India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack.&nbsp;

"You need a skipper who backs you and believes in your ability to shine on the big stage. You think we could have been so successful if Kohli bhai had not given us the freedom to attack? I don't think so," Kuldeep told PTI in an interview.&nbsp;

Kuldeep, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders, was badly let down by the batting-friendly conditions at Eden Gardens in this year's IPL as he returned with just four wickets from nine matches before being dropped by his franchise in the business end of the tournament.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old said he is looking forward to put the IPL disappointment behind with a spectacular performance in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30.&nbsp;

"IPL is very different than World Cup. There are players who have done well in IPL but have struggled to make a mark for the country. I've matured as a bowler and by no means it will affect my performance in the World Cup," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

"It's (T20) such a format, you may have a bad day where you're hit for runs. I'm not a magician who will do well in every match. You cannot say I will take so many wickets."&nbsp;

By his own standard, an average of 71.50 in IPL is something he would look to forget. &nbsp;

"If I'm not getting wickets it does not mean I'm not bowling well. Now I play as a mature cricketer and think more about the team," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

Kuldeep also spoke about the recent controversy about his comments on Mahendra Singh Dhoni that sometimes the former skipper "goes wrong" with his tips.&nbsp;

"How can a youngster like me make such comments on a senior member of the side? My comments had been misinterpreted by media to create a controversy," he said.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that his tips have been invaluable not only for me but for the entire team. His presence behind the stumps makes our job easy and nobody can change that fact. We wouldn't have been half as effective without his inputs."&nbsp;

Andre Russell was a terror in the IPL with his batting exploits and single-handedly turned KKR's fortunes before they failed to make the playoffs.&nbsp;

Kuldeep said he has learnt a few tricks which he would employ against the West Indian in the World Cup.&nbsp;

"He has some problems facing a turning ball. If the ball is turning, then he has a weakness. It's not just this, I've different plans to unleash against him in the World Cup. I know how to stop him and I'm very clear in my mind," he signed off. &nbsp;

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack.

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack. "You need a skipper who backs you and believes in your ability to shine on the big stage. You think we could have been so successful if Kohli bhai had not given us the freedom to attack? I don't think so," Kuldeep told PTI in an interview. Kuldeep, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders, was badly let down by the batting-friendly conditions at Eden Gardens in this year's IPL as he returned with just four wickets from nine matches before being dropped by his franchise in the business end of the tournament. The 24-year-old said he is looking forward to put the IPL disappointment behind with a spectacular performance in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30. "IPL is very different than World Cup. There are players who have done well in IPL but have struggled to make a mark for the country. I've matured as a bowler and by no means it will affect my performance in the World Cup," Kuldeep said. "It's (T20) such a format, you may have a bad day where you're hit for runs. I'm not a magician who will do well in every match. You cannot say I will take so many wickets." By his own standard, an average of 71.50 in IPL is something he would look to forget. "If I'm not getting wickets it does not mean I'm not bowling well. Now I play as a mature cricketer and think more about the team," Kuldeep said. Kuldeep also spoke about the recent controversy about his comments on Mahendra Singh Dhoni that sometimes the former skipper "goes wrong" with his tips. "How can a youngster like me make such comments on a senior member of the side? My comments had been misinterpreted by media to create a controversy," he said. "There is no doubt that his tips have been invaluable not only for me but for the entire team. His presence behind the stumps makes our job easy and nobody can change that fact. We wouldn't have been half as effective without his inputs." Andre Russell was a terror in the IPL with his batting exploits and single-handedly turned KKR's fortunes before they failed to make the playoffs. Kuldeep said he has learnt a few tricks which he would employ against the West Indian in the World Cup. "He has some problems facing a turning ball. If the ball is turning, then he has a weakness. It's not just this, I've different plans to unleash against him in the World Cup. I know how to stop him and I'm very clear in my mind," he signed off.

'IPL is very different than World Cup,' says Kuldeep Yadav on his performance

The winners of the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, which is hosted by England and Wales, will earn a cash award of $4 million. This is the highest prize money on offer in the history of the tournament.&nbsp;

A total of 10 countries will participate, having one dream in common, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world.&nbsp;

England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries.&nbsp;

The winner will also get a trophy that they will lift at the historic Lord's, a statement from the ICC read.&nbsp;

The runners-up will take home $2 million and the losing semi-finalists $800,000 each at the end of the 46-day tournament being played across 11 venues.&nbsp;

There are prizes for each league match won, in what promises to be a competitive tournament with the world's best teams playing each other in a round-robin format.&nbsp;

ICC CWC 2019 Prize Money:&nbsp; 
Winners (1) $4,000,000&nbsp; 
Runners-Up (1) $2,000,00&nbsp; 
Losing Semi-Finalists (2) $800,000 each&nbsp; 
Winners of each league stage match (45): $40,000 each&nbsp; 
Teams that do pass the league stage (6) $100,000 each&nbsp;

The winners of the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2019, which is hosted by England and Wales, will earn a cash award of $4 million. This is the highest prize money on offer in the history of the tournament.

The winners of the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2019, which is hosted by England and Wales, will earn a cash award of $4 million. This is the highest prize money on offer in the history of the tournament. A total of 10 countries will participate, having one dream in common, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world. England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries. The winner will also get a trophy that they will lift at the historic Lord's, a statement from the ICC read. The runners-up will take home $2 million and the losing semi-finalists $800,000 each at the end of the 46-day tournament being played across 11 venues. There are prizes for each league match won, in what promises to be a competitive tournament with the world's best teams playing each other in a round-robin format. ICC CWC 2019 Prize Money: Winners (1) $4,000,000 Runners-Up (1) $2,000,00 Losing Semi-Finalists (2) $800,000 each Winners of each league stage match (45): $40,000 each Teams that do pass the league stage (6) $100,000 each

Winner of Cricket World Cup 2019 to earn highest prize money in history of tournament

Throwback to ICC Cricket World Cup 2011: India becomes first team to win final on home soil

South African pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Kagiso+Rabada">Kagiso Rabada</a> is likely to be fit for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30 in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Rabada, who played for Delhi team in Indian Premier League 2019, suffered a back injury and was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA).&nbsp;

Despite his early departure from the IPL, Rabada ended the tournament as the second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-awards-from-most-runs-to-best-catch-heres-a-list-all-the-winners-218212">highest wicket-taker</a>&nbsp;behind Chennai's Imran Tahir. &nbsp;

South Africa boar's doctor Mohammed Moosajee over the weekend said CSA's medical team was being "extra cautious" in managing Rabada's workload because of his history with back injuries, ESPNcricinfo reported.&nbsp;

Earlier, Moosajee, in a statement issued by CSA, had said, "With KG (Rabada), we are extra cautious because of two reasons. He had a back issue that kept him out of the game for a protracted amount of time."&nbsp;

"Secondly, there's his importance in the squad, so we're managing his rehab and his return to play very carefully. The anticipated recovery period for KG's injury is two to three weeks and we are hopeful he'll make a full recovery to be part of the World Cup squad," he added.&nbsp;

South Africa will start their World Cup campaign on the opening day of the tournament against the hosts England but the team is already affected by injuries to Dale Steyn and Lungi Nigidi.&nbsp;

Steyn, who played for the Bangalore, was forced to withdraw from the IPL after sustaining a shoulder injury after two matches.&nbsp;

While Ngidi, who was signed by Chennai, was ruled out of the tournament after picking up a side strain during the ODI series against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is likely to be fit for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30 in England and Wales. Rabada, who played for Delhi team in Indian Premier League 2019, suffered a back injury and was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA).

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is likely to be fit for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30 in England and Wales. Rabada, who played for Delhi team in Indian Premier League 2019, suffered a back injury and was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA). Despite his early departure from the IPL, Rabada ended the tournament as the second highest wicket-taker behind Chennai's Imran Tahir. South Africa boar's doctor Mohammed Moosajee over the weekend said CSA's medical team was being "extra cautious" in managing Rabada's workload because of his history with back injuries, ESPNcricinfo reported. Earlier, Moosajee, in a statement issued by CSA, had said, "With KG (Rabada), we are extra cautious because of two reasons. He had a back issue that kept him out of the game for a protracted amount of time." "Secondly, there's his importance in the squad, so we're managing his rehab and his return to play very carefully. The anticipated recovery period for KG's injury is two to three weeks and we are hopeful he'll make a full recovery to be part of the World Cup squad," he added. South Africa will start their World Cup campaign on the opening day of the tournament against the hosts England but the team is already affected by injuries to Dale Steyn and Lungi Nigidi. Steyn, who played for the Bangalore, was forced to withdraw from the IPL after sustaining a shoulder injury after two matches. While Ngidi, who was signed by Chennai, was ruled out of the tournament after picking up a side strain during the ODI series against Sri Lanka.

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada likely to be fit ahead of World Cup

With just 21 days left for the twelfth edition of cricket World Cup, we take a look at the past captains who have successfully led their teams to World Cup glory and lifted the illustrious trophy. &nbsp;

Only two captains have won the world cup two times, Ricky Ponting for Australia and Clive Lloyd for West Indies.&nbsp;

Australia was the first team to win the three consecutive World Cups and is also the only team to win this tournament five times.

Here's a list of World Cup winning captains:&nbsp;

Clive Lloyd&nbsp; 
The West Indies captain has led his team to lift the World Cup twice.

Sir Lloyd led the Windies to victories in the opening edition of the World Cup in 1975 as well as the following World Cup in 1979.&nbsp;

Kapil Dev 
Captain of the Indian team, Kapil Dev lifted the World Cup in 1983 defeating the mighty West Indies.

India shocked the world under the charismatic captaincy of Kapil Dev, who took the catch of Clive Lloyd that changed the game in India's favour.&nbsp;

Alan Border 
The Australian captain was leading a fairly inexperienced team and they were not considered favourites at the start of the tournament.

But Border's leadership helped Australia lift the World Cup in 1987.

Imran Khan&nbsp; 
Khan led the Pakistan team to their first and only win at the World Cup in 1992.

Pakistan beat England in the final and Khan was the highest scoring batsman for the team.

Arjuna Ranatunga&nbsp; 
The Sri-Lankan team led by Ranatunga won their first World Cup in 1996 playing against Australia.

Ranatunga scored a century in the Final and the winning runs were scored off his bat too.

Steve Waugh 
The Australian captain played the innings of the tournament, saving his team an early exit from the Cup.

Playing against South Africa in the semi-finals, he scored 120 after an early collapse of the team.

He went on to lead his team to win the World Cup.

Ricky Ponting 
The only other captain to have led his team to lift the World Cup twice after Clive Lloyd is Ricky Ponting.

Under his captaincy in both the World Cups, Australia did not lose even a single match and went on to win unbeaten.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni 
India's long wait for their second World Cup ended under the captaincy of MS Dhoni in 2011.

Having led the Indian side to win the 2007 &nbsp;World T20 title, Dhoni now had the experience of four years which showed in the World Cup 2011.

Dhoni's winning six to bring up the victory in the 49th over remains one of the greatest moments in the history of Indian cricket.&nbsp;

Michael Clarke 
Clarke led the Australian team to win their 5th World Cup title in 2015.

In the final, the Australians took hold of the game early and dismissed New Zealand for 183, before chasing the target easily under the leadership of Clarke.

The captains of the participating teams for the upcoming Cricket World Cup are:&nbsp;

India - &nbsp;Virat Kohli

Australia - Aaron Finch

England - Eoin Morgan

Pakistan - Sarfaraz Ahmed

Afghanistan - Gulbadin Naib

Bangladesh - Mashrafe Mortaza

New Zealand - Kane Williamson

South Africa &nbsp;- Faf du Plessis

Sri Lanka &nbsp;- Dimuth Karunaratne

West Indies - Jason Holder

With just 21 days left for the twelfth edition of cricket World Cup, we take a look at the past captains who have successfully led their teams to World Cup glory and lifted the illustrious trophy.

With just 21 days left for the twelfth edition of cricket World Cup, we take a look at the past captains who have successfully led their teams to World Cup glory and lifted the illustrious trophy. Only two captains have won the world cup two times, Ricky Ponting for Australia and Clive Lloyd for West Indies. Australia was the first team to win the three consecutive World Cups and is also the only team to win this tournament five times. Here's a list of World Cup winning captains: Clive Lloyd The West Indies captain has led his team to lift the World Cup twice. Sir Lloyd led the Windies to victories in the opening edition of the World Cup in 1975 as well as the following World Cup in 1979. Kapil Dev Captain of the Indian team, Kapil Dev lifted the World Cup in 1983 defeating the mighty West Indies. India shocked the world under the charismatic captaincy of Kapil Dev, who took the catch of Clive Lloyd that changed the game in India's favour. Alan Border The Australian captain was leading a fairly inexperienced team and they were not considered favourites at the start of the tournament. But Border's leadership helped Australia lift the World Cup in 1987. Imran Khan Khan led the Pakistan team to their first and only win at the World Cup in 1992. Pakistan beat England in the final and Khan was the highest scoring batsman for the team. Arjuna Ranatunga The Sri-Lankan team led by Ranatunga won their first World Cup in 1996 playing against Australia. Ranatunga scored a century in the Final and the winning runs were scored off his bat too. Steve Waugh The Australian captain played the innings of the tournament, saving his team an early exit from the Cup. Playing against South Africa in the semi-finals, he scored 120 after an early collapse of the team. He went on to lead his team to win the World Cup. Ricky Ponting The only other captain to have led his team to lift the World Cup twice after Clive Lloyd is Ricky Ponting. Under his captaincy in both the World Cups, Australia did not lose even a single match and went on to win unbeaten. Mahendra Singh Dhoni India's long wait for their second World Cup ended under the captaincy of MS Dhoni in 2011. Having led the Indian side to win the 2007 World T20 title, Dhoni now had the experience of four years which showed in the World Cup 2011. Dhoni's winning six to bring up the victory in the 49th over remains one of the greatest moments in the history of Indian cricket. Michael Clarke Clarke led the Australian team to win their 5th World Cup title in 2015. In the final, the Australians took hold of the game early and dismissed New Zealand for 183, before chasing the target easily under the leadership of Clarke. The captains of the participating teams for the upcoming Cricket World Cup are: India - Virat Kohli Australia - Aaron Finch England - Eoin Morgan Pakistan - Sarfaraz Ahmed Afghanistan - Gulbadin Naib Bangladesh - Mashrafe Mortaza New Zealand - Kane Williamson South Africa - Faf du Plessis Sri Lanka - Dimuth Karunaratne West Indies - Jason Holder

From Clive Lloyd to Michael Clarke, a look back at Cricket World Cup winning captains

ICC World Cup 2019: All teams and their squad list

Weeks ahead of the start of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, the Indian side has lifted the trophy. Only that this is a far younger Indian side, and this is the Street Child Cricket World Cup where 10 national teams, consisting of girls and boys represented their respective countries.&nbsp;

This was the first and inaugural edition of the Street Child World Cup.&nbsp;

The charitable organisation behind the tournament, Street Child United has been working for over ten years to use the power of sport, specifically international sports events to change the negative perceptions and treatment of street-connected children everywhere.&nbsp;

In the past, they have organised football tournaments and Street Child Games, all of which have been held in the host city of the Football World Cup and the Olympic Games respectively.&nbsp;

The format of the street Child Cricket World Cup involves six-member teams taking on each other in a twenty-ball match.&nbsp;

The squad consists of eight members and comprises an equal number of boys and girls who are aged between 14 and 17.&nbsp;

One team each from Bangladesh, England, Congo, Mauritius, Nepal, West Indies and Tanzania took part in the tournament, whereas India was represented by two teams- India North and India South.&nbsp;

While team India North was represented by children of Hope Foundation and Save the Children India, on the other hand, children of Karunalaya Social Service Society and Magic Bus represented team India South.&nbsp;

After several playoffs match the India South team faced off with team England at the iconic Lord's stadium on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The India South side that was captained by V Paulraj from Chennai went on to beat the English side. The Indian side scored 47 runs against the 42 scored by the English players.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Paul Sundar Singh, the founder of Karunalaya NGO which partnered in sponsoring the children of team India South said, "It was struggle to take the team to London for the World cup. We came with debt and deficit, but our aim is to give street children an opportunity like this and a platform for their voices to be heard. I’m very happy for the children as they have proved how they could become champions and make our country proud, now we hope street children will be respected."

During her turn to speak at the General Assembly in Thomas Lord’s suite, Monisha who hails from Chennai mentioned about her life on the street without protection, basic facilities such as water, toilets, clean food etc.&nbsp;

Monisha also touched upon the aspect of risk of abuse that street children face. She called for action saying, "If you respect us, you will listen to us. If you listen to us, you will protect us. please protect us."&nbsp;

Paulraj, the captain of the winning side said that it was a big joy and that he had felt never-like-before happiness after he and his team received the cup in their hands.&nbsp;

Weeks ahead of the start of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, the Indian side has lifted the trophy. Only that this is a far younger Indian side, and this is the Street Child Cricket World Cup where 10 national teams, consisting of girls and boys represented their respective countries.

Weeks ahead of the start of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, the Indian side has lifted the trophy. Only that this is a far younger Indian side, and this is the Street Child Cricket World Cup where 10 national teams, consisting of girls and boys represented their respective countries. This was the first and inaugural edition of the Street Child World Cup. The charitable organisation behind the tournament, Street Child United has been working for over ten years to use the power of sport, specifically international sports events to change the negative perceptions and treatment of street-connected children everywhere. In the past, they have organised football tournaments and Street Child Games, all of which have been held in the host city of the Football World Cup and the Olympic Games respectively. The format of the street Child Cricket World Cup involves six-member teams taking on each other in a twenty-ball match. The squad consists of eight members and comprises an equal number of boys and girls who are aged between 14 and 17. One team each from Bangladesh, England, Congo, Mauritius, Nepal, West Indies and Tanzania took part in the tournament, whereas India was represented by two teams- India North and India South. While team India North was represented by children of Hope Foundation and Save the Children India, on the other hand, children of Karunalaya Social Service Society and Magic Bus represented team India South. After several playoffs match the India South team faced off with team England at the iconic Lord's stadium on Tuesday. The India South side that was captained by V Paulraj from Chennai went on to beat the English side. The Indian side scored 47 runs against the 42 scored by the English players. Speaking to WION, Paul Sundar Singh, the founder of Karunalaya NGO which partnered in sponsoring the children of team India South said, "It was struggle to take the team to London for the World cup. We came with debt and deficit, but our aim is to give street children an opportunity like this and a platform for their voices to be heard. I’m very happy for the children as they have proved how they could become champions and make our country proud, now we hope street children will be respected." During her turn to speak at the General Assembly in Thomas Lord’s suite, Monisha who hails from Chennai mentioned about her life on the street without protection, basic facilities such as water, toilets, clean food etc. Monisha also touched upon the aspect of risk of abuse that street children face. She called for action saying, "If you respect us, you will listen to us. If you listen to us, you will protect us. please protect us." Paulraj, the captain of the winning side said that it was a big joy and that he had felt never-like-before happiness after he and his team received the cup in their hands.

Team from India wins Street Child Cricket World Cup in England

Former captain <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-prepares-for-83-in-full-gear-to-live-in-kapil-devs-delhi-home-for-10-days-216945&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiK3eXY-4viAhV28HMBHVjsANUQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0dRrF9abxtVDMaA2Lmj5ve">Kapil Dev</a> Wednesday pegged India as one of the top three <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/transformed-england-favourites-to-win-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-216311&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBtqCq-4viAhWl63MBHcbFCjsQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw37_a5YKdvJRg5kCUNbPBio">favourites to win the World Cup</a>, which starts later this month, saying their pace bowling would come good in seaming English conditions.

India open their campaign against South Africa on June 5 in Southampton with an eye on clinching their third title in the 50-over showpiece event.

"Winning team looks like <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid3r6j_IviAhUG73MBHaExChYQFjACegQIBBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Eow1gRBd4h-KAFEuHB7ZV">India, England and Australia and surprise package can be New Zealand</a>," the Indian World Cup-winning skipper told reporters at a promotional event in New Delhi.

"India has the combination of youth and experience. They have the right balance in four fast bowlers, three spinners and two big names in Virat Kohli and (MS) Dhoni," he said.

India's pace battery is led by Jasprit Bumrah, the world's top bowler in the one-day format, and includes Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hardik Pandya.

Bumrah has been hailed for his ability to bowl yorkers at the death, while Shami and Kumar have also impressed.&nbsp;

"They are fantastic, very good. English conditions will help them. They can swing the ball," said Dev, known as "Haryana Hurricane" during his playing days for his pace.

"They have Bumrah and Shami who can bowl 145 (kmph) plus. So we have swing, we have pace. That's a very good combination to have", Dev added.

Dev, who led India to their maiden World Cup in 1983 when his side beat two-time champions West Indies to take the trophy at Lord's, said it was the "belief" which separated winners from the rest.

Dev slammed comparisons between him and star all-rounder Pandya who has impressed with his power hitting in the team's middle order and skills as a medium-pace bowler.

The 25-year-old Pandya, who is set to play his first 50-over World Cup, has earned his place in the Indian XI with 731 runs and 44 wickets in 45 ODIs since making his debut in 2016.

"He is an upcoming player... Please do not pressure him. He is a young talent, let him play his cricket with his own free mind," said Dev.

When quizzed about the on-field chemistry between former captain Dhoni and Kohli, Dev said both the players were crucial to India's World Cup hopes.&nbsp;

"Both the cricketers have done so well for India, unmatchable. First, all of them should understand that they are not playing for themselves but playing for the country", Dev said.

Former captain Kapil Dev Wednesday pegged India as one of the top three favourites to win the World Cup, which starts later this month, saying their pace bowling would come good in seaming English conditions.

Former captain Kapil Dev Wednesday pegged India as one of the top three favourites to win the World Cup, which starts later this month, saying their pace bowling would come good in seaming English conditions. India open their campaign against South Africa on June 5 in Southampton with an eye on clinching their third title in the 50-over showpiece event. "Winning team looks like India, England and Australia and surprise package can be New Zealand," the Indian World Cup-winning skipper told reporters at a promotional event in New Delhi. "India has the combination of youth and experience. They have the right balance in four fast bowlers, three spinners and two big names in Virat Kohli and (MS) Dhoni," he said. India's pace battery is led by Jasprit Bumrah, the world's top bowler in the one-day format, and includes Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hardik Pandya. Bumrah has been hailed for his ability to bowl yorkers at the death, while Shami and Kumar have also impressed. "They are fantastic, very good. English conditions will help them. They can swing the ball," said Dev, known as "Haryana Hurricane" during his playing days for his pace. "They have Bumrah and Shami who can bowl 145 (kmph) plus. So we have swing, we have pace. That's a very good combination to have", Dev added. Dev, who led India to their maiden World Cup in 1983 when his side beat two-time champions West Indies to take the trophy at Lord's, said it was the "belief" which separated winners from the rest. Dev slammed comparisons between him and star all-rounder Pandya who has impressed with his power hitting in the team's middle order and skills as a medium-pace bowler. The 25-year-old Pandya, who is set to play his first 50-over World Cup, has earned his place in the Indian XI with 731 runs and 44 wickets in 45 ODIs since making his debut in 2016. "He is an upcoming player... Please do not pressure him. He is a young talent, let him play his cricket with his own free mind," said Dev. When quizzed about the on-field chemistry between former captain Dhoni and Kohli, Dev said both the players were crucial to India's World Cup hopes. "Both the cricketers have done so well for India, unmatchable. First, all of them should understand that they are not playing for themselves but playing for the country", Dev said.

India among favourites to win World Cup, says Kapil Dev

The Afghan cricket team will soon be sporting a logo of an Indian company on their jerseys. India's well-known dairy brand, Amul will be sponsoring Afghan cricket team for upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ICC+Cricket+World+Cup">ICC Cricket World Cup</a> in England and Wales, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

MD of Amul RS Sodhi&nbsp;speaking to WION on the announcement said, "Amul is the main sponsor. On the arm and jersey, we will have Amul logo. It's our first sponsorship of a cricket team. We have high hopes. Let us see how it goes."

Thanking, Amul, India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI),&nbsp;Asadullah Khan, the CEO of Afghan cricket board told WION, "You know, cricket is number one sports in Afghanistan. Everyone love and likes cricket. Its good sign of peace. BCCI is helping us, and also the govt, it's a good opportunity. It will help in peace."

Amul is the first sponsor from India of an Afghan cricket team.

Asked about India's role in supporting Afghan cricket Asadullah said, "India has helped us. Embassy of India has helped us. They are making grounds. They making ground in Kandahar. They promised us, they will make a rehab center in Kabul for Afghan cricket."&nbsp;

India is helping building Kandahar cricket stadium. With a capacity of 14,000, the stadium is being built with $1million grant from India. New Delhi is also building a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif.&nbsp;

Other than this, India is providing two "home grounds"&nbsp;in Greater Noida and Dehradun for Afghan team and also, technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan Cricket Board.&nbsp;

Afghan team will play a warm-up match with Pakistan on May 24 with England on May 27.&nbsp;

The schedule of World Cup matches of Afghanistan team is as follows:&nbsp;

VS Australia on June 1 
VS Sri Lanka on June 4 
VS New Zealand on June 8 
VS South Africa on June 15 
VS England on June 18 
VS India on June 22 
VS Bangladesh on June 24 
VS Pakistan on June 29 
VS West Indes on July 4

The Afghan cricket team will soon be sporting a logo of an Indian company on their jerseys. India's well-known dairy brand, Amul will be sponsoring Afghan cricket team for upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

The Afghan cricket team will soon be sporting a logo of an Indian company on their jerseys. India's well-known dairy brand, Amul will be sponsoring Afghan cricket team for upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30. MD of Amul RS Sodhi speaking to WION on the announcement said, "Amul is the main sponsor. On the arm and jersey, we will have Amul logo. It's our first sponsorship of a cricket team. We have high hopes. Let us see how it goes." Thanking, Amul, India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Asadullah Khan, the CEO of Afghan cricket board told WION, "You know, cricket is number one sports in Afghanistan. Everyone love and likes cricket. Its good sign of peace. BCCI is helping us, and also the govt, it's a good opportunity. It will help in peace." Amul is the first sponsor from India of an Afghan cricket team. Asked about India's role in supporting Afghan cricket Asadullah said, "India has helped us. Embassy of India has helped us. They are making grounds. They making ground in Kandahar. They promised us, they will make a rehab center in Kabul for Afghan cricket." India is helping building Kandahar cricket stadium. With a capacity of 14,000, the stadium is being built with $1million grant from India. New Delhi is also building a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif. Other than this, India is providing two "home grounds" in Greater Noida and Dehradun for Afghan team and also, technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan Cricket Board. Afghan team will play a warm-up match with Pakistan on May 24 with England on May 27. The schedule of World Cup matches of Afghanistan team is as follows: VS Australia on June 1 VS Sri Lanka on June 4 VS New Zealand on June 8 VS South Africa on June 15 VS England on June 18 VS India on June 22 VS Bangladesh on June 24 VS Pakistan on June 29 VS West Indes on July 4

'Good sign of peace,' says Afghanistan cricket board on getting Indian sponsor for ICC World Cup 2019

Just 24 days to go!

ICC Cricket World Cup is arriving soon and the teams are preparing to display their best performance to clinch the coveted trophy. Squads have been announced for the cricket war but before it begins, let's analyse how the teams have been stacked up. &nbsp;

Oldest squad 
In the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, Sri Lankan contingent is the oldest with an average age of 29.9. Jeevan Mendis, who has not played a single One-Day-International match since 2015, is included along with Lasith Malinga, 35, and Suranga Lakmal, 32.&nbsp;

Batsman Lahiru Thirimanne, leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay and all-rounders Milinda Siriwardana got places.&nbsp;

Opening batsman Avishka Fernando and paceman Nuwan Pradeep were also included in the squad for the tournament.&nbsp;

South Africa posses the tournament's oldest player, the leg-spinner Imran Tahir, who is 40-year-old.&nbsp;

Besides Sri Lanka, South Africa and England also have a mix of veteran and young guns, with average squad ages of 29.5.&nbsp;

The 1996 champions kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1.

Sri Lanka's complete squad: 
Dimuth Karunaratne (capt), Lasith Malinga, Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kusal Mendis, Isuru Udana, Milinda Siriwardana, Avishka Fernando, Jeevan Mendis, Lahiru Thirimanne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal.&nbsp;

Youngest squad 
On the other hand, with an average of 27.3, Pakistan's squad is the youngest squad at this summer's Cricket World Cup. It is followed very closely by Afghanistan (27.4).&nbsp;

Pakistan will enter the tournament with 19-year-old pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Hasnain.&nbsp;

While Afghanistan's 18-year-old Mujeeb Ur Rahman is the youngest player at the tournament.&nbsp;

Mohammad Hafeez was included in the World Cup squad subject to fully recovering from a fractured thumb he sustained during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in February this year.&nbsp;

Pakistan selectors&nbsp;left out pacer spearhead Mohammad Amir from the preliminary 15-man squad but he is included in the 17-man squad,&nbsp;as one of two additions to the 15-man Cup squad, for the five-match one-day series against England from May 5-19 and can regain a place for the World Cup if he performs well.

There was a surprise World Cup call-up for 19-year-old rookie fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain who bowled at 150kph in the PSL earlier this year.&nbsp;

Pakistan's complete squad: 
Sarfaraz Ahmed (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Shoaib Malik, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Hassan Ali, Abid Ali, Mohammad Hafeez, Imad Wasim, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Sohail.&nbsp;

Just 24 days to go! ICC Cricket World Cup is arriving soon and the teams are preparing to display their best performance to clinch the coveted trophy. Squads have been announced for the cricket war but before it begins, let's analyse how the teams have been stacked up.

Just 24 days to go! ICC Cricket World Cup is arriving soon and the teams are preparing to display their best performance to clinch the coveted trophy. Squads have been announced for the cricket war but before it begins, let's analyse how the teams have been stacked up. Oldest squad In the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, Sri Lankan contingent is the oldest with an average age of 29.9. Jeevan Mendis, who has not played a single One-Day-International match since 2015, is included along with Lasith Malinga, 35, and Suranga Lakmal, 32. Batsman Lahiru Thirimanne, leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay and all-rounders Milinda Siriwardana got places. Opening batsman Avishka Fernando and paceman Nuwan Pradeep were also included in the squad for the tournament. South Africa posses the tournament's oldest player, the leg-spinner Imran Tahir, who is 40-year-old. Besides Sri Lanka, South Africa and England also have a mix of veteran and young guns, with average squad ages of 29.5. The 1996 champions kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1. Sri Lanka's complete squad: Dimuth Karunaratne (capt), Lasith Malinga, Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kusal Mendis, Isuru Udana, Milinda Siriwardana, Avishka Fernando, Jeevan Mendis, Lahiru Thirimanne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal. Youngest squad On the other hand, with an average of 27.3, Pakistan's squad is the youngest squad at this summer's Cricket World Cup. It is followed very closely by Afghanistan (27.4). Pakistan will enter the tournament with 19-year-old pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Hasnain. While Afghanistan's 18-year-old Mujeeb Ur Rahman is the youngest player at the tournament. Mohammad Hafeez was included in the World Cup squad subject to fully recovering from a fractured thumb he sustained during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in February this year. Pakistan selectors left out pacer spearhead Mohammad Amir from the preliminary 15-man squad but he is included in the 17-man squad, as one of two additions to the 15-man Cup squad, for the five-match one-day series against England from May 5-19 and can regain a place for the World Cup if he performs well. There was a surprise World Cup call-up for 19-year-old rookie fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain who bowled at 150kph in the PSL earlier this year. Pakistan's complete squad: Sarfaraz Ahmed (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Shoaib Malik, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Hassan Ali, Abid Ali, Mohammad Hafeez, Imad Wasim, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Sohail.

Old or young? How squads stack up in Cricket World Cup 2019

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav sustained a shoulder injury during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-kl-rahul-chris-gayle-shine-as-punjab-defeat-chennai-by-six-wickets-216149">clash between Chennai and Punjab</a> in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The player has been ruled out for the remainder of the IPL and his participation in the upcoming World Cup hangs in the balance, raising alarm bells in the Indian camp.

"Kedar Jadhav's getting an x-ray and a scan tomorrow. I don't think we'll see him again in this tournament for us. He's in some discomfort. Fingers crossed that it is nothing too serious, but it didn't look that good,"

Chennai coach Stephen Fleming told reporters after the match between Punjab and Chennai on Sunday.

Jadhav sustained the injury while attempting to stop an overthrow during Punjab's innings. The player was visibly uncomfortable and he left the field after the 14th over.

The player is all set to undergo scans today, and the Indian team would hope nothing serious comes out from the reports as he is considered as a vital cog in the Indian setup.

Jadhav has had a history with injuries. The player was ruled out of the previous year's IPL due to a hamstring tear.

After recovering from the injury, he made his comeback for the Asia Cup 2018, but immediately after that, he once again sustained an injury.

He is one of four all-rounders in India's 15-man squad for the upcoming World Cup.

If the player is not able to make it to the tournament, India might have to consider calling the likes of Rishabh Pant or Ambati Rayudu, who missed out on entering the squad.

India's 15-member team for the upcoming World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

India takes on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup.

The 50-over tournament will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav sustained a shoulder injury during the clash between Chennai and Punjab in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav sustained a shoulder injury during the clash between Chennai and Punjab in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The player has been ruled out for the remainder of the IPL and his participation in the upcoming World Cup hangs in the balance, raising alarm bells in the Indian camp. "Kedar Jadhav's getting an x-ray and a scan tomorrow. I don't think we'll see him again in this tournament for us. He's in some discomfort. Fingers crossed that it is nothing too serious, but it didn't look that good," Chennai coach Stephen Fleming told reporters after the match between Punjab and Chennai on Sunday. Jadhav sustained the injury while attempting to stop an overthrow during Punjab's innings. The player was visibly uncomfortable and he left the field after the 14th over. The player is all set to undergo scans today, and the Indian team would hope nothing serious comes out from the reports as he is considered as a vital cog in the Indian setup. Jadhav has had a history with injuries. The player was ruled out of the previous year's IPL due to a hamstring tear. After recovering from the injury, he made his comeback for the Asia Cup 2018, but immediately after that, he once again sustained an injury. He is one of four all-rounders in India's 15-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. If the player is not able to make it to the tournament, India might have to consider calling the likes of Rishabh Pant or Ambati Rayudu, who missed out on entering the squad. India's 15-member team for the upcoming World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami. India takes on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup. The 50-over tournament will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

Kedar Jadhav's injury raises alarm bells in India camp

We are just 25 days away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but before we enter the tournament, let's take a look back at some of the best bowling and fielding records made in previous World Cups.&nbsp;

Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, who appeared in four World Cups, dominates the individual bowling records.&nbsp;

He holds the record of the best strike rate and economy rate among any other bowler.&nbsp;

He also is the highest wicket-taker in the history of the tournament and has the best individual bowling figures.&nbsp;

Former Australians Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist have the best individual fielding records, along with Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara.&nbsp;

Ponting has taken the highest catches in World Cup history, on the other hand, wicketkeeper Gilchrist has made the most dismissals in a single match and the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper overall is held by Sangakkara.&nbsp;

Here's a list of some significant bowling and fielding records:

Most wickets- 71 
Australia's Glenn McGrath is the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history. With a total of 68 wickets, Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan is at number spot. &nbsp;

Average- 18.19 
McGrath also holds the record of best bowling average. Pakistan's Imran Khan has the second best bowling average. &nbsp;

Economy Rate- 3.24 
West Indies Andy Roberts holds the record for the best economy rate in the World Cup history. Ian Botham of England is at second spot with 3.43.&nbsp;

Strike Rate- 23.8 
Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga has the best strike rate and he has the chance to better it in the upcoming World Cup. Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has the second best strike rate. &nbsp;

Best bowling figures- 7/15 
Australia's McGrath also holds the record of best bowling figure. He created the record against Namibia in World Cup 2003.&nbsp;

Most wickets in consecutive balls- 4 vs South Africa&nbsp; 
Malinga made another record of taking most wickets in consecutive balls. In World Cup 2007, Malinga created a unique record against South Africa.&nbsp;

In the last 2 balls of the 45th over and first 2 balls of the 47th over- Malinga picked up the wickets of Pollock, Hall, Kallis &amp; Ntini making it 4 wickets in 4 consecutive deliveries.&nbsp;

Most dismissals (wicketkeeper)- 54 
Kumar Sangakkara holds the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in World Cup.

Most catches (fielder)- 28 
Ricky Ponting created the records of taking most catches in the World Cup.

We are just 25 days away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but before we enter the tournament, let's take a look back at some of the best bowling and fielding records made in previous World Cups.

We are just 25 days away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but before we enter the tournament, let's take a look back at some of the best bowling and fielding records made in previous World Cups. Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, who appeared in four World Cups, dominates the individual bowling records. He holds the record of the best strike rate and economy rate among any other bowler. He also is the highest wicket-taker in the history of the tournament and has the best individual bowling figures. Former Australians Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist have the best individual fielding records, along with Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara. Ponting has taken the highest catches in World Cup history, on the other hand, wicketkeeper Gilchrist has made the most dismissals in a single match and the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper overall is held by Sangakkara. Here's a list of some significant bowling and fielding records: Most wickets- 71 Australia's Glenn McGrath is the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history. With a total of 68 wickets, Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan is at number spot. Average- 18.19 McGrath also holds the record of best bowling average. Pakistan's Imran Khan has the second best bowling average. Economy Rate- 3.24 West Indies Andy Roberts holds the record for the best economy rate in the World Cup history. Ian Botham of England is at second spot with 3.43. Strike Rate- 23.8 Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga has the best strike rate and he has the chance to better it in the upcoming World Cup. Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has the second best strike rate. Best bowling figures- 7/15 Australia's McGrath also holds the record of best bowling figure. He created the record against Namibia in World Cup 2003. Most wickets in consecutive balls- 4 vs South Africa Malinga made another record of taking most wickets in consecutive balls. In World Cup 2007, Malinga created a unique record against South Africa. In the last 2 balls of the 45th over and first 2 balls of the 47th over- Malinga picked up the wickets of Pollock, Hall, Kallis & Ntini making it 4 wickets in 4 consecutive deliveries. Most dismissals (wicketkeeper)- 54 Kumar Sangakkara holds the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in World Cup. Most catches (fielder)- 28 Ricky Ponting created the records of taking most catches in the World Cup.

Best bowling and fielding figures in World Cup history

Every cricketer dream to put on&nbsp;the national jersey and play for their country in the World Cup but there are also players who&nbsp;have donned jerseys of two different countries and played in the World Cup. Here's a list of players who have played for two nations in the ICC cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

Kepler Wessels- Australia and South Africa

Wessels played the 1983 World Cup for Australia, but due to inconsistent form, he was soon out of the side. He shifted from Australia back to his native country South Africa.&nbsp;

He was named the captain of the 'new' South Africa who were back after being 22 years away from the game due to the apartheid. The RSA team was inexperienced going into the World Cup and he led them to the semifinals.&nbsp;

Anderson Cummins - West Indies and Canada&nbsp;

Former West Indian pacer Anderson Cummins has also played World Cup for two different countries. He was a part of the West Indian team in the 1992 World Cup and after 15 years, he represented Canada in the 2007 World Cup that took place in the West Indies.&nbsp;

Ed Joyce - Ireland and England

Regarded as one of the best cricketers produced by Ireland and former England opener Ed Joyce&nbsp;represented the English side in the 2007 World Cup and four years later, he turned out in the Irish outfit in the 2011 World Cup.&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan - Ireland and England&nbsp;

Morgan was named in Ireland's 15-man squad for the 2007 World Cup.&nbsp;

Although Ireland performed well in the tournament, Morgan struggled personally. He then shifted to the English side.&nbsp;

Morgan was not initially named in England's squad for the 2011 World Cup as he was suffering from a fractured finger but was later called up following an injury to Kevin Pietersen.&nbsp;

In 2015 Morgan was named the captain of the England team going to the World Cup. This was his second World Cup appearance for England and first as a captain.&nbsp;

In the 2019 World Cup, he will again be leading the England side. This will be his fourth overall appearance and third for England.

Every cricketer dream to put on the national jersey and play for their country in the World Cup but there are also players who have donned jerseys of two different countries and played in the World Cup.

Every cricketer dream to put on the national jersey and play for their country in the World Cup but there are also players who have donned jerseys of two different countries and played in the World Cup. Here's a list of players who have played for two nations in the ICC cricket World Cup. Kepler Wessels- Australia and South Africa Wessels played the 1983 World Cup for Australia, but due to inconsistent form, he was soon out of the side. He shifted from Australia back to his native country South Africa. He was named the captain of the 'new' South Africa who were back after being 22 years away from the game due to the apartheid. The RSA team was inexperienced going into the World Cup and he led them to the semifinals. Anderson Cummins - West Indies and Canada Former West Indian pacer Anderson Cummins has also played World Cup for two different countries. He was a part of the West Indian team in the 1992 World Cup and after 15 years, he represented Canada in the 2007 World Cup that took place in the West Indies. Ed Joyce - Ireland and England Regarded as one of the best cricketers produced by Ireland and former England opener Ed Joyce represented the English side in the 2007 World Cup and four years later, he turned out in the Irish outfit in the 2011 World Cup. Eoin Morgan - Ireland and England Morgan was named in Ireland's 15-man squad for the 2007 World Cup. Although Ireland performed well in the tournament, Morgan struggled personally. He then shifted to the English side. Morgan was not initially named in England's squad for the 2011 World Cup as he was suffering from a fractured finger but was later called up following an injury to Kevin Pietersen. In 2015 Morgan was named the captain of the England team going to the World Cup. This was his second World Cup appearance for England and first as a captain. In the 2019 World Cup, he will again be leading the England side. This will be his fourth overall appearance and third for England.

Players who have played for two nations in ICC cricket World Cup

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc said that the team has moved on from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ball+tampering">ball-tampering scandal</a> that rocked the cricket fraternity and now focused on the upcoming cricket World Cup which will kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

Former Australian captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were found guilty of altering the condition of the ball in 2018 playing against South Africa.&nbsp;

Smith and Warner, who served a year-long ban, now have joined their teammates as they gathered for a pre-World Cup training camp.&nbsp;

"It is onwards, upwards and focused on the World Cup. It is all rosy," ICC quoted Starc, as saying.&nbsp;

The duo had missed Australia's recent away series against Pakistan in UAE but both the cricketers were welcomed into the Australia dressing room to know how things have changed under Aaron Finch's leadership and coach Justin Langer.&nbsp;

"We have all had our meetings and moved on. The meeting I was involved in with ... 95 per cent was not about Dave and Steve and the group. It was more about where the team was going," Starc said.&nbsp;

Both Smith and Warner will go into the 50-over tournament in England with their brilliant performance in the Indian Premier League 2019.&nbsp;

"He (Warner) has been on fire over there, along with Steve, so that is great for him and great for the group. He is a world-class player and we are excited to have him back," Starc said.&nbsp;

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc said that the team has moved on from a ball-tampering scandal that rocked the cricket fraternity and now focused on the upcoming cricket World Cup which will kick off from May 30.

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc said that the team has moved on from a ball-tampering scandal that rocked the cricket fraternity and now focused on the upcoming cricket World Cup which will kick off from May 30. Former Australian captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were found guilty of altering the condition of the ball in 2018 playing against South Africa. Smith and Warner, who served a year-long ban, now have joined their teammates as they gathered for a pre-World Cup training camp. "It is onwards, upwards and focused on the World Cup. It is all rosy," ICC quoted Starc, as saying. The duo had missed Australia's recent away series against Pakistan in UAE but both the cricketers were welcomed into the Australia dressing room to know how things have changed under Aaron Finch's leadership and coach Justin Langer. "We have all had our meetings and moved on. The meeting I was involved in with ... 95 per cent was not about Dave and Steve and the group. It was more about where the team was going," Starc said. Both Smith and Warner will go into the 50-over tournament in England with their brilliant performance in the Indian Premier League 2019. "He (Warner) has been on fire over there, along with Steve, so that is great for him and great for the group. He is a world-class player and we are excited to have him back," Starc said.

Team moved on from ball-tampering incident, says Mitchell Starc

With days away from the twelfth cricket World Cup, here's a look back at&nbsp;some of the significant achievements from the previous editions.&nbsp;

-Australian cricket team have a record of an unbeaten streak of 34 matches in four&nbsp;World Cup campaigns which started in 1999. The streak ended in 2011 when they lost to Pakistan in a group match. In their unbeaten streak, the team had won 32 matches with one&nbsp;tie and one&nbsp;ended with no result.&nbsp;

-Australian cricketers, Ricky Ponting, Glenn McGrath and Adam Gilchrist share the record of three World Cup titles as they were members of Australia's winning teams of 1999, 2003 and 2007.&nbsp;

-Sachin Tendulkar has played in six World Cups, from 1992 to 2011. He shares the record with Pakistan's Javed Miandad, who was the first player to have played in six World Cups, from 1975 to 1996.&nbsp;

-Sachin has also created the&nbsp;record of most runs scored in World Cup. He amassed 2278 runs at a staggering average of 56.95 which includes six centuries and 15 half-centuries.&nbsp;

-Martin Guptill, who is the closest to Sachin's record with most runs (809) in the current players' list, &nbsp;holds the record of highest individual score of unbeaten 237 in 2015 World Cup.&nbsp;

-Kapil Dev, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain is the youngest skipper ever to win a World Cup. He was 24-year-old when he lifted the trophy.&nbsp;

-Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath holds the record of most number of wickets i.e., 71.&nbsp;

-Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara holds the record of most consecutive centuries in World Cup. He&nbsp;scored four centuries in four consecutive matches against Bangladesh, England, Australia and Scotland in 2015.&nbsp;

-India is the only team to win the World Cup in two different formats. In 1983, the team won in a 60-over format and in 2011, MS Dhoni-led team won in a 50-over format.&nbsp;

-Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has scored at least one century in all the World Cups he played in.&nbsp;

-Ireland's Kevin O'Brien holds the record of the quickest century in the World Cup history. In 2011 edition, the Irish smashed a 50-ball hundred against England.&nbsp;

With days away from the twelfth cricket World Cup, here's a look back at some of the significant achievements from the previous editions. -Australian cricket team have a record of an unbeaten streak of 34 matches in four World Cup campaigns which started in 1999.

With days away from the twelfth cricket World Cup, here's a look back at some of the significant achievements from the previous editions. -Australian cricket team have a record of an unbeaten streak of 34 matches in four World Cup campaigns which started in 1999. The streak ended in 2011 when they lost to Pakistan in a group match. In their unbeaten streak, the team had won 32 matches with one tie and one ended with no result. -Australian cricketers, Ricky Ponting, Glenn McGrath and Adam Gilchrist share the record of three World Cup titles as they were members of Australia's winning teams of 1999, 2003 and 2007. -Sachin Tendulkar has played in six World Cups, from 1992 to 2011. He shares the record with Pakistan's Javed Miandad, who was the first player to have played in six World Cups, from 1975 to 1996. -Sachin has also created the record of most runs scored in World Cup. He amassed 2278 runs at a staggering average of 56.95 which includes six centuries and 15 half-centuries. -Martin Guptill, who is the closest to Sachin's record with most runs (809) in the current players' list, holds the record of highest individual score of unbeaten 237 in 2015 World Cup. -Kapil Dev, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain is the youngest skipper ever to win a World Cup. He was 24-year-old when he lifted the trophy. -Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath holds the record of most number of wickets i.e., 71. -Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara holds the record of most consecutive centuries in World Cup. He scored four centuries in four consecutive matches against Bangladesh, England, Australia and Scotland in 2015. -India is the only team to win the World Cup in two different formats. In 1983, the team won in a 60-over format and in 2011, MS Dhoni-led team won in a 50-over format. -Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has scored at least one century in all the World Cups he played in. -Ireland's Kevin O'Brien holds the record of the quickest century in the World Cup history. In 2011 edition, the Irish smashed a 50-ball hundred against England.

Some significant records made in previous editions of ICC World Cup

Australia captain Aaron Finch believes David Warner will enter this year's World Cup desperate to prove himself as the disgraced batsman prepares to rejoin his teammates after a ball-tampering ban.

Warner has been in red-hot form in the India Premier League after completing a 12-month suspension for cheating, averaging 69.20 in 12 innings, including a century and eight fifties.

Finch expected the fiery batsman to also dominate on the international stage, providing a massive boost for Australia as the reigning champions chase a sixth World Cup trophy.

"He's coming back with a huge hunger, not just to perform well for his franchise, but to dominate international cricket again," Finch told Melbourne commercial radio Wednesday. &nbsp;

"When you have your dream taken away from you for 12 months, I can imagine there's something inside you that burns really strongly."

Finch said the ban, imposed after Warner masterminded the "Sandpaper-gate" scandal in Cape Town last year, had given the 32-year-old a chance to refresh his game.

"He's a super player, we know how destructive he can be," he said.

"I think having time off to spend with his family and get away from the game (was important)."

Warner and former Australian captain Steve Smith, who was also banned over the cheating scandal, will officially rejoin the Australian squad for the first time at a training camp in Brisbane on Friday.

Finch did not expect any problems re-integrating them into the team, even though the former captain and deputy will have to defer to a new leadership team.

He said he would consult the pair about on-field tactics.

"I'll be using them as much as I can tactically because they've both captained a lot of cricket and are very good captains on the field," he said.&nbsp;

"It would be really naive of me not to lean on them."

Finch also revealed he feared for his own spot on the team after a recent barren run, although he believed he had now returned to form.

"In the back of your mind you're thinking, 'Gee, the World Cup isn't far away, as a captain I could be left out of the squad'," he said.

"Then you start putting unrealistic pressure on yourself to perform."

Finch had an unsuccessful spell in the Test side last year, averaging 27.80 in five matches, and conceded that at 32 his career in the long-form game was over.

"My chances to play Test cricket again have probably slipped away," he said.

"I'm still very grateful for the opportunity... I'm OK with that because I gave it everything I could."

Australia captain Aaron Finch believes David Warner will enter this year's World Cup desperate to prove himself as the disgraced batsman prepares to rejoin his teammates after a ball-tampering ban.

Australia captain Aaron Finch believes David Warner will enter this year's World Cup desperate to prove himself as the disgraced batsman prepares to rejoin his teammates after a ball-tampering ban. Warner has been in red-hot form in the India Premier League after completing a 12-month suspension for cheating, averaging 69.20 in 12 innings, including a century and eight fifties. Finch expected the fiery batsman to also dominate on the international stage, providing a massive boost for Australia as the reigning champions chase a sixth World Cup trophy. "He's coming back with a huge hunger, not just to perform well for his franchise, but to dominate international cricket again," Finch told Melbourne commercial radio Wednesday. "When you have your dream taken away from you for 12 months, I can imagine there's something inside you that burns really strongly." Finch said the ban, imposed after Warner masterminded the "Sandpaper-gate" scandal in Cape Town last year, had given the 32-year-old a chance to refresh his game. "He's a super player, we know how destructive he can be," he said. "I think having time off to spend with his family and get away from the game (was important)." Warner and former Australian captain Steve Smith, who was also banned over the cheating scandal, will officially rejoin the Australian squad for the first time at a training camp in Brisbane on Friday. Finch did not expect any problems re-integrating them into the team, even though the former captain and deputy will have to defer to a new leadership team. He said he would consult the pair about on-field tactics. "I'll be using them as much as I can tactically because they've both captained a lot of cricket and are very good captains on the field," he said. "It would be really naive of me not to lean on them." Finch also revealed he feared for his own spot on the team after a recent barren run, although he believed he had now returned to form. "In the back of your mind you're thinking, 'Gee, the World Cup isn't far away, as a captain I could be left out of the squad'," he said. "Then you start putting unrealistic pressure on yourself to perform." Finch had an unsuccessful spell in the Test side last year, averaging 27.80 in five matches, and conceded that at 32 his career in the long-form game was over. "My chances to play Test cricket again have probably slipped away," he said. "I'm still very grateful for the opportunity... I'm OK with that because I gave it everything I could."

David Warner is coming back with a huge hunger, says Aaron Finch

ICC World Cup is a dream of every aspiring cricketer but very few get the chance to chance to play in the tournament and represent their country.

Here's a list of prominent players who will play their first World Cup and will look to leave an impact in the mega event.&nbsp;

Jhye Richardson 
Australian pacer Jhye Richardson made his ODI debut in 2018 against England and has gained recognition ever since with his skilful bowling. &nbsp;

Jhye has the ability to swing the ball both ways throwing at speeds up to 140 kph. He will even get additional support from the English pitch.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old has played just 12 ODIs so far and took 24 wickets. It is expected that he will partner Mitchell Starc with the new ball in the tournament.&nbsp;

Shimron Hetmyer 
Windies batsman Shimron Hetmyer has been added in the team's 15-member squad and he will be a vital cog in the middle batting order.&nbsp;

Hetmyer made his debut in 2017 against New Zealand and is close to 900 runs in 25 ODIs, at an average of 40.86, including four centuries.&nbsp;

He was also one of West Indies' most consistent performers in the Qualifiers last year.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah 
India's Jasprit Bumrah made his international debut in 2016 and became an integral part of the Indian cricket team. He is currently placed at number one on the ICC Men's ODI Bowling Rankings.&nbsp;

In 2018, Bumrah picked up 22 wickets in 13 ODIs, at an average of 16.63 and an economy of just 3.62.&nbsp;

The death bowler specialist is just 15 scalps away from 100 ODI wickets.&nbsp;

Babar Azam 
Pakistan's Babar Azam will bolster his side's batting order in the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

Azam made his ODI debut in 2015, has scored close to 2500 runs in 59 matches playing at an impressive average of 51.29.&nbsp;

He is currently placed at number seven in the ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings.&nbsp;

He is the only player to have scored his first three ODI centuries in successive innings.&nbsp;

Rashid Khan 
Afghanistan spin sensation Rashid Khan is an important element of the team with his wicket taking abilities.&nbsp;

Rashid made his debut in 2015 and earned recognition with his outstanding spin talent.&nbsp;

In 57 ODIs, Rashid has 123 scalps at an average of just 15.&nbsp;

Yuzvendra Chahal 
India's&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal will be the part of the spin attack in India's Playing XI in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Chahal has played 41 matches and took 72 wickets in ODI format so far, with an economy rate of 4.89.&nbsp;

Chahal is at number eight in ICC's ODI bowling ranking in ODI format.&nbsp;

Mustafizur Rahman 
Bangladesh's fast bowler will strengthen his side's bowling attack, because of his wicket-taking skills, he will pose threats to the opposition in the death overs.&nbsp;

Mustafizur made his One-day debut against Indian in 2015.&nbsp;

So far he has taken, 77 wickets in 43 matches with an economy of 4.71 his quality bowling in the death overs makes him an important player for his team.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya 
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya as also been included in the World Cup squad.&nbsp;

Pandya is at number 60 with 470 points in ICC bowling ranking.&nbsp;

He has also scored 731 runs in 45 ODI matches he played so far.

Nathan Lyon 
Australian Nathan Lyon has been included in Australia's 15-member squad and he is currently one of the best spinners in the international arena.&nbsp;

He has been magnificent in the Test format and will look to leave an impact in the World Cup.&nbsp;

In ODIs, he has played 25 matches and took 26 wickets.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav 
India's spin king Kuldeep has taken 87 wickets in 44 ODI matches he played so far.&nbsp;

In ICC's bowling ranking, Kuldeep is at number seven.&nbsp;

The mystery spinner has showcased his skills of taking wickets at the various occasion for Team India.&nbsp;

ICC World Cup is a dream of every aspiring cricketer but very few get the chance to chance to play in the tournament and represent their country. Here's a list of prominent players who will play their first World Cup and will look to leave an impact in the mega event.

ICC World Cup is a dream of every aspiring cricketer but very few get the chance to chance to play in the tournament and represent their country. Here's a list of prominent players who will play their first World Cup and will look to leave an impact in the mega event. Jhye Richardson Australian pacer Jhye Richardson made his ODI debut in 2018 against England and has gained recognition ever since with his skilful bowling. Jhye has the ability to swing the ball both ways throwing at speeds up to 140 kph. He will even get additional support from the English pitch. The 22-year-old has played just 12 ODIs so far and took 24 wickets. It is expected that he will partner Mitchell Starc with the new ball in the tournament. Shimron Hetmyer Windies batsman Shimron Hetmyer has been added in the team's 15-member squad and he will be a vital cog in the middle batting order. Hetmyer made his debut in 2017 against New Zealand and is close to 900 runs in 25 ODIs, at an average of 40.86, including four centuries. He was also one of West Indies' most consistent performers in the Qualifiers last year. Jasprit Bumrah India's Jasprit Bumrah made his international debut in 2016 and became an integral part of the Indian cricket team. He is currently placed at number one on the ICC Men's ODI Bowling Rankings. In 2018, Bumrah picked up 22 wickets in 13 ODIs, at an average of 16.63 and an economy of just 3.62. The death bowler specialist is just 15 scalps away from 100 ODI wickets. Babar Azam Pakistan's Babar Azam will bolster his side's batting order in the upcoming World Cup. Azam made his ODI debut in 2015, has scored close to 2500 runs in 59 matches playing at an impressive average of 51.29. He is currently placed at number seven in the ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings. He is the only player to have scored his first three ODI centuries in successive innings. Rashid Khan Afghanistan spin sensation Rashid Khan is an important element of the team with his wicket taking abilities. Rashid made his debut in 2015 and earned recognition with his outstanding spin talent. In 57 ODIs, Rashid has 123 scalps at an average of just 15. Yuzvendra Chahal India's Yuzvendra Chahal will be the part of the spin attack in India's Playing XI in England and Wales. Chahal has played 41 matches and took 72 wickets in ODI format so far, with an economy rate of 4.89. Chahal is at number eight in ICC's ODI bowling ranking in ODI format. Mustafizur Rahman Bangladesh's fast bowler will strengthen his side's bowling attack, because of his wicket-taking skills, he will pose threats to the opposition in the death overs. Mustafizur made his One-day debut against Indian in 2015. So far he has taken, 77 wickets in 43 matches with an economy of 4.71 his quality bowling in the death overs makes him an important player for his team. Hardik Pandya Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya as also been included in the World Cup squad. Pandya is at number 60 with 470 points in ICC bowling ranking. He has also scored 731 runs in 45 ODI matches he played so far. Nathan Lyon Australian Nathan Lyon has been included in Australia's 15-member squad and he is currently one of the best spinners in the international arena. He has been magnificent in the Test format and will look to leave an impact in the World Cup. In ODIs, he has played 25 matches and took 26 wickets. Kuldeep Yadav India's spin king Kuldeep has taken 87 wickets in 44 ODI matches he played so far. In ICC's bowling ranking, Kuldeep is at number seven. The mystery spinner has showcased his skills of taking wickets at the various occasion for Team India.

Debutants to watch out for in ICC World Cup 2019

England player <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/alex-hales-withdrawn-from-englands-world-cup-squad-214471&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjo1NSIyfzhAhUp6XMBHX7dDQIQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3jgBWzekqqi10Jm4M1eTG3">Alex Hales</a> is set to return for Nottinghamshire, when the team will compete against Durham on May 3.

After the reports which stated that Hales failed a recreational drug test for the second time, he was withdrawn from England`s World Cup squad, the one-off one-day international (ODI) against Ireland and the limited-overs series against Pakistan.

Moreover, the 30-year-old was banned for 21 days.

Hales will now be seen in action as the Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club confirmed the that he will be available for selection for all white-ball cricket for the remainder of the 2019 season.

"The meeting was open, honest and constructive and a way forward was agreed between both parties. Alex has expressed a great deal of regret and contrition for his actions and he has ultimately paid a heavy price," Nottinghamshire said in a statement.

"He accepts that the position he finds himself in is of his own making. He knows he has a long road back to redeem himself in the eyes of many people, but that now has to be his aim," it added.

Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores said it is a very disappointing thing for a player to miss the World Cup but he expressed that Hales should react in the right way.

"I'd like him to be involved. Anyone who misses out on a World Cup is going to be very disappointed. But it`s how he reacts to it - I expect Alex to react in the right way," ICC quoted Moores as saying.&nbsp;

England player Alex Hales is set to return for Nottinghamshire, when the team will compete against Durham on May 3. After the reports which stated that Hales failed a recreational drug test for the second time, he was withdrawn from England`s World Cup squad, the one-off one-day international (ODI) against Ireland and the limited-overs series against Pakistan.

England player Alex Hales is set to return for Nottinghamshire, when the team will compete against Durham on May 3. After the reports which stated that Hales failed a recreational drug test for the second time, he was withdrawn from England`s World Cup squad, the one-off one-day international (ODI) against Ireland and the limited-overs series against Pakistan. Moreover, the 30-year-old was banned for 21 days. Hales will now be seen in action as the Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club confirmed the that he will be available for selection for all white-ball cricket for the remainder of the 2019 season. "The meeting was open, honest and constructive and a way forward was agreed between both parties. Alex has expressed a great deal of regret and contrition for his actions and he has ultimately paid a heavy price," Nottinghamshire said in a statement. "He accepts that the position he finds himself in is of his own making. He knows he has a long road back to redeem himself in the eyes of many people, but that now has to be his aim," it added. Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores said it is a very disappointing thing for a player to miss the World Cup but he expressed that Hales should react in the right way. "I'd like him to be involved. Anyone who misses out on a World Cup is going to be very disappointed. But it`s how he reacts to it - I expect Alex to react in the right way," ICC quoted Moores as saying.

Alex Hales to return for Nottinghamshire against Durham on May 3

Ten teams, 150 players and one dream...&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of World Cup will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14 and the winner will be awarded the coveted ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy.&nbsp;

The feeling of lifting the illustrious trophy up in the air is difficult to express in words. From Clive Lloyd to Steve Waugh, captains who have done it would know the sentiment.&nbsp;

Every team starts their journey yearning to possess the Cup but in the end, there remains just one, whose journey stand out among others.&nbsp;

While talking about the journey of players and teams, then the journey of the trophy is worth mentioning. Since the first World Cup, which was held in 1975, the design and significance of the trophies have changed.&nbsp;

The current cricket World Cup trophy is made from silver and gold and with a golden globe on the top held up by three silver columns.&nbsp;

The globe represents a cricket ball and the columns, which are shaped as stumps and bails, represent the three fundamental aspects of cricket: batting, bowling and fielding.&nbsp;

The current trophy stands 60 cm high and weighs approximately 11 kilograms. On the base, the names of the previous winners are engraved, with space for a total of twenty inscriptions.&nbsp;

The original trophy is kept by the ICC in its offices in Dubai but a replica is awarded to the winning team.&nbsp;

Prior to the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, different trophies were made for each World Cup. Here's a list of all the designs.&nbsp;

Prudential Cup Trophy 
For the first three World Cups, i.e., from 1975–1983, the Prudential Cups trophy was awarded. West Indies won it in 1975 and 1979 and Kapil Dev-led India clinched it in 1983.&nbsp;

Reliance World Cup Trophy 
In the World Cup 1999, the trophy design changed with the sponsors. Allan Border-led Australian team won it.&nbsp;

Benson and Hedges Cup Trophy 
The 1992 World Cup saw a different trophy. Its name was Benson and Hedges Cup, sponsored by Benson and Hedges. Pakistan was the winner of that tournament.&nbsp;

Wills World Cup Trophy 
In 1996 the winner Sri Lanka lifted a different trophy, whose name was Wills World Cup, sponsored by Wills, an ITC brand.&nbsp;

ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy 
In 1999, the International Cricket Council decided to award its own trophy and the trophy remained same ever since.&nbsp;

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So far, Australia have won three times, the ICC World Cup Trophy and India once in 2011.&nbsp;

Ten teams, 150 players and one dream... The twelfth edition of World Cup will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14 and the winner will be awarded the coveted ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy.

Ten teams, 150 players and one dream... The twelfth edition of World Cup will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14 and the winner will be awarded the coveted ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy. The feeling of lifting the illustrious trophy up in the air is difficult to express in words. From Clive Lloyd to Steve Waugh, captains who have done it would know the sentiment. Every team starts their journey yearning to possess the Cup but in the end, there remains just one, whose journey stand out among others. While talking about the journey of players and teams, then the journey of the trophy is worth mentioning. Since the first World Cup, which was held in 1975, the design and significance of the trophies have changed. The current cricket World Cup trophy is made from silver and gold and with a golden globe on the top held up by three silver columns. The globe represents a cricket ball and the columns, which are shaped as stumps and bails, represent the three fundamental aspects of cricket: batting, bowling and fielding. The current trophy stands 60 cm high and weighs approximately 11 kilograms. On the base, the names of the previous winners are engraved, with space for a total of twenty inscriptions. The original trophy is kept by the ICC in its offices in Dubai but a replica is awarded to the winning team. Prior to the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, different trophies were made for each World Cup. Here's a list of all the designs. Prudential Cup Trophy For the first three World Cups, i.e., from 1975–1983, the Prudential Cups trophy was awarded. West Indies won it in 1975 and 1979 and Kapil Dev-led India clinched it in 1983. Reliance World Cup Trophy In the World Cup 1999, the trophy design changed with the sponsors. Allan Border-led Australian team won it. Benson and Hedges Cup Trophy The 1992 World Cup saw a different trophy. Its name was Benson and Hedges Cup, sponsored by Benson and Hedges. Pakistan was the winner of that tournament. Wills World Cup Trophy In 1996 the winner Sri Lanka lifted a different trophy, whose name was Wills World Cup, sponsored by Wills, an ITC brand. ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy In 1999, the International Cricket Council decided to award its own trophy and the trophy remained same ever since. × So far, Australia have won three times, the ICC World Cup Trophy and India once in 2011.

Prudential World Cup to Benson and Hedges: An epic journey of the famous cricket trophy

The countdown has begun...

With just 30 days away from the cricket's mega event, ICC World Cup 2019, the buzz can be easily sensed as the players are sweating it out for the main event. The cricket fanatics are ready for their daily dose of entertainment and the tournament will definitely serve them well with enough topics for their 9 pm dinner table discussions.&nbsp;

The upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is the 12th cricket World Cup.&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;

On tough and challenging English pitches which tend to swing more than usual, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament.&nbsp;

A total of 10 countries will participate, having one dream in common, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world.&nbsp;

England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries.&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.&nbsp;

In the group stage, a total of 45 matches will be played and each team will play a total of nine matches.&nbsp;

This World Cup is also the first to be contested without all of the Test playing nations as Ireland and Zimbabwe did not qualify.&nbsp;

The opening match, which is between the hosts England and South Africa will be played at The Oval and the final will be played at the "Home of Cricket" Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

Before the main tournament, ten non-One Day International warm-up matches will be played from May 24 to May 28.&nbsp;

The countdown has begun... With just 30 days away from the cricket's mega event, ICC World Cup 2019, the buzz can be easily sensed as the players are sweating it out for the main event.

The countdown has begun... With just 30 days away from the cricket's mega event, ICC World Cup 2019, the buzz can be easily sensed as the players are sweating it out for the main event. The cricket fanatics are ready for their daily dose of entertainment and the tournament will definitely serve them well with enough topics for their 9 pm dinner table discussions. The upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is the 12th cricket World Cup. This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999. On tough and challenging English pitches which tend to swing more than usual, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament. A total of 10 countries will participate, having one dream in common, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world. England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries. 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. In the group stage, a total of 45 matches will be played and each team will play a total of nine matches. This World Cup is also the first to be contested without all of the Test playing nations as Ireland and Zimbabwe did not qualify. The opening match, which is between the hosts England and South Africa will be played at The Oval and the final will be played at the "Home of Cricket" Lord's Cricket Ground. Before the main tournament, ten non-One Day International warm-up matches will be played from May 24 to May 28.

All you need to know about ICC World Cup 2019

Batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-batsman-alex-hales-takes-break-for-personal-reasons-211972">Alex Hales</a> has been withdrawn from England's preliminary World Cup squad to avoid any "unnecessary distractions" ahead of the showpiece tournament, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Monday.

Hales, who was named in England's preliminary World Cup squad, is serving a three-week ban for recreational drug use, the Guardian newspaper reported on Friday.

"We've worked hard to create the right environment around the England team and need to consider what is in the best interests of the team..." Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, Ashley Giles, said in a statement.

"I want to make it clear this is not the end of Alex's career as an England player. The ECB and the PCA will continue to aid Alex and work alongside his county club Nottinghamshire to give him the support he needs, to help him fulfil his potential as a professional cricketer."

The Nottinghamshire batsman will not travel to Ireland for a one-off ODI on Friday and has also been removed from England’s ODI and Twenty20 squads against Pakistan.

Hales was fined and suspended for his involvement in a nightclub altercation with team mate Ben Stokes in 2017.

The 30-year-old was given a six-match one-day international ban in December. He had already missed two games and the remainder of the ban was suspended for 12 months so he could be available for selection.

The 50-over World Cup begins on May 30 with England taking on South Africa in the opening match in London.

Batsman Alex Hales has been withdrawn from England's preliminary World Cup squad to avoid any "unnecessary distractions" ahead of the showpiece tournament, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Monday.

Batsman Alex Hales has been withdrawn from England's preliminary World Cup squad to avoid any "unnecessary distractions" ahead of the showpiece tournament, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Monday. Hales, who was named in England's preliminary World Cup squad, is serving a three-week ban for recreational drug use, the Guardian newspaper reported on Friday. "We've worked hard to create the right environment around the England team and need to consider what is in the best interests of the team..." Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, Ashley Giles, said in a statement. "I want to make it clear this is not the end of Alex's career as an England player. The ECB and the PCA will continue to aid Alex and work alongside his county club Nottinghamshire to give him the support he needs, to help him fulfil his potential as a professional cricketer." The Nottinghamshire batsman will not travel to Ireland for a one-off ODI on Friday and has also been removed from England’s ODI and Twenty20 squads against Pakistan. Hales was fined and suspended for his involvement in a nightclub altercation with team mate Ben Stokes in 2017. The 30-year-old was given a six-match one-day international ban in December. He had already missed two games and the remainder of the ban was suspended for 12 months so he could be available for selection. The 50-over World Cup begins on May 30 with England taking on South Africa in the opening match in London.

Alex Hales withdrawn from England's World Cup squad

The BCCI acting President CK Khanna on Saturday met India captain Virat Kohli and wished him luck for the upcoming <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS_fn4ovDhAhXBOI8KHfRMBqIQFjAIegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1-WOfAxVtZtu8U9p0gG0ja">World Cup</a>.

Khanna, who was forced to skip the day's CoA meeting due to personal issues, met Kohli at the Bangalore team hotel.

"I wished him all the luck and I am pretty confident that we will win the World Cup under Virat's leadership," Khanna said after meeting Kohli.

He sidestepped on the issue of team selection debate though.

"The selectors have picked the best 15 and it's our job to back the team," said Khanna, who didn't wish to comment on Delhi man Rishabh Pant's omission.

The BCCI acting President CK Khanna on Saturday met India captain Virat Kohli and wished him luck for the upcoming World Cup. Khanna, who was forced to skip the day's CoA meeting due to personal issues, met Kohli at the Bangalore team hotel.

The BCCI acting President CK Khanna on Saturday met India captain Virat Kohli and wished him luck for the upcoming World Cup. Khanna, who was forced to skip the day's CoA meeting due to personal issues, met Kohli at the Bangalore team hotel. "I wished him all the luck and I am pretty confident that we will win the World Cup under Virat's leadership," Khanna said after meeting Kohli. He sidestepped on the issue of team selection debate though. "The selectors have picked the best 15 and it's our job to back the team," said Khanna, who didn't wish to comment on Delhi man Rishabh Pant's omission.

BCCI acting president CK Khanna meets Virat Kohli, wishes him luck for the World Cup

South Africa are loaded with match-winners and, with a little bit of luck, can end their World Cup agony at this year's 50-over tournament in England, fast bowler Dale Steyn has said.

South Africa's World Cup adventures have ended prematurely in unfortunate circumstances on numerous occasions earning them the 'chokers' tag at the 50-over event.

Ranked fourth in ODIs, Faf du Plessis' side, however, have not lost a 50-over series in the last 12 months, winning home and away against Sri Lanka, in Australia, and at home to Pakistan and Zimbabwe.

All of it convinces Steyn that the team could break their World Cup duck this time.

"We're going with good expectations," Steyn told reporters ahead of the Royal Challengers Bangalore's IPL match in Kolkata.

"If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players."

South Africa in the past fell foul of an unfair rain rule, paid for miscalculating the Duckworth–Lewis run-rate requirement, and suffered comical run outs to crash out of the competition.

Four years ago, they fell short in a thrilling semi-final when New Zealand's Grant Elliott hit Steyn for a six off the penultimate ball of the match to seal victory.

Steyn, who has taken 196 wickets in 125 ODIs, showered rich praise on fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and pinned hopes on the 23-year-old to lead South Africa's bowling attack in the future.

"We're led by Faf, who's been in fantastic form lately. And in the Indian Premier League, Imran Tahir has been right up there in terms of wickets," said Steyn, who is hoping to make South Africa's 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 tournament.

"From Quinton de Kock all the way down to number 11, they're all match-winners. We just need to go there and hope a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament.

"You look at KG (Rabada), he's been bowling exceptionally well. Kagiso is a wunderkind. Just hope he continues that kind of form."

South Africa open their World Cup against England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa are loaded with match-winners and, with a little bit of luck, can end their World Cup agony at this year's 50-over tournament in England, fast bowler Dale Steyn has said.

South Africa are loaded with match-winners and, with a little bit of luck, can end their World Cup agony at this year's 50-over tournament in England, fast bowler Dale Steyn has said. South Africa's World Cup adventures have ended prematurely in unfortunate circumstances on numerous occasions earning them the 'chokers' tag at the 50-over event. Ranked fourth in ODIs, Faf du Plessis' side, however, have not lost a 50-over series in the last 12 months, winning home and away against Sri Lanka, in Australia, and at home to Pakistan and Zimbabwe. All of it convinces Steyn that the team could break their World Cup duck this time. "We're going with good expectations," Steyn told reporters ahead of the Royal Challengers Bangalore's IPL match in Kolkata. "If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players." South Africa in the past fell foul of an unfair rain rule, paid for miscalculating the Duckworth–Lewis run-rate requirement, and suffered comical run outs to crash out of the competition. Four years ago, they fell short in a thrilling semi-final when New Zealand's Grant Elliott hit Steyn for a six off the penultimate ball of the match to seal victory. Steyn, who has taken 196 wickets in 125 ODIs, showered rich praise on fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and pinned hopes on the 23-year-old to lead South Africa's bowling attack in the future. "We're led by Faf, who's been in fantastic form lately. And in the Indian Premier League, Imran Tahir has been right up there in terms of wickets," said Steyn, who is hoping to make South Africa's 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 tournament. "From Quinton de Kock all the way down to number 11, they're all match-winners. We just need to go there and hope a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament. "You look at KG (Rabada), he's been bowling exceptionally well. Kagiso is a wunderkind. Just hope he continues that kind of form." South Africa open their World Cup against England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa can end World Cup agony: Dale Steyn

The debate will centre around the second wicketkeeper, number four slot and the need for an additional pacer when the selectors meet to pick one of India's most predictable World Cup squads ever in Mumbai on Monday.&nbsp;

At the end of the home series against Australia, skipper Virat Kohli had indicated that only one slot was up for grabs, as the core had been set for the past one year.&nbsp;

With 14 members all but decided for the marquee event in England starting May 30, the discussion on the combination is likely to take precedence over any out-of-the-box name or a left-field selection.&nbsp;

Young Rishabh Pant's competition for the second keeper's slot with veteran Dinesh Karthik will be the highlight of the discussion.&nbsp;

Pant, who has so far scored 222 runs in the IPL compared to a mere 93 by Karthik, looks favourite on paper as his inclusion comes with certain advantages.&nbsp;

He can bat at any slot between Nos 1 and 7, is a left-hander, who can be a designated finisher plus the second keeper.&nbsp;

Pant's keeping skills against spinners has room for improvement but even Karthik hasn't done anything in the last 12 months to make a strong case for himself.&nbsp;

Their franchise coaches Ricky Ponting (Delhi Capitals) and Jacques Kallis (Kolkata Knight Riders), though, have thrown their weight behind their respective stars.&nbsp;

However, with KL Rahul (335 runs in the ongoing IPL) back in the mix as the third opener and regularly keeping for Kings XI Punjab, the selectors might be tempted to use him as the second keeper, apart from third opener.&nbsp;

"The second keeper only comes into play if MS Dhoni is injured. Rishabh is a phenomenal talent but he has not done anything exceptional in ODIs. Can he hit consistently in 50 overs is the question. But he is in mix," a former India player, privy to selection patterns, told PTI.&nbsp;

In case Rahul is made the second keeper, it might just open the doors for Ambati Rayudu as the specialist No. 4 batsman.&nbsp;

Rayudu was a certainty till November when Kohli and Ravi Shastri had identified him as their No 4 but the Hyderabad batsman's adventurous decision to quit long form domestic cricket and poor technique against fast bowling has left him thoroughly exposed.&nbsp;

With Shreyas Iyer (221) not given any chance during the season, Rayudu might get lucky if the idea of a specialist second keeper is done away with.&nbsp;

In case the team management considers all-rounder Vijay Shankar as their No. 4 at the start of the tournament, then it would be curtains for Rayudu.&nbsp;

The final bone of contention could be the fourth specialist seamer considering that the English weather could be very fickle, especially in places like Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester.&nbsp;

"As of now the team is looking at Vijay Shankar and Hardik Pandya as the combined fourth seamer. Ravindra Jadeja with his all round skills and big hitting prowess is a necessity. Plus in dry conditions, he will be a restrictive option," the source said.&nbsp;

But what could pose a problem is India's fourth specialist pacer Umesh Yadav's inconsistency.&nbsp;

Khaleel Ahmed is a left-arm option but he has not shown enough maturity in tesg times.&nbsp;

Ishant Sharma, for his past record in England, a tearaway quick like Navdeep Saini or may be even a good Powerplay bowler like Deepak Chahar could all be inspirational choices which this selection committee may or may not indulge in.&nbsp;

"This selection committee has been pretty consistent with their policies and I don't think they have any reasons to deviate. Don't expect left field selections like Amay Khurasiya (1999) or Dinesh Mongia (2003). But you never know," he added.&nbsp;

Potential squad: 
Certainties: (14) 
Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mahendra Singh Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Vijay Shankar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja 
15th member (options) 
If 2nd keeper: Dinesh Karthik/Rishabh Pant 
If specialist No 4: Ambati Rayudu 
If 4th pacer: Umesh Yadav/Khaleel Ahmed/Ishant Sharma/Navdeep Saini.

The debate will centre around the second wicketkeeper, number four slot and the need for an additional pacer when the selectors meet to pick one of India's most predictable World Cup squads ever in Mumbai on Monday.

The debate will centre around the second wicketkeeper, number four slot and the need for an additional pacer when the selectors meet to pick one of India's most predictable World Cup squads ever in Mumbai on Monday. At the end of the home series against Australia, skipper Virat Kohli had indicated that only one slot was up for grabs, as the core had been set for the past one year. With 14 members all but decided for the marquee event in England starting May 30, the discussion on the combination is likely to take precedence over any out-of-the-box name or a left-field selection. Young Rishabh Pant's competition for the second keeper's slot with veteran Dinesh Karthik will be the highlight of the discussion. Pant, who has so far scored 222 runs in the IPL compared to a mere 93 by Karthik, looks favourite on paper as his inclusion comes with certain advantages. He can bat at any slot between Nos 1 and 7, is a left-hander, who can be a designated finisher plus the second keeper. Pant's keeping skills against spinners has room for improvement but even Karthik hasn't done anything in the last 12 months to make a strong case for himself. Their franchise coaches Ricky Ponting (Delhi Capitals) and Jacques Kallis (Kolkata Knight Riders), though, have thrown their weight behind their respective stars. However, with KL Rahul (335 runs in the ongoing IPL) back in the mix as the third opener and regularly keeping for Kings XI Punjab, the selectors might be tempted to use him as the second keeper, apart from third opener. "The second keeper only comes into play if MS Dhoni is injured. Rishabh is a phenomenal talent but he has not done anything exceptional in ODIs. Can he hit consistently in 50 overs is the question. But he is in mix," a former India player, privy to selection patterns, told PTI. In case Rahul is made the second keeper, it might just open the doors for Ambati Rayudu as the specialist No. 4 batsman. Rayudu was a certainty till November when Kohli and Ravi Shastri had identified him as their No 4 but the Hyderabad batsman's adventurous decision to quit long form domestic cricket and poor technique against fast bowling has left him thoroughly exposed. With Shreyas Iyer (221) not given any chance during the season, Rayudu might get lucky if the idea of a specialist second keeper is done away with. In case the team management considers all-rounder Vijay Shankar as their No. 4 at the start of the tournament, then it would be curtains for Rayudu. The final bone of contention could be the fourth specialist seamer considering that the English weather could be very fickle, especially in places like Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester. "As of now the team is looking at Vijay Shankar and Hardik Pandya as the combined fourth seamer. Ravindra Jadeja with his all round skills and big hitting prowess is a necessity. Plus in dry conditions, he will be a restrictive option," the source said. But what could pose a problem is India's fourth specialist pacer Umesh Yadav's inconsistency. Khaleel Ahmed is a left-arm option but he has not shown enough maturity in tesg times. Ishant Sharma, for his past record in England, a tearaway quick like Navdeep Saini or may be even a good Powerplay bowler like Deepak Chahar could all be inspirational choices which this selection committee may or may not indulge in. "This selection committee has been pretty consistent with their policies and I don't think they have any reasons to deviate. Don't expect left field selections like Amay Khurasiya (1999) or Dinesh Mongia (2003). But you never know," he added. Potential squad: Certainties: (14) Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mahendra Singh Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Vijay Shankar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja 15th member (options) If 2nd keeper: Dinesh Karthik/Rishabh Pant If specialist No 4: Ambati Rayudu If 4th pacer: Umesh Yadav/Khaleel Ahmed/Ishant Sharma/Navdeep Saini.

India's World Cup selection dilemma: 1 slot and 3 possible combinations

11 players who can solve fourth-place conundrum in Team India's World Cup squad

Indian spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kolkata-teammate-kuldeep-yadav-reveals-andre-russells-weakness-ahead-of-cricket-world-cup-209611">Kuldeep Yadav</a>, who also plays for Kolkata franchise in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a>, spoke about his national team's captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

He said, "He's one of the best in the world, has broken so many records I don't think he will be affected by this," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

"He has a different hunger when he plays for India. Everyone is highly motivated to do well in the World Cup," Kuldeep added.&nbsp;

Kuldeep refused to believe that the IPL losing streak will affect the skipper's form going into the World Cup.&nbsp;

The Kohli-led Bangalore team have lost six matches on the trot this IPL season but Kuldeep backed his captain.&nbsp;

Kuldeep also gave his opinion on Bangalore's disappointing performance.&nbsp;

He said, "With 5000-plus runs, individually he's doing his best. But maybe his team combination is not clicking. Maybe somewhere down the line he's lacking in team combination. It's a team combination.&nbsp;

"He's in great touch and if he keeps doing well like that it will be good for India in World Cup," Kuldeep concluded. &nbsp;

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who also plays for Kolkata franchise in the Indian Premier League, spoke about his national team's captain Virat Kohli. He said, "He's one of the best in the world, has broken so many records I don't think he will be affected by this," Kuldeep said.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who also plays for Kolkata franchise in the Indian Premier League, spoke about his national team's captain Virat Kohli. He said, "He's one of the best in the world, has broken so many records I don't think he will be affected by this," Kuldeep said. "He has a different hunger when he plays for India. Everyone is highly motivated to do well in the World Cup," Kuldeep added. Kuldeep refused to believe that the IPL losing streak will affect the skipper's form going into the World Cup. The Kohli-led Bangalore team have lost six matches on the trot this IPL season but Kuldeep backed his captain. Kuldeep also gave his opinion on Bangalore's disappointing performance. He said, "With 5000-plus runs, individually he's doing his best. But maybe his team combination is not clicking. Maybe somewhere down the line he's lacking in team combination. It's a team combination. "He's in great touch and if he keeps doing well like that it will be good for India in World Cup," Kuldeep concluded.

Virat Kohli has different kind of hunger when he plays for India, says Kuldeep Yadav

Former South African captain Graeme Smith has some advice for Australia coach Justin Langer -- make sure <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a>'s ego is managed if he starts to "get bigger than everybody else".&nbsp;

The polarising opener, on the comeback trail after a one-year ban for ball-tampering, has been in red-hot form in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> ahead of his expected recall to the national side for the World Cup in England and Wales.

But some commentators believe Warner's return could be disruptive to the team, which is now resurgent after a run of poor results, and that he needs to manage carefully.

Smith, who skippered his country for more than a decade, said that while he admired Warner's batting, he had "pissed a lot of people off" throughout his career.

"I don't know," he told Fox Sports on Tuesday evening when asked if he would have any issue in welcoming Warner back to the Australian team.

"It's difficult to know what it's like behind the scenes, but he's always been an incredible cricketer," added Smith, who played 117 Tests before retiring in 2014.

"Especially when he bats, he bats with that driven nature, that intensity, ego to perform. And he's an excellent cricketer.

"I think where David has been throughout his career is that he's pissed a lot of people off. He's just that type of guy. I think at the moment he needs Australian cricket more than they need him."

Warner is suspected of instigating a plot to use sandpaper to alter the ball in the now infamous Cape Town Test last year. He has long been a divisive figure.

And Smith believes his behaviour needs to be monitored closely.

"I think he's very driven, I think he wants to do well, he wants to prove his worth again. And I think David Warner in that position is probably a good guy to have in your environment," he said.

"It's when he starts to get bigger than everybody else then probably management needs to be ready for that.&nbsp;

"Guys like Langer and whoever is captaining the side going forward need to ensure they stay on top of that and manage that space and that ego well going forward."

The reintegration of Warner and co-conspirator Steve Smith has already begun with the pair meeting the one-day team after their bans expired late last month.

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts recently said team-mates don't always need to be "best mates".

"In any workplace, you don't need to be best mates with everyone, but there needs to be a foundation of respect and I think there is growing respect there," he said.

Former South African captain Graeme Smith has some advice for Australia coach Justin Langer -- make sure David Warner's ego is managed if he starts to "get bigger than everybody else".

Former South African captain Graeme Smith has some advice for Australia coach Justin Langer -- make sure David Warner's ego is managed if he starts to "get bigger than everybody else". The polarising opener, on the comeback trail after a one-year ban for ball-tampering, has been in red-hot form in the Indian Premier League ahead of his expected recall to the national side for the World Cup in England and Wales. But some commentators believe Warner's return could be disruptive to the team, which is now resurgent after a run of poor results, and that he needs to manage carefully. Smith, who skippered his country for more than a decade, said that while he admired Warner's batting, he had "pissed a lot of people off" throughout his career. "I don't know," he told Fox Sports on Tuesday evening when asked if he would have any issue in welcoming Warner back to the Australian team. "It's difficult to know what it's like behind the scenes, but he's always been an incredible cricketer," added Smith, who played 117 Tests before retiring in 2014. "Especially when he bats, he bats with that driven nature, that intensity, ego to perform. And he's an excellent cricketer. "I think where David has been throughout his career is that he's pissed a lot of people off. He's just that type of guy. I think at the moment he needs Australian cricket more than they need him." Warner is suspected of instigating a plot to use sandpaper to alter the ball in the now infamous Cape Town Test last year. He has long been a divisive figure. And Smith believes his behaviour needs to be monitored closely. "I think he's very driven, I think he wants to do well, he wants to prove his worth again. And I think David Warner in that position is probably a good guy to have in your environment," he said. "It's when he starts to get bigger than everybody else then probably management needs to be ready for that. "Guys like Langer and whoever is captaining the side going forward need to ensure they stay on top of that and manage that space and that ego well going forward." The reintegration of Warner and co-conspirator Steve Smith has already begun with the pair meeting the one-day team after their bans expired late last month. Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts recently said team-mates don't always need to be "best mates". "In any workplace, you don't need to be best mates with everyone, but there needs to be a foundation of respect and I think there is growing respect there," he said.

David Warner's ego must be managed: Smith

Team India to announce the&nbsp;15-member squad on April 15 for the upcoming cricket World Cup, which is scheduled&nbsp;to&nbsp;start from&nbsp;May&nbsp;30 in England&nbsp;and Wales with England and South Africa playing the first game of the tournament.&nbsp;

India will start their World Cup campaign&nbsp;on June 5 against South Africa.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Committee of Administrators (CoA) along with office bearers decided on the date during a meeting.&nbsp;

The last date for announcing the World Cup squads is April 23 but BCCI has decided to announce it eight days prior to the scheduled day.

Meanwhile, the BCCI will be getting Rs 2.09 crore from Cricket Australia after reconciliation of accounts for the past 10 years.

"There have been discussions on accounts settlements over all the past bilateral series between India and Australia. We are supposed to get Rs 2.09 crore. The discussions are still on. The office bearers will again meet the CoA on April 20," a BCCI official told PTI on Monday.&nbsp;

Team India to announce the 15-member squad on April 15 for the upcoming cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to start from May 30 in England and Wales with England and South Africa playing the first game of the tournament.

Team India to announce the 15-member squad on April 15 for the upcoming cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to start from May 30 in England and Wales with England and South Africa playing the first game of the tournament. India will start their World Cup campaign on June 5 against South Africa. The Committee of Administrators (CoA) along with office bearers decided on the date during a meeting. The last date for announcing the World Cup squads is April 23 but BCCI has decided to announce it eight days prior to the scheduled day. Meanwhile, the BCCI will be getting Rs 2.09 crore from Cricket Australia after reconciliation of accounts for the past 10 years. "There have been discussions on accounts settlements over all the past bilateral series between India and Australia. We are supposed to get Rs 2.09 crore. The discussions are still on. The office bearers will again meet the CoA on April 20," a BCCI official told PTI on Monday.

India's World Cup squad selection on April 15 in Mumbai

Fitting the disgraced duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Steve+Smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=David+Warner">David Warner</a> into Australia's World Cup squad will be "bloody hard" given the side's resurgence without them, according to captain Aaron Finch.

Both Smith and Warner are eligible to return to the national side after their 12-month suspensions for ball-tampering ended on Thursday.

Australia beat Pakistan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in their five-match ODI series, and have now won six matches in succession after coming back to defeat India 3-2 away.

Finch said it would be tough for selectors to decide who to leave out of the 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England.

"It is bloody hard," he said.

"Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult. No matter who it is.

"At the end of the day ... it's an incredibly tough decision. Whatever balance you go with in that 15-man squad, there's going to be some very unlucky blokes out there."

One could be Usman Khawaja, formerly a fringe member of the one-day side, who has flourished opening the batting with Finch since his recall in January, with 609 runs at an average of 55.36.

The left-hander could make way for Warner, who has scored more than 4,300 one-day runs and 14 centuries, in an explosive opening combination with Finch.

Smith, who has only just returned from elbow surgery, would complement a middle order of Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb, with all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell providing power-hitting through the lower-middle order.

Having struggled for a period without Smith and Warner, Finch's side have shown the kind of form that propelled them to a fifth World Cup title four years ago on home soil.

Finch said consistency of selection had aided their turnaround.

"The fact that guys are getting more of an opportunity to keep developing their role, and developing the role they've been asked to play or the game demands, is gold," he said.

"That probably goes under the radar a little bit when you're looking at teams that have been successful in the past.

"I think leading up to the 2015 World Cup, we'd had the same 15 players for a good 18 months or so.

"That goes a long way, not just to your culture but just an understanding of how each other plays."

Fitting the disgraced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner into Australia's World Cup squad will be "bloody hard" given the side's resurgence without them, according to captain Aaron Finch.

Fitting the disgraced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner into Australia's World Cup squad will be "bloody hard" given the side's resurgence without them, according to captain Aaron Finch. Both Smith and Warner are eligible to return to the national side after their 12-month suspensions for ball-tampering ended on Thursday. Australia beat Pakistan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in their five-match ODI series, and have now won six matches in succession after coming back to defeat India 3-2 away. Finch said it would be tough for selectors to decide who to leave out of the 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England. "It is bloody hard," he said. "Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult. No matter who it is. "At the end of the day ... it's an incredibly tough decision. Whatever balance you go with in that 15-man squad, there's going to be some very unlucky blokes out there." One could be Usman Khawaja, formerly a fringe member of the one-day side, who has flourished opening the batting with Finch since his recall in January, with 609 runs at an average of 55.36. The left-hander could make way for Warner, who has scored more than 4,300 one-day runs and 14 centuries, in an explosive opening combination with Finch. Smith, who has only just returned from elbow surgery, would complement a middle order of Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb, with all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell providing power-hitting through the lower-middle order. Having struggled for a period without Smith and Warner, Finch's side have shown the kind of form that propelled them to a fifth World Cup title four years ago on home soil. Finch said consistency of selection had aided their turnaround. "The fact that guys are getting more of an opportunity to keep developing their role, and developing the role they've been asked to play or the game demands, is gold," he said. "That probably goes under the radar a little bit when you're looking at teams that have been successful in the past. "I think leading up to the 2015 World Cup, we'd had the same 15 players for a good 18 months or so. "That goes a long way, not just to your culture but just an understanding of how each other plays."

Return of Steve Smith, David Warner makes for hard selections: Aaron Finch

India's legendary cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Yuvraj+Singh">Yuvraj Singh</a> said that he has not yet decided and he would be the first one to bid adieu when he feels that his time is up.&nbsp;

Yuvraj Singh was India's 2007 World T20 and 2011 World Cup hero but remained out of national team's scheme of things for good.&nbsp;

He also had a poor track record in Indian Premier League but started the twelfth edition on a bright note with a half-century for his latest franchise Mumbai.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old admitted that at times he felt indecisive about carrying on.&nbsp;

"When the time comes, I will be the first one to hang my boots," Yuvraj told the media persons after Mumbai's 37-run defeat against Delhi on Sunday.&nbsp;

"The last two years, have been up and down (for me). And I could not decide on what to do," said the 37-year-old.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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"I'll play till the time I enjoy playing cricket." - <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> reveals having consulted former teammate and <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> mentor <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> on playing as long as the spirit &amp; desire remains! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y7KtUZnA1c">pic.twitter.com/Y7KtUZnA1c</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1110067288496066561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The main thing for me was why I played the game when I started off. I played the game because I enjoyed playing cricket. When I enjoyed playing cricket, I was not playing for India. I was playing for U-14s and U-16s. So till the time, I enjoy playing cricket, I am going to play."

"I have been speaking to Sachin (Tendulkar) as well and he has gone through that time when he was 37-38-39 (and how he felt). Talking to him makes things easier for me. And I am just playing because I enjoy playing cricket pretty much," he signed off.&nbsp;

Yuvraj said that when he did a self-introspection, he found that he is still enjoying the game just as he did as a U-16 cricketer not thinking about national team selection.&nbsp;

India's legendary cricketer Yuvraj Singh said that he has not yet decided and he would be the first one to bid adieu when he feels that his time is up. Yuvraj Singh was India's 2007 World T20 and 2011 World Cup hero but remained out of national team's scheme of things for good.

India's legendary cricketer Yuvraj Singh said that he has not yet decided and he would be the first one to bid adieu when he feels that his time is up. Yuvraj Singh was India's 2007 World T20 and 2011 World Cup hero but remained out of national team's scheme of things for good. He also had a poor track record in Indian Premier League but started the twelfth edition on a bright note with a half-century for his latest franchise Mumbai. The 37-year-old admitted that at times he felt indecisive about carrying on. "When the time comes, I will be the first one to hang my boots," Yuvraj told the media persons after Mumbai's 37-run defeat against Delhi on Sunday. "The last two years, have been up and down (for me). And I could not decide on what to do," said the 37-year-old. "I'll play till the time I enjoy playing cricket." - @YUVSTRONG12 reveals having consulted former teammate and @mipaltan mentor @sachin_rt on playing as long as the spirit & desire remains! #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/Y7KtUZnA1c — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 25, 2019 × "The main thing for me was why I played the game when I started off. I played the game because I enjoyed playing cricket. When I enjoyed playing cricket, I was not playing for India. I was playing for U-14s and U-16s. So till the time, I enjoy playing cricket, I am going to play." "I have been speaking to Sachin (Tendulkar) as well and he has gone through that time when he was 37-38-39 (and how he felt). Talking to him makes things easier for me. And I am just playing because I enjoy playing cricket pretty much," he signed off. Yuvraj said that when he did a self-introspection, he found that he is still enjoying the game just as he did as a U-16 cricketer not thinking about national team selection.

At times I felt indecisive about carrying on: Yuvraj Singh on retirement

Former Australian&nbsp;cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked&nbsp;his favourites&nbsp;for ICC&nbsp;World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

Most of the spectators and analysts from the cricketing world&nbsp;have picked India, Australia, England as the title contenders. Now, Ponting has also&nbsp;shared his opinion on the same.&nbsp;

Ponting said that Australia should not get carried away after their recent away series win in India and&nbsp;added, "Australia are a very talented team and I expect them to reach the semis."&nbsp;

He reflected his view on India's chances, saying,&nbsp;"No need for India to panic after losing three ODI games in a row." But mentioned that India&nbsp;"have&nbsp;to sort their middle order batting" ahead of the tournament.&nbsp;

However, he backed England more considering their&nbsp;home conditions and their&nbsp;balanced squad. He said that the English team has got&nbsp;depth in the squad with&nbsp;in-form players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ponting said that he is very excited for the upcoming cricketing&nbsp;months but&nbsp;believes that it is tough to foresee the winner of the cricket's extravaganza.&nbsp;

Watch the interview:&nbsp;

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Ahead of Indian Premier League 2019,&nbsp;Delhi Capitals head coach Ponting talked about his side's preparation and chances of winning the T20 league which will kick off from March 23.&nbsp;

The two-time World Cup winner Ponting said that Delhi Capitals&nbsp;is balanced&nbsp;team and has enough depth to excel.&nbsp;

He said, "I think we have got a very well-balanced squad."

"I&nbsp;think all squads end up looking good on paper. It is about how they&nbsp;play and how we prepare them, how we train them and&nbsp;how we ready them for the IPL with the difference between winning and not winning."&nbsp;

"I am excited with the squad and will look to play the first match," Ponting said. "Needs to have the flexibility to play different teams," he added.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals finished at the bottom of the points table in his first season in-charge but in the upcoming edition, they seek a change in fortunes as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;

He said, "I am excited, it does feel like a really fresh start. The whole rebrand of Delhi Capitals is really exciting."&nbsp;

"We have got some exciting players to work with so I can not wait for the first game." He also added that the team has a balance of young and experienced players.&nbsp;

Delhi already has retained Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw at the time of auction and to boost the batting unit further, they traded batsman Shikhar Dhawan from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem.&nbsp;

DC also spend lavishly to pick South African player Colin Ingram which is a clear indication that the Delhi team has intended to strengthen their batting unit.

The bowling unit is a good balance of pace and spin. They already had retained&nbsp;Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult.&nbsp;Besides, they purchased Ishant Sharma to add more fuel to the bowling unit.&nbsp;

Ponting also shared his&nbsp;concerns about players' workload ahead of the World Cup.&nbsp;He said&nbsp;that we have built the&nbsp;team considering all the possible factors. Like no Australian in the squad as they won't be available&nbsp;for&nbsp;the first two weeks also will leave early.&nbsp;

"Our aim is to win the IPL, and if we can manage the players and the combinations well throughout the tournament, it will turn out to be a very successful season for the Capitals," he said during press conference.&nbsp;

"We can achieve some pretty special things this season," he added.&nbsp;

Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai In Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked his favourites for ICC World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked his favourites for ICC World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. Most of the spectators and analysts from the cricketing world have picked India, Australia, England as the title contenders. Now, Ponting has also shared his opinion on the same. Ponting said that Australia should not get carried away after their recent away series win in India and added, "Australia are a very talented team and I expect them to reach the semis." He reflected his view on India's chances, saying, "No need for India to panic after losing three ODI games in a row." But mentioned that India "have to sort their middle order batting" ahead of the tournament. However, he backed England more considering their home conditions and their balanced squad. He said that the English team has got depth in the squad with in-form players. Ponting said that he is very excited for the upcoming cricketing months but believes that it is tough to foresee the winner of the cricket's extravaganza. Watch the interview: × Ahead of Indian Premier League 2019, Delhi Capitals head coach Ponting talked about his side's preparation and chances of winning the T20 league which will kick off from March 23. The two-time World Cup winner Ponting said that Delhi Capitals is balanced team and has enough depth to excel. He said, "I think we have got a very well-balanced squad." "I think all squads end up looking good on paper. It is about how they play and how we prepare them, how we train them and how we ready them for the IPL with the difference between winning and not winning." "I am excited with the squad and will look to play the first match," Ponting said. "Needs to have the flexibility to play different teams," he added. Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals finished at the bottom of the points table in his first season in-charge but in the upcoming edition, they seek a change in fortunes as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals. He said, "I am excited, it does feel like a really fresh start. The whole rebrand of Delhi Capitals is really exciting." "We have got some exciting players to work with so I can not wait for the first game." He also added that the team has a balance of young and experienced players. Delhi already has retained Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw at the time of auction and to boost the batting unit further, they traded batsman Shikhar Dhawan from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem. DC also spend lavishly to pick South African player Colin Ingram which is a clear indication that the Delhi team has intended to strengthen their batting unit. The bowling unit is a good balance of pace and spin. They already had retained Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult. Besides, they purchased Ishant Sharma to add more fuel to the bowling unit. Ponting also shared his concerns about players' workload ahead of the World Cup. He said that we have built the team considering all the possible factors. Like no Australian in the squad as they won't be available for the first two weeks also will leave early. "Our aim is to win the IPL, and if we can manage the players and the combinations well throughout the tournament, it will turn out to be a very successful season for the Capitals," he said during press conference. "We can achieve some pretty special things this season," he added. Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai In Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

England the team to beat at World Cup, Ricky Ponting tells WION