Harish Kotian writes on cricket and sports. You can e-mail the author at harishk@rediff.co.in
India will be desperate for a quality replacement for the crucial No. 4 slot with Shubman Gill likely to be ruled out for the must-win second and final Test against South Africa.
This was India's fourth defeat in the last six Tests at home and in all four Tests -- including three against New Zealand -- their batters have flopped against spin.
The series promises a fascinating duel between the two modern-day pace greats.
For spin great Neetu David it was a culmination of a lifelong dream -- to see the India women's team finally end their wait for a World title.
South Africa will aim for their first Test victory in India in more than 15 years.
Since making a comeback to the T20 team for the Asia Cup, Shubman Gill has struggled to tally just 184 runs in 10 innings.
'For him, win or defeat never mattered, he always told us to give our best and never worry about the results.'
Abhishek Sharma waged a lone battle with an entertaining 68 from 37 balls in the second T20I against Australia at MCG on Friday.
Who do you think should be part of the Indian team for Thursday's second ODI against Australia?
'Will any coach think of keeping out Rohit and Kohli from the ODI team? That means there is something going on within the team against the two players.' Manoj Tiwary, who played 12 ODIs and three T20Is for India, said iconic players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli deserve greater respect.
While new young stars have emerged in Indian cricket in the last few years, none can match the monumental batting feats or the electric fan frenzy that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli command.
'He will have no problems playing under any captain, he will still give his 100 percent for the team.'
The series in Australia could well be Rohit's last in India Blues. But Kohli, given his high fitness standards, could play on until the 2027 World Cup.
Pakistan leads India 3-2 in finals.
Mohinder Amarnath will always be remembered as a giant-hearted cricketer who stood tall against the fiercest attacks, carried the bruises with pride, and turned every setback into a comeback.
'The way he controlled the players on and off the field, it was brilliant. That's why the players also took to him very easily.'
India will be keen to get the job done against Bangladesh and seal their place in Sunday's final before considering resting their players.
India enjoy a dominant 9-3 win loss record against Pakistan in T20 Internationals, including a 7-1 margin in T20 World Cups.
Will Shubman Gill force either Sanju Samson or Tilak Varma out of the playing XI for the Asia Cup opening match against the UAE?
'I knew the finger was broken but I told the physio that I don't want to take any painkillers.' 'I was in very good rhythm and I just wanted to carry on.'
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