WTC 2023

Virat Kohli’s Spectacular Records in the ICC World Test Championship

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Virat Kohli's Spectacular Records in the ICC World Test Championship

In the highly anticipated WTC Final of 2023, cricket fans witnessed the awe-inspiring brilliance of Virat Kohli as he etched his name in the annals of cricketing history. With an exceptional knock of 44* runs in the second innings against the formidable Australian team, Kohli shattered multiple records, leaving a lasting impact on the ICC World Test Championship. Let’s dive into the astounding records set by the maestro himself.

Kohli’s Dominance against Australia

On the fourth day of the WTC Final, Virat Kohli achieved a remarkable feat by amassing 2000 test runs against Australia, joining the esteemed ranks of only five Indian cricketers to achieve this milestone. His performance against the Aussies has been nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing his sheer love for the game, especially in the realm of test cricket against Australia in their own den.

Over the course of 25 test matches, Kohli amassed a staggering 2037 runs at an average of 48.50, including eight centuries and five half-centuries. Standing just behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who amassed 3630 runs against Australia in 36 test matches at an average of 55.0, Kohli’s record against the Aussies remains a testament to his exceptional batting prowess.

Dominating the Australians in International Cricket

Virat Kohli’s dominance against Australia extends beyond the test arena. In a monumental achievement, he crossed the 5000-run mark in international cricket against Australia, becoming only the second player in the world to accomplish this feat. In 93 matches against the Aussies, Kohli boasts an impressive average of 51.05, including a remarkable tally of sixteen centuries and 24 half-centuries.

Record-Breaking Performances in ICC Knockouts

Virat Kohli’s consistency in ICC tournaments has propelled him to new heights, breaking records along the way. In the WTC Final, he surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 657 runs in ICC tournament knockouts, accumulating a staggering 680 runs in 18 innings. Kohli’s remarkable performances in ICC tournaments have been a key factor in India’s success, solidifying his status as a match-winner.

Reigning Supreme in the World Test Championship

Virat Kohli’s impact in the World Test Championship (WTC) has been unparalleled. In yet another monumental achievement, he claimed the title of the highest run-scorer for India in the WTC. With an impressive tally of 1803 runs, Kohli’s dominance in the tournament has been instrumental in India’s journey to the final. Hot on his heels is the dynamic opener Rohit Sharma, who trails by a mere nine runs with 1794 to his name.

The Elite Club of Runs against Australia

In the illustrious history of Indian cricket, a select few have excelled against Australia. Virat Kohli’s exceptional records place him among the greats who have left an indelible mark in the India vs. Australia rivalry. Let’s take a look at the exclusive club of

Most run-scorers for India against Australia in Tests:

  • Sachin Tendulkar: 3630 runs in 39 matches, including 11 centuries.
  • VVS Laxman: 2434 runs in 29 matches, including 6 centuries.
  • Rahul Dravid: 2143 runs in 32 matches, including 2 centuries.
  • Cheteshwar Pujara: 2074* runs in 25 matches, including 5 centuries.
  • Virat Kohli: 2025* runs in 25 matches, including 8 centuries.

The Leading Lights in ICC Knockouts

In the high-stakes environment of ICC knockouts, Kohli has consistently shone bright for the Indian team.

Here are the Top performers for India in ICC knockout matches, including the recent WTC Final:

  • Virat Kohli: 680* runs in 18 innings.
  • Sachin Tendulkar: 657 runs in 14 innings.
  • Rohit Sharma: 620* runs in 17 innings.
  • Sourav Ganguly: 514 runs in 8 innings.
  • Yuvraj Singh: 458 runs in 14 innings.

Virat Kohli’s extraordinary records in the ICC World Test Championship, his unparalleled performances against Australia, and his consistency in ICC tournaments have cemented his status as one of cricket’s modern-day legends. With each milestone he achieves, Kohli continues to inspire and captivate cricket enthusiasts around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s rich history.

ICC Removes Controversial Soft Signal Rule Starting from WTC final

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ICC Removes Controversial Soft Signal Rule Starting from WTC final

The soft-signal could be abolished from the 2023 World Test Championship final between India and Australia. As per reports, the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Cricket Committee, headed by former India captain Sourav Ganguly, has approved a rule that has been a subject of much debate and controversy. It is set to be part of the playing conditions for the Final, which will be played between India and Australia at The Oval in London from June 7 to 12.

The rule has been a point of contention on a number of occassions(ICC)The soft-signal rule involves the on-field umpires making their own decision known before asking the third umpire to give a verdict to see if the ball has carried to a fielder when a catch is taken. Once the on-field umpire gives the soft-signal, the television umpire can turn it around only when there is sufficient evidence to do so from the video replays.

What is Soft Signal Rule?

According to ICC rules, a “Soft Signal is the visual communication by the bowler’s end umpire to the third umpire (accompanied by additional information via two-way radio where necessary) of his/her initial on-field decision prior to initiating an Umpire Review.

“The rule further states: “Should both on-field umpires require assistance from the third umpire to make a decision, the bowler’s end umpire shall firstly take a decision on-field after consulting with the striker’s end umpire, before consulting by two-way radio with the third umpire. Such consultation shall be initiated by the bowler’s end umpire to the third umpire by making the shape of a TV screen with his/her hands, followed by a Soft Signal of Out or Not out made with the hands close to the chest at chest height. If the third umpire advises that the replay evidence is inconclusive, the on-field decision communicated at the start of the consultation process shall stand.

“It means that the on-field umpire’s on what they see with their naked eye ends up heavily influencing the television umpire’s decision which has repeatedly irked players and commentators. “ICC should get rid of the soft signal and let the 3rd umpire who has all the technology make the decision when the on-field umpires send it upstairs, all the controversy is always around the soft signal given. The England Test captain, Ben Stokes, had made a statement regarding a decision made by Marnus Labuschagne during an Australia-South Africa Test earlier this year. Stokes clarified that his statement was not intended as a comment on the decision.It is noteworthy that floodlights may be utilized during gameplay in the event of insufficient natural lighting. Similar to the 2021 WTC final, a contingency sixth day has been allocated for the upcoming game this year. The reserve day was utilized during the 2021 final between India and New Zealand due to the significant rainfall that disrupted the match at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, England. India was defeated by New Zealand by seven wickets, resulting in New Zealand becoming the inaugural Test world champions. World Test Championship Final The International Cricket Council (ICC) has decided to eliminate the soft signal rule from the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, a decision that will have a long-term impact on the sport of cricket. The decision aims to eliminate the possibility of on-field umpiring decisions affecting the recommendations of technology, resulting in more precise and definitive decisions.

Soft Signal Rule Removed, a Controversial Rule

The committee, headed by former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, has approved the removal of the soft signal rule. The decision-making process was significantly influenced by Ganguly’s extensive experience and expertise in the game. Upon approval of the rule, notification of the modification was expeditiously conveyed to the finalists of the WTC, namely India and Australia.

The implementation of the soft signal rule had sparked a significant debate during a Test match featuring Australia and South Africa. The low catch taken by South Africa’s Simon Harmer, which initially received a soft signal of ‘out’ from the on-field umpire, became the center of attention due to the dismissal of Marnus Labuschagne. Upon analyzing the replays, the third umpire reversed the verdict and declared it as ‘not out’ despite the lack of conclusive evidence.

New Rules introduced to Improve the Game

The ICC has implemented two notable modifications, alongside the elimination of the soft signal regulation. It has been decided that during day games, the utilization of floodlights will be permissible in the event of unfavorable natural light conditions that may impede the game. The seamless continuation of matches guarantees uninterrupted gameplay, thereby improving the game’s overall quality. In addition, reserve days will be allocated for one-off Test matches to guarantee the attainment of a conclusive outcome. The matter of matches being impacted by unfavorable weather conditions or unexpected circumstances is being resolved, ensuring an equitable and definitive result.

India and Australia get ready for the final clash

The ICC World Test Championship final featuring India and Australia is scheduled to occur at The Oval in London, generating significant anticipation. The available information does not provide the exact date of the final, however, there is a significant level of anticipation among cricket enthusiasts globally for the upcoming confrontation between two dominant cricket teams. The Oval, a venue steeped in cricketing history, has been witness to several noteworthy matches throughout its existence.

India’s attainment of the WTC final was a result of their unwavering performances throughout the 2021-2023 cycle. The team demonstrated their superiority in the extended version of the sport against challenging adversaries such as Australia, England, and New Zealand, amassing sufficient points to guarantee their position.

The final will witness the participation of the finest teams from Australia and India. The Indian squad has been announced, comprising notable players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, and the recent inclusion of Ishan Kishan, who has taken the place of the injured KL Rahul.

David Warner, an experienced player, is worth monitoring in Australia’s squad. The inclusion of Warner in the Australian batting lineup enhances their strength and potency, rendering them a formidable entity.The upcoming WTC final between India and Australia is expected to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams comprise experienced players and promising talents.

KL Rahul declared unfit to participate in both the Indian Premier League and the World Test Championship final

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KL Rahul declared unfit to participate in both the Indian Premier League and the World Test Championship final
KL Rahul suffered the injury against RCB

The culmination of KL Rahul’s IPL 2023 campaign has transpired, and the skipper of the Lucknow Super Giants has already departed from the franchise’s training facility. As per verified data, the esteemed India wicketkeeper-batsman is presently situated in Mumbai for diagnostic imaging. As per the report published by Cricbuzz on the third of May, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has assumed jurisdiction over his matter.

The Lucknow Super Giants have recently announced the acquisition of Karun Nair as a replacement for Rahul in the upcoming IPL 2023 season.As per Rahul’s Instagram announcement, he shall be undergoing a surgical procedure on his thigh, thereby rendering him unable to participate in the forthcoming World Test Championship final scheduled for early June. Following a thorough evaluation and consultation with the medical professionals, it has been determined that a surgical procedure on my thigh is imminent. In the forthcoming weeks, my attention shall be directed towards the process of my rehabilitation and convalescence. The decision at hand is a challenging one, yet I am confident that it is the appropriate course of action to guarantee a complete convalescence.

As the individual responsible for leading the team, it causes me great distress to be unable to attend during this pivotal juncture. However, I possess a strong conviction that the young gentlemen shall elevate themselves to the occasion and deliver an exemplary presentation, as per their usual standard. I shall be fervently rooting for them from the periphery alongside yourselves, meticulously observing each and every match.

I am deeply disheartened by the fact that I will not be present at the Oval next month alongside Team India. I shall endeavour to exhaust all possible avenues to rejoin the ranks of the azure hue and contribute to the betterment of my nation. My enduring preoccupation and foremost concern has consistently been directed towards that objective.

Approximately 10 months ago, Rahul underwent a hernia surgical procedure in Germany. It is currently being comprehended that all pertinent factors are being meticulously evaluated.

The LSG administration has yet to make a decision regarding the pursuit of a successor for Rahul. With a mere four league games remaining in their season, and the potential for additional matches should they secure a playoff berth, the team’s competitive schedule is drawing to a close. It has been duly noted that Krunal Pandya has assumed the mantle of leadership in lieu of Rahul’s absence.

Despite Jaydev Unadkat’s exclusion from the IPL, there remains a degree of ambiguity surrounding his status with the WTC. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating the potential appointment of substitute(s) contingent upon the attainment of lucidity. However, it shall be an effortless decision to determine who could potentially replace Rahul. Given that Ishan Kishan has recently been a member of the Indian cricket team, it is plausible that he may serve as the secondary wicketkeeper for the upcoming singular Test match. As previously indicated, the current status of the Unadkat scenario remains ambiguous.

In the interim, it has been ascertained that the Indian squad shall promptly embark for London to partake in the WTC finale subsequent to the culmination of the IPL’s league phase, slated to conclude on May 21, with the probable departure date being May 23. The cricketers who have qualified for the Indian Premier League playoffs shall embark on their journey to the United Kingdom at a subsequent juncture.

Sunil Gavaskar picks India’s playing XI against Australia in the WTC 2023 final, leaving KS Bharat out of the lineup.

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KL Rahul was chosen by Sunil Gavaskar to replace KS Bharat as India’s wicket-keeper for the World Test Championship (WTC 2023) final matchup against Australia.

Initially, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill were chosen by the former India captain, who then chose Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and KL Rahul at number six. Jadeja and Ashwin, two spinners, and Mohammed Shami, Jaydev Unadkat, and Mohammed Siraj, three pacers, were all used by Gavaskar. He emphasised that Rahane’s inclusion was based on more than only his IPL 2023 performance; it was also based on his impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy.

POINTS TO NOTE
  • For the WTC final 2023 against Australia, Sunil Gavaskar picked India’s playing XI.
  • In place of KS Bharat, Gavaskar chose KL Rahul as the wicketkeeper.
  • In June, the World Test Championship final between India and Australia will be played.

In his playing XI for the World Test Championship (WTC 2023) final versus Australia, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar chose wicket-keeper KL Rahul over regular wicket-keeper KS Bharat, who is also a member of the 15-person squad. The WTC final is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at the Kennington Oval in London.

KL Rahul was slated to bat at position six, and Gavaskar also chose the team’s captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as the openers.

Ajinkya Rahane, who made a comeback, was kept at his normal No. 5 batting position while Chesteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli essentially picked themselves in positions three and four.

The 73-year-old elected to use two spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, in addition to his pace bowling options of Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj.

“My opening options will be Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, followed by Cheteshwar Pujara at three, Virat Kohli at four, Ajinkya Rahane at five, and wicket-keeper KL Rahul at six. The next players will be Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammed Shami, and Mohd Siraj,” according to Gavaskar, who was appearing on Star Sports’ Cricket Live.

Gavaskar noted that Rahane’s selection was likely the only adjustment that the team needed, noting that it was also based on Mumbai’s strong Ranji Trophy record, not simply Rahane’s performance in the IPL 2023.

“For the Indian side, that was the only modification required. Shreyas Iyer needed to be replaced. Ajinkya Rahane was selected for the WTC squad despite his solid Ranji Trophy performance, not because of his current IPL performance. For Mumbai throughout the domestic season, he performed admirably. Who will play in the final eleven is the current question. Whether it will be wicketkeeper KS Bharat or KL Rahul. We’ll just have to wait and see,” he further added.