Former India captain Kapil Dev recently explained why Mohammed Shami is not a better fast bowler than Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi despite his last-over heroics against Australia in India's warm-up game ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 campaign.

Making his comeback after a long spell on the sidelines, Shami bowled a fantastic last over against Australia to defend 11 runs off it India's practice game against the hosts earlier this week. Shami went on to pick three wickets in the over as Australia were bundled out for 180 in the 187-run chase.

It was Shami's first over for India in Australia after he joined the team post his recovery from COVID-19 and the senior pacer managed to impress all with his heroics. However, Kapil believes Shami can't be compared with someone like Afridi on the basis of one over that he bowled against Australia in the warm-up game.

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"You can’t judge anything by just one over,"&nbsp;Kapil said during a debate in a joint broadcast of Samaa TV and ABP News.

"I wouldn’t even like to compare (Shami and Shaheen). Shami hasn’t played a lot of cricket of late. I would have perhaps compared Bumrah with Shaheen if he was there, but I can’t compare Shami and Afridi because there is a lot of difference.

Looking at the performances of the last two years, Shaheen has been very good. Whenever he has got an opportunity, he has made an impact,"&nbsp;Kapil explained.

While Afridi has been Pakistan's pace spearhead in T20Is and has been exceptional with the new ball, Shami was not in the scheme of things for India a few months ago as far as T20Is were concerned. The senior pacer last played a T20I game for India during the T20 World Cup last year.

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However, an injury to Jasprit Bumrah just days ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022, paved way for Shami's comeback in India's T20I squad. He was roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20 World Cup squad and will be hoping to justify his selection with good performances in the tournament.

India are currently locking horns with Pakistan in their T20 World Cup opener at the Melbourne Cricket Ground where both Shami and Afridi are in action for their respective teams.

Former India captain Kapil Dev recently explained why Mohammed Shami is not a better fast bowler than Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi despite his last-over heroics against Australia in India's warm-up game ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 campaign.

Former India captain Kapil Dev recently explained why Mohammed Shami is not a better fast bowler than Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi despite his last-over heroics against Australia in India's warm-up game ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 campaign. Making his comeback after a long spell on the sidelines, Shami bowled a fantastic last over against Australia to defend 11 runs off it India's practice game against the hosts earlier this week. Shami went on to pick three wickets in the over as Australia were bundled out for 180 in the 187-run chase. It was Shami's first over for India in Australia after he joined the team post his recovery from COVID-19 and the senior pacer managed to impress all with his heroics. However, Kapil believes Shami can't be compared with someone like Afridi on the basis of one over that he bowled against Australia in the warm-up game. Also Read: Pakistan not the destination, it is just a step towards it for India: Gautam Gambhir on marquee clash "You can’t judge anything by just one over," Kapil said during a debate in a joint broadcast of Samaa TV and ABP News. "I wouldn’t even like to compare (Shami and Shaheen). Shami hasn’t played a lot of cricket of late. I would have perhaps compared Bumrah with Shaheen if he was there, but I can’t compare Shami and Afridi because there is a lot of difference. Looking at the performances of the last two years, Shaheen has been very good. Whenever he has got an opportunity, he has made an impact," Kapil explained. While Afridi has been Pakistan's pace spearhead in T20Is and has been exceptional with the new ball, Shami was not in the scheme of things for India a few months ago as far as T20Is were concerned. The senior pacer last played a T20I game for India during the T20 World Cup last year. Also Read: WATCH: Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash However, an injury to Jasprit Bumrah just days ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022, paved way for Shami's comeback in India's T20I squad. He was roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20 World Cup squad and will be hoping to justify his selection with good performances in the tournament. India are currently locking horns with Pakistan in their T20 World Cup opener at the Melbourne Cricket Ground where both Shami and Afridi are in action for their respective teams.

Can't compare Mohammed Shami to Shaheen Afridi on the basis of one over, says legendary Kapil Dev

England were wobbly with the bat, but hostile with the ball and outstanding on the field in a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup opener here on Saturday. Sam Curran led the way with excellent figures of 5/10 as title contenders England, aided by some incredible catches, bowled out Afghanistan for 112 in a Super 12 Group 1 match.

While left-arm fast-medium bowling all-rounder Curran did the bulk of the damage, England were also helped by as many as three stunning catches after Jos Buttler opted to bowl.

Ibrahim Zadran (32) and Usman Ghani (30) were the two main contributors for Afghanistan. When England batted, Liam Livingstone (29 off 21 balls) was there till the end to see the team through after they lost five wickets. England won with 11 balls to spare.

Buttler did not last long, falling for an 18-ball 18 to Fazalhaq Farooqi but the Afghans did not have enough on the board to pose any sort of threat to an English line-up that bats deep.

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Alex Hales, too, got out after making 19 in 20 deliveries but that did not come in the way of a convincing England victory. Ben Stokes (2) was out cheaply too, leaving England at 65 for three in the 11th over. It became 97 for five in the 16th over, when Rashid Khan had Harry Brook (7) caught by Ibrahim Zadran.

On a lively Optus track that encouraged a good contest between the bat and the ball, Afghanistan managed 35 runs in the powerplay after losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the second over.

Declared fit for the game after being hit by Shaheen Afridi during the warm-ups, Gurbaz produced an outrageous shot to pull Chris Woakes over fine-leg for a six, but a quick 146kph Mark Wood delivery cut short his stay in the middle as he edged it to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.

Wood welcomed Ibrahim Zadran with a 154kph thunderbolt that went past the outside edge after holding its line from just back of a length. However, the next ball was a full toss and it was duly smashed through the covers, easing Zadran's nerves.

After hardly getting the strike, Hazratullah Zazai got into the act by playing Woakes over cover point for a boundary. 
Wood kept bowling fast at the other end, but Zadran was equal to the task, flaying a mean short ball from the English pacer over fine leg for a maximum.

As Afghanistan entered the middle overs looking to improve the run rate, Liam Livingstone pulled off a blinder running in from the deep, to signal the departure of Zazai after the batter had looked to slash one over third man.

Ben Stokes, who opened the proceedings for England, was the bowler on that occasion. With Afghanistan at 37 for two in seven overs, Sam Curran was introduced into the attack, and Usman Ghani flicked him for four.

However, England succeeded in keeping things tight in the middle before Curran returned to dismiss Zadran, thanks to a fine catch by Moeen Ali at backward point.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/confident-india-hoping-to-turn-tables-on-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-clash-527624">Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash</a>

Meanwhile, Stokes was seen grimacing after completing his third over, but it did not look serious. Najibullah Zadran hit Adil Rashid for a six straight down the ground in a 13-run 13th over before Wood came back to check the flow of runs.

Stokes sent back Najibullah, this time it was the turn of Adil Rashid to come up with a brilliant catch as the fielder, stationed at mid-on, he went back and completed an excellent catch after covering a lot of ground.

Buttler added his name to the list of phenomenal catches when he grabbed on to the ball after a well directed short ball by Wood had Mohammed Nabi in all sorts of trouble.

England were wobbly with the bat, but hostile with the ball and outstanding on the field in a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup opener here on Saturday.

England were wobbly with the bat, but hostile with the ball and outstanding on the field in a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup opener here on Saturday. Sam Curran led the way with excellent figures of 5/10 as title contenders England, aided by some incredible catches, bowled out Afghanistan for 112 in a Super 12 Group 1 match. While left-arm fast-medium bowling all-rounder Curran did the bulk of the damage, England were also helped by as many as three stunning catches after Jos Buttler opted to bowl. Ibrahim Zadran (32) and Usman Ghani (30) were the two main contributors for Afghanistan. When England batted, Liam Livingstone (29 off 21 balls) was there till the end to see the team through after they lost five wickets. England won with 11 balls to spare. Buttler did not last long, falling for an 18-ball 18 to Fazalhaq Farooqi but the Afghans did not have enough on the board to pose any sort of threat to an English line-up that bats deep. Also Read: New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is Alex Hales, too, got out after making 19 in 20 deliveries but that did not come in the way of a convincing England victory. Ben Stokes (2) was out cheaply too, leaving England at 65 for three in the 11th over. It became 97 for five in the 16th over, when Rashid Khan had Harry Brook (7) caught by Ibrahim Zadran. On a lively Optus track that encouraged a good contest between the bat and the ball, Afghanistan managed 35 runs in the powerplay after losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the second over. Declared fit for the game after being hit by Shaheen Afridi during the warm-ups, Gurbaz produced an outrageous shot to pull Chris Woakes over fine-leg for a six, but a quick 146kph Mark Wood delivery cut short his stay in the middle as he edged it to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler. Wood welcomed Ibrahim Zadran with a 154kph thunderbolt that went past the outside edge after holding its line from just back of a length. However, the next ball was a full toss and it was duly smashed through the covers, easing Zadran's nerves. After hardly getting the strike, Hazratullah Zazai got into the act by playing Woakes over cover point for a boundary. Wood kept bowling fast at the other end, but Zadran was equal to the task, flaying a mean short ball from the English pacer over fine leg for a maximum. As Afghanistan entered the middle overs looking to improve the run rate, Liam Livingstone pulled off a blinder running in from the deep, to signal the departure of Zazai after the batter had looked to slash one over third man. Ben Stokes, who opened the proceedings for England, was the bowler on that occasion. With Afghanistan at 37 for two in seven overs, Sam Curran was introduced into the attack, and Usman Ghani flicked him for four. However, England succeeded in keeping things tight in the middle before Curran returned to dismiss Zadran, thanks to a fine catch by Moeen Ali at backward point. Also Read: Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash Meanwhile, Stokes was seen grimacing after completing his third over, but it did not look serious. Najibullah Zadran hit Adil Rashid for a six straight down the ground in a 13-run 13th over before Wood came back to check the flow of runs. Stokes sent back Najibullah, this time it was the turn of Adil Rashid to come up with a brilliant catch as the fielder, stationed at mid-on, he went back and completed an excellent catch after covering a lot of ground. Buttler added his name to the list of phenomenal catches when he grabbed on to the ball after a well directed short ball by Wood had Mohammed Nabi in all sorts of trouble.

Sam Curran bags five-wicket haul as England beat Afghanistan by five wickets in T20 World Cup 2022

Argentina will head into the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 as one of the major title contenders considering the quality and experience in their ranks. While Lionel Messi will be looking to bow out with the elusive trophy in what is certain to be his last World Cup, Argentina also have the likes of Angel Di Maria, Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala, and Lisandro Martinez among others in their squad making them one of the favourites.

Messi will once again spearhead Argentina's charge at the World Cup and will be hoping to clinch his second major international trophy after winning the Copa America last year to bag his maiden international title. While Argentina will head into the competition as one of the favourites, Messi believes the likes of France and Brazil will be top contenders for the title.

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Messi was recently asked to name his favourites for the showpiece event in Qatar. While he believes the likes of England and Spain will also be favourites, the Argentinian put his money on Brazil and defending champions France.

"There are big teams like Brazil, Germany, France, England, Spain, and I'm sure I'm forgetting some. But if I have to keep one or two, today I think Brazil and France are the two big candidates for this World Cup," said the Argentina maestro.

Explaining why he believes France and Brazil are top title contenders, Messi said both teams have a clear style of play and have the same coach for a long time now. Interestingly, Argentina defeated Brazil in the final of Copa America last year to win the trophy.

"They've had the same group (of players) for a long time, working well. France, aside from the last Euros when they were eliminated (in the last 16) and did badly, they have some impressive players. They have a clear idea and the same coach (Didier Deschamps). Brazil is similar (with Tite in charge)," Messi added.

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Both Brazil and France have the strongest squads on paper and will arguably start as favourites in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. While Brazil are in Group G with Serbia, Switzerland and Cameroon, defending champions France are part of Group D with Australia, Tunisia and Denmark. 
&nbsp;

Argentina will head into the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 as one of the major title contenders considering the quality and experience in their ranks. While Lionel Messi will be looking to bow out with the elusive trophy in what is certain to be his last World Cup, Argentina also have the likes of Angel Di Maria, Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala, and Lisandro Martinez among others in their squad making them one of the favourites.

Argentina will head into the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 as one of the major title contenders considering the quality and experience in their ranks. While Lionel Messi will be looking to bow out with the elusive trophy in what is certain to be his last World Cup, Argentina also have the likes of Angel Di Maria, Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala, and Lisandro Martinez among others in their squad making them one of the favourites. Messi will once again spearhead Argentina's charge at the World Cup and will be hoping to clinch his second major international trophy after winning the Copa America last year to bag his maiden international title. While Argentina will head into the competition as one of the favourites, Messi believes the likes of France and Brazil will be top contenders for the title. Also Read: 'There are consequences': Erik Ten Hag confirms Cristiano Ronaldo refused to come on as a sub against Spurs Messi was recently asked to name his favourites for the showpiece event in Qatar. While he believes the likes of England and Spain will also be favourites, the Argentinian put his money on Brazil and defending champions France. "There are big teams like Brazil, Germany, France, England, Spain, and I'm sure I'm forgetting some. But if I have to keep one or two, today I think Brazil and France are the two big candidates for this World Cup," said the Argentina maestro. Explaining why he believes France and Brazil are top title contenders, Messi said both teams have a clear style of play and have the same coach for a long time now. Interestingly, Argentina defeated Brazil in the final of Copa America last year to win the trophy. "They've had the same group (of players) for a long time, working well. France, aside from the last Euros when they were eliminated (in the last 16) and did badly, they have some impressive players. They have a clear idea and the same coach (Didier Deschamps). Brazil is similar (with Tite in charge)," Messi added. Also Read: Kevin Pietersen calls Man Utd manager Erik Ten Hag a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo Both Brazil and France have the strongest squads on paper and will arguably start as favourites in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. While Brazil are in Group G with Serbia, Switzerland and Cameroon, defending champions France are part of Group D with Australia, Tunisia and Denmark.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi picks his title favourites for FIFA World Cup 2022

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.

While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field.

But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats.

It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts.

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While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times.

And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'.

BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious.

India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India

This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet.

And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler.

The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form.

How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations.

But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy.

While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things.

But with three left-handers -&nbsp;Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation.

Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devon-conway-tim-southee-help-new-zealand-thrash-australia-by-89-runs-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527600">Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022</a>

On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best. 
At the MCG after 37 years

It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson &amp; Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place.

That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG.

There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours.

No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'.

Squads:

India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda.

Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday. While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field. But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats. It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts. Also Read: New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times. And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'. BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious. India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet. And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler. The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form. How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations. But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy. While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things. But with three left-handers - Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation. Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard. Also Read: Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022 On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best. At the MCG after 37 years It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson & Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place. That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG. There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours. No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda. Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.

Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pipped Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the highest wicket-taker in T20Is on Saturday (October 22). Southee achieved the elusive feat during New Zealand's clash against defending champions Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney after delivering a masterclass with the ball.

Southee was the pick of the bowlers for the Kiwis as New Zealand thrashed Australia by89 runs to hand the hosts their biggest defeat in a T20I. New Zealand rode on opener Devon Conway's unbeaten 92 off 58 balls and Southee's three-wicket haul to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

Heading into the game, Southee was joint-top on the list of highest wicket-takers in T20Is with Shakib as both players had 122 scalps under their belt. However, the New Zealand pacer finished with a three-wicket haul against the Aussies to extend his tally to 125 wickets in 101 matches and become the leading wicket-taker in T20Is. Shakib has 122 wickets to his name in 104 T20Is.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devon-conway-tim-southee-help-new-zealand-thrash-australia-by-89-runs-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527600">Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022</a>

Southee was brilliant with the new ball as he dismissed Australian opener David Warner on the very first ball he bowled in the game before removing the likes of Mitchell Marsh and Pat Cummins cheaply to set up New Zealand's comprehensive win against the defending champions.

Batting first in the game, New Zealand managed to post a big total of 200 runs on the board with the help of Conway's 92 and Finn Allen's brilliant cameo of 16-ball 42. In reply, the Australian batters crumbled under pressure as the hosts were bundled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a humiliating 89-run loss.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-player-is-not-picked-to-play-10-balls-gambhir-explains-why-india-should-play-pant-over-karthik-in-t20-wc-527574">A player is not picked to play 10 balls: Gambhir explains why India should play Pant over Karthik in T20 WC</a>

New Zealand had not won a white-ball game in Australia since 2013 but managed to bring an end to their long-standing jinx with a stellar performance at the SCG. They will be looking to continue their winning run in their next game against Afghanistan on Wednesday.

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pipped Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the highest wicket-taker in T20Is on Saturday (October 22). Southee achieved the elusive feat during New Zealand's clash against defending champions Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney after delivering a masterclass with the ball.

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pipped Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the highest wicket-taker in T20Is on Saturday (October 22). Southee achieved the elusive feat during New Zealand's clash against defending champions Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney after delivering a masterclass with the ball. Southee was the pick of the bowlers for the Kiwis as New Zealand thrashed Australia by89 runs to hand the hosts their biggest defeat in a T20I. New Zealand rode on opener Devon Conway's unbeaten 92 off 58 balls and Southee's three-wicket haul to get off to a winning start in the tournament. Heading into the game, Southee was joint-top on the list of highest wicket-takers in T20Is with Shakib as both players had 122 scalps under their belt. However, the New Zealand pacer finished with a three-wicket haul against the Aussies to extend his tally to 125 wickets in 101 matches and become the leading wicket-taker in T20Is. Shakib has 122 wickets to his name in 104 T20Is. Also Read: Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022 Southee was brilliant with the new ball as he dismissed Australian opener David Warner on the very first ball he bowled in the game before removing the likes of Mitchell Marsh and Pat Cummins cheaply to set up New Zealand's comprehensive win against the defending champions. Batting first in the game, New Zealand managed to post a big total of 200 runs on the board with the help of Conway's 92 and Finn Allen's brilliant cameo of 16-ball 42. In reply, the Australian batters crumbled under pressure as the hosts were bundled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a humiliating 89-run loss. Also Read: A player is not picked to play 10 balls: Gambhir explains why India should play Pant over Karthik in T20 WC New Zealand had not won a white-ball game in Australia since 2013 but managed to bring an end to their long-standing jinx with a stellar performance at the SCG. They will be looking to continue their winning run in their next game against Afghanistan on Wednesday.

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is

New Zealand demolished hosts and defending champions Australia by 89 runs in their opening game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 to get off to a flying start in the tournament. The Kiwis produced an excellent all-round performance to outclass Australia in all three departments at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney to bring an end to their 11-year-long wait for a win in a white-ball game in Australia.

New Zealand rode on a stunning knock of an unbeaten 92 from opener Devon Conway and a bowling masterclass from Tim Southee to register a comprehensive win in their opening game of the showpiece event. Asked to bat first in the game, the Kiwis got off to a solid start as openers Fin Allen and Conway took the Aussie bowlers to the cleaners.

Allen went after the hosts from the word go as he scored a quickfire 42 off just 16 balls to add 56 runs for the first wicket with Conway before being cleaned up by Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;

Conway took charge after Allen's departure and slammed seven fours and two sixes en route to his 58-ball 92. While he missed out on a well-deserved century, the left-hander's terrific knock helped New Zealand post a strong total of 200 runs on the board as the Aussie bowlers struggled for wickets.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-calls-man-utd-manager-erik-ten-hag-a-clown-for-disprespecting-cristiano-ronaldo-527594">Kevin Pietersen calls Man Utd manager Erik Ten Hag a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo</a>

Josh Hazlewood was the top wicket-taker for Australia with two wickets to his name but ended up conceding 41 runs off his quota of four overs in what was a disappointing outing for the fast bowler. The likes of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were also taken to the cleaners by Conway and Allen among others.

In reply, Australia's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards as the defending champions kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Glenn Maxwell top-scored with 28 off 20 balls as the hosts were skittled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a comprehensive defeat in their first game in the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrap-asia-cup-dont-bring-politics-into-cricket-javed-miandad-slams-bcci-after-jay-shahs-comments-527557">Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments</a>

New Zealand registered their first win against Australia in a white-ball game in Australia since February 2009 while the Aussies recorded their lowest total in a T20I match at home and suffered their biggest defeat in T20Is. It was also New Zealand's biggest win by the margins of runs in a T20 World Cup game.

The huge defeat has left Australia wounded and the defending champions will be eager to bounce back when they ock horns with Sri Lanka in their next game in Perth on Tuesday while New Zealand will be hoping to continue their winning run against Afghanistan in their next game on Wednesday.

New Zealand demolished hosts and defending champions Australia by 89 runs in their opening game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 to get off to a flying start in the tournament.

New Zealand demolished hosts and defending champions Australia by 89 runs in their opening game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 to get off to a flying start in the tournament. The Kiwis produced an excellent all-round performance to outclass Australia in all three departments at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney to bring an end to their 11-year-long wait for a win in a white-ball game in Australia. New Zealand rode on a stunning knock of an unbeaten 92 from opener Devon Conway and a bowling masterclass from Tim Southee to register a comprehensive win in their opening game of the showpiece event. Asked to bat first in the game, the Kiwis got off to a solid start as openers Fin Allen and Conway took the Aussie bowlers to the cleaners. Allen went after the hosts from the word go as he scored a quickfire 42 off just 16 balls to add 56 runs for the first wicket with Conway before being cleaned up by Josh Hazlewood. Conway took charge after Allen's departure and slammed seven fours and two sixes en route to his 58-ball 92. While he missed out on a well-deserved century, the left-hander's terrific knock helped New Zealand post a strong total of 200 runs on the board as the Aussie bowlers struggled for wickets. Also Read: Kevin Pietersen calls Man Utd manager Erik Ten Hag a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo Josh Hazlewood was the top wicket-taker for Australia with two wickets to his name but ended up conceding 41 runs off his quota of four overs in what was a disappointing outing for the fast bowler. The likes of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were also taken to the cleaners by Conway and Allen among others. In reply, Australia's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards as the defending champions kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Glenn Maxwell top-scored with 28 off 20 balls as the hosts were skittled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a comprehensive defeat in their first game in the tournament. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments New Zealand registered their first win against Australia in a white-ball game in Australia since February 2009 while the Aussies recorded their lowest total in a T20I match at home and suffered their biggest defeat in T20Is. It was also New Zealand's biggest win by the margins of runs in a T20 World Cup game. The huge defeat has left Australia wounded and the defending champions will be eager to bounce back when they ock horns with Sri Lanka in their next game in Perth on Tuesday while New Zealand will be hoping to continue their winning run against Afghanistan in their next game on Wednesday.

Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022

Former England cricket team captain Kevin Pietersen slammed Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag branding him a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo has been dropped from Manchester United's squad to face Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday after he refused to come on as a substitute and left the stadium before the full-time whistle during United's 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday.

While Ronaldo was criticised by many for his antics, the Portuguese superstar has also managed to find support from his cult fans, who have lashed out at Ten Hag over his treatment of the club legend. Pietersen launched a scathing attack on Ten Hag after Manchester United took to Instagram to share a post featuring cricketers who have visited their stadium.

Hopping on to the T20 World Cup trend, United portrayed how several top cricketers over the years have enjoyed their time at Old Trafford and spent time with those associated with the club. Pietersen was one of the cricketers included in United's post.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-consequences-erik-ten-hag-confirms-cristiano-ronaldo-refused-to-come-on-as-a-sub-against-spurs-527429">'There are consequences': Ten Hag confirms Ronaldo refused to come on as a sub against Spurs</a>

The England cricket great, who is a Chelsea fan, demanded United to take his photo down while slamming Ten Hag for his treatment of Ronaldo, who he regards as the greatest footballer of the present era.&nbsp;

"Please take my picture down? I don't want an association with a club that's managed by a clown who is completely disrespecting the greatest footballer of our time. @cristiano is the BOSS! That clown who no one will ever remember needs a wake up!," read Pietersen's comment which has now been removed.

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United were quick to take down Pietersen's picture from their post and also removed his comment from the comments section.

Ronaldo, who has struggled to start games under Ten Hag this season, was an unused substitute on the bench in the club's 2-0 win against Spurs earlier this week. Ten Hag on Friday confirmed he wanted to bring the Portuguese on in the second half but he refused to come on.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-head-coach-xavi-explains-how-cristiano-ronaldo-made-lionel-messi-a-better-player-527406">Barcelona head coach Xavi explains how Cristiano Ronaldo made Lionel Messi a better player</a>

Ronaldo was seen storming down the tunnel with a few minutes left for the game to finish and left the stadium before the final whistle.

He has been punished by the United manager for his actions and has been dropped from the squad to face Chelsea. Ronaldo has been asked to train with the United U-21s but is likely to return to the main squad in a few days. When asked about his behaviour, Ten Hag said the 37-year-old will have to face consequences as his actions were unacceptable.

Former England cricket team captain Kevin Pietersen slammed Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag branding him a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo has been dropped from Manchester United's squad to face Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday after he refused to come on as a substitute and left the stadium before the full-time whistle during United's 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday.

Former England cricket team captain Kevin Pietersen slammed Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag branding him a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo has been dropped from Manchester United's squad to face Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday after he refused to come on as a substitute and left the stadium before the full-time whistle during United's 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. While Ronaldo was criticised by many for his antics, the Portuguese superstar has also managed to find support from his cult fans, who have lashed out at Ten Hag over his treatment of the club legend. Pietersen launched a scathing attack on Ten Hag after Manchester United took to Instagram to share a post featuring cricketers who have visited their stadium. Hopping on to the T20 World Cup trend, United portrayed how several top cricketers over the years have enjoyed their time at Old Trafford and spent time with those associated with the club. Pietersen was one of the cricketers included in United's post. Also Read: 'There are consequences': Ten Hag confirms Ronaldo refused to come on as a sub against Spurs The England cricket great, who is a Chelsea fan, demanded United to take his photo down while slamming Ten Hag for his treatment of Ronaldo, who he regards as the greatest footballer of the present era. "Please take my picture down? I don't want an association with a club that's managed by a clown who is completely disrespecting the greatest footballer of our time. @cristiano is the BOSS! That clown who no one will ever remember needs a wake up!," read Pietersen's comment which has now been removed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manchester United (@manchesterunited) × United were quick to take down Pietersen's picture from their post and also removed his comment from the comments section. Ronaldo, who has struggled to start games under Ten Hag this season, was an unused substitute on the bench in the club's 2-0 win against Spurs earlier this week. Ten Hag on Friday confirmed he wanted to bring the Portuguese on in the second half but he refused to come on. Also Read: Barcelona head coach Xavi explains how Cristiano Ronaldo made Lionel Messi a better player Ronaldo was seen storming down the tunnel with a few minutes left for the game to finish and left the stadium before the final whistle. He has been punished by the United manager for his actions and has been dropped from the squad to face Chelsea. Ronaldo has been asked to train with the United U-21s but is likely to return to the main squad in a few days. When asked about his behaviour, Ten Hag said the 37-year-old will have to face consequences as his actions were unacceptable.

Kevin Pietersen calls Man Utd manager Erik Ten Hag a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Saturday criticised television broadcasters who have offered "100 times less" to screen the Women's World Cup compared to the men's.

Infantino was speaking in Auckland hours before the draw for next year's Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, and with women's football breaking new ground.

The World Cup in July-August will have 32 teams for the first time and global interest is anticipated to be at an all-time high.

But without naming specific broadcasters, Infantino said offers submitted for the television rights were far too low.

"Broadcasters offer us 100 times less than what they offer us for the men's World Cup," Infantino told reporters.

He accused television companies of "pushing us to do more for equality and at the same time we are not going to accept these offers".

Infantino said that FIFA had invested one billion dollars into women's football in recent years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-scores-twice-as-psg-beat-ajaccio-3-0-in-ligue1-527567">Kylian Mbappe scores twice as PSG beat Ajaccio 3-0 in Ligue1</a>

The 2015 and 2019 Women's World Cups made a financial loss, but Infantino said: "The next World Cup will cost us around $400 million and we hope to break even."

For the first time, FIFA plans to sell the commercial rights separate from the men's tournament.

"We are trying to commercialise the Women's World Cup for the first time on its own," he said.

The FIFA boss also doubled down on assurances that gay fans who travel to Qatar for the men's World Cup next month will be safe, despite homosexuality being a criminal offence there.

"I have said it (before), I repeat it -- whatever nationality, background, gender, sexual orientation, everyone is welcome in Qatar," Infantino said.

Infantino also confirmed that the FIFA Clearing House, aimed at regulating the extra payments around transfer fees, will come into force on November 16.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-consequences-erik-ten-hag-confirms-cristiano-ronaldo-refused-to-come-on-as-a-sub-against-spurs-527429">'There are consequences': Erik Ten Hag confirms Cristiano Ronaldo refused to come on as a sub against Spurs</a>

"This will finally bring some transparency and accountability into the whole transfer market," said Infantino.

"Payments to strange places or strange bank accounts will not be tolerated any more."

He said the transfer market currently generates about six to seven billion dollars every year and predicts the figure will rise.

"We want to control that and make sure the money goes where it is supposed to."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Saturday criticised television broadcasters who have offered "100 times less" to screen the Women's World Cup compared to the men's.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Saturday criticised television broadcasters who have offered "100 times less" to screen the Women's World Cup compared to the men's. Infantino was speaking in Auckland hours before the draw for next year's Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, and with women's football breaking new ground. The World Cup in July-August will have 32 teams for the first time and global interest is anticipated to be at an all-time high. But without naming specific broadcasters, Infantino said offers submitted for the television rights were far too low. "Broadcasters offer us 100 times less than what they offer us for the men's World Cup," Infantino told reporters. He accused television companies of "pushing us to do more for equality and at the same time we are not going to accept these offers". Infantino said that FIFA had invested one billion dollars into women's football in recent years. Also Read: Kylian Mbappe scores twice as PSG beat Ajaccio 3-0 in Ligue1 The 2015 and 2019 Women's World Cups made a financial loss, but Infantino said: "The next World Cup will cost us around $400 million and we hope to break even." For the first time, FIFA plans to sell the commercial rights separate from the men's tournament. "We are trying to commercialise the Women's World Cup for the first time on its own," he said. The FIFA boss also doubled down on assurances that gay fans who travel to Qatar for the men's World Cup next month will be safe, despite homosexuality being a criminal offence there. "I have said it (before), I repeat it -- whatever nationality, background, gender, sexual orientation, everyone is welcome in Qatar," Infantino said. Infantino also confirmed that the FIFA Clearing House, aimed at regulating the extra payments around transfer fees, will come into force on November 16. Also Read: 'There are consequences': Erik Ten Hag confirms Cristiano Ronaldo refused to come on as a sub against Spurs "This will finally bring some transparency and accountability into the whole transfer market," said Infantino. "Payments to strange places or strange bank accounts will not be tolerated any more." He said the transfer market currently generates about six to seven billion dollars every year and predicts the figure will rise. "We want to control that and make sure the money goes where it is supposed to."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino says broadcasters offer '100 times less' for Women's World Cup

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has warned captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management against playing Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. The 2007 T20 World Cup winner believes the decision to play Karthik, who has been effective only in slog overs can backfire for India at the World Cup.

While Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has confirmed he has already decided the playing XI for the team's opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022, the debate surrounding the team combination has not died down. One of the major selection headaches for India is the wicket-keeper's slot with Karthik and Pant competing against each other.

While Pant holds a significant advantage in being a left-hander in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian team management has recently backed Karthik over the young gun considering his finishing exploits. The 37-year-old has been phenomenal down the order and has played numerous match-winning cameos for the Indian team as a finisher.

However, Gambhir believes India should not pick a batter specifically to play only ten balls and that the strategy can prove to be dangerous when India lose early wickets. The former India opener said he would pick Pant to bat at number five in his playing XI with Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel batting at no.6 and no.7 respectively.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrap-asia-cup-dont-bring-politics-into-cricket-javed-miandad-slams-bcci-after-jay-shahs-comments-527557">Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments</a>

"In my playing XI, Rishabh Pant should play at No.5, Hardik Pandya at No.6, and Axar Patel at No.7. But what we have seen in the practice matches is that Dinesh Karthik will play. But a player is not picked to play just 10 balls. You should pick a player so that he can bat at No.5 or 6. But Dinesh Karthik has not shown that intention," Gambhir told Zee News.&nbsp;

"He and the team management have shown the intention that he will bat only in the last 2-3 overs and that can be dangerous because in Australia, if you lose early wickets, you might have to send in Axar Patel early because you also wouldn't want to expose Hardik early. That is why I picked Pant in my playing XI. But again, that won't happen," he added.

While India's top four is already sorted with captain Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav walking into the XI, Gambhir feels India should play with three specialist fast bowlers in Australia. He picked Mohammed Shami as his first-choice pacer and backed Harshal Patel as the death overs specialist.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointed-to-have-not-won-an-icc-trophy-in-9-years-t20-wc-gives-us-a-chance-to-change-it-rohit-sharma-527551">Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma</a>

The former India opener wants the team management to select one between Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh while using Hardik Pandya as the fourth pacer.&nbsp;

"You will have to play with three pacers. Mohammed Shami should be picked first, before Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshal Patel. Hardik Pandya will be the fourth seamer and the sixth bowling option. The quality Shami has, we know he is very effective with the new ball, but with the old ball, which we all saw in the match against Australia. So, Shami first. One of Bhuvneshwar or Arshdeep should be picked. Harshal should be picked because he does have some experience bowling in the death," said Gambhir.

India will lock horns with Pakistan in their opening game in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India have lost twice in their last three meetings against the Men in Green and will be looking to set the record straight this time around.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has warned captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management against playing Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has warned captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management against playing Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. The 2007 T20 World Cup winner believes the decision to play Karthik, who has been effective only in slog overs can backfire for India at the World Cup. While Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has confirmed he has already decided the playing XI for the team's opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022, the debate surrounding the team combination has not died down. One of the major selection headaches for India is the wicket-keeper's slot with Karthik and Pant competing against each other. While Pant holds a significant advantage in being a left-hander in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian team management has recently backed Karthik over the young gun considering his finishing exploits. The 37-year-old has been phenomenal down the order and has played numerous match-winning cameos for the Indian team as a finisher. However, Gambhir believes India should not pick a batter specifically to play only ten balls and that the strategy can prove to be dangerous when India lose early wickets. The former India opener said he would pick Pant to bat at number five in his playing XI with Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel batting at no.6 and no.7 respectively. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments "In my playing XI, Rishabh Pant should play at No.5, Hardik Pandya at No.6, and Axar Patel at No.7. But what we have seen in the practice matches is that Dinesh Karthik will play. But a player is not picked to play just 10 balls. You should pick a player so that he can bat at No.5 or 6. But Dinesh Karthik has not shown that intention," Gambhir told Zee News. "He and the team management have shown the intention that he will bat only in the last 2-3 overs and that can be dangerous because in Australia, if you lose early wickets, you might have to send in Axar Patel early because you also wouldn't want to expose Hardik early. That is why I picked Pant in my playing XI. But again, that won't happen," he added. While India's top four is already sorted with captain Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav walking into the XI, Gambhir feels India should play with three specialist fast bowlers in Australia. He picked Mohammed Shami as his first-choice pacer and backed Harshal Patel as the death overs specialist. Also Read: Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma The former India opener wants the team management to select one between Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh while using Hardik Pandya as the fourth pacer. "You will have to play with three pacers. Mohammed Shami should be picked first, before Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshal Patel. Hardik Pandya will be the fourth seamer and the sixth bowling option. The quality Shami has, we know he is very effective with the new ball, but with the old ball, which we all saw in the match against Australia. So, Shami first. One of Bhuvneshwar or Arshdeep should be picked. Harshal should be picked because he does have some experience bowling in the death," said Gambhir. India will lock horns with Pakistan in their opening game in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India have lost twice in their last three meetings against the Men in Green and will be looking to set the record straight this time around.

A player is not picked to play 10 balls: Gambhir explains why India should play Pant over Karthik in T20 WC

Kylian Mbappe scored two goals to help Paris St Germain to a comfortable 3-0 win at Ajaccio on Friday, maintaining their unbeaten run in Ligue 1 this season.

The first 10 minutes were an even affair, with Ajaccio trying to keep the ball and build possession while PSG forwards waited for a chance to attack.

Ajaccio carved out the first chance of the game when Mounaim El Idrissy missed a shot from a difficult angle in the fourth minute.

Ajaccio keeper Benjamin Leroy then denied Lionel Messi when he saved a deflected free-kick effort in the 13th minute.

The deadlock was broken in the 24th minute when French forward Mbappe picked up a through ball from Argentine Messi and lifted it over Leroy to give PSG the lead.

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PSG had several chances to increase their advantage and the hosts were lucky to go into the break with just a one-goal deficit.

The second half was mostly uneventful until the last 20 minutes, with Leroy forced into action a few times.

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The game was put to bed when Messi scored PSG's second from close range after he received a through ball from Mbappe and rounded Leroy in the 78th minute.

Mbappe grabbed his second eight minutes before fulltime with a shot from the edge of the box that went into the bottom left corner to seal an easy win for the defending champions that keeps them top of the standings on 32 points from 12 games. Ajaccio are 18th.

Kylian Mbappe scored two goals to help Paris St Germain to a comfortable 3-0 win at Ajaccio on Friday, maintaining their unbeaten run in Ligue 1 this season. The first 10 minutes were an even affair, with Ajaccio trying to keep the ball and build possession while PSG forwards waited for a chance to attack.

Kylian Mbappe scored two goals to help Paris St Germain to a comfortable 3-0 win at Ajaccio on Friday, maintaining their unbeaten run in Ligue 1 this season. The first 10 minutes were an even affair, with Ajaccio trying to keep the ball and build possession while PSG forwards waited for a chance to attack. Ajaccio carved out the first chance of the game when Mounaim El Idrissy missed a shot from a difficult angle in the fourth minute. Ajaccio keeper Benjamin Leroy then denied Lionel Messi when he saved a deflected free-kick effort in the 13th minute. The deadlock was broken in the 24th minute when French forward Mbappe picked up a through ball from Argentine Messi and lifted it over Leroy to give PSG the lead. Also Read: 'There are consequences': Erik Ten Hag confirms Cristiano Ronaldo refused to come on as a sub against Spurs PSG had several chances to increase their advantage and the hosts were lucky to go into the break with just a one-goal deficit. The second half was mostly uneventful until the last 20 minutes, with Leroy forced into action a few times. Also Read: Barcelona head coach Xavi explains how Cristiano Ronaldo made Lionel Messi a better player The game was put to bed when Messi scored PSG's second from close range after he received a through ball from Mbappe and rounded Leroy in the 78th minute. Mbappe grabbed his second eight minutes before fulltime with a shot from the edge of the box that went into the bottom left corner to seal an easy win for the defending champions that keeps them top of the standings on 32 points from 12 games. Ajaccio are 18th.

Kylian Mbappe scores twice as PSG beat Ajaccio 3-0 in Ligue1

Pakistan cricket legend Javed Miandad has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its stand on the Asia Cup 2023 after Jsecretary Jay Shah's recent comments. BCCI secretary and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Shah kicked up a storm in the cricket fraternity with his recent comments as he made it clear India won't travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup next year.

Shah said the tournament will be shifted to a neutral venue despite Pakistan currently holding the hosting rights for Asia Cup 2023. His statement has been criticised by several former Pakistan cricketers, who have slammed the BCCI for refusing to travel to the country for the tournament.

Some have also urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to boycott the ODI World Cup in India next year as a mark of protest if the Asia Cup is shifted from Pakistan. Miandad became the latest to join the bandwagon and said Asia Cup should be scrapped if the tournament cannot be hosted by Pakistan. He also urged the BCCI to not bring politics into cricket.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-final-list-of-all-super-12-teams-confirmed-as-ireland-zimbabwe-clinch-final-two-spots-527470">T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots</a>

"What's the point of ICC? Scrap the Asia Cup if that's the case. We are in Asia. We will only benefit from playing each other. You shouldn't bring politics into cricket. I request every one for the sake of players. This pick-and-choose is wrong, you should stop playing cricket otherwise," said Miandad.

Asia Cup was shifted to a neutral venue in UAE due to political reasons in 2018 when India were the hosts of the tournament. The tournament was once again moved to the UAE earlier this year as Sri Lanka, the hosts, were dealing with an economic crisis.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointed-to-have-not-won-an-icc-trophy-in-9-years-t20-wc-gives-us-a-chance-to-change-it-rohit-sharma-527551">Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma</a>

However, Shah's recent comments about shifting the tournament to a neutral venue next year has not gone down well with many in the Pakistan cricket fraternity While the former players have criticised the BCCI for its stand, the PCB had recently threatened that India's decision to not travel to Pakistan can impact Pakistan's participation in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Pakistan cricket legend Javed Miandad has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its stand on the Asia Cup 2023 after Jsecretary Jay Shah's recent comments.

Pakistan cricket legend Javed Miandad has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its stand on the Asia Cup 2023 after Jsecretary Jay Shah's recent comments. BCCI secretary and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Shah kicked up a storm in the cricket fraternity with his recent comments as he made it clear India won't travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup next year. Shah said the tournament will be shifted to a neutral venue despite Pakistan currently holding the hosting rights for Asia Cup 2023. His statement has been criticised by several former Pakistan cricketers, who have slammed the BCCI for refusing to travel to the country for the tournament. Some have also urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to boycott the ODI World Cup in India next year as a mark of protest if the Asia Cup is shifted from Pakistan. Miandad became the latest to join the bandwagon and said Asia Cup should be scrapped if the tournament cannot be hosted by Pakistan. He also urged the BCCI to not bring politics into cricket. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots "What's the point of ICC? Scrap the Asia Cup if that's the case. We are in Asia. We will only benefit from playing each other. You shouldn't bring politics into cricket. I request every one for the sake of players. This pick-and-choose is wrong, you should stop playing cricket otherwise," said Miandad. Asia Cup was shifted to a neutral venue in UAE due to political reasons in 2018 when India were the hosts of the tournament. The tournament was once again moved to the UAE earlier this year as Sri Lanka, the hosts, were dealing with an economic crisis. Also Read: Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma However, Shah's recent comments about shifting the tournament to a neutral venue next year has not gone down well with many in the Pakistan cricket fraternity While the former players have criticised the BCCI for its stand, the PCB had recently threatened that India's decision to not travel to Pakistan can impact Pakistan's participation in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest.

India have not won an ICC trophy in nine years now as their last triumph came under the legendary MS Dhoni at the Champions Trophy in 2013. India have since been part of two ODI and three T20I World Cups, however, they have failed to go the distance.

India came close to ending the drought in the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the ICC Test Championship last year but ended up faltering towards the end.&nbsp;Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who is gearing up to lead the team in his first-ever T20 World Cup, said there is disappointment among the players as India have not managed to win an ICC trophy in nine years.

However, the Hitman expressed confidence that the ongoing T20 World Cup gives India a chance to set the record straight.&nbsp;Speaking at the pre-match presser ahead of India's much-awaited clash against Pakistan on Sunday, Rohit said there is pressure in a big tournament but the Men in Blue would like to focus on one game at a time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-final-list-of-all-super-12-teams-confirmed-as-ireland-zimbabwe-clinch-final-two-spots-527470">T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots</a>

"Yes, it is a challenge to not win ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there is lot of expectations, we certainly little disappointed with that," said Rohit speaking about India's ICC trophy drought.

"This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead," he added.

Rohit, who took over from Virat Kohli as the captain of the Indian team in all three formats earlier this year, spoke about how he has worked on little things as a leader to give his players the confidence they require to go out and perform at the highest level.&nbsp;

"The most important thing was to give players freedom, giving them the security to do well in challenging situations. We focused on how to give players the security without worrying about results. These small things matter a lot, in this last one year, us not focusing on results, we wanted to focus on small things. We were thinking about how we can play fearlessly. We were talking about it in our dressing room," said the Indian skipper.

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India were unbeaten in the bilateral T20I series under Rohit's captaincy since he took charge of the team. However, the team disappointed in the Asia Cup 2022 where they failed to make it to the final after losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Rohit will be hoping to inspire the team to go the distance in the T20 World Cup down under.

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest.

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest. India have not won an ICC trophy in nine years now as their last triumph came under the legendary MS Dhoni at the Champions Trophy in 2013. India have since been part of two ODI and three T20I World Cups, however, they have failed to go the distance. India came close to ending the drought in the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the ICC Test Championship last year but ended up faltering towards the end. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who is gearing up to lead the team in his first-ever T20 World Cup, said there is disappointment among the players as India have not managed to win an ICC trophy in nine years. However, the Hitman expressed confidence that the ongoing T20 World Cup gives India a chance to set the record straight. Speaking at the pre-match presser ahead of India's much-awaited clash against Pakistan on Sunday, Rohit said there is pressure in a big tournament but the Men in Blue would like to focus on one game at a time. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots "Yes, it is a challenge to not win ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there is lot of expectations, we certainly little disappointed with that," said Rohit speaking about India's ICC trophy drought. "This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead," he added. Rohit, who took over from Virat Kohli as the captain of the Indian team in all three formats earlier this year, spoke about how he has worked on little things as a leader to give his players the confidence they require to go out and perform at the highest level. "The most important thing was to give players freedom, giving them the security to do well in challenging situations. We focused on how to give players the security without worrying about results. These small things matter a lot, in this last one year, us not focusing on results, we wanted to focus on small things. We were thinking about how we can play fearlessly. We were talking about it in our dressing room," said the Indian skipper. Also Read: Virender Sehwag picks Pakistan star to finish as highest run-getter in T20 World Cup 2022 India were unbeaten in the bilateral T20I series under Rohit's captaincy since he took charge of the team. However, the team disappointed in the Asia Cup 2022 where they failed to make it to the final after losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Rohit will be hoping to inspire the team to go the distance in the T20 World Cup down under.

Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma

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