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


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

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

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

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smith-feeling-good-as-he-is-back-in-nets-after-elbow-surgery-200451">Steve Smith and David Warner</a> have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left.</p>

<p>The disgraced pair, whose year-long bans for ball-tampering expire this month, were invited by coach Justin Langer as part of their re-integration after the scandal in South Africa that rocked the cricketing world.</p>

<p>Australia are in Dubai as they prepare for an upcoming series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates following their upset one-day series win against India.</p>

<p>"It's been awesome. It's like we didn't really leave, the boys were very accepting of us coming in and with open arms," said Warner in audio comments supplied to AFP Sunday.</p>

<p>"A lot of big hugs and cuddles. It's been great.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's good to see the spirit they're in after a great series win in India and I am obviously looking forward to watching them play against Pakistan here and hopefully they win that series as well," he added.</p>

<p>The "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town, which also saw opening batsman Cameron Bancroft banned for nine months, had far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket.</p>

<p>Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and there was a clean-out of top executives from Cricket Australia after a scathing review said its "arrogant and controlling" culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules.</p>

<p>Australian cricket has since undergone a host of cultural changes under Langer, and Warner and Smith were brought up to speed at the meeting on how it now worked.</p>

<p>"Making sure we're in line with team values moving forwards," Warner said of the meet-up, which also discussed the squad's preparations for the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Obviously (we've) been out for 12 months and there has been a big change, which is great, and it's about excepting that and playing what our role should be in the team."</p>

<p>Smith, who was stripped of the captaincy and is barred from being considered for any leadership role for a further 12 months after his ban ends, echoed Warner's comments.</p>

<p>"It seems like some really good energy among the team at the moment," he said.</p>

<p>"It's great to be back around the group, they've been really welcoming and almost like we've never left."</p>

<p>While the cheating row initially unleashed a torrent of vitriol against them, that sentiment has eased significantly and they are expected to be slotted straight back into the team.</p>

<p>Smith said the Dubai catch-up went through "the values that are instilled in the team at the moment and making sure we are on the right path looking forward to what's coming up; a huge World Cup and an Ashes series in England".</p>

<p>Both players, who are returning from elbow injuries, are eligible for the final two games of the Pakistan series. But selectors decided it would be better to ease themselves back at the upcoming Indian Premier League.</p>


Steve Smith and David Warner have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left.

Steve Smith and David Warner have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left. The disgraced pair, whose year-long bans for ball-tampering expire this month, were invited by coach Justin Langer as part of their re-integration after the scandal in South Africa that rocked the cricketing world. Australia are in Dubai as they prepare for an upcoming series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates following their upset one-day series win against India. "It's been awesome. It's like we didn't really leave, the boys were very accepting of us coming in and with open arms," said Warner in audio comments supplied to AFP Sunday. "A lot of big hugs and cuddles. It's been great. "It's good to see the spirit they're in after a great series win in India and I am obviously looking forward to watching them play against Pakistan here and hopefully they win that series as well," he added. The "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town, which also saw opening batsman Cameron Bancroft banned for nine months, had far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket. Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and there was a clean-out of top executives from Cricket Australia after a scathing review said its "arrogant and controlling" culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules. Australian cricket has since undergone a host of cultural changes under Langer, and Warner and Smith were brought up to speed at the meeting on how it now worked. "Making sure we're in line with team values moving forwards," Warner said of the meet-up, which also discussed the squad's preparations for the upcoming World Cup. "Obviously (we've) been out for 12 months and there has been a big change, which is great, and it's about excepting that and playing what our role should be in the team." Smith, who was stripped of the captaincy and is barred from being considered for any leadership role for a further 12 months after his ban ends, echoed Warner's comments. "It seems like some really good energy among the team at the moment," he said. "It's great to be back around the group, they've been really welcoming and almost like we've never left." While the cheating row initially unleashed a torrent of vitriol against them, that sentiment has eased significantly and they are expected to be slotted straight back into the team. Smith said the Dubai catch-up went through "the values that are instilled in the team at the moment and making sure we are on the right path looking forward to what's coming up; a huge World Cup and an Ashes series in England". Both players, who are returning from elbow injuries, are eligible for the final two games of the Pakistan series. But selectors decided it would be better to ease themselves back at the upcoming Indian Premier League.

'It's like we didn't really leave': Steve Smith, David Warner on returning to the Australian cricket team

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded recently retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring "positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged".&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi made a special mention of the contribution made by Gambhir during India's triumphant campaign at the ICC World Twenty20 2007 and the ICC World Cup (50-over) in 2011.</p>

<p>"Let me begin by congratulating you for your stupendous contribution to Indian sports! India will always be grateful to you for you memorable performances, many of which resulted in historic victories for our nation," Modi wrote in the letter which was posted by Gambhir on his Twitter handle.</p>

<p>Gambhir thanked the PM for his kind words.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country," he said in the same tweet posted along with the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi praised Gambhir's passion for the game.</p>

<p>"I am sure the journey was filled with both ups and downs but your dedication and persistence ensured that you began to play for the nation. Within a short span, you emerged as a dependable opener, who often took the team to flying starts," the Prime Minister said.</p>

<p>The 37-year-old Gambhir was one of the most outspoken sportsmen who do not shy away from voicing their opinions on several issues facing the nation.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country. <a href="https://t.co/3P3HcViIJ5">pic.twitter.com/3P3HcViIJ5</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1074244973258776581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The firmness and frankness with which you have spoken about issues, especially relating to India's unity and integrity have endeared you to people across the spectrum," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Alongside your game, you have been at the forefront of several community service initiatives and this is extremely heartening to see. It is great when public figures show the way and devote time as well as resources towards bringing a positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gambhir made 58 Test appearances for India, accumulating 4154 runs at an average of 41.95. His 147 ODI games fetched 5238 runs, while in 37 T20 Internationals, he scored 932 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you announced retirement from all forms of cricket, you left several well wishers of yours disappointed. However, this decision marks the start of not one but several other innings of your life. You will have the time and opportunity to pursue other aspects which you would have wanted to pursue a lot earlier but didn't not have the time for," Modi said.</p>

<p>After his retirement, there was speculation that Gambhir may join politics but he categorically rejected it.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded recently retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring "positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded recently retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring "positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged". PM Modi made a special mention of the contribution made by Gambhir during India's triumphant campaign at the ICC World Twenty20 2007 and the ICC World Cup (50-over) in 2011. "Let me begin by congratulating you for your stupendous contribution to Indian sports! India will always be grateful to you for you memorable performances, many of which resulted in historic victories for our nation," Modi wrote in the letter which was posted by Gambhir on his Twitter handle. Gambhir thanked the PM for his kind words. "Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country," he said in the same tweet posted along with the letter. Modi praised Gambhir's passion for the game. "I am sure the journey was filled with both ups and downs but your dedication and persistence ensured that you began to play for the nation. Within a short span, you emerged as a dependable opener, who often took the team to flying starts," the Prime Minister said. The 37-year-old Gambhir was one of the most outspoken sportsmen who do not shy away from voicing their opinions on several issues facing the nation. Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country. pic.twitter.com/3P3HcViIJ5 — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 16, 2018 × "The firmness and frankness with which you have spoken about issues, especially relating to India's unity and integrity have endeared you to people across the spectrum," PM Modi said. "Alongside your game, you have been at the forefront of several community service initiatives and this is extremely heartening to see. It is great when public figures show the way and devote time as well as resources towards bringing a positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged," he said. Gambhir made 58 Test appearances for India, accumulating 4154 runs at an average of 41.95. His 147 ODI games fetched 5238 runs, while in 37 T20 Internationals, he scored 932 runs. "When you announced retirement from all forms of cricket, you left several well wishers of yours disappointed. However, this decision marks the start of not one but several other innings of your life. You will have the time and opportunity to pursue other aspects which you would have wanted to pursue a lot earlier but didn't not have the time for," Modi said. After his retirement, there was speculation that Gambhir may join politics but he categorically rejected it.

PM Modi lauds Gambhir for his contribution to Indian cricket and his work on social causes