<p>West Indies captain Jason Holder says he accepts the underdogs status ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a> match against Bangladesh on Monday but played down the significance of their recent run of poor results against the subcontinent side.</p>

<p>Bangladesh and West Indies have played each other nine times since the 2015 World Cup, and the Asian side has emerged victorious in seven occasions, including three wins in the tri-nation tournament held in Ireland last month.</p>

<p>"If you want to put us in the underdog category, fair enough," Holder told a news conference on Sunday.</p>

<p>"We've played them quite a bit in the past and they've got the better of us, but it's a different occasion and there's lots at stake, so we're all up for it.</p>

<p>"It's a challenge against Bangladesh, so we just want to get over them and move forward."</p>

<p>Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza hinted at targeting West Indies with his spin bowling options, despite the short boundaries at Taunton's County Ground.</p>

<p>The off-spin of Mehidy Hasan, who has five wickets in three matches so far in the tournament, could come in handy against a Windies top order packed with left-handers.</p>

<p>"It's a very important match for us, especially losing few points in the last three matches," Mashrafe said.</p>

<p>"I think our bowling has been fantastic against them in the last two-three series we played.</p>

<p>"Obviously the top five West Indies batsmen are left-handers, and Mehidy bowled against them really well too."</p>

<p>A defeat for West Indies or Bangladesh could further hamper their chances of making it to the semi-final stage of the tournament, with both teams currently locked at three points each in their four matches.</p>


West Indies captain Jason Holder says he accepts the underdogs status ahead of their World Cup match against Bangladesh on Monday but played down the significance of their recent run of poor results against the subcontinent side.

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he accepts the underdogs status ahead of their World Cup match against Bangladesh on Monday but played down the significance of their recent run of poor results against the subcontinent side. Bangladesh and West Indies have played each other nine times since the 2015 World Cup, and the Asian side has emerged victorious in seven occasions, including three wins in the tri-nation tournament held in Ireland last month. "If you want to put us in the underdog category, fair enough," Holder told a news conference on Sunday. "We've played them quite a bit in the past and they've got the better of us, but it's a different occasion and there's lots at stake, so we're all up for it. "It's a challenge against Bangladesh, so we just want to get over them and move forward." Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza hinted at targeting West Indies with his spin bowling options, despite the short boundaries at Taunton's County Ground. The off-spin of Mehidy Hasan, who has five wickets in three matches so far in the tournament, could come in handy against a Windies top order packed with left-handers. "It's a very important match for us, especially losing few points in the last three matches," Mashrafe said. "I think our bowling has been fantastic against them in the last two-three series we played. "Obviously the top five West Indies batsmen are left-handers, and Mehidy bowled against them really well too." A defeat for West Indies or Bangladesh could further hamper their chances of making it to the semi-final stage of the tournament, with both teams currently locked at three points each in their four matches.

Windies skipper Jason Holder doesn't mind 'underdogs' tag ahead of Bangladesh clash

<p>Indian Border Security Force (BSF) personnel enjoyed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-22-india-vs-pakistan-227539">India vs Pakistan World Cup</a> match at the BSF headquarters in Khasa, which is on the outskirts of Amritsar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the pictures, the soldiers can be seen dancing and playing musical instruments while watching the mega cricket clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India defeated Pakistan by 89 runs at the World Cup at Old Trafford on Sunday, boosting their chances of a semi-final spot while pushing their Asian rivals closer to elimination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India made 336-5 with Rohit Sharma hitting 140 before Pakistan finished on 212-6 to be well short of a rain-adjusted total.</p>

<p>Pakistan have never beaten India in World Cup history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the match, Indian fans were seen performing religious rituals at various places, including the River Ganges, praying for their team's continued dominance over their neighbours at the World Cup stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/best-moments-from-indias-innings-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-match-227694">Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match</a></strong></p>

<p>Watching live at the ground, fans enthusiasm undimmed by the threat of rain looming over this intriguing clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India vs Pakistan draws a massive global audience as over one billion are expected to watch it on television.</p>

<p>Organisers received nearly 800,000 applications for tickets at the 23,000-capacity stadium in the northern English city to watch the former champions who play each other only in global tournaments because of their soured political relations.</p>

<p><em>(Updated with match result)</em></p>


Indian Border Security Force (BSF) personnel enjoyed India vs Pakistan World Cup match at the BSF headquarters in Khasa, which is on the outskirts of Amritsar. In the pictures, the soldiers can be seen dancing and playing musical instruments while watching the mega cricket clash.

Indian Border Security Force (BSF) personnel enjoyed India vs Pakistan World Cup match at the BSF headquarters in Khasa, which is on the outskirts of Amritsar. In the pictures, the soldiers can be seen dancing and playing musical instruments while watching the mega cricket clash. India defeated Pakistan by 89 runs at the World Cup at Old Trafford on Sunday, boosting their chances of a semi-final spot while pushing their Asian rivals closer to elimination. India made 336-5 with Rohit Sharma hitting 140 before Pakistan finished on 212-6 to be well short of a rain-adjusted total. Pakistan have never beaten India in World Cup history. Ahead of the match, Indian fans were seen performing religious rituals at various places, including the River Ganges, praying for their team's continued dominance over their neighbours at the World Cup stage. In pics: Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match Watching live at the ground, fans enthusiasm undimmed by the threat of rain looming over this intriguing clash. India vs Pakistan draws a massive global audience as over one billion are expected to watch it on television. Organisers received nearly 800,000 applications for tickets at the 23,000-capacity stadium in the northern English city to watch the former champions who play each other only in global tournaments because of their soured political relations. (Updated with match result)

BSF personnel dance and enjoy during India vs Pakistan World Cup clash

<p>Pakistan legend Waqar Younis on Monday claimed India are superior to his former team because Virat Kohli's men intimidate their arch rivals.</p>

<p>Sarfaraz Ahmed's side were no match India, who cruised to an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-by-89-runs-at-world-cup-227784">89-run win via the DLS</a> method in Sunday's World Cup clash in Manchester.</p>

<p>Indian opener Rohit Sharma led the demolition with his 140 off 113 deliveries to pile on 336 for five in 50 overs.</p>

<p>Pakistan could only muster 212-6 in their revised target of 302 in 40 overs in the rain-affected match.</p>

<p>Waqar believes Pakistan struggled to cope with the pressure put on them by India, who excel at team-play while his country rely too much on individuals.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/best-moments-from-indias-innings-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-match-227694">Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match</a></strong></p>

<p>"In the last few years, there's been a massive difference India and Pakistan - and again it showed at Old Trafford on Sunday," Waqar said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Pakistan are still trying to rely on talent alone, while with India it's all about teamwork. They all know their roles, and they execute them superbly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We had good sides in the 1990s, but now I think this India team intimidates Pakistan."</p>

<p>Sharma, who scored his second hundred of the competition, put on 136 runs for the opening wicket with KL Rahul to see off the initial threat from Pakistan quick Mohammad Amir.</p>

<p>The rest of the bowling lacked sting to cause any trouble to the strong Indian batting line up.</p>

<p>Rahul made a measured 57 while skipper Virat Kohli scored 77 off 65 deliveries.</p>

<p>"India have very classy batsmen, let's not forget. They wait for the bad ball, and didn't have to do much against the Pakistan attack given the inconsistency in the length," said Waqar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Mohammad Amir was the only one who created a bit of pressure by bowling a good length," the cricketer-turned-commentator said.</p>

<p>Waqar said that there is "no real space" for veteran paceman Wahab Riaz, who leaked 71 runs in his 10 overs for his one wicket,and called for the inclusion of promising teenage quick Mohammad Hasnain.</p>

<p>Pakistan have to win their last four group games to have any chance of making the semi-finals of the round-robin event, with South Africa next up on June 23.</p>


Pakistan legend Waqar Younis on Monday claimed India are superior to his former team because Virat Kohli's men intimidate their arch rivals. Sarfaraz Ahmed's side were no match India, who cruised to an 89-run win via the DLS method in Sunday's World Cup clash in Manchester.

Pakistan legend Waqar Younis on Monday claimed India are superior to his former team because Virat Kohli's men intimidate their arch rivals. Sarfaraz Ahmed's side were no match India, who cruised to an 89-run win via the DLS method in Sunday's World Cup clash in Manchester. Indian opener Rohit Sharma led the demolition with his 140 off 113 deliveries to pile on 336 for five in 50 overs. Pakistan could only muster 212-6 in their revised target of 302 in 40 overs in the rain-affected match. Waqar believes Pakistan struggled to cope with the pressure put on them by India, who excel at team-play while his country rely too much on individuals. In pics: Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match "In the last few years, there's been a massive difference India and Pakistan - and again it showed at Old Trafford on Sunday," Waqar said. "Pakistan are still trying to rely on talent alone, while with India it's all about teamwork. They all know their roles, and they execute them superbly. "We had good sides in the 1990s, but now I think this India team intimidates Pakistan." Sharma, who scored his second hundred of the competition, put on 136 runs for the opening wicket with KL Rahul to see off the initial threat from Pakistan quick Mohammad Amir. The rest of the bowling lacked sting to cause any trouble to the strong Indian batting line up. Rahul made a measured 57 while skipper Virat Kohli scored 77 off 65 deliveries. "India have very classy batsmen, let's not forget. They wait for the bad ball, and didn't have to do much against the Pakistan attack given the inconsistency in the length," said Waqar. "Mohammad Amir was the only one who created a bit of pressure by bowling a good length," the cricketer-turned-commentator said. Waqar said that there is "no real space" for veteran paceman Wahab Riaz, who leaked 71 runs in his 10 overs for his one wicket,and called for the inclusion of promising teenage quick Mohammad Hasnain. Pakistan have to win their last four group games to have any chance of making the semi-finals of the round-robin event, with South Africa next up on June 23.

Pakistan intimidated by India's excellence: Waqar Younis

<p>Shakib Al Hasan's brilliant century inspired Bangladesh's bid for the second highest successful <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-23-west-indies-vs-bangladesh-227892">run chase in World Cup history against the West Indies</a> on Monday.</p>

<p>Needing 322 to claim their second win of the tournament, Bangladesh were powering towards victory as they repelled the West Indies' barrage of bouncers to reach 248-3 after 34 overs at Taunton.</p>

<p>Shakib was unbeaten with 13 fours in his 83-ball innings, while Liton Das was 47 not out from 41 deliveries.</p>

<p>Only once previously have Bangladesh managed 322 batting second, against Scotland in 2015, while the highest chase so far in this World Cup was New Zealand's 248 against Bangladesh.</p>

<p>But the Tigers had already posted 330 in the first innings of their win over South Africa earlier in the competition and they were well on course to make history against the West Indies.</p>

<p>Opener Tamim Iqbal paved the way in the chase with six fours in his 53-ball innings of 48 before being superbly run out by Sheldon Cottrell.</p>

<p>Tamim, who hit over 30 for the first time in the tournament, and Soumya Sarkar had taken the score to 50 in the ninth over.</p>

<p>But Soumya was dismissed for 29 when he scooped Andre Russell to Chris Gayle in the slips.</p>

<p>There were huge cheers from the Bangladesh fans around the ground when Shakib became just the second player to score 6,000 career ODI runs for the Tigers.</p>

<p>After reaching his fifth successive ODI 50, Shakib -- who scored 121 against England earlier in the tournament -- took command with a scintillating innings that climaxed when he stroked a boundary to reach his century.</p>

<p>Earlier, Shai Hope's 96 and the joint-fastest fifty of the tournament from Shimron Hetmyer helped them reach 321-8.</p>

<p>The Windies couldn't be contained in the second half of the innings as Hope laid the foundations for his country's fourth highest World Cup score with a resolute 121-ball innings.</p>

<p>Hitting around Hope, Evin Lewis made 70 from 67 balls before Hetmyer smashed 50 in 26 balls, featuring four fours and three sixes.</p>

<p><strong>Match in numbers:</strong></p>
<img alt="Match 23" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e661ff5-b763-4717-a592-8bc869a89a9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2023.jpg" />
<p><strong>Quick-fire Hetmyer</strong></p>

<p>It was the equal fastest 50 in this year's tournament and the third quickest by a West Indies batsman in World Cup history.</p>

<p>West Indies opener Gayle was expected to wreak havoc in the tournament, but the big-hitting 39-year-old has only managed scores of 50, 21 and 36.</p>

<p>Once again Gayle looked out of sorts and he went 12 balls without scoring before dangling his bat limply at Mohammad Saifuddin's seaming delivery on the 13th, with the edge held low down by wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim.</p>

<p>Lewis kept grinding away and reached his first World Cup fifty from 58 balls.</p>

<p>Lewis's partnership of 116 with Hope was the West Indies' first century stand of the World Cup.</p>

<p>A towering six from Nicholas Pooran off Mehidy Hasan Miraz left a hole in the roof of one of the Taunton stands.</p>

<p>But Pooran, on 25 from 30 balls, perished when he tried to slog-sweep Shakib and miscued to Soumya Sarkar at long-on.</p>

<p>The urgency was finally injected into the innings, Hetmyer followed Pooran's gung-ho example with a sublime display of hitting.</p>

<p>Blasting boundaries to all parts of the ground, Hetmyer passed 1,000 ODI runs in his 27th innings.</p>

<p>His flamboyant display was curtailed when he holed out off Mustafizur Rahman.</p>

<p>Skipper Jason Holder's 33 from 15 balls -- including four fours and two sixes -- filled in admirably for Hetmyer to ensure the Windies went past 300.</p>

<p>Bangladesh have had the upper hand against the West Indies in recent meetings, winning six of the last seven, including all three games in the Tri-nation series in Ireland last month.</p>

<p>Both the West Indies and Bangladesh have won one of their four group matches, with two defeats and one no result apiece.</p>


Shakib Al Hasan's brilliant century inspired Bangladesh's bid for the second highest successful run chase in World Cup history against the West Indies on Monday.

Shakib Al Hasan's brilliant century inspired Bangladesh's bid for the second highest successful run chase in World Cup history against the West Indies on Monday. Needing 322 to claim their second win of the tournament, Bangladesh were powering towards victory as they repelled the West Indies' barrage of bouncers to reach 248-3 after 34 overs at Taunton. Shakib was unbeaten with 13 fours in his 83-ball innings, while Liton Das was 47 not out from 41 deliveries. Only once previously have Bangladesh managed 322 batting second, against Scotland in 2015, while the highest chase so far in this World Cup was New Zealand's 248 against Bangladesh. But the Tigers had already posted 330 in the first innings of their win over South Africa earlier in the competition and they were well on course to make history against the West Indies. Opener Tamim Iqbal paved the way in the chase with six fours in his 53-ball innings of 48 before being superbly run out by Sheldon Cottrell. Tamim, who hit over 30 for the first time in the tournament, and Soumya Sarkar had taken the score to 50 in the ninth over. But Soumya was dismissed for 29 when he scooped Andre Russell to Chris Gayle in the slips. There were huge cheers from the Bangladesh fans around the ground when Shakib became just the second player to score 6,000 career ODI runs for the Tigers. After reaching his fifth successive ODI 50, Shakib -- who scored 121 against England earlier in the tournament -- took command with a scintillating innings that climaxed when he stroked a boundary to reach his century. Earlier, Shai Hope's 96 and the joint-fastest fifty of the tournament from Shimron Hetmyer helped them reach 321-8. The Windies couldn't be contained in the second half of the innings as Hope laid the foundations for his country's fourth highest World Cup score with a resolute 121-ball innings. Hitting around Hope, Evin Lewis made 70 from 67 balls before Hetmyer smashed 50 in 26 balls, featuring four fours and three sixes. Match in numbers: Quick-fire Hetmyer It was the equal fastest 50 in this year's tournament and the third quickest by a West Indies batsman in World Cup history. West Indies opener Gayle was expected to wreak havoc in the tournament, but the big-hitting 39-year-old has only managed scores of 50, 21 and 36. Once again Gayle looked out of sorts and he went 12 balls without scoring before dangling his bat limply at Mohammad Saifuddin's seaming delivery on the 13th, with the edge held low down by wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim. Lewis kept grinding away and reached his first World Cup fifty from 58 balls. Lewis's partnership of 116 with Hope was the West Indies' first century stand of the World Cup. A towering six from Nicholas Pooran off Mehidy Hasan Miraz left a hole in the roof of one of the Taunton stands. But Pooran, on 25 from 30 balls, perished when he tried to slog-sweep Shakib and miscued to Soumya Sarkar at long-on. The urgency was finally injected into the innings, Hetmyer followed Pooran's gung-ho example with a sublime display of hitting. Blasting boundaries to all parts of the ground, Hetmyer passed 1,000 ODI runs in his 27th innings. His flamboyant display was curtailed when he holed out off Mustafizur Rahman. Skipper Jason Holder's 33 from 15 balls -- including four fours and two sixes -- filled in admirably for Hetmyer to ensure the Windies went past 300. Bangladesh have had the upper hand against the West Indies in recent meetings, winning six of the last seven, including all three games in the Tri-nation series in Ireland last month. Both the West Indies and Bangladesh have won one of their four group matches, with two defeats and one no result apiece.

Shakib ton anchors Bangladesh's World Cup run chase against West Indies

<p>Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth says Virat Kohli side's are having a demoralising effect on their World Cup opponents.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-by-89-runs-at-world-cup-227784">India beat Pakistan by 89 runs via DLS</a> method in Manchester on Sunday to extend their blistering start to the World Cup.</p>

<p>Two-time champions India, among the favourites to lift the World Cup along with England and Australia, have three wins and a no result from their four matches and look set for a semi-final place.</p>

<p>Srikkanth has been impressed by India's form and claims their powerful displays are torturing opponents in the same way the great West Indies' team of the 1970s used to have teams beaten mentally before the match even started.</p>

<p>"It is a little like England, at the moment everything seems to be going right (for India) and the fans should be very happy," Srikkanth said.</p>

<p>"This is starting to feel a little like the West Indian teams of the 1970s, where the opposition would start the game with a psychological disadvantage.</p>

<p>"Teams are worried about facing India and how they will cope with them, which immediately puts them on the back foot."</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/best-moments-from-indias-innings-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-match-227694">Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indias-new-master-blaster-rohit-sharma-beats-dhoni-tendulkar-as-records-tumble-227669">India's new master blaster Rohit Sharma beats Dhoni, Tendulkar as records tumble</a></strong></p>

<p>The West Indies, led by Clive Lloyd, was a dominant force when they won the first two editions of the World Cup in 1975 and 1979.</p>

<p>Kapil Dev's India shocked the West Indies in the 1983 World Cup final to be crowned champions at Lord's -- a moment that revolutionised Indian cricket.</p>

<p>India underlined their current class against Pakistan on Sunday, with opener Rohit Sharma leading the charge with 140 in their total of 336-5.</p>

<p>'Responsible Rahul'&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan could only manage 212-6 while chasing a revised target of 302 in 40 overs to go down without a fight.</p>

<p>"It felt like there was more pressure on Pakistan, who had built this up to be a huge game, whereas India and Rohit, in particular, were able to treat it like any other match," Srikkanth said.</p>

<p>"That is vital in an ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. You cannot put too much pressure on yourself because of who the opposition is."</p>

<p>Sharma's 136-run opening stand with KL Rahul, who scored a measured 57 after being slotted in as opener in place of the injured Shikhar Dhawan, stood out in the big win.</p>

<p>Srikkanth said the half-century from Rahul, who helped see off a threatening opening spell from paceman Mohammad Amir, should not be underestimated.</p>

<p>"Everyone knows how good a batsman Rohit Sharma is but for me the more important innings against Pakistan was from KL Rahul," Srikkanth said.</p>

<p>"Going into the game, the biggest question mark about this India team was how they would cope without Shikhar Dhawan (who remains with the squad under medical observation).</p>

<p>"The fact the top three all got runs, that Sharma and Rahul put on more than a hundred for the first wicket and that Virat Kohli got more runs, is huge for India going forward in the tournament."</p>

<p>Kohli made 77 off 65 deliveries, his innings laced with seven boundaries before being caught behind off Amir.</p>

<p>India next take on minnows Afghanistan in Southampton on June 22.</p>


Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth says Virat Kohli side's are having a demoralising effect on their World Cup opponents. India beat Pakistan by 89 runs via DLS method in Manchester on Sunday to extend their blistering start to the World Cup.

Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth says Virat Kohli side's are having a demoralising effect on their World Cup opponents. India beat Pakistan by 89 runs via DLS method in Manchester on Sunday to extend their blistering start to the World Cup. Two-time champions India, among the favourites to lift the World Cup along with England and Australia, have three wins and a no result from their four matches and look set for a semi-final place. Srikkanth has been impressed by India's form and claims their powerful displays are torturing opponents in the same way the great West Indies' team of the 1970s used to have teams beaten mentally before the match even started. "It is a little like England, at the moment everything seems to be going right (for India) and the fans should be very happy," Srikkanth said. "This is starting to feel a little like the West Indian teams of the 1970s, where the opposition would start the game with a psychological disadvantage. "Teams are worried about facing India and how they will cope with them, which immediately puts them on the back foot." In pics: Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match Read more: India's new master blaster Rohit Sharma beats Dhoni, Tendulkar as records tumble The West Indies, led by Clive Lloyd, was a dominant force when they won the first two editions of the World Cup in 1975 and 1979. Kapil Dev's India shocked the West Indies in the 1983 World Cup final to be crowned champions at Lord's -- a moment that revolutionised Indian cricket. India underlined their current class against Pakistan on Sunday, with opener Rohit Sharma leading the charge with 140 in their total of 336-5. 'Responsible Rahul' Pakistan could only manage 212-6 while chasing a revised target of 302 in 40 overs to go down without a fight. "It felt like there was more pressure on Pakistan, who had built this up to be a huge game, whereas India and Rohit, in particular, were able to treat it like any other match," Srikkanth said. "That is vital in an ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. You cannot put too much pressure on yourself because of who the opposition is." Sharma's 136-run opening stand with KL Rahul, who scored a measured 57 after being slotted in as opener in place of the injured Shikhar Dhawan, stood out in the big win. Srikkanth said the half-century from Rahul, who helped see off a threatening opening spell from paceman Mohammad Amir, should not be underestimated. "Everyone knows how good a batsman Rohit Sharma is but for me the more important innings against Pakistan was from KL Rahul," Srikkanth said. "Going into the game, the biggest question mark about this India team was how they would cope without Shikhar Dhawan (who remains with the squad under medical observation). "The fact the top three all got runs, that Sharma and Rahul put on more than a hundred for the first wicket and that Virat Kohli got more runs, is huge for India going forward in the tournament." Kohli made 77 off 65 deliveries, his innings laced with seven boundaries before being caught behind off Amir. India next take on minnows Afghanistan in Southampton on June 22.

Teams are worried about facing India like Lloyd's West Indies, says Srikkanth

<p>England opener Jason Roy will miss at least two World Cup games due to a hamstring injury but captain Eoin Morgan is bullish about overcoming a back spasm and playing against Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Roy suffered a hamstring tear in Friday's win over West Indies and Morgan confirmed James Vince, who had a lengthy net session at Old Trafford on Monday, will replace the opener on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"I certainly believe Jason will play again in this tournament," Morgan told reporters.</p>

<p>"At the moment he's going to be assessed continuously over the course of the next week. He's out of the next two games. So we'll see how he pulls up after that."</p>

<p>Roy made a superb 153 against Bangladesh in Cardiff but his replacement as opener Joe Root impressed with an unbeaten century which sealed an eight-wicket win for the hosts.</p>

<p>The 26-year-old Roy will miss the matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka but Morgan is confident he will be back before the June 30 game against India.</p>

<p>"As we know with injuries, people respond differently to treatment and medication, so it's a matter of giving him enough time to allow him to get himself back into the tournament," Morgan said.</p>

<p>Morgan had better news about his own health after suffering the back spasm in the match against West Indies after which he delivered his news conference standing up.</p>

<p>"Yeah, drastically improved. I've had extensive treatment and medication the last two days, which have helped me no end," said the 32-year-old.</p>

<p>"I've had a small hit in the nets, and hopefully be fit to play in the morning. It will all depend on how I pull up but aiming to play tomorrow."</p>

<p>England are fourth in the table with six points from four matches and will be overwhelming favourites against bottom-placed Afghanistan who have lost all four games.</p>

<p>Morgan refused to be complacent, though, against a spin-heavy Afghanistan.</p>

<p>"It's probably their strongest component as a team. It's a challenge that we're going to have to overcome," Morgan said.</p>

<p>"Pretty much every time we play against an Asian team, that's the case.</p>

<p>"You look over at where they are practising. They are practising against quicks, and look over at our nets and we're practising against spin. That's just a challenge that both sides come up against."</p>


England opener Jason Roy will miss at least two World Cup games due to a hamstring injury but captain Eoin Morgan is bullish about overcoming a back spasm and playing against Afghanistan.

England opener Jason Roy will miss at least two World Cup games due to a hamstring injury but captain Eoin Morgan is bullish about overcoming a back spasm and playing against Afghanistan. Roy suffered a hamstring tear in Friday's win over West Indies and Morgan confirmed James Vince, who had a lengthy net session at Old Trafford on Monday, will replace the opener on Tuesday. "I certainly believe Jason will play again in this tournament," Morgan told reporters. "At the moment he's going to be assessed continuously over the course of the next week. He's out of the next two games. So we'll see how he pulls up after that." Roy made a superb 153 against Bangladesh in Cardiff but his replacement as opener Joe Root impressed with an unbeaten century which sealed an eight-wicket win for the hosts. The 26-year-old Roy will miss the matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka but Morgan is confident he will be back before the June 30 game against India. "As we know with injuries, people respond differently to treatment and medication, so it's a matter of giving him enough time to allow him to get himself back into the tournament," Morgan said. Morgan had better news about his own health after suffering the back spasm in the match against West Indies after which he delivered his news conference standing up. "Yeah, drastically improved. I've had extensive treatment and medication the last two days, which have helped me no end," said the 32-year-old. "I've had a small hit in the nets, and hopefully be fit to play in the morning. It will all depend on how I pull up but aiming to play tomorrow." England are fourth in the table with six points from four matches and will be overwhelming favourites against bottom-placed Afghanistan who have lost all four games. Morgan refused to be complacent, though, against a spin-heavy Afghanistan. "It's probably their strongest component as a team. It's a challenge that we're going to have to overcome," Morgan said. "Pretty much every time we play against an Asian team, that's the case. "You look over at where they are practising. They are practising against quicks, and look over at our nets and we're practising against spin. That's just a challenge that both sides come up against."

World Cup: England get Eoin Morgan boost but Jason Roy to miss at least two games

Major takeaways from India's historic win over Pakistan in World Cup

<p>Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it.</p>

<p>The 30-yer-old has returned from a ball-tampering scandal with his hunger for runs intact as his three half-centuries in five innings would attest.</p>

<p>The 12-month absence has not diminished Smith's dedication to his craft which took the right-hander to the top of test batting rankings before his exile.</p>

<p>Assistant coach Ricky Ponting, 10 rooms down the hotel corridor, has heard him shadow practising in England and coach Justin Langer said Smith hones his cover drives in shower.</p>

<p>"I don't know how he's spying on me in the shower!" an amused Smith, who relishes long hours in the nets, told reporters.</p>

<p>"Yeah, I'm known to play a few shots here and there.</p>

<p>"I always have a bat in my room and Ricky was actually rooming about ten rooms up from me the other day and said, 'Were you batting at seven o'clock this morning?'</p>

<p>"He could hear me tapping on the ground.</p>

<p>"I said, 'Yeah, I was actually.'"</p>

<p>The team management has asked Smith to consider toning down his routine which may exhaust the top order bulwark who will play a key role in Australia's title defence.</p>

<p>Smith said nine years of international cricket had taught him when to relax.</p>

<p>"It's been spoken about a little bit, but I think at the same time you've got to trust people's preparation," he said.</p>

<p>"I've been around quite a while now and I've played a lot of cricket and you've got to trust the individual's preparation and what they are trying to do.</p>

<p>"It's one thing that's I guess learned with experience and I'm reasonably experienced now and I've learned a bit over the last couple of years to sometimes just take the foot off the pedal in the nets and save myself up a little bit."</p>

<p>Australia are seeking their fifth win in six matches when they take on Bangladesh at Trent Bridge on Thursday.</p>


Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it.

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it. The 30-yer-old has returned from a ball-tampering scandal with his hunger for runs intact as his three half-centuries in five innings would attest. The 12-month absence has not diminished Smith's dedication to his craft which took the right-hander to the top of test batting rankings before his exile. Assistant coach Ricky Ponting, 10 rooms down the hotel corridor, has heard him shadow practising in England and coach Justin Langer said Smith hones his cover drives in shower. "I don't know how he's spying on me in the shower!" an amused Smith, who relishes long hours in the nets, told reporters. "Yeah, I'm known to play a few shots here and there. "I always have a bat in my room and Ricky was actually rooming about ten rooms up from me the other day and said, 'Were you batting at seven o'clock this morning?' "He could hear me tapping on the ground. "I said, 'Yeah, I was actually.'" The team management has asked Smith to consider toning down his routine which may exhaust the top order bulwark who will play a key role in Australia's title defence. Smith said nine years of international cricket had taught him when to relax. "It's been spoken about a little bit, but I think at the same time you've got to trust people's preparation," he said. "I've been around quite a while now and I've played a lot of cricket and you've got to trust the individual's preparation and what they are trying to do. "It's one thing that's I guess learned with experience and I'm reasonably experienced now and I've learned a bit over the last couple of years to sometimes just take the foot off the pedal in the nets and save myself up a little bit." Australia are seeking their fifth win in six matches when they take on Bangladesh at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Australia's Steve Smith practises cover drives in shower

<p>It was a perfect Sunday for cricket fans across the subcontinent as India and Pakistan played their first match at the ongoing Cricket World Cup. The excitement at the stadium was palpable as fans excitedly cheered for their respective teams. The presence of Ranveer Singh at the stadium just added more fun for the Indian fans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-turns-commentator-during-high-profile-india-vs-pakistan-world-cup-match-227823">Singh, who made a surprise entry at the stadium,</a> even tried his hand in cricket commentary as he cheered for team India. As India register its seventh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-by-89-runs-at-world-cup-227784">World Cup victory over their arch-rivals Pakistan</a> at Old Trafford in Manchester, Singh personally went down to the ground to wish and congratulate the team's captain, Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video that's been doing the rounds of social media shows Ranveer walking up to Virat, wishing him and giving him a hug post the match. Watching this warm gesture, cricket statistician Mazher Arshad tweeted, "Ranveer Singh literally bowed down before Virat Kohli and then gives him a congratulatory hug. Don't think India has produced a more love-able cricketer than Kohli. Deserves to win everything."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ranveer Singh literally bowed down before Virat Kohli and then gives him a congratulatory hug. Don't think India has produced a more love-able cricketer than Kohli. Deserves to win everything. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvPak</a></p>
— Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) <a href="https://twitter.com/MazherArshad/status/1140331152865144832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Arshad was not the only one gushing over the video. There were other fans too who could not stop gushing over the two stars.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I GOT IT. I GOT THE VIDEO. AH, LOOK AT THEM. This is like dream turning into reality. VIRAT KOHLI AND RANVEER HUGGING EACH OTHER AND HAVING A CONVERSATION. I might collapse. This is too much happiness for me. <a href="https://t.co/JuEwQRZDlk">pic.twitter.com/JuEwQRZDlk</a></p>
— V. ◟̽◞̽ (@_heavenlyInsane) <a href="https://twitter.com/_heavenlyInsane/status/1140335960854413312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">📷| Ranveer Singh Met and Hugged <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> After <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> Match at old Trafford , today ♥️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2019</a><br />
<br />
_<br />
Awww♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ <a href="https://t.co/BcFqWmve1D">pic.twitter.com/BcFqWmve1D</a></p>
— Ranveer Singh TB (@Ranveertbt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ranveertbt/status/1140335400873074688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ranveer will soon be seen in ‘83’, a film on India’s first cricket world cup victory in 1983 under the captaincy of Kapil Dev (played by Singh). The film will also see Ranveer get together with real-life wife Deepika Padukone, first time after marriage. The real couple will play reel couple. Read in detail about Deepika’s role in the film and how much money she is charging for it.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


It was a perfect Sunday for cricket fans across the subcontinent as India and Pakistan played their first match at the ongoing Cricket World Cup. The excitement at the stadium was palpable as fans excitedly cheered for their respective teams.

It was a perfect Sunday for cricket fans across the subcontinent as India and Pakistan played their first match at the ongoing Cricket World Cup. The excitement at the stadium was palpable as fans excitedly cheered for their respective teams. The presence of Ranveer Singh at the stadium just added more fun for the Indian fans. Singh, who made a surprise entry at the stadium, even tried his hand in cricket commentary as he cheered for team India. As India register its seventh World Cup victory over their arch-rivals Pakistan at Old Trafford in Manchester, Singh personally went down to the ground to wish and congratulate the team's captain, Virat Kohli. A video that's been doing the rounds of social media shows Ranveer walking up to Virat, wishing him and giving him a hug post the match. Watching this warm gesture, cricket statistician Mazher Arshad tweeted, "Ranveer Singh literally bowed down before Virat Kohli and then gives him a congratulatory hug. Don't think India has produced a more love-able cricketer than Kohli. Deserves to win everything." Ranveer Singh literally bowed down before Virat Kohli and then gives him a congratulatory hug. Don't think India has produced a more love-able cricketer than Kohli. Deserves to win everything. #IndvPak — Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) June 16, 2019 × Arshad was not the only one gushing over the video. There were other fans too who could not stop gushing over the two stars. I GOT IT. I GOT THE VIDEO. AH, LOOK AT THEM. This is like dream turning into reality. VIRAT KOHLI AND RANVEER HUGGING EACH OTHER AND HAVING A CONVERSATION. I might collapse. This is too much happiness for me. pic.twitter.com/JuEwQRZDlk — V. ◟̽◞̽ (@_heavenlyInsane) June 16, 2019 × 📷| Ranveer Singh Met and Hugged @imVkohli After #INDvPAK Match at old Trafford , today ♥️ #CWC2019 _ Awww♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ pic.twitter.com/BcFqWmve1D — Ranveer Singh TB (@Ranveertbt) June 16, 2019 × Ranveer will soon be seen in ‘83’, a film on India’s first cricket world cup victory in 1983 under the captaincy of Kapil Dev (played by Singh). The film will also see Ranveer get together with real-life wife Deepika Padukone, first time after marriage. The real couple will play reel couple. Read in detail about Deepika’s role in the film and how much money she is charging for it.

Ranveer Singh hugged Virat Kohli after India's win against Pakistan and Twitter can't stop gushing

<p>South Africa kept alive their slim hopes of&nbsp;reaching the World Cup semi-finals by thumping a poor Afghanistan side by nine wickets on Saturday to record their first win of the tournament.</p>

<p>Afghanistan, who lost the toss in Cardiff, were dismissed for just 125 in 34.1 overs.</p>

<p>Quinton de Kock scored 68 for South Africa as they coasted home in the 28th over.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> half-century from Quinton de Kock, coupled with seven wickets between Imran Tahir and Chris Morris, saw South Africa claim their first win of the tournament over Afghanistan.<br />
<br />
The Proteas now have 3️⃣ points!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAFG</a> SCORECARD ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/1Pwa3jahvz">https://t.co/1Pwa3jahvz</a> <a href="https://t.co/M2tscWSLYR">pic.twitter.com/M2tscWSLYR</a></p>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1139969951731736576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


South Africa kept alive their slim hopes of reaching the World Cup semi-finals by thumping a poor Afghanistan side by nine wickets on Saturday to record their first win of the tournament.

South Africa kept alive their slim hopes of reaching the World Cup semi-finals by thumping a poor Afghanistan side by nine wickets on Saturday to record their first win of the tournament. Afghanistan, who lost the toss in Cardiff, were dismissed for just 125 in 34.1 overs. Quinton de Kock scored 68 for South Africa as they coasted home in the 28th over. A second #CWC19 half-century from Quinton de Kock, coupled with seven wickets between Imran Tahir and Chris Morris, saw South Africa claim their first win of the tournament over Afghanistan. The Proteas now have 3️⃣ points!#SAvAFG SCORECARD ▶️ https://t.co/1Pwa3jahvz pic.twitter.com/M2tscWSLYR — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 15, 2019 ×

South Africa beat Afghanistan by nine wickets in Cricket World Cup

<p>India captain Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to reach the landmark total of 11,000 runs in one day international cricket during Sunday's World Cup match against Pakistan.</p>

<p>Kohli reached the 11,000 mark in 222 innings -- beating the previous record held by compatriot Sachin Tendulkar who took 276 innings to rack up that total.</p>

<p>The Indian skipper was 71 not out when rain stopped play at Old Trafford in the 47th over with India 305-4.</p>

<p>Tendulkar still holds the record for the most career ODI runs with 18,426.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to reach the landmark total of 11,000 runs in one day international cricket during Sunday's World Cup match against Pakistan.

India captain Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to reach the landmark total of 11,000 runs in one day international cricket during Sunday's World Cup match against Pakistan. Kohli reached the 11,000 mark in 222 innings -- beating the previous record held by compatriot Sachin Tendulkar who took 276 innings to rack up that total. The Indian skipper was 71 not out when rain stopped play at Old Trafford in the 47th over with India 305-4. Tendulkar still holds the record for the most career ODI runs with 18,426.

Virat Kohli becomes fastest to reach 11,000 runs mark

Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match

<p>As KL Rahul stole a run from Shadab Khan's third ball in the eighteenth over, India completed a historic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">milestone against Pakistan</a> in the World Cup as the two openers hit a century stand for the first time against their arch rival.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-22-india-vs-pakistan-227539">Follow:&nbsp;Live -&nbsp;INDvPAK</a></p>

<p>Even though Rahul was caught off a Riaz ball in the 24th over, he&nbsp;had done his job giving India a thumping opening stand of 136 runs scoring 57(3 fours and 2 sixes) in 78 balls.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma at the other end was motoring along as the partnership grew, India brought up their first fifty in just 9.6 overs with Rahul contributing 14 and Rohit hitting 37. India brought up their century stand in the 18th over with Rohit Sharma contributing the lion's share scoring 60 and Rahul hitting 37.</p>

<p>Rahul brought up his half-century in just 69 balls, however as he was looking good, he fell to Shadab's delivery hitting a well-pitched ball to covers which landed straight in Babar Azam's hands.</p>

<p>Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/win-toss-and-bat-first-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-suggests-to-sarfaraz-227545">Pakistan won the toss</a> and chose to field&nbsp;in overcast conditions.</p>


As KL Rahul stole a run from Shadab Khan's third ball in the eighteenth over, India completed a historic milestone against Pakistan in the World Cup as the two openers hit a century stand for the first time against their arch rival.

As KL Rahul stole a run from Shadab Khan's third ball in the eighteenth over, India completed a historic milestone against Pakistan in the World Cup as the two openers hit a century stand for the first time against their arch rival. Follow: Live - INDvPAK Even though Rahul was caught off a Riaz ball in the 24th over, he had done his job giving India a thumping opening stand of 136 runs scoring 57(3 fours and 2 sixes) in 78 balls. Rohit Sharma at the other end was motoring along as the partnership grew, India brought up their first fifty in just 9.6 overs with Rahul contributing 14 and Rohit hitting 37. India brought up their century stand in the 18th over with Rohit Sharma contributing the lion's share scoring 60 and Rahul hitting 37. Rahul brought up his half-century in just 69 balls, however as he was looking good, he fell to Shadab's delivery hitting a well-pitched ball to covers which landed straight in Babar Azam's hands. Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and chose to field in overcast conditions.

Milestone men: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul ensure India's maiden century partnership against Pakistan in World Cup

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister and former test captain Imran Khan has sent an enthusiastic message to boost the morale of his country's team as they get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indian-team-attends-practice-session-ahead-of-crucial-pakistan-clash-227461">ready to face India</a> in the ICC World Cup 2019 in England.</p>

<p>These two arch-rivals meet in a group stage match at Old Trafford in Manchester, renewing one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries in a league match that will draw over a billion TV viewers.</p>

<p>Ahead of the clash of titans, the legend of Pakistan cricket – a former international all-rounder - issued a motivational message to the 'Men in Green' through Twitter.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a></strong></p>

<p>Imran sent messages to the Pakistani team via a series of tweets discussing how the game is mainly about being mentally tough and how skills have just 40% of the impact.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When I started my cricketing career I assumed success was 70% talent &amp; 30% mind. By the time I finished playing cricket I felt it was 50-50 ratio. But now I tend to agree with my friend Gavaskar it's 60% mental strength &amp; 40 % talent. Today role of mind will be more than 60% 1/5</p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150097071738880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today,” Imran Khan tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2/5 Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today. In Sarfaraz we are fortunate to have a bold captain &amp; today he will have to be at his daring best.</p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150332850393088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;“In Sarfaraz Ahmed, we are fortunate to have a bold captain &amp; today he will have to be at his daring best. All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative &amp; defensive strategy &amp; crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon,” Khan added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">3/5 All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative &amp; defensive strategy &amp; crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon. So here are my suggestions for Sarfaraz &amp; Pakistan team:</p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150746924625920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>He further added that Sarfaraz should bat first if he wins the toss.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4/5 1. In order ro have a winning offensive strategy Sarfaraz must go in with specialist batsmen and bowlers because "Raillu Kattas" rarely perform under pressure - especially the intense kind that will be generated today. 2. Unless pitch is damp, Sarfaraz must win the toss &amp; bat</p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150828277387264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Khan who led his country to World Cup glory in 1992 also advised the team to not succumb to pressure and give their best.</p>


Pakistan Prime Minister and former test captain Imran Khan has sent an enthusiastic message to boost the morale of his country's team as they get ready to face India in the ICC World Cup 2019 in England.

Pakistan Prime Minister and former test captain Imran Khan has sent an enthusiastic message to boost the morale of his country's team as they get ready to face India in the ICC World Cup 2019 in England. These two arch-rivals meet in a group stage match at Old Trafford in Manchester, renewing one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries in a league match that will draw over a billion TV viewers. Ahead of the clash of titans, the legend of Pakistan cricket – a former international all-rounder - issued a motivational message to the 'Men in Green' through Twitter. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history Imran sent messages to the Pakistani team via a series of tweets discussing how the game is mainly about being mentally tough and how skills have just 40% of the impact. When I started my cricketing career I assumed success was 70% talent & 30% mind. By the time I finished playing cricket I felt it was 50-50 ratio. But now I tend to agree with my friend Gavaskar it's 60% mental strength & 40 % talent. Today role of mind will be more than 60% 1/5 — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today,” Imran Khan tweeted. 2/5 Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today. In Sarfaraz we are fortunate to have a bold captain & today he will have to be at his daring best. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × “In Sarfaraz Ahmed, we are fortunate to have a bold captain & today he will have to be at his daring best. All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative & defensive strategy & crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon,” Khan added. 3/5 All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative & defensive strategy & crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon. So here are my suggestions for Sarfaraz & Pakistan team: — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × He further added that Sarfaraz should bat first if he wins the toss. 4/5 1. In order ro have a winning offensive strategy Sarfaraz must go in with specialist batsmen and bowlers because "Raillu Kattas" rarely perform under pressure - especially the intense kind that will be generated today. 2. Unless pitch is damp, Sarfaraz must win the toss & bat — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × Khan who led his country to World Cup glory in 1992 also advised the team to not succumb to pressure and give their best.

Win toss and bat first: Pakistan PM Imran Khan's advice to Sarfaraz

<p>India fans won't leave anything to chance for their team's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indian-team-attends-practice-session-ahead-of-crucial-pakistan-clash-227461">World Cup match against bitter rivals Pakistan</a> as they turn superstitious in a bid to inspire their team to a memorable victory.</p>

<p>Virat&nbsp;Kohli's side clash with Pakistan in Manchester on Sunday in the most eagerly-anticipated games of the group stage.</p>

<p>With bi-lateral series between the two nations suspended after India blamed Pakistan for the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, the Asian giants only meet in multi-nation events.</p>

<p>India boast a 6-0 record against Pakistan in the World Cup and their supporters are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that impressive streak remains unblemished.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a></strong></p>

<p>"I have come all the way from New Jersey with my brother-in-law to watch India beat Pakistan at Old Trafford. It's not a vacation but a pilgrimage for us," Hiten Patel, an Indian who lives in the US, told AFP.</p>

<p>"My brother-in-law and I have decided to abstain from non-vegetarian food till the India-Pak match gets over and hopefully that is our totka (a charm) for India to win."</p>

<p>Two-time champions India, one of the favourites to lift the trophy along with holders Australia and hosts England, have won two of their first three matches, with the other rained off.</p>

<p>Pakistan have lost two of their four games, but Indian fans are wary of their rivals' unpredictable nature after a shock loss in the 2017 Champions Trophy final when Sarfaraz Ahmed's team hammered favourites India.</p>

<p><strong>'Right foot first'</strong></p>

<p>"You never know with this Pakistani team. They may be down and out but somehow manage to pull a rabbit out of their hats against India," Percy Lakdawada, an Indian living in London, told AFP.</p>

<p>"I always travel to see India play in England and as a ritual I enter the stadium by putting my right foot first. And trust me whenever I have forgotten to do that India has lost," said the 54-year-old businessman.</p>

<p>India's first two matches in Southampton and London have witnessed a sell out crowd dominated by Indians and the rest of the venues are expected to be no different.</p>

<p>Australia skipper Aaron Finch was not surprised by the sea of blue at the Oval on Sunday in contrast to just a handful of Aussie fans.</p>

<p>While most fans prefer to wear the Indian team's jersey when taking their seats in the stands, one woman told AFP that the blue is bad luck for her.</p>

<p>"I once wore the Indian team jersey during a match in the 1999 World Cup and India lost. Since then I just wear any other colour than blue," said Meena Jain, who lives in Nottingham and is travelling for four Indian games including the Pakistan showdown.</p>

<p>"My husband and my son though will cheer the team in blue," the 46-year-old housewife added.</p>

<p>Many players are also superstitious, with Indian icon Sachin Tendulkar always following a certain regimen ahead of matches during his illustrious career.</p>

<p>"Sachin never wanted anyone to even wish him good luck before he went into bat," Tendulkar's biographer Boria Majumdar told AFP.</p>

<p>"For example at Centurion (versus Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup) when coach John Wright went to speak to him, he literally wished John wouldn't say a word.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The moment the umpires went on the field Sachin walked out and for once took first strike. The rest is history."</p>

<p>Tendulkar's superstitious approach inspired a match-winning knock of 98 that once again stamped India's World Cup superiority over Pakistan, with many of his compatriots hoping their own rituals produce the same outcome on Sunday.</p>


India fans won't leave anything to chance for their team's World Cup match against bitter rivals Pakistan as they turn superstitious in a bid to inspire their team to a memorable victory.

India fans won't leave anything to chance for their team's World Cup match against bitter rivals Pakistan as they turn superstitious in a bid to inspire their team to a memorable victory. Virat Kohli's side clash with Pakistan in Manchester on Sunday in the most eagerly-anticipated games of the group stage. With bi-lateral series between the two nations suspended after India blamed Pakistan for the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, the Asian giants only meet in multi-nation events. India boast a 6-0 record against Pakistan in the World Cup and their supporters are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that impressive streak remains unblemished. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history "I have come all the way from New Jersey with my brother-in-law to watch India beat Pakistan at Old Trafford. It's not a vacation but a pilgrimage for us," Hiten Patel, an Indian who lives in the US, told AFP. "My brother-in-law and I have decided to abstain from non-vegetarian food till the India-Pak match gets over and hopefully that is our totka (a charm) for India to win." Two-time champions India, one of the favourites to lift the trophy along with holders Australia and hosts England, have won two of their first three matches, with the other rained off. Pakistan have lost two of their four games, but Indian fans are wary of their rivals' unpredictable nature after a shock loss in the 2017 Champions Trophy final when Sarfaraz Ahmed's team hammered favourites India. 'Right foot first' "You never know with this Pakistani team. They may be down and out but somehow manage to pull a rabbit out of their hats against India," Percy Lakdawada, an Indian living in London, told AFP. "I always travel to see India play in England and as a ritual I enter the stadium by putting my right foot first. And trust me whenever I have forgotten to do that India has lost," said the 54-year-old businessman. India's first two matches in Southampton and London have witnessed a sell out crowd dominated by Indians and the rest of the venues are expected to be no different. Australia skipper Aaron Finch was not surprised by the sea of blue at the Oval on Sunday in contrast to just a handful of Aussie fans. While most fans prefer to wear the Indian team's jersey when taking their seats in the stands, one woman told AFP that the blue is bad luck for her. "I once wore the Indian team jersey during a match in the 1999 World Cup and India lost. Since then I just wear any other colour than blue," said Meena Jain, who lives in Nottingham and is travelling for four Indian games including the Pakistan showdown. "My husband and my son though will cheer the team in blue," the 46-year-old housewife added. Many players are also superstitious, with Indian icon Sachin Tendulkar always following a certain regimen ahead of matches during his illustrious career. "Sachin never wanted anyone to even wish him good luck before he went into bat," Tendulkar's biographer Boria Majumdar told AFP. "For example at Centurion (versus Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup) when coach John Wright went to speak to him, he literally wished John wouldn't say a word. "The moment the umpires went on the field Sachin walked out and for once took first strike. The rest is history." Tendulkar's superstitious approach inspired a match-winning knock of 98 that once again stamped India's World Cup superiority over Pakistan, with many of his compatriots hoping their own rituals produce the same outcome on Sunday.

India fans and their crazy superstitions ahead of Pakistan clash

<p>Captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;has sought to play down the hype surrounding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indian-team-attends-practice-session-ahead-of-crucial-pakistan-clash-227461">India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan</a>, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime".</p>

<p>The two Asian giants lock horns in Manchester on Sunday with more than a billion people expected to tune in for the most-anticipated match of the tournament.</p>

<p>Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far.</p>

<p>Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli&nbsp;said his team would focus on their strengths rather than worrying about the weaknesses of any opposition.</p>

<p>"We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other,"&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said at Old Trafford on Saturday.</p>

<p>"It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said.</p>

<p>Matches between the two countries, who currently only face each other in multi-nation tournaments, are always about more than just what happens on the pitch.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"I think the best way to approach something like this, if one focuses too much on what's going on the outside, it's to understand that the game starts tomorrow at a certain time and it finishes at a certain time," said&nbsp;Kohli.</p>

<p>"So it's not going to last a lifetime for you, whether you do well or you don't," the captained reasoned with a blank expression.</p>

<p>He added, "From the fans' point of view, looking at the atmosphere and frenzy around the game, I wouldn't say it's easy to think like a player. For the players, it's very, very crucial to be absolutely professional."</p>

<p>The two teams have played each other in 131 one-day international games. Pakistan have a clear edge with 73 wins, despite their poor record against India at World Cups.</p>

<p>With the threat of rain looming over the match,&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said flexibility would be crucial both for the team's plans and the make-up of the side.</p>

<p>"We can't be rigid in our approach because, if the conditions are very different from what we played in the last game, then we'll have to think of different combinations, " he said.</p>

<p>"If the length of the game is going to be full and we expect the game to be 50 overs both sides, then we'll probably think of another combination, but we'll have to be flexible."<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Captain Virat Kohli has sought to play down the hype surrounding India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime".

Captain Virat Kohli has sought to play down the hype surrounding India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime". The two Asian giants lock horns in Manchester on Sunday with more than a billion people expected to tune in for the most-anticipated match of the tournament. Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far. Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history Kohli said his team would focus on their strengths rather than worrying about the weaknesses of any opposition. "We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other," Kohli said at Old Trafford on Saturday. "It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said. Matches between the two countries, who currently only face each other in multi-nation tournaments, are always about more than just what happens on the pitch. In pics: Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash "I think the best way to approach something like this, if one focuses too much on what's going on the outside, it's to understand that the game starts tomorrow at a certain time and it finishes at a certain time," said Kohli. "So it's not going to last a lifetime for you, whether you do well or you don't," the captained reasoned with a blank expression. He added, "From the fans' point of view, looking at the atmosphere and frenzy around the game, I wouldn't say it's easy to think like a player. For the players, it's very, very crucial to be absolutely professional." The two teams have played each other in 131 one-day international games. Pakistan have a clear edge with 73 wins, despite their poor record against India at World Cups. With the threat of rain looming over the match, Kohli said flexibility would be crucial both for the team's plans and the make-up of the side. "We can't be rigid in our approach because, if the conditions are very different from what we played in the last game, then we'll have to think of different combinations, " he said. "If the length of the game is going to be full and we expect the game to be 50 overs both sides, then we'll probably think of another combination, but we'll have to be flexible."

India-Pakistan World Cup result will not be career-defining, says Virat Kohli

<p>West Indies batsman Chris Gayle is ready for the World Cup match between India and Pakistan, scheduled on June 16 at Old Trafford, Manchester.</p>

<p>Gayle shared a picture of himself donning a white suit with patches of orange and green with a grey patch in between on one side of the outfit, symbolic of the Indian flag, while the other had patches of green, symbolic of his support to Pakistan.</p>

<p>The West Indian also said he will wear the same attire on his birthday, which falls in September. "Yup! I'm rocking my India Pakistan Suit, all love and respect! I really love it and this will be one of my outfit at my birthday party September 20th... its lit," Gayle captioned his Instagram post.</p>

<p>Cricket World Cup Instagram handle too shared the picture of Gayle in his India-Pakistan suit and wrote, "the Universe Boss is ready for the match.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByuuaFQFO7_/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Yup! I’m rocking my india 🇮🇳 Pakistan 🇵🇰 Suit, all love and respect!😉 ✌🏿... I really love it and this will be one of my outfit at my birthday party September 20th 😁...its lit 🔥 👌🏿🕺🏾🥂 #FashionOverStyle #UniverseBoss #KingGayle #45 #333 #Suit @sidbafna #Attiitude #CWC19</a></p>

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<p>"Earlier in the day, India captain Virat Kohli dismissed any question of pressure in playing arch-rivals Pakistan and said no game is more special or less regardless of the opposition and that the atmosphere in the dressing room has not changed.</p>

<p>Kohli indicated that depending on the weather and playing conditions there could be changes in the playing squad.</p>

<p>Addressing the pre-match press conference, Kohli said in a philosophical vein that the World Cup match against Pakistan will not last a lifetime as it starts and ends at a certain time and the 50-over tournament will still go on even if the result goes against the Indian team.</p>

<p>Relationship with the Pakistani players was good, he said and praised a couple of them.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur said that his team has not played a perfect game yet. The coach also said if Pakistan put all disciplines together, then they can beat anyone in the world.</p>

<p>"If we put three disciplines together, we can beat anyone in the world. We haven't put a perfect game yet, we are confident of displaying perfect cricketing skills. If we put it all together, we are a good cricket team.</p>

<p>"There`s pressure on each and every game. We are excited about tomorrow and we are pretty confident that we will perform to the best of our ability," Arthur said.&nbsp;</p>


West Indies batsman Chris Gayle is ready for the World Cup match between India and Pakistan, scheduled on June 16 at Old Trafford, Manchester. Gayle shared a picture of himself donning a white suit with patches of orange and green with a grey patch in between on one side of the outfit, symbolic of the Indian flag, while the other had patches of green, symbolic of his support to Pakistan.

West Indies batsman Chris Gayle is ready for the World Cup match between India and Pakistan, scheduled on June 16 at Old Trafford, Manchester. Gayle shared a picture of himself donning a white suit with patches of orange and green with a grey patch in between on one side of the outfit, symbolic of the Indian flag, while the other had patches of green, symbolic of his support to Pakistan. The West Indian also said he will wear the same attire on his birthday, which falls in September. "Yup! I'm rocking my India Pakistan Suit, all love and respect! I really love it and this will be one of my outfit at my birthday party September 20th... its lit," Gayle captioned his Instagram post. Cricket World Cup Instagram handle too shared the picture of Gayle in his India-Pakistan suit and wrote, "the Universe Boss is ready for the match. View this post on Instagram Yup! I’m rocking my india 🇮🇳 Pakistan 🇵🇰 Suit, all love and respect!😉 ✌🏿... I really love it and this will be one of my outfit at my birthday party September 20th 😁...its lit 🔥 👌🏿🕺🏾🥂 #FashionOverStyle #UniverseBoss #KingGayle #45 #333 #Suit @sidbafna #Attiitude #CWC19 A post shared by KingGayle 👑 (@chrisgayle333) on Jun 15, 2019 at 5:16am PDT × "Earlier in the day, India captain Virat Kohli dismissed any question of pressure in playing arch-rivals Pakistan and said no game is more special or less regardless of the opposition and that the atmosphere in the dressing room has not changed. Kohli indicated that depending on the weather and playing conditions there could be changes in the playing squad. Addressing the pre-match press conference, Kohli said in a philosophical vein that the World Cup match against Pakistan will not last a lifetime as it starts and ends at a certain time and the 50-over tournament will still go on even if the result goes against the Indian team. Relationship with the Pakistani players was good, he said and praised a couple of them. On the other hand, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur said that his team has not played a perfect game yet. The coach also said if Pakistan put all disciplines together, then they can beat anyone in the world. "If we put three disciplines together, we can beat anyone in the world. We haven't put a perfect game yet, we are confident of displaying perfect cricketing skills. If we put it all together, we are a good cricket team. "There`s pressure on each and every game. We are excited about tomorrow and we are pretty confident that we will perform to the best of our ability," Arthur said.

Chris Gayle dons special suit for India-Pak World Cup clash

<p>On the eve of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">India vs Pakistan match</a>, a miniature of the Cricket World Cup trophy crafted by an Indian jewellery-making unit was seen in India's Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mini trophy was prepared in three months and it will be gifted to the Indian cricket team, but there is one condition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat Kohli-led team will only win the mini trophy if they win against Pakistan when they square off in Manchester on June 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a></strong></p>

<p>The 18-mm high trophy is composed of 22 carats of gold and weighs 0.880 milligrams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far.</p>

<p>Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout.</p>

<p>"We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other,"&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said at Old Trafford on Saturday.</p>

<p>"It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said.</p>


On the eve of India vs Pakistan match, a miniature of the Cricket World Cup trophy crafted by an Indian jewellery-making unit was seen in India's Ahmedabad. The mini trophy was prepared in three months and it will be gifted to the Indian cricket team, but there is one condition.

On the eve of India vs Pakistan match, a miniature of the Cricket World Cup trophy crafted by an Indian jewellery-making unit was seen in India's Ahmedabad. The mini trophy was prepared in three months and it will be gifted to the Indian cricket team, but there is one condition. Virat Kohli-led team will only win the mini trophy if they win against Pakistan when they square off in Manchester on June 16. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history The 18-mm high trophy is composed of 22 carats of gold and weighs 0.880 milligrams. Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far. Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout. "We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other," Kohli said at Old Trafford on Saturday. "It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said.

Guess who will win this miniature Cricket World Cup trophy?

<p>Sri Lanka are likely to be hit with an International Cricket Council sanction after failing to fulfil their media duties following Saturday's damaging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-aaron-finch-and-mitchell-starc-guide-australias-87-run-win-over-sri-lanka-227454">World Cup defeat against Australia</a>.</p>

<p>Dimuth Karunaratne's side were beaten by 87 runs at the Oval, leaving their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals hanging by a slender thread.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka skipper Karunaratne and other players from his team were due to face the press after the match in a media conference and 'mixed zone'.</p>

<p>But they refused to attend the press briefings and are liable to face action from tournament organisers the ICC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked if Sri Lanka would face any sanction, an ICC spokesman told reporters, "Yes. Sri Lanka have told us they don't want to do it. The ICC will be speaking to them."</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's refusal to meet the media comes just days after their team manager Ashantha de Mel slammed the ICC's treatment of the squad.</p>

<p>De Mel blasted the quality of pitches, practice facilities, transport and accommodation at the World Cup.</p>

<p>"This is a World Cup where the top ten countries are taking part and I feel that all the participants should be treated equally," de Mel was quoted as saying by Sri Lankan newspaper&nbsp;Daily News.</p>

<p>De Mel also criticised Sri Lanka's team bus, saying it was more cramped than the double-decker vehicles provided to other teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He blasted the net facilities at Cardiff as "unsatisfactory" and the squad's hotel in Bristol, which lacked a swimming pool.</p>


Sri Lanka are likely to be hit with an International Cricket Council sanction after failing to fulfil their media duties following Saturday's damaging World Cup defeat against Australia.

Sri Lanka are likely to be hit with an International Cricket Council sanction after failing to fulfil their media duties following Saturday's damaging World Cup defeat against Australia. Dimuth Karunaratne's side were beaten by 87 runs at the Oval, leaving their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals hanging by a slender thread. Sri Lanka skipper Karunaratne and other players from his team were due to face the press after the match in a media conference and 'mixed zone'. But they refused to attend the press briefings and are liable to face action from tournament organisers the ICC. Asked if Sri Lanka would face any sanction, an ICC spokesman told reporters, "Yes. Sri Lanka have told us they don't want to do it. The ICC will be speaking to them." Sri Lanka's refusal to meet the media comes just days after their team manager Ashantha de Mel slammed the ICC's treatment of the squad. De Mel blasted the quality of pitches, practice facilities, transport and accommodation at the World Cup. "This is a World Cup where the top ten countries are taking part and I feel that all the participants should be treated equally," de Mel was quoted as saying by Sri Lankan newspaper Daily News. De Mel also criticised Sri Lanka's team bus, saying it was more cramped than the double-decker vehicles provided to other teams. He blasted the net facilities at Cardiff as "unsatisfactory" and the squad's hotel in Bristol, which lacked a swimming pool.

Sri Lanka snub media duties after World Cup defeat

<p>Pakistan's rising star Babar Azam has revealed he models himself on India captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;just days before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">fierce rivals clash</a> in an explosive World Cup showdown.</p>

<p>Babar holds the key for Pakistan against old foes India in Manchester on Sunday and the batsman has been fine-tuning his game by watching videos of the supremely talented&nbsp;Kohli.</p>

<p>Babar showed his class by scoring a brilliant 63 in Pakistan's 348-8 when they beat pre-tournament favourites England earlier in the World Cup.</p>

<p>His heroics gave Pakistan their only win so far in the tournament, with defeats against the West Indies and Australia, while their match against Sri Lanka was rained off.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a></strong></p>

<p>While there is no love lost between India and Pakistan on or off the pitch, Babar is willing to admit he watches&nbsp;Kohli's batting and tries to learn from him.</p>

<p>"I watch his batting and the way he bats in various conditions and try to learn from them," Babar told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I try to learn with experience. This is my process of learning, so I try my hundred per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"His (Kohli) winning ratio is higher (for India) so I am trying to achieve that as well."</p>

<p>Babar, 24, says Pakistan's Champions Trophy final demolition of India two years ago has increased the team's confidence they can claim another surprise success against India this weekend.</p>

<p>"The Champions Trophy win gave us confidence and will also help here as well because the team is mostly the same and that win is always an inspiration," Babar said.</p>

<p>Pakistan, trounced by 124 runs in the opening match of the Champions Trophy by India, hit back by crushing their bitter rivals in the final.</p>

<p>Their 180-run win at the Oval is the biggest over India in all ODIs.</p>

<p>"That win can never go off our memories and it's a big inspiration," he said.</p>

<p>The India-Pakistan clash will be watched by a vast global audience and Babar insists the pressure will spur his unpredictable team to produce their best.</p>

<p>"We are well prepared for this match because India and Pakistan matches are exciting and demanding and the whole world watches it," Babar said.</p>

<p>"The whole team is positive so we are looking forward to the match. Not only me but all the players want to finish on a high, whoever hits form wants to win it."</p>

<p>And Babar is confident Pakistan will handle India's potent pace attack, led by world number one ODI bowler Jasprit Bumrah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No doubt, India have a good bowling attack but we have played well against England who also have a very good pace attack so all of us are confident the Indian pace attack will be properly handled," Babar said.</p>


Pakistan's rising star Babar Azam has revealed he models himself on India captain Virat Kohli just days before the fierce rivals clash in an explosive World Cup showdown.

Pakistan's rising star Babar Azam has revealed he models himself on India captain Virat Kohli just days before the fierce rivals clash in an explosive World Cup showdown. Babar holds the key for Pakistan against old foes India in Manchester on Sunday and the batsman has been fine-tuning his game by watching videos of the supremely talented Kohli. Babar showed his class by scoring a brilliant 63 in Pakistan's 348-8 when they beat pre-tournament favourites England earlier in the World Cup. His heroics gave Pakistan their only win so far in the tournament, with defeats against the West Indies and Australia, while their match against Sri Lanka was rained off. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history While there is no love lost between India and Pakistan on or off the pitch, Babar is willing to admit he watches Kohli's batting and tries to learn from him. "I watch his batting and the way he bats in various conditions and try to learn from them," Babar told reporters. "I try to learn with experience. This is my process of learning, so I try my hundred per cent. "His (Kohli) winning ratio is higher (for India) so I am trying to achieve that as well." Babar, 24, says Pakistan's Champions Trophy final demolition of India two years ago has increased the team's confidence they can claim another surprise success against India this weekend. "The Champions Trophy win gave us confidence and will also help here as well because the team is mostly the same and that win is always an inspiration," Babar said. Pakistan, trounced by 124 runs in the opening match of the Champions Trophy by India, hit back by crushing their bitter rivals in the final. Their 180-run win at the Oval is the biggest over India in all ODIs. "That win can never go off our memories and it's a big inspiration," he said. The India-Pakistan clash will be watched by a vast global audience and Babar insists the pressure will spur his unpredictable team to produce their best. "We are well prepared for this match because India and Pakistan matches are exciting and demanding and the whole world watches it," Babar said. "The whole team is positive so we are looking forward to the match. Not only me but all the players want to finish on a high, whoever hits form wants to win it." And Babar is confident Pakistan will handle India's potent pace attack, led by world number one ODI bowler Jasprit Bumrah. "No doubt, India have a good bowling attack but we have played well against England who also have a very good pace attack so all of us are confident the Indian pace attack will be properly handled," Babar said.

World Cup: Indian maestro Virat Kohli is a model for Pakistan's Babar Azam

<p>David&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;gave net bowler Jaykishan Plaha a signed Australia World Cup shirt on Saturday, a week after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-net-bowler-hospitalised-after-getting-hit-on-head-by-david-warners-shot-during-practice-225478">hitting the paceman in the head with a drive during a practice session</a> at the Oval.</p>

<p>Australia halted their training session after the incident and Plaha was taken to hospital for checks, which showed no major injury.</p>

<p>The left-handed batsman met Plaha ahead of Australia's game against Sri Lanka at the same venue and presented him with an autographed team shirt.</p>

<p>"Last week, Jaykishan Plaha was hit on the head by a David&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;drive during an Australia training session," said a post on the official World Cup Twitter feed.</p>

<p>"Today,&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;met both Jaykishan and his mum before play, presented Jaykishan with an Australia shirt and wished him a speedy recovery."</p>

<p>Australia captain Aaron Finch said last week that&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;was "pretty shaken-up" after the net bowler was felled.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Last week, Jaykishan Plaha was hit on the head by a David Warner drive during an Australia training session.<br />
<br />
Today, Warner met both Jaykishan and his mum before play, presented Jaykishan with an Australia shirt and wished him a speedy recovery 👏 ✊ <a href="https://t.co/ZNrqnFuuau">pic.twitter.com/ZNrqnFuuau</a></p>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1139846180907565056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Warner&nbsp;gave me his match shirt from the World Cup. Really appreciate it. What happened was that I got hit on the head by David&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;on the front drive," Plaha said in a video posted on Twitter.</p>

<p>"Glad to be standing here actually. Hope to be back on the field soon. My dream is to be a professional cricketer as well."</p>

<p>Warner, who has returned from a ball-tampering ban along with teammate Steve Smith, has scored 281 runs at the World Cup in five matches so far, including a century and two fifties.</p>

<p>Australian cricket was plunged into mourning in 2014 when Test batsman Phillip Hughes died after being hit on the base of the skull during a domestic match.</p>

<p>Warner&nbsp;was playing in that match, between New South Wales and South Australia.</p>


David Warner gave net bowler Jaykishan Plaha a signed Australia World Cup shirt on Saturday, a week after hitting the paceman in the head with a drive during a practice session at the Oval.

David Warner gave net bowler Jaykishan Plaha a signed Australia World Cup shirt on Saturday, a week after hitting the paceman in the head with a drive during a practice session at the Oval. Australia halted their training session after the incident and Plaha was taken to hospital for checks, which showed no major injury. The left-handed batsman met Plaha ahead of Australia's game against Sri Lanka at the same venue and presented him with an autographed team shirt. "Last week, Jaykishan Plaha was hit on the head by a David Warner drive during an Australia training session," said a post on the official World Cup Twitter feed. "Today, Warner met both Jaykishan and his mum before play, presented Jaykishan with an Australia shirt and wished him a speedy recovery." Australia captain Aaron Finch said last week that Warner was "pretty shaken-up" after the net bowler was felled. Watch the video: Last week, Jaykishan Plaha was hit on the head by a David Warner drive during an Australia training session. Today, Warner met both Jaykishan and his mum before play, presented Jaykishan with an Australia shirt and wished him a speedy recovery 👏 ✊ pic.twitter.com/ZNrqnFuuau — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 15, 2019 × "Warner gave me his match shirt from the World Cup. Really appreciate it. What happened was that I got hit on the head by David Warner on the front drive," Plaha said in a video posted on Twitter. "Glad to be standing here actually. Hope to be back on the field soon. My dream is to be a professional cricketer as well." Warner, who has returned from a ball-tampering ban along with teammate Steve Smith, has scored 281 runs at the World Cup in five matches so far, including a century and two fifties. Australian cricket was plunged into mourning in 2014 when Test batsman Phillip Hughes died after being hit on the base of the skull during a domestic match. Warner was playing in that match, between New South Wales and South Australia.

Watch: David Warner presents injured net bowler with Australia World Cup shirt

<p>Australia captain Aaron Finch and pace bowler Mitchell Starc stole the show as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-20-sri-lanka-vs-australia-227294">holders eased to an 87-run win over Sri Lanka</a> at the Oval on Saturday.</p>

<p>Finch equalled his career-best one-day international score with a masterful 153 and Steve Smith chipped in with 73 as Australia scored 334-7.</p>

<p>Needing a World Cup record run-chase to claim a shock win, Sri Lanka got off to a flying start thanks to a first-wicket partnership of 115 between captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera.</p>

<p>But Perera departed for 52 and when Karunaratne fell on 97 the game swung back in Australia's direction.</p>

<p>Starc was the catalyst with a fiery spell of three wickets in six balls, Australia eventually dismissing Sri Lanka for 247 thanks in large part to his 4-55 from 10 overs.</p>

<p>Kane Richardson added three wickets of his own as Australia made it four wins from their five group matches after previously beating Afghanistan, the West Indies and Pakistan.</p>

<p>Their lone defeat in the 10-team tournament came against India and their latest victory puts them well on course for a semi-final berth.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka, who lost their last seven wickets for 42 runs, have only one win from their five matches, a disappointing run that includes two washouts.</p>

<p>They face a struggle to reach the semi-finals with only four matches left, a spell that features encounters with title contenders England and India.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka had briefly looked capable of surpassing the World Cup chase set by Ireland, who made 329-7 to beat England in 2011.</p>

<p><img alt="Match 20" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb6a492c-e9b1-4583-97b1-f0761bb59ed0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2020.jpg" /></p>

<p>Karunaratne and his opening partner Perera blasted 24 from the first two overs and reached their fifty partnership in just the seventh over.</p>

<p>But Starc bowled Perera and Jason Behrendorff dismissed Lahiru Thirimanne for 16 as Australia hit back.</p>

<p><strong>Starc turns the screw</strong></p>

<p>A six from Kusal Mendis in the 31st over signalled Sri Lanka's intent to get cracking.</p>

<p>But crucially Karunaratne stumbled short of his maiden World Cup century when he carelessly flicked Richardson to Glenn Maxwell at backward point.</p>

<p>That left Sri Lanka 186-3 and set the stage for Starc to turn the screw by dismissing Milinda Siriwardana, Thisara Perera and Mendis in quick succession.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">1987 🏆<br />
1999 🏆<br />
2003 🏆<br />
2007 🏆<br />
2015 🏆<br />
2019 ❓ <a href="https://t.co/iXq53lqUx1">pic.twitter.com/iXq53lqUx1</a></p>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1139945391854620672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mendis's mistimed drive off Starc reduced Sri Lanka to 222-7 and shattered their resistance.</p>

<p>Earlier, Finch took the Sri Lanka attack apart with a dazzling display that included 15 fours and five sixes.</p>

<p>He was well-supported by Smith's 73 from 59 balls and the pair put on 173 runs for the third wicket.</p>

<p>Together with opening partner David Warner, Finch took the attack to the Sri Lankans after being put in to bat under cloudy skies in south London.</p>

<p>The pair passed fifty for the opening wicket for the fourth time in five games at the World Cup.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka had no answer to Finch's brutal assault and by the time he departed, caught by Karunaratne off Isuru Udana, he had put Australia in a commanding position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maxwell's quick-fire 46 from 25 balls rubbed salt into Sri Lanka's wounds.</p>


Australia captain Aaron Finch and pace bowler Mitchell Starc stole the show as the holders eased to an 87-run win over Sri Lanka at the Oval on Saturday. Finch equalled his career-best one-day international score with a masterful 153 and Steve Smith chipped in with 73 as Australia scored 334-7.

Australia captain Aaron Finch and pace bowler Mitchell Starc stole the show as the holders eased to an 87-run win over Sri Lanka at the Oval on Saturday. Finch equalled his career-best one-day international score with a masterful 153 and Steve Smith chipped in with 73 as Australia scored 334-7. Needing a World Cup record run-chase to claim a shock win, Sri Lanka got off to a flying start thanks to a first-wicket partnership of 115 between captain Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera. But Perera departed for 52 and when Karunaratne fell on 97 the game swung back in Australia's direction. Starc was the catalyst with a fiery spell of three wickets in six balls, Australia eventually dismissing Sri Lanka for 247 thanks in large part to his 4-55 from 10 overs. Kane Richardson added three wickets of his own as Australia made it four wins from their five group matches after previously beating Afghanistan, the West Indies and Pakistan. Their lone defeat in the 10-team tournament came against India and their latest victory puts them well on course for a semi-final berth. Sri Lanka, who lost their last seven wickets for 42 runs, have only one win from their five matches, a disappointing run that includes two washouts. They face a struggle to reach the semi-finals with only four matches left, a spell that features encounters with title contenders England and India. Sri Lanka had briefly looked capable of surpassing the World Cup chase set by Ireland, who made 329-7 to beat England in 2011. Karunaratne and his opening partner Perera blasted 24 from the first two overs and reached their fifty partnership in just the seventh over. But Starc bowled Perera and Jason Behrendorff dismissed Lahiru Thirimanne for 16 as Australia hit back. Starc turns the screw A six from Kusal Mendis in the 31st over signalled Sri Lanka's intent to get cracking. But crucially Karunaratne stumbled short of his maiden World Cup century when he carelessly flicked Richardson to Glenn Maxwell at backward point. That left Sri Lanka 186-3 and set the stage for Starc to turn the screw by dismissing Milinda Siriwardana, Thisara Perera and Mendis in quick succession. 1987 🏆 1999 🏆 2003 🏆 2007 🏆 2015 🏆 2019 ❓ pic.twitter.com/iXq53lqUx1 — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 15, 2019 × Mendis's mistimed drive off Starc reduced Sri Lanka to 222-7 and shattered their resistance. Earlier, Finch took the Sri Lanka attack apart with a dazzling display that included 15 fours and five sixes. He was well-supported by Smith's 73 from 59 balls and the pair put on 173 runs for the third wicket. Together with opening partner David Warner, Finch took the attack to the Sri Lankans after being put in to bat under cloudy skies in south London. The pair passed fifty for the opening wicket for the fourth time in five games at the World Cup. Sri Lanka had no answer to Finch's brutal assault and by the time he departed, caught by Karunaratne off Isuru Udana, he had put Australia in a commanding position. Maxwell's quick-fire 46 from 25 balls rubbed salt into Sri Lanka's wounds.

World Cup: Aaron Finch and Mitchell Starc guide Australia's 87-run win over Sri Lanka

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli addressed a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash</a> which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No one game is more special for us than the other. Our responsibility is to treat every game equally, regardless of the opposition. We are a top side in the world because of the cricket that we play," said Virat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a></strong></p>

<p>"If we play well, we can beat anyone. Nothing changes according to the opposition. For the players, it is very important to be professional, be it any team you are up against," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India had never lost to Pakistan in 50-over World Cup history&nbsp;and will look to continue the trend in the ongoing edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India had not lost any game in the three matches played so far, the last match against New Zealand was got abandoned due to rain.</p>

<p>While Pakistan has won one match out of four they have played so far. They lost two contests and one was abandoned.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli addressed a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli addressed a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester. "No one game is more special for us than the other. Our responsibility is to treat every game equally, regardless of the opposition. We are a top side in the world because of the cricket that we play," said Virat. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history "If we play well, we can beat anyone. Nothing changes according to the opposition. For the players, it is very important to be professional, be it any team you are up against," he further added. India had never lost to Pakistan in 50-over World Cup history and will look to continue the trend in the ongoing edition. India had not lost any game in the three matches played so far, the last match against New Zealand was got abandoned due to rain. While Pakistan has won one match out of four they have played so far. They lost two contests and one was abandoned.

'If we play well, we can beat anyone,' says Virat Kohli ahead of India vs Pakistan clash

<p>Harbhajan Singh has warned India's stars to expect a sleepless night ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan</a> on Sunday.</p>

<p>India legend Harbhajan knows from bitter experience just how stressful it is to take part in one of the most fierce rivalries in world sport.</p>

<p>The tense political situation between India and Pakistan lends an extra level of animosity whenever the feuding neighbours clash on the cricket pitch.</p>

<p>Their latest meeting comes with the stakes even higher than usual in the World Cup at Old Trafford this weekend and Harbhajan is well aware just how high emotions will be running on the pitch and in the stands.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old spinner played 17 times against Pakistan in a 236-match ODI career for India, including arguably their biggest ever match in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals on home soil in Chandigarh.</p>

<p>It was such a critical fixture that Harbhajan lay awake for hours tossing and turning in bed the night before the game as he visualised the furious response from the Indian public if they lost.</p>

<p>"The memories of that game was I couldn't sleep the night before, even though I tried my best," Harbhajan said.</p>

<p>"I was just worried about what would happen if we lost the game. There were a lot of thoughts coming into my mind.</p>

<p>"People get angry and they can do anything. In the 2003 World Cup we didn't play one game as well as we should have against Australia and people got really angry.</p>

<p>"They were just burning our stuff and throwing stones at our homes. They get a bit emotional."</p>

<p><strong>'Too happy'</strong></p>

<p>Despite his sleep-deprived preparation, Harbhajan took two wickets as India beat Pakistan by 29 runs, with his side going on to win the World Cup for the second time.</p>

<p>Even with a disastrous defeat averted, the adrenaline of victory kept Harbhajan from sleeping the night after the match as well.</p>

<p>"When we won the game I couldn't sleep the next day either because I was too excited and too happy. That's what the Pakistan game does to you," he said.</p>

<p>"Obviously it's one of those games when the pressure is a little more than when you play against England or New Zealand.</p>

<p>"People in both countries want their respective teams to win and if you end up losing the game the people really get up upset and they go on to lose their minds, which is obviously quite bad."</p>

<p>Although they were crushed by Pakistan in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, India have never lost to them at a World Cup, winning at the last two tournaments, and are favourites to extend that run when the rivalry resumes in Manchester.</p>

<p>However, Harbhajan acknowledges India's status brings its own burdens, raising expectations among their passionate fanbase of another win over the old enemy.</p>

<p>"As a player you always want to play well against Pakistan, so there is more pressure. It's not just for Indian players but for Pakistani players as well," he said.</p>

<p>"But there is more pressure on the Indian players because we have a very good record in these games and we don't want to change that."</p>


Harbhajan Singh has warned India's stars to expect a sleepless night ahead of their World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. India legend Harbhajan knows from bitter experience just how stressful it is to take part in one of the most fierce rivalries in world sport.

Harbhajan Singh has warned India's stars to expect a sleepless night ahead of their World Cup showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. India legend Harbhajan knows from bitter experience just how stressful it is to take part in one of the most fierce rivalries in world sport. The tense political situation between India and Pakistan lends an extra level of animosity whenever the feuding neighbours clash on the cricket pitch. Their latest meeting comes with the stakes even higher than usual in the World Cup at Old Trafford this weekend and Harbhajan is well aware just how high emotions will be running on the pitch and in the stands. The 38-year-old spinner played 17 times against Pakistan in a 236-match ODI career for India, including arguably their biggest ever match in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals on home soil in Chandigarh. It was such a critical fixture that Harbhajan lay awake for hours tossing and turning in bed the night before the game as he visualised the furious response from the Indian public if they lost. "The memories of that game was I couldn't sleep the night before, even though I tried my best," Harbhajan said. "I was just worried about what would happen if we lost the game. There were a lot of thoughts coming into my mind. "People get angry and they can do anything. In the 2003 World Cup we didn't play one game as well as we should have against Australia and people got really angry. "They were just burning our stuff and throwing stones at our homes. They get a bit emotional." 'Too happy' Despite his sleep-deprived preparation, Harbhajan took two wickets as India beat Pakistan by 29 runs, with his side going on to win the World Cup for the second time. Even with a disastrous defeat averted, the adrenaline of victory kept Harbhajan from sleeping the night after the match as well. "When we won the game I couldn't sleep the next day either because I was too excited and too happy. That's what the Pakistan game does to you," he said. "Obviously it's one of those games when the pressure is a little more than when you play against England or New Zealand. "People in both countries want their respective teams to win and if you end up losing the game the people really get up upset and they go on to lose their minds, which is obviously quite bad." Although they were crushed by Pakistan in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, India have never lost to them at a World Cup, winning at the last two tournaments, and are favourites to extend that run when the rivalry resumes in Manchester. However, Harbhajan acknowledges India's status brings its own burdens, raising expectations among their passionate fanbase of another win over the old enemy. "As a player you always want to play well against Pakistan, so there is more pressure. It's not just for Indian players but for Pakistani players as well," he said. "But there is more pressure on the Indian players because we have a very good record in these games and we don't want to change that."

Harbhajan Singh warns India stars to expect sleepless night as Pakistan loom

<p>The Cricket World Cup match between India and New Zealand has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-and-new-zealand-split-points-after-trent-bridge-washout-226923">called off due to rain</a> without a ball being bowled at Trent Bridge on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A soggy outfield from overnight showers had already delayed the start of the contest between the tournament's only two unbeaten sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was the fourth match to be either called off or abandoned in the rain-hit tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cups-second-week-was-all-about-controversies-injuries-and-washouts-226893">Week 2 of World Cup marred by controversies, injuries and washouts</a></strong></p>

<p>As one of the most anticipated matches was abandoned, the fans and spectators were looked frustrated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A few of the fans expressed their exasperation via hilarious memes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Look at some of them:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Summary of the match <a href="https://t.co/GESeXrXQCu">pic.twitter.com/GESeXrXQCu</a></p>
— Telugu Cinema Fun (@TCinemaFun) <a href="https://twitter.com/TCinemaFun/status/1139173793945907200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/IiYvkoZXnb">pic.twitter.com/IiYvkoZXnb</a></p>
— என்ன கொடுமை சரவணன் (@Kamarde97274977) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kamarde97274977/status/1139170970072043520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChangeTheVenue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChangeTheVenue</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cwc19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cwc19</a> <a href="https://t.co/PmxOiU1ydS">pic.twitter.com/PmxOiU1ydS</a></p>
— Silent Spectator 🇮🇳 (@Doc_J_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Doc_J_/status/1139171278516920321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/gxhrZHZP4p">pic.twitter.com/gxhrZHZP4p</a></p>
— Zami (@aanas_zami) <a href="https://twitter.com/aanas_zami/status/1139172838860963841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/lFskS1xy1x">pic.twitter.com/lFskS1xy1x</a></p>
— ᎧᏇᏗᎥᏕ ᏰᏂᏗᏖ (@OwaisBhat789) <a href="https://twitter.com/OwaisBhat789/status/1139171273374756864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCWorldCup2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nottingham?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nottingham</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/raining?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#raining</a><br />
After flood warning issued in Nottingham <a href="https://t.co/8rvdVpxiTg">pic.twitter.com/8rvdVpxiTg</a></p>
— Chowkidar of Bharat Mata 🇮🇳 @ Bharat sewak (@Vineet71247985) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vineet71247985/status/1139064558750797825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Imran Tahir celebrating his wicket in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCWorldCup2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/3SbXDoc45K">pic.twitter.com/3SbXDoc45K</a></p>
— Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atheist_Krishna/status/1139174750863876096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And the winner of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCWorldCup2019</a> is? <a href="https://t.co/xZ7cxa7Ssf">pic.twitter.com/xZ7cxa7Ssf</a></p>
— Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atheist_Krishna/status/1139188789111169026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>New Zealand top the table with seven points, two ahead of India who have played one game fewer.</p>


The Cricket World Cup match between India and New Zealand has been called off due to rain without a ball being bowled at Trent Bridge on Thursday. A soggy outfield from overnight showers had already delayed the start of the contest between the tournament's only two unbeaten sides.

The Cricket World Cup match between India and New Zealand has been called off due to rain without a ball being bowled at Trent Bridge on Thursday. A soggy outfield from overnight showers had already delayed the start of the contest between the tournament's only two unbeaten sides. This was the fourth match to be either called off or abandoned in the rain-hit tournament. In pics: Week 2 of World Cup marred by controversies, injuries and washouts As one of the most anticipated matches was abandoned, the fans and spectators were looked frustrated. A few of the fans expressed their exasperation via hilarious memes. Look at some of them: Summary of the match pic.twitter.com/GESeXrXQCu — Telugu Cinema Fun (@TCinemaFun) June 13, 2019 × pic.twitter.com/IiYvkoZXnb — என்ன கொடுமை சரவணன் (@Kamarde97274977) June 13, 2019 × #ChangeTheVenue #cwc19 pic.twitter.com/PmxOiU1ydS — Silent Spectator 🇮🇳 (@Doc_J_) June 13, 2019 × pic.twitter.com/gxhrZHZP4p — Zami (@aanas_zami) June 13, 2019 × pic.twitter.com/lFskS1xy1x — ᎧᏇᏗᎥᏕ ᏰᏂᏗᏖ (@OwaisBhat789) June 13, 2019 × #ICCWorldCup2019 #Nottingham #raining After flood warning issued in Nottingham pic.twitter.com/8rvdVpxiTg — Chowkidar of Bharat Mata 🇮🇳 @ Bharat sewak (@Vineet71247985) June 13, 2019 × Imran Tahir celebrating his wicket in #ICCWorldCup2019 pic.twitter.com/3SbXDoc45K — Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) June 13, 2019 × And the winner of #ICCWorldCup2019 is? pic.twitter.com/xZ7cxa7Ssf — Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) June 13, 2019 × New Zealand top the table with seven points, two ahead of India who have played one game fewer.

India vs New Zealand washout, frustrated fans come up with funny memes

<p>England fast bowler Mark Wood is a doubt for Friday's World Cup clash with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trevor-bayliss-will-have-to-live-with-the-sheldon-salute-says-jason-holder-226942">West Indies at Southampton</a> because of a flare-up of an ankle injury, captain Eoin Morgan said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Wood, who has taken four wickets in England's three matches so far, has struggled since the win over Bangladesh on Saturday.</p>

<p>The 29-year-old is the only worry for England ahead of the game with off-spinner Moeen Ali available following the birth of his daughter earlier this week while vice-captain Jos Buttler is expected to keep wicket following a hip problem.</p>

<p>"Jos is fully fit," Morgan told reporters after net practice on Thursday. "Mark Wood will have a fitness test in the morning.</p>

<p>"His ankle is swollen. He has not bowled for two days so we will see how he is, if he is sore then we may not take the risk.</p>

<p>"Mo's wife gave birth to a baby girl, all healthy and well, so it is great to see him back. We might go with four seamers or two spinners, whichever is more effective."</p>

<p>Morgan is expecting a tough battle against West Indies with whom they drew 2-2 with in a ODI series earlier this year.</p>

<p>Despite being ranked eighth in the ODI standings, West Indies have a potent attack featuring the likes of Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas and Carlos Brathwaite.</p>

<p>They also have the destructive batting of Chris Gayle, who averages 51.42 against Engkand in ODIs.</p>

<p>"They are a strong outfit, we expect the same tomorrow," said Morgan, whose side have beaten South Africa and Bangladesh but suffered a surprise defeat by Pakistan.</p>

<p>"They are explosive with the bat and a different challenge with the ball. The seamers are tall and they hit the wicket hard, for most of the time they play with one spinner."</p>


England fast bowler Mark Wood is a doubt for Friday's World Cup clash with West Indies at Southampton because of a flare-up of an ankle injury, captain Eoin Morgan said on Thursday.

England fast bowler Mark Wood is a doubt for Friday's World Cup clash with West Indies at Southampton because of a flare-up of an ankle injury, captain Eoin Morgan said on Thursday. Wood, who has taken four wickets in England's three matches so far, has struggled since the win over Bangladesh on Saturday. The 29-year-old is the only worry for England ahead of the game with off-spinner Moeen Ali available following the birth of his daughter earlier this week while vice-captain Jos Buttler is expected to keep wicket following a hip problem. "Jos is fully fit," Morgan told reporters after net practice on Thursday. "Mark Wood will have a fitness test in the morning. "His ankle is swollen. He has not bowled for two days so we will see how he is, if he is sore then we may not take the risk. "Mo's wife gave birth to a baby girl, all healthy and well, so it is great to see him back. We might go with four seamers or two spinners, whichever is more effective." Morgan is expecting a tough battle against West Indies with whom they drew 2-2 with in a ODI series earlier this year. Despite being ranked eighth in the ODI standings, West Indies have a potent attack featuring the likes of Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas and Carlos Brathwaite. They also have the destructive batting of Chris Gayle, who averages 51.42 against Engkand in ODIs. "They are a strong outfit, we expect the same tomorrow," said Morgan, whose side have beaten South Africa and Bangladesh but suffered a surprise defeat by Pakistan. "They are explosive with the bat and a different challenge with the ball. The seamers are tall and they hit the wicket hard, for most of the time they play with one spinner."

World Cup: England wait on Mark Wood's fitness for Windies clash

<p>West Indies bowler Sheldon Cottrell may have a special salute for England coach Trevor Bayliss when the two sides meet in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a> on Friday, but Jofra Archer could rain on that particular parade.</p>

<p>Archer, the young Barbados-born fast bowler now delivering for England after playing for West Indies under-19s, brings plenty of spice to the eagerly-awaited encounter at Southampton's Rose Bowl.</p>

<p>The match will be his first against the country he was also eligible to play for and one that will give West Indies fans plenty of time to appreciate a talent that slipped through their fingers.</p>

<p>Cottrell, whose flamboyant wicket-taking celebration involves a short march, stand to attention and salute to the pavilion, will meanwhile be doing his best to get on Bayliss's nerves.</p>

<p>The 56-year-old Australian told reporters on Wednesday that the 'Sheldon Salute' was enough to annoy anyone over the age of 40 and himself in particular.</p>

<p>"But every team has their way of celebrating and I'm sure other teams might not like the way we celebrate," Bayliss said.</p>

<p>"In the end, it's a young man's game. It's all entertainment. If it gets a bit of a laugh or a smile on people's faces so be it," he added.</p>

<p>West Indies captain Jason Holder was asked on Thursday whether Cottrell had "a nice, special salute" lined up for Bayliss, and he smiled.</p>

<p>"I don't think it will change, that's just Sheldon. I guess Trevor will just have learn to accept it," he replied.</p>

<p>Watching the West Indies batsmen smashing Archer's deliveries to the boundary might rank even higher on the satisfaction scale but Holder was keen to put the match into perspective.</p>

<p>"It's something that has been talked up in the press, in the media, and we are looking forward to the challenge against England," he said.</p>

<p>"I have seen Jofra over the years. He is obviously a Barbadian. He's grown up in Barbados playing cricket so what I'm seeing of Jofra doesn't surprise me. He is one of those guys who has always had ability and talent," added the captain.</p>

<p>"It is just unfortunate how things went in terms of his decision-making but he is a good talent."</p>

<p>The match, he emphasised, was against England, the pre-tournament favourites, and not just about one man.</p>

<p>Holder said the final team selection would be made on Friday, with all-rounder Andre Russell recovering well from a knee injury after being left out of the rain-abandoned match with South Africa.</p>

<p>"He is just one of those guys where we give him as much time as he possibly needs, so it all boils down to how he wakes up tomorrow morning and feels," said the captain.</p>


West Indies bowler Sheldon Cottrell may have a special salute for England coach Trevor Bayliss when the two sides meet in the World Cup on Friday, but Jofra Archer could rain on that particular parade.

West Indies bowler Sheldon Cottrell may have a special salute for England coach Trevor Bayliss when the two sides meet in the World Cup on Friday, but Jofra Archer could rain on that particular parade. Archer, the young Barbados-born fast bowler now delivering for England after playing for West Indies under-19s, brings plenty of spice to the eagerly-awaited encounter at Southampton's Rose Bowl. The match will be his first against the country he was also eligible to play for and one that will give West Indies fans plenty of time to appreciate a talent that slipped through their fingers. Cottrell, whose flamboyant wicket-taking celebration involves a short march, stand to attention and salute to the pavilion, will meanwhile be doing his best to get on Bayliss's nerves. The 56-year-old Australian told reporters on Wednesday that the 'Sheldon Salute' was enough to annoy anyone over the age of 40 and himself in particular. "But every team has their way of celebrating and I'm sure other teams might not like the way we celebrate," Bayliss said. "In the end, it's a young man's game. It's all entertainment. If it gets a bit of a laugh or a smile on people's faces so be it," he added. West Indies captain Jason Holder was asked on Thursday whether Cottrell had "a nice, special salute" lined up for Bayliss, and he smiled. "I don't think it will change, that's just Sheldon. I guess Trevor will just have learn to accept it," he replied. Watching the West Indies batsmen smashing Archer's deliveries to the boundary might rank even higher on the satisfaction scale but Holder was keen to put the match into perspective. "It's something that has been talked up in the press, in the media, and we are looking forward to the challenge against England," he said. "I have seen Jofra over the years. He is obviously a Barbadian. He's grown up in Barbados playing cricket so what I'm seeing of Jofra doesn't surprise me. He is one of those guys who has always had ability and talent," added the captain. "It is just unfortunate how things went in terms of his decision-making but he is a good talent." The match, he emphasised, was against England, the pre-tournament favourites, and not just about one man. Holder said the final team selection would be made on Friday, with all-rounder Andre Russell recovering well from a knee injury after being left out of the rain-abandoned match with South Africa. "He is just one of those guys where we give him as much time as he possibly needs, so it all boils down to how he wakes up tomorrow morning and feels," said the captain.

Trevor Bayliss will have to live with the 'Sheldon Salute', says Jason Holder

<p>Inclement English weather claimed yet another World Cup match after India's group game against 2015 finalists New Zealand was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-18-india-vs-new-zealand-226804">called off without a ball being bowled</a> at Trent Bridge on Thursday.</p>

<p>A soggy outfield from overnight showers had already delayed the start of the contest between the tournament's only two unbeaten side.</p>

<p>Umpires Marais Erasmus and Paul Reiffel carried out almost hourly inspections in the intermittent drizzle before finally throwing in the towel in the afternoon.</p>

<p>The umpires said, "It's been unfortunate but that's the way it is. The groundstaff did their best but the weather 48 hours prior to today made it really difficult for them."</p>

<p>This was the fourth match to be either called off or abandoned in the rain-hit tournament with many questioning the absence of reserve days for group matches.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Unfortunately, India's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> game against New Zealand has been called off due to the rain 😭.<br />
<br />
The points have been shared.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlackcaps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlackcaps</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sr4qlzDriJ">pic.twitter.com/Sr4qlzDriJ</a></p>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1139170816371953664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>New Zealand top the table with seven points, two ahead of India who have played one game fewer.</p>


Inclement English weather claimed yet another World Cup match after India's group game against 2015 finalists New Zealand was called off without a ball being bowled at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Inclement English weather claimed yet another World Cup match after India's group game against 2015 finalists New Zealand was called off without a ball being bowled at Trent Bridge on Thursday. A soggy outfield from overnight showers had already delayed the start of the contest between the tournament's only two unbeaten side. Umpires Marais Erasmus and Paul Reiffel carried out almost hourly inspections in the intermittent drizzle before finally throwing in the towel in the afternoon. The umpires said, "It's been unfortunate but that's the way it is. The groundstaff did their best but the weather 48 hours prior to today made it really difficult for them." This was the fourth match to be either called off or abandoned in the rain-hit tournament with many questioning the absence of reserve days for group matches. Unfortunately, India's #CWC19 game against New Zealand has been called off due to the rain 😭. The points have been shared.#TeamIndia | #BackTheBlackcaps pic.twitter.com/Sr4qlzDriJ — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 13, 2019 × New Zealand top the table with seven points, two ahead of India who have played one game fewer.

World Cup: India and New Zealand split points after Trent Bridge washout

<p>Opener David Warner, who Wednesday scored his first century since completing the ball-tampering ban, said the knock in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">World Cup game against Pakistan</a> "means a lot" to him as a batsman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Seeking to silence his doubters, Warner made 107 off 111 balls, a few days after his uncharacteristic half-century against India surprised the cricket fraternity.</p>

<p>Conditions were testing and up against a quality attack, Warner had to be cautious after Pakistan put Australia in.</p>

<p>"There was a bit of movement early on, so I had to be a lot tighter. This century means a lot as a batsman. Some great efforts from Pakistan. Our bowlers were fantastic but it was a great game," the opener said at the post-match presentation ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia won the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">match by 41 runs</a>.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">David Warner's iconic celebration is back.<br />
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His century means he's today's Player of the Match. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CmonAussie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CmonAussie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/a6OLgFCBdH">pic.twitter.com/a6OLgFCBdH</a></p>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1138856492193464321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australia were cruising after Warner and skipper Aaron Finch (82) laid a stromg foundation with a 14-run opening stand. But Mohammad Amir bowled beautifully in his second spell to return his best ODI figures of 5/30 and stop the defending champions at 307.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When I got out, we had 70 balls to go. As a batter, you want to bat 50 overs. We should've been around 340-350, credit to Pakistan's bowlers. Their second spells were outstanding and they made it hard for us. It was a used wicket; it was a tad dry and they bowled very straight lines to me and gave me no width," Man of the Match Warner added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reeling at 160 for six in the 30th over, Pakistan's rearguard act did put Australia under pressure, Finch admitted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Certainly did put us under pressure. Guys like Hassan and Wahab are good strikers of the ball. Hard to stop when they're on a roll. Just had to bowl our best ball, whether it's a length ball or yorker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you're slightly off, on a small ground like this, you're punished. Didn't bat out our fifty overs which was disappointing. When you go with an extra batter, you back the batsmen to do the job," Finch said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed was disappointed after his side's second defeat of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Definitely very disappointing. Lost three wickets in 15 balls from 140/3. To take positives, Hassan Ali batted well, Wahab batted well. Fought in the end but could not finish it off well. Except Amir, others did not bowl well," Sarfaraz said.</p>


Opener David Warner, who Wednesday scored his first century since completing the ball-tampering ban, said the knock in the World Cup game against Pakistan "means a lot" to him as a batsman.

Opener David Warner, who Wednesday scored his first century since completing the ball-tampering ban, said the knock in the World Cup game against Pakistan "means a lot" to him as a batsman. Seeking to silence his doubters, Warner made 107 off 111 balls, a few days after his uncharacteristic half-century against India surprised the cricket fraternity. Conditions were testing and up against a quality attack, Warner had to be cautious after Pakistan put Australia in. "There was a bit of movement early on, so I had to be a lot tighter. This century means a lot as a batsman. Some great efforts from Pakistan. Our bowlers were fantastic but it was a great game," the opener said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Australia won the match by 41 runs. David Warner's iconic celebration is back. His century means he's today's Player of the Match. #CmonAussie #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/a6OLgFCBdH — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 12, 2019 × Australia were cruising after Warner and skipper Aaron Finch (82) laid a stromg foundation with a 14-run opening stand. But Mohammad Amir bowled beautifully in his second spell to return his best ODI figures of 5/30 and stop the defending champions at 307. "When I got out, we had 70 balls to go. As a batter, you want to bat 50 overs. We should've been around 340-350, credit to Pakistan's bowlers. Their second spells were outstanding and they made it hard for us. It was a used wicket; it was a tad dry and they bowled very straight lines to me and gave me no width," Man of the Match Warner added. Reeling at 160 for six in the 30th over, Pakistan's rearguard act did put Australia under pressure, Finch admitted. "Certainly did put us under pressure. Guys like Hassan and Wahab are good strikers of the ball. Hard to stop when they're on a roll. Just had to bowl our best ball, whether it's a length ball or yorker. "When you're slightly off, on a small ground like this, you're punished. Didn't bat out our fifty overs which was disappointing. When you go with an extra batter, you back the batsmen to do the job," Finch said. Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed was disappointed after his side's second defeat of the tournament. "Definitely very disappointing. Lost three wickets in 15 balls from 140/3. To take positives, Hassan Ali batted well, Wahab batted well. Fought in the end but could not finish it off well. Except Amir, others did not bowl well," Sarfaraz said.

This century means a lot as a batsman: David Warner

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-17-australia-vs-pakistan-226457">Australia&nbsp;beat Pakistan</a> by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday after David Warner hit his first international century following his return from a ball-tampering ban.</p>

<p>Warner made 107 and, with Australia captain Aaron Finch (82), got the defending champions off to a flying start with an opening stand of 146 -- the highest partnership for any wicket at this World Cup to date.</p>

<p>Mohammad Amir dragged Pakistan back into the game with career-best figures of five for 30 in 10 overs but Australia still managed to post a challenging score of 307, which ultimately proved beyond their opponents.</p>

<p>"It means a lot to a batter to get a century," said man-of-the-match Warner. "It was a great effort from Pakistan in the end but our bowlers bowled excellent. They probably got closer than we expected."</p>

<p>Pakistan, after a middle-order collapse that saw them lose three wickets for 11 runs in 15 balls, were all but beaten at 200 for seven in the 34th over.</p>

<p>But captain Sarfaraz Ahmed (40) and the big-hitting Wahab Riaz (45) gave them renewed hope with a stand of 64.</p>

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<p>Australia, who lost to India on Sunday, were again looking to Mitchell Starc to get them out of a tight spot, as had done in an earlier win over the West Indies and the fast bowler duly delivered with 2-43.</p>

<p>He had Wahab caught behind got off a thin edge, although it needed an Australia review of an original not out decision to leave Pakistan 264-8</p>

<p>Two balls later, Amir played on for a duck before Glenn Maxwell ended the match with a brilliant direct hit run out of Sarfaraz.</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan chase</strong></p>

<p>Pakistan's chase started badly when Fakhar Zaman fell for a duck uppercutting Cummins to Kane Richardson at third man.</p>

<p>Babar Azam was in superb touch, with 28 of his 30 runs coming in fours, before he mishooked Nathan Coulter-Nile to deep backward square leg.</p>

<p>Opener Imam-ul-Haq was upping the tempo in his 53 when he gloved Pat Cummins (3-33) down the legside to wicket-keeper Alex Carey.</p>

<p>Finch, an occasional slow bowler, grabbed a real bonus wicket when Mohammad Hafeez (46) hit a rank full toss straight to Starc at deep square leg.</p>

<p>And when Shoaib Malik was brilliantly caught for nought by a diving Carey after inside edging Cummins, Pakistan were in dire straits at 147-5.</p>

<p>Both Warner and Steve Smith, also returning from a year-long ban for ball-tampering, had been jeered by fans in previous games but Pakistan fans largely heeded an appeal from Sarfaraz not to boo the pair, preferring to roar chants of "Amir!, Amir!".&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Match 17" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ac608931-0ef5-40cb-96d8-83de474cd86c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/macth%2017.jpg" /></p>

<p>Warner completed his 15th one-day international hundred when an edge off Shaheen Shah Afridi flew past slip for four.</p>

<p>An elated Warner leapt in the air in celebration but his 111-ball innings ended soon afterwards when he was caught at point off Shaheen, having gone past fifty for the third time in four innings at this World Cup.</p>

<p>"I'm very disappointed," said Sarfaraz. "We lost three wickets in 15 balls and that's why we lost.</p>

<p>"We conceded too many runs in the first 20 overs apart from Mohammad Amir. We came back and restricted them well but it was a 270-280 pitch.</p>

<p>"We made some runs and got starts but we've got to convert them and go long. If you want to win matches your top four must score runs."</p>

<p>Australia have three wins in four matches while Pakistan are struggling, with just one victory in their four games so far</p>


Australia beat Pakistan by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday after David Warner hit his first international century following his return from a ball-tampering ban.

Australia beat Pakistan by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday after David Warner hit his first international century following his return from a ball-tampering ban. Warner made 107 and, with Australia captain Aaron Finch (82), got the defending champions off to a flying start with an opening stand of 146 -- the highest partnership for any wicket at this World Cup to date. Mohammad Amir dragged Pakistan back into the game with career-best figures of five for 30 in 10 overs but Australia still managed to post a challenging score of 307, which ultimately proved beyond their opponents. "It means a lot to a batter to get a century," said man-of-the-match Warner. "It was a great effort from Pakistan in the end but our bowlers bowled excellent. They probably got closer than we expected." Pakistan, after a middle-order collapse that saw them lose three wickets for 11 runs in 15 balls, were all but beaten at 200 for seven in the 34th over. But captain Sarfaraz Ahmed (40) and the big-hitting Wahab Riaz (45) gave them renewed hope with a stand of 64. What a difference 15 minutes makes!#CWC19 | #CmonAussie pic.twitter.com/uDCXmIhNOV — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 12, 2019 × Australia, who lost to India on Sunday, were again looking to Mitchell Starc to get them out of a tight spot, as had done in an earlier win over the West Indies and the fast bowler duly delivered with 2-43. He had Wahab caught behind got off a thin edge, although it needed an Australia review of an original not out decision to leave Pakistan 264-8 Two balls later, Amir played on for a duck before Glenn Maxwell ended the match with a brilliant direct hit run out of Sarfaraz. Pakistan chase Pakistan's chase started badly when Fakhar Zaman fell for a duck uppercutting Cummins to Kane Richardson at third man. Babar Azam was in superb touch, with 28 of his 30 runs coming in fours, before he mishooked Nathan Coulter-Nile to deep backward square leg. Opener Imam-ul-Haq was upping the tempo in his 53 when he gloved Pat Cummins (3-33) down the legside to wicket-keeper Alex Carey. Finch, an occasional slow bowler, grabbed a real bonus wicket when Mohammad Hafeez (46) hit a rank full toss straight to Starc at deep square leg. And when Shoaib Malik was brilliantly caught for nought by a diving Carey after inside edging Cummins, Pakistan were in dire straits at 147-5. Both Warner and Steve Smith, also returning from a year-long ban for ball-tampering, had been jeered by fans in previous games but Pakistan fans largely heeded an appeal from Sarfaraz not to boo the pair, preferring to roar chants of "Amir!, Amir!". Warner completed his 15th one-day international hundred when an edge off Shaheen Shah Afridi flew past slip for four. An elated Warner leapt in the air in celebration but his 111-ball innings ended soon afterwards when he was caught at point off Shaheen, having gone past fifty for the third time in four innings at this World Cup. "I'm very disappointed," said Sarfaraz. "We lost three wickets in 15 balls and that's why we lost. "We conceded too many runs in the first 20 overs apart from Mohammad Amir. We came back and restricted them well but it was a 270-280 pitch. "We made some runs and got starts but we've got to convert them and go long. If you want to win matches your top four must score runs." Australia have three wins in four matches while Pakistan are struggling, with just one victory in their four games so far

World Cup: David Warner stars in Australia's 41-run win over Pakistan

<p>New Zealand's steady supply of left-handed batsmen will come in handy in Thursday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a> match against an Indian team without that variety in their top order, senior Kiwi batsman Ross Taylor said on the eve of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Opener Shikhar Dhawan's injury has not only robbed India of a left-right pair at the top of their order but has also left the two-times champions without a southpaw in the top half of their batting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In contrast, New Zealand have three left-handers in their top six, including opener Colin Munro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Obviously Shikhar is a big loss to India," Taylor told reporters at Trent Bridge on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He and Rohit Sharma have a very good partnership, and I think they complement each other well because they're right and left-handed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think we've had a similar balanced side for a long time, and when you do have a right-left hand combination, it does put pressure in different ways on the bowling opposition."</p>

<p>A left-right combination forces bowlers to alter line and length while the fielding captain is also compelled to tinker with field settings every time the batsmen change ends.</p>

<p>Taylor said such variety in the batting lineup was necessary to make the most of the World Cup grounds.</p>

<p>"A lot of these grounds in the UK have a short boundary to one side, and if you've got two right-handers or two left-handers, you can't exploit it as much...</p>

<p>"It's traditionally a short boundary here. If that is the case, then hopefully we can exploit it with the right and left-handers."</p>

<p>A lot will depend on how New Zealand fare against the wrist-spin of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav but the 35-year-old Taylor reckoned the duo might bowl slightly more defensively at Trent Bridge.</p>

<p>"Shorter boundaries can sometimes play in the minds of the spinners, one might spin a little bit more defensive, but with the weather around and so much uncertainty, we'll just have to wait and see," he said.</p>

<p>The 2015 finalists have made a perfect start in their quest for a maiden World Cup title, winning their first three matches before the tournament was hit by poor weather, which has already resulted in three matches being either called off or abandoned.</p>

<p>"I said at the start of the tournament that luck is going to play a part," Taylor said.</p>

<p>"England is a beautiful place, but it's not famous for good weather. In saying that, there's still a long way to go in this tournament. I'm sure there's going to be rained out games that could have freaked us along the way."</p>


New Zealand's steady supply of left-handed batsmen will come in handy in Thursday's World Cup match against an Indian team without that variety in their top order, senior Kiwi batsman Ross Taylor said on the eve of the match.

New Zealand's steady supply of left-handed batsmen will come in handy in Thursday's World Cup match against an Indian team without that variety in their top order, senior Kiwi batsman Ross Taylor said on the eve of the match. Opener Shikhar Dhawan's injury has not only robbed India of a left-right pair at the top of their order but has also left the two-times champions without a southpaw in the top half of their batting. In contrast, New Zealand have three left-handers in their top six, including opener Colin Munro. "Obviously Shikhar is a big loss to India," Taylor told reporters at Trent Bridge on Wednesday. "He and Rohit Sharma have a very good partnership, and I think they complement each other well because they're right and left-handed. "I think we've had a similar balanced side for a long time, and when you do have a right-left hand combination, it does put pressure in different ways on the bowling opposition." A left-right combination forces bowlers to alter line and length while the fielding captain is also compelled to tinker with field settings every time the batsmen change ends. Taylor said such variety in the batting lineup was necessary to make the most of the World Cup grounds. "A lot of these grounds in the UK have a short boundary to one side, and if you've got two right-handers or two left-handers, you can't exploit it as much... "It's traditionally a short boundary here. If that is the case, then hopefully we can exploit it with the right and left-handers." A lot will depend on how New Zealand fare against the wrist-spin of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav but the 35-year-old Taylor reckoned the duo might bowl slightly more defensively at Trent Bridge. "Shorter boundaries can sometimes play in the minds of the spinners, one might spin a little bit more defensive, but with the weather around and so much uncertainty, we'll just have to wait and see," he said. The 2015 finalists have made a perfect start in their quest for a maiden World Cup title, winning their first three matches before the tournament was hit by poor weather, which has already resulted in three matches being either called off or abandoned. "I said at the start of the tournament that luck is going to play a part," Taylor said. "England is a beautiful place, but it's not famous for good weather. In saying that, there's still a long way to go in this tournament. I'm sure there's going to be rained out games that could have freaked us along the way."

New Zealand to reap left-right benefit against India: Ross Taylor