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has weighed his opinion on key Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18.

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has weighed his opinion on key Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18. Styris has said that opener Rohit Sharma will struggle if New Zealand pacers are able to move the ball around during the WTC final citing the past frailties of ‘Hitman’ against swinging deliveries as he pointed that Rohit’s static feet movement could become troublesome for him. “It is pitch-dependent. I can’t stress that enough. I think if the ball is moving around then Rohit will have his struggles. We have done demonstrations after demonstrations (in the studio) about how Rohit doesn’t really move his feet a lot early in his innings. If that is the case, then the swinging ball could be a problem for him," said Styris on Star Sports. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced The 45-year-old further said that the likes of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson/Colin de Grandhomme could be the operator with the new ball with Neil Wagner coming into the scene during middle-overs when Virat Kohli is expected to be on the crease. “There is no secret to New Zealand’s fast bowling plan if you like and that is Southee, Boult and either Jamieson or de Grandhomme will be the third seamer and they bowled till about the 22nd to 28th over with a new ball. And then Neil Wagner comes into the equation," added Styris. “So when you talk about Wagner, it is his ability to be aggressive and be a genuine wicket-taking option for somebody like Kohli in those middle-overs till the new ball comes around," said Styris. The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace.

WTC Final: Rohit to struggle against swing, Wagner could be used to target Kohli, says Styris

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said.<o:p></o:p>

The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams.<o:p></o:p>

The Blackcaps head into the summit clash with a confidence-boosting 1-0 Test series win against hosts England whereas Virat Kohli and Co continue to gear up for the match by playing an intra-squad friendly match. <o:p></o:p>

"We are not worried about that," Pujara said about New Zealand's recent Test series in England. <o:p></o:p>

"We will try and focus on these 10 to 12 days which we have for our preparation," the batsman said in a video shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-how-the-pitch-will-play-during-wtc-final-southampton-head-groundsman-reveals-details-391371" hreflang="en">Cricket: How the pitch will play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details</a><o:p></o:p>

"If we utilise these days well I feel that our team will be up for the final."<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand won the second Test in Birmingham after drawing the first Test at Lord’s.<o:p></o:p>

"When it comes to finals we will give our best and we know that our team has the potential to do well and win the Championship," Pujara said. <o:p></o:p>

Pujara, who has the experience of playing County cricket in England, said adjusting to the weather conditions will be crucial to India’s success in the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

"Playing in different conditions in a single day here is the most challenging part for a batsman because if it rains you go off the field and then suddenly it stops raining and you start again," said Pujara.<o:p></o:p>

"So there are breaks in between and this is where you need to understand and accept the challenge. Mentally you have to be strong; your concentration needs to be up to the mark."<o:p></o:p>

The World Test Championship final will bring the first-ever such cycle to an end and after that, the new cycle will begin with a five-Test series between England and India, starting from August 4.<o:p></o:p>

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said. The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams.

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said. The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams. The Blackcaps head into the summit clash with a confidence-boosting 1-0 Test series win against hosts England whereas Virat Kohli and Co continue to gear up for the match by playing an intra-squad friendly match. "We are not worried about that," Pujara said about New Zealand's recent Test series in England. "We will try and focus on these 10 to 12 days which we have for our preparation," the batsman said in a video shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) website. ALSO READ: Cricket: How the pitch will play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details "If we utilise these days well I feel that our team will be up for the final." New Zealand won the second Test in Birmingham after drawing the first Test at Lord’s. "When it comes to finals we will give our best and we know that our team has the potential to do well and win the Championship," Pujara said. Pujara, who has the experience of playing County cricket in England, said adjusting to the weather conditions will be crucial to India’s success in the WTC final. "Playing in different conditions in a single day here is the most challenging part for a batsman because if it rains you go off the field and then suddenly it stops raining and you start again," said Pujara. "So there are breaks in between and this is where you need to understand and accept the challenge. Mentally you have to be strong; your concentration needs to be up to the mark." The World Test Championship final will bring the first-ever such cycle to an end and after that, the new cycle will begin with a five-Test series between England and India, starting from August 4.

Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced a special edition intake of 10 cricket icons into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, and to coincide with the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final. The 10 legends of the game to be inducted have all made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket, and join an illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers, taking the total number to 103 as a result of this intake.

The special inductions of the ICC Hall of Fame from the following five eras join the ranks of the world’s greatest players:

<h2>EARLY CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were prior to 1918</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Aubrey Faulkner of South Africa played 25 Tests, scored 1,754 runs at 40.79, took 82 wickets at 26.58, and was one of the pioneers of the “googly” at the time. Faulkner was the only man to head both the MRF Tyres ICC Batting and Bowling rankings in Test cricket. He was one of the greatest all-rounders and later one of the best coaches. He was a part of the famous ‘googly quartet’ that so characterised South African cricket in the first decade of the 20th century and he peaked with the bat in the 1910-11 series in Australia when he made 732 runs in the five Tests.</li>
	<li>Monty Noble of Australia played 42 Tests, scored 1,997 runs at 30.25, took 121 wickets at 25.00, and was one of the greatest Australian all-rounders. He is still the fastest from that country to achieve the 1,000 run / 100 wicket Test double. He played 42 Tests, captaining his side in 15 of them, and he was a trailblazing captain, abandoning mammoth bowling spells to keep bowlers fresh. A true all-rounder, Noble was a banker and a qualified dentist outside of being a prolific cricketer of that time.</li>
</ul>

<h2>INTER-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1918-1945</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Sir Learie Constantine of West Indies played 18 Tests, scored 635 runs at 19.24, took 58 wickets at 30.10, and can be considered the first great West Indian all-rounder, playing with a flair and freedom that was decades ahead of his time. He was a champion not only amongst players but for his people too in their political and legal fight against racial discrimination. He was also the first black member of the House of Lords.</li>
	<li>Stan McCabe of Australia played 39 Tests, scored 2,748 runs at 48.21, took 36 wickets at 42.86, and was a right-handed batsman of the highest class, he played three memorable innings and defied the “Bodyline tactics” that were predominant at the time within the England camp with 187 not out at Sydney. He further struck an unbeaten 189 at Johannesburg in 1935 and then 232 in less than four hours at Nottingham in the 1938 Ashes Test. He was touted as one of the greatest batsmen of the game by his captain Sir Don Bradman.</li>
</ul>

<h2>POST-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1946-1970</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Ted Dexter of England played 62 Tests, scored 4,502 runs at 47.89, took 66 wickets at 34.93, and was a superb batsman who combined a firm defence with the ability to destroy any bowling attack off both the front and back foot. His innings of 70 in the 1963 Lord’s Test lives long in the memory of all who saw it. He was an effective partnership breaker with his medium-fast seam bowling and later in life served as England’s Chairman of Selectors and played an influential role in developing what is today’s MRF Tyres ICC Player Rankings.</li>
	<li>Vinoo Mankad of India played 44 Tests, scored 2,109 runs at 31.47, took 162 wickets at 32.32, and was an opening batsman and slow left arm orthodox bowler, known as one of India’s greatest-ever all-rounders. His most famous feat was against England at Lord's in 1952 when he scored 72 and 184 and bowled 97 overs in the match. He is one of only three cricketers to have batted in every position during his Test career. In later life, he also coached another legendary cricketer and fellow ICC Hall of Fame member from his country, Sunil Gavaskar in Mumbai, India.</li>
</ul>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"A terrific cricketer. A stylish batsman." 
 
Next to be inducted into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCHallOfFame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCHallOfFame</a> 2021 is England's Ted Dexter 👏 <a href="https://t.co/YxuupcKWzR">pic.twitter.com/YxuupcKWzR</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1404059191774355463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-seal-first-away-test-series-win-against-england-since-1999-391181" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand seal first away Test series win against England since 1999</a>

<h2>ODI ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1971-1995</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Desmond Haynes of the West Indies played 116 Tests, scored 7,487 runs at 42.29 and was one half of the most prolific opening batting partnership in Test history alongside Gordon Greenidge. He was capable of some destructive innings and combined impeccable timing with power in his stroke making and has played four ICC World Cups in that era.</li>
	<li>Bob Willis of England played 90 Tests taking 325 wickets at 25.20 and spearheaded the English bowling attack during some of their most memorable moments during this period. Standing two metres tall, he could make the ball bounce awkwardly on most pitches and possessed an excellent yorker and bouncer, both of which he used to great effect over the course of his career. His greatest triumph was the famous eight for 43 that beat Australia at Headingley in 1981 and after retirement became a popular, and often polarising member of the Sky TV commentary box.</li>
</ul>

<h2>MODERN CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were between 1996-2015</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Andy Flower of Zimbabwe played 63 Tests, scoring 4,794 runs at 51.54, took 151 catches with nine stumpings as a left-handed wicket-keeper batsmen. First Zimbabwe player to be inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. His grit, determination and will to succeed meant at one point he was ranked number 1 batsman in the world. Andy carried his country's batting for long periods, setting the record for the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper with an innings of 232 not out against India at Nagpur in 2000. Later, he became a hugely successful coach, leading England to the number 1 spot in the&nbsp;ICC Test Rankings for Men.</li>
	<li>Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka played 134 Tests, scored 12,400 runs at 57.40, took 182 catches and 20 stumpings, and was grace personified at the crease. Sangakkara ended his career as the most prolific run-scorer his country had ever known, with double-hundreds flowing from his bat with consummate ease. In 2014 he struck 319 and 105 in the same Test match against Bangladesh and in 2017 fell just 16 runs short of striking six successive centuries in first-class cricket.</li>
</ul>

The 10 icons inducted as part of this special edition were voted for by the ICC Hall of Fame Voting Academy, comprising living Hall of Fame members, a FICA representative, prominent cricket journalists and senior ICC figures.

Commenting on getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame, Ted Dexter (England) said: “Well I wasn’t completely aware of the ICC Hall of Fame until I found out I was going to be inducted, so after looking at some of the names in it and knowing that cricket deserves to have a Hall of Fame, I was really chuffed to hear the news. The names in the ICC Hall of Fame include some super players, some of whom I played with, against, and some of whom I had a lot to do with when I was working in English cricket.

“My fondest memory as a player is probably the New Year’s Ashes Test 1962/63 against the might of Benaud’s Australia. We needed almost 240 to win the match on the final day and boy did I feel good when we got over the line! That is something I will never forget.

“After my playing career, not in my wildest dreams did I think I would end up being a top administrator of the game. I thought I would get on with life after playing and build my PR business. Suddenly along came the opportunity to become Chairman of Selectors, and at the time we were expected to beat most of the emerging Test nations. I was aware that time had moved on so unless we thought differently and planned ahead, we were going to be left behind.

“There are many moments in my life in cricket of which I am very proud; as a player, an administrator and in establishing what is today’s rankings system. I also take great pride in having simplified the means of producing on-screen captions and scorecards when I was working as a television commentator, something which you take for granted when watching cricket today. My work in cricket is all very gratifying and I am really proud of everything I have achieved. Being recognized by the ICC for what I have achieved is very satisfying and knowing that I’ve been chosen by my peers and so many great names makes me blush, and I’m thrilled along with my family by this honour.”

Speaking on his induction, Desmond Haynes said: “I have played Cricket with some of the greats of the game from the West Indies who are also inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. That team from 1978 till about the 1990s was a fantastic team. As a young boy growing up in Barbados, I never dreamt that I would be one day inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. I have really come a long way and I am very happy for this honour. The journey was not smooth, I started playing cricket in a little area of St. James in Barbados where I was loved by everyone in the community, who also helped me stay out of trouble. This is also for my grandmother, my mum and my wife, all of whom supported me in my journey.”

Speaking on Vinoo Mankad’s induction, fellow ICC Hall of Fame member, Sunil Gavaskar said: “Vinoo Mankad’s legacy has been to tell the aspiring Indian cricketer to believe in oneself. He was a great proponent of self-belief. He was the one who kept saying to me that you need to keep scoring runs and keep at it. When you get a 100, let that be the knock on the selector’s door. If it is unheard, then score that double hundred and let that knock be even louder. You can have the best technique, but if you do not have the temperament to support it you will not succeed, you have to keep hanging in there and have that self-belief. That was the greatest lesson I learnt from him.”

Commenting on Bob Willis’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, his wife Lauren Clark said: “We are incredibly honoured as a family that Bob is getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame and it is sad that he is not here to accept it himself. He deserves to be here; he played 90 Tests for England and took 325 Test wickets and he worked really hard for those wickets, and we are really honoured and proud of him.”

Commenting on receiving the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, granddaughter of Monty Noble, Elizabeth Noble said: “It is a great honour for us as a family to have my grandfather, inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. We are delighted and truly humbled that his contributions to cricket have been recognized and celebrated in such a way.”

Reacting to the honour on her father being inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, daughter of Stan McCabe, Christine Hancock said: “I was thrilled when I heard about his induction, and very proud of this honour. He was a good father and we spent a lot of good times together. He was very generous and humble in the family home. He would tell me about his innings at Trent Bridge in 1938 and that while he was batting, Don Bradman told the whole team to go out onto the balcony to watch my father’s innings, telling them they’ll never see anything like it ever again! Although I didn’t see him play a lot myself, I always heard stories about him as this fluid, swashbuckling sort of player. He didn’t talk much about his cricket career at home. He would always rather be known as the father of Geoff and Chris McCabe than as a cricketer.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced a special edition intake of 10 cricket icons into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, and to coincide with the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced a special edition intake of 10 cricket icons into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, and to coincide with the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final. The 10 legends of the game to be inducted have all made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket, and join an illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers, taking the total number to 103 as a result of this intake. The special inductions of the ICC Hall of Fame from the following five eras join the ranks of the world’s greatest players: EARLY CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were prior to 1918 Aubrey Faulkner of South Africa played 25 Tests, scored 1,754 runs at 40.79, took 82 wickets at 26.58, and was one of the pioneers of the “googly” at the time. Faulkner was the only man to head both the MRF Tyres ICC Batting and Bowling rankings in Test cricket. He was one of the greatest all-rounders and later one of the best coaches. He was a part of the famous ‘googly quartet’ that so characterised South African cricket in the first decade of the 20th century and he peaked with the bat in the 1910-11 series in Australia when he made 732 runs in the five Tests. Monty Noble of Australia played 42 Tests, scored 1,997 runs at 30.25, took 121 wickets at 25.00, and was one of the greatest Australian all-rounders. He is still the fastest from that country to achieve the 1,000 run / 100 wicket Test double. He played 42 Tests, captaining his side in 15 of them, and he was a trailblazing captain, abandoning mammoth bowling spells to keep bowlers fresh. A true all-rounder, Noble was a banker and a qualified dentist outside of being a prolific cricketer of that time. INTER-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1918-1945 Sir Learie Constantine of West Indies played 18 Tests, scored 635 runs at 19.24, took 58 wickets at 30.10, and can be considered the first great West Indian all-rounder, playing with a flair and freedom that was decades ahead of his time. He was a champion not only amongst players but for his people too in their political and legal fight against racial discrimination. He was also the first black member of the House of Lords. Stan McCabe of Australia played 39 Tests, scored 2,748 runs at 48.21, took 36 wickets at 42.86, and was a right-handed batsman of the highest class, he played three memorable innings and defied the “Bodyline tactics” that were predominant at the time within the England camp with 187 not out at Sydney. He further struck an unbeaten 189 at Johannesburg in 1935 and then 232 in less than four hours at Nottingham in the 1938 Ashes Test. He was touted as one of the greatest batsmen of the game by his captain Sir Don Bradman. POST-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1946-1970 Ted Dexter of England played 62 Tests, scored 4,502 runs at 47.89, took 66 wickets at 34.93, and was a superb batsman who combined a firm defence with the ability to destroy any bowling attack off both the front and back foot. His innings of 70 in the 1963 Lord’s Test lives long in the memory of all who saw it. He was an effective partnership breaker with his medium-fast seam bowling and later in life served as England’s Chairman of Selectors and played an influential role in developing what is today’s MRF Tyres ICC Player Rankings. Vinoo Mankad of India played 44 Tests, scored 2,109 runs at 31.47, took 162 wickets at 32.32, and was an opening batsman and slow left arm orthodox bowler, known as one of India’s greatest-ever all-rounders. His most famous feat was against England at Lord's in 1952 when he scored 72 and 184 and bowled 97 overs in the match. He is one of only three cricketers to have batted in every position during his Test career. In later life, he also coached another legendary cricketer and fellow ICC Hall of Fame member from his country, Sunil Gavaskar in Mumbai, India. "A terrific cricketer. A stylish batsman." Next to be inducted into the #ICCHallOfFame 2021 is England's Ted Dexter 👏 pic.twitter.com/YxuupcKWzR — ICC (@ICC) June 13, 2021 × ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand seal first away Test series win against England since 1999 ODI ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1971-1995 Desmond Haynes of the West Indies played 116 Tests, scored 7,487 runs at 42.29 and was one half of the most prolific opening batting partnership in Test history alongside Gordon Greenidge. He was capable of some destructive innings and combined impeccable timing with power in his stroke making and has played four ICC World Cups in that era. Bob Willis of England played 90 Tests taking 325 wickets at 25.20 and spearheaded the English bowling attack during some of their most memorable moments during this period. Standing two metres tall, he could make the ball bounce awkwardly on most pitches and possessed an excellent yorker and bouncer, both of which he used to great effect over the course of his career. His greatest triumph was the famous eight for 43 that beat Australia at Headingley in 1981 and after retirement became a popular, and often polarising member of the Sky TV commentary box. MODERN CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were between 1996-2015 Andy Flower of Zimbabwe played 63 Tests, scoring 4,794 runs at 51.54, took 151 catches with nine stumpings as a left-handed wicket-keeper batsmen. First Zimbabwe player to be inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. His grit, determination and will to succeed meant at one point he was ranked number 1 batsman in the world. Andy carried his country's batting for long periods, setting the record for the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper with an innings of 232 not out against India at Nagpur in 2000. Later, he became a hugely successful coach, leading England to the number 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings for Men. Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka played 134 Tests, scored 12,400 runs at 57.40, took 182 catches and 20 stumpings, and was grace personified at the crease. Sangakkara ended his career as the most prolific run-scorer his country had ever known, with double-hundreds flowing from his bat with consummate ease. In 2014 he struck 319 and 105 in the same Test match against Bangladesh and in 2017 fell just 16 runs short of striking six successive centuries in first-class cricket. The 10 icons inducted as part of this special edition were voted for by the ICC Hall of Fame Voting Academy, comprising living Hall of Fame members, a FICA representative, prominent cricket journalists and senior ICC figures. Commenting on getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame, Ted Dexter (England) said: “Well I wasn’t completely aware of the ICC Hall of Fame until I found out I was going to be inducted, so after looking at some of the names in it and knowing that cricket deserves to have a Hall of Fame, I was really chuffed to hear the news. The names in the ICC Hall of Fame include some super players, some of whom I played with, against, and some of whom I had a lot to do with when I was working in English cricket. “My fondest memory as a player is probably the New Year’s Ashes Test 1962/63 against the might of Benaud’s Australia. We needed almost 240 to win the match on the final day and boy did I feel good when we got over the line! That is something I will never forget. “After my playing career, not in my wildest dreams did I think I would end up being a top administrator of the game. I thought I would get on with life after playing and build my PR business. Suddenly along came the opportunity to become Chairman of Selectors, and at the time we were expected to beat most of the emerging Test nations. I was aware that time had moved on so unless we thought differently and planned ahead, we were going to be left behind. “There are many moments in my life in cricket of which I am very proud; as a player, an administrator and in establishing what is today’s rankings system. I also take great pride in having simplified the means of producing on-screen captions and scorecards when I was working as a television commentator, something which you take for granted when watching cricket today. My work in cricket is all very gratifying and I am really proud of everything I have achieved. Being recognized by the ICC for what I have achieved is very satisfying and knowing that I’ve been chosen by my peers and so many great names makes me blush, and I’m thrilled along with my family by this honour.” Speaking on his induction, Desmond Haynes said: “I have played Cricket with some of the greats of the game from the West Indies who are also inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. That team from 1978 till about the 1990s was a fantastic team. As a young boy growing up in Barbados, I never dreamt that I would be one day inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. I have really come a long way and I am very happy for this honour. The journey was not smooth, I started playing cricket in a little area of St. James in Barbados where I was loved by everyone in the community, who also helped me stay out of trouble. This is also for my grandmother, my mum and my wife, all of whom supported me in my journey.” Speaking on Vinoo Mankad’s induction, fellow ICC Hall of Fame member, Sunil Gavaskar said: “Vinoo Mankad’s legacy has been to tell the aspiring Indian cricketer to believe in oneself. He was a great proponent of self-belief. He was the one who kept saying to me that you need to keep scoring runs and keep at it. When you get a 100, let that be the knock on the selector’s door. If it is unheard, then score that double hundred and let that knock be even louder. You can have the best technique, but if you do not have the temperament to support it you will not succeed, you have to keep hanging in there and have that self-belief. That was the greatest lesson I learnt from him.” Commenting on Bob Willis’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, his wife Lauren Clark said: “We are incredibly honoured as a family that Bob is getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame and it is sad that he is not here to accept it himself. He deserves to be here; he played 90 Tests for England and took 325 Test wickets and he worked really hard for those wickets, and we are really honoured and proud of him.” Commenting on receiving the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, granddaughter of Monty Noble, Elizabeth Noble said: “It is a great honour for us as a family to have my grandfather, inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. We are delighted and truly humbled that his contributions to cricket have been recognized and celebrated in such a way.” Reacting to the honour on her father being inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, daughter of Stan McCabe, Christine Hancock said: “I was thrilled when I heard about his induction, and very proud of this honour. He was a good father and we spent a lot of good times together. He was very generous and humble in the family home. He would tell me about his innings at Trent Bridge in 1938 and that while he was batting, Don Bradman told the whole team to go out onto the balcony to watch my father’s innings, telling them they’ll never see anything like it ever again! Although I didn’t see him play a lot myself, I always heard stories about him as this fluid, swashbuckling sort of player. He didn’t talk much about his cricket career at home. He would always rather be known as the father of Geoff and Chris McCabe than as a cricketer.”

Cricket: ICC announces Hall of Fame special inductions to mark inaugural World Test Championship Final

Ten legends of the game who have made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket will be inducted to join 93 players who are already in the illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers making the total now to 103.

The special intake will see two players from each of the following five eras join the ranks of the world’s greatest players.

<ul>
	<li>Early Cricket Era (pre-1918)</li>
	<li>Inter-War Cricket Era (1918 – 1945)</li>
	<li>Post-War Cricket Era (1946 – 1970)</li>
	<li>ODI Era (1971 – 1995)</li>
	<li>Modern Cricket Era (1996 – 2016)</li>
</ul>

The ten icons inducted as part of this special edition have been voted for by the ICC Hall of Fame Voting Academy, comprising of living Hall of Fame members, a FICA representative, prominent cricket journalists and senior ICC figures.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-and-co-break-sweat-at-the-ageas-bowl-after-ending-quarantine-watch-390514" hreflang="en">Cricket: Virat and Co. break sweat at the Ageas Bowl after ending quarantine - WATCH</a>

ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice: “It is an honour for us to announce a one-time induction of ten cricketing greats into the ICC Hall of Fame to coincide with the first-ever final of the World Test Championship in Southampton.

“We are celebrating the history of the game and what better way than to honour some of the greats that founded and played the game across different eras. These are all players with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.”&nbsp;

The special edition ICC Hall of Fame show will be hosted by Alan Wilkins streamed live on all ICC digital channels, including Facebook and YouTube on June 13 2021 at 4:30 PM GST / 6:00 PM IST / 1:30 BST, featuring interviews from the inductees and reactions and insights from a specialist panel of guests including Lisa Sthalekar and Lawrence Booth, who will also be joined by two special inductees making their way into this league of legends.

Ten legends of the game who have made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket will be inducted to join 93 players who are already in the illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers making the total now to 103.

Ten legends of the game who have made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket will be inducted to join 93 players who are already in the illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers making the total now to 103. The special intake will see two players from each of the following five eras join the ranks of the world’s greatest players. Early Cricket Era (pre-1918) Inter-War Cricket Era (1918 – 1945) Post-War Cricket Era (1946 – 1970) ODI Era (1971 – 1995) Modern Cricket Era (1996 – 2016) The ten icons inducted as part of this special edition have been voted for by the ICC Hall of Fame Voting Academy, comprising of living Hall of Fame members, a FICA representative, prominent cricket journalists and senior ICC figures. ALSO READ: Cricket: Virat and Co. break sweat at the Ageas Bowl after ending quarantine - WATCH ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice: “It is an honour for us to announce a one-time induction of ten cricketing greats into the ICC Hall of Fame to coincide with the first-ever final of the World Test Championship in Southampton. “We are celebrating the history of the game and what better way than to honour some of the greats that founded and played the game across different eras. These are all players with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.” The special edition ICC Hall of Fame show will be hosted by Alan Wilkins streamed live on all ICC digital channels, including Facebook and YouTube on June 13 2021 at 4:30 PM GST / 6:00 PM IST / 1:30 BST, featuring interviews from the inductees and reactions and insights from a specialist panel of guests including Lisa Sthalekar and Lawrence Booth, who will also be joined by two special inductees making their way into this league of legends.

Cricket: ICC announces special Hall of Fame inductions ahead of WTC Final

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh suggested that he will go ahead with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill and open the innings for Virat and Co. in the World Test Championship Finals against New Zealand.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-with-better-facilities-i-wouldve-played-for-the-india-at-a-younger-age-virender-sehwag-390395" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'With better facilities, I would've played for the India at a younger age' - Virender Sehwag</a>

Team India have experimented with their opening combination in their recent matches. They kicked off the Australian series with the opening combination of Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal, which failed. After Rohit Sharma's arrival, he and Shubman Gill opened for the Indian team.&nbsp;

“Rohit Sharma is very experienced now in Test matches. He has almost 7 hundreds as an opener. But both Rohit and Shubman Gill have not opened in England ever,” Yuvraj told Sports Tak.

He talked about the challenges of the swinging Dukes ball in England and how Gill and Rohit need to be wary&nbsp;of it.

“They know the challenge, the Dukes Ball swings early. They have to get used to the conditions quickly,” he added.

“In England, it's important to take it one session at a time. In the morning, the ball swings and seams, in the afternoon you can score runs, after Tea, it swings again. As a batsman, if you can adapt to these things, you can be successful,” the former left-hander said.

Yuvraj Singh batted for a best of three finals in order to decide the winner of the World Test Championship finals.&nbsp;

“I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand are already playing Test cricket in England,” he said.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh suggested that he will go ahead with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill and open the innings for Virat and Co. in the World Test Championship Finals against New Zealand.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh suggested that he will go ahead with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill and open the innings for Virat and Co. in the World Test Championship Finals against New Zealand. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'With better facilities, I would've played for the India at a younger age' - Virender Sehwag Team India have experimented with their opening combination in their recent matches. They kicked off the Australian series with the opening combination of Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal, which failed. After Rohit Sharma's arrival, he and Shubman Gill opened for the Indian team. “Rohit Sharma is very experienced now in Test matches. He has almost 7 hundreds as an opener. But both Rohit and Shubman Gill have not opened in England ever,” Yuvraj told Sports Tak. He talked about the challenges of the swinging Dukes ball in England and how Gill and Rohit need to be wary of it. “They know the challenge, the Dukes Ball swings early. They have to get used to the conditions quickly,” he added. “In England, it's important to take it one session at a time. In the morning, the ball swings and seams, in the afternoon you can score runs, after Tea, it swings again. As a batsman, if you can adapt to these things, you can be successful,” the former left-hander said. Yuvraj Singh batted for a best of three finals in order to decide the winner of the World Test Championship finals. “I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand are already playing Test cricket in England,” he said.

Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals

With less than two weeks for the World Test Championship finals, New Zealand are set to rest their top pacers in the second match against England in Edgbaston.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/danish-kaneria-feels-this-indian-batsman-is-due-for-double-century-in-wtc-finals-390359" hreflang="en">Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals</a>

The BlackCaps may rest Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson and Neil Wagner against Root and Co., who all bowled over 40 overs across two innings in the first Test at Lord's. New Zealand's bowling attack is already bolstered with the arrival of Trent Boult.&nbsp;

"They (bowlers) have all scrubbed up pretty well, but it does not necessarily mean they will play in the next match. With an eye on the [WTC] final, we want to make sure the key bowlers who we think will take part in that game are fresh, raring to go and ready for that first ball of the match versus India," said New Zealand coach Gary Stead ahead of the second Test.

The lethal trio (Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson and Neil Wagner) can be replaced by Matt Henry, Doug Bracewell and Jacob Duffy, who are also in the squad.&nbsp;

"We have got a squad of 20 obviously. So, a lot of guys have played Test cricket before. Matt Henry is here, Daryl Mitchell is here, Doug Bracewell, [spinner] Ajaz Patel -- there are guys in and around the squad who have played for us in the past. So, again, we are having those discussions with them about what is best for them given training loads, playing loads and readiness for that match."

Skipper Kane Williamson's availability for the second Test against England is in doubt too due to a niggle in the elbow.&nbsp;

With less than two weeks for the World Test Championship finals, New Zealand are set to rest their top pacers in the second match against England in Edgbaston. ALSO READ: Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals The BlackCaps may rest Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson and Neil Wagner against Root and Co.

With less than two weeks for the World Test Championship finals, New Zealand are set to rest their top pacers in the second match against England in Edgbaston. ALSO READ: Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals The BlackCaps may rest Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson and Neil Wagner against Root and Co., who all bowled over 40 overs across two innings in the first Test at Lord's. New Zealand's bowling attack is already bolstered with the arrival of Trent Boult. "They (bowlers) have all scrubbed up pretty well, but it does not necessarily mean they will play in the next match. With an eye on the [WTC] final, we want to make sure the key bowlers who we think will take part in that game are fresh, raring to go and ready for that first ball of the match versus India," said New Zealand coach Gary Stead ahead of the second Test. The lethal trio (Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson and Neil Wagner) can be replaced by Matt Henry, Doug Bracewell and Jacob Duffy, who are also in the squad. "We have got a squad of 20 obviously. So, a lot of guys have played Test cricket before. Matt Henry is here, Daryl Mitchell is here, Doug Bracewell, [spinner] Ajaz Patel -- there are guys in and around the squad who have played for us in the past. So, again, we are having those discussions with them about what is best for them given training loads, playing loads and readiness for that match." Skipper Kane Williamson's availability for the second Test against England is in doubt too due to a niggle in the elbow.

Cricket: New Zealand set to rest their star pacers for WTC Finals

Former Pakistan cricket Danish Kaneria feels that Team India's star opener Rohit Sharma could smash his second double-century in the longest format at the World Test Championship finals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-has-best-bowling-line-up-to-probably-travel-to-all-conditions-brendon-mccullum-390337" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'India has best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions': Brendon McCullum</a>

Sharma is the only cricketer to have three double tons in ODIs, whereas, just one in Test cricket. The batsman has been in sublime form and will play a vital role for India in the highly anticipated finals against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Kaneria went on to say that Rohit Sharma has much better technique than Indian skipper Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

"No doubt, Kohli belongs to a different class altogether but I feel Rohit is better than him technique-wise. Kohli is a superstar, a legend but Rohit's has a knack of getting big scores. Although that has not happened in a while, every big player I feel scores big in important matches. He is due for a double-century," Kaneria said on his YouTube channel.

Former Pak bowler added that the conditions in Southampton will suit Rohit Sharma which increases his chances to score a daddy hundred.&nbsp;

"The wicket in Southampton will suit him and I believe he is a key player. It is important that he scores runs and I am sure he will make big runs because that’s the kind of player he is. In Australia he couldn’t get a big score but that doesn’t mean he can’t. Rohit will be the key player for India in batting. Everyone has to score runs, but like I said, Rohit will be key," Kaneria added.

Former Pakistan cricket Danish Kaneria feels that Team India's star opener Rohit Sharma could smash his second double-century in the longest format at the World Test Championship finals.

Former Pakistan cricket Danish Kaneria feels that Team India's star opener Rohit Sharma could smash his second double-century in the longest format at the World Test Championship finals. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'India has best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions': Brendon McCullum Sharma is the only cricketer to have three double tons in ODIs, whereas, just one in Test cricket. The batsman has been in sublime form and will play a vital role for India in the highly anticipated finals against New Zealand. Kaneria went on to say that Rohit Sharma has much better technique than Indian skipper Virat Kohli. "No doubt, Kohli belongs to a different class altogether but I feel Rohit is better than him technique-wise. Kohli is a superstar, a legend but Rohit's has a knack of getting big scores. Although that has not happened in a while, every big player I feel scores big in important matches. He is due for a double-century," Kaneria said on his YouTube channel. Former Pak bowler added that the conditions in Southampton will suit Rohit Sharma which increases his chances to score a daddy hundred. "The wicket in Southampton will suit him and I believe he is a key player. It is important that he scores runs and I am sure he will make big runs because that’s the kind of player he is. In Australia he couldn’t get a big score but that doesn’t mean he can’t. Rohit will be the key player for India in batting. Everyone has to score runs, but like I said, Rohit will be key," Kaneria added.

Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.<o:p></o:p>

Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been named as the match referee for the much-awaited game between India and New Zealand whereas Richard Illingworth and Michael Gough of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires have been named the on-field officials for the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

Whereas, Richard Kettleborough, also a member of the elite panel, will be the third umpire for the game. Alex Wharf of the ICC International Panel of Umpires will be the fourth official. <o:p></o:p>

"We are pleased to announce an experienced team of match officials for the final of the World Test Championship," said ICC Senior Manager -- Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-top-5-run-scorers-in-world-test-championship-cycle-2019-2021-390168" hreflang="en">Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021</a>

"It has not been an easy time with the pandemic, but we are fortunate to have a group of officials at the top of their field who have been consistent over the years in this momentous fixture. We wish them all the very best," he added. <o:p></o:p>

The New Zealand team, after the second Test against England, will shift from ECB’s bio-secure environment to the WTC final bubble on June 15 and will undergo regular testing for COVID-19, prior and post-arrival to Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, India are inside the bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been named as the match referee for the much-awaited game between India and New Zealand whereas Richard Illingworth and Michael Gough of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires have been named the on-field officials for the WTC final. Whereas, Richard Kettleborough, also a member of the elite panel, will be the third umpire for the game. Alex Wharf of the ICC International Panel of Umpires will be the fourth official. "We are pleased to announce an experienced team of match officials for the final of the World Test Championship," said ICC Senior Manager -- Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith. ALSO READ: Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021 "It has not been an easy time with the pandemic, but we are fortunate to have a group of officials at the top of their field who have been consistent over the years in this momentous fixture. We wish them all the very best," he added. The New Zealand team, after the second Test against England, will shift from ECB’s bio-secure environment to the WTC final bubble on June 15 and will undergo regular testing for COVID-19, prior and post-arrival to Southampton. Meanwhile, India are inside the bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series. However, many have questioned his long-term place in the playing XI. <o:p></o:p>

Opining on the matter, former India chief selector, MSK Prasad has backed the veteran while saying he has always stepped up when players like Virat Kohli and others have failed as the former India chief selector explained Rahane’s importance in the team. <o:p></o:p>

"I think he is too good a player to start with. Of course, he has gone through lots of ups and downs (of late) but whenever the team has been in trouble, he rises to the occasion. He has that potential. The graph is a little up and down but I don’t foresee any drastic decision being taken by team management. He will come back strongly. He is a wonderful team-man and everybody likes him a lot. Whenever Virat hasn’t played a big innings, this man has stepped up. We must not forget how he delivered as a captain and a player in Australia when many seniors were absent," Prasad told cricket.com.

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"He is a proven player and his overseas record is far superior to many of the Indian players and maybe at home he has struggled a bit. We should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him," Prasad added.<o:p></o:p>

Prasad added that players like Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are “true soldiers” of the team. <o:p></o:p>

"Again, we should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him. Someone like Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara because they are true soldiers who have served Indian cricket wonderfully well for several years in the longer format. We should in fact back them.<o:p></o:p>

"Such talents should never be sidelined as they are proven match-winners and complete players. Rahane is like a suicidal troop. He can go anywhere to bat for the team," he signed off.<o:p></o:p>

Rahane will be seen in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, followed by the five-Test series against England as India gear up for a vital couple of months ahead.<o:p></o:p>

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series.

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series. However, many have questioned his long-term place in the playing XI. Opining on the matter, former India chief selector, MSK Prasad has backed the veteran while saying he has always stepped up when players like Virat Kohli and others have failed as the former India chief selector explained Rahane’s importance in the team. "I think he is too good a player to start with. Of course, he has gone through lots of ups and downs (of late) but whenever the team has been in trouble, he rises to the occasion. He has that potential. The graph is a little up and down but I don’t foresee any drastic decision being taken by team management. He will come back strongly. He is a wonderful team-man and everybody likes him a lot. Whenever Virat hasn’t played a big innings, this man has stepped up. We must not forget how he delivered as a captain and a player in Australia when many seniors were absent," Prasad told cricket.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand "He is a proven player and his overseas record is far superior to many of the Indian players and maybe at home he has struggled a bit. We should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him," Prasad added. Prasad added that players like Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are “true soldiers” of the team. "Again, we should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him. Someone like Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara because they are true soldiers who have served Indian cricket wonderfully well for several years in the longer format. We should in fact back them. "Such talents should never be sidelined as they are proven match-winners and complete players. Rahane is like a suicidal troop. He can go anywhere to bat for the team," he signed off. Rahane will be seen in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, followed by the five-Test series against England as India gear up for a vital couple of months ahead.

Cricket: 'Whenever Virat Kohli hasn’t played big knock, he has stepped up': MSK Prasad backs Ajinkya Rahane in India XI

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has echoed Ravi Shastri’s comments that the final of the World Test Championship should have been a three-match affair rather than being a one-off Test to decide the winner in the longest format of the game. India take on New Zealand in the summit clash of WTC in Southampton, starting from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Further highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian team, Yuvraj said the openers will have to step up to the challenges of playing in English conditions against the Dukes&nbsp;ball. <o:p></o:p>

"Rohit Sharma is very experienced now in Test matches. He has almost 7 hundreds, 4 hundreds as opener. But both Rohit and Shubman Gill have not opened in England ever," Yuvraj told Sports Tak.<o:p></o:p>

"They know the challenge, the Dukes Ball swings early. They have to get used to the conditions quickly. In England, it's important to take it one session at a time. In the morning, the ball swings and seams, in the afternoon you can score runs, after Tea, it swings again. As a batsman, if you can adapt to these things, you can be successful.

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"On the other hand, Shubman is a very young guy, still inexperienced but he should feel confident about his success in Australia. So, if he has the belief, he can do well anywhere else in the world."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, India are currently undergoing quarantine in Southampton while New Zealand lock horns with England in a two-Test series. Yuvraj opined that India will have a slight disadvantage going into the WTC side as New Zealand are already playing Test cricket against England.

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"I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand are already playing Test cricket in England.<o:p></o:p>

"There are 8-10 practice sessions but there's no substitute for match-practice. It will be an even contest but New Zealand will have an edge," Yuvraj added.<o:p></o:p>

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has echoed Ravi Shastri’s comments that the final of the World Test Championship should have been a three-match affair rather than being a one-off Test to decide the winner in the longest format of the game.

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has echoed Ravi Shastri’s comments that the final of the World Test Championship should have been a three-match affair rather than being a one-off Test to decide the winner in the longest format of the game. India take on New Zealand in the summit clash of WTC in Southampton, starting from June 18. Further highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian team, Yuvraj said the openers will have to step up to the challenges of playing in English conditions against the Dukes ball. "Rohit Sharma is very experienced now in Test matches. He has almost 7 hundreds, 4 hundreds as opener. But both Rohit and Shubman Gill have not opened in England ever," Yuvraj told Sports Tak. "They know the challenge, the Dukes Ball swings early. They have to get used to the conditions quickly. In England, it's important to take it one session at a time. In the morning, the ball swings and seams, in the afternoon you can score runs, after Tea, it swings again. As a batsman, if you can adapt to these things, you can be successful. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav "On the other hand, Shubman is a very young guy, still inexperienced but he should feel confident about his success in Australia. So, if he has the belief, he can do well anywhere else in the world." Meanwhile, India are currently undergoing quarantine in Southampton while New Zealand lock horns with England in a two-Test series. Yuvraj opined that India will have a slight disadvantage going into the WTC side as New Zealand are already playing Test cricket against England. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH "I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand are already playing Test cricket in England. "There are 8-10 practice sessions but there's no substitute for match-practice. It will be an even contest but New Zealand will have an edge," Yuvraj added.

Cricket: Yuvraj Singh echoes Ravi Shastri's stand, says WTC final should have been three-match series

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