Indian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> has made a witty remark on his bowling skills, saying that no one in the team takes his bowling seriously except himself.&nbsp;

In a recent practice session, Kohli was seen bowling in the nets ahead of India's World Cup campaign opener against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

Kohli also explained why his teammates do not believe in his bowling and why he has not bowled in international cricket since December 2017.&nbsp;

During an interview, he said, "It was the during the ODI series in Sri Lanka (in 2017) where we had almost won everything, I asked MS (Dhoni) if I could bowl. Just when I was getting ready to roll my arm over, Bumrah (Jasprit) shouted from the boundary and said 'no joking around, it is an international game'."&nbsp;

"No one in the team believes in my bowling but I do," he added.&nbsp;

After that I had back issues and then never bowled (in the middle)," said Kohli to host broadcaster of the World Cup.

Watch Kohli bowling in the nets:

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A little warm-up before hitting the nets for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/OlwbKq0czD">pic.twitter.com/OlwbKq0czD</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1134035787064991744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Talking about his bowling skills, Kohli has taken four wickets in ODIs and as many in T20s.&nbsp;

He has bowled 163 balls in Test cricket but the wickets column remains empty.

During the same interview, Kohli also shared that he used to England's James Anderson's bowling action and shared an anecdote.&nbsp;

"I used to follow James Anderson's action when I was at the academy (in Delhi). Later, when I got to play alongside him, I told him about that story. We both had a good laugh over it," Kohli said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has made a witty remark on his bowling skills, saying that no one in the team takes his bowling seriously except himself. In a recent practice session, Kohli was seen bowling in the nets ahead of India's World Cup campaign opener against South Africa on June 5.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has made a witty remark on his bowling skills, saying that no one in the team takes his bowling seriously except himself. In a recent practice session, Kohli was seen bowling in the nets ahead of India's World Cup campaign opener against South Africa on June 5. Kohli also explained why his teammates do not believe in his bowling and why he has not bowled in international cricket since December 2017. During an interview, he said, "It was the during the ODI series in Sri Lanka (in 2017) where we had almost won everything, I asked MS (Dhoni) if I could bowl. Just when I was getting ready to roll my arm over, Bumrah (Jasprit) shouted from the boundary and said 'no joking around, it is an international game'." "No one in the team believes in my bowling but I do," he added. After that I had back issues and then never bowled (in the middle)," said Kohli to host broadcaster of the World Cup. Watch Kohli bowling in the nets: A little warm-up before hitting the nets for #TeamIndia Skipper @imVkohli.#CWC19 pic.twitter.com/OlwbKq0czD — BCCI (@BCCI) May 30, 2019 × Talking about his bowling skills, Kohli has taken four wickets in ODIs and as many in T20s. He has bowled 163 balls in Test cricket but the wickets column remains empty. During the same interview, Kohli also shared that he used to England's James Anderson's bowling action and shared an anecdote. "I used to follow James Anderson's action when I was at the academy (in Delhi). Later, when I got to play alongside him, I told him about that story. We both had a good laugh over it," Kohli said. (With inputs from agencies)

'No one in the team believes in my bowling,' says Virat Kohli

Bangladesh have achieved their highest One-Day International score while playing their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Sunday at the The Oval.&nbsp;

Their previous highest ODI total was 329 for six against Pakistan, which was scored&nbsp;in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After&nbsp;Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan put together a record partnership,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-5-bangladesh-v-south-africa-223604">Bangladesh reached 330 for six wickets</a>.&nbsp;

Mushfiqur made 78 from 80 balls and Shakib's 75 came from 84 balls as the pair combined in a 142-run partnership.&nbsp;

Bangladesh dominated the game and left the South African bowlers with no answers.&nbsp;

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3️⃣3️⃣0️⃣ - 6️⃣ 
 
First game of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> – what a time for Bangladesh to hit their highest-ever ODI total! 
 
WATCH ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/oJHzBZKxLA">https://t.co/oJHzBZKxLA</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1135186018808868864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;South Africa's gamble of putting Bangladesh into bat and hoping to bounce them out cheaply with their pace attack fell flat on a docile wicket.

Adding to that, the team was exacerbated by a hamstring injury to opening bowler Lungi Ngidi, who left the field after bowling just four overs.&nbsp;

Bangladesh have achieved their highest One-Day International score while playing their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Sunday at the The Oval.

Bangladesh have achieved their highest One-Day International score while playing their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Sunday at the The Oval. Their previous highest ODI total was 329 for six against Pakistan, which was scored in 2015. After Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan put together a record partnership, Bangladesh reached 330 for six wickets. Mushfiqur made 78 from 80 balls and Shakib's 75 came from 84 balls as the pair combined in a 142-run partnership. Bangladesh dominated the game and left the South African bowlers with no answers. 3️⃣3️⃣0️⃣ - 6️⃣ First game of #CWC19 – what a time for Bangladesh to hit their highest-ever ODI total! WATCH ⬇️ https://t.co/oJHzBZKxLA — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 2, 2019 × Earlier, South Africa's gamble of putting Bangladesh into bat and hoping to bounce them out cheaply with their pace attack fell flat on a docile wicket. Adding to that, the team was exacerbated by a hamstring injury to opening bowler Lungi Ngidi, who left the field after bowling just four overs.

World Cup: Record partnership spurs Bangladesh to score their highest ODI total

Australia has warned Chris Gayle and company to be ready for 'chin music' when it takes on West Indies in its second ICC World Cup game at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday.&nbsp;

Australia pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile said they are ready to give West Indies a taste of its own medicine - bouncers - to keep Gayle and company in check.

"You've got to give it (bowl bouncers) to the Windies, otherwise they just get on the front foot and pogo you everywhere," said the right-arm quick after Australia's seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in its World Cup opener here on Saturday.

"We'll definitely give it to them - we give it to every team. You've got to use your two (permitted bouncers per over).

"The grounds are so small and the wickets are generally pretty flat, so you've got to use bouncers when you can," he added.

In Coulter-Nile, Mitchel Starc and Pat Cummins, Australia boast of a fiery pace battery.

Coulter-Nile's statement came close on the heels of West Indies' devastating fast-bowling display against Pakistan, bundling out the opposition for just 105 in 21.4 overs.&nbsp;

Coulter-Nile said Australian bowlers need to be aggressive upfront against a batsman of Gayle's calibre.

"Oh Starcy (Mitchell Starc) will knock his off pole out. It will be easy," he said jokingly about the 39-year-old Gayle.&nbsp;

"You know he's going to hit your good balls for four and hit your bad balls for six. Just keep as bowling as many good balls as you can we'll stick a few up him.

"I think you just need to be aggressive at him. He's still smacking them but he is getting older. I don't know if he's faced too much of Starcy and Paddy (Pat Cummins) recently but they're bowling quick. So we'll see how he handles that early," Coulter-Nile added.

Australia has warned Chris Gayle and company to be ready for 'chin music' when it takes on West Indies in its second ICC World Cup game at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday.

Australia has warned Chris Gayle and company to be ready for 'chin music' when it takes on West Indies in its second ICC World Cup game at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday. Australia pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile said they are ready to give West Indies a taste of its own medicine - bouncers - to keep Gayle and company in check. "You've got to give it (bowl bouncers) to the Windies, otherwise they just get on the front foot and pogo you everywhere," said the right-arm quick after Australia's seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in its World Cup opener here on Saturday. "We'll definitely give it to them - we give it to every team. You've got to use your two (permitted bouncers per over). "The grounds are so small and the wickets are generally pretty flat, so you've got to use bouncers when you can," he added. In Coulter-Nile, Mitchel Starc and Pat Cummins, Australia boast of a fiery pace battery. Coulter-Nile's statement came close on the heels of West Indies' devastating fast-bowling display against Pakistan, bundling out the opposition for just 105 in 21.4 overs. Coulter-Nile said Australian bowlers need to be aggressive upfront against a batsman of Gayle's calibre. "Oh Starcy (Mitchell Starc) will knock his off pole out. It will be easy," he said jokingly about the 39-year-old Gayle. "You know he's going to hit your good balls for four and hit your bad balls for six. Just keep as bowling as many good balls as you can we'll stick a few up him. "I think you just need to be aggressive at him. He's still smacking them but he is getting older. I don't know if he's faced too much of Starcy and Paddy (Pat Cummins) recently but they're bowling quick. So we'll see how he handles that early," Coulter-Nile added.

Nathan Coulter-Nile warns Windies, says be ready for chin music

India were dealt a major injury scare before their World Cup opener against South Africa on Wednesday when skipper Virat Kohli hurt his thumb <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indian-team-practice-ahead-of-their-campaign-opener-223511">during a training session</a> at the Ageas Bowl here.&nbsp;

Kohli hurt his right thumb during practice on Saturday, prompting physiotherapist Patrick Farhat to attend to the Indian skipper.

Farhat was first seen using magic spray on the injured finger and the applied tap on it.

Later Kohli was seen leaving the field with his thumb dipped in a glass of ice.

The extent of Kohli's injury is still unclear as the Indian team management is yet to come out with an official comment on the matter.

India, one of the favourites for the title, has been hit by injuries in the run up to the World Cup.&nbsp;

While all-rounder Vijay Shankar had to sit out of the warm-up game against New Zealand after hurting his elbow, Kedar Jadhav is still recovering from a shoulder injury he picked up during IPL and missed India's both warm-up games against the Kiwis and Bangladesh.

India were dealt a major injury scare before their World Cup opener against South Africa on Wednesday when skipper Virat Kohli hurt his thumb during a training session at the Ageas Bowl here.

India were dealt a major injury scare before their World Cup opener against South Africa on Wednesday when skipper Virat Kohli hurt his thumb during a training session at the Ageas Bowl here. Kohli hurt his right thumb during practice on Saturday, prompting physiotherapist Patrick Farhat to attend to the Indian skipper. Farhat was first seen using magic spray on the injured finger and the applied tap on it. Later Kohli was seen leaving the field with his thumb dipped in a glass of ice. The extent of Kohli's injury is still unclear as the Indian team management is yet to come out with an official comment on the matter. India, one of the favourites for the title, has been hit by injuries in the run up to the World Cup. While all-rounder Vijay Shankar had to sit out of the warm-up game against New Zealand after hurting his elbow, Kedar Jadhav is still recovering from a shoulder injury he picked up during IPL and missed India's both warm-up games against the Kiwis and Bangladesh.

Injury scare for India, skipper Virat Kohli hurts thumb during training

Bangladesh faced a major blow as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-south-africa-aim-to-bounce-back-against-injury-stricken-bangladesh-223395#experienced-iqbal-unfit-along-with-mustafizur-mahmudullah-223390">Tamim Iqbal's wrist injury</a> leaves him uncertain for his side's opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-south-africa-aim-to-bounce-back-against-injury-stricken-bangladesh-223395#bangladesh-vs-south-africa-223383">fixture against South Africa</a> in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

The 30-year-old left the field immediately after he was struck a blow on his left wrist during his team's practice session on Friday.

According to Bangladesh Cricket Board officials, Tamim had a precautionary X-ray which showed no fracture, but bruising and swelling might just rule the left-hander out of Sunday's game.

The board further said all-rounder Saifuddin, who is recovering from a back problem is expected to take painkillers to make himself available for the game, ICC reported.

"It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available. But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game," selector Habibul Bashar had said before the X-ray scan.

Tamim will undergo another test on Sunday. Based on the result, a decision on his availability will be taken.

The left-hander was forced to miss the warm-up match against India due to pain in his thigh muscle. Tamim's absence will hurt Bangladesh as he has been prolific run-scorer in the top-order.

Bangladesh is already worried about the fitness of Mashrafe Mortaza, Mustafizur Rahman and Mahmudullah, who are suffering from hamstring, calf and shoulder issues respectively.

Bangladesh will begin its World Cup campaign against South Africa at The Oval, London on June 2.

Bangladesh faced a major blow as Tamim Iqbal's wrist injury leaves him uncertain for his side's opening fixture against South Africa in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Bangladesh faced a major blow as Tamim Iqbal's wrist injury leaves him uncertain for his side's opening fixture against South Africa in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. The 30-year-old left the field immediately after he was struck a blow on his left wrist during his team's practice session on Friday. According to Bangladesh Cricket Board officials, Tamim had a precautionary X-ray which showed no fracture, but bruising and swelling might just rule the left-hander out of Sunday's game. The board further said all-rounder Saifuddin, who is recovering from a back problem is expected to take painkillers to make himself available for the game, ICC reported. "It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available. But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game," selector Habibul Bashar had said before the X-ray scan. Tamim will undergo another test on Sunday. Based on the result, a decision on his availability will be taken. The left-hander was forced to miss the warm-up match against India due to pain in his thigh muscle. Tamim's absence will hurt Bangladesh as he has been prolific run-scorer in the top-order. Bangladesh is already worried about the fitness of Mashrafe Mortaza, Mustafizur Rahman and Mahmudullah, who are suffering from hamstring, calf and shoulder issues respectively. Bangladesh will begin its World Cup campaign against South Africa at The Oval, London on June 2.

Tamim Iqbal to miss Bangladesh's first Cricket World Cup match

Ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup campaign</a> opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised&nbsp;throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

The head coach Ravi Shastri gave tips to the players and he was present during the practice sessions&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Rose Bowl stadium in Southampton.&nbsp;

India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

This was the team's second practice session and it lasted for more than three hours.&nbsp;

Apart from enhancing fielding skills, openers&nbsp;Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan spent time batting in the nets along with KL Rahul, who is almost final to play for India at the number four spot.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya was seen stretching his back due to some issue but later bowled in the nets.

Watch the video:

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Pace and spin in tandem in the nets 💪💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/UUKTPwvV7H">pic.twitter.com/UUKTPwvV7H</a>
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Caption this? 📸📸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/1anayWs7Gh">pic.twitter.com/1anayWs7Gh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1134825444824559616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Also, Kuldeep Yadav also looked in good shape after he missed the first practice session and bowled to Dhoni in the nets.

Ahead of their World Cup campaign opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni.

Ahead of their World Cup campaign opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni. The head coach Ravi Shastri gave tips to the players and he was present during the practice sessions at the Rose Bowl stadium in Southampton. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. This was the team's second practice session and it lasted for more than three hours. Apart from enhancing fielding skills, openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan spent time batting in the nets along with KL Rahul, who is almost final to play for India at the number four spot. Hardik Pandya was seen stretching his back due to some issue but later bowled in the nets. Watch the video: Pace and spin in tandem in the nets 💪💪#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/UUKTPwvV7H — BCCI (@BCCI) June 1, 2019 × Caption this? 📸📸#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/1anayWs7Gh — BCCI (@BCCI) June 1, 2019 × Also, Kuldeep Yadav also looked in good shape after he missed the first practice session and bowled to Dhoni in the nets.

Watch: Indian team practice ahead of their campaign opener

There’s a slight sense of déjà vu about New Zealand versus Sri Lanka in Cardiff, game three of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.

In 2015, in the similarly nondescript surroundings of Hagley Oval in Christchurch, the two teams played the first match of the World Cup. Like Hagley Oval, Sophia Gardens is surrounded by a perimeter of thick trees, their dense foliage acting as a pleasant backdrop to a small ground which is, a day before the match, populated by the Sri Lankan and New Zealand cricket teams, a fistful of reporters, a few from the TV crew and of course an array of ICC support and hospitality staff.

For added effect, the sky above is nearing a slate grey much as it was a day before New Zealand and Sri Lanka began the last World Cup four years ago.

Yes, déjà vu alright.

But that’s where the similarities end, even though the Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson admits it is a bit of a coincidence that his team is again opening their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka.

Four years ago, Williamson played the World Cup under the inspirational captaincy of Brendon McCullum and had a fairly muted tournament with the bat. McCullum is of course retired and Williamson is the captain of New Zealand, with a 34-29-2 record in ODIs.

His batting has remained as classy and dependable as it was under McCullum, and now Williamson will lead New Zealand against Sri Lanka in their opening match at Cardiff on Saturday.

Asked to look back at 2015, Williamson found the situation different but could identify a similar rush of positivity.

“Naturally a little bit different just being different seasons, I suppose. The last campaign we were playing a lot of cricket in our home summer, I guess in some ways preparing for the World Cup which was also at home,” he told reporters on Friday.

“Being over in this part of the world heading into winter at home meant it was a little bit different. We had IPL guys who were playing cricket in different parts, which was a good thing, and so we were able to make sure we were getting cricket in. There was some cricket in Australia. Everybody was playing, which was nice. I guess the difference between playing months together and then going into World Cup versus perhaps not and guys being quite excited to get back together as a group is still a positive thing.

“It [2015 World Cup] was a lot of fun and we really enjoyed that tournament. I guess we come to now and so many things are different and have changed and different personnel on both sides. I guess it’s coincidence that we’re playing each other again in our first matches. But, yeah, the focus is very much on our team, the sort of cricket that we want to be playing, the attitudes we want to be taking into the first match, and that’s where we’ll place our importance.”

New Zealand go into the World Cup after gap of a few months, having ended their home season in February. This year, in ODIs, they have swept Sri Lanka and Bangladesh 3-0 and lost to India 1-4, all at home. Post the Bangladesh series, some of their players went to play in the IPL. They are back together in England, having beaten India and lost to New Zealand in their two World Cup warm-ups.

Their opponents, Sri Lanka, have in 2019 been whitewashed by South Africa 0-5 after the winless tour of New Zealand. Most recently, they won an ODI against Scotland. They are a team flying very low under the radar, chiefly because of poor form and inconsistency, chopping and changing and the fact that their new captain, Dimuth Karuraratne had, before the aforementioned Scotland match, not played an ODI since the 2015 World Cup.

Smart man that he is, Williamson did not go anywhere near venturing to say that New Zealand have the upper hand over an opponent they last lost an ODI to in … wait for it … 2015.

“I don’t know how much the past really counts as we come into a tournament. It is on the day,” said Williamson. “We know in this competition that any team can beat any of the other teams, so we’re certainly treating all our matches like that. We want to bring the focus back to the cricket we want to play day in and day out.

“Naturally when you go through the tournament you play one country and you might have two or three days, play another country on another surface, and you’re trying to, I guess, stay up-to-date with the different I suppose plans that you’re adjusting with the different opposition.

“But our focus is much about the cricket that we want to play. We know the Sri Lankan side is a little bit different to the one we played at home, but we have no doubt they’re a tough side.”

So far, the sense of déjà vu lingers. Whether Sri Lanka smash that on Saturday with victory over New Zealand remains to be seen.

(This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the <a href="https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/cricket-world-cup-2015-firmly-behind-kane-williamsons-new-zealand-as-they-reunite-with-sri-lanka-850269">original article</a>)

There’s a slight sense of déjà vu about New Zealand versus Sri Lanka in Cardiff, game three of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. In 2015, in the similarly nondescript surroundings of Hagley Oval in Christchurch, the two teams played the first match of the World Cup.

There’s a slight sense of déjà vu about New Zealand versus Sri Lanka in Cardiff, game three of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. In 2015, in the similarly nondescript surroundings of Hagley Oval in Christchurch, the two teams played the first match of the World Cup. Like Hagley Oval, Sophia Gardens is surrounded by a perimeter of thick trees, their dense foliage acting as a pleasant backdrop to a small ground which is, a day before the match, populated by the Sri Lankan and New Zealand cricket teams, a fistful of reporters, a few from the TV crew and of course an array of ICC support and hospitality staff. For added effect, the sky above is nearing a slate grey much as it was a day before New Zealand and Sri Lanka began the last World Cup four years ago. Yes, déjà vu alright. But that’s where the similarities end, even though the Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson admits it is a bit of a coincidence that his team is again opening their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka. Four years ago, Williamson played the World Cup under the inspirational captaincy of Brendon McCullum and had a fairly muted tournament with the bat. McCullum is of course retired and Williamson is the captain of New Zealand, with a 34-29-2 record in ODIs. His batting has remained as classy and dependable as it was under McCullum, and now Williamson will lead New Zealand against Sri Lanka in their opening match at Cardiff on Saturday. Asked to look back at 2015, Williamson found the situation different but could identify a similar rush of positivity. “Naturally a little bit different just being different seasons, I suppose. The last campaign we were playing a lot of cricket in our home summer, I guess in some ways preparing for the World Cup which was also at home,” he told reporters on Friday. “Being over in this part of the world heading into winter at home meant it was a little bit different. We had IPL guys who were playing cricket in different parts, which was a good thing, and so we were able to make sure we were getting cricket in. There was some cricket in Australia. Everybody was playing, which was nice. I guess the difference between playing months together and then going into World Cup versus perhaps not and guys being quite excited to get back together as a group is still a positive thing. “It [2015 World Cup] was a lot of fun and we really enjoyed that tournament. I guess we come to now and so many things are different and have changed and different personnel on both sides. I guess it’s coincidence that we’re playing each other again in our first matches. But, yeah, the focus is very much on our team, the sort of cricket that we want to be playing, the attitudes we want to be taking into the first match, and that’s where we’ll place our importance.” New Zealand go into the World Cup after gap of a few months, having ended their home season in February. This year, in ODIs, they have swept Sri Lanka and Bangladesh 3-0 and lost to India 1-4, all at home. Post the Bangladesh series, some of their players went to play in the IPL. They are back together in England, having beaten India and lost to New Zealand in their two World Cup warm-ups. Their opponents, Sri Lanka, have in 2019 been whitewashed by South Africa 0-5 after the winless tour of New Zealand. Most recently, they won an ODI against Scotland. They are a team flying very low under the radar, chiefly because of poor form and inconsistency, chopping and changing and the fact that their new captain, Dimuth Karuraratne had, before the aforementioned Scotland match, not played an ODI since the 2015 World Cup. Smart man that he is, Williamson did not go anywhere near venturing to say that New Zealand have the upper hand over an opponent they last lost an ODI to in … wait for it … 2015. “I don’t know how much the past really counts as we come into a tournament. It is on the day,” said Williamson. “We know in this competition that any team can beat any of the other teams, so we’re certainly treating all our matches like that. We want to bring the focus back to the cricket we want to play day in and day out. “Naturally when you go through the tournament you play one country and you might have two or three days, play another country on another surface, and you’re trying to, I guess, stay up-to-date with the different I suppose plans that you’re adjusting with the different opposition. “But our focus is much about the cricket that we want to play. We know the Sri Lankan side is a little bit different to the one we played at home, but we have no doubt they’re a tough side.” So far, the sense of déjà vu lingers. Whether Sri Lanka smash that on Saturday with victory over New Zealand remains to be seen. (This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the original article)

Cricket World Cup: 2015 firmly behind Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they reunite with Sri Lanka

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his opinion after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-2-pakistan-vs-west-indies-223120">West Indies defeated Pakistan by seven wickets</a> in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

After hostile fast bowling by the West Indies, Pakistan slump to just 105 in a mere 21.4 overs at Trent Bridge on Friday.&nbsp;

It was their second-lowest World Cup total since a paltry 74 against England at Adelaide in 1992, the year Imran Khan's team went on to lift their only 50-overs crown.&nbsp;

West Indies achieved the target in 13.4 overs with the help of Chris Gayle's 34-ball 50 which included six fours and three sixes.&nbsp;

Now, the former pacer&nbsp;Shoaib Akhtar&nbsp;shared a video criticising the performance of Pakistani players.&nbsp;

He said that the players played "cowardly" against West Indies and they looked&nbsp;uninterested and divided.&nbsp;

He further added that the performance was disappointing.&nbsp;

The Rawalpindi Express gave a special mention to the skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed's&nbsp;fitness&nbsp;and especially pointed out his belly fat.&nbsp;

Shoaib said, "When Sarfaraz Ahmed came for the toss, his stomach was sticking out and his face was so fat. He's the first captain I've seen who is so unfit. He's not able to move across and he's struggling with wicket-keeping."&nbsp;

He requested the team to be more focused and wished them good luck for the upcoming matches.&nbsp;

Watch his reaction:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
It's a disappointing performance of Team Pakistan, let's not 
disheart them more and back them up<a href="https://t.co/8cFvg7YqwK">https://t.co/8cFvg7YqwK</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1134474599557734401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Although,&nbsp;Shoaib Akhtar was impressed by Mohammad Amir, who took&nbsp;three wickets for just 26 runs.&nbsp;

Pakistan next play England at Trent Bridge on Monday.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his opinion after West Indies defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his opinion after West Indies defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019. After hostile fast bowling by the West Indies, Pakistan slump to just 105 in a mere 21.4 overs at Trent Bridge on Friday. It was their second-lowest World Cup total since a paltry 74 against England at Adelaide in 1992, the year Imran Khan's team went on to lift their only 50-overs crown. West Indies achieved the target in 13.4 overs with the help of Chris Gayle's 34-ball 50 which included six fours and three sixes. Now, the former pacer Shoaib Akhtar shared a video criticising the performance of Pakistani players. He said that the players played "cowardly" against West Indies and they looked uninterested and divided. He further added that the performance was disappointing. The Rawalpindi Express gave a special mention to the skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed's fitness and especially pointed out his belly fat. Shoaib said, "When Sarfaraz Ahmed came for the toss, his stomach was sticking out and his face was so fat. He's the first captain I've seen who is so unfit. He's not able to move across and he's struggling with wicket-keeping." He requested the team to be more focused and wished them good luck for the upcoming matches. Watch his reaction: It's a disappointing performance of Team Pakistan, let's not disheart them more and back them uphttps://t.co/8cFvg7YqwK — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 31, 2019 × Although, Shoaib Akhtar was impressed by Mohammad Amir, who took three wickets for just 26 runs. Pakistan next play England at Trent Bridge on Monday.

Watch: Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar calls Sarfaraz Ahmed 'fat and unfit'

Kane Williamson-led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-3-new-zealand-vs-sri-lanka-223349">New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets</a>&nbsp;to open their World Cup campaign on a winning note at the Cardiff's Sophia Gardens on Saturday.&nbsp;

The openers Martin Guptill and Colin Munro completed their half-centuries to inspire the team towards victory.&nbsp;

Kiwis chased down the 137-run target in 16.1&nbsp;overs as earlier, New Zealand fast bowlers produced a clinical display to dismiss Sri Lanka for a paltry 136.&nbsp;

Kiwis skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and chose to bowl on a pitch so green that it was indistinguishable from the outfield, and he was rewarded when Matt Henry trapped Lankan opener Lahiru Thirimanne leg-before in the first over.&nbsp;

Canterbury seamer Henry, who conceded 107 runs in the warm-up match against West Indies earlier this week, continued his resurgence to remove Kusal Perera and Kusal Mendis in the ninth over to leave the Sri Lankan middle order exposed at 46-3.&nbsp;

Fast bowler Lockie Ferguson joined the party with two wickets in his first three overs, while Colin de Grandhomme claimed the prized wicket of the experience Angelo Mathews for a duck.&nbsp;

Match in numbers:

<img alt="Match 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d83f460c-496d-4385-9bc4-2a9973d7f873" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%203.jpg" />

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It took just 16.1 overs! 
 
Martin Guptill and Colin Munro’s half-centuries help the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BACKTHEBLACKCAPS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BACKTHEBLACKCAPS</a> to an all-too-easy 10-wicket victory against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LionsRoar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LionsRoar</a>. 
 
Ruthless. <a href="https://t.co/G2AgI8Lk92">pic.twitter.com/G2AgI8Lk92</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1134819642793504768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Captain Dimuth Karunaratne led the Sri Lankan recovery, carrying his bat through the innings with an unbeaten 52 to take the total past 100. But apart from all-rounder Thisara Perera (27), he received no support from the lower order as they were skittled out with 20.4 overs to spare.&nbsp;

Henry and Ferguson, who returned to remove Lasith Malinga to wrap up the innings, finished with three wickets apiece as Lanka finished with the lowest ODI total at Sophia Gardens - below their own record of 138 against the Kiwis in the 2013 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;

Completed scoreboard in the World Cup match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in Cardiff on Saturday:&nbsp;

Sri Lanka

Lahiru Thirimanne lbw b Henry 4

Dimuth Karunaratne not out 52

Kusal Perera c De Grandhomme b Henry 29

Kusal Mendis c Guptill b Henry 0

Dhananjaya de Silva lbw b Ferguson 4

Angelo Mathews c Latham b De Grandhomme 0

Jeevan Mendis c Neesham b Ferguson 1

Thisara Perera c Boult b Santner 27

Isuru Udana c Henry b Neesham 0

Suranga Lakmal c Santner b Boult 7

Lasith Malinga b Ferguson 1

Extras ((b1, nb2, w8) 11

Total (all out, 29.2 overs) 136

Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Thirimanne), 2-46 (K.Perera), 3-46 (K.Mendis), 4-53 (Ferguson), 5-59 (Mathews), 6-60 (J.Mendis), 7-112 (T.Perera), 8-114 (Udana), 9-130 (Lakmal), 10-136 (Malinga)

Bowling: Henry 7-0-29-3 (1w), Boult 9-0-44-1 (4w), Ferguson 6.2-0-22-3 (1w 1nb), De Grandhomme 2-0-14-1, Neesham 3-0-21-1 (1w, 1nb), Santner 2-0-5-1 (1w)

New Zealand:

M.Guptill not out 73

C.Munro not out 58

Extras (lb3, nb1, w2) 6

Total (no wickets, 16.1 overs) 137

Did not bat: K.Williamson, R.Taylor, T.Latham, J.Neesham, C. De Grandhomme, M.Santner, M.Henry, L.Ferguson, T.Boult.

Bowling: Malinga 5-0-46-0, Lakmal 4-0-28-0, Udana 3-0-24-0, T.Perera 3-0-25-0, J.Mendis 1.1-0-11-0

Kane Williamson-led New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets to open their World Cup campaign on a winning note at the Cardiff's Sophia Gardens on Saturday. The openers Martin Guptill and Colin Munro completed their half-centuries to inspire the team towards victory.

Kane Williamson-led New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets to open their World Cup campaign on a winning note at the Cardiff's Sophia Gardens on Saturday. The openers Martin Guptill and Colin Munro completed their half-centuries to inspire the team towards victory. Kiwis chased down the 137-run target in 16.1 overs as earlier, New Zealand fast bowlers produced a clinical display to dismiss Sri Lanka for a paltry 136. Kiwis skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and chose to bowl on a pitch so green that it was indistinguishable from the outfield, and he was rewarded when Matt Henry trapped Lankan opener Lahiru Thirimanne leg-before in the first over. Canterbury seamer Henry, who conceded 107 runs in the warm-up match against West Indies earlier this week, continued his resurgence to remove Kusal Perera and Kusal Mendis in the ninth over to leave the Sri Lankan middle order exposed at 46-3. Fast bowler Lockie Ferguson joined the party with two wickets in his first three overs, while Colin de Grandhomme claimed the prized wicket of the experience Angelo Mathews for a duck. Match in numbers: It took just 16.1 overs! Martin Guptill and Colin Munro’s half-centuries help the #BACKTHEBLACKCAPS to an all-too-easy 10-wicket victory against #LionsRoar. Ruthless. pic.twitter.com/G2AgI8Lk92 — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 1, 2019 × Captain Dimuth Karunaratne led the Sri Lankan recovery, carrying his bat through the innings with an unbeaten 52 to take the total past 100. But apart from all-rounder Thisara Perera (27), he received no support from the lower order as they were skittled out with 20.4 overs to spare. Henry and Ferguson, who returned to remove Lasith Malinga to wrap up the innings, finished with three wickets apiece as Lanka finished with the lowest ODI total at Sophia Gardens - below their own record of 138 against the Kiwis in the 2013 Champions Trophy. Completed scoreboard in the World Cup match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in Cardiff on Saturday: Sri Lanka Lahiru Thirimanne lbw b Henry 4 Dimuth Karunaratne not out 52 Kusal Perera c De Grandhomme b Henry 29 Kusal Mendis c Guptill b Henry 0 Dhananjaya de Silva lbw b Ferguson 4 Angelo Mathews c Latham b De Grandhomme 0 Jeevan Mendis c Neesham b Ferguson 1 Thisara Perera c Boult b Santner 27 Isuru Udana c Henry b Neesham 0 Suranga Lakmal c Santner b Boult 7 Lasith Malinga b Ferguson 1 Extras ((b1, nb2, w8) 11 Total (all out, 29.2 overs) 136 Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Thirimanne), 2-46 (K.Perera), 3-46 (K.Mendis), 4-53 (Ferguson), 5-59 (Mathews), 6-60 (J.Mendis), 7-112 (T.Perera), 8-114 (Udana), 9-130 (Lakmal), 10-136 (Malinga) Bowling: Henry 7-0-29-3 (1w), Boult 9-0-44-1 (4w), Ferguson 6.2-0-22-3 (1w 1nb), De Grandhomme 2-0-14-1, Neesham 3-0-21-1 (1w, 1nb), Santner 2-0-5-1 (1w) New Zealand: M.Guptill not out 73 C.Munro not out 58 Extras (lb3, nb1, w2) 6 Total (no wickets, 16.1 overs) 137 Did not bat: K.Williamson, R.Taylor, T.Latham, J.Neesham, C. De Grandhomme, M.Santner, M.Henry, L.Ferguson, T.Boult. Bowling: Malinga 5-0-46-0, Lakmal 4-0-28-0, Udana 3-0-24-0, T.Perera 3-0-25-0, J.Mendis 1.1-0-11-0

Cricket World Cup 2019: New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 10 wickets

Up front, seated a few feet away behind a table as he addressed the media gathered inside the basement of The Oval a day before the ICC Cricket World Cup begins, Faf du Plessis looks like he’s aged.

It’s not a slight. It’s in the context of his cricket; where he’s reached, what he’s gone through leading South Africa through some good times and some tough times, and of where he sits today. It is visible in the creases on his face and the way he his eyes slit when he emphasises certain words.

Du Plessis is only 34, but he looks like he’s been through a lot more.

In the context of where he and the South African cricket team are a day before the World Cup opener at The Oval against host and top-ranked England, du Plessis did not try and mask his emotions when asked about what he feels right now, about his career and his drive.

This is du Plessis’ third World Cup, and first as captain. Asked before the opener about about how he’s changed as a cricketer and individual, his answer was revealing: “Like anyone sitting here today, whether you’re playing cricket or in business or in life or in sport, it’s no different. You know, the older you get, the wiser you get. You know, being a father now, everything gets put into perspective.

“Cricket is a very important aspect of all of our lives, but it’s not everything. You know, life, there’s a lot more bigger things than winning and losing games of cricket. And that, perhaps, has changed for me. The fact that I’m no longer desperate; I want to win cricket games but I don’t need to win them.

“I think as a team, hopefully that can filter through, because no one taught me that four, five years ago, playing in these events, and hopefully that gives the guys on the rest of the team just a little bit more of a relaxedness to them; that the absolute worst-case scenario, you don’t make it, and that’s okay, life will go on. And if players are a little bit more free, and can just play their best version of themselves, then that’s great. That’s all I’m looking for.”

This should not come as bad news for South African cricket fans. Far from it. Du Plessis’ response reveals his state of mind, and it is refreshing. This is a game, after all, not war.

For du Plessis, winning cricket games at the World Cup is the target, definitely. The difference now, as leader and a senior statesman, is his outlook on the sport.

“As I’ve said, a lot of times my most enjoyable times playing cricket is when I do captain any cricket team, and especially this one,” continued du Plessis. “I’m just excited that it’s another opportunity for me to go and do that. You know, get my brain nice and active on the field and tactically thinking about the game all the time. I just feel that puts me in the space that I want to be playing cricket, so it’s just another opportunity for me for me to do it.”

South Africa have, surprisingly, flown under the radar in the buildup to the World Cup. Ever since their reintroduction to international cricket in 1992, not a World Cup has gone by where South African teams have not been spoken of highly. But from 1992 to 2015, their ending at the tournament has come in heart-breaking scenes.

This team is ranked third in ODIs. In 2019, they’ve swept Sri Lanka 5-0 and beaten Pakista 3-2, all at home. South Africa will be without Dale Steyn for game one of the World Cup, with the veteran fast bowler not 100% fit. The team is putting a lot of faith on the sturdy shoulders of Kagiso Rabada, ranked five in ODIs but playing his first World Cup. Hashim Amla‘s inconsistent form is not a worry, says du Plessis, after the veteran scored half-centuries in both World Cup warm-up matches.

There are younger players like Aiden Markram and Andile Phehlukwayo, whom South Africa want to use to their maximum potential in the tournament.

For du Plessis, keeping the mood in the camp positive and “fun” is more important than getting carried away with pre-tournament chatter and expectations.

“For me as captain, it’s about making sure that we can try and put the noise to one side and just relax as much as we can, try and have fun, control the things that we can do,” he said. “You know, practise hard. Practise well. Have a good culture, have a good language in our culture, and then completely release the outcome and hopefully that frees up the players to play their best cricket.

“It’s just about making sure — there is probably a little bit more noise around a first game; there’s probably a little bit more noise because it’s a World Cup.”

Du Plessis, as captain and pivotal middle-order batsman, is intent on keeping the mood upbeat. In contrast to former captain AB de Villiers’ talk during the 2015 World Cup, du Plessis is not talking about the weight of history of pressure to win the tournament. He is focused on keeping the mood upbeat.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa

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“Rreally, really excited to see the young guys, how well they are going to step up in this tournament, and then the older guys, yeah, as you said, some guys have stated that they finishing after this tournament, you know, but that’s not — that’s not the focus,” he said.

“For me, the focus on making sure that we can look at playing the style of cricket we want to do, and whether that guarantees success for some of the older guys or not, that’s not the focus. They are here to make sure that they enjoy every day as best as possible. I think when you get a little bit older, that becomes a little bit more natural. You take the pressure off. This is something I have to do or need to do to something that I love to do.

“So you go back to that younger version of yourself, so hopefully that will free some of the older guys up a little bit.”

Du Plessis’ statements today will draw mixed responses from fans of South Africa, but underneath what he says lies a refreshing positivity. Whether it remains positive is an aspect of this team that is sure to draw a lot of attention.

South Africa may be under the radar so far, but it won’t be the case from May 30.

(This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the <a href="https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/cricket-world-cup-2019-theres-a-lot-more-bigger-things-than-winning-and-losing-cricket-games-faf-du-plessis-849370">original article</a>)&nbsp;

Up front, seated a few feet away behind a table as he addressed the media gathered inside the basement of The Oval a day before the ICC Cricket World Cup begins, Faf du Plessis looks like he’s aged.

Up front, seated a few feet away behind a table as he addressed the media gathered inside the basement of The Oval a day before the ICC Cricket World Cup begins, Faf du Plessis looks like he’s aged. It’s not a slight. It’s in the context of his cricket; where he’s reached, what he’s gone through leading South Africa through some good times and some tough times, and of where he sits today. It is visible in the creases on his face and the way he his eyes slit when he emphasises certain words. Du Plessis is only 34, but he looks like he’s been through a lot more. In the context of where he and the South African cricket team are a day before the World Cup opener at The Oval against host and top-ranked England, du Plessis did not try and mask his emotions when asked about what he feels right now, about his career and his drive. This is du Plessis’ third World Cup, and first as captain. Asked before the opener about about how he’s changed as a cricketer and individual, his answer was revealing: “Like anyone sitting here today, whether you’re playing cricket or in business or in life or in sport, it’s no different. You know, the older you get, the wiser you get. You know, being a father now, everything gets put into perspective. “Cricket is a very important aspect of all of our lives, but it’s not everything. You know, life, there’s a lot more bigger things than winning and losing games of cricket. And that, perhaps, has changed for me. The fact that I’m no longer desperate; I want to win cricket games but I don’t need to win them. “I think as a team, hopefully that can filter through, because no one taught me that four, five years ago, playing in these events, and hopefully that gives the guys on the rest of the team just a little bit more of a relaxedness to them; that the absolute worst-case scenario, you don’t make it, and that’s okay, life will go on. And if players are a little bit more free, and can just play their best version of themselves, then that’s great. That’s all I’m looking for.” This should not come as bad news for South African cricket fans. Far from it. Du Plessis’ response reveals his state of mind, and it is refreshing. This is a game, after all, not war. For du Plessis, winning cricket games at the World Cup is the target, definitely. The difference now, as leader and a senior statesman, is his outlook on the sport. “As I’ve said, a lot of times my most enjoyable times playing cricket is when I do captain any cricket team, and especially this one,” continued du Plessis. “I’m just excited that it’s another opportunity for me to go and do that. You know, get my brain nice and active on the field and tactically thinking about the game all the time. I just feel that puts me in the space that I want to be playing cricket, so it’s just another opportunity for me for me to do it.” South Africa have, surprisingly, flown under the radar in the buildup to the World Cup. Ever since their reintroduction to international cricket in 1992, not a World Cup has gone by where South African teams have not been spoken of highly. But from 1992 to 2015, their ending at the tournament has come in heart-breaking scenes. This team is ranked third in ODIs. In 2019, they’ve swept Sri Lanka 5-0 and beaten Pakista 3-2, all at home. South Africa will be without Dale Steyn for game one of the World Cup, with the veteran fast bowler not 100% fit. The team is putting a lot of faith on the sturdy shoulders of Kagiso Rabada, ranked five in ODIs but playing his first World Cup. Hashim Amla‘s inconsistent form is not a worry, says du Plessis, after the veteran scored half-centuries in both World Cup warm-up matches. There are younger players like Aiden Markram and Andile Phehlukwayo, whom South Africa want to use to their maximum potential in the tournament. For du Plessis, keeping the mood in the camp positive and “fun” is more important than getting carried away with pre-tournament chatter and expectations. “For me as captain, it’s about making sure that we can try and put the noise to one side and just relax as much as we can, try and have fun, control the things that we can do,” he said. “You know, practise hard. Practise well. Have a good culture, have a good language in our culture, and then completely release the outcome and hopefully that frees up the players to play their best cricket. “It’s just about making sure — there is probably a little bit more noise around a first game; there’s probably a little bit more noise because it’s a World Cup.” Du Plessis, as captain and pivotal middle-order batsman, is intent on keeping the mood upbeat. In contrast to former captain AB de Villiers’ talk during the 2015 World Cup, du Plessis is not talking about the weight of history of pressure to win the tournament. He is focused on keeping the mood upbeat. Watch: Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa × “Rreally, really excited to see the young guys, how well they are going to step up in this tournament, and then the older guys, yeah, as you said, some guys have stated that they finishing after this tournament, you know, but that’s not — that’s not the focus,” he said. “For me, the focus on making sure that we can look at playing the style of cricket we want to do, and whether that guarantees success for some of the older guys or not, that’s not the focus. They are here to make sure that they enjoy every day as best as possible. I think when you get a little bit older, that becomes a little bit more natural. You take the pressure off. This is something I have to do or need to do to something that I love to do. “So you go back to that younger version of yourself, so hopefully that will free some of the older guys up a little bit.” Du Plessis’ statements today will draw mixed responses from fans of South Africa, but underneath what he says lies a refreshing positivity. Whether it remains positive is an aspect of this team that is sure to draw a lot of attention. South Africa may be under the radar so far, but it won’t be the case from May 30. (This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the original article)

Cricket World Cup 2019: There's a lot more bigger things than winning and losing cricket games, says Faf du Plessis

Patience is a virtue, so the saying goes. The men who matter in the realm of English cricket were patient with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/england-vs-south-africa-from-stunning-stokes-to-electric-archer-major-takeaways-from-world-cup-opener-222985#electric-archer-makes-his-mark-222974">Jofra Archer</a>, waiting for him to qualify to represent England after his success for Sussex and several T20 franchises apart from the Under-19 level for Barbados and West Indies.

As soon as the Barbados-born allrounder qualified to play for England this year, he was fast-tracked into the limited-overs squad. Next, into the World Cup squad. On Thursday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-south-africa-by-104-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-opener-222946">Archer made his World Cup debut</a> against South Africa at The Oval and, in his fourth match for England, struck three massive blows for the hosts as they steamrolled their opponents by 104 runs.

Promoted to new-ball duties alongside Chris Woakes, the 22-year-old began with a spell of 2/20 in five overs and later returned to get rid of Rassie van der Dussen for 50. He finished with figures of 7-1-27-3 to go with an unbeaten seven off three balls earlier in the afternoon.

Those figures, as good as they look, do not tell you about the intensity, accuracy and aggression with which Archer bowled in front of a near full house at The Oval. For starters, there was the bouncer that sent Hashim Amla off the field. The veteran South Africa batsman was beaten for pace and took a blow on the helmet, then received on-field treatment before leaving the field.

Archer kept bowling fast, and found his first wicket when Aiden Markram poked an edge to Joe Root at slip. The key here was a bit of bounce and extra pace. Archer jumped and punched the air as his team-mates ran towards him. In the stands, a sea of England fans were on their feet. A few beer-swigging men in the stands behind third man shadowed Root’s catch at slip with animation.&nbsp;

In his next over, Archer suckered South Africa captain Faf du Plessis into a pull. The ball was banged in, du Plessis chased it. But it had too much pace on it and he ended up top-edging it to Moeen Ali at fine leg. This time Archer stood his ground, pumped his fists and roared. You knew how much that wicket meant to him.

In the span of six balls, he had changed the tone of South Africa’s chase. Truly, moments like these are match-winning. They thrill the senses, lift a team’s mood. And they often come from players who, like Archer, have a certain je ne sais quoi about him.

Archer came back to bowl the 32nd over and struck with his fifth delivery, this time getting the well-settled van der Dussen to mistime a shot to mid-on. Yet again, Archer’s pace and a bit of bounce undid a South African batsman.

This is what England picked him for. This is what the fans expect of him. This is what could prove defining in England’s World Cup campaign. They are not ranked No 1 without reason, and now with Archer they appear an even stronger force.

The buzz about Archer – described by Ben Stokes as the most “naturally-gifted” bowler he has seen – was palpable, and after he returned from the IPL with 11 wickets, three catches and a couple vital cameos for Rajasthan Royals the cries for him to be included in England’s World Cup squad grew louder.

Andrew Flintoff urged the selector to drop “anyone” to get Archer in. Michael Vaughan vowed to take off his clothes if Archer wasn’t picked. In his second ODI last month, Archer conceded just six runs in four overs in a wicket-taking spell before rain washed out the game. The chants grew louder.

But Archer’s arrival into the England squad was not without criticism. Woakes, the man with whom Archer opened the bowling at The Oval, said that his selection so close to the World Cup would be “morally unfair”. &nbsp;David Willey questioned the logic of fast-tracking Archer into England’s ODI team. As it turned out, Willey was the man to make way for Archer in England’s World Cup squad, a decision which Eoin Morgan termed the toughest he’s been a part of as England skipper.

Tough, said Morgan, but the right call.

Thursday’s World Cup opener was a big statement from Archer, a cool-headed young player not overawed by the occasion. The patience is paying off for England, and Archer is justifying the hype.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the <a href="https://www.cricketcountry.com/articles/cricket-world-cup-2019-jofra-archers-impact-makes-england-an-even-tougher-force-849970">original article</a>)

Patience is a virtue, so the saying goes. The men who matter in the realm of English cricket were patient with Jofra Archer, waiting for him to qualify to represent England after his success for Sussex and several T20 franchises apart from the Under-19 level for Barbados and West Indies.

Patience is a virtue, so the saying goes. The men who matter in the realm of English cricket were patient with Jofra Archer, waiting for him to qualify to represent England after his success for Sussex and several T20 franchises apart from the Under-19 level for Barbados and West Indies. As soon as the Barbados-born allrounder qualified to play for England this year, he was fast-tracked into the limited-overs squad. Next, into the World Cup squad. On Thursday, Archer made his World Cup debut against South Africa at The Oval and, in his fourth match for England, struck three massive blows for the hosts as they steamrolled their opponents by 104 runs. Promoted to new-ball duties alongside Chris Woakes, the 22-year-old began with a spell of 2/20 in five overs and later returned to get rid of Rassie van der Dussen for 50. He finished with figures of 7-1-27-3 to go with an unbeaten seven off three balls earlier in the afternoon. Those figures, as good as they look, do not tell you about the intensity, accuracy and aggression with which Archer bowled in front of a near full house at The Oval. For starters, there was the bouncer that sent Hashim Amla off the field. The veteran South Africa batsman was beaten for pace and took a blow on the helmet, then received on-field treatment before leaving the field. Archer kept bowling fast, and found his first wicket when Aiden Markram poked an edge to Joe Root at slip. The key here was a bit of bounce and extra pace. Archer jumped and punched the air as his team-mates ran towards him. In the stands, a sea of England fans were on their feet. A few beer-swigging men in the stands behind third man shadowed Root’s catch at slip with animation. In his next over, Archer suckered South Africa captain Faf du Plessis into a pull. The ball was banged in, du Plessis chased it. But it had too much pace on it and he ended up top-edging it to Moeen Ali at fine leg. This time Archer stood his ground, pumped his fists and roared. You knew how much that wicket meant to him. In the span of six balls, he had changed the tone of South Africa’s chase. Truly, moments like these are match-winning. They thrill the senses, lift a team’s mood. And they often come from players who, like Archer, have a certain je ne sais quoi about him. Archer came back to bowl the 32nd over and struck with his fifth delivery, this time getting the well-settled van der Dussen to mistime a shot to mid-on. Yet again, Archer’s pace and a bit of bounce undid a South African batsman. This is what England picked him for. This is what the fans expect of him. This is what could prove defining in England’s World Cup campaign. They are not ranked No 1 without reason, and now with Archer they appear an even stronger force. The buzz about Archer – described by Ben Stokes as the most “naturally-gifted” bowler he has seen – was palpable, and after he returned from the IPL with 11 wickets, three catches and a couple vital cameos for Rajasthan Royals the cries for him to be included in England’s World Cup squad grew louder. Andrew Flintoff urged the selector to drop “anyone” to get Archer in. Michael Vaughan vowed to take off his clothes if Archer wasn’t picked. In his second ODI last month, Archer conceded just six runs in four overs in a wicket-taking spell before rain washed out the game. The chants grew louder. But Archer’s arrival into the England squad was not without criticism. Woakes, the man with whom Archer opened the bowling at The Oval, said that his selection so close to the World Cup would be “morally unfair”. David Willey questioned the logic of fast-tracking Archer into England’s ODI team. As it turned out, Willey was the man to make way for Archer in England’s World Cup squad, a decision which Eoin Morgan termed the toughest he’s been a part of as England skipper. Tough, said Morgan, but the right call. Thursday’s World Cup opener was a big statement from Archer, a cool-headed young player not overawed by the occasion. The patience is paying off for England, and Archer is justifying the hype. (This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the original article)

Cricket World Cup 2019: Jofra Archer's impact makes England an even tougher force

Pakistan will seek inspiration from their dramatic Champions Trophy win in England two years ago when they take the field in their opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a> match against a resurgent West Indies on Friday.&nbsp;

Pakistan have lost their past ten one-day internationals including a 5-0 whitewash by Australia and 4-0 thumping by England, and their problems were further compounded when they went down to outsiders Afghanistan by three wickets in a warm-up match.&nbsp;

But skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed hopes his side will draw inspiration from when they were in a similar position in 2017.&nbsp;

"We will seek inspiration from our Champions Trophy win because then also we were losing and then lifted ourselves at the right time to win the trophy," Sarfaraz told AFP ahead of the game in Nottingham.&nbsp;

Pakistan had lost 4-1 in Australia before the tournament and arch-rivals India whipped them by 124 runs in the opening game of the Trophy.&nbsp;

But Pakistan then beat South Africa, Sri Lanka and England on their way to the final, where they thumped India by 180 runs.&nbsp;

"The boys are motivated and are eager to put these losses behind them and by playing in England for a month we are well prepared and you will hopefully see us doing well," said Sarfaraz, one of Pakistan's only two survivors from the 2015 World Cup, with left-handed batsman Haris Sohail the other.&nbsp;

Sarfaraz will also hope his spearhead Mohammad Amir -- playing his first World Cup after missing the 2011 and 2015 editions due to a spot-fixing ban -- will dismantle the West Indies top order boasting hard-hitting opener Chris Gayle and the impressive Shai Hope.&nbsp;

"We know Amir is an impact bowler and he knows his responsibilities and I am sure he will lift his bowling and get us early wickets," said Sarfaraz of Amir, who recovered from chickenpox in time to get a World Cup call after being left out of the preliminary squad.

Amir factor

His form will be crucial for Pakistan -- he has taken just five wickets in 15 matches since his match-winning three wickets against India in the Champions Trophy final.&nbsp;

Pakistan have only won three times in 10 World Cup matches against the two-time world champions, including a thumping 150-run loss at Christchurch in 2015.&nbsp;

Andre Russell smashed a 13-ball 42 with four sixes and then took three wickets as Pakistan were blown away.&nbsp;

Russell smashed 54 off 25 balls and Hope hit a century to propel the West Indies to 421 in their warm-up win against New Zealand on Tuesday.&nbsp;

That prompted all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite to say his team can break the 500-barrier.&nbsp;

"If you are asking me if we are capable of it, definitely we are," Brathwaite said. "However, in a real game, you probably won't have the depth in batting at 10 and 11 that we had today. So you need to be a little real about the target."&nbsp;

West Indies are also returning to form after sneaking their way into the World Cup through a qualifying round in Zimbabwe last year.&nbsp;

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ac0c31c-7737-44fc-af23-ef96f4967910" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019_0.jpg" />

They squared a one-day series against the top-ranked side and pre-tournament favourites England 2-2 at home earlier this year before losing the final of a tri-series to Bangladesh in Ireland.&nbsp;

Pakistan will seek inspiration from their dramatic Champions Trophy win in England two years ago when they take the field in their opening World Cup match against a resurgent West Indies on Friday.

Pakistan will seek inspiration from their dramatic Champions Trophy win in England two years ago when they take the field in their opening World Cup match against a resurgent West Indies on Friday. Pakistan have lost their past ten one-day internationals including a 5-0 whitewash by Australia and 4-0 thumping by England, and their problems were further compounded when they went down to outsiders Afghanistan by three wickets in a warm-up match. But skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed hopes his side will draw inspiration from when they were in a similar position in 2017. "We will seek inspiration from our Champions Trophy win because then also we were losing and then lifted ourselves at the right time to win the trophy," Sarfaraz told AFP ahead of the game in Nottingham. Pakistan had lost 4-1 in Australia before the tournament and arch-rivals India whipped them by 124 runs in the opening game of the Trophy. But Pakistan then beat South Africa, Sri Lanka and England on their way to the final, where they thumped India by 180 runs. "The boys are motivated and are eager to put these losses behind them and by playing in England for a month we are well prepared and you will hopefully see us doing well," said Sarfaraz, one of Pakistan's only two survivors from the 2015 World Cup, with left-handed batsman Haris Sohail the other. Sarfaraz will also hope his spearhead Mohammad Amir -- playing his first World Cup after missing the 2011 and 2015 editions due to a spot-fixing ban -- will dismantle the West Indies top order boasting hard-hitting opener Chris Gayle and the impressive Shai Hope. "We know Amir is an impact bowler and he knows his responsibilities and I am sure he will lift his bowling and get us early wickets," said Sarfaraz of Amir, who recovered from chickenpox in time to get a World Cup call after being left out of the preliminary squad. Amir factor His form will be crucial for Pakistan -- he has taken just five wickets in 15 matches since his match-winning three wickets against India in the Champions Trophy final. Pakistan have only won three times in 10 World Cup matches against the two-time world champions, including a thumping 150-run loss at Christchurch in 2015. Andre Russell smashed a 13-ball 42 with four sixes and then took three wickets as Pakistan were blown away. Russell smashed 54 off 25 balls and Hope hit a century to propel the West Indies to 421 in their warm-up win against New Zealand on Tuesday. That prompted all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite to say his team can break the 500-barrier. "If you are asking me if we are capable of it, definitely we are," Brathwaite said. "However, in a real game, you probably won't have the depth in batting at 10 and 11 that we had today. So you need to be a little real about the target." West Indies are also returning to form after sneaking their way into the World Cup through a qualifying round in Zimbabwe last year. They squared a one-day series against the top-ranked side and pre-tournament favourites England 2-2 at home earlier this year before losing the final of a tri-series to Bangladesh in Ireland.

World Cup: Pakistan seek Champions Trophy inspiration as West Indies loom

West Indies fast bowlers pulled off a power pack performance as they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-2-pakistan-vs-west-indies-223120">defeated Pakistan by seven wickets</a> in their campaign opener on Friday at the Trent Bridge.&nbsp;

Chasing the 106-run target, West Indies won the game in 13.4 overs for a loss of three wickets.&nbsp;

Chris Gayle completed his half-century also before losing his wicket to Mohammad Amir, who took all three wickets.&nbsp;

Earlier, Oshane Thomas took four wickets as West Indies skittled Pakistan for their second-lowest World Cup total of 105.&nbsp;

Match in numbers:

<img alt="Pakistan vs West Indies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d5e181-9cf4-4185-a076-6da19231ca0f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Match%202.jpg" />

After winning the toss, Windies elected to field and made full use of overcast conditions as captain Jason Holder (3-42) and the returning Andre Russell (2-4) completed the demolition job.

The in-form Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam got off to solid starts but were both dismissed for 22, sparking a middle-order collapse that the former champions did not recover from.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
West Indies win! 
 
Oshane Thomas starred with the ball while Chris Gayle top-scored with a quick fifty as the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MenInMaroon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MenInMaroon</a> cruised to a comfortable seven-wicket win in their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> opener against Pakistan. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvPAK</a> SCORECARD 👇<a href="https://t.co/YTelzKYwRl">https://t.co/YTelzKYwRl</a> <a href="https://t.co/HYW65Bn7yD">pic.twitter.com/HYW65Bn7yD</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1134444168837763074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan were bowled out in 21.4 overs for their lowest World Cup total since a paltry 74 against England at Adelaide in 1992, the year Imran Khan's team went on to lift their only 50-overs crown.&nbsp;

Scoreboard: 
Pakistan: 
Imam-ul-Haq &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c Hope b Cottrell&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2 
Fakhar Zaman &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b Russell&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 22 
Babar Azam &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c Hope b Thomas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 22 
Haris Sohail &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c Hope b Russell&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8 
Sarfaraz Ahmed &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c Hope b Holder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8 
Mohammad Hafeez &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Cottrell b Thomas&nbsp; &nbsp; 16 
Imad Wasim &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Gayle b Holder &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1 
Shadab Khan &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;lbw &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b Thomas &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0 
Hasan Ali &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Cottrell b Holder &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1 
Wahab Riaz &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b Thomas &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18 
Mohammad Amir &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; not out &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3

Extras (nb2, w2) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4 
Total (all out, 21.4 overs) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 105&nbsp;

Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Imam), 2-35 (Zaman), 3-45 (Sohail), 4-62 (Babar), 5-75 (Sarfarez), 6-77 (Imad), 7-78 (Shadab), 8-81 (Hasan), 9-83 (Hafeez), 10-105 (Riaz)

Bowling: Cottrell 4-0-18-1 (1w), Holder 5-0-42-3, Russell 3-1-4-2, Brathwaite 4-0-14-0, Thomas 5.4-0-27-4 (1w 2nb)

West Indies 
Gayle &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Shadab b Amir &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 50 
Hope &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; c Hafeez b Amir&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11 
Bravo &nbsp; &nbsp;c Babar b Amir &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 0 
Pooran not out&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 34 
Hetmyer not out&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7

Extras (lb3 w3) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6 
Total (3 wickets, 13.4 overs) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 108

Did not bat: A. Russell, J. Holder, C Brathwaite, A. Nurse, S. Cottrell, O. Thomas

Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Hope), 2-36 (Bravo), 3-77 (Gayle)

Bowling: Amir 6-0-26-3 (1w), Ali 4-0-39-0 (1w), Riaz 3.4-1-40-0 (1w)

West Indies fast bowlers pulled off a power pack performance as they defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their campaign opener on Friday at the Trent Bridge. Chasing the 106-run target, West Indies won the game in 13.

West Indies fast bowlers pulled off a power pack performance as they defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their campaign opener on Friday at the Trent Bridge. Chasing the 106-run target, West Indies won the game in 13.4 overs for a loss of three wickets. Chris Gayle completed his half-century also before losing his wicket to Mohammad Amir, who took all three wickets. Earlier, Oshane Thomas took four wickets as West Indies skittled Pakistan for their second-lowest World Cup total of 105. Match in numbers: After winning the toss, Windies elected to field and made full use of overcast conditions as captain Jason Holder (3-42) and the returning Andre Russell (2-4) completed the demolition job. The in-form Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam got off to solid starts but were both dismissed for 22, sparking a middle-order collapse that the former champions did not recover from. West Indies win! Oshane Thomas starred with the ball while Chris Gayle top-scored with a quick fifty as the #MenInMaroon cruised to a comfortable seven-wicket win in their #CWC19 opener against Pakistan. #WIvPAK SCORECARD 👇https://t.co/YTelzKYwRl pic.twitter.com/HYW65Bn7yD — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) May 31, 2019 × Pakistan were bowled out in 21.4 overs for their lowest World Cup total since a paltry 74 against England at Adelaide in 1992, the year Imran Khan's team went on to lift their only 50-overs crown. Scoreboard: Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq c Hope b Cottrell 2 Fakhar Zaman b Russell 22 Babar Azam c Hope b Thomas 22 Haris Sohail c Hope b Russell 8 Sarfaraz Ahmed c Hope b Holder 8 Mohammad Hafeez c Cottrell b Thomas 16 Imad Wasim c Gayle b Holder 1 Shadab Khan lbw b Thomas 0 Hasan Ali c Cottrell b Holder 1 Wahab Riaz b Thomas 18 Mohammad Amir not out 3 Extras (nb2, w2) 4 Total (all out, 21.4 overs) 105 Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Imam), 2-35 (Zaman), 3-45 (Sohail), 4-62 (Babar), 5-75 (Sarfarez), 6-77 (Imad), 7-78 (Shadab), 8-81 (Hasan), 9-83 (Hafeez), 10-105 (Riaz) Bowling: Cottrell 4-0-18-1 (1w), Holder 5-0-42-3, Russell 3-1-4-2, Brathwaite 4-0-14-0, Thomas 5.4-0-27-4 (1w 2nb) West Indies Gayle c Shadab b Amir 50 Hope c Hafeez b Amir 11 Bravo c Babar b Amir 0 Pooran not out 34 Hetmyer not out 7 Extras (lb3 w3) 6 Total (3 wickets, 13.4 overs) 108 Did not bat: A. Russell, J. Holder, C Brathwaite, A. Nurse, S. Cottrell, O. Thomas Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Hope), 2-36 (Bravo), 3-77 (Gayle) Bowling: Amir 6-0-26-3 (1w), Ali 4-0-39-0 (1w), Riaz 3.4-1-40-0 (1w)

Cricket World Cup 2019: West Indies beat Pakistan by seven wickets

Ahead of Australia's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup campaign</a> opener, head coach Justin Langer has urged the English fans not to boo Steve Smith and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warners-fitness-a-concern-ahead-of-australias-opening-world-cup-2019-match-223071">David Warner</a> during the tournament, saying that both the players&nbsp;made a mistake and have paid the price for it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both Warner and Smith were booed by the crowd in their warm-up game against England.&nbsp;

The duo returned to the Australian team earlier this month after completing one-year bans for their involvement in a ball-tampering scandal in a Test match in South Africa. The ban had ended on March 29.&nbsp;

The World Cup will be the first international assignment for the two.&nbsp;

"We have talked about it a lot. We are expecting it. That said, when it happens, it doesn't make it any easier. You can take about it as much as you like but that doesn't make it any easier," Langer told a cricket related website.&nbsp;

"I mean they are human beings, and that's the truth. That's where I find it hard. I am a dad, and I have got kids. A lot of the time, players feel like they are my kids," he added.&nbsp;

"And you see that happen. You know you feel for them personally. They are going to have to have thick skin."

We have talked about earning respect. I think it is really important that people show some respect as well. Because they are humans, they are really good cricketers. They made a mistake. They have paid the price for it. Big price actually. I feel for them as people more than anything else," he said.

"After the experience of the other day at Hampshire, I think they have got a pretty good idea what to expect. And, as I said, you can talk about it as much as you like, you can put strategies in place to make sure they deal with it, but no human likes it. That is the truth. As professional cricketers, they will put that out of their mind. They will go and do their job but no one likes that," the head coach added.

Langer further said that he will be disappointed to see any cricketer getting booed in the stadium.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa4283c5-b19c-48b4-b300-71fd219bf56b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019_2.jpg" />
"I will be disappointed any day if any cricketer is booed on a cricket ground. Regardless of what country they play for. It is not the spirit that any of us like to see. Obviously, it hurts because I have got an emotional attachment, and personal attachment, to our players. But it is never a good look, is it, when that happens," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of Australia's World Cup campaign opener, head coach Justin Langer has urged the English fans not to boo Steve Smith and David Warner during the tournament, saying that both the players made a mistake and have paid the price for it.

Ahead of Australia's World Cup campaign opener, head coach Justin Langer has urged the English fans not to boo Steve Smith and David Warner during the tournament, saying that both the players made a mistake and have paid the price for it. Both Warner and Smith were booed by the crowd in their warm-up game against England. The duo returned to the Australian team earlier this month after completing one-year bans for their involvement in a ball-tampering scandal in a Test match in South Africa. The ban had ended on March 29. The World Cup will be the first international assignment for the two. "We have talked about it a lot. We are expecting it. That said, when it happens, it doesn't make it any easier. You can take about it as much as you like but that doesn't make it any easier," Langer told a cricket related website. "I mean they are human beings, and that's the truth. That's where I find it hard. I am a dad, and I have got kids. A lot of the time, players feel like they are my kids," he added. "And you see that happen. You know you feel for them personally. They are going to have to have thick skin." We have talked about earning respect. I think it is really important that people show some respect as well. Because they are humans, they are really good cricketers. They made a mistake. They have paid the price for it. Big price actually. I feel for them as people more than anything else," he said. "After the experience of the other day at Hampshire, I think they have got a pretty good idea what to expect. And, as I said, you can talk about it as much as you like, you can put strategies in place to make sure they deal with it, but no human likes it. That is the truth. As professional cricketers, they will put that out of their mind. They will go and do their job but no one likes that," the head coach added. Langer further said that he will be disappointed to see any cricketer getting booed in the stadium. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019 "I will be disappointed any day if any cricketer is booed on a cricket ground. Regardless of what country they play for. It is not the spirit that any of us like to see. Obviously, it hurts because I have got an emotional attachment, and personal attachment, to our players. But it is never a good look, is it, when that happens," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian coach Justin Langer coach requests crowd not to boo Steve Smith, David Warner

Ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2019, all the participating captains paid a visit to the Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry&nbsp;met and interacted with all the captains ahead of a garden party at the palace.&nbsp;

While interacting,&nbsp;Prince Harry stoked the rivalry between England and Australia with a cheeky sledge at Aaron Finch during a team <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captains-meet-queen-elizabeth-before-the-commencement-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-222662">captains' reception at Buckingham Palace</a>.&nbsp;

"You're getting on a bit now, aren't you? How long have you been playing?" the Duke of Sussex asked the 32-year-old Australian skipper, making him laugh.&nbsp;

Australia are bidding for back-to-back World Cup titles after winning the 2015 tournament on home soil, while hosts England are favourites to claim their first.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains

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Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
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Eoin Morgan's England meet South Africa in the World Cup opener at The Oval.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2019, all the participating captains paid a visit to the Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London on Wednesday.

Ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2019, all the participating captains paid a visit to the Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London on Wednesday. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry met and interacted with all the captains ahead of a garden party at the palace. While interacting, Prince Harry stoked the rivalry between England and Australia with a cheeky sledge at Aaron Finch during a team captains' reception at Buckingham Palace. "You're getting on a bit now, aren't you? How long have you been playing?" the Duke of Sussex asked the 32-year-old Australian skipper, making him laugh. Australia are bidding for back-to-back World Cup titles after winning the 2015 tournament on home soil, while hosts England are favourites to claim their first. Watch: Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains × Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Eoin Morgan's England meet South Africa in the World Cup opener at The Oval.

Prince Harry sledges Australian skipper Aaron Finch at Buckingham Palace

England vs South Africa: From stunning Stokes to electric Archer, major takeaways from World Cup opener

English all-rounder Ben Stokes has already raised the bar in the Cricket World Cup 2019 with his excellent batting, economical bowling and magnificent fielding.&nbsp;

Stokes pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss South African Andile Phehlukwayo in the 35th over of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-south-africa-by-104-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-opener-222946">England vs South Africa match</a>.&nbsp;

Phehlukwayo hit a shot over the mid-wicket, which was connected well with his bat but Big Ben did the unbelievable. He took the one-handed catch and landed backwards near the fence.&nbsp;

He balanced himself, stood up and ran towards his teammates to celebrate the stunning catch.&nbsp;

While batting, he top-scored with 89 and helped his team to post a solid total of 311 for eight in their opening Cricket World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval on Thursday.&nbsp;

While bowling, he took two wickets in his short spell of 2.5 overs and gave 12 runs.&nbsp;

For his all-round performance, he was awarded the Man of the Match award.

"I was a little further in than I should have been. I panicked a bit I guess but it stuck,"&nbsp;Stokes&nbsp;said after the match.&nbsp;

"I shouldn't have been there (initially) and it was probably a regulation catch but I was in the wrong position," he added.&nbsp;

Watch the catch:

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Ben Stokes has just taken one of the greatest catches you will EVER see! 
 
Video coming soon 👀 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreEngland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreEngland</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/7wZtHdyWrP">pic.twitter.com/7wZtHdyWrP</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1134132130089512960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ben Stokes with the bat, Ben Stokes with the ball, Ben Stokes on the field! 
 
No question about who's the Player of the Match in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> opener 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreEngland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreEngland</a> <a href="https://t.co/2pZwa10xEt">pic.twitter.com/2pZwa10xEt</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1134140294524522496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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What a catch from Ben Stokes! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/wpdI7UnJfQ">pic.twitter.com/wpdI7UnJfQ</a>
— Pete Ransom (@PeteRansom) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteRansom/status/1134130268862894081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the match, England started their World Cup campaign on a winning note after crushing South Africa by 104 runs.&nbsp;

The home side made 311 for eight in their 50 overs and South Africa were dismissed for 207 in 39.5 overs, with England paceman Jofra Archer claiming three wickets.&nbsp;

English all-rounder Ben Stokes has already raised the bar in the Cricket World Cup 2019 with his excellent batting, economical bowling and magnificent fielding. Stokes pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss South African Andile Phehlukwayo in the 35th over of England vs South Africa match.

English all-rounder Ben Stokes has already raised the bar in the Cricket World Cup 2019 with his excellent batting, economical bowling and magnificent fielding. Stokes pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss South African Andile Phehlukwayo in the 35th over of England vs South Africa match. Phehlukwayo hit a shot over the mid-wicket, which was connected well with his bat but Big Ben did the unbelievable. He took the one-handed catch and landed backwards near the fence. He balanced himself, stood up and ran towards his teammates to celebrate the stunning catch. While batting, he top-scored with 89 and helped his team to post a solid total of 311 for eight in their opening Cricket World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval on Thursday. While bowling, he took two wickets in his short spell of 2.5 overs and gave 12 runs. For his all-round performance, he was awarded the Man of the Match award. "I was a little further in than I should have been. I panicked a bit I guess but it stuck," Stokes said after the match. "I shouldn't have been there (initially) and it was probably a regulation catch but I was in the wrong position," he added. Watch the catch: Ben Stokes has just taken one of the greatest catches you will EVER see! Video coming soon 👀 #WeAreEngland #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/7wZtHdyWrP — ICC (@ICC) May 30, 2019 × Ben Stokes with the bat, Ben Stokes with the ball, Ben Stokes on the field! No question about who's the Player of the Match in the #CWC19 opener 👏 #ENGvSA #WeAreEngland pic.twitter.com/2pZwa10xEt — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) May 30, 2019 × What a catch from Ben Stokes! #ENGvSA pic.twitter.com/wpdI7UnJfQ — Pete Ransom (@PeteRansom) May 30, 2019 × In the match, England started their World Cup campaign on a winning note after crushing South Africa by 104 runs. The home side made 311 for eight in their 50 overs and South Africa were dismissed for 207 in 39.5 overs, with England paceman Jofra Archer claiming three wickets.

Watch: Ben Stokes takes mind-boggling catch to dismiss Andile Phehlukwayo

Eoin Morgan-led England defeated South Africa by 104 runs in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-1-england-vs-south-africa-222728">inaugural match of the Cricket World Cup 2019</a> on Thursday at the Oval stadium.&nbsp;

Chasing 312 runs to win, South Africa were all out for 207 in 39.5 overs.&nbsp;

South Africa's top batting order collapsed despite opener Quinton de Kock, who scored 68 runs before losing his wicket to Liam Plunkett.&nbsp;

Rassie van der Dussen also played a decent knock but could not inspire the team towards victory.&nbsp;

South Africa also suffered a huge scare as Hasim Amla retired hurt after being hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer but later came to bat again and eventually lost his wicket to Plunkett after scoring 13 runs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Ben Stokes top-scored with 89 as England posted a solid but not commanding total of 311 for eight.&nbsp;

Jason Roy, Joe Root and Eoin Morgan also passed fifty in favourable batting conditions, but England were never able to break free from the shackles imposed by a disciplined South African attack.

After being put in to bat, the tournament favourites lost Jonny Bairstow to the second ball of the innings, caught by wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock off spinner Imran Tahir, but Roy and Root shared a 106-run partnership to steady the hosts.

Roy never threatened to dismantle the bowling as he has done regularly in recent matches, accumulating 54 runs before he skied Andile Phehlukwayo to Faf du Plessis at mid-off.

Three balls later Root departed for 51, playing a loose drive at Kagiso Rabada to give JP Duminy a simple catch at backward point and leave England on 111 for three.

South Africa continued to bowl tightly as Morgan and Stokes set about rebuilding the innings.

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England are off to a winning start! 
 
Archer takes three wickets, while Plunkett and Stokes get two each as the hosts beat South Africa by 104 runs! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvSA</a> SCORECARD ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/nH52002J64">https://t.co/nH52002J64</a> <a href="https://t.co/dT8xVHtmOs">pic.twitter.com/dT8xVHtmOs</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1134137812771573761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Morgan struck the first six in the 26th over and the captain cleared the ropes twice more in a fourth-wicket partnership of 106.

Morgan, on 57, was brilliantly caught off Tahir by Aiden Markram at long-on, the fielder diving forward to catch the ball inches from the turf, and England failed to cut free.

Jos Buttler made a scratchy 18, Moeen Ali three before he too fell to a superb catch on the boundary by Du Plessis and Chris Woakes 13 as the last 10 overs produced 76 runs to leave the match finely poised at the half-way stage.

Eoin Morgan-led England defeated South Africa by 104 runs in the inaugural match of the Cricket World Cup 2019 on Thursday at the Oval stadium. Chasing 312 runs to win, South Africa were all out for 207 in 39.

Eoin Morgan-led England defeated South Africa by 104 runs in the inaugural match of the Cricket World Cup 2019 on Thursday at the Oval stadium. Chasing 312 runs to win, South Africa were all out for 207 in 39.5 overs. South Africa's top batting order collapsed despite opener Quinton de Kock, who scored 68 runs before losing his wicket to Liam Plunkett. Rassie van der Dussen also played a decent knock but could not inspire the team towards victory. South Africa also suffered a huge scare as Hasim Amla retired hurt after being hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer but later came to bat again and eventually lost his wicket to Plunkett after scoring 13 runs. Earlier, Ben Stokes top-scored with 89 as England posted a solid but not commanding total of 311 for eight. Jason Roy, Joe Root and Eoin Morgan also passed fifty in favourable batting conditions, but England were never able to break free from the shackles imposed by a disciplined South African attack. After being put in to bat, the tournament favourites lost Jonny Bairstow to the second ball of the innings, caught by wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock off spinner Imran Tahir, but Roy and Root shared a 106-run partnership to steady the hosts. Roy never threatened to dismantle the bowling as he has done regularly in recent matches, accumulating 54 runs before he skied Andile Phehlukwayo to Faf du Plessis at mid-off. Three balls later Root departed for 51, playing a loose drive at Kagiso Rabada to give JP Duminy a simple catch at backward point and leave England on 111 for three. South Africa continued to bowl tightly as Morgan and Stokes set about rebuilding the innings. England are off to a winning start! Archer takes three wickets, while Plunkett and Stokes get two each as the hosts beat South Africa by 104 runs! #ENGvSA SCORECARD ⬇️ https://t.co/nH52002J64 pic.twitter.com/dT8xVHtmOs — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) May 30, 2019 × Morgan struck the first six in the 26th over and the captain cleared the ropes twice more in a fourth-wicket partnership of 106. Morgan, on 57, was brilliantly caught off Tahir by Aiden Markram at long-on, the fielder diving forward to catch the ball inches from the turf, and England failed to cut free. Jos Buttler made a scratchy 18, Moeen Ali three before he too fell to a superb catch on the boundary by Du Plessis and Chris Woakes 13 as the last 10 overs produced 76 runs to leave the match finely poised at the half-way stage.

England beat South Africa by 104 runs in Cricket World Cup opener

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-dream-come-true-says-pakistans-mohammad-amir-on-world-cup-debut-222898">pace sensation Mohammad Amir</a> is fit for his World Cup debut on Friday against West Indies at Nottingham's Trent Bridge stadium.&nbsp;

"Mohammad Amir is fully fit and available for selection," Sarfaraz told reporters.&nbsp;

Amir, who was initially not included in Pakistan's provisional squad after his not so impressive performance ahead of the World Cup.&nbsp;

However, he was later included as the selectors decided to include him in the final 15 for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

"It's a dream come true," Amir told AFP ahead of Pakistan's first match against West Indies.&nbsp;

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-west-indies-vs-pakistan-match-222797#wahab-riaz-220832">Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match</a>

"Every cricketer dreams of representing his country in a World Cup so this is my chance," he added.&nbsp;

Sarfaraz said he was clear about his starting 11, with all his players fit.

"I think it's good to be unpredictable," Sarfaraz added Pakistan being unpredictable.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day, the Pakistan team is very dangerous," he added. &nbsp;

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that pace sensation Mohammad Amir is fit for his World Cup debut on Friday against West Indies at Nottingham's Trent Bridge stadium.

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that pace sensation Mohammad Amir is fit for his World Cup debut on Friday against West Indies at Nottingham's Trent Bridge stadium. "Mohammad Amir is fully fit and available for selection," Sarfaraz told reporters. Amir, who was initially not included in Pakistan's provisional squad after his not so impressive performance ahead of the World Cup. However, he was later included as the selectors decided to include him in the final 15 for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup. "It's a dream come true," Amir told AFP ahead of Pakistan's first match against West Indies. In Pics: Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match "Every cricketer dreams of representing his country in a World Cup so this is my chance," he added. Sarfaraz said he was clear about his starting 11, with all his players fit. "I think it's good to be unpredictable," Sarfaraz added Pakistan being unpredictable. "At the end of the day, the Pakistan team is very dangerous," he added.

Pakistan vs West Indies: Mohammad Amir is 'fully fit' for World Cup debut, says Sarfaraz Ahmed

Pakistan spearhead Mohammad Amir says playing in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-seek-champions-trophy-inspiration-as-west-indies-loom-222880">World&nbsp;Cup</a>&nbsp;will be a dream come true after he missed the previous two tournaments following a ban for spot-fixing.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old nearly missed out this time as he was left out of the preliminary&nbsp;WorldCup&nbsp;squad, having taken just five wickets in the 14 matches before the recent one-day international series against England.&nbsp;

He did not get to bowl in the first match against England at the Oval, which was ruined by the weather, and missed the last four games with a bout of chicken pox. The home side won the series 4-0.&nbsp;

But selectors decided to include him in the final 15 for the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in England and Wales.&nbsp;

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-west-indies-vs-pakistan-match-222797#wahab-riaz-220832">Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match</a>

"It's a dream come true," Amir told AFP ahead of Pakistan's first match against West Indies at Trent Bridge on Friday. "Every cricketer dreams of representing his country in a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;so this is my chance.&nbsp;

"My target is to take wickets and be a third-time lucky in England after winning the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Twenty20 and Champions Trophy," said the paceman, recalling Pakistan's triumphs in England in 2009 and 2017.&nbsp;

Amir said Pakistan had positive memories of playing in England, which they hoped to take into the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup.&nbsp;

"Our triumph in the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Twenty20 was excellent and then the Champions Trophy -- the impact of those wins are with us and the amount of support we get in the UK is extraordinary, so naturally we will like to match those.&nbsp;

"People love the Pakistan team and come in large numbers to support us. I can't forget the final of the Champions Trophy at the Oval (2017)."

Tainted career

Amir was among three players involved in a spot-fixing scandal during a 2010 Test against England.

The quick bowler, fellow paceman Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt, Pakistan's captain in that match, were sentenced to jail terms, and were all given five-year worldwide bans from cricket by the International Cricket Council.&nbsp;

Amir said he had moved on from the "sordid chapter" in his career.

"It was unfortunate to miss so much cricket, including two&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cups, but my belief is that you can't avoid your destiny. Those&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cups were not in my destiny but there is sadness on missing them.

"But once you think that this is your chance, you try to make full use of it by forgetting everything, so I will do that and everything is behind me."

Amir believes talk of flat tracks and big scores at the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;are exaggerated.

"People have made a mountain out of a molehill that flat tracks will do this and that. I agree that it's a challenge for bowlers but you need to swing the ball and if it's not happening then you have to rely on your variations.&nbsp;

"I don't get bogged down by the hype on flat tracks."

Amir hopes to overturn a poor run of personal form.
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="608bc743-9138-4c8c-85b9-adc93e835321" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019_1.jpg" />
"I am sure things will get better," he said. "I know I have not taken wickets but I have not bowled badly, so I am thankful to the team, selectors and others who have backed me and I will do my best to fulfil their confidence."

Pakistan spearhead Mohammad Amir says playing in the World Cup will be a dream come true after he missed the previous two tournaments following a ban for spot-fixing.

Pakistan spearhead Mohammad Amir says playing in the World Cup will be a dream come true after he missed the previous two tournaments following a ban for spot-fixing. The 27-year-old nearly missed out this time as he was left out of the preliminary WorldCup squad, having taken just five wickets in the 14 matches before the recent one-day international series against England. He did not get to bowl in the first match against England at the Oval, which was ruined by the weather, and missed the last four games with a bout of chicken pox. The home side won the series 4-0. But selectors decided to include him in the final 15 for the World Cup in England and Wales. In Pics: Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match "It's a dream come true," Amir told AFP ahead of Pakistan's first match against West Indies at Trent Bridge on Friday. "Every cricketer dreams of representing his country in a World Cup so this is my chance. "My target is to take wickets and be a third-time lucky in England after winning the World Twenty20 and Champions Trophy," said the paceman, recalling Pakistan's triumphs in England in 2009 and 2017. Amir said Pakistan had positive memories of playing in England, which they hoped to take into the World Cup. "Our triumph in the World Twenty20 was excellent and then the Champions Trophy -- the impact of those wins are with us and the amount of support we get in the UK is extraordinary, so naturally we will like to match those. "People love the Pakistan team and come in large numbers to support us. I can't forget the final of the Champions Trophy at the Oval (2017)." Tainted career Amir was among three players involved in a spot-fixing scandal during a 2010 Test against England. The quick bowler, fellow paceman Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt, Pakistan's captain in that match, were sentenced to jail terms, and were all given five-year worldwide bans from cricket by the International Cricket Council. Amir said he had moved on from the "sordid chapter" in his career. "It was unfortunate to miss so much cricket, including two World Cups, but my belief is that you can't avoid your destiny. Those World Cups were not in my destiny but there is sadness on missing them. "But once you think that this is your chance, you try to make full use of it by forgetting everything, so I will do that and everything is behind me." Amir believes talk of flat tracks and big scores at the World Cup are exaggerated. "People have made a mountain out of a molehill that flat tracks will do this and that. I agree that it's a challenge for bowlers but you need to swing the ball and if it's not happening then you have to rely on your variations. "I don't get bogged down by the hype on flat tracks." Amir hopes to overturn a poor run of personal form. "I am sure things will get better," he said. "I know I have not taken wickets but I have not bowled badly, so I am thankful to the team, selectors and others who have backed me and I will do my best to fulfil their confidence."

'It's a dream come true,' says Pakistan's Mohammad Amir on World Cup debut

South African bowler Imran Tahir scripted history as he became the&nbsp;first spinner to bowl the first over&nbsp;in a Cricket World Cup match.

He created another record of becoming the&nbsp;oldest South African to play in a World Cup match. He is&nbsp;40 years and 64 days old.&nbsp;

After South Africa elected to bowl first after winning the toss during&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-1-england-vs-south-africa-222728">tournament-opener against hosts England</a> on Thursday at the Oval stadium.&nbsp;

Skipper&nbsp;Faf du Plessis decided to go with the experienced spinner and Tahir&nbsp;didn't disappoint as he dismissed England opener Jonny Bairstow (0) on&nbsp;the second ball.

Tahir went on to take another crucial wicket of England captain Eoin Morgan, who scored&nbsp;57 runs off 60 balls.&nbsp;

Previously, in the 1992 World Cup, New Zealand off-spinner Dipak Patel had bowled the second over during a match against Australia.

South African bowler Imran Tahir scripted history as he became the first spinner to bowl the first over in a Cricket World Cup match. He created another record of becoming the oldest South African to play in a World Cup match.

South African bowler Imran Tahir scripted history as he became the first spinner to bowl the first over in a Cricket World Cup match. He created another record of becoming the oldest South African to play in a World Cup match. He is 40 years and 64 days old. After South Africa elected to bowl first after winning the toss during the tournament-opener against hosts England on Thursday at the Oval stadium. Skipper Faf du Plessis decided to go with the experienced spinner and Tahir didn't disappoint as he dismissed England opener Jonny Bairstow (0) on the second ball. Tahir went on to take another crucial wicket of England captain Eoin Morgan, who scored 57 runs off 60 balls. Previously, in the 1992 World Cup, New Zealand off-spinner Dipak Patel had bowled the second over during a match against Australia.

Imran Tahir creates two records in World Cup match against England

The Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway, with the first match of the tournament going on at the Oval stadium between the hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-1-england-vs-south-africa-222728">England and South Africa</a> today.&nbsp;

Under the bright London skies,&nbsp;Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who&nbsp;announced last week to quit as country's prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed.&nbsp;

Last week, May announced that&nbsp;on June 7 she would step down after three times failing to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament.&nbsp;

The European Union (EU), with whom Britain decided to sever ties in a referendum, has refused to accept May's deal and she now hopes a new prime minister will "take the process forward".&nbsp;

Now, free from the burden of trying to deliver Britain's exit from the EU, May decided to watch the inaugural match of the tournament.&nbsp;

During the match, She was captured&nbsp;applauding from the stands for Eoin Morgan-led England team.&nbsp;

May, who once likened her resolve to see her Brexit plan through to the determination of her cricket hero Geoffrey Boycott to get runs, has long been a lover of the sport.&nbsp;

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Free from Brexit burden, PM Theresa May heads to the cricket <a href="https://t.co/P4UVnAlqLl">https://t.co/P4UVnAlqLl</a> ⟶ via <a href="https://t.co/0I4IIflkwI">https://t.co/0I4IIflkwI</a> <a href="https://t.co/m8dgcbDYuA">pic.twitter.com/m8dgcbDYuA</a>
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In the match,&nbsp;South Africa's Faf Du Plessis, without injured pace bowler Dale Steyn, won the toss and opted to field.

"A 10.30am start at The Oval - if there's anything in the wicket, it'll be in the first hour," he said. "We've got some fantastic fast bowlers and we're hoping it'll be a great occasion today."

England skipper Eoin Morgan said,&nbsp;"We would have looked to do the same, just preferring chasing. The wicket looks really good."

The Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway, with the first match of the tournament going on at the Oval stadium between the hosts England and South Africa today. Under the bright London skies, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who announced last week to quit as country's prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed.

The Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway, with the first match of the tournament going on at the Oval stadium between the hosts England and South Africa today. Under the bright London skies, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who announced last week to quit as country's prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed. Last week, May announced that on June 7 she would step down after three times failing to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament. The European Union (EU), with whom Britain decided to sever ties in a referendum, has refused to accept May's deal and she now hopes a new prime minister will "take the process forward". Now, free from the burden of trying to deliver Britain's exit from the EU, May decided to watch the inaugural match of the tournament. During the match, She was captured applauding from the stands for Eoin Morgan-led England team. May, who once likened her resolve to see her Brexit plan through to the determination of her cricket hero Geoffrey Boycott to get runs, has long been a lover of the sport. Free from Brexit burden, PM Theresa May heads to the cricket https://t.co/P4UVnAlqLl ⟶ via https://t.co/0I4IIflkwI pic.twitter.com/m8dgcbDYuA — Bitcoin Sportsbook 🥇 (@SportsbookBTC) May 30, 2019 × In the match, South Africa's Faf Du Plessis, without injured pace bowler Dale Steyn, won the toss and opted to field. "A 10.30am start at The Oval - if there's anything in the wicket, it'll be in the first hour," he said. "We've got some fantastic fast bowlers and we're hoping it'll be a great occasion today." England skipper Eoin Morgan said, "We would have looked to do the same, just preferring chasing. The wicket looks really good."

Free from Brexit burden, PM Theresa May watches England vs South Africa World Cup match

On the eve of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, all captains of the participating nations paid a visit to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London.&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of World Cup, hosted by England and Wales, is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace in the presence of many cricketing legends like Viv Richards, Anil Kumble and Jacques Kallis.&nbsp;

During the event, a unique 60-second challenge was played in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs.

Pakistan was represented by the Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai along with former cricketer Azhar Ali.&nbsp;

While Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar and World Cup-winner Anil Kumble represented Team India.&nbsp;

England came out as the winners as they scored 74 in one minute whereas India finished at the bottom as they scored just 19.&nbsp;

After the game, Malala took a dig at India's performance, she said, "Pakistan, we were okay, not too bad. We came seventh. But at least we were not last like India."&nbsp;

"India played really well, they tried their best and we appreciate their hardwork," said the advocate of girl's education.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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Malala, Farhan Akhtar, KP, Brett Lee, Anil Kumble, the World Cup song. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> opening party was... well, a big party! <a href="https://t.co/E9sT0GIPUB">pic.twitter.com/E9sT0GIPUB</a>
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNcricinfo/status/1133980915682557952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Although, her light-hearted comments were not taken sportingly and one of the Twitter users even said that the comment displayed "hate towards India".&nbsp;

Yousafzai further added the&nbsp;importance of women taking up cricket sports and urged that women must engage more in all types of sports.&nbsp;

"Right now were are seeing more and more women taking part in sporting activities," Yousafzai said.

"In Pakistan, we have some amazing cricketers, including Sana Mir. These role models are inspiring women to believe in themselves that they are capable of anything. Women should engage more in sports and we all have to contribute to that and encourage women and girls," she added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains

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England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all captains of the participating nations paid a visit to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London.

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all captains of the participating nations paid a visit to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London. The twelfth edition of World Cup, hosted by England and Wales, is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace in the presence of many cricketing legends like Viv Richards, Anil Kumble and Jacques Kallis. During the event, a unique 60-second challenge was played in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs. Pakistan was represented by the Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai along with former cricketer Azhar Ali. While Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar and World Cup-winner Anil Kumble represented Team India. England came out as the winners as they scored 74 in one minute whereas India finished at the bottom as they scored just 19. After the game, Malala took a dig at India's performance, she said, "Pakistan, we were okay, not too bad. We came seventh. But at least we were not last like India." "India played really well, they tried their best and we appreciate their hardwork," said the advocate of girl's education. Watch the video: Malala, Farhan Akhtar, KP, Brett Lee, Anil Kumble, the World Cup song. The #CWC19 opening party was... well, a big party! pic.twitter.com/E9sT0GIPUB — ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) May 30, 2019 × Although, her light-hearted comments were not taken sportingly and one of the Twitter users even said that the comment displayed "hate towards India". Yousafzai further added the importance of women taking up cricket sports and urged that women must engage more in all types of sports. "Right now were are seeing more and more women taking part in sporting activities," Yousafzai said. "In Pakistan, we have some amazing cricketers, including Sana Mir. These role models are inspiring women to believe in themselves that they are capable of anything. Women should engage more in sports and we all have to contribute to that and encourage women and girls," she added. Watch: Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains × England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup at the Oval in London.

At least we were not last like India: Malala Yousafzai's dig at friendly match ahead of Cricket World Cup

On the eve of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, all the skippers of the participating countries met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London.&nbsp;

The tournament is hosted by England and Wales is scheduled to take place between from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages.

Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace and from Viv Richards to Anil Kumble, many cricketing legends attended the ceremony.&nbsp;

Team Pakistan was represented by Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai.&nbsp;

During the ceremony, a unique 60-second challenge was played&nbsp;in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the captains' meeting with the Queen. "The 10 #CWC19 Captains with the Queen," BCCI captioned one of the photos on Twitter.&nbsp;

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The 10 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> Captains with the Queen. <a href="https://t.co/cT42NfuPCv">pic.twitter.com/cT42NfuPCv</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1133783155574550529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Captains including <a href="https://twitter.com/Eoin16?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eoin16</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> met Her Majesty and His Royal Highness before joining a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. <a href="https://t.co/AjS5eZBrVH">pic.twitter.com/AjS5eZBrVH</a>
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1133764856178446336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Watch:&nbsp;Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains

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England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup today at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all the skippers of the participating countries met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London. The tournament is hosted by England and Wales is scheduled to take place between from May 30 to July 14.

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all the skippers of the participating countries met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London. The tournament is hosted by England and Wales is scheduled to take place between from May 30 to July 14. The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages. Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace and from Viv Richards to Anil Kumble, many cricketing legends attended the ceremony. Team Pakistan was represented by Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai. During the ceremony, a unique 60-second challenge was played in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the captains' meeting with the Queen. "The 10 #CWC19 Captains with the Queen," BCCI captioned one of the photos on Twitter. The 10 #CWC19 Captains with the Queen. pic.twitter.com/cT42NfuPCv — BCCI (@BCCI) May 29, 2019 × Captains including @Eoin16 and @imVkohli met Her Majesty and His Royal Highness before joining a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. pic.twitter.com/AjS5eZBrVH — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 29, 2019 × Watch: Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains × England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup today at the Oval in London.

Captains meet Queen Elizabeth before the commencement of Cricket World Cup 2019

Skipper Virat Kohli, who is happy with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-answers-indias-number-four-conundrum-for-world-cup-with-cardiff-ton-222429">KL Rahul</a>'s timely hundred at No 4 slot is not overtly worried about Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma's patchy form in the two World Cup warm-up games ahead of the tournament proper.&nbsp;

The skipper gave enough indications that Rahul has sealed his spot at No 4 with a 99-ball-108 against Bangladesh in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">final warm-up game which India won by 95 runs</a>.

"The biggest positive from today was the way KL (Rahul) batted at No. 4. Everyone else know their roles. It is important that he gets the runs as he is such a class player," Kohli said of Rahul who hit a 99-ball 108, after India's big win in their final World Cup warm-up game.

"MS (Dhoni) and Hardik were superb as well," he added. Dhoni also scored a hundred -- a 78-ball 113 -- while Hardik Pandya contributed 21 from 11 deliveries down the order.&nbsp;

The two senior openers, however, didn't get the kind of practice that they would have ideally liked before the first game against South Africa on June 5 in Southampton.

Dhawan had scores of 1 and 2 while Rahit scored 2 and 19 against New Zealand and Bangladesh respectively.

"We have had two good challenges in the two games while batting first. Shikhar and Rohit are quality players, they become stars in ICC events. Ideally, we would have liked to chase today. I understand if guys don't get going right away in this format. In warm-up games, at times, you don't get the motivation especially because the amount of cricket that we play. But I am glad with what we got out of these two games," Kohli came in defence of the opening duo.&nbsp;

He also praised the wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for picking six wickets amongst themselves.&nbsp;

"We were challenged by their batsmen as well but we bowled well and our spinners got wickets too. Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," Kohli said.&nbsp;

He said in the World Cup matches the ball might turn a bit in the second half and swing and seam would be important in the first fifteen overs. He said most of the teams winning the toss would want to chase.&nbsp;

In warm-up games, often the side fielding second finds it a bit of a drag in the final overs like it happened against Bangladesh where the outcome was clear by the 35th over but match went on till the last over.&nbsp;

"The last 15 overs could be challenging on the field, especially when the game is not interesting and you have to go through the motions. But once the tournament starts nobody would find all these things long, which is what you expect from a world class tournament like the World Cup."&nbsp;

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said, "We have spent fours weeks here. So, a few players have some niggles.&nbsp;

"Looks alright (about his fitness), but we need to look after our bowlers. Our top-order is scoring some runs. Soumya batted well, Liton and Mushfiq did a good job. Overall, the top-order batsmen need to understand their role."

Skipper Virat Kohli, who is happy with KL Rahul's timely hundred at No 4 slot is not overtly worried about Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma's patchy form in the two World Cup warm-up games ahead of the tournament proper.

Skipper Virat Kohli, who is happy with KL Rahul's timely hundred at No 4 slot is not overtly worried about Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma's patchy form in the two World Cup warm-up games ahead of the tournament proper. The skipper gave enough indications that Rahul has sealed his spot at No 4 with a 99-ball-108 against Bangladesh in the final warm-up game which India won by 95 runs. "The biggest positive from today was the way KL (Rahul) batted at No. 4. Everyone else know their roles. It is important that he gets the runs as he is such a class player," Kohli said of Rahul who hit a 99-ball 108, after India's big win in their final World Cup warm-up game. "MS (Dhoni) and Hardik were superb as well," he added. Dhoni also scored a hundred -- a 78-ball 113 -- while Hardik Pandya contributed 21 from 11 deliveries down the order. The two senior openers, however, didn't get the kind of practice that they would have ideally liked before the first game against South Africa on June 5 in Southampton. Dhawan had scores of 1 and 2 while Rahit scored 2 and 19 against New Zealand and Bangladesh respectively. "We have had two good challenges in the two games while batting first. Shikhar and Rohit are quality players, they become stars in ICC events. Ideally, we would have liked to chase today. I understand if guys don't get going right away in this format. In warm-up games, at times, you don't get the motivation especially because the amount of cricket that we play. But I am glad with what we got out of these two games," Kohli came in defence of the opening duo. He also praised the wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for picking six wickets amongst themselves. "We were challenged by their batsmen as well but we bowled well and our spinners got wickets too. Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," Kohli said. He said in the World Cup matches the ball might turn a bit in the second half and swing and seam would be important in the first fifteen overs. He said most of the teams winning the toss would want to chase. In warm-up games, often the side fielding second finds it a bit of a drag in the final overs like it happened against Bangladesh where the outcome was clear by the 35th over but match went on till the last over. "The last 15 overs could be challenging on the field, especially when the game is not interesting and you have to go through the motions. But once the tournament starts nobody would find all these things long, which is what you expect from a world class tournament like the World Cup." Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said, "We have spent fours weeks here. So, a few players have some niggles. "Looks alright (about his fitness), but we need to look after our bowlers. Our top-order is scoring some runs. Soumya batted well, Liton and Mushfiq did a good job. Overall, the top-order batsmen need to understand their role."

KL Rahul's batting at No 4 is big positive, not worried about Dhawan, Rohit's form, says Virat Kohli

All you need to know about the venues of the Cricket World Cup 2019

England captain Eoin Morgan says winning a home&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;could do wonders for cricket in the sport's birthplace as he prepares to lead his team in their tournament opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-theres-a-lot-more-bigger-things-than-winning-and-losing-cricket-games-says-faf-du-plessis-222584">against South Africa</a>.

England are top of the one-day international rankings and favourites to lift a trophy they have never yet won in its 44-year-history -- a far cry from their woeful first-round exit at the 2015&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in Australia and New Zealand.

Television coverage of cricket in Britain has been largely hidden behind a paywall since England won the 2005 Ashes but Morgan believes a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;win would break through to a new audience.&nbsp;

"It would mean a huge amount. The&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;alone raises the profile of the game and is a platform for every young kid in this country to have a hero or have the inspiration to pick up a ball or a bat," Morgan told reporters at the Oval on Wednesday.

"To go on and win it, I couldn't imagine what that would do," the former Ireland batsman added.

'Brilliant' Southgate

The England cricket squad and backroom staff have spent time with England football manager Gareth Southgate, whose side revitalised interest and affection in the national team on their way to the semi-finals of last year's soccer&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in Russia.

"We did do a session with Gareth, it was brilliant," recalled Morgan.

"He got up and talked about his journey with the team in and around the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup, but in the build-up, as well, and how they built bigger expectations and came together more as a group.&nbsp;

"I think everybody within the room listening who has been involved with our team over the last four years recognised that -- we started exactly where they did. Recognised what had happened in the past, drawn a line under it, tried to do things differently and move forward and enjoyed the challenge of that."

But the expectations surrounding England's men's football and cricket teams are wide apart, with Morgan saying his side had received a very different reaction when they were beaten by Pakistan in the 2017 semi-finals of the one-day Champions Trophy in Cardiff.

"It's amazing. He (Southgate) did brilliantly. Got to the semi-final and everybody says it's great. We got knocked out of the Champions Trophy semi-final, and we're crap," added Morgan to laughter from the assembled media.

England may have suffered several injury scares in recent weeks, including his own dislocated finger, but Morgan said all of his 15-man squad were available to face the Proteas at the Oval.

"We've no injury concerns and we have a full bill of health for tomorrow," he said.

With a round-robin group stage in prospect, Morgan had no time for talk of making a statement against South Africa.

"A win under any circumstances," he said when asked what success would look like at the Oval on Thursday.

Watch:&nbsp;Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa

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Morgan said England's team had been selected but would not be revealed until the toss, with fast bowlers Liam Plunkett, Mark Wood and Tom Curran appearing to be competing for one place.

England captain Eoin Morgan says winning a home World Cup could do wonders for cricket in the sport's birthplace as he prepares to lead his team in their tournament opener against South Africa.

England captain Eoin Morgan says winning a home World Cup could do wonders for cricket in the sport's birthplace as he prepares to lead his team in their tournament opener against South Africa. England are top of the one-day international rankings and favourites to lift a trophy they have never yet won in its 44-year-history -- a far cry from their woeful first-round exit at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Television coverage of cricket in Britain has been largely hidden behind a paywall since England won the 2005 Ashes but Morgan believes a World Cup win would break through to a new audience. "It would mean a huge amount. The World Cup alone raises the profile of the game and is a platform for every young kid in this country to have a hero or have the inspiration to pick up a ball or a bat," Morgan told reporters at the Oval on Wednesday. "To go on and win it, I couldn't imagine what that would do," the former Ireland batsman added. 'Brilliant' Southgate The England cricket squad and backroom staff have spent time with England football manager Gareth Southgate, whose side revitalised interest and affection in the national team on their way to the semi-finals of last year's soccer World Cup in Russia. "We did do a session with Gareth, it was brilliant," recalled Morgan. "He got up and talked about his journey with the team in and around the World Cup, but in the build-up, as well, and how they built bigger expectations and came together more as a group. "I think everybody within the room listening who has been involved with our team over the last four years recognised that -- we started exactly where they did. Recognised what had happened in the past, drawn a line under it, tried to do things differently and move forward and enjoyed the challenge of that." But the expectations surrounding England's men's football and cricket teams are wide apart, with Morgan saying his side had received a very different reaction when they were beaten by Pakistan in the 2017 semi-finals of the one-day Champions Trophy in Cardiff. "It's amazing. He (Southgate) did brilliantly. Got to the semi-final and everybody says it's great. We got knocked out of the Champions Trophy semi-final, and we're crap," added Morgan to laughter from the assembled media. England may have suffered several injury scares in recent weeks, including his own dislocated finger, but Morgan said all of his 15-man squad were available to face the Proteas at the Oval. "We've no injury concerns and we have a full bill of health for tomorrow," he said. With a round-robin group stage in prospect, Morgan had no time for talk of making a statement against South Africa. "A win under any circumstances," he said when asked what success would look like at the Oval on Thursday. Watch: Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa × Morgan said England's team had been selected but would not be revealed until the toss, with fast bowlers Liam Plunkett, Mark Wood and Tom Curran appearing to be competing for one place.

Eoin Morgan says World Cup win for hosts could have huge impact on English cricket

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a>.

A left-right batting competition is of significant value in modern one-day internationals but two-time champions India&nbsp;have only one frontline southpaw in opener Shikhar Dhawan.

Spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could make that two if he is picked in the playing side, but Tendulkar is confident the team have enough firepower to overcome the shortage of left-handed batsmen.

"Ideally left-right combination is something which disturbs the bowler's line and length and also the captain has to readjust his fielding," Tendulkar, 46, said in an interview ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England on Thursday.

"But if you have good quality batters, which we do, then it really doesn't matter whether it is a left-hand right-hand combination. We have some solid batters who can deliver the punch."

With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the 1983 and 2011 champions have a top order the rival of any in the game.

But they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, with KL Rahul the favourite to fill the position after his century in Tuesday's practice match against Bangladesh.

Following next in the batting order will be veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup.

India's 2011 World Cup winning captain is considered the best finisher in contemporary cricket and his inputs from behind the stumps would be as important, said Tendulkar.

"It's important that someone who's standing behind the wickets has played for such a long time and has also led India and is in the best possible position to figure out what's happening off the surface," Tendulkar said.

"Whether the ball is stopping, bouncing, or skidding, whatever it is, he knows exactly how the ball is coming and he knows where the gaps are and how to close those gaps. His contribution and inputs are always going to be important.

"Other keepers also try and do the same thing but MS's experience is going to count a lot."

India boast of world's top-ranked ODI bowler in quick Jasprit Bumrah while wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also feature in the top 10.

Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer to score 100 centuries across formats, played six consecutive World Cups from 1992 and holds the records for most runs and centuries in the tournament's history.

He is confident India have a "complete" bowling attack to win their third 50-over title.

"We have someone like Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) who swings the ball, (Mohammed) Shami who is skiddy off the pitch, Bumrah who is the number one bowler in the world in this format," said Tendulkar, a member of India's 2011 World Cup triumph at home.

"We have someone like Chahal and Kuldeep who are wristspinners. So there is variety also in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja can keep things tight.

"And we have supporting bowlers in Hardik (Pandya), Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav. So all in all a well-balanced bowling attack I would say."

2019 Edition

The World Cup returns to the 10-team format to maintain quality of the competition after featuring 14 in each of the last two editions.

The decision was criticised by former players and associate nations, who are upset at being denied the chance to rub shoulders with the top sides of the world.

"Ideally if it's called the World Cup then the world should be participating. We need to find ways to engage more teams yet keep that standard of playing high," Tendulkar said.

"It's not going to happen overnight. We need to find ways to do that. I will love to see more than 10 teams participating but also at the same time not compromise on the standard of playing.

"It's going to be a lengthy process. Lesser teams should get more exposure to get ready for big tournaments."

India suffered the ignominy of being eliminated in the opening round of the tournament in 2007 while 2019 hosts England met the same fate last time the showpiece event was held in Australia and New Zealand four years back.

But this year's format -- which will see all teams playing each other with the top four advancing to the semi-finals -- will ensure teams have a shot at redemption, according to Tendulkar.

"This format still gives you a chance to come back. You are not out even before you wake up," Tendulkar said.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd483eb7-56fe-42b5-9175-3d50880474cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_6.jpg" />
"Sometimes it can be harsh. Since this is the World Cup, one would want to get another chance. If it's a bad day then you have time to recover and this format allows you to recover."

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the World Cup.

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the World Cup. A left-right batting competition is of significant value in modern one-day internationals but two-time champions India have only one frontline southpaw in opener Shikhar Dhawan. Spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could make that two if he is picked in the playing side, but Tendulkar is confident the team have enough firepower to overcome the shortage of left-handed batsmen. "Ideally left-right combination is something which disturbs the bowler's line and length and also the captain has to readjust his fielding," Tendulkar, 46, said in an interview ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England on Thursday. "But if you have good quality batters, which we do, then it really doesn't matter whether it is a left-hand right-hand combination. We have some solid batters who can deliver the punch." With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the 1983 and 2011 champions have a top order the rival of any in the game. But they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, with KL Rahul the favourite to fill the position after his century in Tuesday's practice match against Bangladesh. Following next in the batting order will be veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup. India's 2011 World Cup winning captain is considered the best finisher in contemporary cricket and his inputs from behind the stumps would be as important, said Tendulkar. "It's important that someone who's standing behind the wickets has played for such a long time and has also led India and is in the best possible position to figure out what's happening off the surface," Tendulkar said. "Whether the ball is stopping, bouncing, or skidding, whatever it is, he knows exactly how the ball is coming and he knows where the gaps are and how to close those gaps. His contribution and inputs are always going to be important. "Other keepers also try and do the same thing but MS's experience is going to count a lot." India boast of world's top-ranked ODI bowler in quick Jasprit Bumrah while wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also feature in the top 10. Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer to score 100 centuries across formats, played six consecutive World Cups from 1992 and holds the records for most runs and centuries in the tournament's history. He is confident India have a "complete" bowling attack to win their third 50-over title. "We have someone like Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) who swings the ball, (Mohammed) Shami who is skiddy off the pitch, Bumrah who is the number one bowler in the world in this format," said Tendulkar, a member of India's 2011 World Cup triumph at home. "We have someone like Chahal and Kuldeep who are wristspinners. So there is variety also in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja can keep things tight. "And we have supporting bowlers in Hardik (Pandya), Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav. So all in all a well-balanced bowling attack I would say." 2019 Edition The World Cup returns to the 10-team format to maintain quality of the competition after featuring 14 in each of the last two editions. The decision was criticised by former players and associate nations, who are upset at being denied the chance to rub shoulders with the top sides of the world. "Ideally if it's called the World Cup then the world should be participating. We need to find ways to engage more teams yet keep that standard of playing high," Tendulkar said. "It's not going to happen overnight. We need to find ways to do that. I will love to see more than 10 teams participating but also at the same time not compromise on the standard of playing. "It's going to be a lengthy process. Lesser teams should get more exposure to get ready for big tournaments." India suffered the ignominy of being eliminated in the opening round of the tournament in 2007 while 2019 hosts England met the same fate last time the showpiece event was held in Australia and New Zealand four years back. But this year's format -- which will see all teams playing each other with the top four advancing to the semi-finals -- will ensure teams have a shot at redemption, according to Tendulkar. "This format still gives you a chance to come back. You are not out even before you wake up," Tendulkar said. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "Sometimes it can be harsh. Since this is the World Cup, one would want to get another chance. If it's a bad day then you have time to recover and this format allows you to recover."

Southpaw shortage not a concern for India's batting: Sachin Tendulkar

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30.&nbsp;

The warm-up matches are over and teams have done all necessary preparations for the big event, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world.&nbsp;

The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages.

England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries.&nbsp;

This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999.&nbsp;

England launch the World Cup&nbsp;as favourites to bludgeon their way to victory for the first time but will fear a Virat Kohli-inspired India and a hungry Australia.

The host nation have never won the tournament, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992, but there is a growing sense their current crop of players can end 45 years of pain.

Boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, England are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game, while Kohli's India are also packed with superstars who have honed their skills in the Indian Premier League.

Reigning champions Australia, who won their fifth title in 2015, are boosted by the returns of star batsmen Smith and David Warner after both served bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal.

New Zealand and South Africa will also harbour hopes of World Cup glory in the 10-team tournament, in which each side will play all the others to decide the semi-finalists.

Former winners Pakistan can never be ruled out and West Indies, featuring self-styled "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle for possibly the final time in ODIs, will fancy their chances of a first World Cup triumph since 1979.

In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event, which runs from May 30 until July 14.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="199002da-69ec-4129-9162-f2166a372c8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_5.jpg" />
And the all-play-all format guarantees nine pay-days each for the world's leading cricket nations.&nbsp;

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30.

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30. The warm-up matches are over and teams have done all necessary preparations for the big event, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world. The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages. England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries. This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999. England launch the World Cup as favourites to bludgeon their way to victory for the first time but will fear a Virat Kohli-inspired India and a hungry Australia. The host nation have never won the tournament, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992, but there is a growing sense their current crop of players can end 45 years of pain. Boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, England are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game, while Kohli's India are also packed with superstars who have honed their skills in the Indian Premier League. Reigning champions Australia, who won their fifth title in 2015, are boosted by the returns of star batsmen Smith and David Warner after both served bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal. New Zealand and South Africa will also harbour hopes of World Cup glory in the 10-team tournament, in which each side will play all the others to decide the semi-finalists. Former winners Pakistan can never be ruled out and West Indies, featuring self-styled "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle for possibly the final time in ODIs, will fancy their chances of a first World Cup triumph since 1979. In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event, which runs from May 30 until July 14. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: And the all-play-all format guarantees nine pay-days each for the world's leading cricket nations.

One day to go before Cricket World Cup frenzy begins

Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed a century in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">World Cup warm-up match</a> against Bangladesh at Cardiff's Sophia Gardens on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Dhoni reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over.

But it was not his century that grabbed the attention of spectators as he is making headlines when he changed the fielder's position of the opposition team.&nbsp;

While batting in the 40th over of the Indian innings, Dhoni stopped Bangladesh leg-spinner Sabbir Rahman on his tracks and asked him to move the square-leg fielder towards his left.&nbsp;

The fun part, Sabbir Rahman moved the fielder as advised by Dhoni without even asking his captain Masrafe Mortaza.

Watch the video:

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RT abhymurarka: In yesterday's warm-up match, Dhoni stopped bowler Sabbir Rahman and advised him to move his fielder from wid-wicket to square leg in the 40th over. The bowler agreed. 
That's the level of involvement he brings to his game.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Captain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Captain</a> <a href="https://t.co/qfIrWns6OK">pic.twitter.com/qfIrWns6OK</a>
— 💰Equity Tracker💹 (@moneyzs786) <a href="https://twitter.com/moneyzs786/status/1133597365850583040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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ICC Cricket World Cup 2019: Seems like Dhoni can make the opposition play in favor of him <a href="https://t.co/ZDFjvznTux">https://t.co/ZDFjvznTux</a>
— saratkasyapa (@Saratkasyapa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saratkasyapa/status/1133601601329999877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MSD <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> gets involved in cricket so much that he sets field for other teams as well <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCWorldCup2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCBtigers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCBtigers</a> <a href="https://t.co/lzUIuSa4HF">https://t.co/lzUIuSa4HF</a>
— Narendra Nerla (@nerlanr) <a href="https://twitter.com/nerlanr/status/1133655782845583360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Despite quitting ODI and T20 captaincy in 2017, three years after he retired from Test cricket, Dhoni still remains the cricketing brain behind the Indian team, something even skipper Virat Kohli has acknowledged.&nbsp;

In the match,&nbsp;India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b16eb0bb-2144-4820-b02e-9c6ff2b92828" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_2.jpg" />
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed a century in the World Cup warm-up match against Bangladesh at Cardiff's Sophia Gardens on Tuesday. Dhoni reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over.

Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed a century in the World Cup warm-up match against Bangladesh at Cardiff's Sophia Gardens on Tuesday. Dhoni reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over. But it was not his century that grabbed the attention of spectators as he is making headlines when he changed the fielder's position of the opposition team. While batting in the 40th over of the Indian innings, Dhoni stopped Bangladesh leg-spinner Sabbir Rahman on his tracks and asked him to move the square-leg fielder towards his left. The fun part, Sabbir Rahman moved the fielder as advised by Dhoni without even asking his captain Masrafe Mortaza. Watch the video: RT abhymurarka: In yesterday's warm-up match, Dhoni stopped bowler Sabbir Rahman and advised him to move his fielder from wid-wicket to square leg in the 40th over. The bowler agreed. That's the level of involvement he brings to his game.#Captain pic.twitter.com/qfIrWns6OK — 💰Equity Tracker💹 (@moneyzs786) May 29, 2019 × ICC Cricket World Cup 2019: Seems like Dhoni can make the opposition play in favor of him https://t.co/ZDFjvznTux — saratkasyapa (@Saratkasyapa) May 29, 2019 × MSD @msdhoni gets involved in cricket so much that he sets field for other teams as well #ICCWorldCup2019 #INDvBAN @BCCI @BCBtigers https://t.co/lzUIuSa4HF — Narendra Nerla (@nerlanr) May 29, 2019 × Despite quitting ODI and T20 captaincy in 2017, three years after he retired from Test cricket, Dhoni still remains the cricketing brain behind the Indian team, something even skipper Virat Kohli has acknowledged. In the match, India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359. Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff.

Watch: MS Dhoni sets field for Bangladesh while batting in World Cup warm-up match

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-usman-khawaja-given-all-clear-after-head-knock-in-world-cup-warm-up-game-against-windies-220805&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVr_yuvr3iAhVJYo8KHV86CzQQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2gdMUGcRGpI4-WkFoSXW7E">Usman Khawaja</a> provided Australia coach Justin Langer with a selection headache ahead of the defending champion's Cricket World Cup opener on Saturday against Afghanistan with another strong outing in their final warmup match.

The left-hander, batting in his preferred opening position, anchored Australia's five-wicket victory with the top score of 89 against Sri Lanka.

Langer now has the unenviable task of trying to decide the makeup of his batting lineup for their first game in Bristol, with captain Aaron Finch and the recalled <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-smith-warner-return-ricky-ponting-backs-usman-khawaja-to-make-australias-world-cup-squad-204481&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVr_yuvr3iAhVJYo8KHV86CzQQFjABegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rdpgfKqA89k4uiFkXG-x7">David Warner also in the mix to open the innings</a>.

Khawaja, who only returned to the one-day side earlier this year after a two-year absence, has prospered upon his recall and scored 655 runs in 10 innings as an opener, well above his career average of 44.21.

Warner's return from a 12-month ban for ball tampering and his scintillating form in the Indian Premier League, where he was the top run scorer, has complicated the equation but Khawaja does not care where he bats.

"I do love opening, that's where I've batted my whole life in one-day cricket," Khawaja told reporters.

"(But) I wasn't thinking about securing an opening berth," he said of Monday's innings where he rotated the strike and kept the scoreboard ticking over.&nbsp;

"It's about winning games and doing the best for the team," he added.&nbsp;

Khawaja's innings -&nbsp;he hit only three boundaries in his 105-ball knock -&nbsp;was impressive given he had sustained a painful blow to the inside of his knee while fielding.

"It's sore," said Khawaja, who also had retired hurt against West Indies last week after being struck in the head by an Andre Russell bouncer.

"I was told to stay down but I thought I wasn't going to do that, so I tried to get up and my knee just collapsed underneath me. I iced it for about 25 minutes and (there is) nothing structurally wrong," he said.

Whatever lineup Langer chooses to send out against Afghanistan, Khawaja said the side were confident they could go on and secure Australia's sixth World Cup title after they have turned the side's fortunes around in the last three months.

They have won their last eight official one-day international matches, which includes series victories in India and the UAE against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Prior to the start of that winning run at Ranchi in early March, the team had lost 15 of their previous 18 ODIs and Khawaja said he knew which result he preferred.

"I know what it feels like when you're losing and I know what it's like when winning, it`s obvious which one you want," he said.

"Winning is a habit, we say that a lot among the team. We want to keep that going, we might have lost that before, but we might have found that again heading into the World Cup," Khawaja added.

Usman Khawaja provided Australia coach Justin Langer with a selection headache ahead of the defending champion's Cricket World Cup opener on Saturday against Afghanistan with another strong outing in their final warmup match.

Usman Khawaja provided Australia coach Justin Langer with a selection headache ahead of the defending champion's Cricket World Cup opener on Saturday against Afghanistan with another strong outing in their final warmup match. The left-hander, batting in his preferred opening position, anchored Australia's five-wicket victory with the top score of 89 against Sri Lanka. Langer now has the unenviable task of trying to decide the makeup of his batting lineup for their first game in Bristol, with captain Aaron Finch and the recalled David Warner also in the mix to open the innings. Khawaja, who only returned to the one-day side earlier this year after a two-year absence, has prospered upon his recall and scored 655 runs in 10 innings as an opener, well above his career average of 44.21. Warner's return from a 12-month ban for ball tampering and his scintillating form in the Indian Premier League, where he was the top run scorer, has complicated the equation but Khawaja does not care where he bats. "I do love opening, that's where I've batted my whole life in one-day cricket," Khawaja told reporters. "(But) I wasn't thinking about securing an opening berth," he said of Monday's innings where he rotated the strike and kept the scoreboard ticking over. "It's about winning games and doing the best for the team," he added. Khawaja's innings - he hit only three boundaries in his 105-ball knock - was impressive given he had sustained a painful blow to the inside of his knee while fielding. "It's sore," said Khawaja, who also had retired hurt against West Indies last week after being struck in the head by an Andre Russell bouncer. "I was told to stay down but I thought I wasn't going to do that, so I tried to get up and my knee just collapsed underneath me. I iced it for about 25 minutes and (there is) nothing structurally wrong," he said. Whatever lineup Langer chooses to send out against Afghanistan, Khawaja said the side were confident they could go on and secure Australia's sixth World Cup title after they have turned the side's fortunes around in the last three months. They have won their last eight official one-day international matches, which includes series victories in India and the UAE against Pakistan. Prior to the start of that winning run at Ranchi in early March, the team had lost 15 of their previous 18 ODIs and Khawaja said he knew which result he preferred. "I know what it feels like when you're losing and I know what it's like when winning, it`s obvious which one you want," he said. "Winning is a habit, we say that a lot among the team. We want to keep that going, we might have lost that before, but we might have found that again heading into the World Cup," Khawaja added.

Usman Khawaja causes selection headache before Australia's opening World Cup game

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