India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, on Wednesday (August 31). Rohit Sharma-led India was asked to bat first and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's entertaining 26-ball 68* and Virat Kohli's 44-ball 59 not out to post 192-2 and restricted the minnows for 152-5 to earn an easy win. While India didn't break a lot of sweat after posting a mammoth total, Hong Kong did put up a spirited show in parts.

Hong Kong bowlers didn't allow India to dictate terms with the bat during the first half of their innings. At halfway stage, India were 70-1 and before SKY-Kohli's heroics in the death overs. When India weren't accelerating as much as they would've wanted to, a bulk of criticism came down to KL Rahul. The vice-captain, who returned to international cricket after a long gap, was struggling with his timing and didn't show much intent. Thus, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad lashed out at him on Twitter during the proceedings on Wednesday (August 31), held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

"Is there something in the pitch that is not visible? Simply can't fathom this approach, especially from KL Rahul. #IndvsHkg" Prasad wrote on Twitter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-6-6-6-0-6-suryakumar-yadav-goes-bonkers-vs-hong-kong-breaks-asia-cup-t20-record-in-20th-over-511947">Watch: 6, 6, 6, 0, 6, 2! Suryakumar Yadav goes bonkers vs Hong Kong, breaks Asia Cup T20 record in 20th over</a>

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Is there something in the pitch that is not visible. Simply can't fathom this approach especially from KL Rahul. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsHkg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsHkg</a>
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Rahul opened the innings and fell on the last ball of the 13th over, departing for an unimpressive 39-ball 36. He managed to hit only two fours and ended with a strike rate of less than 100, i.e. 92.31. After the proceedings, Player-of-the-Match SKY addressed the post-match press conference and defended Rahul's approach.&nbsp;

Answering a reporter's query on Rahul, Surya said, "(Smiles) Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye? (So you mean to say that KL should be dropped?). He (Rahul) is coming back from injury, he also needs some time. We have some time right now."

Rahul will be eager to regain his rhythm as the tournament progresses ahead in the UAE. India are set to face the winner of Pakistan-Hong Kong in their first clash in the Super Four round, on Sunday (September 04) at the same venue in Dubai.&nbsp;

India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, on Wednesday (August 31). Rohit Sharma-led India was asked to bat first and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's entertaining 26-ball 68* and Virat Kohli's 44-ball 59 not out to post 192-2 and restricted the minnows for 152-5 to earn an easy win.

India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, on Wednesday (August 31). Rohit Sharma-led India was asked to bat first and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's entertaining 26-ball 68* and Virat Kohli's 44-ball 59 not out to post 192-2 and restricted the minnows for 152-5 to earn an easy win. While India didn't break a lot of sweat after posting a mammoth total, Hong Kong did put up a spirited show in parts. Hong Kong bowlers didn't allow India to dictate terms with the bat during the first half of their innings. At halfway stage, India were 70-1 and before SKY-Kohli's heroics in the death overs. When India weren't accelerating as much as they would've wanted to, a bulk of criticism came down to KL Rahul. The vice-captain, who returned to international cricket after a long gap, was struggling with his timing and didn't show much intent. Thus, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad lashed out at him on Twitter during the proceedings on Wednesday (August 31), held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. "Is there something in the pitch that is not visible? Simply can't fathom this approach, especially from KL Rahul. #IndvsHkg" Prasad wrote on Twitter. ALSO READ | Watch: 6, 6, 6, 0, 6, 2! Suryakumar Yadav goes bonkers vs Hong Kong, breaks Asia Cup T20 record in 20th over Is there something in the pitch that is not visible. Simply can't fathom this approach especially from KL Rahul. #IndvsHkg — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) August 31, 2022 × Rahul opened the innings and fell on the last ball of the 13th over, departing for an unimpressive 39-ball 36. He managed to hit only two fours and ended with a strike rate of less than 100, i.e. 92.31. After the proceedings, Player-of-the-Match SKY addressed the post-match press conference and defended Rahul's approach. Answering a reporter's query on Rahul, Surya said, "(Smiles) Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye? (So you mean to say that KL should be dropped?). He (Rahul) is coming back from injury, he also needs some time. We have some time right now." Rahul will be eager to regain his rhythm as the tournament progresses ahead in the UAE. India are set to face the winner of Pakistan-Hong Kong in their first clash in the Super Four round, on Sunday (September 04) at the same venue in Dubai.

'Can't fathom this approach': Venkatesh Prasad lashes out at KL Rahul after unimpressive knock vs Hong Kong

Dutch athlete Soloman Bockarie -- &nbsp;part of the Netherlands 4x100m relay team -- failed his doping test by testing positive&nbsp;for growth hormone GHRP-2 during an out-of-competition check last month and went on to claim that he didn't consume any of the banned substance. Now, in a bizarre statement, Bockarie has shifted the blame for failing the dope test to having 'chicken with hormones'.

"I don’t know how this product got into my body,” Bockarie was quoted as saying by the Netherlands public broadcaster,&nbsp;NOS. He added, "I only know one thing for sure. And that is that I have not used doping. If anyone is vehemently against using banned stimulants, it’s me. "I have a lot of questions about this check and the results. Let me emphasize that an athlete is at all times responsible for the substances found in his body. But in this case, so much is unclear that I would like some clarification."

In a report by the&nbsp;NOS, it was mentioned&nbsp;that Bockarie’s spokesperson Robbin Pieterman had blamed the cheap chicken bought by the athlete in the market&nbsp;in&nbsp;The Hague. "It could be that this chicken had been treated with hormones and that he got this hormone in his body from eating this chicken,"&nbsp;Pieterman was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogbas-brother-mathias-makes-shocking-allegations-accuses-juventus-star-of-witchcraft-511251">Paul Pogba's brother Mathias makes shocking allegations, accuses Juventus star of witchcraft</a>

"Fortunately, Solomon still has pieces of this chicken at home. We will try to have it examined to show that the hormone entered Solomon’s body through this route,” he further opined.

While it might sound like a bizarre claim, Bockarie has made his feelings known courtesy of some strong remarks. Given his spokesperson is confident that it was the cheap chicken consumption that caused the Olympics athlete to fail the dope test, it will be interesting to see if they can give a more clearer picture in this regard. The 35-year-old athlete was part of the Netherlands'&nbsp;relay team at the Rio and Tokyo Olympics.

Dutch athlete Soloman Bockarie -- part of the Netherlands 4x100m relay team -- failed his doping test by testing positive for growth hormone GHRP-2 during an out-of-competition check last month and went on to claim that he didn't consume any of the banned substance.

Dutch athlete Soloman Bockarie -- part of the Netherlands 4x100m relay team -- failed his doping test by testing positive for growth hormone GHRP-2 during an out-of-competition check last month and went on to claim that he didn't consume any of the banned substance. Now, in a bizarre statement, Bockarie has shifted the blame for failing the dope test to having 'chicken with hormones'. "I don’t know how this product got into my body,” Bockarie was quoted as saying by the Netherlands public broadcaster, NOS. He added, "I only know one thing for sure. And that is that I have not used doping. If anyone is vehemently against using banned stimulants, it’s me. "I have a lot of questions about this check and the results. Let me emphasize that an athlete is at all times responsible for the substances found in his body. But in this case, so much is unclear that I would like some clarification." In a report by the NOS, it was mentioned that Bockarie’s spokesperson Robbin Pieterman had blamed the cheap chicken bought by the athlete in the market in The Hague. "It could be that this chicken had been treated with hormones and that he got this hormone in his body from eating this chicken," Pieterman was quoted as saying. ALSO READ | Paul Pogba's brother Mathias makes shocking allegations, accuses Juventus star of witchcraft "Fortunately, Solomon still has pieces of this chicken at home. We will try to have it examined to show that the hormone entered Solomon’s body through this route,” he further opined. While it might sound like a bizarre claim, Bockarie has made his feelings known courtesy of some strong remarks. Given his spokesperson is confident that it was the cheap chicken consumption that caused the Olympics athlete to fail the dope test, it will be interesting to see if they can give a more clearer picture in this regard. The 35-year-old athlete was part of the Netherlands' relay team at the Rio and Tokyo Olympics.

Bizarre! Solomon Bockarie fails dope test, Dutchman shifts blame on ‘chicken with hormones’

Moeen Ali, decades post the departure of his&nbsp;grandfather from Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for United Kingdom, is set to be back to his roots and lead England in what will be their first-ever visit to Pakistan in 17 years (since 2005).&nbsp;

England are set to tour Pakistan ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup -- for seven T20Is and a three-match Test series (in December) -- where Moeen is expected to lead the side, as per a report in The Guardian, in regular white-ball captain Jos Buttler's absence. With Buttler out of action due to a calf injury, he is racing against time to be fit and, hence, his deputy Moeen will lead in his absence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shame-on-you-pakistan-fans-troll-mohammad-amir-after-his-tweet-praising-hardik-pandya-post-indias-win-511595">'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win</a>

This won't be the first time that Moeen will lead England. The all-rounder had led the Three Lions in their third and final T20I versus visitors Australia, in Southampton, in September 2020. Back then, he had become&nbsp;the first Asian origin cricketer to captain England in any format after Nasser Hussain. If he leads the T20I side in Pakistan, it will be a special moment for the 35-year-old by all means.

Also, the series in Pakistan will be the first-ever for the England men’s team since 2005 as the subsequent contests between the two heavyweights were held by&nbsp;the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in United Arab Emirates. In September 2021, England Cricket Board (ECB) had decided to withdraw their tour of Pakistan following New Zealand citing security concerns to abandon their tour of the Asian country.

Moeen Ali, decades post the departure of his grandfather from Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for United Kingdom, is set to be back to his roots and lead England in what will be their first-ever visit to Pakistan in 17 years (since 2005).

Moeen Ali, decades post the departure of his grandfather from Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for United Kingdom, is set to be back to his roots and lead England in what will be their first-ever visit to Pakistan in 17 years (since 2005). England are set to tour Pakistan ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup -- for seven T20Is and a three-match Test series (in December) -- where Moeen is expected to lead the side, as per a report in The Guardian, in regular white-ball captain Jos Buttler's absence. With Buttler out of action due to a calf injury, he is racing against time to be fit and, hence, his deputy Moeen will lead in his absence. ALSO READ | 'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win This won't be the first time that Moeen will lead England. The all-rounder had led the Three Lions in their third and final T20I versus visitors Australia, in Southampton, in September 2020. Back then, he had become the first Asian origin cricketer to captain England in any format after Nasser Hussain. If he leads the T20I side in Pakistan, it will be a special moment for the 35-year-old by all means. Also, the series in Pakistan will be the first-ever for the England men’s team since 2005 as the subsequent contests between the two heavyweights were held by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in United Arab Emirates. In September 2021, England Cricket Board (ECB) had decided to withdraw their tour of Pakistan following New Zealand citing security concerns to abandon their tour of the Asian country.

Moeen Ali set to lead T20I side in Jos Buttler's absence during England's first visit to Pakistan in 17 years

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other, post the 2021 T20 World Cup clash, in the Asia Cup 2022 match on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. In a thrilling contest, India beat their arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets by chasing the 148-run target in the last over.&nbsp;

Before the clash, there were a lot of videos and pictures shared on social media platforms, depicting the healthy camaraderie between players from both sides. Virat Kohli-Babar Azam exchanged greetings whereas Rohit-Babar also had a healthy interaction. The likes of KL Rahul, Kohli, Rishabh Pant met injured Shaheen Afridi&nbsp;during both sides' practice sessions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shame-on-you-pakistan-fans-troll-mohammad-amir-after-his-tweet-praising-hardik-pandya-post-indias-win-511595">'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win</a>

With bio-bubble a thing of the past, fans in the UAE are also&nbsp;interacting&nbsp;with players from both the camps at regular intervals. Recently, Hasan Ali -- roped in after the original squad announcement as a replacement for&nbsp;injured speedster&nbsp;Mohammad Wasim jr -- also won hearts with his epic response to an Indian fan. The fan told Hasan, "You've a huge fan-following in India'. To this, the speedster said, "I love India".

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan</a>

It is to be noted that Hasan is married to an Indian. The couple tied the knot in 2019 in Dubai. Hasan wasn't named in Pakistan's playing XI for their clash versus India. It will be interesting to see if he gets a look-in in Babar &amp; Co.'s must-win clash versus Hong Kong on Friday (September 02).

Pakistan and India are expected to meet each other at least once more in the Asia Cup. If both teams get past minnows Hong Kong, they will lock horns once again on September 04 (Sunday) and can also meet in the tournament finale, on September 11.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other, post the 2021 T20 World Cup clash, in the Asia Cup 2022 match on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other, post the 2021 T20 World Cup clash, in the Asia Cup 2022 match on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. In a thrilling contest, India beat their arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets by chasing the 148-run target in the last over. Before the clash, there were a lot of videos and pictures shared on social media platforms, depicting the healthy camaraderie between players from both sides. Virat Kohli-Babar Azam exchanged greetings whereas Rohit-Babar also had a healthy interaction. The likes of KL Rahul, Kohli, Rishabh Pant met injured Shaheen Afridi during both sides' practice sessions. ALSO READ | 'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win With bio-bubble a thing of the past, fans in the UAE are also interacting with players from both the camps at regular intervals. Recently, Hasan Ali -- roped in after the original squad announcement as a replacement for injured speedster Mohammad Wasim jr -- also won hearts with his epic response to an Indian fan. The fan told Hasan, "You've a huge fan-following in India'. To this, the speedster said, "I love India". ALSO READ | WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan It is to be noted that Hasan is married to an Indian. The couple tied the knot in 2019 in Dubai. Hasan wasn't named in Pakistan's playing XI for their clash versus India. It will be interesting to see if he gets a look-in in Babar & Co.'s must-win clash versus Hong Kong on Friday (September 02). Pakistan and India are expected to meet each other at least once more in the Asia Cup. If both teams get past minnows Hong Kong, they will lock horns once again on September 04 (Sunday) and can also meet in the tournament finale, on September 11.

Indian fan tells Hasan Ali 'you've huge fan-following in India', pacer wins hearts with epic reply - WATCH

Hardik Pandya has become the man of the season. Hardik returned to competitive cricket in IPL 2022, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, and ended with 487 runs along with eight wickets and led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden IPL title.&nbsp;

Since then, there has been no looking back for the 28-year-old star all-rounder. Hardik has won games for India at regular intervals -- in the home South Africa T20Is, during the away series versus England and West Indies -- and was also the star performer for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. during their Asia Cup opener, versus Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday (August 28).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-kapil-dev-explains-why-virat-kohli-is-a-bigger-player-than-anyone-else-in-last-10-years-511754">Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years'</a>

While Hardik is performing in all departments, he is looking fit and also growing as a leader. The star cricketer's calm and composed nature is being hailed all across the cricketing fraternity. His confident nod to non-striker Dinesh Karthik just before hitting the winning shot versus Pakistan went viral, with many lauding his calmness and comparing it with MS Dhoni.

Recently, Hardik's GT coach and former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on his success and told in an interaction with ICC, "Yes, even I've observed it. And it is necessary. With time and experience, you learn things both as a human being and as a player. Pandya is no different. You might have seen him talking about it. He has said that he has learned different things from different experiences. Now he is married, father of a kid, and matured. With Agastya's arrival, he has become more calm and is more focused on his work," he added.

Hardik's form is a huge asset for India going ahead into the 2022 T20 World Cup. For now, he will be eager to guide India to the Asia Cup championship before the action moves to the ICC event, to be held from October-November in Australia.

Hardik Pandya has become the man of the season. Hardik returned to competitive cricket in IPL 2022, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, and ended with 487 runs along with eight wickets and led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden IPL title.

Hardik Pandya has become the man of the season. Hardik returned to competitive cricket in IPL 2022, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, and ended with 487 runs along with eight wickets and led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden IPL title. Since then, there has been no looking back for the 28-year-old star all-rounder. Hardik has won games for India at regular intervals -- in the home South Africa T20Is, during the away series versus England and West Indies -- and was also the star performer for Rohit Sharma & Co. during their Asia Cup opener, versus Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday (August 28). ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years' While Hardik is performing in all departments, he is looking fit and also growing as a leader. The star cricketer's calm and composed nature is being hailed all across the cricketing fraternity. His confident nod to non-striker Dinesh Karthik just before hitting the winning shot versus Pakistan went viral, with many lauding his calmness and comparing it with MS Dhoni. Recently, Hardik's GT coach and former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on his success and told in an interaction with ICC, "Yes, even I've observed it. And it is necessary. With time and experience, you learn things both as a human being and as a player. Pandya is no different. You might have seen him talking about it. He has said that he has learned different things from different experiences. Now he is married, father of a kid, and matured. With Agastya's arrival, he has become more calm and is more focused on his work," he added. Hardik's form is a huge asset for India going ahead into the 2022 T20 World Cup. For now, he will be eager to guide India to the Asia Cup championship before the action moves to the ICC event, to be held from October-November in Australia.

Former pacer Ashish Nehra opines on Hardik Pandya, explains reason behind Team India star's success

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket after a long time during India's Asia Cup 2022 opener versus Pakistan, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on Sunday (August 28). The 33-year-old's form has been talked about a lot in the last few months. The right-hander's last international century came in late 2019 whereas he had an ordinary IPL 2022 followed by a dismal tour of England, where he ended without a half-century across formats.

Against Pakistan, Kohli came out to bat after KL Rahul got out for a golden duck in India's pursuit of 148. He stitched a handy 49-run second-wicket stand with skipper Rohit Sharma. Eventually, the former Indian captain fell for a 34-ball 35 but showed promise of returning to form with some impressive shots. 
 
India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev opined on Kohli and lauded him for his attitude for sticking out in the middle versus Pakistan during a tricky phase of the run-chase. In addition, he mentioned his attitude as the biggest factor which makes him a bigger player than anyone else in the last ten years.

"Good to see him come back. I saw a couple of shots where he really made an impact. I just want him to be more sure about that. So far, he is coming back, he looked good. He was lucky in the first over when he was dropped. I like his attitude not only today, but from the last ten years. This makes him a bigger player than anyone else," Kapil told ANI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan</a>

On Kohli's form, Kapil asserted, "It is much bigger than anything else. No player will get runs in every match, no player will get a zero in every match. I think with his ability, his talent, it should not take him that long to come back in form. Just waiting for one big knock, he will be back, I have no doubt about it."

<section>Kohli-starrer India will take on Hong Kong in their second game in Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (August 31) in Dubai, with an aim to cement a spot in the Super Four round.</section>

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket after a long time during India's Asia Cup 2022 opener versus Pakistan, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on Sunday (August 28).

Virat Kohli returned to international cricket after a long time during India's Asia Cup 2022 opener versus Pakistan, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on Sunday (August 28). The 33-year-old's form has been talked about a lot in the last few months. The right-hander's last international century came in late 2019 whereas he had an ordinary IPL 2022 followed by a dismal tour of England, where he ended without a half-century across formats. Against Pakistan, Kohli came out to bat after KL Rahul got out for a golden duck in India's pursuit of 148. He stitched a handy 49-run second-wicket stand with skipper Rohit Sharma. Eventually, the former Indian captain fell for a 34-ball 35 but showed promise of returning to form with some impressive shots. India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev opined on Kohli and lauded him for his attitude for sticking out in the middle versus Pakistan during a tricky phase of the run-chase. In addition, he mentioned his attitude as the biggest factor which makes him a bigger player than anyone else in the last ten years. "Good to see him come back. I saw a couple of shots where he really made an impact. I just want him to be more sure about that. So far, he is coming back, he looked good. He was lucky in the first over when he was dropped. I like his attitude not only today, but from the last ten years. This makes him a bigger player than anyone else," Kapil told ANI. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan On Kohli's form, Kapil asserted, "It is much bigger than anything else. No player will get runs in every match, no player will get a zero in every match. I think with his ability, his talent, it should not take him that long to come back in form. Just waiting for one big knock, he will be back, I have no doubt about it." Kohli-starrer India will take on Hong Kong in their second game in Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Wednesday evening (August 31) in Dubai, with an aim to cement a spot in the Super Four round.

Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years'

Here's celebrating a plethora of sporting icons and their achievements as they continue to inspire countrymen from all walks of life.

India@75: Sporting icons who inspired countrymen in post-Independence era

Indian cricket has been on the rise in the post-Independence era. 1983, 2011 ODI World Cup wins, 2007 T20 World Cup triumph, IPL's birth, and women's cricket's rise have led to cricket being the most-preferred sport among countrymen.

India@75: Indian cricket's rise in post-Independence-era

As Virat Kohli gears up for his international comeback and 100th T20I when India face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, here's a look at the former captain's scintillating numbers in the format both as captain and batter.

Virat Kohli's T20I numbers before 100th match during Pakistan clash in Asia Cup

With the Asia Cup 2022 edition being held in the UAE at present, here's everything you need to know about the history of the marquee tournament.

Asia Cup: Everything you need to know about the marquee tournament

Rishabh Pant's omission from India's playing XI for their Asia Cup opening clash versus Pakistan made heads turn. Not many would've expected Pant to be left out -- given his rise at the highest level in recent times -- despite Dinesh Karthik also doing well as a finisher in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma-led India, however, pulled off a suprise by going ahead with Karthik for the Pakistan clash. Opting to bowl first in Dubai, India dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs and later chased it down in the last over courtesy of Virat Kohli's 34-ball 35, Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 (who came to bat at No. 4) and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out (along with his three scalps) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-kapil-dev-explains-why-virat-kohli-is-a-bigger-player-than-anyone-else-in-last-10-years-511754">Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years'</a>

Ahead of India's clash versus Hong Kong, on Wednesday (August 31) at the same venue, former Indian-opener-turned-expert Aakash Chopra shared his pick among Pant and DK.

"Can there be any changes done in this match? I feel there is one change that should but will not happen. If you have to play Jaddu (Jadeja) at No. 4 and you need a left-hander at No. 4 for sure, if you can't do without that, then play Rishabh Pant because, at No. 7, you are doing a grave injustice to Dinesh Karthik also," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan</a>

"What is the gain from batting there? A specialist does not play at No. 7, but I feel that is not going to happen. India are going to go with the same team in this match," he added.

Will India opt for a change? Will DK make way for Pant despite hardly getting a chance to bat versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Rishabh Pant's omission from India's playing XI for their Asia Cup opening clash versus Pakistan made heads turn. Not many would've expected Pant to be left out -- given his rise at the highest level in recent times -- despite Dinesh Karthik also doing well as a finisher in the shortest format.

Rishabh Pant's omission from India's playing XI for their Asia Cup opening clash versus Pakistan made heads turn. Not many would've expected Pant to be left out -- given his rise at the highest level in recent times -- despite Dinesh Karthik also doing well as a finisher in the shortest format. Rohit Sharma-led India, however, pulled off a suprise by going ahead with Karthik for the Pakistan clash. Opting to bowl first in Dubai, India dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs and later chased it down in the last over courtesy of Virat Kohli's 34-ball 35, Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 (who came to bat at No. 4) and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out (along with his three scalps) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years' Ahead of India's clash versus Hong Kong, on Wednesday (August 31) at the same venue, former Indian-opener-turned-expert Aakash Chopra shared his pick among Pant and DK. "Can there be any changes done in this match? I feel there is one change that should but will not happen. If you have to play Jaddu (Jadeja) at No. 4 and you need a left-hander at No. 4 for sure, if you can't do without that, then play Rishabh Pant because, at No. 7, you are doing a grave injustice to Dinesh Karthik also," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan "What is the gain from batting there? A specialist does not play at No. 7, but I feel that is not going to happen. India are going to go with the same team in this match," he added. Will India opt for a change? Will DK make way for Pant despite hardly getting a chance to bat versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Aakash Chopra shares his pick for India's Asia Cup clash vs Hong Kong

Thomas Tuchel urged "soft"&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;to toughen up after a shock 2-1 defeat against Southampton plunged his spluttering team into Premier League turmoil on Tuesday. Tuchel's side blew the lead at St Mary's after Raheem Sterling put them ahead midway through the first half. England forward Sterling bagged his third goal in two games with a close-range strike in the 23rd minute.

But&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;had squandered a host of chances before Sterling's opener and, not for the first time in Tuchel's reign, their profligate finishing came back to haunt them. Romeo Lavia equalized in the 28th minute with his first goal for Southampton, curling home from the edge of the area after&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;failed to clear a corner.

Adam Armstrong put Southampton ahead on the stroke of half-time as he took Romain Perraud's pass and drilled a deflected shot past&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;keeper Edouard Mendy. Chelsea, beaten 3-0 at Leeds in their previous away fixture, were unable to muster a response as they slipped to a second defeat from their last three games.

"Soft, soft, soft defending. There is no need to give shots away. Just toughen up as a team and show a different mentality," Tuchel said.

With just two wins from their first five matches, the Blues are already five points behind leaders Arsenal, who play their game in hand against Aston Villa on Wednesday. Despite a significant close-season spending spree, which is set to continue with several more signings mooted before Thursday's transfer deadline,&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;are struggling to find any sustained momentum at present.

While it is too early to write them out of the title race, Tuchel will be concerned by his team's latest sloppy display -- with key mistakes at both ends of the pitch -- having already criticised them publicly after the Leeds loss.

"It is too easy to put us off balance, to beat us, to confuse us. It is too easy. It happened against Leeds. We need to understand why and find solutions," Tuchel said. "We lose concentration, we lose our plan and lose consistency. I don't understand why we have so many injuries. "In a match where you are in the lead there is no need to give away half-chances. To have no answers in the second half was disappointing."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-agree-deal-to-sign-highly-rated-brazilian-winger-antony-from-ajax-511527">Manchester United agree deal to sign highly-rated Brazilian winger Antony from Ajax</a>

<h2>- Everton frustrated -</h2>

Everton's wait for a first win this season goes on after Luis Sinisterra's first league goal for Leeds earned a 1-1 draw at Elland Road. Frank Lampard's team went ahead when Alex Iwobi's incisive pass was flicked through the legs of Diego Llorente by Anthony Gordon, whose clinical finish capped a superb move in the 17th minute.

But Colombia winger Sinisterra marked his first start for Jesse Marsch's men in memorable fashion with a composed finish from Brenden Aaronson's pass in the 55th minute. Fulham ended Brighton's unbeaten start to the season with a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage that lifted them to sixth place.

Fourth-placed Brighton had won three of their first four games, but Marco Silva's promoted side broke the deadlock in the 48th minute through Aleksandar Mitrovic's fifth goal this season. Neeskens Kebano provided the pass and Serbia striker Mitrovic tapped in at the far post for his 100th league goal for the Cottagers.

Fulham doubled their lead seven minutes later as Brighton defender Lewis Dunk diverted Andreas Pereira's cross into his own net.Alexis Mac Allister converted a 60th minute penalty for Brighton after Pervis Estupinan fouled Bobby De Cordova-Reid.

Yoane Wissa's late leveller rescued Brentford in their 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. Wilfried Zaha showed why Arsenal and&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;have been linked with him as the Ivory Coast forward gave Palace the lead with a brilliant strike from the edge of the area after 59 minutes. But Wissa was left unmarked to equalise with a close-range header in the 88th minute.

Thomas Tuchel urged "soft" Chelsea to toughen up after a shock 2-1 defeat against Southampton plunged his spluttering team into Premier League turmoil on Tuesday.

Thomas Tuchel urged "soft" Chelsea to toughen up after a shock 2-1 defeat against Southampton plunged his spluttering team into Premier League turmoil on Tuesday. Tuchel's side blew the lead at St Mary's after Raheem Sterling put them ahead midway through the first half. England forward Sterling bagged his third goal in two games with a close-range strike in the 23rd minute. But Chelsea had squandered a host of chances before Sterling's opener and, not for the first time in Tuchel's reign, their profligate finishing came back to haunt them. Romeo Lavia equalized in the 28th minute with his first goal for Southampton, curling home from the edge of the area after Chelsea failed to clear a corner. Adam Armstrong put Southampton ahead on the stroke of half-time as he took Romain Perraud's pass and drilled a deflected shot past Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy. Chelsea, beaten 3-0 at Leeds in their previous away fixture, were unable to muster a response as they slipped to a second defeat from their last three games. "Soft, soft, soft defending. There is no need to give shots away. Just toughen up as a team and show a different mentality," Tuchel said. With just two wins from their first five matches, the Blues are already five points behind leaders Arsenal, who play their game in hand against Aston Villa on Wednesday. Despite a significant close-season spending spree, which is set to continue with several more signings mooted before Thursday's transfer deadline, Chelsea are struggling to find any sustained momentum at present. While it is too early to write them out of the title race, Tuchel will be concerned by his team's latest sloppy display -- with key mistakes at both ends of the pitch -- having already criticised them publicly after the Leeds loss. "It is too easy to put us off balance, to beat us, to confuse us. It is too easy. It happened against Leeds. We need to understand why and find solutions," Tuchel said. "We lose concentration, we lose our plan and lose consistency. I don't understand why we have so many injuries. "In a match where you are in the lead there is no need to give away half-chances. To have no answers in the second half was disappointing." ALSO READ | Manchester United agree deal to sign highly-rated Brazilian winger Antony from Ajax - Everton frustrated - Everton's wait for a first win this season goes on after Luis Sinisterra's first league goal for Leeds earned a 1-1 draw at Elland Road. Frank Lampard's team went ahead when Alex Iwobi's incisive pass was flicked through the legs of Diego Llorente by Anthony Gordon, whose clinical finish capped a superb move in the 17th minute. But Colombia winger Sinisterra marked his first start for Jesse Marsch's men in memorable fashion with a composed finish from Brenden Aaronson's pass in the 55th minute. Fulham ended Brighton's unbeaten start to the season with a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage that lifted them to sixth place. Fourth-placed Brighton had won three of their first four games, but Marco Silva's promoted side broke the deadlock in the 48th minute through Aleksandar Mitrovic's fifth goal this season. Neeskens Kebano provided the pass and Serbia striker Mitrovic tapped in at the far post for his 100th league goal for the Cottagers. Fulham doubled their lead seven minutes later as Brighton defender Lewis Dunk diverted Andreas Pereira's cross into his own net.Alexis Mac Allister converted a 60th minute penalty for Brighton after Pervis Estupinan fouled Bobby De Cordova-Reid. Yoane Wissa's late leveller rescued Brentford in their 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. Wilfried Zaha showed why Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with him as the Ivory Coast forward gave Palace the lead with a brilliant strike from the edge of the area after 59 minutes. But Wissa was left unmarked to equalise with a close-range header in the 88th minute.

Thomas Tuchel calls 'soft' Chelsea to toughen up after shock defeat vs Southampton

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