Lasith Malinga's once-express pace has dropped as Father Time has caught up with the right-arm quick, but his guile should propel him to a few individual milestones at his fourth and final <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cricket+World+Cup">Cricket World Cup</a>.

Malinga, who turns 36 in August, is on the cusp of breaking into the all-time top-10 one-day international wicket-takers, with his tally of 322 just one behind former teammate Sanath Jayasuriya.

Muttiah Muralitharan heads the list with 534 wickets.

Malinga has also taken three ODI hat-tricks and is the only player to have achieved the milestone twice during a World Cup.

His first <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/winner-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-to-earn-highest-prize-money-in-history-of-tournament-219380&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDzKKA9r3iAhVM63MBHQXkAvcQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Cn8oNUMXZnNYlgovUFx9V">World Cup</a> hat-trick was when he dismissed four South African batsmen in four balls in Guyana in 2007 -- the only player to have achieved that feat in the tournament.

He then took another hat-trick against Kenya four years later in Colombo and while he said it would be nice to add a third in England and Wales, he was just keen on taking wickets when Sri Lanka start their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1.

"I know I've got the skills to take wickets and (that) gives me confidence," Malinga told the International Cricket Council website.

"One of the things I like about playing in England is you have to adapt to every condition. It could be really hot or quite cold and that is a real test of your skill as a bowler,'' Malinga said.

"Why can't I get another hat-trick? I will be trying and that would be special," he added.

Malinga has already said that his fourth Cricket World Cup will be his last, with him targeting an international retirement after the World Twenty20 tournament in Australia next year.

He will however still anchor the pace attack with his ability to bowl fast swinging yorkers and well-directed bouncer and disguise changes in pace.

The 1996 champions have struggled in the 50-over format this year, having lost eight of their nine completed matches, with their only victory against Scotland in Edinburgh.

Malinga, however, felt the side could surprise opposition teams in the round-robin format.

"In previous years perhaps we had bigger names but these guys are very talented and they are looking forward to proving themselves and making people notice them," he said.

"We have the best 15 players in Sri Lanka right now and we have a mix of more experienced players and some exciting young players, who just can't wait to get started," Malinga added.

Lasith Malinga's once-express pace has dropped as Father Time has caught up with the right-arm quick, but his guile should propel him to a few individual milestones at his fourth and final Cricket World Cup.

Lasith Malinga's once-express pace has dropped as Father Time has caught up with the right-arm quick, but his guile should propel him to a few individual milestones at his fourth and final Cricket World Cup. Malinga, who turns 36 in August, is on the cusp of breaking into the all-time top-10 one-day international wicket-takers, with his tally of 322 just one behind former teammate Sanath Jayasuriya. Muttiah Muralitharan heads the list with 534 wickets. Malinga has also taken three ODI hat-tricks and is the only player to have achieved the milestone twice during a World Cup. His first World Cup hat-trick was when he dismissed four South African batsmen in four balls in Guyana in 2007 -- the only player to have achieved that feat in the tournament. He then took another hat-trick against Kenya four years later in Colombo and while he said it would be nice to add a third in England and Wales, he was just keen on taking wickets when Sri Lanka start their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1. "I know I've got the skills to take wickets and (that) gives me confidence," Malinga told the International Cricket Council website. "One of the things I like about playing in England is you have to adapt to every condition. It could be really hot or quite cold and that is a real test of your skill as a bowler,'' Malinga said. "Why can't I get another hat-trick? I will be trying and that would be special," he added. Malinga has already said that his fourth Cricket World Cup will be his last, with him targeting an international retirement after the World Twenty20 tournament in Australia next year. He will however still anchor the pace attack with his ability to bowl fast swinging yorkers and well-directed bouncer and disguise changes in pace. The 1996 champions have struggled in the 50-over format this year, having lost eight of their nine completed matches, with their only victory against Scotland in Edinburgh. Malinga, however, felt the side could surprise opposition teams in the round-robin format. "In previous years perhaps we had bigger names but these guys are very talented and they are looking forward to proving themselves and making people notice them," he said. "We have the best 15 players in Sri Lanka right now and we have a mix of more experienced players and some exciting young players, who just can't wait to get started," Malinga added.

Milestones beckon for Lasith Malinga in World Cup 2019 swansong

South African pacer Dale Steyn has been ruled out of team's first match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against England on May 30.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old picked up a shoulder injury during his brief stint for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019.&nbsp;

He is&nbsp;yet to recover from the injury and he has been under observation.&nbsp;

"He had been under observation and coach Ottis Gibson confirmed on Tuesday, 28 May, that he won't be fully fit in time for the tournament opener at The Oval on Thursday," stated the official website of World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

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Steyn is expected to be fit for South Africa's clash against India. <a href="https://t.co/evHv5Kj1Oy">https://t.co/evHv5Kj1Oy</a>
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"He is getting closer everyday; we hope that if not by Sunday then by the India game," Gibson told presspersons on the sidelines of the team's training.

South Africa has been dealing with injury woes as Kagiso Rabada's fitness was also a major concern for the team. But the pacer quickly recovered to take part in the team's warm-up matches against Sri Lanka and West Indies.

South Africa defeated Sri Lanka in their first warm-up game by 87 runs whereas their second warm-up fixture against West Indies was abandoned due to rain.&nbsp;

South Africa will take on England in the opening fixture of the World Cup on May 30.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)
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South African pacer Dale Steyn has been ruled out of team's first match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against England on May 30. The 35-year-old picked up a shoulder injury during his brief stint for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019.

South African pacer Dale Steyn has been ruled out of team's first match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against England on May 30. The 35-year-old picked up a shoulder injury during his brief stint for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019. He is yet to recover from the injury and he has been under observation. "He had been under observation and coach Ottis Gibson confirmed on Tuesday, 28 May, that he won't be fully fit in time for the tournament opener at The Oval on Thursday," stated the official website of World Cup 2019. Steyn is expected to be fit for South Africa's clash against India. https://t.co/evHv5Kj1Oy — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) May 28, 2019 × "He is getting closer everyday; we hope that if not by Sunday then by the India game," Gibson told presspersons on the sidelines of the team's training. South Africa has been dealing with injury woes as Kagiso Rabada's fitness was also a major concern for the team. But the pacer quickly recovered to take part in the team's warm-up matches against Sri Lanka and West Indies. South Africa defeated Sri Lanka in their first warm-up game by 87 runs whereas their second warm-up fixture against West Indies was abandoned due to rain. South Africa will take on England in the opening fixture of the World Cup on May 30. (With inputs from agencies)

Dale Steyn ruled out of South Africa's opening World Cup fixture

Before leaving for the Cricket World Cup 2019, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Indian team captain Virat Kohli</a> said that there ain't a&nbsp;bigger motivation that Indian Army after the former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath had motivated the Indian cricketers to play the World Cup this year for the armed forces.&nbsp;

On being asked in this regard, Kohli said, "You get motivation from several sources. There's no bigger motivation than the Indian Army.

"If you want to dedicate it to the army, there can't be anything better," Kohli added.&nbsp;

"If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us. But that also depends on a lot of other factors. Every individual has a different motivation while playing in the World Cup.

"I think if everyone keeps the Indian Army in mind then we will get an extra boost from it," Virat Kohli added.&nbsp;

Indian will play two&nbsp;warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before&nbsp;starting their campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

Recently, during the India-Australia series, the Indian cricket team paid tribute to Indian Army in the third ODI match&nbsp;after the ghastly Pulwama attack that killed over&nbsp;40 CRPF soldiers.&nbsp;

They also decided to contribute their match fees from that game to the National Defence Fund.&nbsp;

Even in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019,&nbsp;BCCI's contributed the entire budget earmarked for the league's opening ceremony to the funds of the Indian armed forces and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

The BCCI has contributed a sum of Rs 20 crore.

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Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.&nbsp;

Before leaving for the Cricket World Cup 2019, Indian team captain Virat Kohli said that there ain't a bigger motivation that Indian Army after the former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath had motivated the Indian cricketers to play the World Cup this year for the armed forces.

Before leaving for the Cricket World Cup 2019, Indian team captain Virat Kohli said that there ain't a bigger motivation that Indian Army after the former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath had motivated the Indian cricketers to play the World Cup this year for the armed forces. On being asked in this regard, Kohli said, "You get motivation from several sources. There's no bigger motivation than the Indian Army. "If you want to dedicate it to the army, there can't be anything better," Kohli added. "If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us. But that also depends on a lot of other factors. Every individual has a different motivation while playing in the World Cup. "I think if everyone keeps the Indian Army in mind then we will get an extra boost from it," Virat Kohli added. Indian will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their campaign against South Africa on June 5. Recently, during the India-Australia series, the Indian cricket team paid tribute to Indian Army in the third ODI match after the ghastly Pulwama attack that killed over 40 CRPF soldiers. They also decided to contribute their match fees from that game to the National Defence Fund. Even in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019, BCCI's contributed the entire budget earmarked for the league's opening ceremony to the funds of the Indian armed forces and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The BCCI has contributed a sum of Rs 20 crore. × Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.

'There's no bigger motivation than Indian Army,' says Virat Kohli ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019

Bangladesh young pacer Mohammad Saifuddin bowled brilliantly to take the wicket of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the warm-up match on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the help of an inch-perfect yorker, Saifuddin dismissed Kohli, who was playing at the score 47.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli failed to judge the yorker and lost his wicket when the ball crashed the leg stump after touching his pad.&nbsp;

After taking Virat's wicket, Saifuddin performed an army-salute-like gesture in celebration.&nbsp;

Earlier, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bowl against India in their second World Cup warm-up match at&nbsp;Cardiff's&nbsp;Sophia Gardens.&nbsp;

Bangladesh will&nbsp;start their campaign against South Africa at the Oval in London on June 2.&nbsp;

While India will also start their tournament&nbsp;against South Africa&nbsp;on June 5.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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Virat Kohli bowled by Young Saif. A big and dream wicket for this young fast bowler from Bangladesh 🇧🇩.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsBAN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/CqTuMJEQQP">pic.twitter.com/CqTuMJEQQP</a>
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Kedar Jadhav is still recovering from the shoulder injury but Vijay Shankar is back in the Indian team.&nbsp;

The six-wicket defeat against New Zealand, however, won't be a big worry for Virat Kohli as he has some bigger issues to take care of.

India's primary objective during the practice games is to fix their middle-order problems but the two protagonists, who are likely to fill in the important Nos 4 and 6 in the tournament proper, have not fully recovered from their respective injuries.

While Kedar injured his left shoulder during the IPL, Shankar was hit in the nets by a Khaleel Ahmed short ball.

Bangladesh young pacer Mohammad Saifuddin bowled brilliantly to take the wicket of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the warm-up match on Tuesday. With the help of an inch-perfect yorker, Saifuddin dismissed Kohli, who was playing at the score 47.

Bangladesh young pacer Mohammad Saifuddin bowled brilliantly to take the wicket of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the warm-up match on Tuesday. With the help of an inch-perfect yorker, Saifuddin dismissed Kohli, who was playing at the score 47. Virat Kohli failed to judge the yorker and lost his wicket when the ball crashed the leg stump after touching his pad. After taking Virat's wicket, Saifuddin performed an army-salute-like gesture in celebration. Earlier, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bowl against India in their second World Cup warm-up match at Cardiff's Sophia Gardens. Bangladesh will start their campaign against South Africa at the Oval in London on June 2. While India will also start their tournament against South Africa on June 5. Watch the video here: Virat Kohli bowled by Young Saif. A big and dream wicket for this young fast bowler from Bangladesh 🇧🇩.#INDvsBAN #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/CqTuMJEQQP — Ahmer Najeeb (@AhmerNajeeb) May 28, 2019 × Kedar Jadhav is still recovering from the shoulder injury but Vijay Shankar is back in the Indian team. The six-wicket defeat against New Zealand, however, won't be a big worry for Virat Kohli as he has some bigger issues to take care of. India's primary objective during the practice games is to fix their middle-order problems but the two protagonists, who are likely to fill in the important Nos 4 and 6 in the tournament proper, have not fully recovered from their respective injuries. While Kedar injured his left shoulder during the IPL, Shankar was hit in the nets by a Khaleel Ahmed short ball.

Watch: Mohammad Saifuddin dismisses Virat Kohli with a stunning yorker in warm-up match

The twelfth edition of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup</a>, which&nbsp;will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is all set to provide a daily dose of entertainment to the cricket enthusiasts across the globe.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli even termed the tournament as the most challenging as high-quality rivals will compete in a Round Robin format.&nbsp;

Ahead of the World Cup, one of the most discussed topics is&nbsp;the tough English conditions and how it will behave during the tournament.&nbsp;

If the conditions are slightly wet&nbsp;then it will pose a challenge for the batsmen and the team with the best seam attack will start with a huge advantage.&nbsp;

On the other hand, if the conditions are dry then it will help the batsmen and the bowling side need to show plenty of variety.&nbsp;

What does the forecast say?

As per the UK weather forecast, the temperature is expected to rise but in the first week, the weather is expected to turn cloudy and wet with outbreaks of heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

"Largely cloudy on Thursday and Friday with outbreaks of rain, mainly in the north and west. Long sunny spells in many sheltered central and southern areas. Increasingly warm and humid," according to the Met Office.&nbsp;

The long-range weather forecast from June 1 to June 10 said, "Next weekend will be much warmer than recently and locally very warm in the south and east where brightest conditions are likely."

"It could be quite warm at times in the southeast where there may be some heavy, thundery showers at times. Confidence in the forecast drops towards the end of next week but there is a possibility of more settled weather generally across the UK," as per the Met Office predictions.&nbsp;

From June 11 to June 25, the forecast suggested, "Whilst confidence is low throughout this period, the most probable trend for the middle two weeks of June is for a relatively settled weather picture across the UK. Whilst this may bring spells of dry and often sunny weather, warmer day time temperatures may occasionally trigger heavy, possibly thundery showers."

"Temperatures will be near normal or warm overall for the time of year," the long-range added.&nbsp;

In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace in limited-overs cricket, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event.&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is all set to provide a daily dose of entertainment to the cricket enthusiasts across the globe.

The twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is all set to provide a daily dose of entertainment to the cricket enthusiasts across the globe. Indian skipper Virat Kohli even termed the tournament as the most challenging as high-quality rivals will compete in a Round Robin format. Ahead of the World Cup, one of the most discussed topics is the tough English conditions and how it will behave during the tournament. If the conditions are slightly wet then it will pose a challenge for the batsmen and the team with the best seam attack will start with a huge advantage. On the other hand, if the conditions are dry then it will help the batsmen and the bowling side need to show plenty of variety. What does the forecast say? As per the UK weather forecast, the temperature is expected to rise but in the first week, the weather is expected to turn cloudy and wet with outbreaks of heavy rainfall. "Largely cloudy on Thursday and Friday with outbreaks of rain, mainly in the north and west. Long sunny spells in many sheltered central and southern areas. Increasingly warm and humid," according to the Met Office. The long-range weather forecast from June 1 to June 10 said, "Next weekend will be much warmer than recently and locally very warm in the south and east where brightest conditions are likely." "It could be quite warm at times in the southeast where there may be some heavy, thundery showers at times. Confidence in the forecast drops towards the end of next week but there is a possibility of more settled weather generally across the UK," as per the Met Office predictions. From June 11 to June 25, the forecast suggested, "Whilst confidence is low throughout this period, the most probable trend for the middle two weeks of June is for a relatively settled weather picture across the UK. Whilst this may bring spells of dry and often sunny weather, warmer day time temperatures may occasionally trigger heavy, possibly thundery showers." "Temperatures will be near normal or warm overall for the time of year," the long-range added. In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace in limited-overs cricket, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event.

How English conditions are expected to behave in Cricket World Cup 2019

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to enjoy the pressure and expectation that comes with opening the World Cup.&nbsp;

Tournament hosts and favourites England launch the showpiece event <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-opening-clash-between-england-vs-south-africa-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-222213">against South Africa at the Oval</a> on Thursday.&nbsp;

Their last warm-up match saw them rout Afghanistan by nine wickets at the south London venue on Monday, with England dismissing the outsiders for just 160 and then reaching their target in fewer than 18 overs.&nbsp;

The Dubliner was back in the side for this match after recovering from a finger injury but took no active part as he did not field and wasn't required to bat in an England innings where opener Jason Roy scored 89 not out on his Surrey home ground.

England, top of the one-day international rankings, won 4-0 at home to Pakistan in a recent series before a team missing several first-choice players suffered a 12-run warm-up defeat by world champions Australia in Southampton on Saturday.

"We have felt ready the last week or so, even if we didn't play these warm-up games," said Morgan. "As a whole I was very happy with the preparation.&nbsp;

"When you play as convincingly as that it builds confidence in the hard work you've done both in training and in the game and the other side of it is that it gives us the afternoon and evening to switch off -- not playing another close game against a strong side."

Now Morgan has urged England to relish the challenge of facing the Proteas first up in the World Cup.

"Everyone is going to feel that anticipation and excitement of playing the first game and it will be different than any other day and I will be encouraging guys to embrace it," he said.

As well as Morgan's clean bill of health, England were also boosted Monday by the news that fast bowler Mark Wood had been passed fit following fears over a possible recurrence of a longstanding left ankle injury.
<img alt="Cricket World Cup 2019. " data-caption="Cricket World Cup 2019.&amp;nbsp;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f6bff8cd-dd67-4c3c-b83e-34cb55f0b35b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29.jpg" />
'All ready'

"It's the best possible news with both of them," said Morgan. "With Woody being a fast bowler it's inevitable we would have injuries but to come back with the scan as clear as it could be is great, so we are all ready."

The sight of Wood pulling up as he ran in early in his spell in Southampton was understandably concerning given his injury-plagued career, but the Durham quick insisted he had not feared his World Cup might be over before it started.

"I wasn't worried about the scan because I knew it was precautionary," he said.

"I probably could have carried on bowling but I didn't want to take any risks with it when I knew what was round the corner, especially with my background.

"I had a light bowl this (Monday) morning and felt fine, then I had a bit of a heavier bowl whilst the lads were playing football and that felt absolutely fine.&nbsp;

"If anything, I just need to get it on the ice machine 24/7 for the next couple of days. I will fully join in with practice on Wednesday and then be ready to go on Thursday if selected."

England have a trio of new-ball bowlers in their 15-man World Cup squad -- Chris Woakes, Jofra Archer and Wood.

But, having seen England rotate their attack in recent weeks, Wood was ready to wait his turn.&nbsp;

"It is a long tournament with a lot of games so I expect we will mix and match," he said.

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to enjoy the pressure and expectation that comes with opening the World Cup. Tournament hosts and favourites England launch the showpiece event against South Africa at the Oval on Thursday.

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to enjoy the pressure and expectation that comes with opening the World Cup. Tournament hosts and favourites England launch the showpiece event against South Africa at the Oval on Thursday. Their last warm-up match saw them rout Afghanistan by nine wickets at the south London venue on Monday, with England dismissing the outsiders for just 160 and then reaching their target in fewer than 18 overs. The Dubliner was back in the side for this match after recovering from a finger injury but took no active part as he did not field and wasn't required to bat in an England innings where opener Jason Roy scored 89 not out on his Surrey home ground. England, top of the one-day international rankings, won 4-0 at home to Pakistan in a recent series before a team missing several first-choice players suffered a 12-run warm-up defeat by world champions Australia in Southampton on Saturday. "We have felt ready the last week or so, even if we didn't play these warm-up games," said Morgan. "As a whole I was very happy with the preparation. "When you play as convincingly as that it builds confidence in the hard work you've done both in training and in the game and the other side of it is that it gives us the afternoon and evening to switch off -- not playing another close game against a strong side." Now Morgan has urged England to relish the challenge of facing the Proteas first up in the World Cup. "Everyone is going to feel that anticipation and excitement of playing the first game and it will be different than any other day and I will be encouraging guys to embrace it," he said. As well as Morgan's clean bill of health, England were also boosted Monday by the news that fast bowler Mark Wood had been passed fit following fears over a possible recurrence of a longstanding left ankle injury. 'All ready' "It's the best possible news with both of them," said Morgan. "With Woody being a fast bowler it's inevitable we would have injuries but to come back with the scan as clear as it could be is great, so we are all ready." The sight of Wood pulling up as he ran in early in his spell in Southampton was understandably concerning given his injury-plagued career, but the Durham quick insisted he had not feared his World Cup might be over before it started. "I wasn't worried about the scan because I knew it was precautionary," he said. "I probably could have carried on bowling but I didn't want to take any risks with it when I knew what was round the corner, especially with my background. "I had a light bowl this (Monday) morning and felt fine, then I had a bit of a heavier bowl whilst the lads were playing football and that felt absolutely fine. "If anything, I just need to get it on the ice machine 24/7 for the next couple of days. I will fully join in with practice on Wednesday and then be ready to go on Thursday if selected." England have a trio of new-ball bowlers in their 15-man World Cup squad -- Chris Woakes, Jofra Archer and Wood. But, having seen England rotate their attack in recent weeks, Wood was ready to wait his turn. "It is a long tournament with a lot of games so I expect we will mix and match," he said.

Eoin Morgan tells England to 'embrace' World Cup excitement

Hopes are pinned on a born-again West Indies to relive their glory days but skipper Jason Holder says the upcoming World Cup is "a case of creating our own legacy".

Windies have a proud history at the World Cup, winning the first two editions of the tournament and making the final of the third. After struggling for nearly two decades, a few stunning wins against England recently lifted their spirits.

"Not personally," Holder told the ICC when asked if he feels pressurised to re-establish their dominance, adding, "It's just a case of us creating our own legacy.

"We obviously know our history what the past players have done. We will take it stage by stage, step by step, not get too far ahead of ourselves." The presence of big players such as Andre Russell and Chris Gayle have helped, acknowledged the 27-year-old skipper.

"Guys like Andre Russell make it easy for me, they tend to give a lot of support. I can't thank them enough for the support they have given me, I know they continue to rally behind me.

"It's important for us to continue to build as a group. It's a relatively young side and we have got one or two experienced heads in the cam it's a good mix."

He has rated hosts England as the favourites in the showpiece.

"England are the number one side in the world for good reason, you now they are playing some very good cricket, lot of hype around them, they have obviously got the home advantage.

"I guess got to give them respect being the number side in the world ... All teams are practically equally matched, they are well-balanced sides, sides that can defeat anyone on any particular day.

"We have just got to take it game by game, give everyone the respect they deserve and we will have to execute our plans," Holder said.

"It's a dream," opener Evin Lewis was quoted as saying by the International Cricket Council's website when asked about the prospect of West Indies lifting the title.

"Everyone will be glad to be playing in the World Cup. When we won the T20 World Cup in 2016, it was a great feeling, just looking forward to the fifty-over World Cup this year. Hopefully, we can get over the line."

All-rounder Carlos Brathwaite, whose heroics won West Indies the World T20 title in 2016, echoed those sentiments.&nbsp;

"Being here with the team, preparing for the World Cup means a lot to me," he said.&nbsp;

"As I always say, putting on the West Indies shirt is always a great feeling and a privilege ? to do it on the world stage, with the ten best teams fighting it out for the trophy, is something special."

Hopes are pinned on a born-again West Indies to relive their glory days but skipper Jason Holder says the upcoming World Cup is "a case of creating our own legacy".

Hopes are pinned on a born-again West Indies to relive their glory days but skipper Jason Holder says the upcoming World Cup is "a case of creating our own legacy". Windies have a proud history at the World Cup, winning the first two editions of the tournament and making the final of the third. After struggling for nearly two decades, a few stunning wins against England recently lifted their spirits. "Not personally," Holder told the ICC when asked if he feels pressurised to re-establish their dominance, adding, "It's just a case of us creating our own legacy. "We obviously know our history what the past players have done. We will take it stage by stage, step by step, not get too far ahead of ourselves." The presence of big players such as Andre Russell and Chris Gayle have helped, acknowledged the 27-year-old skipper. "Guys like Andre Russell make it easy for me, they tend to give a lot of support. I can't thank them enough for the support they have given me, I know they continue to rally behind me. "It's important for us to continue to build as a group. It's a relatively young side and we have got one or two experienced heads in the cam it's a good mix." He has rated hosts England as the favourites in the showpiece. "England are the number one side in the world for good reason, you now they are playing some very good cricket, lot of hype around them, they have obviously got the home advantage. "I guess got to give them respect being the number side in the world ... All teams are practically equally matched, they are well-balanced sides, sides that can defeat anyone on any particular day. "We have just got to take it game by game, give everyone the respect they deserve and we will have to execute our plans," Holder said. "It's a dream," opener Evin Lewis was quoted as saying by the International Cricket Council's website when asked about the prospect of West Indies lifting the title. "Everyone will be glad to be playing in the World Cup. When we won the T20 World Cup in 2016, it was a great feeling, just looking forward to the fifty-over World Cup this year. Hopefully, we can get over the line." All-rounder Carlos Brathwaite, whose heroics won West Indies the World T20 title in 2016, echoed those sentiments. "Being here with the team, preparing for the World Cup means a lot to me," he said. "As I always say, putting on the West Indies shirt is always a great feeling and a privilege ? to do it on the world stage, with the ten best teams fighting it out for the trophy, is something special."

It's a case of creating our own legacy: Windies skipper Holder on World Cup

Afghanistan announced their intentions of being more than mere pushovers as they stunned Pakistan by three wickets in a World Cup warm-up game that went to the wire.&nbsp;

Young middle-order batsman Hashmatullah Shahidi played the role of sheet anchor to perfection with an unbeaten 74 as Afghanistan chased down a below-par target of 263 set by Pakistan with a couple of balls to spare.

If the IPL stars Mohammed Nabi (3/46) and Rashid Khan (2/27) set it up by restricting Pakistan to well below 300, it was Shahidi's composure that saw Afghanistan cross the finishing line despite some late hiccups.

Veteran Nabi after a good bowling performance also did his bit with the bat, scoring 34 off 41 balls, including three boundaries.

Shahidi's patient knock had seven fours and he played 102 balls. A lot of credit should also go to opener Hazrtullah Zazai for his 49 off 28 balls that had eight fours and two sixes. It was after Mohammed Shahzad retired hurt for 23.

Zazai set the pace in the Powerplay overs which enabled Shahidi to deal in singles and the occasional boundary as the Pakistan bowling looked pedestrian.

Mohammed Aamir (0/27 in 6 overs) didn't get the ball to swing as most of his deliveries were seen angling across the right-handers while Wahab Riaz did bowl well at the death getting the ball to reverse.

Earlier, when Pakistan batted, their no 1 batsman Babar Azam (112 off 108 balls) was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting show as Nabi and Rashid choked the run-flow in the middle overs.

Brief Scores: Pakistan 262 in 47.5 overs (Babar Azam 112 off 108 balls, Shoaib Malik 44 off 59 balls, Mohammed Nabi 3/46 in 10 overs, Rashid Khan 2/27 in 9 overs)

Afghanistan 263 in 49.4 overs (Hazratullah Zazai 48 off 29 balls, Hashmatullah Shahidi 74 no off 102 balls, Mohammed Nabi 34 off 41 balls, Wahab Riaz 3/46).&nbsp;

Afghanistan announced their intentions of being more than mere pushovers as they stunned Pakistan by three wickets in a World Cup warm-up game that went to the wire.

Afghanistan announced their intentions of being more than mere pushovers as they stunned Pakistan by three wickets in a World Cup warm-up game that went to the wire. Young middle-order batsman Hashmatullah Shahidi played the role of sheet anchor to perfection with an unbeaten 74 as Afghanistan chased down a below-par target of 263 set by Pakistan with a couple of balls to spare. If the IPL stars Mohammed Nabi (3/46) and Rashid Khan (2/27) set it up by restricting Pakistan to well below 300, it was Shahidi's composure that saw Afghanistan cross the finishing line despite some late hiccups. Veteran Nabi after a good bowling performance also did his bit with the bat, scoring 34 off 41 balls, including three boundaries. Shahidi's patient knock had seven fours and he played 102 balls. A lot of credit should also go to opener Hazrtullah Zazai for his 49 off 28 balls that had eight fours and two sixes. It was after Mohammed Shahzad retired hurt for 23. Zazai set the pace in the Powerplay overs which enabled Shahidi to deal in singles and the occasional boundary as the Pakistan bowling looked pedestrian. Mohammed Aamir (0/27 in 6 overs) didn't get the ball to swing as most of his deliveries were seen angling across the right-handers while Wahab Riaz did bowl well at the death getting the ball to reverse. Earlier, when Pakistan batted, their no 1 batsman Babar Azam (112 off 108 balls) was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting show as Nabi and Rashid choked the run-flow in the middle overs. Brief Scores: Pakistan 262 in 47.5 overs (Babar Azam 112 off 108 balls, Shoaib Malik 44 off 59 balls, Mohammed Nabi 3/46 in 10 overs, Rashid Khan 2/27 in 9 overs) Afghanistan 263 in 49.4 overs (Hazratullah Zazai 48 off 29 balls, Hashmatullah Shahidi 74 no off 102 balls, Mohammed Nabi 34 off 41 balls, Wahab Riaz 3/46).

World Cup Warm-Up: Young Hashmatullah Shahidi shines as Afghanistan stun Pakistan

Australian batsmen David Warner and Steve Smith were booed and heckled by the crowd in their warm-up game against England on Saturday ahead of the World Cup beginning next week.&nbsp;

Warner and Smith returned to the Australian team earlier this month after completing one-year bans for their involvement in a ball-tampering scandal in a Test match in South Africa. The duo's ban had ended on March 29.&nbsp;

There were scattered boos when opening batsman Warner walked out to bat along with captain Aaron Finch in the warm-up match after Australia lost the toss.&nbsp;

A spectator was heard shouting "Get off Warner you cheat".&nbsp;

There were more boos as Warner walked off after being dismissed for 43 to be replaced by Smith, coming in with Australia 82 for two in the 17th over.

Smith played a brilliant innings of 116 off 102 balls and he was out in the penultimate delivery of the Australian innings.&nbsp;

There were a few chants of "cheat, cheat, cheat" when Smith arrived, although a lone Australia fan shouted back "Get 'em Stevie!", according to BBC.

But when Smith reached his fifty, the applause outweighed the boos but the jeers were very much audible. He was booed again when he reached his hundred in the 48th over.

Asked about the boos after the Australian innings, Smith said, "I'm pretty chilled, everyone is entitled to their opinion. I'm just happy to be back playing and doing a job for my team. I fortunately was able to contribute for the team."&nbsp;

The disgraced duo's first match in England was a hastily arranged, unofficial warm-up match against the West Indies here on Wednesday. But that fixture was played in front of fewer than 30 spectators, whereas there were several thousands here on Saturday.

Reigning world champions Australia are set to be in England for more than four months in a tour featuring both the World Cup and a five-Test Ashes series.

Australian batsmen David Warner and Steve Smith were booed and heckled by the crowd in their warm-up game against England on Saturday ahead of the World Cup beginning next week.

Australian batsmen David Warner and Steve Smith were booed and heckled by the crowd in their warm-up game against England on Saturday ahead of the World Cup beginning next week. Warner and Smith returned to the Australian team earlier this month after completing one-year bans for their involvement in a ball-tampering scandal in a Test match in South Africa. The duo's ban had ended on March 29. There were scattered boos when opening batsman Warner walked out to bat along with captain Aaron Finch in the warm-up match after Australia lost the toss. A spectator was heard shouting "Get off Warner you cheat". There were more boos as Warner walked off after being dismissed for 43 to be replaced by Smith, coming in with Australia 82 for two in the 17th over. Smith played a brilliant innings of 116 off 102 balls and he was out in the penultimate delivery of the Australian innings. There were a few chants of "cheat, cheat, cheat" when Smith arrived, although a lone Australia fan shouted back "Get 'em Stevie!", according to BBC. But when Smith reached his fifty, the applause outweighed the boos but the jeers were very much audible. He was booed again when he reached his hundred in the 48th over. Asked about the boos after the Australian innings, Smith said, "I'm pretty chilled, everyone is entitled to their opinion. I'm just happy to be back playing and doing a job for my team. I fortunately was able to contribute for the team." The disgraced duo's first match in England was a hastily arranged, unofficial warm-up match against the West Indies here on Wednesday. But that fixture was played in front of fewer than 30 spectators, whereas there were several thousands here on Saturday. Reigning world champions Australia are set to be in England for more than four months in a tour featuring both the World Cup and a five-Test Ashes series.

David Warner, Steve Smith booed by crowd in warm-up match against England

India's Vijay Shankar seemed all focussed on his preparation for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick-off from May 30.&nbsp;

"This year has been pretty good, I had a good 'A' series in New Zealand recently which got me the Indian team call-up and it changed after that. I'm not someone who expects things to happen, I focus hard on my preparation," ICC quoted Vijay Shankar as saying.&nbsp;

Vijay Shankar will make his World Cup debut and is one of the suitable candidates to play on the fourth spot for India.&nbsp;

"I will keep working hard on all aspects of my game, whenever the opportunity comes I will always try my best for the team. The last few years, from travelling, you see a lot of supporters all over the world, and they're definitely going to be there (in England), 50/50 sometimes," he added.&nbsp;

Shankar described representing his country as the 'best thing' and said that they will deliver based on what they have practiced and worked hard for. &nbsp;

"It's going to be really nice to experience that and I'm looking forward to that experience. Even if it is just one match that I win for the team, I'll be very happy about that," he said.&nbsp;

"The pressure is going to be there every game, but if we starting thinking about the bigger stage and how it is a World Cup it can affect your own instincts. Whatever we have practised and worked hard for, it is important to go in and react to whatever happens. You just have to be prepared for whenever you get the opportunity. You have to enjoy it, because it is the best thing to represent your country," he said.

India will start their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

India's Vijay Shankar seemed all focussed on his preparation for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick-off from May 30. "This year has been pretty good, I had a good 'A' series in New Zealand recently which got me the Indian team call-up and it changed after that.

India's Vijay Shankar seemed all focussed on his preparation for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick-off from May 30. "This year has been pretty good, I had a good 'A' series in New Zealand recently which got me the Indian team call-up and it changed after that. I'm not someone who expects things to happen, I focus hard on my preparation," ICC quoted Vijay Shankar as saying. Vijay Shankar will make his World Cup debut and is one of the suitable candidates to play on the fourth spot for India. "I will keep working hard on all aspects of my game, whenever the opportunity comes I will always try my best for the team. The last few years, from travelling, you see a lot of supporters all over the world, and they're definitely going to be there (in England), 50/50 sometimes," he added. Shankar described representing his country as the 'best thing' and said that they will deliver based on what they have practiced and worked hard for. "It's going to be really nice to experience that and I'm looking forward to that experience. Even if it is just one match that I win for the team, I'll be very happy about that," he said. "The pressure is going to be there every game, but if we starting thinking about the bigger stage and how it is a World Cup it can affect your own instincts. Whatever we have practised and worked hard for, it is important to go in and react to whatever happens. You just have to be prepared for whenever you get the opportunity. You have to enjoy it, because it is the best thing to represent your country," he said. India will start their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

Vijay Shankar focusing hard on his preparation for World Cup

KL Rahul knows exactly what it would mean to win this year's&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in England, having seen for himself what a 2011 triumph on home soil meant to his fellow Indians.

Eight years ago, Rahul was a teenager watching television in a Bangalore bar as Gautam Gambhir's 97 and then-captain MS Dhoni's 91 not out saw India beat Sri Lanka in the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final in Mumbai. &nbsp;

"When the game was over it was absolute chaos. The roads were blocked, everybody left their homes and was on the road celebrating," Rahul said Friday as he recalled the aftermath of India's second&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;triumph.

"It was an unbelievable experience to see so many people forgetting about their worries. Whatever they had going on in their lives, they were just so, so happy India had won the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup.

"It was even bigger because we won it at home in India -- it brought billions of people together and brought so much joy."

Rahul was already a first-class cricketer but said watching the match made him want to focus more.

"I knew what a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;could do to the country, how big it is and how valuable it is to be part of a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;dream," he said.

"To be here after eight years representing my country means the&nbsp;world&nbsp;to me. I'm looking forward to hopefully inspiring billions of people again and to win the&nbsp;WorldCup&nbsp;would be the icing on the cake."

Now the 27-year-old Rahul finds himself in the same side as Dhoni and fellow 2011 winner Virat Kohli, the star batsman who has succeeded the wicket-keeper as India captain.

And he said the current side had the talent to equal the achievement of Kapil Dev's celebrated team in 1983 by winning a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in England.

"To be part of this team is incredible,” Rahul said. "It's not just MS and Virat, there are so many other talented individuals -- Rohit (Sharma) and Shikhar (Dhawan) and Jasprit (Bumrah), who is the most feared bowler in&nbsp;world&nbsp;cricket right now.

"Hopefully the hard work we have put in over the past two or three years means we can go out there, enjoy ourselves and win the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup."

KL Rahul knows exactly what it would mean to win this year's World Cup in England, having seen for himself what a 2011 triumph on home soil meant to his fellow Indians.

KL Rahul knows exactly what it would mean to win this year's World Cup in England, having seen for himself what a 2011 triumph on home soil meant to his fellow Indians. Eight years ago, Rahul was a teenager watching television in a Bangalore bar as Gautam Gambhir's 97 and then-captain MS Dhoni's 91 not out saw India beat Sri Lanka in the World Cup final in Mumbai. "When the game was over it was absolute chaos. The roads were blocked, everybody left their homes and was on the road celebrating," Rahul said Friday as he recalled the aftermath of India's second World Cup triumph. "It was an unbelievable experience to see so many people forgetting about their worries. Whatever they had going on in their lives, they were just so, so happy India had won the World Cup. "It was even bigger because we won it at home in India -- it brought billions of people together and brought so much joy." Rahul was already a first-class cricketer but said watching the match made him want to focus more. "I knew what a World Cup could do to the country, how big it is and how valuable it is to be part of a World Cup dream," he said. "To be here after eight years representing my country means the world to me. I'm looking forward to hopefully inspiring billions of people again and to win the WorldCup would be the icing on the cake." Now the 27-year-old Rahul finds himself in the same side as Dhoni and fellow 2011 winner Virat Kohli, the star batsman who has succeeded the wicket-keeper as India captain. And he said the current side had the talent to equal the achievement of Kapil Dev's celebrated team in 1983 by winning a World Cup in England. "To be part of this team is incredible,” Rahul said. "It's not just MS and Virat, there are so many other talented individuals -- Rohit (Sharma) and Shikhar (Dhawan) and Jasprit (Bumrah), who is the most feared bowler in world cricket right now. "Hopefully the hard work we have put in over the past two or three years means we can go out there, enjoy ourselves and win the World Cup."

KL Rahul inspired by memories of 2011 World Cup glory

The Cricket World Cup has produced many thrilling contests in its 44-year history. Here are the five most memorable moments:

1975: Gilmour's great day 
Tournament hosts England were well aware of the threat posed by fearsome fast bowlers Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson ahead of a World Cup semi-final against old rivals Australia.

But instead, they were undone by a sensational burst of left-arm swing bowling from Gary Gilmour as the 23-year-old took six for 14, with England all out for just 93.

Gilmour's work was far from finished, however. Australia collapsed in turn and were 39 for six, after Chris Old had taken three wickets on his Headingley home ground, when Gilmour came into bat.&nbsp;

But his 28 not out and an unbroken stand with Doug Walters saw Australia into the final.

1983: Kapil's 'unseen' hundred 
Zimbabwe, who had already beaten Australia on the back of a fine all-round performance by future England coach Duncan Fletcher, were on the verge of another shock win when they reduced India to 17 for five.

But India captain Kapil Dev responded with a stunning knock of 175 off 138 balls -- an innings only seen by spectators at the Nevill Ground in Tunbridge Wells as a strike by BBC technicians meant the match was not broadcast on television.

An eventual total of 266 proved too much for Zimbabwe, with Kapil's century an example of the inspirational leadership that would see India crowned champions a week later.

1999: Australia 'win' in a tie 
Perhaps the most thrilling World Cup game of them all, this Edgbaston semi-final saw Australia make 213, with South Africa paceman Shaun Pollock taking five for 36.

Jonty Rhodes and Jacques Kallis took the Proteas most of the way towards chasing down a target, with their side needing nine off the last over and then one run with one wicket left.

But when Lance Klusener hit the ball to mid-off and set off for a single, non-striker Allan Donald did not hear the call then dropped his bat. Mark Waugh fielded the ball, threw it to bowler Damien Fleming, who in turn rolled it down the pitch where wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist completed a run-out.

Although the match was tied, Australia advanced into the final thanks to a superior net run-rate.

2011: O'Brien overwhelms England 
England seemed to have done enough with the bat against Ireland, then a non-Test nation, when they made 327 for eight -- a total no side had ever previously chased down in a World Cup match.

But on a never-to-be-forgotten night in Bangalore, up stepped Kevin O'Brien to hit the quickest century in World Cup history, off just 50 balls, including 13 fours and six sixes.

Ireland, who had been 111 for five, went on to complete a stunning three-wicket win.

2015: 'Old boy' breaks South Africa's hearts 
Fifties from Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers took South Africa to 281 for five in an Auckland semi-final innings reduced by rain to 43 overs per side.

The Black Caps then saw all-rounder Grant Elliott, born in Johannesburg but who had left for New Zealand in 2001, play the innings of his life.

New Zealand still needed five to win with two balls left when Elliott settled the issue with a remarkable six over mid-on off fast bowler Dale Steyn.

It was the final shot in a match-winning innings of 84 not out that saw New Zealand's men into their first World Cup final after six previous semi-final defeats as South Africa suffered yet more knockout anguish.

The Cricket World Cup has produced many thrilling contests in its 44-year history. Here are the five most memorable moments: 1975: Gilmour's great day Tournament hosts England were well aware of the threat posed by fearsome fast bowlers Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson ahead of a World Cup semi-final against old rivals Australia.

The Cricket World Cup has produced many thrilling contests in its 44-year history. Here are the five most memorable moments: 1975: Gilmour's great day Tournament hosts England were well aware of the threat posed by fearsome fast bowlers Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson ahead of a World Cup semi-final against old rivals Australia. But instead, they were undone by a sensational burst of left-arm swing bowling from Gary Gilmour as the 23-year-old took six for 14, with England all out for just 93. Gilmour's work was far from finished, however. Australia collapsed in turn and were 39 for six, after Chris Old had taken three wickets on his Headingley home ground, when Gilmour came into bat. But his 28 not out and an unbroken stand with Doug Walters saw Australia into the final. 1983: Kapil's 'unseen' hundred Zimbabwe, who had already beaten Australia on the back of a fine all-round performance by future England coach Duncan Fletcher, were on the verge of another shock win when they reduced India to 17 for five. But India captain Kapil Dev responded with a stunning knock of 175 off 138 balls -- an innings only seen by spectators at the Nevill Ground in Tunbridge Wells as a strike by BBC technicians meant the match was not broadcast on television. An eventual total of 266 proved too much for Zimbabwe, with Kapil's century an example of the inspirational leadership that would see India crowned champions a week later. 1999: Australia 'win' in a tie Perhaps the most thrilling World Cup game of them all, this Edgbaston semi-final saw Australia make 213, with South Africa paceman Shaun Pollock taking five for 36. Jonty Rhodes and Jacques Kallis took the Proteas most of the way towards chasing down a target, with their side needing nine off the last over and then one run with one wicket left. But when Lance Klusener hit the ball to mid-off and set off for a single, non-striker Allan Donald did not hear the call then dropped his bat. Mark Waugh fielded the ball, threw it to bowler Damien Fleming, who in turn rolled it down the pitch where wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist completed a run-out. Although the match was tied, Australia advanced into the final thanks to a superior net run-rate. 2011: O'Brien overwhelms England England seemed to have done enough with the bat against Ireland, then a non-Test nation, when they made 327 for eight -- a total no side had ever previously chased down in a World Cup match. But on a never-to-be-forgotten night in Bangalore, up stepped Kevin O'Brien to hit the quickest century in World Cup history, off just 50 balls, including 13 fours and six sixes. Ireland, who had been 111 for five, went on to complete a stunning three-wicket win. 2015: 'Old boy' breaks South Africa's hearts Fifties from Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers took South Africa to 281 for five in an Auckland semi-final innings reduced by rain to 43 overs per side. The Black Caps then saw all-rounder Grant Elliott, born in Johannesburg but who had left for New Zealand in 2001, play the innings of his life. New Zealand still needed five to win with two balls left when Elliott settled the issue with a remarkable six over mid-on off fast bowler Dale Steyn. It was the final shot in a match-winning innings of 84 not out that saw New Zealand's men into their first World Cup final after six previous semi-final defeats as South Africa suffered yet more knockout anguish.

Five memorable moments of Cricket World Cup

India captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">upcoming World Cup</a>.

Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Sussex quick, capable of bowling at 90 miles-an-hour (145 kmh), celebrated his inclusion by setting his sights on dismissing Kohli, long one of the world's leading batsmen, during the competition. &nbsp;

"I'd quite like to get&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli out because I wasn't able to in the IPL," Archer, who only qualified for England in March, told Sky Sports.

Kohli, who had been told of Archer's comments at a captains' press conference in London on Thursday, said: "That's news to me, news to Morgs (England skipper Eoin Morgan) as well. I don't really focus on these things.

"I take a lot of pride in performing well for the team and making a big impact on each game I play, so if Jofra said that it's a big compliment as he himself is a world-class bowler."

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'Intimidating'

Kohli added: "And the way he has come through in the IPL over the last couple of years, I have seen him and he's played all around the world and done well so there's a good reason why he's been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like the World Cup.

"I think he's going to be the X-factor because he has all the skill-sets and he's very different from anyone else.

"He can generate a lot of pace, which can be intimidating, and you don't really expect that from his run-up."

England have climbed to the top of the ODI rankings since their humiliating group-stage exit at the 2015 World Cup and are threatening the smash the 500-run barrier, once considered all but impossible in 50 overs.

But Kohli predicted that some World Cup matches would be low-scoring affairs.&nbsp;

"They (England) seem to be obsessed with getting to 500 before anyone else," he said. "They smash it from ball one and for the full 50 overs."

"It could be pretty high scoring, but 260-270 is going to be as difficult to get as chasing 370, 380 in a World Cup," he added.

"When you get closer to the knockout phase that is going to bring greater pressure and no-one is going to go gung-ho from ball one," he said.

"Generally teams will find a way but I see pressure playing a massive role."

England launch the World Cup against South Africa at The Oval on May 30.

With all 10 teams playing each other in the group phase, England are scheduled to play India at Edgbaston on June 30.

India captain Virat Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the upcoming World Cup. Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals.

India captain Virat Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the upcoming World Cup. Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals. The 24-year-old Sussex quick, capable of bowling at 90 miles-an-hour (145 kmh), celebrated his inclusion by setting his sights on dismissing Kohli, long one of the world's leading batsmen, during the competition. "I'd quite like to get Virat Kohli out because I wasn't able to in the IPL," Archer, who only qualified for England in March, told Sky Sports. Kohli, who had been told of Archer's comments at a captains' press conference in London on Thursday, said: "That's news to me, news to Morgs (England skipper Eoin Morgan) as well. I don't really focus on these things. "I take a lot of pride in performing well for the team and making a big impact on each game I play, so if Jofra said that it's a big compliment as he himself is a world-class bowler." × 'Intimidating' Kohli added: "And the way he has come through in the IPL over the last couple of years, I have seen him and he's played all around the world and done well so there's a good reason why he's been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like the World Cup. "I think he's going to be the X-factor because he has all the skill-sets and he's very different from anyone else. "He can generate a lot of pace, which can be intimidating, and you don't really expect that from his run-up." England have climbed to the top of the ODI rankings since their humiliating group-stage exit at the 2015 World Cup and are threatening the smash the 500-run barrier, once considered all but impossible in 50 overs. But Kohli predicted that some World Cup matches would be low-scoring affairs. "They (England) seem to be obsessed with getting to 500 before anyone else," he said. "They smash it from ball one and for the full 50 overs." "It could be pretty high scoring, but 260-270 is going to be as difficult to get as chasing 370, 380 in a World Cup," he added. "When you get closer to the knockout phase that is going to bring greater pressure and no-one is going to go gung-ho from ball one," he said. "Generally teams will find a way but I see pressure playing a massive role." England launch the World Cup against South Africa at The Oval on May 30. With all 10 teams playing each other in the group phase, England are scheduled to play India at Edgbaston on June 30.

Virat Kohli honoured to be World Cup target for 'X-factor' Jofra Archer

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/gautam-gambhirs-successful-debut-in-political-innings-221074#support-by-fellow-cricketers-220998">won the Lok Sabha 2019 election</a> from East Delhi constituency, said losing two points by not playing against Pakistan is nothing compared to lives of our soldiers. &nbsp;

"We can’t play with the sentiments of our country," he told Zee News Hindi when asked if India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Two points are not important than the lives of our soldiers but for this, the entire country needs to be on&nbsp;the same page. We should have the courage to lose points even it's the first match or the finals," he added.&nbsp;

"Even if we boycott playing the World Cup final against Pakistan, the country must stand together, there can't be a difference of opinions," said Gambhir.&nbsp;

"There should not be any backlash for the decision taken," the former India opening batsman added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ResultsOnZee?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ResultsOnZee</a> : पाकिस्तान के साथ वर्ल्ड कप खेलने को लेकर गंभीर का बड़ा बयान, मेरे लिए दो पॉइंट से ज्यादा जवानों की ज़िन्दगी ज्यादा मैटर करती है !<a href="https://twitter.com/aditi_tyagi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aditi_tyagi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://t.co/tUMCA3LpUo">pic.twitter.com/tUMCA3LpUo</a>
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In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan have not played a full bilateral series after the Mumbai terror attacks in November 2008.&nbsp;

Reflecting on the same, Gambhir said, "There should not any conditional ban on Pakistan. If we want to play against Pakistan than it should be in every format as there's no room for conditional bans."&nbsp;

"Either we should ban Pakistan from all the formats or the should play cricket or other sports in all formats," he added. &nbsp;

India will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 6.&nbsp;

The team is scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

Ahead of the World Cup, Gambhir wished the Indian cricket team all the best. He said, "In 2011, we won the Cup and now again we have a chance to bring the Cup back."&nbsp;

Gambhir was part of the 2007 T20 World Cup winning squad and played a key role in India's triumph in the 2011 World Cup.&nbsp;

There is no bigger achievement than representing your country in the World Cup and I wish that the Cup comes back in India, he added.&nbsp;

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha 2019 election from East Delhi constituency, said losing two points by not playing against Pakistan is nothing compared to lives of our soldiers.

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha 2019 election from East Delhi constituency, said losing two points by not playing against Pakistan is nothing compared to lives of our soldiers. "We can’t play with the sentiments of our country," he told Zee News Hindi when asked if India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. "Two points are not important than the lives of our soldiers but for this, the entire country needs to be on the same page. We should have the courage to lose points even it's the first match or the finals," he added. "Even if we boycott playing the World Cup final against Pakistan, the country must stand together, there can't be a difference of opinions," said Gambhir. "There should not be any backlash for the decision taken," the former India opening batsman added. #ResultsOnZee : पाकिस्तान के साथ वर्ल्ड कप खेलने को लेकर गंभीर का बड़ा बयान, मेरे लिए दो पॉइंट से ज्यादा जवानों की ज़िन्दगी ज्यादा मैटर करती है !@aditi_tyagi @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/tUMCA3LpUo — Zee News Hindi (@ZeeNewsHindi) May 24, 2019 × In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan. India and Pakistan have not played a full bilateral series after the Mumbai terror attacks in November 2008. Reflecting on the same, Gambhir said, "There should not any conditional ban on Pakistan. If we want to play against Pakistan than it should be in every format as there's no room for conditional bans." "Either we should ban Pakistan from all the formats or the should play cricket or other sports in all formats," he added. India will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 6. The team is scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. Ahead of the World Cup, Gambhir wished the Indian cricket team all the best. He said, "In 2011, we won the Cup and now again we have a chance to bring the Cup back." Gambhir was part of the 2007 T20 World Cup winning squad and played a key role in India's triumph in the 2011 World Cup. There is no bigger achievement than representing your country in the World Cup and I wish that the Cup comes back in India, he added.

'All the best to team India,' says Gautam Gambhir ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019

Leg spinner Rashid Khan is already on his way to becoming Afghanistan's first sporting superstar and the 20-year-old is determined his first World Cup will be remembered for his country achieving something rather than just taking part.

The world's best Twenty20 bowler, Rashid was just 18 when he exploded onto the world stage with the fourth best haul in one-day international history, taking seven for 18 to help Afghanistan beat West Indies in St Lucia.

Rashid was already an ODI veteran by then, having made his debut soon after his 17th birthday, and has since taken his career figures to 125 wickets at an average of 15.33 in 59 matches -- good enough for third spot in the ICC rankings.

His batting is good enough -- 798 runs at an average of 22.80 -- that he is number two in the world all-rounder rankings in ODIs but it his leg spin, most notably his devastating quick wrong 'un, that sets him apart.

"Rashid Khan is a once-in-a-lifetime bowler," Australia's Adam Zampa purred after a recent net session with the Afghan.

"The reason he runs in so fast is because he’s got really thick fingers and holds the ball right at the end. He bowls it right at the end and he's so hard to pick because he just uses the end of his fingers.

"I tried doing it but they were just slipping out, I was like 'this bloke is unbelievable'."

It is not only his wicket-taking that makes Rashid such a threat but his ability to contain batsmen as they look to pour on runs in the latter stages of an innings, a skill he illustrated in this year's Indian Premier League.

His teammate and fellow spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman is the only active bowler more economical than Rashid in ODIs, even if much of their careers have been spent playing against teams from the lower end of the rankings.

Rashid did experience victories over Sri Lanka and Bangladesh as well as a tie with a weakened India side when Afghanistan finished second at the Asian Cup last year but he knows the World Cup will be another step up.

Debutants without him at the last World Cup in 2015, Afghanistan secured just one victory over Scotland and were humbled by eventual champions Australia, who they meet in their opener at this year's edition on June 1 in Bristol.

They will continue to be an inspiration to their compatriots in their war-ravaged country whatever they do, of course, but Rashid thinks it is high time Afghanistan turned their undoubted talent into some kind of success.

"We have the skills, everything," Rashid told Adelaide's Advertiser newspaper earlier this month.

"We need to show the world we are not only good on paper ... We didn't do well in the past under pressure but I think this World Cup is about beating big teams and play good cricket like we did in the Asia Cup.

"It is time for us to deliver something."

Leg spinner Rashid Khan is already on his way to becoming Afghanistan's first sporting superstar and the 20-year-old is determined his first World Cup will be remembered for his country achieving something rather than just taking part.

Leg spinner Rashid Khan is already on his way to becoming Afghanistan's first sporting superstar and the 20-year-old is determined his first World Cup will be remembered for his country achieving something rather than just taking part. The world's best Twenty20 bowler, Rashid was just 18 when he exploded onto the world stage with the fourth best haul in one-day international history, taking seven for 18 to help Afghanistan beat West Indies in St Lucia. Rashid was already an ODI veteran by then, having made his debut soon after his 17th birthday, and has since taken his career figures to 125 wickets at an average of 15.33 in 59 matches -- good enough for third spot in the ICC rankings. His batting is good enough -- 798 runs at an average of 22.80 -- that he is number two in the world all-rounder rankings in ODIs but it his leg spin, most notably his devastating quick wrong 'un, that sets him apart. "Rashid Khan is a once-in-a-lifetime bowler," Australia's Adam Zampa purred after a recent net session with the Afghan. "The reason he runs in so fast is because he’s got really thick fingers and holds the ball right at the end. He bowls it right at the end and he's so hard to pick because he just uses the end of his fingers. "I tried doing it but they were just slipping out, I was like 'this bloke is unbelievable'." It is not only his wicket-taking that makes Rashid such a threat but his ability to contain batsmen as they look to pour on runs in the latter stages of an innings, a skill he illustrated in this year's Indian Premier League. His teammate and fellow spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman is the only active bowler more economical than Rashid in ODIs, even if much of their careers have been spent playing against teams from the lower end of the rankings. Rashid did experience victories over Sri Lanka and Bangladesh as well as a tie with a weakened India side when Afghanistan finished second at the Asian Cup last year but he knows the World Cup will be another step up. Debutants without him at the last World Cup in 2015, Afghanistan secured just one victory over Scotland and were humbled by eventual champions Australia, who they meet in their opener at this year's edition on June 1 in Bristol. They will continue to be an inspiration to their compatriots in their war-ravaged country whatever they do, of course, but Rashid thinks it is high time Afghanistan turned their undoubted talent into some kind of success. "We have the skills, everything," Rashid told Adelaide's Advertiser newspaper earlier this month. "We need to show the world we are not only good on paper ... We didn't do well in the past under pressure but I think this World Cup is about beating big teams and play good cricket like we did in the Asia Cup. "It is time for us to deliver something."

Participation not enough for Afghanistan poster boy Rashid Khan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420">India </a>need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-i-prepare-myself-for-world-cup-will-be-real-challenge-for-me-vijay-shankar-219589">Vijay Shankar</a> is set to bat at number four in the earlier games.

Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQi-bjhbHiAhXM_XMBHT6qBvAQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2F5wk0k7uAwWI_lkpFFqMM">Tendulkar</a>.

"My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo.

"I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat at No. 3</a> and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said.

"That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-needs-ms-dhoni-in-2019-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-174415&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV4u2DhrHiAhWKPo8KHdLkDsU4ChAWMAN6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1mpLLYAel5FcZKB5KiPtPD">Dhoni </a>can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added.

Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners.

"A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said.

"And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added.

England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing.

"I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said.

"It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar. Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder Vijay Shankar is set to bat at number four in the earlier games. Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes Tendulkar. "My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo. "I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to Virat at No. 3 and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said. "That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and Dhoni can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added. Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners. "A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said. "And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added. England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing. "I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said. "It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

Sachin Tendulkar says, MS Dhoni best suited at No 5 for India at the Cricket World Cup 2019

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat Kohli</a>, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294">Sachin Tendulkar</a>.

In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation.

"I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions.

Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation.

"I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said.

However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day.

"It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time.

What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls.

"The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman.

"When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups.

Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen.

What's the solution then? He responded,&nbsp;"I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers."

According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal.

The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England.

"Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs.

"Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes."

For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan.

"Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said.

"There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said.

What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience.

"There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar.

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar. In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation. "I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions. Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation. "I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said. However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day. "It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time. What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls. "The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman. "When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups. Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen. What's the solution then? He responded, "I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers." According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal. The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England. "Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs. "Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes." For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan. "Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said. "There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said. What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience. "There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.

Virat alone can't win World Cup, others will need to step up: Sachin Tendulkar 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#india-211481">Indian cricket team</a> captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup,&nbsp;which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Kohli said, "Handling pressure is the most important thing in the World Cup and not necessarily the conditions. All our bowlers are fresh, no one looks fatigued."

"I think the only expectation we have is to play really good cricket and that's been our focus," Kohli added.&nbsp;

"The team has been together for past four-five years and bowled together as unit. All players complement each other and can adjust accordingly," said Kohli on the Indian squad.&nbsp;

The skipper also reflected his thoughts on England's pitches.&nbsp;

"Our mantra is to be flexible in the last 10 overs, pitches are going to be flat but overcast conditions will also have to be taken into consideration. It will also depend on venue to venue, so you have to be prepared for that and be flexible," Kohli said.&nbsp;

On the other hand, coach Ravi Shastri said, "World Cup might be a stage but the stage is to be enjoyed, if we play to our potential then the Cup might be back here."

On the changed format of the World Cup, Shastri said, "Format is also challenging, the gap between team is also very close. It's a very strong competition. It will be fantastic. The plus side is you have nine games."

"It's a strong competition, even Bangladesh and Afghanistan are much stronger than in 2015," Shastri added.&nbsp;

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On MS Dhoni, Shastri said, "He has a massive role. There is no one better than him in this format especially in those little moments which can change the game. He will be a big player in this World Cup."

Indian will play two&nbsp;warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before&nbsp;starting their campaign against South Africa on June 6.&nbsp;

Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.&nbsp;

<img alt="Team Indian World Cup squad" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a623d9f-9a07-49c1-add9-b2b2f70210eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India%2011.jpg" />

The BCCI Selection Committee added KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar and it is expected that they might be considered for the number four spot.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked.&nbsp;

Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30. During the press conference, Kohli said, "Handling pressure is the most important thing in the World Cup and not necessarily the conditions. All our bowlers are fresh, no one looks fatigued." "I think the only expectation we have is to play really good cricket and that's been our focus," Kohli added. "The team has been together for past four-five years and bowled together as unit. All players complement each other and can adjust accordingly," said Kohli on the Indian squad. The skipper also reflected his thoughts on England's pitches. "Our mantra is to be flexible in the last 10 overs, pitches are going to be flat but overcast conditions will also have to be taken into consideration. It will also depend on venue to venue, so you have to be prepared for that and be flexible," Kohli said. On the other hand, coach Ravi Shastri said, "World Cup might be a stage but the stage is to be enjoyed, if we play to our potential then the Cup might be back here." On the changed format of the World Cup, Shastri said, "Format is also challenging, the gap between team is also very close. It's a very strong competition. It will be fantastic. The plus side is you have nine games." "It's a strong competition, even Bangladesh and Afghanistan are much stronger than in 2015," Shastri added. × On MS Dhoni, Shastri said, "He has a massive role. There is no one better than him in this format especially in those little moments which can change the game. He will be a big player in this World Cup." Indian will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their campaign against South Africa on June 6. Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow. The BCCI Selection Committee added KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar and it is expected that they might be considered for the number four spot. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked. Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.

Virat Kohli: No fatigue due to IPL, World Cup conditions not a challenge

Major takeaways from Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri's press conference ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019

Bangladesh head coach, Steve Rodes on Tuesday said that the team`s recent success in the Tri-nation series proves that the team is stronger within the squad and there`s more to the side than just their big five players.&nbsp;

"There have been two or three guys who have played special innings. If you think of Mosaddek, for example, he is a guy now who is going to keep everybody on their toes. That`s the depth of the squad and he might not play, and if he doesn`t, then what a great position we have. It gives us the confidence that we can win some big games as well," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Rhodes as saying.&nbsp;

"That means Bangladesh is stronger within the squad, and that`s what we want as we want more depth, and if we get that depth, then people will stop talking about the big five," he added.&nbsp;

Bangladesh defeated West Indies in the finals of the Tri-nation series on Friday, May 17. In the match, Bangladesh was without their star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan as he was ruled out of the game due to a side strain.&nbsp;

Their other key players like Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah played secondary roles in the run-chase. Chasing a score of 210 in 24 overs, Soumya Sarkar top-scored for the team with a knock of 66.&nbsp;

An unbeaten half-century from Mosaddek Hossain took Bangladesh over the line in the finals.&nbsp;

Rhodes praised Sarkar`s consistency over the past few months and hopes that people will now get off his back.&nbsp;

"He has been a revelation since he hit that hundred and double-hundred in the DPL [Dhaka Premier League, Bangladesh`s premier List A competition, but he also gets some rough days from people," Rhodes said.&nbsp;

"So it`s just nice to see him carrying on that form, and I hope people would get off his back a little bit because he is a wonderful player. We support him and back him. But not everyone always does that," he added.&nbsp;

Bangladesh after winning the Tri-nation series, will now look to carry this winning momentum in the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

Bangladesh will play against Pakistan and India in the warm-ups before opening its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 2 at The Oval.&nbsp;

Bangladesh head coach, Steve Rodes on Tuesday said that the team`s recent success in the Tri-nation series proves that the team is stronger within the squad and there`s more to the side than just their big five players.

Bangladesh head coach, Steve Rodes on Tuesday said that the team`s recent success in the Tri-nation series proves that the team is stronger within the squad and there`s more to the side than just their big five players. "There have been two or three guys who have played special innings. If you think of Mosaddek, for example, he is a guy now who is going to keep everybody on their toes. That`s the depth of the squad and he might not play, and if he doesn`t, then what a great position we have. It gives us the confidence that we can win some big games as well," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Rhodes as saying. "That means Bangladesh is stronger within the squad, and that`s what we want as we want more depth, and if we get that depth, then people will stop talking about the big five," he added. Bangladesh defeated West Indies in the finals of the Tri-nation series on Friday, May 17. In the match, Bangladesh was without their star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan as he was ruled out of the game due to a side strain. Their other key players like Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah played secondary roles in the run-chase. Chasing a score of 210 in 24 overs, Soumya Sarkar top-scored for the team with a knock of 66. An unbeaten half-century from Mosaddek Hossain took Bangladesh over the line in the finals. Rhodes praised Sarkar`s consistency over the past few months and hopes that people will now get off his back. "He has been a revelation since he hit that hundred and double-hundred in the DPL [Dhaka Premier League, Bangladesh`s premier List A competition, but he also gets some rough days from people," Rhodes said. "So it`s just nice to see him carrying on that form, and I hope people would get off his back a little bit because he is a wonderful player. We support him and back him. But not everyone always does that," he added. Bangladesh after winning the Tri-nation series, will now look to carry this winning momentum in the upcoming World Cup. Bangladesh will play against Pakistan and India in the warm-ups before opening its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 2 at The Oval.

'Bangladesh is stronger within the squad': Coach Steve Rhodes

Jofra Archer's late bid for a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#england-211485">England's 15-man squad for the tournament</a> announced Tuesday.

Barbados-born Archer only became qualified for England in March and has played just three one-day internationals.

He edged out left-arm quick David Willey, a veteran of 46 ODIs, after both pacemen featured during England's 4-0 series win at home to Pakistan which concluded Sunday.

There was no place also in a squad again captained by Eoin Morgan for back-up spinner and batsman Joe Denly, with Hampshire slow left-arm Liam Dawson -- who did not feature against Pakistan -- recalled as cover for Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali.

James Vince came in for Alex Hales after England decided against picking the Nottinghamshire batsman following a ban for recreational drug use.

England, the&nbsp;world's top-ranked ODI side, are bidding to win the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;for the first time.

They launch the tournament against South Africa at The Oval on May 30.

England&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;squad:

Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Jofra Archer's late bid for a World Cup place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts England's 15-man squad for the tournament announced Tuesday.

Jofra Archer's late bid for a World Cup place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts England's 15-man squad for the tournament announced Tuesday. Barbados-born Archer only became qualified for England in March and has played just three one-day internationals. He edged out left-arm quick David Willey, a veteran of 46 ODIs, after both pacemen featured during England's 4-0 series win at home to Pakistan which concluded Sunday. There was no place also in a squad again captained by Eoin Morgan for back-up spinner and batsman Joe Denly, with Hampshire slow left-arm Liam Dawson -- who did not feature against Pakistan -- recalled as cover for Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali. James Vince came in for Alex Hales after England decided against picking the Nottinghamshire batsman following a ban for recreational drug use. England, the world's top-ranked ODI side, are bidding to win the World Cup for the first time. They launch the tournament against South Africa at The Oval on May 30. England World Cup squad: Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Jofra Archer in England's World Cup squad as David Willey and Joe Denly miss out

Australia's cricketers in front of Ricky Ponting are "like eight-year-old girls around Justin Bieber", feels the team's World Cup skipper Aaron Finch about the batting great, whose mere presence gives them a fillip.

In February, Ponting was appointed as an assistant coach for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#australia-211477">Australia's World Cup campaign</a>, specifically working with the limited overs batsmen.

Ponting has previously worked short-term with Australia's ODI and Twenty20 squads.

"The boys all want to impress 'Punter'," Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au.

"Everyone wants to impress Punter, you should see them - it's like eight-year-old girls around Justin Bieber when Punter's around the changeroom," he said, drawing comparisons between Ponting and the famous Canadian singer-songwriter.

"It's embarrassing, but it's great," Finch said of the legend who won the World Cup three times including twice as captain.

After a tough series at home against India, Australia turned things around and registered victories in India and against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Finch played his part in the revival of fortunes, forming a fine opening partnership with Usman Khwaja.

Since making a drought-breaking 93 against India at Ranchi, Finch had three big scores and his team eight consecutive wins.

"That was really exciting for me, it meant so much to see how happy others were for me to get some runs," he said.

"The lessons that I learned and the support that I got from players and everyone was unbelievable, and it really makes you think about the care that there is for the individual player."

Finch admitted there were "a few scars" noticeable among the members of the ODI outfit which had been involved in the preceding South Africa Test campaign that was marred by the ball-tampering saga, and that it took the new-look squad some time to find its feet.&nbsp;

Australia's cricketers in front of Ricky Ponting are "like eight-year-old girls around Justin Bieber", feels the team's World Cup skipper Aaron Finch about the batting great, whose mere presence gives them a fillip.

Australia's cricketers in front of Ricky Ponting are "like eight-year-old girls around Justin Bieber", feels the team's World Cup skipper Aaron Finch about the batting great, whose mere presence gives them a fillip. In February, Ponting was appointed as an assistant coach for Australia's World Cup campaign, specifically working with the limited overs batsmen. Ponting has previously worked short-term with Australia's ODI and Twenty20 squads. "The boys all want to impress 'Punter'," Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au. "Everyone wants to impress Punter, you should see them - it's like eight-year-old girls around Justin Bieber when Punter's around the changeroom," he said, drawing comparisons between Ponting and the famous Canadian singer-songwriter. "It's embarrassing, but it's great," Finch said of the legend who won the World Cup three times including twice as captain. After a tough series at home against India, Australia turned things around and registered victories in India and against Pakistan. Finch played his part in the revival of fortunes, forming a fine opening partnership with Usman Khwaja. Since making a drought-breaking 93 against India at Ranchi, Finch had three big scores and his team eight consecutive wins. "That was really exciting for me, it meant so much to see how happy others were for me to get some runs," he said. "The lessons that I learned and the support that I got from players and everyone was unbelievable, and it really makes you think about the care that there is for the individual player." Finch admitted there were "a few scars" noticeable among the members of the ODI outfit which had been involved in the preceding South Africa Test campaign that was marred by the ball-tampering saga, and that it took the new-look squad some time to find its feet.

In Ponting's presence, Australian players are like 8-year-old girls around Justin Bieber: Aaron Finch