Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four.

As of now, the fight for the last four looks very much like a lost battle for the one-time winners. Ahead of their must-win clash versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made heads turn with his views on Captain Kohli.

Speaking on India's debacle in the T20 WC, Kaneria said on his Youtube channel, "There are a lot of reasons. The first one is Virat Kohli - he has been an unsuccessful captain. He made wrong team selections for the WTC final. Until he was there in Australia, India lost and then Ajinkya Rahane became the captain and led his team to a win. No doubt Virat Kohli is a big player but I have never seen captaincy potential in him. He has a lot of aggression but the decision-making ability as a captain is missing in him."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048">Shoaib Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</a>

"Another reason is Ravi Shastri who has just disappeared. It seems as though he feels 'My time is up, the World Cup is the last in my tenure. I won't be there post this. So whatever happens let it happen' and he too has stepped aside. I won't blame MS Dhoni too much since he has just come into the side. Yet, he was part of the management and cricket involves all the 11 players as well as the management. So everybody is responsible. It's not an individual sport but a team sport so the entire team is responsible."

"I cannot understand this conflict - Virat Kohli opens for RCB and stated that he will open in the World Cup as well. Once the World Cup comes closer he says that there aren't better openers than KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma and they will open. Then where did Ishan Kishan come from during the New Zealand game? No doubt Rohit Sharma is the vice-captain but they ended up feeling that Trent Boult is ahead of him so they should try something different. They would be assuming that Rohit and Rahul will come out to open so if we sent Ishan Kishan to open their plans would flop,"&nbsp;added Kaneria.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-didnt-trust-rohit-sharma-against-trent-boult-sunil-gavaskar-baffled-by-hitmans-demotion-vs-nz-425962">'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ</a>

With back-to-back defeats, Kohli is under serious pressure to keep India alive in the T20 WC. The national side lost their opening fixture to Pakistan by 10 wickets and were hammered by New Zealand, by 8 wickets, as they will now step on the field to take on a competitive Afghanistan line-up, who have two wins from three games and also boost of a healthy net run-rate.

Another loss will end India's campaign in the T20 WC, which will be Kohli's last tournament as the Men in Blue's T20I captain.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four. As of now, the fight for the last four looks very much like a lost battle for the one-time winners. Ahead of their must-win clash versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made heads turn with his views on Captain Kohli. Speaking on India's debacle in the T20 WC, Kaneria said on his Youtube channel, "There are a lot of reasons. The first one is Virat Kohli - he has been an unsuccessful captain. He made wrong team selections for the WTC final. Until he was there in Australia, India lost and then Ajinkya Rahane became the captain and led his team to a win. No doubt Virat Kohli is a big player but I have never seen captaincy potential in him. He has a lot of aggression but the decision-making ability as a captain is missing in him." ALSO READ | Shoaib Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against "Another reason is Ravi Shastri who has just disappeared. It seems as though he feels 'My time is up, the World Cup is the last in my tenure. I won't be there post this. So whatever happens let it happen' and he too has stepped aside. I won't blame MS Dhoni too much since he has just come into the side. Yet, he was part of the management and cricket involves all the 11 players as well as the management. So everybody is responsible. It's not an individual sport but a team sport so the entire team is responsible." "I cannot understand this conflict - Virat Kohli opens for RCB and stated that he will open in the World Cup as well. Once the World Cup comes closer he says that there aren't better openers than KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma and they will open. Then where did Ishan Kishan come from during the New Zealand game? No doubt Rohit Sharma is the vice-captain but they ended up feeling that Trent Boult is ahead of him so they should try something different. They would be assuming that Rohit and Rahul will come out to open so if we sent Ishan Kishan to open their plans would flop," added Kaneria. ALSO READ | 'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ With back-to-back defeats, Kohli is under serious pressure to keep India alive in the T20 WC. The national side lost their opening fixture to Pakistan by 10 wickets and were hammered by New Zealand, by 8 wickets, as they will now step on the field to take on a competitive Afghanistan line-up, who have two wins from three games and also boost of a healthy net run-rate. Another loss will end India's campaign in the T20 WC, which will be Kohli's last tournament as the Men in Blue's T20I captain.

Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC

Opener Jos Buttler smashed a magnificent unbeaten 101 to set up England's 26-run win over Sri Lanka in their Group 1 Super 12 match of the T20 World Cup here on Monday.

Buttler continued his good form as he hit six fours and equal number of sixes during his 67-ball century as England posted 163 for 4 after being invited to bat.

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Captain Eoin Morgan contributed 40 off 36 balls.

For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva was the most successful bowler with figures of 3/21.

Chasing 164 for a win, Sri Lanka were all out for 137 in 19 overs with Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva top-scoring with 34.

For England, Adil Rashid, Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid took two wickets apiece.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929">India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</a>

Brief Scores:

England: 163 for 4 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 101 not out, Eoin Morgan 40; Wanindu Hasaranga 3/21).

Sri Lanka: 137 all out in 19 overs (Wanindu Hasaranga 34; Adil Rashid 2/19, Moeen Ali 2/15, Chris Jordan 2/24).

Opener Jos Buttler smashed a magnificent unbeaten 101 to set up England's 26-run win over Sri Lanka in their Group 1 Super 12 match of the T20 World Cup here on Monday.

Opener Jos Buttler smashed a magnificent unbeaten 101 to set up England's 26-run win over Sri Lanka in their Group 1 Super 12 match of the T20 World Cup here on Monday. Buttler continued his good form as he hit six fours and equal number of sixes during his 67-ball century as England posted 163 for 4 after being invited to bat. ALSO READ: Ashes 2021: England skipper Joe Root welcomes Ben Stokes after all-rounder's finger injury Captain Eoin Morgan contributed 40 off 36 balls. For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva was the most successful bowler with figures of 3/21. Chasing 164 for a win, Sri Lanka were all out for 137 in 19 overs with Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva top-scoring with 34. For England, Adil Rashid, Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid took two wickets apiece. ALSO READ: India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' Brief Scores: England: 163 for 4 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 101 not out, Eoin Morgan 40; Wanindu Hasaranga 3/21). Sri Lanka: 137 all out in 19 overs (Wanindu Hasaranga 34; Adil Rashid 2/19, Moeen Ali 2/15, Chris Jordan 2/24).

T20 World Cup: Jos Buttler's century and Adil Rashid's spell help England beat Sri Lanka by 26 runs

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race.

However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare.

With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli &amp; Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-biggest-match-winner-aakash-chopra-slams-virat-kohli-led-india-for-rohit-sharmas-demotion-425944">'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion</a>

Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar&nbsp;said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult."&nbsp;

"If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-time-bcci-looks-into-scheduling-former-india-captain-comes-in-support-of-underfire-virat-kohli-co-425931">High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli &amp; Co.</a>

"I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off.

India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co.

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race. However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli & Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. ALSO READ | 'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult." "If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added. ALSO READ | High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli & Co. "I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off. India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.

'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ

England captain Joe Root has welcomed Ben Stokes`s return to the Ashes squad, saying that it`s the most exciting thing for him to see star all-rounder`s return to cricket. 
 
Stokes had taken an indefinite break from cricket in July to focus on his mental health and recover from a finger injury. He was not included in England's initial squad for the Ashes 2021-22 series. 
 
However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) later announced that Stokes would be available for the series, which is due to start on December 8.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

"I'd got an inkling. I`d had some good conversations with Ben over the period while he`s not been playing. It was just such a joy to hear him speak, you could almost hear his smile, if that makes sense, on the phone. You could tell he was so much happier within himself," Root told the Guardian. 
 
"Just the fact he feels he's in a place where he`s ready to play cricket again is the most exciting thing," he added. 
 
The England captain also praised Stokes`s honesty, adding that they made it very clear to him that he has to be in the right space to go and play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929">India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</a>

"We made it very clear to Ben, it`s got to be right for you. You have to be in the right space to go and play, physically and mentally. One thing about Ben, he`s very honest, he won`t shirk any difficult conversations and he`s been true to that through the whole thing," said Root. 
 
"We have been through a lot on and off the field. To see him now back in a place where he is able to enjoy his cricket again and feel more`himself, that`s the best part of the whole thing. It`s just really exciting," he added.

England captain Joe Root has welcomed Ben Stokes`s return to the Ashes squad, saying that it`s the most exciting thing for him to see star all-rounder`s return to cricket.

England captain Joe Root has welcomed Ben Stokes`s return to the Ashes squad, saying that it`s the most exciting thing for him to see star all-rounder`s return to cricket. Stokes had taken an indefinite break from cricket in July to focus on his mental health and recover from a finger injury. He was not included in England's initial squad for the Ashes 2021-22 series. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) later announced that Stokes would be available for the series, which is due to start on December 8. ALSO READ: You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss "I'd got an inkling. I`d had some good conversations with Ben over the period while he`s not been playing. It was just such a joy to hear him speak, you could almost hear his smile, if that makes sense, on the phone. You could tell he was so much happier within himself," Root told the Guardian. "Just the fact he feels he's in a place where he`s ready to play cricket again is the most exciting thing," he added. The England captain also praised Stokes`s honesty, adding that they made it very clear to him that he has to be in the right space to go and play. ALSO READ: India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' "We made it very clear to Ben, it`s got to be right for you. You have to be in the right space to go and play, physically and mentally. One thing about Ben, he`s very honest, he won`t shirk any difficult conversations and he`s been true to that through the whole thing," said Root. "We have been through a lot on and off the field. To see him now back in a place where he is able to enjoy his cricket again and feel more`himself, that`s the best part of the whole thing. It`s just really exciting," he added.

Ashes 2021: England skipper Joe Root welcomes Ben Stokes after all-rounder's finger injury

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday that he enjoyed the criticism that comes with his job and that he was unperturbed by the harsh comments that followed some of his team`s recent performances.

Solskjaer has been under intense scrutiny after United`s stuttering start to the season but saw <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-ease-pressure-on-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-with-3-0-win-at-spurs-425519">some of that pressure ease with a 3-0 win&nbsp;over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend</a>.

"Criticism can make you doubt yourself or you can stand up for yourself. I have always enjoyed criticism. Keep that coming," he said ahead of United`s trip to Atalanta in the Champions League on Tuesday.

"Journalists, pundits, experts, we all have different jobs. It is their job to give their opinion. I am not here to fight with them."

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The Norwegian insisted United had not turned a corner despite the dominant win at Spurs, with Atalanta likely to pose a difficult challenge.

"Special style. Attacking, aggressive, the coach (Gian Piero Gasperini) shines that energy. It is also exciting to watch and we have followed them for a while. What they have done in the last five years has been remarkable," said Solskjaer.

United were forced to dig deep against the Italians in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford last month, coming from two goals down to seal a dramatic late 3-2 win.

"Atalanta are a team with a unique style of play and still believe in themselves. It is always little things they might try to do different to win any game..." he added.

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United's strategy of switching to a back three in central defence worked perfectly against Tottenham, but the manager said he was unlikely to use the same system on Tuesday.

"We have players to play many different systems -- back three, back five, wide men, wingers. We looked at Tottenham, played that system and it worked. Can't say what we will do tomorrow night," he said.

United top Group F with six points from three games, while Atalanta are third, level on four points with second-placed Villarreal.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday that he enjoyed the criticism that comes with his job and that he was unperturbed by the harsh comments that followed some of his team`s recent performances.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday that he enjoyed the criticism that comes with his job and that he was unperturbed by the harsh comments that followed some of his team`s recent performances. Solskjaer has been under intense scrutiny after United`s stuttering start to the season but saw some of that pressure ease with a 3-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. "Criticism can make you doubt yourself or you can stand up for yourself. I have always enjoyed criticism. Keep that coming," he said ahead of United`s trip to Atalanta in the Champions League on Tuesday. "Journalists, pundits, experts, we all have different jobs. It is their job to give their opinion. I am not here to fight with them." ALSO READ: Tottenham Hotspur sack manager Nuno Espirito Santo after defeat vs Manchester United The Norwegian insisted United had not turned a corner despite the dominant win at Spurs, with Atalanta likely to pose a difficult challenge. "Special style. Attacking, aggressive, the coach (Gian Piero Gasperini) shines that energy. It is also exciting to watch and we have followed them for a while. What they have done in the last five years has been remarkable," said Solskjaer. United were forced to dig deep against the Italians in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford last month, coming from two goals down to seal a dramatic late 3-2 win. "Atalanta are a team with a unique style of play and still believe in themselves. It is always little things they might try to do different to win any game..." he added. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi keen on Barcelona return after hanging up his boots United's strategy of switching to a back three in central defence worked perfectly against Tottenham, but the manager said he was unlikely to use the same system on Tuesday. "We have players to play many different systems -- back three, back five, wide men, wingers. We looked at Tottenham, played that system and it worked. Can't say what we will do tomorrow night," he said. United top Group F with six points from three games, while Atalanta are third, level on four points with second-placed Villarreal.

Not here to fight with my critics, says underfire Ole Gunnar ahead of Man Utd's CL tie vs Atalanta

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare.

While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929">India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</a>

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified."

"This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare. While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli & Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps. ALSO READ | India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified." "This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue. So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion

Former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar says he has not seen the Indian team as "off coloured" as it was against New Zealand in a long time and called for an investigation into R Ashwin's repeated exclusion from the playing eleven.

"The team looked off coloured and players looked jaded. I don't know if it is the bio bubble fatigue or something else, I have not seen such body language in the players in a long time, Vengsarkar told PTI on a day after India's eight-wicket loss to New Zealand.

"It was quite a lacklustre performance, be it in batting or bowling. This format demands you to be energetic from ball one," added the former India captain.

In the first two games, India picked Varuan Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja as the two spinners, leaving out Ashwin who has made the white ball team after four years.

Vengsarkar can't fathom the logic behind picking Ashwin in the squad if he is not going to play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

"Why is Ashwin being so dropped for so long? It is a matter of investigation. Across formats he is your best spinner with more than 600 international wickets. He is your senior most spinner and you don't pick him.

"I fail to understand. He didn't play a single game in the England Test series also. Why do you pick him then? It is a mystery to me."

Hardik Pandya bowled for the first time in the tournament on Sunday but has not bowled regularly in a long time and is being picked more as a specialist batter.

"We are too top-three dependant. When they don't fire, the team is in trouble more often than not. I can't talk about Hardik's fitness sitting here. All I can say is that as an all-rounder if you are not able to contribute with bat and ball, you are going to be under pressure."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-a-miracle-to-see-them-qualify-shahid-afridi-predicts-indias-fortunes-after-nz-loss-in-t20-wc-425850">Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC</a>

About Rohit Sharma's demotion to number three to accommodate Ishan Kishan, Vengsarkar said it seemed like a one-off move since Suryukumar Yadav was injured.

Most of the batters failed to clear the boundary in Dubai and that is another worry for Vengsarkar.

"We need to have bigger boundaries in the IPL, especially in India. Most of our batters were caught in the deep yesterday," the 65-year-old added.&nbsp;

Former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar says he has not seen the Indian team as "off coloured" as it was against New Zealand in a long time and called for an investigation into R Ashwin's repeated exclusion from the playing eleven.

Former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar says he has not seen the Indian team as "off coloured" as it was against New Zealand in a long time and called for an investigation into R Ashwin's repeated exclusion from the playing eleven. "The team looked off coloured and players looked jaded. I don't know if it is the bio bubble fatigue or something else, I have not seen such body language in the players in a long time, Vengsarkar told PTI on a day after India's eight-wicket loss to New Zealand. "It was quite a lacklustre performance, be it in batting or bowling. This format demands you to be energetic from ball one," added the former India captain. In the first two games, India picked Varuan Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja as the two spinners, leaving out Ashwin who has made the white ball team after four years. Vengsarkar can't fathom the logic behind picking Ashwin in the squad if he is not going to play. ALSO READ: You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss "Why is Ashwin being so dropped for so long? It is a matter of investigation. Across formats he is your best spinner with more than 600 international wickets. He is your senior most spinner and you don't pick him. "I fail to understand. He didn't play a single game in the England Test series also. Why do you pick him then? It is a mystery to me." Hardik Pandya bowled for the first time in the tournament on Sunday but has not bowled regularly in a long time and is being picked more as a specialist batter. "We are too top-three dependant. When they don't fire, the team is in trouble more often than not. I can't talk about Hardik's fitness sitting here. All I can say is that as an all-rounder if you are not able to contribute with bat and ball, you are going to be under pressure." ALSO READ | Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC About Rohit Sharma's demotion to number three to accommodate Ishan Kishan, Vengsarkar said it seemed like a one-off move since Suryukumar Yadav was injured. Most of the batters failed to clear the boundary in Dubai and that is another worry for Vengsarkar. "We need to have bigger boundaries in the IPL, especially in India. Most of our batters were caught in the deep yesterday," the 65-year-old added.

India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'

Virat Kohli-led India lost to New Zealand by 8&nbsp;wickets in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their first-ever ICC game to arch-rivals Pakistan, with a 10-wicket defeat, India were expected to come out all guns blazing versus the Black Caps, however, the Kiwis dominated India in all departments to push them on the brink of an early elimination.

Being asked to bat first, India batters struggled and posted a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand finished the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare to keep themselves in the semi-finals race. With another defeat, questions are being raised over Team India's poor body language, witnessed versus the Kiwis, poor tactics and ordinary batting performances.

The Men in Blue is a star-studded line-up, comprising Captain Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc., however, they have faltered in two games on the trot without posing any threat. While India are being slammed left, right and centre, former India captain and chief selector Kris Srikkant has defended the one-time winners.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

“I totally back the players, mental fatigue is a real thing and it's high time @BCCI looks into their scheduling and make sure they take care of all the players, I back the Indian players and its high time we take care of them!” Srikkanth wrote on Monday on his official Twitter profile.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804">'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</a>

At the post-match press conference, Jasprit Bumrah also opined on the bubble-fatigure and told reporters, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role."

"The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in."

For the unversed, India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021. They went to the United Kingdom -- for the WTC final and five Tests versus England -- before turning up for their respective IPL franchises in this year's edition's final leg in the UAE. Soon after the IPL 14 final leg, India shifted their focus towards the T20 WC; resulting in players' lagging behind in energy and depicting poor body language.

Virat Kohli-led India lost to New Zealand by 8 wickets in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Virat Kohli-led India lost to New Zealand by 8 wickets in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their first-ever ICC game to arch-rivals Pakistan, with a 10-wicket defeat, India were expected to come out all guns blazing versus the Black Caps, however, the Kiwis dominated India in all departments to push them on the brink of an early elimination. Being asked to bat first, India batters struggled and posted a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand finished the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare to keep themselves in the semi-finals race. With another defeat, questions are being raised over Team India's poor body language, witnessed versus the Kiwis, poor tactics and ordinary batting performances. The Men in Blue is a star-studded line-up, comprising Captain Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc., however, they have faltered in two games on the trot without posing any threat. While India are being slammed left, right and centre, former India captain and chief selector Kris Srikkant has defended the one-time winners. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss “I totally back the players, mental fatigue is a real thing and it's high time @BCCI looks into their scheduling and make sure they take care of all the players, I back the Indian players and its high time we take care of them!” Srikkanth wrote on Monday on his official Twitter profile. I totally back the players, mental fatigue is a real thing and it's high time @BCCI looks into their scheduling and make sure they take care of all the players, I back the Indian players and itd high time we take care of them! — Kris Srikkanth (@KrisSrikkanth) November 1, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles At the post-match press conference, Jasprit Bumrah also opined on the bubble-fatigure and told reporters, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role." "The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in." For the unversed, India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021. They went to the United Kingdom -- for the WTC final and five Tests versus England -- before turning up for their respective IPL franchises in this year's edition's final leg in the UAE. Soon after the IPL 14 final leg, India shifted their focus towards the T20 WC; resulting in players' lagging behind in energy and depicting poor body language.

High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli & Co.

India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). After losing to Pakistan in their opening fixture in the main draw of the showpiece event, many expected Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to script a remarkable comeback, however, they lost to the Black Caps by 8 wickets as they remain way behind NZ in head-to-head record in ICC events.

Being asked to bat first, Kohli-led Indian team produced a forgettable batting performance as they were reduced to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult and Tim Southee's match-winning spells. In reply, Kane Williamson &amp; Co. won the contest by 8 wickets with 33 balls to spare to remain alive in the semi-finals race. India, meanwhile, will have to win all their remaining games by huge margins and hope for few other results to fall in their favour to enter the top four.

After losing the clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai,&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli was expected to come and answer the press in the post-match conference, however, he didn't turn up as speedster Jasprit Bumrah came in the captain's place. This has not impressed India's former skipper Mohammad Azharuddin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-a-miracle-to-see-them-qualify-shahid-afridi-predicts-indias-fortunes-after-nz-loss-in-t20-wc-425850">Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC</a>

"There is no shame in losing. But you need to come and speak up. That is the right thing to do. People will listen to you and at least get to know the reason behind the loss. There is a difference between Bumrah speaking or a coach/captain speaking. It is important to face the public. You will have to face the nation and come and speak. If you don’t come, what will people think? Needless rumours are going to be spread," Azharuddin said on ABP News.

"If you are the captain, you should take responsibility. When you become the representative of the team, this will happen. If you come attend conference after winning in good times but not after losing in bad times, that isn’t the right approach. I don’t know the reason why he didn’t come, but he should have," Azharuddin pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-reacting-to-everything-doesnt-mean-you-are-more-passionate-425844">Gautam Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate</a>

India have a herculean task to remain alive in the T20 WC, being held in the UAE. With back-to-back defeats, the 2007 winners will now gear up for their upcoming game, versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3). Another defeat will end their campaign in the mega event.

India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). After losing to Pakistan in their opening fixture in the main draw of the showpiece event, many expected Virat Kohli & Co.

India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). After losing to Pakistan in their opening fixture in the main draw of the showpiece event, many expected Virat Kohli & Co. to script a remarkable comeback, however, they lost to the Black Caps by 8 wickets as they remain way behind NZ in head-to-head record in ICC events. Being asked to bat first, Kohli-led Indian team produced a forgettable batting performance as they were reduced to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult and Tim Southee's match-winning spells. In reply, Kane Williamson & Co. won the contest by 8 wickets with 33 balls to spare to remain alive in the semi-finals race. India, meanwhile, will have to win all their remaining games by huge margins and hope for few other results to fall in their favour to enter the top four. After losing the clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, Indian captain Virat Kohli was expected to come and answer the press in the post-match conference, however, he didn't turn up as speedster Jasprit Bumrah came in the captain's place. This has not impressed India's former skipper Mohammad Azharuddin. ALSO READ | Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC "There is no shame in losing. But you need to come and speak up. That is the right thing to do. People will listen to you and at least get to know the reason behind the loss. There is a difference between Bumrah speaking or a coach/captain speaking. It is important to face the public. You will have to face the nation and come and speak. If you don’t come, what will people think? Needless rumours are going to be spread," Azharuddin said on ABP News. "If you are the captain, you should take responsibility. When you become the representative of the team, this will happen. If you come attend conference after winning in good times but not after losing in bad times, that isn’t the right approach. I don’t know the reason why he didn’t come, but he should have," Azharuddin pointed out. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate India have a herculean task to remain alive in the T20 WC, being held in the UAE. With back-to-back defeats, the 2007 winners will now gear up for their upcoming game, versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3). Another defeat will end their campaign in the mega event.

You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, has addressed the critical&nbsp;point where Team India went wrong against New Zealand on Sunday in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. New Zealand won by eight wickets against India in their second match in Super-12 stage, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Tendulkar in his Facebook video said, "From the ball one, the bowling changes of Williamson were top notch. The planning was good and in the first six overs we were 35/2 and from those 35 runs the 20 came in five overs."

"After six overs till 10th over we only scored 13 runs, so according to me that was a critical point where we missed out on capitalising. Those easy singles were not available and that forced our batters to play the big shot," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-believe-india-is-best-team-pakistan-pacer-shares-heartwarming-post-for-kohli-co-after-nz-defeat-425824">'Still believe India is best team': Pakistan pacer shares heartwarming post for Kohli &amp; Co. after NZ defeat</a>

Both India and New Zealand had lost their first Super 12s game against Pakistan, and they came into this one knowing that a loss would leave their prospects of reaching the semi-finals hanging by a thread.

New Zealand, on the other hand, got off to a flying start, picking up early wickets to put India on the back foot. At 48 for four, India were&nbsp;in big trouble, and while Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya consolidated, it came at the price of India's scoring rate, as the team faced 71 balls without scoring a boundary.

"When Pant came into bat, immediately spinners end was changed by Williamson. Again a smart move. All in all, I felt India was playing a catching of game because how New Zealand dominated the game it was a tough time for India batsmen which forced them to play the big shot," said the former Indian batsman.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-kevin-pietersen-harbhajan-singh-ask-fans-to-support-team-india-after-loss-against-new-zealand-425819">T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand</a>

Tendulkar also lauded Williamson, calling him a "rock" who has shielded the Kiwis. "Then Daryl Mitchell and Williamson stitched an important stand. Williamson is like a rock for the New Zealand team if he is on a wicket he controls the game well. Mitchell played some decent shots and rotated the strikes," stated&nbsp;Tendulkar.

Meanwhile, India is now reliant on other outcomes to get to the semi-finals. The Men in Blue's next&nbsp;match is against Afghanistan, scheduled for Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, has addressed the critical point where Team India went wrong against New Zealand on Sunday in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition.

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, has addressed the critical point where Team India went wrong against New Zealand on Sunday in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. New Zealand won by eight wickets against India in their second match in Super-12 stage, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Tendulkar in his Facebook video said, "From the ball one, the bowling changes of Williamson were top notch. The planning was good and in the first six overs we were 35/2 and from those 35 runs the 20 came in five overs." "After six overs till 10th over we only scored 13 runs, so according to me that was a critical point where we missed out on capitalising. Those easy singles were not available and that forced our batters to play the big shot," he added. ALSO READ: 'Still believe India is best team': Pakistan pacer shares heartwarming post for Kohli & Co. after NZ defeat Both India and New Zealand had lost their first Super 12s game against Pakistan, and they came into this one knowing that a loss would leave their prospects of reaching the semi-finals hanging by a thread. New Zealand, on the other hand, got off to a flying start, picking up early wickets to put India on the back foot. At 48 for four, India were in big trouble, and while Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya consolidated, it came at the price of India's scoring rate, as the team faced 71 balls without scoring a boundary. "When Pant came into bat, immediately spinners end was changed by Williamson. Again a smart move. All in all, I felt India was playing a catching of game because how New Zealand dominated the game it was a tough time for India batsmen which forced them to play the big shot," said the former Indian batsman. ALSO READ: T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand Tendulkar also lauded Williamson, calling him a "rock" who has shielded the Kiwis. "Then Daryl Mitchell and Williamson stitched an important stand. Williamson is like a rock for the New Zealand team if he is on a wicket he controls the game well. Mitchell played some decent shots and rotated the strikes," stated Tendulkar. Meanwhile, India is now reliant on other outcomes to get to the semi-finals. The Men in Blue's next match is against Afghanistan, scheduled for Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.

T20 World Cup: Kane Williamson is NZ's rock, says Sachin Tendulkar after Kiwis' win vs India

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in match 28 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). Both sides were in a tough spot after losing their respective Super 12 opening fixtures and had to win to progress ahead. In the marquee face-off, Virat Kohli-led Team India were thrashed by the Kiwis as the Black Caps maintained their ICC dominance versus the Men in Blue.

While the one-time winners India aren't out of contention for the semi-finals spot, they surely have their back against the wall at the moment with two successive losses. After Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17 restricted India to 110/7, the Kiwis chased down the score with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. Courtesy this win, New Zealand have once again shown that they have the knack of beating big teams in ICC events despite not being termed as one of the strongest contenders in showpiece events.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-a-miracle-to-see-them-qualify-shahid-afridi-predicts-indias-fortunes-after-nz-loss-in-t20-wc-425850">Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC</a>

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lavished praise on the underrated Kiwis. After the India clash, Vaughan wrote on Twitter, "No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but #NZ are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment …"

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No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZ</a> are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment … <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fact?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fact</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1454856694304059393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, New Zealand are the No. 1 ranked side in Tests and ODIs and occupy the fourth spot in ICC T20I rankings. They have appeared in the ODI World Cup final on successive editions, in 2015 and 2019, won the inaugural edition of the ICC Test Championship whereas were also the semi-finalists in the 2016 T20 WC.&nbsp;

How far will the Black Caps go this time around? Only time will tell...

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in match 28 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). Both sides were in a tough spot after losing their respective Super 12 opening fixtures and had to win to progress ahead.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in match 28 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). Both sides were in a tough spot after losing their respective Super 12 opening fixtures and had to win to progress ahead. In the marquee face-off, Virat Kohli-led Team India were thrashed by the Kiwis as the Black Caps maintained their ICC dominance versus the Men in Blue. While the one-time winners India aren't out of contention for the semi-finals spot, they surely have their back against the wall at the moment with two successive losses. After Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17 restricted India to 110/7, the Kiwis chased down the score with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. Courtesy this win, New Zealand have once again shown that they have the knack of beating big teams in ICC events despite not being termed as one of the strongest contenders in showpiece events. ALSO READ | Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lavished praise on the underrated Kiwis. After the India clash, Vaughan wrote on Twitter, "No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but #NZ are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment …" No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but #NZ are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment … #Fact #T20WorldCup — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles For the unversed, New Zealand are the No. 1 ranked side in Tests and ODIs and occupy the fourth spot in ICC T20I rankings. They have appeared in the ODI World Cup final on successive editions, in 2015 and 2019, won the inaugural edition of the ICC Test Championship whereas were also the semi-finalists in the 2016 T20 WC. How far will the Black Caps go this time around? Only time will tell...

'Best all-format team' - Michael Vaughan lavishes huge praise on New Zealand after India win in T20 WC

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli &amp; Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai.

Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have&nbsp;only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during&nbsp;the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa.

After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804">'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</a>

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India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1454858664075046914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2021-prediction-who-will-win-todays-match-between-england-and-sri-lanka-425830">ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka?</a>

At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won."

India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event. India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli & Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai. Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup." ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka? At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won." India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.

Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC

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