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<p>Australia's Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins created history during his side's Super 8 clash versus Bangladesh by becoming only the second Aussie, after Brett Lee, to claim a T20 World Cup hat-trick. Cummins achieved the feat during the first ball of the&nbsp;last over after dismissing&nbsp;Towhid Hridoy. In his previous over, he had removed the likes of&nbsp;Mahmudullah and Mehedi Hasan on the last two deliveries. Riding on his 3&nbsp;for 29, Australia restricted Bangladesh for 140/8 at the&nbsp;Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua on Thursday (June 20, local time). Overall, he became&nbsp;the fourth Australian with a hat-trick in the format.</p>

<p><strong>Hattricks in Men’s T20 WC</strong><br />
Brett Lee (Australia) vs Bangladesh, Cape Town, 2007<br />
Curtis Campher (Ireland) vs Netherlands, Abu Dhabi, 2021<br />
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) vs South Africa, Sharjah, 2021<br />
Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) vs England, Sharjah, 2021<br />
Karthik Meiyappan (UAE) vs Sri Lanka, Geelong, 2022<br />
Joshua Little (Ireland) vs New Zealand, Adelaide, 2022<br />
<strong>Pat Cummins (Australia) vs Bangladesh, Antigua, 2024</strong></p>

<p><strong>Australia bowlers with hattricks in T20Is</strong><br />
Brett Lee vs Bangladesh, Cape Town, 2007<br />
Ashton Agar vs South Africa, Johannesburg, 2020<br />
Nathan Ellis vs Bangladesh, Mirpur, 2021<br />
<strong>Pat Cummins vs Bangladesh, Antigua, 2024</strong></p>

<p>Overall, Cummins became the 56th bowler with a hat-trick in T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-jasprit-bumrah-jolts-afghanistan-with-early-wickets-as-india-tighten-grip-over-contest-733631">T20 World Cup 2024: Jasprit Bumrah jolts Afghanistan with early wickets as India tighten grip over contest</a></strong></p>

<p>During the Bangladesh innings, Cummins' bowling partner Mitchell Starc also created history by becoming the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history (ODI&nbsp;and T20I WCs) by claiming his&nbsp;95th&nbsp;scalp after trapping Tanzid Hasan in the opening over. Ace spinner Adam Zampa also continued his good run, ending with 2 for 24.&nbsp;Thus, the Mitchell Marsh-led Australian team had a good outing in the first innings, restricting the Asian side to a modest&nbsp;140/8.</p>

<p>From the Bangla Tigers, they rode on captain Najmul Shanto's 41 and&nbsp;Hridoy's 40 to post a below-par score.</p>


Australia's Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins created history during his side's Super 8 clash versus Bangladesh by becoming only the second Aussie, after Brett Lee, to claim a T20 World Cup hat-trick.

Australia's Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins created history during his side's Super 8 clash versus Bangladesh by becoming only the second Aussie, after Brett Lee, to claim a T20 World Cup hat-trick. Cummins achieved the feat during the first ball of the last over after dismissing Towhid Hridoy. In his previous over, he had removed the likes of Mahmudullah and Mehedi Hasan on the last two deliveries. Riding on his 3 for 29, Australia restricted Bangladesh for 140/8 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua on Thursday (June 20, local time). Overall, he became the fourth Australian with a hat-trick in the format. Hattricks in Men’s T20 WC Brett Lee (Australia) vs Bangladesh, Cape Town, 2007 Curtis Campher (Ireland) vs Netherlands, Abu Dhabi, 2021 Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) vs South Africa, Sharjah, 2021 Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) vs England, Sharjah, 2021 Karthik Meiyappan (UAE) vs Sri Lanka, Geelong, 2022 Joshua Little (Ireland) vs New Zealand, Adelaide, 2022 Pat Cummins (Australia) vs Bangladesh, Antigua, 2024 Australia bowlers with hattricks in T20Is Brett Lee vs Bangladesh, Cape Town, 2007 Ashton Agar vs South Africa, Johannesburg, 2020 Nathan Ellis vs Bangladesh, Mirpur, 2021 Pat Cummins vs Bangladesh, Antigua, 2024 Overall, Cummins became the 56th bowler with a hat-trick in T20Is. Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: Jasprit Bumrah jolts Afghanistan with early wickets as India tighten grip over contest During the Bangladesh innings, Cummins' bowling partner Mitchell Starc also created history by becoming the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history (ODI and T20I WCs) by claiming his 95th scalp after trapping Tanzid Hasan in the opening over. Ace spinner Adam Zampa also continued his good run, ending with 2 for 24. Thus, the Mitchell Marsh-led Australian team had a good outing in the first innings, restricting the Asian side to a modest 140/8. From the Bangla Tigers, they rode on captain Najmul Shanto's 41 and Hridoy's 40 to post a below-par score.

Australia vs Bangladesh: Pat Cummins becomes second Australian to claim a T20 World Cup hat-trick

<p>West Indies legend Brian Lara came in support of Virat Kohli, who is struggling for runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Thursday (June 20), India faced Afghanistan in their first Super 8 encounter, at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, where Kohli just managed a run-a-ball 24 during the Rohit Sharma-led side's convincing 47-run win in defence of 181/8. While there were a lot of positives for Team India, Kohli's form remains a worry. However, Lara feels the Indian team management and fans need to be patient with him as there are still a lot of games left in the 20-nation event.</p>

<p>So far, Kohli has just managed 29 runs in four outings in the tournament. He looked set versus Afghanistan before being removed by Rashid Khan, in an attempt to go for a big shot. Lara, however, feels 'he spent some time out there' and it will hold him in good stead going forward.</p>

<p>Lara said on Star Sports, "24 of 24, you can say that’s not great but the most important thing is that he spent some time out there. India has got one step closer to winning this trophy. I believe that Virat Kohli is just gonna go from strength to strength as he comes down to the Caribbean. He’s going to Antigua next, you’re gonna see him go out there and plough and plough, he’s gonna get runs. When he gets into full swing, it’s a different story. We just have to be very patient with him, we’re gonna see a lot of him there’s still a lot of games left in this World Cup."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/17-players-60-rooms-former-pakistan-cricketer-slams-babar-co-for-holidaying-in-usa-post-t20-wc-debacle-733768">'17 players, 60 rooms': Former Pakistan cricketer SLAMS Babar &amp; Co for 'holidaying in USA' post T20 WC debacle</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid Kohli's poor run of form, South African legend AB de Villiers made a special request to the Indian team management before their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan. ABD reckoned, on his YouTube channel, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)."</p>

<p>Talking about India's Super 8 win versus the Afghans, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue posted 181 for 8 after deciding to bat first. Suryakumar Yadav's 53, Hardik Pandya's 24-ball 32 and Rishabh Pant's 11-ball 20 propelled India to a fighting total. In reply, Jasprit Bumrah's 3 for 7 and Arshdeep Singh's 3 for 36 dismissed Rashid Khan &amp; Co. for 134.</p>

<p>With this win, India remain one of the three unbeaten sides in the ongoing T20 WC. They will now lock horns with Bangladesh on Saturday (June 22) in Antigua. The one-time winners are in Group 1 along with Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.</p>


West Indies legend Brian Lara came in support of Virat Kohli, who is struggling for runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Thursday (June 20), India faced Afghanistan in their first Super 8 encounter, at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, where Kohli just managed a run-a-ball 24 during the Rohit Sharma-led side's convincing 47-run win in defence of 181/8.

West Indies legend Brian Lara came in support of Virat Kohli, who is struggling for runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Thursday (June 20), India faced Afghanistan in their first Super 8 encounter, at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, where Kohli just managed a run-a-ball 24 during the Rohit Sharma-led side's convincing 47-run win in defence of 181/8. While there were a lot of positives for Team India, Kohli's form remains a worry. However, Lara feels the Indian team management and fans need to be patient with him as there are still a lot of games left in the 20-nation event. So far, Kohli has just managed 29 runs in four outings in the tournament. He looked set versus Afghanistan before being removed by Rashid Khan, in an attempt to go for a big shot. Lara, however, feels 'he spent some time out there' and it will hold him in good stead going forward. Lara said on Star Sports, "24 of 24, you can say that’s not great but the most important thing is that he spent some time out there. India has got one step closer to winning this trophy. I believe that Virat Kohli is just gonna go from strength to strength as he comes down to the Caribbean. He’s going to Antigua next, you’re gonna see him go out there and plough and plough, he’s gonna get runs. When he gets into full swing, it’s a different story. We just have to be very patient with him, we’re gonna see a lot of him there’s still a lot of games left in this World Cup." Also read: '17 players, 60 rooms': Former Pakistan cricketer SLAMS Babar & Co for 'holidaying in USA' post T20 WC debacle Amid Kohli's poor run of form, South African legend AB de Villiers made a special request to the Indian team management before their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan. ABD reckoned, on his YouTube channel, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)." Talking about India's Super 8 win versus the Afghans, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue posted 181 for 8 after deciding to bat first. Suryakumar Yadav's 53, Hardik Pandya's 24-ball 32 and Rishabh Pant's 11-ball 20 propelled India to a fighting total. In reply, Jasprit Bumrah's 3 for 7 and Arshdeep Singh's 3 for 36 dismissed Rashid Khan & Co. for 134. With this win, India remain one of the three unbeaten sides in the ongoing T20 WC. They will now lock horns with Bangladesh on Saturday (June 22) in Antigua. The one-time winners are in Group 1 along with Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

'That’s not great but...': West Indies legend Brian Lara on Virat Kohli's rut in T20 World Cup 2024

<p>Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter&nbsp;Atiq-uz-Zaman recently went on an epic rant, slamming Babar Azam-led Men in Green following their 2024 T20 World Cup debacle. Babar-led Pakistan were in Group A alongside arch-rivals India, USA, Ireland and Canada. Many predicted them to reach the Super 8s&nbsp;at least with ease. However, the 2022 runners-up ended up winning only two games, beating Ireland (in a nervy chase) and Canada. They lost to India and shockingly went down to the USA.</p>

<p>Following their terrible show at the ongoing 20-nation event, in the West Indies and the USA, Atiq ripped apart Babar &amp; Co in a video which has surfaced on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. In the clip, he claimed&nbsp;that the players' activities during the mega event made him feel like they were on a holiday.</p>

<p>He said, "You are creating such a drama. During our time, there used to be a coach and with him a manager -- the team was run like that.&nbsp;<em>Ab aapke 17 log hain officals mein aur 17 players hain, suna hai ke aapne 60 kamre book karvaye hue they</em>&nbsp;(you have 17 officials and equal number of&nbsp;players; it's being said you booked 60 rooms). That's a joke! Have you gone there to play cricket or to holiday?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Atiq-uz-Zaman "17 officials, 60 hotel rooms, families - were they there to play cricket or was it a holiday" <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/JCUgjoGrMw">pic.twitter.com/JCUgjoGrMw</a></p>
— Saj Sadiq (@SajSadiqCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/SajSadiqCricket/status/1803472989976965610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-australia-continue-winning-run-beat-bangladesh-by-28-runs-via-dls-method-in-super-8s-733739">T20 World Cup 2024: Australia continue winning run, beat Bangladesh by 28 runs via DLS method in Super 8s</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'You guys have made it a habit to travel with wife on tours'</strong></h2>

<p>Atif --&nbsp;who represented Pakistan&nbsp;in one Test and three ODIs -- further stated, "Why do you allow families in big events?...<em>Begum, jaan nahi chhodti; aapne aadat bana di hai, begum ko saath le ke ghoomne ki aadat hai&nbsp;</em>(you guys have made it a habit to travel with wife on tours). They go out in the evening and focus shifts from cricket. They focus on family, kids, wife...<em>Takeaways pe khana kha rahe hote hain...aur wahan pe unki movieyan chal rahi hoti hain</em>&nbsp;(they are eating at takeaway joints and also being captured on videos by fans)."</p>

<p>Atiq added, "Such a culture has been created in Pakistan cricket that nobody knows what is discipline...You have gone to play such a big event, where is your focus?...Can't you leave everything else and focus on cricket alone for two weeks? You are being paid crores annually."</p>

<p>A lot has been said and written about Pakistan cricket following their shambolic performance in the ongoing ICC event. Reportedly, some big calls are set to be made and a lot of revamp is in store for the national team as well as for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).</p>


Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Atiq-uz-Zaman recently went on an epic rant, slamming Babar Azam-led Men in Green following their 2024 T20 World Cup debacle.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Atiq-uz-Zaman recently went on an epic rant, slamming Babar Azam-led Men in Green following their 2024 T20 World Cup debacle. Babar-led Pakistan were in Group A alongside arch-rivals India, USA, Ireland and Canada. Many predicted them to reach the Super 8s at least with ease. However, the 2022 runners-up ended up winning only two games, beating Ireland (in a nervy chase) and Canada. They lost to India and shockingly went down to the USA. Following their terrible show at the ongoing 20-nation event, in the West Indies and the USA, Atiq ripped apart Babar & Co in a video which has surfaced on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. In the clip, he claimed that the players' activities during the mega event made him feel like they were on a holiday. He said, "You are creating such a drama. During our time, there used to be a coach and with him a manager -- the team was run like that. Ab aapke 17 log hain officals mein aur 17 players hain, suna hai ke aapne 60 kamre book karvaye hue they (you have 17 officials and equal number of players; it's being said you booked 60 rooms). That's a joke! Have you gone there to play cricket or to holiday?" Atiq-uz-Zaman "17 officials, 60 hotel rooms, families - were they there to play cricket or was it a holiday" #T20WorldCup #Cricket pic.twitter.com/JCUgjoGrMw — Saj Sadiq (@SajSadiqCricket) June 19, 2024 × Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: Australia continue winning run, beat Bangladesh by 28 runs via DLS method in Super 8s 'You guys have made it a habit to travel with wife on tours' Atif -- who represented Pakistan in one Test and three ODIs -- further stated, "Why do you allow families in big events?...Begum, jaan nahi chhodti; aapne aadat bana di hai, begum ko saath le ke ghoomne ki aadat hai (you guys have made it a habit to travel with wife on tours). They go out in the evening and focus shifts from cricket. They focus on family, kids, wife...Takeaways pe khana kha rahe hote hain...aur wahan pe unki movieyan chal rahi hoti hain (they are eating at takeaway joints and also being captured on videos by fans)." Atiq added, "Such a culture has been created in Pakistan cricket that nobody knows what is discipline...You have gone to play such a big event, where is your focus?...Can't you leave everything else and focus on cricket alone for two weeks? You are being paid crores annually." A lot has been said and written about Pakistan cricket following their shambolic performance in the ongoing ICC event. Reportedly, some big calls are set to be made and a lot of revamp is in store for the national team as well as for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

'17 players, 60 rooms': Former Pakistan cricketer SLAMS Babar & Co for 'holidaying in USA' post T20 WC debacle

<p>Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel has backed Virat Kohli to regain form ahead of India's Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan, at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Kohli has scored just five runs in three outings in the 20-nation tournament, being held in West Indies and the USA. However, Morkel feels Kohli is a 'class player' and will 'find ways to score runs at the right time'.</p>

<p>Ahead of the India-Afghanistan tie, Morkel told Star Sports, "Don’t worry about Virat. Class players find a way to score runs at the right time. If I was a bowler, I would be nervous to bowl to him upfront. He is a guy who can rotate the strike, put your good balls away from a four. I am excited to see how he goes. He always finds an answer and I just love watching him play."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/one-step-closer-former-aussie-captain-unfazed-by-virat-kohlis-lack-of-runs-in-t20-world-cup-733229">'One step closer...' - Former Aussie captain unfazed by Virat Kohli's lack of runs in T20 World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli looked a pale shadow of himself in the group stage, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Ireland, Pakistan and the USA before their Canada face-off got washed out. So far, he has managed just 1, 4 and 0 in three outings and will be desperate to get going in the Super 8s. He has a solid record versus Afghanistan in T20Is, amassing 201 runs in five innings at an average of 67 with a best of 122 not out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s along with Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Australia.&nbsp;</p>


Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel has backed Virat Kohli to regain form ahead of India's Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan, at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20).

Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel has backed Virat Kohli to regain form ahead of India's Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan, at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Kohli has scored just five runs in three outings in the 20-nation tournament, being held in West Indies and the USA. However, Morkel feels Kohli is a 'class player' and will 'find ways to score runs at the right time'. Ahead of the India-Afghanistan tie, Morkel told Star Sports, "Don’t worry about Virat. Class players find a way to score runs at the right time. If I was a bowler, I would be nervous to bowl to him upfront. He is a guy who can rotate the strike, put your good balls away from a four. I am excited to see how he goes. He always finds an answer and I just love watching him play." Also read: 'One step closer...' - Former Aussie captain unfazed by Virat Kohli's lack of runs in T20 World Cup Kohli looked a pale shadow of himself in the group stage, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Ireland, Pakistan and the USA before their Canada face-off got washed out. So far, he has managed just 1, 4 and 0 in three outings and will be desperate to get going in the Super 8s. He has a solid record versus Afghanistan in T20Is, amassing 201 runs in five innings at an average of 67 with a best of 122 not out. India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s along with Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Australia.

T20 WC: 'I would be nervous...' - Former SA pacer on Virat Kohli's poor run ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 clash

<p>Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has backed Virat Kohli despite the Indian star batter's rut in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. In four games, Kohli has managed only five runs in three outings as he struggled to get going for the one-time winners in their USA leg. Ahead of India's Super 8 game versus Afghanistan, Clarke feels Kohli is 'one step closer to making a big one' in the mega tournament and he will step up in crunch games.</p>

<p>Speaking on ESPNCricinfo's Around The Wicket, the 43-year-old backed calls to promote Kohli as an opener, along with captain Rohit Sharma, at the expense of Yashasvi Jaiswal.</p>

<p>He stated, "He had a great IPL, so you can understand their reason for doing that. I wouldn't concerned about 3 low scores. All that means to me he is one step closer to making a big one. It's the most important stage as well where the best players usually stand up."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/whatever-he-touches-kamran-akmal-on-prospects-of-gautam-gambhir-becoming-indias-next-coach-733182">'Whatever he touches...' - Kamran Akmal on prospects of Gautam Gambhir becoming India's next coach</a></strong></p>

<p>Clarke further opined that India need not tinker with their opening combination due to Kohli's low returns.</p>

<p>In this regard, he added, "I think if they feel that's their best 11, then keep him there. He has been playing on a pitch that has been tough for opening batters. I don't think 3 low scores make any difference to Kohli. If India feels it is their best 11 by him opening the bat. Because there was a lot of talk throughout the IPL that Virat was going to bat at No. 3 in this Indian team."</p>

<p>Rohit-led India are placed in Group 1 of the Super 8s, along with Australia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.</p>

<p>They face Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Thursday (June 20). So far, India are one of the unbeaten teams in the showpiece event and will hope to seal a semifinal spot soon.</p>


Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has backed Virat Kohli despite the Indian star batter's rut in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. In four games, Kohli has managed only five runs in three outings as he struggled to get going for the one-time winners in their USA leg.

Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has backed Virat Kohli despite the Indian star batter's rut in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. In four games, Kohli has managed only five runs in three outings as he struggled to get going for the one-time winners in their USA leg. Ahead of India's Super 8 game versus Afghanistan, Clarke feels Kohli is 'one step closer to making a big one' in the mega tournament and he will step up in crunch games. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo's Around The Wicket, the 43-year-old backed calls to promote Kohli as an opener, along with captain Rohit Sharma, at the expense of Yashasvi Jaiswal. He stated, "He had a great IPL, so you can understand their reason for doing that. I wouldn't concerned about 3 low scores. All that means to me he is one step closer to making a big one. It's the most important stage as well where the best players usually stand up." Also read: 'Whatever he touches...' - Kamran Akmal on prospects of Gautam Gambhir becoming India's next coach Clarke further opined that India need not tinker with their opening combination due to Kohli's low returns. In this regard, he added, "I think if they feel that's their best 11, then keep him there. He has been playing on a pitch that has been tough for opening batters. I don't think 3 low scores make any difference to Kohli. If India feels it is their best 11 by him opening the bat. Because there was a lot of talk throughout the IPL that Virat was going to bat at No. 3 in this Indian team." Rohit-led India are placed in Group 1 of the Super 8s, along with Australia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. They face Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Thursday (June 20). So far, India are one of the unbeaten teams in the showpiece event and will hope to seal a semifinal spot soon.

'One step closer...' - Former Aussie captain unfazed by Virat Kohli's lack of runs in T20 World Cup

<p>Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unlikely to take any immediate action on Babar Azam’s leadership role as they intend to focus on a reshuffle in the selection committee. Pakistan were eliminated in the group stage of the T20 World Cup where they lost to India and the co-hosts USA while they laboured their way to a win against Ireland. However, the PCB intends to shuffle the pack of selectors rather than focus on Babar’s captaincy performance.</p>

<h2><strong>Babar unlikely to face immediate action </strong></h2>

<p>One of the main reasons Babar will not face immediate action is because Pakistan are not in white-ball action until November. With time in hand, the board intends to keep the matter cool for the moment and instead make changes to the selection committee. The seven-member pack consisting of Wahab Riaz is unlikely to be retained with fresh faces expected to be included.</p>

<p>The existing selection committee came into existence after the ODI World Cup in India when Pakistan suffered a league stage exit. Inzamam-ul-Haq resigned from his post when Pakistan were unable to reach the top four of the ODI World Cup in November 2023 with Wahab and Co. being given the charge. However, they are unlikely to be retained as PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said at the time that the committee would "make a majority decision based around debate and argument to reach a satisfactory conclusion".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-464664-phil-salts-onslaught-off-romario-shepherd-goes-viral-during-wi-vs-eng-tie-watch-733478">T20 WC: 4,6,4,6,6,4! Phil Salt's ONSLAUGHT off Romario Shepherd goes viral during WI vs ENG tie - Watch</a></p>

<p>Wahab is unlikely to be included again despite enjoying de facto powers during the last few months as selection committee head. It is also understood that, before taking any concrete decision PCB will take feedback from head coach Gary Kirsten and his supporting staff. Like Wahab, Babar is also unlikely to regain his role and could be stripped of the captaincy&nbsp;from the white-ball format. He had already relinquished captaincy in the red-ball format in December 2023.</p>

<p>Though the PCB and the players agreed to three-year contracts in a landmark decision last year, it only applies to the overarching terms of the contract. Individual players can be moved up and down in categories - or left out altogether - depending on their performances.</p>


Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unlikely to take any immediate action on Babar Azam’s leadership role as they intend to focus on a reshuffle in the selection committee.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unlikely to take any immediate action on Babar Azam’s leadership role as they intend to focus on a reshuffle in the selection committee. Pakistan were eliminated in the group stage of the T20 World Cup where they lost to India and the co-hosts USA while they laboured their way to a win against Ireland. However, the PCB intends to shuffle the pack of selectors rather than focus on Babar’s captaincy performance. Babar unlikely to face immediate action One of the main reasons Babar will not face immediate action is because Pakistan are not in white-ball action until November. With time in hand, the board intends to keep the matter cool for the moment and instead make changes to the selection committee. The seven-member pack consisting of Wahab Riaz is unlikely to be retained with fresh faces expected to be included. The existing selection committee came into existence after the ODI World Cup in India when Pakistan suffered a league stage exit. Inzamam-ul-Haq resigned from his post when Pakistan were unable to reach the top four of the ODI World Cup in November 2023 with Wahab and Co. being given the charge. However, they are unlikely to be retained as PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said at the time that the committee would "make a majority decision based around debate and argument to reach a satisfactory conclusion". ALSO READ | T20 WC: 4,6,4,6,6,4! Phil Salt's ONSLAUGHT off Romario Shepherd goes viral during WI vs ENG tie - Watch Wahab is unlikely to be included again despite enjoying de facto powers during the last few months as selection committee head. It is also understood that, before taking any concrete decision PCB will take feedback from head coach Gary Kirsten and his supporting staff. Like Wahab, Babar is also unlikely to regain his role and could be stripped of the captaincy from the white-ball format. He had already relinquished captaincy in the red-ball format in December 2023. Though the PCB and the players agreed to three-year contracts in a landmark decision last year, it only applies to the overarching terms of the contract. Individual players can be moved up and down in categories - or left out altogether - depending on their performances.

Babar Azam unlikely to face immediate action after poor T20 WC show; PCB to shuffle selection committee

<p>Defending champions England rode on Phil Salt's 87*, Jonny Bairstow's 48* and a disciplined death-over bowling to beat unbeaten co-hosts West Indies by eight wickets in the second game of the Super 8s in the ongoing T20 World Cup on Wednesday (June 19, local time). After restricting the Rovman Powell-led Windies for 180/4, thanks to Adil Rashid's 1 for 21 and Jofra Archer's 3 for 34, Jos Buttler &amp; Co. made merry courtesy of Salt's brilliant knock and Bairstow's counterattack. However, it was the 16th over of England's run-chase which made heads turn as Romario Shepherd conceded 30 due to Salt's masterful strokeplay.</p>

<p>Talking about the 16th over, England needed 40 off the last 30 deliveries when Shepherd came to bowl. The pacer, in his second over, was clueless against&nbsp;Salt's onslaught as the right-hander smashed the ball to all parts of the ground. He punished the full as well as the short-length deliveries, timed one above the keeper's head for a four and smashed some maximums to send the English fans into a frenzy. As a result, 30 came off the six deliveries -- including three sixes -- as England killed the contest.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the video of Salt's onslaught:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Most expensive overs in Men’s T20 WC</strong></p>

<p>36 - Stuart Broad (England) vs IND, Durban, 2007<br />
36 - Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan) vs WI, Gros Islet, 2024<br />
33 - Jeremy Gordon (Canada) vs USA, Dallas, 2024<br />
32 - Izatullah Dawlatzai (Afghanistan) vs ENG, Colombo (RPS), 2012<br />
30 - Bilawal Bhatti (Pakistan) vs AUS, Mirpur, 2014<br />
<strong>30 - Romario Shepherd (West Indies) vs ENG, Gros Islet, 2024 &nbsp;-- Most by a West Indian</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/please-let-virat-kohli-sa-great-ab-de-villiers-requests-india-before-super-8-tie-vs-afghanistan-733418">T20 World Cup: 'Please let Virat Kohli....' - AB de Villiers requests India before Super 8 tie vs Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the WI innings, several batters such as Nicholas Pooran, captain Powell and Sherfane Rutherford came up with vital contributions but none made a solid impact. Thus, the two-time winners managed a par score in St Lucia, posting 180/4. In reply, England openers Buttler and Salt added 67 for the first wicket and while they were reduced to 84 for 2, Bairstow-Salt's unbroken 97-run third-wicket stand helped them win in 17.3 overs.</p>

<p>With this win, England started the Super 8s of the mega event, being held in the West Indies and the USA, in style. At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Salt said, "I like batting here, but I'm more happy to have contributed to a good team win. It was tough against spin in the middle overs, but I knew pace would come at some stage, the wind was blowing at one end, there was one short boundary and I backed myself to take on him (on his 30-run over against Shepherd). There was a period where I didn't face too many balls, the boundaries had dried up, but Jonny (Bairstow) took the pressure off me with his calculated hitting, his knock was very crucial."</p>


Defending champions England rode on Phil Salt's 87*, Jonny Bairstow's 48* and a disciplined death-over bowling to beat unbeaten co-hosts West Indies by eight wickets in the second game of the Super 8s in the ongoing T20 World Cup on Wednesday (June 19, local time).

Defending champions England rode on Phil Salt's 87*, Jonny Bairstow's 48* and a disciplined death-over bowling to beat unbeaten co-hosts West Indies by eight wickets in the second game of the Super 8s in the ongoing T20 World Cup on Wednesday (June 19, local time). After restricting the Rovman Powell-led Windies for 180/4, thanks to Adil Rashid's 1 for 21 and Jofra Archer's 3 for 34, Jos Buttler & Co. made merry courtesy of Salt's brilliant knock and Bairstow's counterattack. However, it was the 16th over of England's run-chase which made heads turn as Romario Shepherd conceded 30 due to Salt's masterful strokeplay. Talking about the 16th over, England needed 40 off the last 30 deliveries when Shepherd came to bowl. The pacer, in his second over, was clueless against Salt's onslaught as the right-hander smashed the ball to all parts of the ground. He punished the full as well as the short-length deliveries, timed one above the keeper's head for a four and smashed some maximums to send the English fans into a frenzy. As a result, 30 came off the six deliveries -- including three sixes -- as England killed the contest. Here is the video of Salt's onslaught: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Most expensive overs in Men’s T20 WC 36 - Stuart Broad (England) vs IND, Durban, 2007 36 - Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan) vs WI, Gros Islet, 2024 33 - Jeremy Gordon (Canada) vs USA, Dallas, 2024 32 - Izatullah Dawlatzai (Afghanistan) vs ENG, Colombo (RPS), 2012 30 - Bilawal Bhatti (Pakistan) vs AUS, Mirpur, 2014 30 - Romario Shepherd (West Indies) vs ENG, Gros Islet, 2024 -- Most by a West Indian Also read: T20 World Cup: 'Please let Virat Kohli....' - AB de Villiers requests India before Super 8 tie vs Afghanistan Talking about the WI innings, several batters such as Nicholas Pooran, captain Powell and Sherfane Rutherford came up with vital contributions but none made a solid impact. Thus, the two-time winners managed a par score in St Lucia, posting 180/4. In reply, England openers Buttler and Salt added 67 for the first wicket and while they were reduced to 84 for 2, Bairstow-Salt's unbroken 97-run third-wicket stand helped them win in 17.3 overs. With this win, England started the Super 8s of the mega event, being held in the West Indies and the USA, in style. At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Salt said, "I like batting here, but I'm more happy to have contributed to a good team win. It was tough against spin in the middle overs, but I knew pace would come at some stage, the wind was blowing at one end, there was one short boundary and I backed myself to take on him (on his 30-run over against Shepherd). There was a period where I didn't face too many balls, the boundaries had dried up, but Jonny (Bairstow) took the pressure off me with his calculated hitting, his knock was very crucial."

T20 WC: 4,6,4,6,6,4! Phil Salt's ONSLAUGHT off Romario Shepherd during WI vs ENG tie goes viral - Watch

<p>Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has urged the Indian team management to send Virat Kohli at No. 3 ahead of their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup. In the ongoing 20-nation tournament, in West Indies and the USA, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will face Afghanistan in their opening Super 8 clash at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Before the tie, de Villiers requested India to not open with Kohli-Rohit and drop the former to No. 3, his original spot.</p>

<p>Kohli has been opening the innings for India in the ongoing ICC event. Riding on the back of a successful run in IPL 2024, where he ended as the Orange Cap winner by making 741 runs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as an opener, Kohli was promoted up the order for India; resulting in Yashasvi Jaiswal's ouster. However, the 35-year-old only managed five runs in the three outings during the group stage of the T20 WC. Thus, ABD has reckoned that Kohli is ideal for No. 3 where he is the best in soaking pressure in the middle overs.</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, De Villiers pointed out, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-i-would-be-nervous-former-sa-pacer-on-virat-kohlis-poor-run-ahead-of-ind-vs-afg-super-8-clash-733394">T20 WC: 'I would be nervous...' - Former SA pacer on Virat Kohli's poor run ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 clash</a></strong></p>

<p>The South African also feels that Rohit &amp; Co. need to be little more attacking to break their 11-year-jinx of not winning an ICC title.</p>

<p>ABD added, "Just make sure you throw the first punch. In the past World Cups, I think they have been a bit conservative, sort of feeling their way into a game. They are such a quality team that I feel they can take a bit of a risk early in the game to get the momentum because there is no looking back once they get the momentum."</p>

<p>India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s, also featuring Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.</p>


Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has urged the Indian team management to send Virat Kohli at No. 3 ahead of their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup.

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has urged the Indian team management to send Virat Kohli at No. 3 ahead of their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup. In the ongoing 20-nation tournament, in West Indies and the USA, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will face Afghanistan in their opening Super 8 clash at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Before the tie, de Villiers requested India to not open with Kohli-Rohit and drop the former to No. 3, his original spot. Kohli has been opening the innings for India in the ongoing ICC event. Riding on the back of a successful run in IPL 2024, where he ended as the Orange Cap winner by making 741 runs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as an opener, Kohli was promoted up the order for India; resulting in Yashasvi Jaiswal's ouster. However, the 35-year-old only managed five runs in the three outings during the group stage of the T20 WC. Thus, ABD has reckoned that Kohli is ideal for No. 3 where he is the best in soaking pressure in the middle overs. On his YouTube channel, De Villiers pointed out, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)." Also read: T20 WC: 'I would be nervous...' - Former SA pacer on Virat Kohli's poor run ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 clash The South African also feels that Rohit & Co. need to be little more attacking to break their 11-year-jinx of not winning an ICC title. ABD added, "Just make sure you throw the first punch. In the past World Cups, I think they have been a bit conservative, sort of feeling their way into a game. They are such a quality team that I feel they can take a bit of a risk early in the game to get the momentum because there is no looking back once they get the momentum." India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s, also featuring Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

T20 World Cup: 'Please let Virat Kohli....' - De Villiers' request to India before Super 8 tie vs Afghanistan

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidKRQeBsaFbfQx" /></p>

<p>Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has accused Pakistan selector Wahab Riaz of practising favouritism while picking up the national squad. Riaz was appointed as the&nbsp;chief selector of the Pakistan national men's selection committee in November last year and immediately called up his colleague from the playing days, Mohammad Amir, back into the squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sehwag pointed out that Amir had retired and was questioning the team on national TV but as soon as Wahab came into the picture, the left-arm pacer was on the flight to the US and West Indies to play in the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wahaz Riaz and Mohammad Amir are the two names who used to give their opinions on Pakistan TV news channels against their national team. Now one of them is a selector and the other is in playing XI. They were criticising the team once and now when they have come to power, what are they doing?" Sehwag said on <em>Cricbuzz </em>during a discussion.</p>

<p>"Amir has played with me so let's take him in the team.&nbsp;This can't be done," said the former India opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/come-forward-and-virender-sehwags-brutal-suggestion-to-shakib-al-hasan-after-t20-world-cup-failure-730815" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;'Come forward and...': Virender Sehwag's brutal suggestion to Shakib Al-Hasan after T20 World Cup failure</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Trouble in Pakistan cricket&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sehwag cited the example of India chief selector Ajit Agarkar and how it would be unfair to the current crop of players if any of the retired players, including him, were preferred over the current crop of players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Now that Ajit Agarkar is the chairman of selectors for BCCI, he would say 'Come on Viru, I'll help you make a comeback into the team'. This is not done. You have to see the future. You have become a selector, you have a job in hand. Use it in the right way, don't do favours," said Sehwag.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from player selection, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has come under heavy scrutiny for the captaincy saga. Pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was removed as the T20I captain after only four months at the helm and Babar Azam was reappointed in his place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Babar got the nod despite having led Pakistan to a disastrous group-stage exit at the 50-over World Cup in India last year. The decision to give the captaincy armband to Babar backfired yet again&nbsp;as Pakistan failed to progress to the Super 8&nbsp;at the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has accused Pakistan selector Wahab Riaz of practising favouritism while picking up the national squad. Riaz was appointed as the chief selector of the Pakistan national men's selection committee in November last year and immediately called up his colleague from the playing days, Mohammad Amir, back into the squad.

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has accused Pakistan selector Wahab Riaz of practising favouritism while picking up the national squad. Riaz was appointed as the chief selector of the Pakistan national men's selection committee in November last year and immediately called up his colleague from the playing days, Mohammad Amir, back into the squad. Sehwag pointed out that Amir had retired and was questioning the team on national TV but as soon as Wahab came into the picture, the left-arm pacer was on the flight to the US and West Indies to play in the T20 World Cup. "Wahaz Riaz and Mohammad Amir are the two names who used to give their opinions on Pakistan TV news channels against their national team. Now one of them is a selector and the other is in playing XI. They were criticising the team once and now when they have come to power, what are they doing?" Sehwag said on Cricbuzz during a discussion. "Amir has played with me so let's take him in the team. This can't be done," said the former India opener. Also read | 'Come forward and...': Virender Sehwag's brutal suggestion to Shakib Al-Hasan after T20 World Cup failure Trouble in Pakistan cricket Sehwag cited the example of India chief selector Ajit Agarkar and how it would be unfair to the current crop of players if any of the retired players, including him, were preferred over the current crop of players. "Now that Ajit Agarkar is the chairman of selectors for BCCI, he would say 'Come on Viru, I'll help you make a comeback into the team'. This is not done. You have to see the future. You have become a selector, you have a job in hand. Use it in the right way, don't do favours," said Sehwag. Apart from player selection, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has come under heavy scrutiny for the captaincy saga. Pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was removed as the T20I captain after only four months at the helm and Babar Azam was reappointed in his place. Babar got the nod despite having led Pakistan to a disastrous group-stage exit at the 50-over World Cup in India last year. The decision to give the captaincy armband to Babar backfired yet again as Pakistan failed to progress to the Super 8 at the T20 World Cup. (With inputs from agencies)

Virender Sehwag accuses Pakistan chief selector Wahab Riaz of favouritism

<p>South Africa made a winning start in Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup with an 18-run victory against USA on Wednesday (June 19). Chasing 195, USA came close thanks to Andries Gous' unbeaten 47-ball 80 but could eventually manage 176/6 in 20 overs.</p>

<p>South Africa's Kagiso Rabada bowled a brilliant 19th over, giving away just two runs and taking a wicket, as USA threatened to make another upset after taking 22 runs in the 18th over.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-w-vs-sa-w-smriti-mandhana-equals-virat-kohli-harmanpreet-hits-fastest-ton-for-india-women-in-2nd-odi-733303">IND W vs SA W: Smriti Mandhana equals Virat Kohli, Harmanpreet hits fastest ton for India women in 2nd ODI</a></p>

<p>USA, however, started poorly in chase as they lost two wickets inside the powerplay but managed to score 53 runs at nearly nine runs per over. Protea bowlers then came back strongly as USA crawled to 76 runs in 11.1 overs but lost three more wickets.</p>

<p>Opener Gous then added 91 runs with Harmeet Singh (38 off 22) in just seven overs as SA stared at an upset. The SA bowlers, however, kept their nerve to close out the game.</p>

<p>Earlier, USA won the toss and elected to bowl first. South Africa lost the first wicket early for just 16 runs in Rezza Hendricks but Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram then stabilised the innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The duo added 110 runs for the second wicket before Harmeet Singh removed de Kock (74 off 40) and David Miller (0) off consecutive balls in the 13th over.</p>

<p>Markram also departed soon thanks to USA's breakout star Saurabh Netravalkar, who took 2/21 in four overs, as USA bowlers brought SA's run-rate in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Heinrich Klaasen (36 not out off 22) and Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 20 off 16) then added 53 runs in the last five overs as SA finished with an above-par total of 194/4 in their 20 overs.</p>

<p>USA next play against West Indies on June 22 while South Africa's next match is on June 21 against defending champions England.</p>


South Africa made a winning start in Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup with an 18-run victory against USA on Wednesday (June 19). Chasing 195, USA came close thanks to Andries Gous' unbeaten 47-ball 80 but could eventually manage 176/6 in 20 overs.

South Africa made a winning start in Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup with an 18-run victory against USA on Wednesday (June 19). Chasing 195, USA came close thanks to Andries Gous' unbeaten 47-ball 80 but could eventually manage 176/6 in 20 overs. South Africa's Kagiso Rabada bowled a brilliant 19th over, giving away just two runs and taking a wicket, as USA threatened to make another upset after taking 22 runs in the 18th over. Also Read: IND W vs SA W: Smriti Mandhana equals Virat Kohli, Harmanpreet hits fastest ton for India women in 2nd ODI USA, however, started poorly in chase as they lost two wickets inside the powerplay but managed to score 53 runs at nearly nine runs per over. Protea bowlers then came back strongly as USA crawled to 76 runs in 11.1 overs but lost three more wickets. Opener Gous then added 91 runs with Harmeet Singh (38 off 22) in just seven overs as SA stared at an upset. The SA bowlers, however, kept their nerve to close out the game. Earlier, USA won the toss and elected to bowl first. South Africa lost the first wicket early for just 16 runs in Rezza Hendricks but Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram then stabilised the innings. The duo added 110 runs for the second wicket before Harmeet Singh removed de Kock (74 off 40) and David Miller (0) off consecutive balls in the 13th over. Markram also departed soon thanks to USA's breakout star Saurabh Netravalkar, who took 2/21 in four overs, as USA bowlers brought SA's run-rate in check. Heinrich Klaasen (36 not out off 22) and Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 20 off 16) then added 53 runs in the last five overs as SA finished with an above-par total of 194/4 in their 20 overs. USA next play against West Indies on June 22 while South Africa's next match is on June 21 against defending champions England.

T20 World Cup 2024: Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada star as South Africa beat USA in opening Super 8 game

<p>Defending champions England ended co-hosts West Indies' unbeaten run in the ongoing T20 World Cup with a big eight-wicket win in the second game of the Super 8s, in St Lucia on Wednesday (June 19, local time). Restricting the Rovman Powell-led WI for 180 for 4, England rode on opener Phil Salt's unbeaten 87 and Jonny Bairstow's 48* to guide their side to a comfortable win in 17.3&nbsp;overs.</p>

<p>Opting to bowl first, Jos Buttler-led England were eyeing early wickets. WI opener Brandan King started off confidently, with a 101 metre six, before walking out due to a groin pull. Jonathan Charles and Nicholas Pooran, at No. 3, took their time to settle in as WI were 82 for no loss at the halfway mark. Moeen Ali dismissed Charles for a 34-ball 38 before captain Powell (17-ball 36) struck&nbsp;three sixes off a single Livingstone over but was dismissed while trying for a fourth. Pooran (36) and Andre Russell also departed soon before Sherfane&nbsp;Rutherford's 15-ball 28* propelled his side to a par score, i.e. 180/4.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WI only managed 53 runs, for the loss of two wickets, in the last five overs as Jofra Archer (1 for 34) and Adil Rashid (1 for 21) kept it tight for England.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-quinton-de-kock-kagiso-rabada-star-as-south-africa-beat-usa-in-opening-super-8-game-733310">T20 World Cup 2024: Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada star as South Africa beat USA in opening Super 8 game</a></strong></p>

<p>In reply, England openers Buttler and Salt gave their side a perfect start navigating through the powerplays in style. While the wicketkeeper-captain fell for a 22-ball 25, off Roston Chase, and vice-captain Moeen Ali, promoted at No. 3, departed for 13, England never looked in trouble due to their timely hits. From WI, Akeal Hosein and Chase were economical but the likes of Romario Shepherd, Russell and Alzarri Joseph went for plenty as the hosts ended their eight-match winning streak in T20Is.</p>

<p>Salt timed his inning perfectly and shifted gears to wrap up the run-chase in a flash. His inning was laced with 7 fours and 5 sixes, at a strike rate of 185.11. Meanwhile, Bairstow -- at No. 4 -- looked fluent from the moment he came in and struck at all parts of the ground. He stitched an unbroken 97-run third-wicket stand with Salt as England&nbsp;made a strong statement in their opening Super 8 encounter.</p>

<p>Earlier in the same&nbsp;group, i.e. Group 2, South Africa beat co-hosts USA by 18&nbsp;runs in Antigua on Wednesday.</p>


Defending champions England ended co-hosts West Indies' unbeaten run in the ongoing T20 World Cup with a big eight-wicket win in the second game of the Super 8s, in St Lucia on Wednesday (June 19, local time).

Defending champions England ended co-hosts West Indies' unbeaten run in the ongoing T20 World Cup with a big eight-wicket win in the second game of the Super 8s, in St Lucia on Wednesday (June 19, local time). Restricting the Rovman Powell-led WI for 180 for 4, England rode on opener Phil Salt's unbeaten 87 and Jonny Bairstow's 48* to guide their side to a comfortable win in 17.3 overs. Opting to bowl first, Jos Buttler-led England were eyeing early wickets. WI opener Brandan King started off confidently, with a 101 metre six, before walking out due to a groin pull. Jonathan Charles and Nicholas Pooran, at No. 3, took their time to settle in as WI were 82 for no loss at the halfway mark. Moeen Ali dismissed Charles for a 34-ball 38 before captain Powell (17-ball 36) struck three sixes off a single Livingstone over but was dismissed while trying for a fourth. Pooran (36) and Andre Russell also departed soon before Sherfane Rutherford's 15-ball 28* propelled his side to a par score, i.e. 180/4. WI only managed 53 runs, for the loss of two wickets, in the last five overs as Jofra Archer (1 for 34) and Adil Rashid (1 for 21) kept it tight for England. Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada star as South Africa beat USA in opening Super 8 game In reply, England openers Buttler and Salt gave their side a perfect start navigating through the powerplays in style. While the wicketkeeper-captain fell for a 22-ball 25, off Roston Chase, and vice-captain Moeen Ali, promoted at No. 3, departed for 13, England never looked in trouble due to their timely hits. From WI, Akeal Hosein and Chase were economical but the likes of Romario Shepherd, Russell and Alzarri Joseph went for plenty as the hosts ended their eight-match winning streak in T20Is. Salt timed his inning perfectly and shifted gears to wrap up the run-chase in a flash. His inning was laced with 7 fours and 5 sixes, at a strike rate of 185.11. Meanwhile, Bairstow -- at No. 4 -- looked fluent from the moment he came in and struck at all parts of the ground. He stitched an unbroken 97-run third-wicket stand with Salt as England made a strong statement in their opening Super 8 encounter. Earlier in the same group, i.e. Group 2, South Africa beat co-hosts USA by 18 runs in Antigua on Wednesday.

T20 WC: Phil Salt, Jonny Bairstow and bowlers star in England's comfortable Super 8 win vs West Indies

<p>Indian Women's Smriti Mandhana and Harmapreet Kaur hit centuries in the second ODI of the three-match series against South Africa Women on Wednesday (June 19) to break plethora of records.</p>

<p>Mandhana scored 136 and skipper Kaur hit 103 as India posted 325/3 in 50 overs. In reply, SA Women's Marizanne Kapp hit 114 and Laura Wolvaardt scored 135 but could manage only 321/6 in 50 overs and lost the game by four runs.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's list of all records broken in IND W vs SA W second ODI&nbsp;match:</strong></h2>

<p>The match saw a total of 646 runs being scored - the second highest ever in a women's ODI behind only 678 runs scored between England and South Africa in 2012.</p>

<p>India Women vs SA Women second ODI witnessed 15 sixes in total - eight from India and seven from SA &nbsp;- the highest ever in a women's ODI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-usas-saurabh-netravalkar-impresses-with-another-brilliant-spell-in-super-8-vs-sa-watch-733291">T20 World Cup 2024: USA's Saurabh Netravalkar impresses again with BRILLIANT spell in Super 8 vs SA&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>India skipper Kaur reached her hundred in 87 balls - the fastest ever for India women. Kaur improved on her previous record of 90 balls against Australia in 2017 World Cup semifinal.</p>

<p>With her 136 in India W vs SA W second ODI to go with 117 in the first ODI of the series, Mandhana became the first India Women batter ever to score two consecutive hundreds.</p>

<p>Mandhana's 136 is also the highest ever individual score for India Women at home in ODIs, improving from her record of 117 runs from the first match of the series.</p>

<p>This was Mandhana's seventh ODI career hundred - joint most for India women along with former skipper Mithali Raj. Mandhana also become second India player after Virat Kohli to score two or more hundred in one ODI series against South Africa.</p>

<p>South Africa's 321 runs in chase are also the most by any team in a Women's ODI. The previous best was also of South Africa - 305/9 against England in 2017 - that too in a losing cause.</p>


Indian Women's Smriti Mandhana and Harmapreet Kaur hit centuries in the second ODI of the three-match series against South Africa Women on Wednesday (June 19) to break plethora of records.

Indian Women's Smriti Mandhana and Harmapreet Kaur hit centuries in the second ODI of the three-match series against South Africa Women on Wednesday (June 19) to break plethora of records. Mandhana scored 136 and skipper Kaur hit 103 as India posted 325/3 in 50 overs. In reply, SA Women's Marizanne Kapp hit 114 and Laura Wolvaardt scored 135 but could manage only 321/6 in 50 overs and lost the game by four runs. Here's list of all records broken in IND W vs SA W second ODI match: The match saw a total of 646 runs being scored - the second highest ever in a women's ODI behind only 678 runs scored between England and South Africa in 2012. India Women vs SA Women second ODI witnessed 15 sixes in total - eight from India and seven from SA - the highest ever in a women's ODI. Also Watch: T20 World Cup 2024: USA's Saurabh Netravalkar impresses again with BRILLIANT spell in Super 8 vs SA India skipper Kaur reached her hundred in 87 balls - the fastest ever for India women. Kaur improved on her previous record of 90 balls against Australia in 2017 World Cup semifinal. With her 136 in India W vs SA W second ODI to go with 117 in the first ODI of the series, Mandhana became the first India Women batter ever to score two consecutive hundreds. Mandhana's 136 is also the highest ever individual score for India Women at home in ODIs, improving from her record of 117 runs from the first match of the series. This was Mandhana's seventh ODI career hundred - joint most for India women along with former skipper Mithali Raj. Mandhana also become second India player after Virat Kohli to score two or more hundred in one ODI series against South Africa. South Africa's 321 runs in chase are also the most by any team in a Women's ODI. The previous best was also of South Africa - 305/9 against England in 2017 - that too in a losing cause.

IND W vs SA W: Smriti Mandhana equals Virat Kohli, Harmanpreet hits fastest ton for India women in 2nd ODI

<p>USA bowler Saurabh Netravalkar continued his dream run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 with another brilliant spell on Wednesday (June 19). Netravalkar finished with 2/21 in four overs in USA's first Super Eight stage game against South Africa in North Sound.</p>

<p>Netravalkar went at an economy of 5.25 while rest of the bowlers went at nine or above, except for&nbsp;Harmeet Singh&nbsp;who took 2/24 in four overs at 6 runs per over.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-aussie-glenn-maxwell-reveals-getting-texts-from-england-players-ahead-of-scotland-game-733199">T20 World Cup 2024: Aussie Glenn Maxwell reveals getting texts from England players ahead of Scotland game</a></p>

<p>The techie-turned-bowler dismissed Protea opener Rezza Hendricks for his first wicket of the match with a length ball in the third over of the innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hendricks, who's having a forgettable tournament with the bat, sent the ball high up in the air which was pouched safely by Corey Anderson. Have a look at the wicket below:</p>

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<p>For his second wicket, Netravalkar dismissed Proteas skipper Aiden Markram at a time when the batter was getting dangerous for the USA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netravalkar bowled a full ball outside off, which Markram sliced to deep backward point but straight into the hands of Ali Khan who took a sharp catch. Have a look at the wicket below:</p>

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<p>Netravalkar now has six wickets in the tournament including four in the group stage where he dismissed likes of Virat Kohli, Muhammad Rizwan&nbsp;and Rohit Sharma. He finished with 2/18 in four against both India and Pakistan in group stage but went wicketless against Canada while the match against Ireland was washed out.</p>

<p>As for the match, USA won the toss and elected to bowl first. South Africa lost the first wicket early for just 16 runs in Hendricks but Quinton de Kock and Markram then stabilised the innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The duo added 110 runs for the second wicket before Harmeet removed de Kock (74 off 40) and David Miller (0) off consecutive balls in the 13th over.</p>

<p>Markram also departed soon at a team score of 141 with five overs left as USA bowlers brought SA's run-rate in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Heinrich Klaasen (36 not out off 22) and Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 20 off 16) then added 53 runs in the last five overs as SA finished with an above-par total of 194/4 in their 20 overs.</p>


USA bowler Saurabh Netravalkar continued his dream run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 with another brilliant spell on Wednesday (June 19). Netravalkar finished with 2/21 in four overs in USA's first Super Eight stage game against South Africa in North Sound.

USA bowler Saurabh Netravalkar continued his dream run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 with another brilliant spell on Wednesday (June 19). Netravalkar finished with 2/21 in four overs in USA's first Super Eight stage game against South Africa in North Sound. Netravalkar went at an economy of 5.25 while rest of the bowlers went at nine or above, except for Harmeet Singh who took 2/24 in four overs at 6 runs per over. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: Aussie Glenn Maxwell reveals getting texts from England players ahead of Scotland game The techie-turned-bowler dismissed Protea opener Rezza Hendricks for his first wicket of the match with a length ball in the third over of the innings. Hendricks, who's having a forgettable tournament with the bat, sent the ball high up in the air which was pouched safely by Corey Anderson. Have a look at the wicket below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × For his second wicket, Netravalkar dismissed Proteas skipper Aiden Markram at a time when the batter was getting dangerous for the USA. Netravalkar bowled a full ball outside off, which Markram sliced to deep backward point but straight into the hands of Ali Khan who took a sharp catch. Have a look at the wicket below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Netravalkar now has six wickets in the tournament including four in the group stage where he dismissed likes of Virat Kohli, Muhammad Rizwan and Rohit Sharma. He finished with 2/18 in four against both India and Pakistan in group stage but went wicketless against Canada while the match against Ireland was washed out. As for the match, USA won the toss and elected to bowl first. South Africa lost the first wicket early for just 16 runs in Hendricks but Quinton de Kock and Markram then stabilised the innings. The duo added 110 runs for the second wicket before Harmeet removed de Kock (74 off 40) and David Miller (0) off consecutive balls in the 13th over. Markram also departed soon at a team score of 141 with five overs left as USA bowlers brought SA's run-rate in check. Heinrich Klaasen (36 not out off 22) and Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 20 off 16) then added 53 runs in the last five overs as SA finished with an above-par total of 194/4 in their 20 overs.

T20 World Cup 2024: USA's Saurabh Netravalkar impresses again with BRILLIANT spell in Super 8 vs SA - WATCH

<p>Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has come to the defence of Haris Rauf after the pacer was involved in an altercation with a fan while out on a stroll with his wife. The video of the incident went viral on social media on Tueday (Jun 18) and showed Rauf having a go at the fan who said something to incense him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naqvi took to social media to condemn the incident and suggested that the 'fan' involved apologise to Rauf or face legal action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated," said Naqvi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual responsible," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual…</p>
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohsinnaqviC42/status/1803058557207674926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rauf's current and former teammates also came in his defence and urged the fans to behave properly when they meet the cricketers in public.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hasan Ali was the first to come out in Rauf's defence and said criticism against players is welcome but it should be done in a civil way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I've seen a video circulating online about Harry @HarisRauf14 and I urge all my dearest cricket fans to remember that criticism can be constructive without being hurtful. Let's keep the debate respectful and considerate of the players’ families. Let's promote love, peace and respect for the GAME. We all want Pakistan cricket to rise, love you all," said Ali.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I've seen a video circulating online about Harry <a href="https://twitter.com/HarisRauf14?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarisRauf14</a> and I urge all my dearest cricket fans to remember that criticism can be constructive without being hurtful. Let's keep the debate respectful and considerate of the players’ families. Let's promote love, peace and…</p>
— Hassan Ali 🇵🇰 (@RealHa55an) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealHa55an/status/1803021944247214547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>All-rounder Shadab Khan and 2017 Champions Trophy winner Junaid Khan released respective statements as well and batted for Rauf.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As a cricket lover, you can criticise the performance of players but NO ONE has the right to barge into personal space of players, and abuse their families.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/harisrauf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#harisrauf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/t20inUSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#t20inUSA</a></p>
— Junaid khan (@JunaidkhanREAL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JunaidkhanREAL/status/1803051289766449266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As a cricket lover, you can criticise the performance of players but NO ONE has the right to barge into personal space of players, and abuse their families.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/harisrauf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#harisrauf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/t20inUSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#t20inUSA</a></p>
— Junaid khan (@JunaidkhanREAL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JunaidkhanREAL/status/1803051289766449266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-pakistan-pacer-haris-rauf-charges-at-fan-he-thought-was-indian-video-goes-viral-732816">Watch: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf charges at fan he thought was 'Indian', VIDEO goes viral</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What did Rauf say?</strong></h2>

<p>After the video went viral, Rauf released a statement saying when it comes to his family, he will never 'hesitate' to take such action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I decided not to bring this on social media, But now that the video is out, I feel it is necessary to address the situation. As public figures, we are open to receiving all kinds of feedback from the public. They are entitled to support or criticise us," wrote Rauf.</p>

<p>"Nevertheless, when it comes to my parent and my family, I will not hesitate to respond accordingly. It is important to show respect towards people and their families, irrespective of their professions," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Rauf could be seen out and about with his wife when the said fan approached him. As the situation escalated, others around came and separated Rauf from the fan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has come to the defence of Haris Rauf after the pacer was involved in an altercation with a fan while out on a stroll with his wife.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has come to the defence of Haris Rauf after the pacer was involved in an altercation with a fan while out on a stroll with his wife. The video of the incident went viral on social media on Tueday (Jun 18) and showed Rauf having a go at the fan who said something to incense him. Naqvi took to social media to condemn the incident and suggested that the 'fan' involved apologise to Rauf or face legal action. "Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated," said Naqvi. "Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual responsible," he added. Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual… — Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) June 18, 2024 × Rauf's current and former teammates also came in his defence and urged the fans to behave properly when they meet the cricketers in public. Hasan Ali was the first to come out in Rauf's defence and said criticism against players is welcome but it should be done in a civil way. "I've seen a video circulating online about Harry @HarisRauf14 and I urge all my dearest cricket fans to remember that criticism can be constructive without being hurtful. Let's keep the debate respectful and considerate of the players’ families. Let's promote love, peace and respect for the GAME. We all want Pakistan cricket to rise, love you all," said Ali. I've seen a video circulating online about Harry @HarisRauf14 and I urge all my dearest cricket fans to remember that criticism can be constructive without being hurtful. Let's keep the debate respectful and considerate of the players’ families. Let's promote love, peace and… — Hassan Ali 🇵🇰 (@RealHa55an) June 18, 2024 × All-rounder Shadab Khan and 2017 Champions Trophy winner Junaid Khan released respective statements as well and batted for Rauf. As a cricket lover, you can criticise the performance of players but NO ONE has the right to barge into personal space of players, and abuse their families.#harisrauf #PakistanCricket #t20inUSA — Junaid khan (@JunaidkhanREAL) June 18, 2024 × As a cricket lover, you can criticise the performance of players but NO ONE has the right to barge into personal space of players, and abuse their families.#harisrauf #PakistanCricket #t20inUSA — Junaid khan (@JunaidkhanREAL) June 18, 2024 × Watch: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf charges at fan he thought was 'Indian', VIDEO goes viral What did Rauf say? After the video went viral, Rauf released a statement saying when it comes to his family, he will never 'hesitate' to take such action. "I decided not to bring this on social media, But now that the video is out, I feel it is necessary to address the situation. As public figures, we are open to receiving all kinds of feedback from the public. They are entitled to support or criticise us," wrote Rauf. "Nevertheless, when it comes to my parent and my family, I will not hesitate to respond accordingly. It is important to show respect towards people and their families, irrespective of their professions," he added. In the video, Rauf could be seen out and about with his wife when the said fan approached him. As the situation escalated, others around came and separated Rauf from the fan. (With inputs from agencies)

'Apologise or face action': Pakistan Cricket Board threatens fan involved in altercation with Haris Rauf

<p>New Zealand cricket team skipper Kane Williamson has stepped down from his role with immediate effect after his side exited the T20 World Cup 2024 in the group stage. Williamson, regarded as one of the greatest players in the New Zealand men’s cricket history has also denied a central contract for the 2024-25 season. New Zealand lost to Afghanistan and co-hosts West Indies in the group stage of the T20 World Cup which saw them pack their bags early from the competition.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Contract News | Kane Williamson has re-emphasised his long-term commitment to the BLACKCAPS in all three formats - despite declining a central contract for the 2024-25 year. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketNation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketNation</a> <a href="https://t.co/FhDIgpoifs">https://t.co/FhDIgpoifs</a></p>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1803208647968694472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Williamson relinquishes captaincy</strong></h2>

<p>Having already stepped down from the captaincy role in the Test format, Williamson stepped down from his role in both T20I and ODI cricket on Wednesday (June 19). Williamson’s decision comes after his side was reported to have landed back in New Zealand after enduring a tough period in the T20 World Cup where their defeats to Afghanistan and the West Indies saw them miss out on Super 8 qualification.</p>

<p>"Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I'm very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards," Williamson said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) release. "However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I'm unable to accept a central contract offer."</p>

<p>Despite opting not to take the central contract for the 2024-25 season, where New Zealand will play little cricket on home turf, Williamson has committed his desire to remain available for the side. He is also open to a future contract from the board with the World Test Championship (WTC) and Champions Trophy on the horizon in 2025.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-arda-gulers-wonder-goal-helps-turkiye-sink-georgia-in-group-f-thriller-732972">Euro 2024: Arda Güler's wonder goal helps Türkiye sink Georgia in Group F thriller</a></p>

<p>"Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure, and my desire to give back to the team remains undiminished," he said. "My life outside cricket has changed, however. Spending more time with my family and enjoying experiences with them at home or abroad is something that's even more important to me."</p>

<p>Alongside Williamson, speedster Lockie Ferguson has also denied taking a central contract for the 2024-25 season. He signed off from the T20 World Cup with an impressive showing against Papua New Guinea with figures of 4-4-0-3 on Monday. &nbsp;</p>


New Zealand cricket team skipper Kane Williamson has stepped down from his role with immediate effect after his side exited the T20 World Cup 2024 in the group stage.

New Zealand cricket team skipper Kane Williamson has stepped down from his role with immediate effect after his side exited the T20 World Cup 2024 in the group stage. Williamson, regarded as one of the greatest players in the New Zealand men’s cricket history has also denied a central contract for the 2024-25 season. New Zealand lost to Afghanistan and co-hosts West Indies in the group stage of the T20 World Cup which saw them pack their bags early from the competition. Contract News | Kane Williamson has re-emphasised his long-term commitment to the BLACKCAPS in all three formats - despite declining a central contract for the 2024-25 year. #CricketNation https://t.co/FhDIgpoifs — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 18, 2024 × Williamson relinquishes captaincy Having already stepped down from the captaincy role in the Test format, Williamson stepped down from his role in both T20I and ODI cricket on Wednesday (June 19). Williamson’s decision comes after his side was reported to have landed back in New Zealand after enduring a tough period in the T20 World Cup where their defeats to Afghanistan and the West Indies saw them miss out on Super 8 qualification. "Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I'm very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards," Williamson said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) release. "However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I'm unable to accept a central contract offer." Despite opting not to take the central contract for the 2024-25 season, where New Zealand will play little cricket on home turf, Williamson has committed his desire to remain available for the side. He is also open to a future contract from the board with the World Test Championship (WTC) and Champions Trophy on the horizon in 2025. ALSO READ | Euro 2024: Arda Güler's wonder goal helps Türkiye sink Georgia in Group F thriller "Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure, and my desire to give back to the team remains undiminished," he said. "My life outside cricket has changed, however. Spending more time with my family and enjoying experiences with them at home or abroad is something that's even more important to me." Alongside Williamson, speedster Lockie Ferguson has also denied taking a central contract for the 2024-25 season. He signed off from the T20 World Cup with an impressive showing against Papua New Guinea with figures of 4-4-0-3 on Monday.

New Zealand's Kane Williamson steps down from captaincy after early exit from T20 World Cup

<p>A former Kenyan international approached a Ugandan player at the ongoing T20 World Cup for match-fixing, a PTI news agency report has claimed. The incident took place during the league phase of the tournament which culminated on Monday (Jun 17).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged match-fixer approached the Ugandan player multiple times from different numbers. However, the unnamed player reported the approach to Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) officials, following ICC's strict&nbsp;anti-corruption protocol.</p>

<p>"It is not a surprise that this person targeted a player from the Ugandan national team. Associate nations, as compared to the big teams, are soft targets for corruption but in this case the player who was approached did the needful by informing the ICC at the earliest," a source was quoted as saying by the news wire agency.</p>

<p>"Players are approached all the time, more so from smaller nations. In bigger events like the T20 World Cup, there is more scrutiny and if an approach is conveyed to the ICC ACU, then due protocol is followed and a proper investigation is conducted."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-200-per-cent-sure-he-cant-do-ishant-recalls-being-investigated-for-match-fixing-allegations-on-shami-561792"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do: Ishant recalls being investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Red flag raised</strong></h2>

<p>After being alerted by the player, the ACU officials raised a red flag against the former Kenyan player by informing the associate teams about him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the players are mandated to report any corrupt approach during a tournament or a bilateral series. Failure to do so is an offence under ICC's strict anti-corruption code.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The maximum possible sanction for the most serious breaches of the Anti-Corruption Code is a LIFE BAN from all involvement in the game. In some countries, there is also the possibility of criminal sanctions," read ICC's guidelines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the offences under the Anti-Corruption Code relate to the following:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Match fixing / spot fixing&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Betting on cricket</li>
	<li>Misuse of inside information</li>
	<li>Failing to report an ‘approach’ or corrupt conduct to the ICC ACU</li>
	<li>Failing to cooperate with, or obstructing an investigation or proceedings.</li>
</ul>

<p>Last year, Sri Lanka's&nbsp;Sachithra Senanayake became the first player to be&nbsp;investigated for match-fixing under a new anti-corruption law.</p>

<p>Under a new 2019 sports law which recognises match-fixing as a criminal offence, if a&nbsp;player is found guilty, he or she can be convicted&nbsp;for&nbsp;a maximum jail term of 10 years, a fine not surpassing 100 million rupees ($317,000), or both.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A former Kenyan international approached a Ugandan player at the ongoing T20 World Cup for match-fixing, a PTI news agency report has claimed. The incident took place during the league phase of the tournament which culminated on Monday (Jun 17).

A former Kenyan international approached a Ugandan player at the ongoing T20 World Cup for match-fixing, a PTI news agency report has claimed. The incident took place during the league phase of the tournament which culminated on Monday (Jun 17). The alleged match-fixer approached the Ugandan player multiple times from different numbers. However, the unnamed player reported the approach to Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) officials, following ICC's strict anti-corruption protocol. "It is not a surprise that this person targeted a player from the Ugandan national team. Associate nations, as compared to the big teams, are soft targets for corruption but in this case the player who was approached did the needful by informing the ICC at the earliest," a source was quoted as saying by the news wire agency. "Players are approached all the time, more so from smaller nations. In bigger events like the T20 World Cup, there is more scrutiny and if an approach is conveyed to the ICC ACU, then due protocol is followed and a proper investigation is conducted." Also read | I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do: Ishant recalls being investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami Red flag raised After being alerted by the player, the ACU officials raised a red flag against the former Kenyan player by informing the associate teams about him. Notably, the players are mandated to report any corrupt approach during a tournament or a bilateral series. Failure to do so is an offence under ICC's strict anti-corruption code. "The maximum possible sanction for the most serious breaches of the Anti-Corruption Code is a LIFE BAN from all involvement in the game. In some countries, there is also the possibility of criminal sanctions," read ICC's guidelines. Notably, the offences under the Anti-Corruption Code relate to the following: Match fixing / spot fixing Betting on cricket Misuse of inside information Failing to report an ‘approach’ or corrupt conduct to the ICC ACU Failing to cooperate with, or obstructing an investigation or proceedings. Last year, Sri Lanka's Sachithra Senanayake became the first player to be investigated for match-fixing under a new anti-corruption law. Under a new 2019 sports law which recognises match-fixing as a criminal offence, if a player is found guilty, he or she can be convicted for a maximum jail term of 10 years, a fine not surpassing 100 million rupees ($317,000), or both. (With inputs from agencies)

Match-fixing at T20 World Cup 2024? Associate nation player approached by former Kenyan international

<p>Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded India's unbeaten run in the group stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup, being held in West Indies and the USA. Ahead of the Super 8s, where India play Afghanistan in Barbados on Thursday (June 20), Harbhajan opined that there are a lot of positives for India after the end of the group stage and also tried to reason out why Sanju Samson hasn't been given a chance so far. Samson was being preferred over Rishabh Pant in the playing XI by many former cricketers before the T20 WC due to his IPL 2024 heroics. While Pant also had a good run in this year's IPL, many pitted Samson over Pant due to his effortless striking.</p>

<p>However, Bhajji explained why Samson has not been preferred in the India XI. Harbhajan began by lauding Hardik Pandya's bowling effort as the all-rounder has claimed seven scalps in three games (most by an Indian so far).&nbsp;"The biggest positive is that Hardik Pandya took the wicket. He was the fourth bowler in this tournament. But if you look at his wicket tally, he has done much better than what was expected of him," the veteran told&nbsp;<i>Star Sports</i>.</p>

<p>He then shifted his focus on Samson's ouster and&nbsp;added, "Along with him, Rishabh Pant played at number 3. His role was completely changed. Before this World Cup, we were saying that Sanju Samson will play in the team because he has made big runs. To make Rishabh Pant play at number three is a big positive. Left-Right combination is formed when Rishabh Pant plays at number three."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-kuldeep-provides-flair-fleming-calls-for-spinners-inclusion-ahead-of-ind-vs-afg-super-8-tie-732848">T20 WC: 'Kuldeep provides flair': Fleming calls for spinner's inclusion ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 tie</a></strong></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma-led India will opt for Samson or not, at the expense of underperfoming Shivam Dube.</p>

<p>The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain has featured in 25 T20Is, scoring 374 runs at a strike-rate of&nbsp;133.09.</p>

<h2><strong>INDIA's SUPER 8 FIXTURES</strong></h2>

<p><strong>20 June:</strong>&nbsp;Afghanistan v India, Bridgetown, Barbados (8 PM IST)</p>

<p><strong>22 June</strong>: India v Bangladesh, North Sound, Antigua (8 PM IST)</p>

<p><strong>24 June:</strong>&nbsp;Australia v India, Gros Islet, St Lucia (8 PM IST)</p>


Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded India's unbeaten run in the group stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup, being held in West Indies and the USA. Ahead of the Super 8s, where India play Afghanistan in Barbados on Thursday (June 20), Harbhajan opined that there are a lot of positives for India after the end of the group stage and also tried to reason out why Sanju Samson hasn't been given a chance so far.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded India's unbeaten run in the group stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup, being held in West Indies and the USA. Ahead of the Super 8s, where India play Afghanistan in Barbados on Thursday (June 20), Harbhajan opined that there are a lot of positives for India after the end of the group stage and also tried to reason out why Sanju Samson hasn't been given a chance so far. Samson was being preferred over Rishabh Pant in the playing XI by many former cricketers before the T20 WC due to his IPL 2024 heroics. While Pant also had a good run in this year's IPL, many pitted Samson over Pant due to his effortless striking. However, Bhajji explained why Samson has not been preferred in the India XI. Harbhajan began by lauding Hardik Pandya's bowling effort as the all-rounder has claimed seven scalps in three games (most by an Indian so far). "The biggest positive is that Hardik Pandya took the wicket. He was the fourth bowler in this tournament. But if you look at his wicket tally, he has done much better than what was expected of him," the veteran told Star Sports. He then shifted his focus on Samson's ouster and added, "Along with him, Rishabh Pant played at number 3. His role was completely changed. Before this World Cup, we were saying that Sanju Samson will play in the team because he has made big runs. To make Rishabh Pant play at number three is a big positive. Left-Right combination is formed when Rishabh Pant plays at number three." Also read: T20 WC: 'Kuldeep provides flair': Fleming calls for spinner's inclusion ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 tie It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma-led India will opt for Samson or not, at the expense of underperfoming Shivam Dube. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain has featured in 25 T20Is, scoring 374 runs at a strike-rate of 133.09. INDIA's SUPER 8 FIXTURES 20 June: Afghanistan v India, Bridgetown, Barbados (8 PM IST) 22 June: India v Bangladesh, North Sound, Antigua (8 PM IST) 24 June: Australia v India, Gros Islet, St Lucia (8 PM IST)

T20 WC: Rishabh Pant at No. 3 led to Sanju Samson's ouster from India's playing XI, opines Harbhajan

<p>Pakistan cricket is once again facing tumultuous times after an early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup. Pakistan's newly appointed coach Gary Kirsten also said that there's no unity in the team and hence a poor display of play in the tournament.</p>

<p>Reacting to the reports of comments by the head coach, former Pakistan president Arif Alvi had a rather unique take but all with good intention.</p>

<p>“For us in Pakistan there is an easy solution to this serious allegation. This is an attack on the solidarity &amp; integrity of Pakistan. We have information from credible sources (cipher) that cannot be revealed that he is working under the direct influence of foreign interests against our ideology. The patron of the PCB has ordered immediate action that includes registration of FIRs in all the cricket playing centers of Pakistan and his name is put on the ECL,” Alvi wrote on social medial platform X with tongue in cheek.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-mlc-stars-saurabh-netravalkar-ali-khanaim-to-continue-usas-historic-run-732859">T20 World Cup 2024: MLC stars Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan aim to continue USA's historic run</a></p>

<p>“For Gary! Dont worry the above is just a pun. Do your best to salvage our beleaguered cricket team,” he added.</p>

<p>There's been a furore in Pakistan cricket over the team's below par performance. Earlier in the year, there were several changes made to the team structure and management after Pakistan failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final.</p>

<p>The last few months have been nothing short of a drama in Pakistan cricket where Babar Azam was first stripped of captaincy before being given back in white-ball format ahead of the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>This musical chairs of sorts for captaincy between Babar, ace pacer Shaheen Afridi and wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan has left coach Kirsten furious.</p>

<p>Reacting to his team's early exit after loss against USA and India in the league stage, Babar said after last league stage match against Ireland: "I think we have not been able to play well as a team. We have to settle down and accept that we didn’t play well as a team.”</p>


Pakistan cricket is once again facing tumultuous times after an early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup. Pakistan's newly appointed coach Gary Kirsten also said that there's no unity in the team and hence a poor display of play in the tournament.

Pakistan cricket is once again facing tumultuous times after an early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup. Pakistan's newly appointed coach Gary Kirsten also said that there's no unity in the team and hence a poor display of play in the tournament. Reacting to the reports of comments by the head coach, former Pakistan president Arif Alvi had a rather unique take but all with good intention. “For us in Pakistan there is an easy solution to this serious allegation. This is an attack on the solidarity & integrity of Pakistan. We have information from credible sources (cipher) that cannot be revealed that he is working under the direct influence of foreign interests against our ideology. The patron of the PCB has ordered immediate action that includes registration of FIRs in all the cricket playing centers of Pakistan and his name is put on the ECL,” Alvi wrote on social medial platform X with tongue in cheek. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: MLC stars Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan aim to continue USA's historic run “For Gary! Dont worry the above is just a pun. Do your best to salvage our beleaguered cricket team,” he added. There's been a furore in Pakistan cricket over the team's below par performance. Earlier in the year, there were several changes made to the team structure and management after Pakistan failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final. The last few months have been nothing short of a drama in Pakistan cricket where Babar Azam was first stripped of captaincy before being given back in white-ball format ahead of the T20 World Cup. This musical chairs of sorts for captaincy between Babar, ace pacer Shaheen Afridi and wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan has left coach Kirsten furious. Reacting to his team's early exit after loss against USA and India in the league stage, Babar said after last league stage match against Ireland: "I think we have not been able to play well as a team. We have to settle down and accept that we didn’t play well as a team.”

T20 World Cup 2024: 'Influence of foreign interest...,' Ex-Pak president on coach Kirsten's outrage over team

<p>Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has backed Gautam Gambhir to become India's next head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name the next Indian coach, with Rahul Dravid's tenure set to end post the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Tuesday (June 19), Gambhir was interviewed by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) and is being considered as the ideal candidate to take over from Dravid. Amid all this, Kamran -- who had a verbal spat with Gambhir during their playing days -- lauded the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor and feels 'whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold'.</p>

<p>Talking to the Times of Indoa, Kamran said, "Whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold. The team he joins becomes successful. Team India doesn't need any foreign coaches. They have plenty of options and talent. After Dravid, no one can be the best and bigger than Gautam Gambhir. He was a big player and will become a great coach too. He is the best option India have right now."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Gambhir was with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and they did really well under him. He became a mentor of KKR and they became champions. He is an amazing planner and has a brilliant cricketing mind. I have played a lot of cricket with him. We have been together for a long time. We played, had food and had chats together. We are still good friends. We are still in touch. He should be the head coach and India can go for Ashish Nehra or Zaheer Khan as bowling coach."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-dont-need-personal-comments-former-indian-opener-on-pakistani-fan-abusing-haris-rauf-733163">'We don't need personal comments': Former Indian opener on Pakistani fan abusing Haris Rauf</a></strong></p>

<p>Kamran also heaped praise on current coach Dravid.</p>

<p>The former Pakistani stumper feels Dravid has 'given a lot to Indian cricket' with varied roles.</p>

<p>He added, "Rahul Dravid has given a lot to Indian cricket. Not just with his batting, he has given a lot to Indian cricket as a coach as well. He has been working with a different model with Team India. He is one of the greats. Just look at his graph. He is someone who believes in making the roots and foundation so strong. Team India are dominating at the moment but behind the scene credit goes to Rahul Dravid."</p>

<p>Under Dravid, India reached the 2022 T20 WC semifinals, ended as runners-up in the WTC 2023 and 2023 ODI WC.&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has backed Gautam Gambhir to become India's next head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name the next Indian coach, with Rahul Dravid's tenure set to end post the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has backed Gautam Gambhir to become India's next head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name the next Indian coach, with Rahul Dravid's tenure set to end post the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Tuesday (June 19), Gambhir was interviewed by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) and is being considered as the ideal candidate to take over from Dravid. Amid all this, Kamran -- who had a verbal spat with Gambhir during their playing days -- lauded the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor and feels 'whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold'. Talking to the Times of Indoa, Kamran said, "Whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold. The team he joins becomes successful. Team India doesn't need any foreign coaches. They have plenty of options and talent. After Dravid, no one can be the best and bigger than Gautam Gambhir. He was a big player and will become a great coach too. He is the best option India have right now." He further opined, "Gambhir was with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and they did really well under him. He became a mentor of KKR and they became champions. He is an amazing planner and has a brilliant cricketing mind. I have played a lot of cricket with him. We have been together for a long time. We played, had food and had chats together. We are still good friends. We are still in touch. He should be the head coach and India can go for Ashish Nehra or Zaheer Khan as bowling coach." Also read: 'We don't need personal comments': Former Indian opener on Pakistani fan abusing Haris Rauf Kamran also heaped praise on current coach Dravid. The former Pakistani stumper feels Dravid has 'given a lot to Indian cricket' with varied roles. He added, "Rahul Dravid has given a lot to Indian cricket. Not just with his batting, he has given a lot to Indian cricket as a coach as well. He has been working with a different model with Team India. He is one of the greats. Just look at his graph. He is someone who believes in making the roots and foundation so strong. Team India are dominating at the moment but behind the scene credit goes to Rahul Dravid." Under Dravid, India reached the 2022 T20 WC semifinals, ended as runners-up in the WTC 2023 and 2023 ODI WC.

'Whatever he touches...' - Kamran Akmal on prospects of Gautam Gambhir becoming India's next coach

<p>Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has revealed that he received texts from England players before their last league stage match against Scotland in ongoing T20 World Cup. It is to be noted that England needed arch-rivals Australia to beat Scotland and a win over Namibia in their own match to qualify for the knockout stage.</p>

<p>A comment by Aussie pacer Josh Hazlewood before the match where he suggested that keeping England out of tournament would be in their best interest sparked 'spirit of game' debate. Australia's Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, however, maintained that a comment made in jest was taken out of context.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/here-are-the-three-questions-gautam-gambhir-was-asked-during-india-head-coach-interview-733185">Here are the three questions Gautam Gambhir was asked during India head coach interview</a></p>

<p>England player, nonetheless, thought it was best to check with Aussies instead of waiting given the history between two teams.</p>

<p>"Yeah, just a couple of texts here and there. It was actually quite funny. There was a lot of chat out in the ground like 'Are we doing this? Are we seriously going to let England back in?" said Maxwell on ESPN's 'Around the Wicket' podcast.</p>

<p>Australia eventually won the game with five wickets and two balls to spare in chase of 181.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was almost this interesting part where they dropped Tim David's catch when there was 3 required off 3. When it gets down to the last 2-3 balls, who knows what's going to happen? Luckily enough, we got over the line and luckily enough, they got through. But I heard it was absolutely chaos. They were in the hotel and there was a fair bit of panic. Guys booking flights and cancelling etc. Would have been fun being a fly on the wall watching that," he added.</p>

<p>England, on the other hand, won their match against Namibia despite the rain interruption and kept their title defence campaign on track. England are in Group 2 of Super Eight stage with South Africa, USA and West Indies.</p>


Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has revealed that he received texts from England players before their last league stage match against Scotland in ongoing T20 World Cup.

Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has revealed that he received texts from England players before their last league stage match against Scotland in ongoing T20 World Cup. It is to be noted that England needed arch-rivals Australia to beat Scotland and a win over Namibia in their own match to qualify for the knockout stage. A comment by Aussie pacer Josh Hazlewood before the match where he suggested that keeping England out of tournament would be in their best interest sparked 'spirit of game' debate. Australia's Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, however, maintained that a comment made in jest was taken out of context. Also Read: Here are the three questions Gautam Gambhir was asked during India head coach interview England player, nonetheless, thought it was best to check with Aussies instead of waiting given the history between two teams. "Yeah, just a couple of texts here and there. It was actually quite funny. There was a lot of chat out in the ground like 'Are we doing this? Are we seriously going to let England back in?" said Maxwell on ESPN's 'Around the Wicket' podcast. Australia eventually won the game with five wickets and two balls to spare in chase of 181. "There was almost this interesting part where they dropped Tim David's catch when there was 3 required off 3. When it gets down to the last 2-3 balls, who knows what's going to happen? Luckily enough, we got over the line and luckily enough, they got through. But I heard it was absolutely chaos. They were in the hotel and there was a fair bit of panic. Guys booking flights and cancelling etc. Would have been fun being a fly on the wall watching that," he added. England, on the other hand, won their match against Namibia despite the rain interruption and kept their title defence campaign on track. England are in Group 2 of Super Eight stage with South Africa, USA and West Indies.

T20 World Cup 2024: Aussie Glenn Maxwell reveals getting texts from England players ahead of Scotland game

<p>Gautam Gambhir appeared before the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjape, and Sulakshana Naik in a virtual interview for the post of Indian men's cricket team head coach on Tuesday (Jun 18). Alongside Gambhir, former India opener and women's team coach WV Raman was also interviewed for the position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both candidates were asked three questions during the interview, related to their plans and the&nbsp;dilemmas that the Indian team may face in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The three questions posted to the candidates, according to a report in <em>Revsportz</em> were:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>What are your ideas regarding the coaching staff of the team?<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>With a few aging players in both the batting and bowling departments, how will you handle the transition phase?<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>What are your views on split captaincy, fitness parameters concerning workload management, and addressing the team’s failure to win ICC trophies?</li>
</ul>

<p>Another round of interview is scheduled on Wednesday (Jun 19) before the head coach announcement is made later in the week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Post the T20 World Cup, the Indian team management will have to take a tough call&nbsp;on the future of certain players that are on the wrong side of their thirties.</p>

<p>It is the same dilemma that MS Dhoni faced when he first took over captaincy after the 2007 World Cup debacle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, India preferred to go with the youngsters and reaped instant rewards for it. Gambhir, known for backing young talents is expected to be ruthless when given the charge during the transition period, per&nbsp;reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/narendra-modi-ms-dhoni-amit-shah-fake-applicants-use-famous-names-for-india-head-coach-job-726329"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Narendra Modi, MS Dhoni, Amit Shah: Fake applicants use famous names for India head coach job</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>New coach announcement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Gambhir is leading the race to replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach.&nbsp;The former Indian opener's name gained prominence after he guided KKR to a third Indian Premier League (IPL) title last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I would love to coach the Indian team. There’s no bigger honour than coaching your national team,"&nbsp;said Gambhir when quizzed about the prospective job.</p>

<p>"You are representing 140 crore Indians and more across the globe as well and when you represent India, how can it get bigger than that?”</p>

<p>Apart from Gambhir, BCCI is keen to bring former South African cricketer, Jonty Rhodes, on board as the fielding coach to replace T Dilip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Gambhir and Rhodes have worked together previously at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).</p>

<p>The duo managed to take the new franchise to IPL playoffs in two consecutive seasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gautam Gambhir appeared before the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjape, and Sulakshana Naik in a virtual interview for the post of Indian men's cricket team head coach on Tuesday (Jun 18).

Gautam Gambhir appeared before the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjape, and Sulakshana Naik in a virtual interview for the post of Indian men's cricket team head coach on Tuesday (Jun 18). Alongside Gambhir, former India opener and women's team coach WV Raman was also interviewed for the position. Both candidates were asked three questions during the interview, related to their plans and the dilemmas that the Indian team may face in the future. The three questions posted to the candidates, according to a report in Revsportz were: What are your ideas regarding the coaching staff of the team? With a few aging players in both the batting and bowling departments, how will you handle the transition phase? What are your views on split captaincy, fitness parameters concerning workload management, and addressing the team’s failure to win ICC trophies? Another round of interview is scheduled on Wednesday (Jun 19) before the head coach announcement is made later in the week. Post the T20 World Cup, the Indian team management will have to take a tough call on the future of certain players that are on the wrong side of their thirties. It is the same dilemma that MS Dhoni faced when he first took over captaincy after the 2007 World Cup debacle. At the time, India preferred to go with the youngsters and reaped instant rewards for it. Gambhir, known for backing young talents is expected to be ruthless when given the charge during the transition period, per reports. Also read | Narendra Modi, MS Dhoni, Amit Shah: Fake applicants use famous names for India head coach job New coach announcement Gambhir is leading the race to replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach. The former Indian opener's name gained prominence after he guided KKR to a third Indian Premier League (IPL) title last month. “I would love to coach the Indian team. There’s no bigger honour than coaching your national team," said Gambhir when quizzed about the prospective job. "You are representing 140 crore Indians and more across the globe as well and when you represent India, how can it get bigger than that?” Apart from Gambhir, BCCI is keen to bring former South African cricketer, Jonty Rhodes, on board as the fielding coach to replace T Dilip. Both Gambhir and Rhodes have worked together previously at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The duo managed to take the new franchise to IPL playoffs in two consecutive seasons. (With inputs from agencies)

Here are the three questions Gautam Gambhir was asked during India head coach interview

<p>Mark Nicholas, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) president, has confirmed that five Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises have shown 'soft' interest in buying a stake in The Hundred. The interest shown is to buy a share in Lord's team based out of London.</p>

<p>The Hundred is a novel franchise-based competition in England where each side plays 100 balls in an innings.</p>

<p>The move comes after England Cricket Board's (ECB) bid to privatise competition up to certain extent. Under the proposed model, all eight host cities including London-based MCC will be given 51% stake in the franchise while ECB selling remaining 49% to investors.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/muhammad-rizwans-india-comment-triggers-controversy-as-fans-slam-pakistani-cricketer-733131">Muhammad Rizwan's 'India' comment triggers controversy as fans slam Pakistani cricketer</a></p>

<p>Nicolas echoed the same views and said that the Hundred gives English cricket an opportunity what onset of T20 had given them back in 2003. England's maiden T20 tournament in 2003 fell flat and IPL, launched by BCCI in 2008, took over the franchise cricket after that.</p>

<p>"We missed out on T20 in 2003 where we could have grabbed it," Nicholas said. "India thought quicker than us and were smarter than us, as India often is. India moves at an extraordinary pace to make things work.</p>

<p>"So the Hundred has given us another opportunity. The [MCC] membership quite likes being part of the chat, not being consigned to a piece of history. The members I talk to really love the idea of having a team, love the opportunity that it brings. There will be financial opportunity, either in growth of the equity or in sale of the equity," he added.</p>

<p>This would not be the first time also that IPL looks to expand its footprint beyond India. Some franchise namely Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings have teams in other league as well.</p>

<p>The major leagues where IPL teams have ownership stake in different franchise are USA based Major League Cricket (MLC), South Africa's SA20 and West Indies' Caribbean Premier League (CPL).</p>


Mark Nicholas, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) president, has confirmed that five Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises have shown 'soft' interest in buying a stake in The Hundred.

Mark Nicholas, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) president, has confirmed that five Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises have shown 'soft' interest in buying a stake in The Hundred. The interest shown is to buy a share in Lord's team based out of London. The Hundred is a novel franchise-based competition in England where each side plays 100 balls in an innings. The move comes after England Cricket Board's (ECB) bid to privatise competition up to certain extent. Under the proposed model, all eight host cities including London-based MCC will be given 51% stake in the franchise while ECB selling remaining 49% to investors. Also Read: Muhammad Rizwan's 'India' comment triggers controversy as fans slam Pakistani cricketer Nicolas echoed the same views and said that the Hundred gives English cricket an opportunity what onset of T20 had given them back in 2003. England's maiden T20 tournament in 2003 fell flat and IPL, launched by BCCI in 2008, took over the franchise cricket after that. "We missed out on T20 in 2003 where we could have grabbed it," Nicholas said. "India thought quicker than us and were smarter than us, as India often is. India moves at an extraordinary pace to make things work. "So the Hundred has given us another opportunity. The [MCC] membership quite likes being part of the chat, not being consigned to a piece of history. The members I talk to really love the idea of having a team, love the opportunity that it brings. There will be financial opportunity, either in growth of the equity or in sale of the equity," he added. This would not be the first time also that IPL looks to expand its footprint beyond India. Some franchise namely Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings have teams in other league as well. The major leagues where IPL teams have ownership stake in different franchise are USA based Major League Cricket (MLC), South Africa's SA20 and West Indies' Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

IPL team in England's The Hundred? MCC president Mark Nicholas confirms 'soft interest'

Pope Francis issued a decree on Saturday aimed at boosting transparency over Vatican finances, which have been under scrutiny since leaks of secret documents revealed serious irregularities that may have masked corruption.<br />
<br />
The move follows months of tension between the body charged with managing the Holy See&#39;s assets and the Vatican&#39;s powerful economy ministry.<br />
<br />
The Argentine pontiff&#39;s &quot;motu proprio&quot; reverses a 2014 bill which had transferred the competencies of the authority in charge of the Vatican&#39;s real estate,known as ASPA, to the Secretariat for the Economy, headed by finance czar Cardinal George Pell.<br />
<br />
It essentially left Pell&#39;s department both in charge of managing the assets and keeping watch over asset management.<br />
<br />
&quot;It is of the utmost importance that bodies responsible for vigilance are separated from those that are being overseen,&quot; Francis said in the new document published by the Vatican.<br />
<br />
The decree stresses that the Catholic Church&#39;s &quot;earthly assets&quot; are &quot;intended for divine worship, the honest maintenance of the clergy, the apostolate and works of charity, especially in service of the poor&quot;.<br />
<br />
It emphasises &quot;the need to pay the utmost attention to ensuring the administration of economic resources always serves these ends&quot;.<br />
<br />
It comes two days after a prelate and PR expert were found guilty of playing a role in leaking documents which revealed gross financial mismanagement within the Vatican bureaucracy that Francis inherited three years ago.<br />
<br />
Among the most striking revelations was that fewer than 20 per cent of donations made by believers around the world under the Peter&#39;s Pence scheme ended up being spent on good works.<br />
<br />
The rest was swallowed up by the Vatican bureaucracy, reportedly helping to subsidise the luxurious lifestyles of certain cardinals.<br />
<br />
Vatican expert Andrea Tornielli, writing in La Stampa&#39;s Vatican Insider supplement, said Francis had made a significant addition to the 2014 statute by including in his motu proprio the phrase &quot;on the basis of the criteria established by the Superior Authority&quot;.<br />
<br />
&quot;These words... reiterate the pope&#39;s role in assessing the transactions of greatest importance&quot;, limiting the reach of both Pell and Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, who is charge of APSA (the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See), Tornielli said.<br />
<br />
&quot;Francis trusts in the &#39;mutual collaboration of superiors of the two dicasteries (Vatican departments) concerned,&#39; in other words Pell and Calcagno,&quot; Tornielli said, describing the pontiff&#39;s reference to collaboration as &quot;significant.&quot;<br />
<br />
(AFP)

Pope Francis issued a decree on Saturday aimed at boosting transparency over Vatican finances, which have been under scrutiny since leaks of secret documents revealed serious irregularities that may have masked corruption.

Pope Francis issued a decree on Saturday aimed at boosting transparency over Vatican finances, which have been under scrutiny since leaks of secret documents revealed serious irregularities that may have masked corruption. The move follows months of tension between the body charged with managing the Holy See's assets and the Vatican's powerful economy ministry. The Argentine pontiff's "motu proprio" reverses a 2014 bill which had transferred the competencies of the authority in charge of the Vatican's real estate,known as ASPA, to the Secretariat for the Economy, headed by finance czar Cardinal George Pell. It essentially left Pell's department both in charge of managing the assets and keeping watch over asset management. "It is of the utmost importance that bodies responsible for vigilance are separated from those that are being overseen," Francis said in the new document published by the Vatican. The decree stresses that the Catholic Church's "earthly assets" are "intended for divine worship, the honest maintenance of the clergy, the apostolate and works of charity, especially in service of the poor". It emphasises "the need to pay the utmost attention to ensuring the administration of economic resources always serves these ends". It comes two days after a prelate and PR expert were found guilty of playing a role in leaking documents which revealed gross financial mismanagement within the Vatican bureaucracy that Francis inherited three years ago. Among the most striking revelations was that fewer than 20 per cent of donations made by believers around the world under the Peter's Pence scheme ended up being spent on good works. The rest was swallowed up by the Vatican bureaucracy, reportedly helping to subsidise the luxurious lifestyles of certain cardinals. Vatican expert Andrea Tornielli, writing in La Stampa's Vatican Insider supplement, said Francis had made a significant addition to the 2014 statute by including in his motu proprio the phrase "on the basis of the criteria established by the Superior Authority". "These words... reiterate the pope's role in assessing the transactions of greatest importance", limiting the reach of both Pell and Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, who is charge of APSA (the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See), Tornielli said. "Francis trusts in the 'mutual collaboration of superiors of the two dicasteries (Vatican departments) concerned,' in other words Pell and Calcagno," Tornielli said, describing the pontiff's reference to collaboration as "significant." (AFP)

Pakistan’s elimination from T20 World Cup a reminder how all-rounders like Shahid Afridi are missed

<p>On Tuesday (June 19), a video went viral where Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf was abused by a fan. At first, Rauf thought the fan was an Indian, however, he claimed to be a Pakistani. Rauf lost his cool at the abusive words thrown at him by the fan, who was upset with Pakistan's early exit from the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA. The video of the incident went viral as the speedster was also seen charging at the fan for making personal comments,&nbsp;before being&nbsp;stopped by others and his wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many cricketers have reacted to Rauf's altercation with the fan. Now, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra also joined the bandwagon.</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "I have seen the clip. I am not sure how much edited or how true it is. I will only say that a player tries to give his best and even if he is unable to do well, whether it's Haris Rauf or Virat Kohli or Steve Smith, we don't need personal comments. Don't target their family."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/apologise-or-face-action-pakistan-cricket-board-threatens-fan-involved-in-altercation-with-haris-rauf-732935">'Apologise or face action': Pakistan Cricket Board threatens fan involved in altercation with Haris Rauf</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "It's expected that you will be well-mannered enough that you won't do it in front of the player. You did it digitally as well, that's also not good. I request you with folded hands that everyone's families should be spared. If you are heartbroken because you have invested in the team or the player, you can criticize but use the language that you can use with your family."</p>

<h2><strong>'I WILL NOT HESITATE TO RESPOND ACCORDINGLY'</strong></h2>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/KuUSZWoDaq">pic.twitter.com/KuUSZWoDaq</a></p>
— Haris Rauf (@HarisRauf14) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarisRauf14/status/1803025969902424204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>After his altercation made heads turn, Rauf also took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote, "I decided to not bring this on social media, but now that the video is out, I feel it is necessary to address the situation."</p>

<p>He added, "As public figures, we are open to receiving all kinds of feedback from the public. They are entitled to support or criticize us. Nevertheless, when it comes to my parent and my family, I will not hesitate to respond accordingly. “It is important to show respect towards people and their families, irrespective of their professions."</p>

<p>Rauf claimed seven wickets in four games in what was a forgettable T20 WC campaign for Babar Azam-led Pakistan. They bowed out with wins over Canada and Ireland, after having lost to USA and India.&nbsp;</p>


On Tuesday (June 19), a video went viral where Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf was abused by a fan. At first, Rauf thought the fan was an Indian, however, he claimed to be a Pakistani.

On Tuesday (June 19), a video went viral where Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf was abused by a fan. At first, Rauf thought the fan was an Indian, however, he claimed to be a Pakistani. Rauf lost his cool at the abusive words thrown at him by the fan, who was upset with Pakistan's early exit from the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA. The video of the incident went viral as the speedster was also seen charging at the fan for making personal comments, before being stopped by others and his wife. Many cricketers have reacted to Rauf's altercation with the fan. Now, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra also joined the bandwagon. On his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "I have seen the clip. I am not sure how much edited or how true it is. I will only say that a player tries to give his best and even if he is unable to do well, whether it's Haris Rauf or Virat Kohli or Steve Smith, we don't need personal comments. Don't target their family." Also read: 'Apologise or face action': Pakistan Cricket Board threatens fan involved in altercation with Haris Rauf He added, "It's expected that you will be well-mannered enough that you won't do it in front of the player. You did it digitally as well, that's also not good. I request you with folded hands that everyone's families should be spared. If you are heartbroken because you have invested in the team or the player, you can criticize but use the language that you can use with your family." 'I WILL NOT HESITATE TO RESPOND ACCORDINGLY' pic.twitter.com/KuUSZWoDaq — Haris Rauf (@HarisRauf14) June 18, 2024 × After his altercation made heads turn, Rauf also took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote, "I decided to not bring this on social media, but now that the video is out, I feel it is necessary to address the situation." He added, "As public figures, we are open to receiving all kinds of feedback from the public. They are entitled to support or criticize us. Nevertheless, when it comes to my parent and my family, I will not hesitate to respond accordingly. “It is important to show respect towards people and their families, irrespective of their professions." Rauf claimed seven wickets in four games in what was a forgettable T20 WC campaign for Babar Azam-led Pakistan. They bowed out with wins over Canada and Ireland, after having lost to USA and India.

'We don't need personal comments': Former Indian opener on Pakistani fan abusing Haris Rauf

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">The World Championship of Legends (WCL) is set to become a major event in the world of cricket. This unique league features both retired and non-contracted players, making it a standout in the cricketing landscape. Approved by the England &amp; Wales Cricket Board (ECB), WCL holds the distinction of being the only league of its kind to receive such recognition. Scheduled to take place from 3rd July to 13th July, WCL will be hosted at the prestigious Edgbaston and Northamptonshire County Cricket Club grounds in the UK. </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">The unique selling point about the league is that it features a franchise model on the country name igniting the sense of nationalism, promising a rich mix of international talent and fierce competition. Among the highlights is the highly anticipated India champions vs Pakistan champions match, which is expected to draw significant attention and excitement from cricket fans worldwide. The approval from the ECB underscores WCL's commitment to high standards and quality, setting it apart from other cricket events. </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Right mixture of Bollywood as well, as&nbsp;Ajay Devgn is the equity partner in the league while Bollywood Diva Jacqueline Fernandez has bought England Champions along with Meteora Developers.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">WCL boasts the biggest pool of players from around the world, featuring some of the most renowned names in cricket. </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">This includes:</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"><strong>West Indies champions: </strong>Chris Gayle, Samuel Badree and Dwayne Smith</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"><strong>South Africa champions: </strong>Jacques Kallis, JP Duminy, Herschele Gibbs, Imran Tahir England champions: Kevin Pietersen, Ian Bell, Owais Shah and Samit Patel</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"><strong>Australia champions: </strong>Brett Lee, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, and Brad Haddin</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"><strong>Pakistan champions:</strong> Shahid Afridi, Misbah ul Haq, Wahab Riaz, and Sarfaraz Ahmed</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"><strong>India champions:</strong> Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina and Irfan Pathan </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Additionally, WCL features a special group of players who have never played in any Legends League before. This includes Daren Sammy from the West Indies, Dale Steyn from South Africa, Ravi Bopara and Samit Patel from England, Ben Cutting and Tim Paine from Australia, Shoaib Malik and Sarfaraz Ahmed from Pakistan and Dhawal Kulkarni, Ambati Rayadufrom India These players, known for their exceptional talent and skills, will make their debut in the Legends League, adding a fresh and exciting element to the competition.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-francisco-conceicaos-stoppage-time-winner-helps-portugal-down-czechs-in-group-opener-733001">Euro 2024: Francisco Conceicao's stoppage time winner helps Portugal down Czechs in group opener</a></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Star Sports</span></span></span></b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"> in India</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Fox Sports</span></span></span></b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"> in Australia </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Super Sports</span></span></span></b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"> in South Africa</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">TNT Sports</span></span></span></b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"> in UK (BT Sports )</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Willow</span></span></span></b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"> In North America</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 8pt"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Aptos,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222">Criclife</span></span></span></b><span style="background:white"><span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;"><span style="color:#222222"> in Middle East.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>


The World Championship of Legends (WCL) is set to become a major event in the world of cricket. This unique league features both retired and non-contracted players, making it a standout in the cricketing landscape.

The World Championship of Legends (WCL) is set to become a major event in the world of cricket. This unique league features both retired and non-contracted players, making it a standout in the cricketing landscape. Approved by the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), WCL holds the distinction of being the only league of its kind to receive such recognition. Scheduled to take place from 3rd July to 13th July, WCL will be hosted at the prestigious Edgbaston and Northamptonshire County Cricket Club grounds in the UK. The unique selling point about the league is that it features a franchise model on the country name igniting the sense of nationalism, promising a rich mix of international talent and fierce competition. Among the highlights is the highly anticipated India champions vs Pakistan champions match, which is expected to draw significant attention and excitement from cricket fans worldwide. The approval from the ECB underscores WCL's commitment to high standards and quality, setting it apart from other cricket events. Right mixture of Bollywood as well, as Ajay Devgn is the equity partner in the league while Bollywood Diva Jacqueline Fernandez has bought England Champions along with Meteora Developers. WCL boasts the biggest pool of players from around the world, featuring some of the most renowned names in cricket. This includes: West Indies champions: Chris Gayle, Samuel Badree and Dwayne Smith South Africa champions: Jacques Kallis, JP Duminy, Herschele Gibbs, Imran Tahir England champions: Kevin Pietersen, Ian Bell, Owais Shah and Samit Patel Australia champions: Brett Lee, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, and Brad Haddin Pakistan champions: Shahid Afridi, Misbah ul Haq, Wahab Riaz, and Sarfaraz Ahmed India champions: Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina and Irfan Pathan Additionally, WCL features a special group of players who have never played in any Legends League before. This includes Daren Sammy from the West Indies, Dale Steyn from South Africa, Ravi Bopara and Samit Patel from England, Ben Cutting and Tim Paine from Australia, Shoaib Malik and Sarfaraz Ahmed from Pakistan and Dhawal Kulkarni, Ambati Rayadufrom India These players, known for their exceptional talent and skills, will make their debut in the Legends League, adding a fresh and exciting element to the competition. ALSO READ | Euro 2024: Francisco Conceicao's stoppage time winner helps Portugal down Czechs in group opener Star Sports in India Fox Sports in Australia Super Sports in South Africa TNT Sports in UK (BT Sports ) Willow In North America Criclife in Middle East.

Is World Championship of Legends the next big thing in Cricket?

<p>Pakistan cricketer Muhammad Rizwan has come under the scanner for a support tweet for teammate Haris Rauf. After a video showing Rauf's altercation with a Pakistani fan went viral on social media, Rizwan posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) to back his colleague, but&nbsp;the situation took a turn for the worse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rizwan's post angered&nbsp;Indian fans, who came out in numbers to criticise the Pakistan star. In the post, Rizwan&nbsp;mentioned that it didn't matter if the fan was from India or Pakistan, even though it was cleared by the fan himself that he was from Pakistan.</p>

<p>"It is irrelevant whether the person who disrespected Haris Rauf was from Pakistan or India. What truly matters is that this individual lacked values and manners," wrote Rizwan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is irrelevant whether the person who disrespected Haris Rauf was from Pakistan or India. What truly matters is that this individual lacked values and manners. No one has the right to disrespect any human being, especially in front of their family members. Such appalling…</p>
— Muhammad Rizwan (@iMRizwanPak) <a href="https://twitter.com/iMRizwanPak/status/1803117598013378795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian fans were quick to school Rizwan who seemingly attempted to make it an India-Pakistan issue and play on the sympathies.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>One fan said,&nbsp;"Absolutely unnecessary to mention 'India' here when that fan himself claimed he's from Pakistan,"&nbsp;while another commented: "Also, when this Pakistani himself claimed that he was from Pakistan, then why are you mentioning India?"</p>

<p>A third added: "Learn to accept the defeat with grace than trying to set narrative against Indians after losing back to back matches against India."</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-pakistan-pacer-haris-rauf-charges-at-fan-he-thought-was-indian-video-goes-viral-732816">Watch: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf charges at fan he thought was 'Indian', VIDEO goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, apart from Rizwan, other Pakistan cricketers such as Hassan Ali, Junaid Khan and Shadab Khan also came in support of Rauf but refrained from mentioning India.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I've seen a video circulating online about Harry <a href="https://twitter.com/HarisRauf14?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarisRauf14</a> and I urge all my dearest cricket fans to remember that criticism can be constructive without being hurtful. Let's keep the debate respectful and considerate of the players’ families. Let's promote love, peace and…</p>
— Hassan Ali 🇵🇰 (@RealHa55an) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealHa55an/status/1803021944247214547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As a cricket lover, you can criticise the performance of players but NO ONE has the right to barge into personal space of players, and abuse their families.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/harisrauf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#harisrauf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/t20inUSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#t20inUSA</a></p>
— Junaid khan (@JunaidkhanREAL) <a href="https://twitter.com/JunaidkhanREAL/status/1803051289766449266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is the right of fans to criticise us for performances. We accept it and try to learn from it. It is not OKAY to attack anyone personally in their family’s presence, unacceptable. How would u feel if someone attacked u personally while with family? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarisRauf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarisRauf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HarisRauf14?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarisRauf14</a></p>
— Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/76Shadabkhan/status/1803055079089471516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi issued a threat to the Pakistani fan and called him to issue an apology to Rauf or prepare to face legal action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated," wrote Naqvi on X.</p>

<p>"Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual responsible," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Rauf could be seen out and about with his wife when the said fan approached him. As the situation escalated, others around came and separated Rauf from the fan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan cricketer Muhammad Rizwan has come under the scanner for a support tweet for teammate Haris Rauf. After a video showing Rauf's altercation with a Pakistani fan went viral on social media, Rizwan posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) to back his colleague, but the situation took a turn for the worse.

Pakistan cricketer Muhammad Rizwan has come under the scanner for a support tweet for teammate Haris Rauf. After a video showing Rauf's altercation with a Pakistani fan went viral on social media, Rizwan posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) to back his colleague, but the situation took a turn for the worse. Rizwan's post angered Indian fans, who came out in numbers to criticise the Pakistan star. In the post, Rizwan mentioned that it didn't matter if the fan was from India or Pakistan, even though it was cleared by the fan himself that he was from Pakistan. "It is irrelevant whether the person who disrespected Haris Rauf was from Pakistan or India. What truly matters is that this individual lacked values and manners," wrote Rizwan. It is irrelevant whether the person who disrespected Haris Rauf was from Pakistan or India. What truly matters is that this individual lacked values and manners. No one has the right to disrespect any human being, especially in front of their family members. Such appalling… — Muhammad Rizwan (@iMRizwanPak) June 18, 2024 × Indian fans were quick to school Rizwan who seemingly attempted to make it an India-Pakistan issue and play on the sympathies. One fan said, "Absolutely unnecessary to mention 'India' here when that fan himself claimed he's from Pakistan," while another commented: "Also, when this Pakistani himself claimed that he was from Pakistan, then why are you mentioning India?" A third added: "Learn to accept the defeat with grace than trying to set narrative against Indians after losing back to back matches against India." Watch: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf charges at fan he thought was 'Indian', VIDEO goes viral Notably, apart from Rizwan, other Pakistan cricketers such as Hassan Ali, Junaid Khan and Shadab Khan also came in support of Rauf but refrained from mentioning India. I've seen a video circulating online about Harry @HarisRauf14 and I urge all my dearest cricket fans to remember that criticism can be constructive without being hurtful. Let's keep the debate respectful and considerate of the players’ families. Let's promote love, peace and… — Hassan Ali 🇵🇰 (@RealHa55an) June 18, 2024 × As a cricket lover, you can criticise the performance of players but NO ONE has the right to barge into personal space of players, and abuse their families.#harisrauf #PakistanCricket #t20inUSA — Junaid khan (@JunaidkhanREAL) June 18, 2024 × It is the right of fans to criticise us for performances. We accept it and try to learn from it. It is not OKAY to attack anyone personally in their family’s presence, unacceptable. How would u feel if someone attacked u personally while with family? #HarisRauf @HarisRauf14 — Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) June 18, 2024 × Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi issued a threat to the Pakistani fan and called him to issue an apology to Rauf or prepare to face legal action. "Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated," wrote Naqvi on X. "Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual responsible," he added. In the video, Rauf could be seen out and about with his wife when the said fan approached him. As the situation escalated, others around came and separated Rauf from the fan. (With inputs from agencies)

Muhammad Rizwan's 'India' comment triggers controversy as fans slam Pakistani cricketer

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