India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test: Rohit Sharma takes reins as India set for new era in Virat Kohli's 100th Test

Rohit Sharma begins a new era as India's Test captain on Friday when the two-match series against Sri Lanka begins, as predecessor Virat Kohli makes a landmark 100th appearance. Rohit is now in charge across all formats, succeeding Kohli who drove India up the world rankings but failed to lift any international silverware. Rohit, 34, reasserted his white-ball leadership credentials with a 3-0 Twenty20 sweep of Sri Lanka on Sunday that gave India a record-equalling 12th straight win.

Batsman Shreyas Iyer lauded the new captain for his hands-on approach with players ahead of the match in Mohali. "He is amazing. He thinks from a player's point of view," Iyer told the Times of India newspaper.

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Shreyas Iyer is once again marching to reclaim his space and identity. Talking to TOI, Iyer said, "Sometimes things just happen for the better. It's just that we come to know about it later. I was on a roll right in New Zealand and began feeling really confident of myself and my batting. As captain,

"He has got that mindset, where he connects to every individual and knows what he needs from support staff and coaches. I really respect him a lot."

The spotlight though will be on "King Kohli" who shocked fans when he quit as Test skipper following his 99th Test at the end of India's 2-1 series loss in South Africa in January.

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The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) has decided to open the gates for spectators at 50% capacity for the upcoming first Test between India and Sri Lanka, which will be Virat Kohli’s 100th for India. "With the