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The speculation surrounding the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in T20I cricket has garnered a ton of attention in the days gone by and it only seems to be increasing, especially with the T20I series with Afghanistan fast approaching. Afghanistan have already announced their squad and now all eyes are on the BCCI selectors. Will Rohit and Virat return? Meanwhile, the Indian women's team would look to take an assailable lead in the three-match T20I series against Australia when the two sides walk out to cross swords in the second game.
Let's have a look at top 10 trending sports news on January 7's sports roundup:
Rohit, Virat in focus as selectors likely to announces T20I squad for Afghanistan series
The BCCI is gearing up for a crucial meeting in Mumbai this Sunday. The primary agenda is to deliberate on the potential inclusion of team captain Rohit and prominent batter Virat for the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan.
Key figures from the BCCI, including secretary Jay Shah, are slated to attend the meeting. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who will be returning from South Africa, is also expected to join. This meeting is necessitated following unresolved discussions in South Africa and aims to finalize decisions regarding the team composition.
Rohit, who hasn't played in a T20I match since the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final, is poised to lead the Indian squad in what would be the final T20I series before the 2024 World Cup. On the other hand, Virat also last featured in a T20I game during the 2022 World Cup semi-final.
Ashwin hits out at 'outspoken' Michael Vaughan
Veteran India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin recently addressed comments made by Michael Vaughan, who described the Indian cricket team as 'underachievers.' Vaughan, a former England captain, criticised India's performance in major tournaments, suggesting a lack of significant success.
Responding to these remarks, Ashwin, a nominee for the ICC Men's Test Cricketer of the Year, took to his YouTube channel to offer a rebuttal. He acknowledged that while India has not secured an ICC trophy in recent years, their performance in Test cricket, particularly in away matches, has been commendable.
India U-19 team continues to dominate
India's Under-19 cricket team sustained their winning streak in the Tri-Series by securing a convincing six-wicket victory against South Africa. The team's triumph was set up by left-arm spinner Musheer Khan, who delivered an impressive five-wicket haul, limiting South Africa's total to 256 runs. Captain Uday Saharan's stellar century of 112 runs, coupled with Priyanshu Moliya's unbeaten knock of 76, propelled India to successfully chase the target with eight balls remaining in the match.
India women's team on the march
The Indian Women's cricket team is set to display their versatile skills in the upcoming second T20I against Australia on Sunday, aiming to clinch the three-match series. After facing a challenging 0-3 defeat in the ODIs, marked by shortcomings in various aspects of the game, the Indian team made a remarkable comeback. In the first T20, they showcased a dominant performance, securing an unprecedented nine-wicket victory over Australia.
Asalanka whacks terrific ton but rain has the final say
In the inaugural match of the one-day international series between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, which was ultimately abandoned due to rain, Charith Asalanka shone with a brilliant century. Playing at R. Premadasa Stadium, Asalanka scored an impressive 101 runs from 95 balls, a knock that featured four sixes and five boundaries. Sri Lanka, having been put into bat first by captain Kusal Mendis, reached a total of 273 for nine in their allotted 50 overs.
However, the match was disrupted when Zimbabwe, with a score of 12 for two in just four overs, faced a rain interruption. The persistent heavy rain meant no further play was possible, leading to the abandonment of the game.
Afghanistan name 19-member squad for India T20Is
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has revealed a 19-player roster for their upcoming three-T20I series against India. Ibrahim Zadran has been appointed as the captain for Afghanistan in this T20I series, stepping in for Rashid Khan, who is likely to miss the entire series due to ongoing recovery from back surgery.
Gujarat, Jaipur secure crucial points in PKL
In a thrilling encounter at the DOME by NSCI in Mumbai, the Gujarat Giants clinched a remarkable 37-30 victory over the Telugu Titans, propelling themselves to the second position on the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 points table. The Jaipur Pink Panthers, reigning champions of the PKL, extended their impressive run with a commanding 41-31 victory over U Mumba in their Season 10 encounter.
Real, Atletico storm into Copa del Rey last 16
Real Madrid comfortably progressed to the round of 16 in the Copa del Rey by securing a 3-1 win against fourth-division team Arandina. The match also marked the debut of young Turkish international Arda Güler for Real Madrid, following his recovery from several injuries. Additionally, Atletico Madrid also claimed a 3-1 victory against third-division side Lugo on Saturday.
Two heavyweights set for box-office FA Cup clash
Arsenal is set to host Liverpool in a significant FA Cup third-round match in North London, looking to leave behind a challenging end to 2023. After a period of decline from their top position at Christmas, the Gunners have managed only a single victory in their last six matches.
AIFF seek VAR in India
The All India Football Federation has reached out to the International Football Association Board, the authority responsible for setting the rules of soccer, to discuss India's potential involvement in testing the 'Additional Video Review System' (AVRS). Commonly referred to as VAR, this technology was initially implemented in FIFA events during the 2016-17 season.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Big News: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli set to be back in T20I squad after 14 months for Afghanistan series
End of an Era: David Warner ends illustrious Test career with brisk fifty in Australia's win, walks off SCG amid thunderous applause
