Two-time champions India and 2015 runners-up New Zealand will leave no stone unturned when they will battle for final World Cup berth at Manchester's Old Trafford cricket stadium.&nbsp;

However, the rain gods might have something else planned for today's game.

Light showers are expected in the morning, which will lead to overcast conditions in the late morning at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Fast bowlers will love the cloud cover over the Old Trafford pitch, if Indian captain Virat Kohli wins the toss he would want to make use of his pace attack spearheaded by Bumrah &amp; Co although Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed had chosen to ball first at the same venue after winning the toss against India and lost, so it will be a tough call for anybody calling the toss.

The rain is expected to affect the crucial first hour of the match, according to the weather report.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-know-what-will-happen-if-india-vs-new-zealand-match-gets-abandoned-234101">Know what will happen if India vs New Zealand match gets abandoned</a>

Showers are expected at 11 am BST (3:30 pm IST) and after clearing up in an hour again it is set to hit by 6 pm BST (10:30 pm IST) in the last stages of the game.

The maximum temperature in Manchester is expected to be around 20 degrees.

Cloud cover is expected throughout the day and selection of the playing XI will depend on the conditions of the pitch.

India's league-stage match against New Zealand in Nottingham was washed out due to rain.

In case of another washout today, the reserve day will come into play and the two teams will play the semi-final on Wednesday.

Watch: Virat's pre-match press conference

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If Wednesday's game is also washed out, then India, with more points in the group stages than New Zealand, will progress to play the final.

Two-time champions India and 2015 runners-up New Zealand will leave no stone unturned when they will battle for final World Cup berth at Manchester's Old Trafford cricket stadium.

Two-time champions India and 2015 runners-up New Zealand will leave no stone unturned when they will battle for final World Cup berth at Manchester's Old Trafford cricket stadium. However, the rain gods might have something else planned for today's game. Light showers are expected in the morning, which will lead to overcast conditions in the late morning at Old Trafford. Fast bowlers will love the cloud cover over the Old Trafford pitch, if Indian captain Virat Kohli wins the toss he would want to make use of his pace attack spearheaded by Bumrah & Co although Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed had chosen to ball first at the same venue after winning the toss against India and lost, so it will be a tough call for anybody calling the toss. The rain is expected to affect the crucial first hour of the match, according to the weather report. Also Read: Know what will happen if India vs New Zealand match gets abandoned Showers are expected at 11 am BST (3:30 pm IST) and after clearing up in an hour again it is set to hit by 6 pm BST (10:30 pm IST) in the last stages of the game. The maximum temperature in Manchester is expected to be around 20 degrees. Cloud cover is expected throughout the day and selection of the playing XI will depend on the conditions of the pitch. India's league-stage match against New Zealand in Nottingham was washed out due to rain. In case of another washout today, the reserve day will come into play and the two teams will play the semi-final on Wednesday. Watch: Virat's pre-match press conference × If Wednesday's game is also washed out, then India, with more points in the group stages than New Zealand, will progress to play the final.

World Cup: Overcast clouds, rain expected at Manchester ahead of India vs New Zealand semi-final

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah achieved another feat in the ongoing&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2019.

The 25-year-old has now bowled the most number of maiden overs in the tournament.&nbsp;

Bumrah took his tally of maiden overs to nine after no run was scored in his first over against New Zealand in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231">semi-final</a> on Tuesday.

Bumrah along with the other Indian bowlers kept the Kiwi batsmen on the backfoot, not allowing them to score runs freely.&nbsp;

He brought the first breakthrough in the match for the Indian side when he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-new-zealands-martin-guptill-in-semi-final-234308">dismissed Martin Guptill</a> for one run in his second over.

The ball got a thick outside edge and Virat Kohli, fielding at second slip grabbed it diving to his left.&nbsp;This was Guptill's fifth single-digit score in this year's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-old-trafford-becomes-no-fly-zone-for-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-clash-234279">World Cup</a>.

In the list of bowlers with most maiden overs, Bumrah is followed by England pacer Jofra Archer, who has bowled eight maidens so far.

Archer will have the chance to match Bumrah in the second semi-final of the World Cup 2019 when England take on Australia at Birmingham on July 11.

Recently, Bumrah has extended his lead at the top&nbsp;in the latest ICC ODI rankings from 21 points to 56 points after grabbing 17 wickets in the nine league matches at the World Cup.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah achieved another feat in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2019. The 25-year-old has now bowled the most number of maiden overs in the tournament.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah achieved another feat in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2019. The 25-year-old has now bowled the most number of maiden overs in the tournament. Bumrah took his tally of maiden overs to nine after no run was scored in his first over against New Zealand in the semi-final on Tuesday. Bumrah along with the other Indian bowlers kept the Kiwi batsmen on the backfoot, not allowing them to score runs freely. He brought the first breakthrough in the match for the Indian side when he dismissed Martin Guptill for one run in his second over. The ball got a thick outside edge and Virat Kohli, fielding at second slip grabbed it diving to his left. This was Guptill's fifth single-digit score in this year's World Cup. In the list of bowlers with most maiden overs, Bumrah is followed by England pacer Jofra Archer, who has bowled eight maidens so far. Archer will have the chance to match Bumrah in the second semi-final of the World Cup 2019 when England take on Australia at Birmingham on July 11. Recently, Bumrah has extended his lead at the top in the latest ICC ODI rankings from 21 points to 56 points after grabbing 17 wickets in the nine league matches at the World Cup.

India's Jasprit Bumrah has bowled most maiden overs in World Cup 2019

Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes the calmness behind India captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-new-zealands-martin-guptill-in-semi-final-234308">Virat Kohli</a> is veteran wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni.

"Virat Kohli is able to express himself as a captain but the calmness behind that is MS Dhoni," Panesar told ANI on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-always-be-my-captain-virat-kohli-shares-emotional-message-for-ms-dhoni-233808">Dhoni </a>celebrated his 38th birthday on Sunday. The ongoing World Cup is being called as the veteran's last One-Day International (ODI) tournament.

Reflecting on the same, Panesar said Dhoni would be aiming to lift the World Cup and have a final farewell.

"This is probably Dhoni's dream because this could be his last one-day he plays and retires with winning the World Cup.

I am sure he probably in the background wants to win the World Cup, have his final farewell," he said.

When asked what does he think about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-coach-ravi-shastri-backs-team-india-ahead-of-clash-vs-new-zealand-234242">India's bowling attack</a>, the former England spinner said Indian bowling unit has been doing well in the last couple of years.

Panesar also lauded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-jasprit-bumrah-is-basically-unplayable-says-daniel-vettori-ahead-of-semi-final-clash-233994">Jasprit Bumrah</a> and Mohammad Shami.

"India's seam attackers (have) definitely done very well in the last couple of years. They have got the number one bowler in the world Jasprit Bumrah. And Mohammad Shami is in great form with his hat-trick," he said.

Talking about India's performance in the ongoing World Cup so far, Panesar said the Men in Blue are performing well and playing brilliant cricket.

He further said that India can adapt to the situation very easily.

"India have been performing very well. They played brilliant cricket (against Australia at the Oval). When they played Pakistan at Old Trafford, they batted first and posted a huge total. India are very adaptable at the moment. They are able to chase," he added.

Table-toppers India's first semi-final of the World Cup against New Zealand at Old Trafford is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231">currently underway</a>.

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes the calmness behind India captain Virat Kohli is veteran wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni. "Virat Kohli is able to express himself as a captain but the calmness behind that is MS Dhoni," Panesar told ANI on Tuesday.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes the calmness behind India captain Virat Kohli is veteran wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni. "Virat Kohli is able to express himself as a captain but the calmness behind that is MS Dhoni," Panesar told ANI on Tuesday. Dhoni celebrated his 38th birthday on Sunday. The ongoing World Cup is being called as the veteran's last One-Day International (ODI) tournament. Reflecting on the same, Panesar said Dhoni would be aiming to lift the World Cup and have a final farewell. "This is probably Dhoni's dream because this could be his last one-day he plays and retires with winning the World Cup. I am sure he probably in the background wants to win the World Cup, have his final farewell," he said. When asked what does he think about India's bowling attack, the former England spinner said Indian bowling unit has been doing well in the last couple of years. Panesar also lauded Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami. "India's seam attackers (have) definitely done very well in the last couple of years. They have got the number one bowler in the world Jasprit Bumrah. And Mohammad Shami is in great form with his hat-trick," he said. Talking about India's performance in the ongoing World Cup so far, Panesar said the Men in Blue are performing well and playing brilliant cricket. He further said that India can adapt to the situation very easily. "India have been performing very well. They played brilliant cricket (against Australia at the Oval). When they played Pakistan at Old Trafford, they batted first and posted a huge total. India are very adaptable at the moment. They are able to chase," he added. Table-toppers India's first semi-final of the World Cup against New Zealand at Old Trafford is currently underway. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first.

World Cup: Dhoni's calmness behind Kohli's storm, says Monty Panesar

Indian skipper Virat Kohli grabbed a stunner to dismiss New Zealand opener Martin Guptill in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-old-trafford-becomes-no-fly-zone-for-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-clash-234279">first semi-final</a> of the ICC World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

Martin Guptill scored just one run off 14 balls before losing his wicket to Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-jasprit-bumrah-is-basically-unplayable-says-daniel-vettori-ahead-of-semi-final-clash-233994">Bumrah</a>'s second over, Guptill tried to defend a length ball but Kohli, standing at the second slip, took a brilliant catch.&nbsp;

The ball got a thick outside edge and Kohli grabbed it diving to his left.&nbsp;This was Guptill's fifth single-digit score in this year's World Cup.

In the match,&nbsp;The 2015 finalists made a change, bringing in a fit-again Lockie Ferguson, their leading wicket-taker in the tournament, and leaving out fellow quick bowler Tim Southee.

Twice champions India also made a change to the side that beat Sri Lanka in their final group match, bringing in Yuzvendra Chahal in place of fellow wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav.

India and New Zealand are playing each other for the first time in this year's tournament after the group match between the sides in Nottingham was washed out.

Tuesday's game is a repeat of the semi-final of the 2008 Under-19 World Cup in which a Kohli-led India defeated a Williamson-captained New Zealand in Kuala Lumpur.

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Yessss we got a first wicket in just a 3 overs against NZ 🇳🇿 . brilliant bowling by <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> 🇮🇳👌🏻👌🏻😌 and wonderful catch by king <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> 🇮🇳👌🏻 <a href="https://t.co/7Lqm4r0KVV">pic.twitter.com/7Lqm4r0KVV</a>
— Pranab Teja (@PranabTeja) <a href="https://twitter.com/PranabTeja/status/1148532874301202432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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What a catch by <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVKohli</a> !! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup19</a> <a href="https://t.co/jwekiT4dcG">pic.twitter.com/jwekiT4dcG</a>
— Shrey Tyagi (@iamshreytyagi) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamshreytyagi/status/1148531005008932866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231">live updates</a>&nbsp;of India vs New Zealand semi-final clash&nbsp;here.&nbsp;

Playing XI:

New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w), James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Trent Boult

India: Lokesh Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni(w), Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

Indian skipper Virat Kohli grabbed a stunner to dismiss New Zealand opener Martin Guptill in the first semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019. Martin Guptill scored just one run off 14 balls before losing his wicket to Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli grabbed a stunner to dismiss New Zealand opener Martin Guptill in the first semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019. Martin Guptill scored just one run off 14 balls before losing his wicket to Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah. During Bumrah's second over, Guptill tried to defend a length ball but Kohli, standing at the second slip, took a brilliant catch. The ball got a thick outside edge and Kohli grabbed it diving to his left. This was Guptill's fifth single-digit score in this year's World Cup. In the match, The 2015 finalists made a change, bringing in a fit-again Lockie Ferguson, their leading wicket-taker in the tournament, and leaving out fellow quick bowler Tim Southee. Twice champions India also made a change to the side that beat Sri Lanka in their final group match, bringing in Yuzvendra Chahal in place of fellow wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. India and New Zealand are playing each other for the first time in this year's tournament after the group match between the sides in Nottingham was washed out. Tuesday's game is a repeat of the semi-final of the 2008 Under-19 World Cup in which a Kohli-led India defeated a Williamson-captained New Zealand in Kuala Lumpur. Watch the video: Yessss we got a first wicket in just a 3 overs against NZ 🇳🇿 . brilliant bowling by @Jaspritbumrah93 🇮🇳👌🏻👌🏻😌 and wonderful catch by king @imVkohli 🇮🇳👌🏻 pic.twitter.com/7Lqm4r0KVV — Pranab Teja (@PranabTeja) July 9, 2019 × What a catch by @imVKohli !! #CWC19 #INDvsNZ #NZvIND #WorldCup19 pic.twitter.com/jwekiT4dcG — Shrey Tyagi (@iamshreytyagi) July 9, 2019 × Get live updates of India vs New Zealand semi-final clash here. Playing XI: New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w), James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Trent Boult India: Lokesh Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni(w), Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

Watch: Virat Kohli takes stunning catch to dismiss New Zealand's Martin Guptill in semi-final

Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday sent good wishes to the Indian cricket team, ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-coach-ravi-shastri-backs-team-india-ahead-of-clash-vs-new-zealand-234242">semi-final clash</a> against New Zealand in the ongoing ICC Mes Cricket World Cup.

"I have sent my good wishes to the Indian cricket team and I am hopeful they will perform well," Rijiju told ANI.

India have won the World Cup twice (1983 and 2011) whereas New Zealand are yet to lift the trophy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231">The Men in Blue</a> finished the group stage at the top of the standings with 15 points, whereas New Zealand finished fourth with 11 from nine matches each.

India would enter the semi-finals with winning momentum behind their back as they won their last two matches.

On the other hand, the Kiwi side have lost their last two matches and they would look to change their fortunes around.India will take on New Zealand in the semi-final match later in the day.

Following are the squads:

India:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-decision-making-will-be-crucial-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-semis-234029">Virat Kohli</a> (c), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, MS Dhoni (wk), KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami&nbsp;

New Zealand:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-expects-as-new-zealand-bid-for-world-cup-semi-final-upset-234174">Kane Williamson</a> (c), Ross Taylor, Martin Guptill, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Colin Munro, James Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee.

Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday sent good wishes to the Indian cricket team, ahead of their semi-final clash against New Zealand in the ongoing ICC Mes Cricket World Cup.

Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday sent good wishes to the Indian cricket team, ahead of their semi-final clash against New Zealand in the ongoing ICC Mes Cricket World Cup. "I have sent my good wishes to the Indian cricket team and I am hopeful they will perform well," Rijiju told ANI. India have won the World Cup twice (1983 and 2011) whereas New Zealand are yet to lift the trophy. The Men in Blue finished the group stage at the top of the standings with 15 points, whereas New Zealand finished fourth with 11 from nine matches each. India would enter the semi-finals with winning momentum behind their back as they won their last two matches. On the other hand, the Kiwi side have lost their last two matches and they would look to change their fortunes around.India will take on New Zealand in the semi-final match later in the day. Following are the squads: India: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, MS Dhoni (wk), KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Martin Guptill, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Colin Munro, James Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju sends good wishes to team India ahead of semi-final vs New Zealand

India head coach, Ravi Shastri, lauded team India's performance ahead of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231"> India-New Zealand semi-final</a> match on Tuesday in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

In a video posted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Twitter, Shastri praised Indian players for their brilliant performance in the tournament.

Shastri hailed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharma-is-the-best-odi-player-says-virat-kohli-234035">Rohit Sharma</a> and said that he is one of the greatest ODI players. The 32-year-old Indian batsman has been in great form in the World Cup so far scoring 647 runs from eight innings. Sharma is the only batsman who has scored five centuries in the ongoing tournament.

He has broken Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara's record for scoring the most centuries in a single edition of the World Cup. Sharma has been providing a steady start to the Indian innings and he has the ability to accelerate when required.

"He is one of the greatest ODI players, whether he has scored runs in the competition or not. Just seeing his records over the year, three double hundreds in ODI, no one has done that and he is been really consistent for India," Shastri said.

Shastri further praised India bowlers for their spirited performance in the World Cup so far.

He complimented Mohammad Shami's bowling spell against Afghanistan where he clinched a hat-trick.

"Chahal has got a great temperament as he attacks the batsmen and looks for a wicket, that was the need of the hour. The team that improved like hell, Afghanistan. The match went down to the wire and you needed something special and Shami delivered for us," he said.

Speaking about the need to have good bowlers, he said,&nbsp;"In this format of the game, we got to have good death bowlers who can take wickets and restrict the opponent, and in Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar we got two good ones," he added.

Shastri hailed all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-amazing-to-have-a-cricketer-like-hardik-pandya-says-virat-kohli-233666&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiF4av1tKfjAhW0mOYKHeU4BqIQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1q7Q01Mc6NVhrzrStvptg-">Hardik Pandya</a> and said he is one who can bat and can also deliver 10 overs when required.

"He has come along as a bowler, we are getting full 10 overs out of him. He reads the condition well, knows where to use the off-cutters and the slow bouncers. So, his reading of the game is good which is a massive help for the side when you have the batsman as flamboyant as him who can also bowl," Shashtri said.

Shastri concluded and said our job is to get out and perform as an individual and as a team.

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"I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> coach Ravi Shastri talks through each of India's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> matches before the crunch semi-final clash against New Zealand. <a href="https://t.co/I1HCDzfpPo">pic.twitter.com/I1HCDzfpPo</a>
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"I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours. Nothing else to worry about. Our job is to get out there and do our job, as an individual and as a team," he said.

India will take on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-overcast-clouds-rain-expected-at-manchester-ahead-of-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-234185">New Zealand</a> in the semi-final match later in the day.

India head coach, Ravi Shastri, lauded team India's performance ahead of the India-New Zealand semi-final match on Tuesday in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

India head coach, Ravi Shastri, lauded team India's performance ahead of the India-New Zealand semi-final match on Tuesday in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. In a video posted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Twitter, Shastri praised Indian players for their brilliant performance in the tournament. Shastri hailed Rohit Sharma and said that he is one of the greatest ODI players. The 32-year-old Indian batsman has been in great form in the World Cup so far scoring 647 runs from eight innings. Sharma is the only batsman who has scored five centuries in the ongoing tournament. He has broken Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara's record for scoring the most centuries in a single edition of the World Cup. Sharma has been providing a steady start to the Indian innings and he has the ability to accelerate when required. "He is one of the greatest ODI players, whether he has scored runs in the competition or not. Just seeing his records over the year, three double hundreds in ODI, no one has done that and he is been really consistent for India," Shastri said. Shastri further praised India bowlers for their spirited performance in the World Cup so far. He complimented Mohammad Shami's bowling spell against Afghanistan where he clinched a hat-trick. "Chahal has got a great temperament as he attacks the batsmen and looks for a wicket, that was the need of the hour. The team that improved like hell, Afghanistan. The match went down to the wire and you needed something special and Shami delivered for us," he said. Speaking about the need to have good bowlers, he said, "In this format of the game, we got to have good death bowlers who can take wickets and restrict the opponent, and in Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar we got two good ones," he added. Shastri hailed all-rounder Hardik Pandya and said he is one who can bat and can also deliver 10 overs when required. "He has come along as a bowler, we are getting full 10 overs out of him. He reads the condition well, knows where to use the off-cutters and the slow bouncers. So, his reading of the game is good which is a massive help for the side when you have the batsman as flamboyant as him who can also bowl," Shashtri said. Shastri concluded and said our job is to get out and perform as an individual and as a team. "I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours."#TeamIndia coach Ravi Shastri talks through each of India's #CWC19 matches before the crunch semi-final clash against New Zealand. pic.twitter.com/I1HCDzfpPo — ICC (@ICC) July 9, 2019 × "I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours. Nothing else to worry about. Our job is to get out there and do our job, as an individual and as a team," he said. India will take on New Zealand in the semi-final match later in the day.

World Cup: Coach Ravi Shastri backs team India ahead of clash vs New Zealand

Indian wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni will celebrate his 38th birthday on July 7.

The apex cricketing body, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday eulogised the player, calling him a person who changed the face of Indian cricket.

Dhoni has won all major cricketing accolades that one can achieve during their playing stint.

He is the only international captain to have won ICC 50-over World Cup, T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy. He even led India to the number one ranking in both Test and ODI formats.

He walked away with the Indian Premier League (IPL) title thrice with Chennai.

"A name that changed the face of Indian cricket, A name inspiring millions across the globe, A name with an undeniable legacy, MS Dhoni - not just a name! #CWC19 | #TeamIndia," ICC tweeted with a video.

In the clip, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and bowler Jasprit Bumrah are seen recalling how <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/journey-from-ms-dhoni-to-captain-cool-161&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkvrmqi6DjAhUE63MBHWoIBewQFjACegQIEBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2SLlqaxgX--J40CzAww2s3">Dhoni </a>has influenced their cricketing skills.

"What you see from the outside is very different from how things happen within a person. He's always calm and composed, there's so much to learn from him. He was my captain and he will always be my captain. Our understanding has always been brilliant. I am always up for listening to his advice," Kohli said.

"When I came to the team in 2016, he was the captain. He's a calming influence on the team and he's always there to help," Bumrah said.

As the video begins, England wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler calls <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/even-ms-dhoni-makes-mistakes-kuldeep-yadav-teases-msd-for-his-rare-errors-218685&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkvrmqi6DjAhUE63MBHWoIBewQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Ts7_-YMyLQJAKHNw6CP0V">Dhoni </a>Mr Cool and says the cricketer has been his idol.

"Obviously a fellow wicket-keeper, he has been my idol growing up. Mr Cool, I love his persona on the field, he has got lightning-fast hands behind the stumps, he looks very calm when he bats. He is a huge ambassador for the game and I am a huge MS Dhoni fan, Jos Buttler says in the video.

England`s all-rounder Ben Stokes heaped praise on Dhoni and said no one will ever be as good as him. Stokes had played alongside Dhoni for the Indian Premier League franchise Pune.

"One of the greats of the game, phenomenal wicket-keeper. I don't think anyone will be as good as him," Ben Stokes said.

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🔹 A name that changed the face of Indian cricket 
🔹 A name inspiring millions across the globe 
🔹 A name with an undeniable legacy 
 
MS Dhoni – not just a name! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/cDbBk5ZHkN">pic.twitter.com/cDbBk5ZHkN</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1147369582392295424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Considered as India's best finisher, Dhoni has been facing severe criticism for his baffling batting approach against England in the World Cup match on June 30.

The player was not able to strike big blows in the match against Bangladesh as well.

So far, Dhoni has 223 runs in the tournament and is hoped to spring a good performance with the bat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-44-sri-lanka-vs-india-233528">against Sri Lanka</a>.

Indian wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni will celebrate his 38th birthday on July 7. The apex cricketing body, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday eulogised the player, calling him a person who changed the face of Indian cricket.

Indian wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni will celebrate his 38th birthday on July 7. The apex cricketing body, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday eulogised the player, calling him a person who changed the face of Indian cricket. Dhoni has won all major cricketing accolades that one can achieve during their playing stint. He is the only international captain to have won ICC 50-over World Cup, T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy. He even led India to the number one ranking in both Test and ODI formats. He walked away with the Indian Premier League (IPL) title thrice with Chennai. "A name that changed the face of Indian cricket, A name inspiring millions across the globe, A name with an undeniable legacy, MS Dhoni - not just a name! #CWC19 | #TeamIndia," ICC tweeted with a video. In the clip, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and bowler Jasprit Bumrah are seen recalling how Dhoni has influenced their cricketing skills. "What you see from the outside is very different from how things happen within a person. He's always calm and composed, there's so much to learn from him. He was my captain and he will always be my captain. Our understanding has always been brilliant. I am always up for listening to his advice," Kohli said. "When I came to the team in 2016, he was the captain. He's a calming influence on the team and he's always there to help," Bumrah said. As the video begins, England wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler calls Dhoni Mr Cool and says the cricketer has been his idol. "Obviously a fellow wicket-keeper, he has been my idol growing up. Mr Cool, I love his persona on the field, he has got lightning-fast hands behind the stumps, he looks very calm when he bats. He is a huge ambassador for the game and I am a huge MS Dhoni fan, Jos Buttler says in the video. England`s all-rounder Ben Stokes heaped praise on Dhoni and said no one will ever be as good as him. Stokes had played alongside Dhoni for the Indian Premier League franchise Pune. "One of the greats of the game, phenomenal wicket-keeper. I don't think anyone will be as good as him," Ben Stokes said. 🔹 A name that changed the face of Indian cricket 🔹 A name inspiring millions across the globe 🔹 A name with an undeniable legacy MS Dhoni – not just a name! #CWC19 | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/cDbBk5ZHkN — ICC (@ICC) July 6, 2019 × Considered as India's best finisher, Dhoni has been facing severe criticism for his baffling batting approach against England in the World Cup match on June 30. The player was not able to strike big blows in the match against Bangladesh as well. So far, Dhoni has 223 runs in the tournament and is hoped to spring a good performance with the bat against Sri Lanka.

ICC tweets on MS Dhoni, calls him 'name that changed face of Indian cricket'

South Africa spinner <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/close-all-exit-doors-imran-tahirs-unique-celebration-allows-meme-experts-to-show-creativity-229778&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiyqdmBjaDjAhUf73MBHTF-CgIQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2FAt93A48UzZlv8YY39RH5">Imran Tahir</a> will be wearing the Proteas ODI jersey for the last time when the team steps on the field to play against Australia in their last match of the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Saturday.

After the match against Australia, he will retire from the ODI cricket.

The 40-year-old made his ODI debut in the year 2011 World Cup against West Indies in Delhi and he went on to scalp four wickets.

In his eight-year-long ODI career, the leg-spinner has featured in 106 ODIs for Proteas and has bagged 172 wickets.

His career-best figures till now are of 7/45 against West Indies in 2016.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-respect-steve-smith-david-warner-says-imran-tahir-ahead-south-africa-australia-clash-233328&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiyqdmBjaDjAhUf73MBHTF-CgIQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2q6i8KwnZPGjn35nFfPhCN">Tahir </a>announced his retirement in a Twitter post on Friday and wrote, "Quite an emotional moment that I will be stepping on to the field one last time for an ODI for Cricket South Africa wholeheartedly thanking everyone who stood with me during my entire career and special thanks for Cricket South Africa to make my dream a reality. Will give it all I have tomorrow."

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Quite an emotional moment that I will be stepping on to the field one last time for an odi for <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialCSA</a> wholeheartedly thanking everyone who stood with me during my entire career and special thanks for <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialCSA</a> to make my dream a reality.Will give it all I have tomm
— Imran Tahir (@ImranTahirSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranTahirSA/status/1147198658032668678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the ongoing World Cup, Tahir has managed to take 10 wickets.

South Africa, on the other hand, are out of the tournament as they won only two games out of eight. They were the first team to be knocked out from the semi-final contention.

Proteas did not get a good start as they lost their first three matches and their game against the West Indies was washed out.

South Africa could not recover from there and only managed to win against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.

As of now, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/imran-tahir-creates-two-records-in-world-cup-match-against-england-222856&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiyqdmBjaDjAhUf73MBHTF-CgIQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw06kxn0x5aj3xlvQOLbQ-Te">Tahir </a>has not cleared anything about his participation in the other formats of cricket.

South Africa spinner Imran Tahir will be wearing the Proteas ODI jersey for the last time when the team steps on the field to play against Australia in their last match of the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Saturday.

South Africa spinner Imran Tahir will be wearing the Proteas ODI jersey for the last time when the team steps on the field to play against Australia in their last match of the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Saturday. After the match against Australia, he will retire from the ODI cricket. The 40-year-old made his ODI debut in the year 2011 World Cup against West Indies in Delhi and he went on to scalp four wickets. In his eight-year-long ODI career, the leg-spinner has featured in 106 ODIs for Proteas and has bagged 172 wickets. His career-best figures till now are of 7/45 against West Indies in 2016. Tahir announced his retirement in a Twitter post on Friday and wrote, "Quite an emotional moment that I will be stepping on to the field one last time for an ODI for Cricket South Africa wholeheartedly thanking everyone who stood with me during my entire career and special thanks for Cricket South Africa to make my dream a reality. Will give it all I have tomorrow." Quite an emotional moment that I will be stepping on to the field one last time for an odi for @OfficialCSA wholeheartedly thanking everyone who stood with me during my entire career and special thanks for @OfficialCSA to make my dream a reality.Will give it all I have tomm — Imran Tahir (@ImranTahirSA) July 5, 2019 × In the ongoing World Cup, Tahir has managed to take 10 wickets. South Africa, on the other hand, are out of the tournament as they won only two games out of eight. They were the first team to be knocked out from the semi-final contention. Proteas did not get a good start as they lost their first three matches and their game against the West Indies was washed out. South Africa could not recover from there and only managed to win against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. As of now, Tahir has not cleared anything about his participation in the other formats of cricket.

Imran Tahir to retire from ODIs after South Africa-Australia clash

West Indies won the battle of the Cricket World Cup's basement dwellers, beating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gulbadin-naib-apologises-to-fans-for-afghanistans-poor-world-cup-performance-233187">Afghanistan </a>by 23 runs in their final group match at Headingley on Thursday.

Chris Gayle managed only seven runs in his final World Cup appearance but Shai Hope capitalised on an early reprieve to score 77 and help the eliminated Caribbean side to 311-6 after electing to bat.

While Gayle disappointed, 18-year-old Ikram Alikhil top-scored for Afghanistan with a career-best 86 before falling to the 39-year-old part-time spinner from Jamaica.

Afghanistan were all out for 288 in exactly 50 overs - their highest score in the World Cup - to finish their campaign with nine straight defeats, denying their West Indian coach Phil Simmons a winning send-off.

The match against the tournament's weakest side was an opportunity for Gayle to produce a special performance and to break Brian Lara's West Indies record for 10,348 ODI runs.

But the prolific left-handed opener failed to take it, slashing at a wide Dawlat Zadran delivery to be caught behind.

He finished his last World Cup with only one half-century and remains just 10 runs behind Lara's record.

"It's been a privilege and honour to represent West Indies in five World Cups but disappointed to end without making it to the final four," Gayle said after the victory.

"I don't intend to put my body on the risk, I've been struggling. This is the last one, definitely,"

West Indies could have been in bigger trouble but Rashid Khan dropped a sitter at mid-wicket off Zadran when Hope was on five.

By the time Rashid caught him, at mid-wicket in the 38th over, Hope had laid a strong foundation for a 300-plus total.

Opener Evin Lewis celebrated his return to the team with 58 and Nicholas Pooran also made 58, his third 50-plus score of the tournament.

Skipper Jason Holder clobbered four sixes in his 45 off 34 balls to help the team past the 300-mark.

Dropped catches, squandered run-out opportunity and misfields marred Afghanistan's fielding, best illustrated in the final over of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-vs-sri-lanka-rihanna-sprinkles-stardust-at-world-cup-232147&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiYyKzOmJ3jAhVD63MBHcXMCQwQFjABegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2ZLFGrfj9jSd6lZ3wWN0d-">West Indies</a> innings.

Afghan captain Gulbadin Naib got himself under a skier at long-off but flinched at the last moment, possibly losing the ball in sunlight, allowing what would have been a regulation catch to go for a boundary.

Naib could not impress with the bat either and fell for eight.

Shah and Alikhil refused to throw in the towel, though, frustrating the West Indies attack with a 133-run partnership.

Carlos Brathwaite (4-63) dismissed Shah as he and Kemar Roach (3-37) snuffed out Afghan hopes of an unlikely victory.

"Big stage, in the end, it was tough to chase 300-plus but I'm happy with the batting performance," Naib said afterwards.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-keeper-mohammad-shahzad-ruled-out-of-world-cup-2019-225176&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTxOzmmJ3jAhXJ4HMBHUsWBv8QFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qTHO9j72XTfEz-2HmYA8_">Alikhil </a>is a youngster, he showed his class today. We have many such talented youngsters back home," Naib said.

"Fitness is a big issue, the boys are struggling. Also pressure, we need to control our nerves. We can work even more on our skills to prove ourselves," added Naib.

West Indies won the battle of the Cricket World Cup's basement dwellers, beating Afghanistan by 23 runs in their final group match at Headingley on Thursday. Chris Gayle managed only seven runs in his final World Cup appearance but Shai Hope capitalised on an early reprieve to score 77 and help the eliminated Caribbean side to 311-6 after electing to bat.

West Indies won the battle of the Cricket World Cup's basement dwellers, beating Afghanistan by 23 runs in their final group match at Headingley on Thursday. Chris Gayle managed only seven runs in his final World Cup appearance but Shai Hope capitalised on an early reprieve to score 77 and help the eliminated Caribbean side to 311-6 after electing to bat. While Gayle disappointed, 18-year-old Ikram Alikhil top-scored for Afghanistan with a career-best 86 before falling to the 39-year-old part-time spinner from Jamaica. Afghanistan were all out for 288 in exactly 50 overs - their highest score in the World Cup - to finish their campaign with nine straight defeats, denying their West Indian coach Phil Simmons a winning send-off. The match against the tournament's weakest side was an opportunity for Gayle to produce a special performance and to break Brian Lara's West Indies record for 10,348 ODI runs. But the prolific left-handed opener failed to take it, slashing at a wide Dawlat Zadran delivery to be caught behind. He finished his last World Cup with only one half-century and remains just 10 runs behind Lara's record. "It's been a privilege and honour to represent West Indies in five World Cups but disappointed to end without making it to the final four," Gayle said after the victory. "I don't intend to put my body on the risk, I've been struggling. This is the last one, definitely," West Indies could have been in bigger trouble but Rashid Khan dropped a sitter at mid-wicket off Zadran when Hope was on five. By the time Rashid caught him, at mid-wicket in the 38th over, Hope had laid a strong foundation for a 300-plus total. Opener Evin Lewis celebrated his return to the team with 58 and Nicholas Pooran also made 58, his third 50-plus score of the tournament. Skipper Jason Holder clobbered four sixes in his 45 off 34 balls to help the team past the 300-mark. Dropped catches, squandered run-out opportunity and misfields marred Afghanistan's fielding, best illustrated in the final over of the West Indies innings. Afghan captain Gulbadin Naib got himself under a skier at long-off but flinched at the last moment, possibly losing the ball in sunlight, allowing what would have been a regulation catch to go for a boundary. Naib could not impress with the bat either and fell for eight. Shah and Alikhil refused to throw in the towel, though, frustrating the West Indies attack with a 133-run partnership. Carlos Brathwaite (4-63) dismissed Shah as he and Kemar Roach (3-37) snuffed out Afghan hopes of an unlikely victory. "Big stage, in the end, it was tough to chase 300-plus but I'm happy with the batting performance," Naib said afterwards. "Alikhil is a youngster, he showed his class today. We have many such talented youngsters back home," Naib said. "Fitness is a big issue, the boys are struggling. Also pressure, we need to control our nerves. We can work even more on our skills to prove ourselves," added Naib.

Chris Gayle fails to break Brian Lara's record in World Cup swansong

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib apologised to his team's fans after their winless campaign in the Cricket World Cup, saying the side's big guns had let them down.

Few had expected <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-coach-phil-simmons-outburst-exposes-troubles-in-afghanistan-team-228705&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjX346UlZ3jAhUHL48KHT5NAgsQFjAGegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3HhVIpr5yzcFPHl7TsvGCr">Afghanistan </a>to make it through to the semi-final stage in only their second World Cup appearance, and the team may also have been unsettled by a late leadership change, with Naib replacing Asghar Afghan as their one-day captain.

But they were still touted as a potential giant-killer capable of pulling off an occasional upset, thanks to a spin-heavy attack including Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.

"I'm very disappointed with the performance of the team. In each and every game we made a lot of mistakes. We did not play our natural cricket," Naib said after Thursday's defeat against West Indies.

Rashid, currently the number three ranked ODI bowler, had a particularly underwhelming tournament, the low point being the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-afghanistan-by-150-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-228503&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjX346UlZ3jAhUHL48KHT5NAgsQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2EWBEoVinKab6DRbgte7av">match against England</a> when the leg-spinner was smashed for 110 runs off just nine overs - the worst bowling figures in World Cup history.

"We have big names in our time like Nabi, Rashid, Mujeeb...everyone expected them to perform like they did in the last two, three years.''

"Rashid has contributed 60 per cent in our wins. I also expected a lot from him. But it's a game of cricket, he gave his 100 per cent, but you can say he has had bad luck," Gulbadin said.

Afghanistan's repeated tinkering with their batting order also hurt the side, who finished with nine defeats in as many matches.

They fielded Ikram Alikhil between seven to nine in the first few matches, before promoting him to number three on Thursday, when the 18-year-old top-scored for them with a fearless 86.

"I learnt a lot in this tournament...I agree we did not give anyone proper chance with a fixed place in the batting order," said Naib.

"Even I was batting on seven or eight but jumped in as an opener in the last four-five games because the team needed it," he said.

"But I think it's not about a fixed position. If you play with a big heart, any position will suit you," said Naib.

Naib said fitness was a big issue with the team and they needed better preparation to make any impact in an international tournament.

"We could not give our 100 per cent and fulfil expectations of the people of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-shahzad-blames-afghanistan-cricket-board-for-his-withdrawal-from-world-cup-squad-226086&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjX346UlZ3jAhUHL48KHT5NAgsQFjAEegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TfOODoS3ZW1VgvX-OK5qX">Afghanistan</a>. I say sorry to my fans and my country," he said.

Two-times champions West Indies bowed out of the tournament they had entered as a possible dark horse with just two wins from their nine group matches.

Opener Chris Gayle's World Cup swansong, however, provided a glimpse of a better future as Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer, aged between 22 and 25, impressed with the bat.

"Definitely a learning experience, something I'll never forget," said Hope, who won the man-of-the-match award for his 77.

"I'm sure we're going to use this as basically a platform for the next four years. And hopefully, we can have something stronger and build more momentum early in the tournament and take it on to the semis and the final," added Hope.

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib apologised to his team's fans after their winless campaign in the Cricket World Cup, saying the side's big guns had let them down.

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib apologised to his team's fans after their winless campaign in the Cricket World Cup, saying the side's big guns had let them down. Few had expected Afghanistan to make it through to the semi-final stage in only their second World Cup appearance, and the team may also have been unsettled by a late leadership change, with Naib replacing Asghar Afghan as their one-day captain. But they were still touted as a potential giant-killer capable of pulling off an occasional upset, thanks to a spin-heavy attack including Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. "I'm very disappointed with the performance of the team. In each and every game we made a lot of mistakes. We did not play our natural cricket," Naib said after Thursday's defeat against West Indies. Rashid, currently the number three ranked ODI bowler, had a particularly underwhelming tournament, the low point being the match against England when the leg-spinner was smashed for 110 runs off just nine overs - the worst bowling figures in World Cup history. "We have big names in our time like Nabi, Rashid, Mujeeb...everyone expected them to perform like they did in the last two, three years.'' "Rashid has contributed 60 per cent in our wins. I also expected a lot from him. But it's a game of cricket, he gave his 100 per cent, but you can say he has had bad luck," Gulbadin said. Afghanistan's repeated tinkering with their batting order also hurt the side, who finished with nine defeats in as many matches. They fielded Ikram Alikhil between seven to nine in the first few matches, before promoting him to number three on Thursday, when the 18-year-old top-scored for them with a fearless 86. "I learnt a lot in this tournament...I agree we did not give anyone proper chance with a fixed place in the batting order," said Naib. "Even I was batting on seven or eight but jumped in as an opener in the last four-five games because the team needed it," he said. "But I think it's not about a fixed position. If you play with a big heart, any position will suit you," said Naib. Naib said fitness was a big issue with the team and they needed better preparation to make any impact in an international tournament. "We could not give our 100 per cent and fulfil expectations of the people of Afghanistan. I say sorry to my fans and my country," he said. Two-times champions West Indies bowed out of the tournament they had entered as a possible dark horse with just two wins from their nine group matches. Opener Chris Gayle's World Cup swansong, however, provided a glimpse of a better future as Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer, aged between 22 and 25, impressed with the bat. "Definitely a learning experience, something I'll never forget," said Hope, who won the man-of-the-match award for his 77. "I'm sure we're going to use this as basically a platform for the next four years. And hopefully, we can have something stronger and build more momentum early in the tournament and take it on to the semis and the final," added Hope.

Gulbadin Naib apologises to fans for Afghanistan's poor World Cup performance

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed admitted his team need a miracle to qualify for the World Cup semi-finals as they prepare for their final league game against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-head-to-head-records-between-pakistan-and-bangladesh-233044">Bangladesh </a>at Lord's on Friday.

Pakistan requires an outlandishly big victory but if Bangladesh bat first, their chances of catching New Zealand will be gone.

"Obviously, we are here to win all the matches," said Sarfaraz, whose team have lost their past four one-day internationals against a fast-improving Bangladesh.

"We will do our best to win the last game as well to end on a high and we will do our best to achieve that but we need to be realistic, but if Allah helps then miracles can happen," he said.

"It's like you score 600, 500, 400 on a pitch then you think you can get the other team out for 50 and then win by a 316-run margin. If you think realistically, then we can only try. But the first real thing will be to win the match," Sarfaraz said.

Pakistan's highest total at the tournament is the 348-8 they made in their shock win over England. The host nation's 397-6 against Afghanistan is the best of the World Cup so far.

Sarfaraz said it had been tough to post big totals on the pitches being used in the tournament.

"If you look at the tournament then, realistically, the tournament is of 280-300 totals," said Sarfaraz.

"If you look at the pitches, they were not for free-scoring. They were tough for batting with spin and the ball was not coming onto the bat," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-may-get-tossed-out-of-world-cup-even-before-a-ball-is-bowled-in-bangladesh-match-232967">Pakistan </a>were shot out for a paltry 105 in their first match, with the West Indies winning in just 13.4 overs, meaning they took a huge hit on run rate.

They won just one of their first five matches, coming back strongly to beat South Africa, New Zealand and Afghanistan to sit fifth in the 10-team table.

But England's victory against New Zealand on Wednesday left them with a virtually impossible task.

Those two teams plus Australia and India will almost certainly be the four semi-finalists.

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed admitted his team need a miracle to qualify for the World Cup semi-finals as they prepare for their final league game against Bangladesh at Lord's on Friday.

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed admitted his team need a miracle to qualify for the World Cup semi-finals as they prepare for their final league game against Bangladesh at Lord's on Friday. Pakistan requires an outlandishly big victory but if Bangladesh bat first, their chances of catching New Zealand will be gone. "Obviously, we are here to win all the matches," said Sarfaraz, whose team have lost their past four one-day internationals against a fast-improving Bangladesh. "We will do our best to win the last game as well to end on a high and we will do our best to achieve that but we need to be realistic, but if Allah helps then miracles can happen," he said. "It's like you score 600, 500, 400 on a pitch then you think you can get the other team out for 50 and then win by a 316-run margin. If you think realistically, then we can only try. But the first real thing will be to win the match," Sarfaraz said. Pakistan's highest total at the tournament is the 348-8 they made in their shock win over England. The host nation's 397-6 against Afghanistan is the best of the World Cup so far. Sarfaraz said it had been tough to post big totals on the pitches being used in the tournament. "If you look at the tournament then, realistically, the tournament is of 280-300 totals," said Sarfaraz. "If you look at the pitches, they were not for free-scoring. They were tough for batting with spin and the ball was not coming onto the bat," he said. Pakistan were shot out for a paltry 105 in their first match, with the West Indies winning in just 13.4 overs, meaning they took a huge hit on run rate. They won just one of their first five matches, coming back strongly to beat South Africa, New Zealand and Afghanistan to sit fifth in the 10-team table. But England's victory against New Zealand on Wednesday left them with a virtually impossible task. Those two teams plus Australia and India will almost certainly be the four semi-finalists.

Pakistan will aim to score 500 runs against Bangladesh, says skipper Sarfaraz

Australia batsman Shaun Marsh has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup after suffering a broken arm while batting in the nets against team-mate Pat Cummins.

Thursday's Old Trafford training session, which took place two days before reigning champions <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-and-australia-are-standout-teams-says-clive-lloyd-232470&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi11u6IkZ3jAhUJpI8KHfQlAHUQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2_MOWgfsKv_zKd2MEkJ0gk">Australia's </a>final group game against South Africa at the Manchester ground, also saw all-rounder Glenn Maxwell struck a painful blow batting against left-arm quick Mitchell Starc.

No sooner had Maxwell been escorted away by medical staff after going down in pain when a rising delivery from Starc, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, reared up and hit him on the right forearm, than Marsh, batting in the same net, was struck on the wrist by Cummins.

Both players were sent to a hospital for scans, with left-hander Marsh subsequently ruled out, although Maxwell has not suffered any serious damage according to Australia coach Justin Langer.

One consolation for Australia is that 35-year-old left-hander Marsh, who will be replaced by Peter Handscomb, has become the squad's reserve batsman and has not featured in a World Cup match since he made three against Sri Lanka at the Oval last month.

The International Cricket Council confirmed Marsh's exit from the World Cup in a statement, saying its event technical committee had approved Handscomb as a replacement for Marsh for the remainder of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Langer said it was "shattering news" that Marsh's World Cup was over.

"Shaun Marsh has had scans on his right forearm after being struck while practising in the nets at training today," Langer said.

"Unfortunately, the scans have revealed Shaun has suffered a fracture to his forearm which will require surgery.''

"This is obviously shattering news for Shaun and the squad. Throughout this tournament, his spirit, professionalism and the way he has competed has been typically outstanding."

"We are right behind Shaun in his recovery and rehabilitation," the former Australia opener added.

Langer, explaining why Handscomb had been called up, said,&nbsp;"Pete is a like for like player, in terms of batting in the middle order, and he performed very well for us during our recent tours in India and the UAE."

Meanwhile, Langer was optimistic about Maxwell, saying,&nbsp;"We are hopeful he will be fit to perform for us on Saturday against South Africa."

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-mitchell-starc-five-for-trumps-boult-hat-trick-as-australia-beat-new-zealand-231633&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi11u6IkZ3jAhUJpI8KHfQlAHUQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3fPbL4Po_FNLTYzgzjEeXa">Australia </a>have a maximum of three World Cup games left to play, with the South Africa match coming ahead of next week's semi-finals and the final at Lord's on July 14.

Australia batsman Shaun Marsh has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup after suffering a broken arm while batting in the nets against team-mate Pat Cummins.

Australia batsman Shaun Marsh has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup after suffering a broken arm while batting in the nets against team-mate Pat Cummins. Thursday's Old Trafford training session, which took place two days before reigning champions Australia's final group game against South Africa at the Manchester ground, also saw all-rounder Glenn Maxwell struck a painful blow batting against left-arm quick Mitchell Starc. No sooner had Maxwell been escorted away by medical staff after going down in pain when a rising delivery from Starc, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, reared up and hit him on the right forearm, than Marsh, batting in the same net, was struck on the wrist by Cummins. Both players were sent to a hospital for scans, with left-hander Marsh subsequently ruled out, although Maxwell has not suffered any serious damage according to Australia coach Justin Langer. One consolation for Australia is that 35-year-old left-hander Marsh, who will be replaced by Peter Handscomb, has become the squad's reserve batsman and has not featured in a World Cup match since he made three against Sri Lanka at the Oval last month. The International Cricket Council confirmed Marsh's exit from the World Cup in a statement, saying its event technical committee had approved Handscomb as a replacement for Marsh for the remainder of the tournament. Meanwhile, Langer said it was "shattering news" that Marsh's World Cup was over. "Shaun Marsh has had scans on his right forearm after being struck while practising in the nets at training today," Langer said. "Unfortunately, the scans have revealed Shaun has suffered a fracture to his forearm which will require surgery.'' "This is obviously shattering news for Shaun and the squad. Throughout this tournament, his spirit, professionalism and the way he has competed has been typically outstanding." "We are right behind Shaun in his recovery and rehabilitation," the former Australia opener added. Langer, explaining why Handscomb had been called up, said, "Pete is a like for like player, in terms of batting in the middle order, and he performed very well for us during our recent tours in India and the UAE." Meanwhile, Langer was optimistic about Maxwell, saying, "We are hopeful he will be fit to perform for us on Saturday against South Africa." Australia have a maximum of three World Cup games left to play, with the South Africa match coming ahead of next week's semi-finals and the final at Lord's on July 14.

Australia's Shaun Marsh ruled out of World Cup; Peter Handscomb named replacement

&nbsp;Amid English fans jeering Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-playing-their-best-cricket-says-sri-lankas-angelo-mathews-233248">World Cup</a>, South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lent his support to the duo saying that they have served their punishment and he respects them.

"We haven't spoken about it. They have served their punishment. They are world-beaters and they have my respect. Everyone makes mistakes ... I have made mistakes in my life too," Tahir said.

In March last year, when Australia toured to South Africa for a four-match Test series, Smith and Warner were found guilty of tampering the ball and consequently, were handed a year-long ban.

After the incident, this is the first time when <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-david-warner-need-to-have-thick-skin-to-shine-at-world-cup-says-brett-lee-222826&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji5tPJ653jAhWu6XMBHXUTAwsQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Zx2BC2Ni8i6FRp-KxKes0">Smith and Warner</a> will compete against the Proteas.

Australia have already reached in the semi-finals while South Africa have already been knocked out from the semi-finals race and will be playing their last match in this edition of the quadrennial tournament.

Although the match will not be able to change South Africa's fortune in the premier tournament, the Proteas can try to end their campaign with a win.

When asked if there would be sledging during the match, Tahir said,&nbsp;"Not from us, but if it comes from them then we won`t hold back."South Africa will face Australia on July 6.

Amid English fans jeering Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner during the World Cup, South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lent his support to the duo saying that they have served their punishment and he respects them.

Amid English fans jeering Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner during the World Cup, South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lent his support to the duo saying that they have served their punishment and he respects them. "We haven't spoken about it. They have served their punishment. They are world-beaters and they have my respect. Everyone makes mistakes ... I have made mistakes in my life too," Tahir said. In March last year, when Australia toured to South Africa for a four-match Test series, Smith and Warner were found guilty of tampering the ball and consequently, were handed a year-long ban. After the incident, this is the first time when Smith and Warner will compete against the Proteas. Australia have already reached in the semi-finals while South Africa have already been knocked out from the semi-finals race and will be playing their last match in this edition of the quadrennial tournament. Although the match will not be able to change South Africa's fortune in the premier tournament, the Proteas can try to end their campaign with a win. When asked if there would be sledging during the match, Tahir said, "Not from us, but if it comes from them then we won`t hold back."South Africa will face Australia on July 6.

I respect Steve Smith, David Warner, says Imran Tahir ahead South Africa-Australia clash

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-gayle-fails-to-break-brian-laras-record-in-world-cup-swansong-233191">West Indies</a> should follow England's example to return stronger in the next World Cup, all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite said after the two-time champions exited the tournament with only two victories from nine matches.

Jason Holder and his men entered the tournament as a potential dark horse but blew hot and cold in between wins in their opener against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-will-aim-to-score-500-runs-against-bangladesh-says-skipper-sarfaraz-233173">Pakistan </a>and their final match against Afghanistan.

Despite their early exit, the emergence of batsmen Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer have made Caribbean fans optimistic about the team's future.

Brathwaite wants them to imitate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-have-a-point-to-prove-in-world-cup-semis-says-trevor-bayliss-233207">England </a>who have transformed themselves after crashing out of the 2015 World Cup, acquiring an array of stroke makers who routinely help the team to 300-plus totals.

"As a team, we need to regroup," Brathwaite, who nearly pulled off a thrilling victory against New Zealand with a spectacular century, told reporters.''

"We have some time off, some aching bodies will get time to recuperate and then it's about finding ways and combinations to compete and win series.''

"Hopefully we can take that winning mentality into the next World Cup. If you look at 2015 and what England did after the World Cup, they have built straight up to the 2019 World Cup and it's paying dividends," Brathwaite said.

England, who entered the tournament as the top-ranked ODI team but have since slipped to the second place, have joined Australia and India in the semi-finals with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ross-taylor-slams-skipper-kane-williamsons-critics-ahead-of-new-zealand-vs-england-clash-232639">New Zealand</a> set to complete the last four line-ups.

"I don't know off the field what the plans are for the 2023 World Cup but I think it's something we need to look at and build towards that," Brathwaite said.

Overall, the all-rounder said, it was an experience that West Indies must capitalise on to return stronger as a team.

"There is disappointment in the changing rooms at not making the final four but we're thankful for the good performances," he said.

"(Quick) Sheldon Cottrell had a fantastic tournament and at times like these, it's easy to let those things go missing.''

"But as a team we came together, we highlighted the guys that we thought had good performances and the guys that didn't will take the lessons and come back from it so we can start to win bilateral series leading up to the next World Cup," Brathwaite added.

West Indies should follow England's example to return stronger in the next World Cup, all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite said after the two-time champions exited the tournament with only two victories from nine matches.

West Indies should follow England's example to return stronger in the next World Cup, all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite said after the two-time champions exited the tournament with only two victories from nine matches. Jason Holder and his men entered the tournament as a potential dark horse but blew hot and cold in between wins in their opener against Pakistan and their final match against Afghanistan. Despite their early exit, the emergence of batsmen Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer have made Caribbean fans optimistic about the team's future. Brathwaite wants them to imitate England who have transformed themselves after crashing out of the 2015 World Cup, acquiring an array of stroke makers who routinely help the team to 300-plus totals. "As a team, we need to regroup," Brathwaite, who nearly pulled off a thrilling victory against New Zealand with a spectacular century, told reporters.'' "We have some time off, some aching bodies will get time to recuperate and then it's about finding ways and combinations to compete and win series.'' "Hopefully we can take that winning mentality into the next World Cup. If you look at 2015 and what England did after the World Cup, they have built straight up to the 2019 World Cup and it's paying dividends," Brathwaite said. England, who entered the tournament as the top-ranked ODI team but have since slipped to the second place, have joined Australia and India in the semi-finals with New Zealand set to complete the last four line-ups. "I don't know off the field what the plans are for the 2023 World Cup but I think it's something we need to look at and build towards that," Brathwaite said. Overall, the all-rounder said, it was an experience that West Indies must capitalise on to return stronger as a team. "There is disappointment in the changing rooms at not making the final four but we're thankful for the good performances," he said. "(Quick) Sheldon Cottrell had a fantastic tournament and at times like these, it's easy to let those things go missing.'' "But as a team we came together, we highlighted the guys that we thought had good performances and the guys that didn't will take the lessons and come back from it so we can start to win bilateral series leading up to the next World Cup," Brathwaite added.

Carlos Brathwaite wants West Indies to regroup, follow England's example

Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews stated that his team has failed to display consistent performance in the ongoing ICC Men's World Cup on Thursday.

Mathews'&nbsp;remark came prior to their next match against India.

According to him <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-dhananjaya-de-silva-feels-sri-lanka-are-unbeatable-on-slow-pitches-229539&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwib_-a5sp3jAhVIPI8KHQz2BEMQFjAFegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1t1UKSESDFNCk4AbY1XtdE">Sri Lanka</a> played well in patches but not that well to qualify to the semis.

The 32-year-old did not look happy with his performance in the tournament so far as he was only able to score 131 runs from six games so far.

"We played well in patches but not very well to make it to the semi-finals. I am disappointed with my performance too, I was only able to get the one big score. Especially in the first three games, I missed out including the middle order. I could have done a lot better than what I did so far," Mattews told reporters.

The 1996 World Cup champions and 2011 runners-up had hard luck in the tournament. This World Cup did not go well for Sri Lanka as their two games were called off due to rain and they only have eight points.

The team defeated Afghanistan, England, and the West Indies. Sri Lanka are at the sixth position of the tournament standings.

"It has been disappointing World Cup for Sri Lanka but there were few positives also. The three wins that we had was pretty good but unfortunately two games were rained out and we got only one point each," Mattews said.

When asked about his retirement plan, Mathews stated that he wants to pursue cricket for a few more years and his goal is to start bowling as soon as he can. He wants to add his contribution to the bowling department for the team.

"I am still 32-years-old and want to play a few more years. I would like to start bowling as soon as I can because that can contribute to the team as well," he said.

Mathews opined that the game against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-uses-experience-as-all-rounder-to-outwit-players-says-india-skipper-virat-kohli-232794">India </a>will be tough as Men in Blue are playing their best cricket. India are at the second spot of the team&nbsp;standings with 13 points, they only lost one match out of their eight games.

They were the second to qualify for the semis after Australia.

"It is going to be the tough game for us as they are playing their best cricket. We will try to finish off really well," Mathews concluded.

Sri Lanka will take on India in their last game of the World Cup on July 6.

Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews stated that his team has failed to display consistent performance in the ongoing ICC Men's World Cup on Thursday. Mathews' remark came prior to their next match against India.

Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews stated that his team has failed to display consistent performance in the ongoing ICC Men's World Cup on Thursday. Mathews' remark came prior to their next match against India. According to him Sri Lanka played well in patches but not that well to qualify to the semis. The 32-year-old did not look happy with his performance in the tournament so far as he was only able to score 131 runs from six games so far. "We played well in patches but not very well to make it to the semi-finals. I am disappointed with my performance too, I was only able to get the one big score. Especially in the first three games, I missed out including the middle order. I could have done a lot better than what I did so far," Mattews told reporters. The 1996 World Cup champions and 2011 runners-up had hard luck in the tournament. This World Cup did not go well for Sri Lanka as their two games were called off due to rain and they only have eight points. The team defeated Afghanistan, England, and the West Indies. Sri Lanka are at the sixth position of the tournament standings. "It has been disappointing World Cup for Sri Lanka but there were few positives also. The three wins that we had was pretty good but unfortunately two games were rained out and we got only one point each," Mattews said. When asked about his retirement plan, Mathews stated that he wants to pursue cricket for a few more years and his goal is to start bowling as soon as he can. He wants to add his contribution to the bowling department for the team. "I am still 32-years-old and want to play a few more years. I would like to start bowling as soon as I can because that can contribute to the team as well," he said. Mathews opined that the game against India will be tough as Men in Blue are playing their best cricket. India are at the second spot of the team standings with 13 points, they only lost one match out of their eight games. They were the second to qualify for the semis after Australia. "It is going to be the tough game for us as they are playing their best cricket. We will try to finish off really well," Mathews concluded. Sri Lanka will take on India in their last game of the World Cup on July 6.

India are playing their best cricket, says Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson lamented the lack of significant partnerships on a difficult track after their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-41-england-vs-new-zealand-232709">crushing defeat by England</a> in their final group match of the Cricket World Cup on Wednesday.

Chasing 306 for a victory that would have assured them a place in the semi-finals, New Zealand lost both their openers cheaply and the wheels came off their innings when Williamson and Ross Taylor both were run out in successive overs.

Tom Latham made a fighting 57 but New Zealand were still shot out for 186 in 45 overs.

"Going into that second half, we just needed a couple of big partnerships, certainly from the top order and it wasn't there," said Williamson, who felt the track got tough to bat on midway through the England innings.''

"By no means was it an easy surface to try and gain momentum but at the same time it was important as a batting unit we were able to try and take the game to a position where you might give yourself a chance to win it, but we weren't able to do that," said Williamson.

Electing to bat, England got a flying start from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-really-pleased-with-my-performance-says-jonny-bairstow-after-smashing-century-232822">Jonny Bairstow</a> and Jason Roy to be 194-1 in 30 overs before the New Zealand bowlers halted their progress to restrict the hosts to 305-8.

England captain Eoin Morgan said his team had played some of their best cricket in their last two group games to make the semi-finals of the World Cup after 27 years.

Back-to-back defeats by Sri Lanka and Australia had jeopardised England's semi-final prospects but Morgan's men bounced back in style, ending India's unbeaten run in Birmingham and then crushing New Zealand to storm into the last four.

A common factor in both the victories was the flying start England got from openers Jonny Bairstow, who smashed his second successive century on Wednesday, and Jason Roy who made a roaring return from a hamstring injury in the match against India.

"We bat all the way down but those two are pushing the ceiling as to what guys can normally do," Morgan said.

More than the runs they raise, Morgan was pleased with how the openers complemented each other.

"Jonny got off to a flyer, Jason was quite slow to start and then caught up and Jonny slowed down.

"It was really brilliant to watch because normally you have two guys competing with each other the whole time trying to get ahead, trying to get the strike, trying to be more dominant, whereas as a partnership they are extremely dominant."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-new-zealand-by-119-runs-to-reach-world-cup-semis-232875">England </a>will play either Australia or India in their semi-final match at Edgbaston, where England have not lost in 10 matches across formats.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson lamented the lack of significant partnerships on a difficult track after their crushing defeat by England in their final group match of the Cricket World Cup on Wednesday.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson lamented the lack of significant partnerships on a difficult track after their crushing defeat by England in their final group match of the Cricket World Cup on Wednesday. Chasing 306 for a victory that would have assured them a place in the semi-finals, New Zealand lost both their openers cheaply and the wheels came off their innings when Williamson and Ross Taylor both were run out in successive overs. Tom Latham made a fighting 57 but New Zealand were still shot out for 186 in 45 overs. "Going into that second half, we just needed a couple of big partnerships, certainly from the top order and it wasn't there," said Williamson, who felt the track got tough to bat on midway through the England innings.'' "By no means was it an easy surface to try and gain momentum but at the same time it was important as a batting unit we were able to try and take the game to a position where you might give yourself a chance to win it, but we weren't able to do that," said Williamson. Electing to bat, England got a flying start from Jonny Bairstow and Jason Roy to be 194-1 in 30 overs before the New Zealand bowlers halted their progress to restrict the hosts to 305-8. England captain Eoin Morgan said his team had played some of their best cricket in their last two group games to make the semi-finals of the World Cup after 27 years. Back-to-back defeats by Sri Lanka and Australia had jeopardised England's semi-final prospects but Morgan's men bounced back in style, ending India's unbeaten run in Birmingham and then crushing New Zealand to storm into the last four. A common factor in both the victories was the flying start England got from openers Jonny Bairstow, who smashed his second successive century on Wednesday, and Jason Roy who made a roaring return from a hamstring injury in the match against India. "We bat all the way down but those two are pushing the ceiling as to what guys can normally do," Morgan said. More than the runs they raise, Morgan was pleased with how the openers complemented each other. "Jonny got off to a flyer, Jason was quite slow to start and then caught up and Jonny slowed down. "It was really brilliant to watch because normally you have two guys competing with each other the whole time trying to get ahead, trying to get the strike, trying to be more dominant, whereas as a partnership they are extremely dominant." England will play either Australia or India in their semi-final match at Edgbaston, where England have not lost in 10 matches across formats.

World Cup: Morgan hails Bairstow, Roy while Williamson rues lack of partnerships

Pakistan will take on Bangladesh in the 43rd match of&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2019 on Friday at Lord's, London.

This will be the ninth and the final league match for both the teams.

Pakistan, whose chances of qualifying for the semifinals received a major setback after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-new-zealand-by-119-runs-to-reach-world-cup-semis-232875">England beat New Zealand</a> by 119 runs on Wednesday, have a nearly impossible task to qualify for semifinals.

Pakistan at the moment are placed fifth on the points table with nine points while Bangladesh are on the seventh with seven points.

In World Cup history, both have previously clashed only once in the 1999 World Cup, and Bangladesh defeated Pakistan&nbsp;by 62 runs in the clash.

Pakistan and Bangladesh have faced each other 36 times in the One Day International format, with Pakistan having an upper hand over Bangladesh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-may-get-tossed-out-of-world-cup-even-before-a-ball-is-bowled-in-bangladesh-match-232967">Pakistan </a>have won 31 out of the 36 matches while Bangladesh have managed to defeat them&nbsp;five times which includes a&nbsp;clean sweep in a 3 match ODI series in 2014–15.

They will take on each other at the 2019 World Cup on July 5 at Lord's in London.

Pakistan will take on Bangladesh in the 43rd match of ICC World Cup 2019 on Friday at Lord's, London. This will be the ninth and the final league match for both the teams.

Pakistan will take on Bangladesh in the 43rd match of ICC World Cup 2019 on Friday at Lord's, London. This will be the ninth and the final league match for both the teams. Pakistan, whose chances of qualifying for the semifinals received a major setback after England beat New Zealand by 119 runs on Wednesday, have a nearly impossible task to qualify for semifinals. Pakistan at the moment are placed fifth on the points table with nine points while Bangladesh are on the seventh with seven points. In World Cup history, both have previously clashed only once in the 1999 World Cup, and Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by 62 runs in the clash. Pakistan and Bangladesh have faced each other 36 times in the One Day International format, with Pakistan having an upper hand over Bangladesh. Pakistan have won 31 out of the 36 matches while Bangladesh have managed to defeat them five times which includes a clean sweep in a 3 match ODI series in 2014–15. They will take on each other at the 2019 World Cup on July 5 at Lord's in London.

World Cup: Head-to-head records between Pakistan and Bangladesh

After registering a comprehensive 119-run victory over New Zealand, England's pacer Mark Wood said that he got really lucky to dismiss Kiwi skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-morgan-hails-bairstow-roy-while-williamson-rues-lack-of-partnerships-232936">Kane Williamson</a>.

Williamson was playing steadily during the chase of 307 runs against England.

Ross Taylor punched a delivery from Wood down the ground, but Wood stuck his hand out and he got the slightest of deflection onto the stumps at the non-striker's end.

Williamson who was backing up in trying to steal a run, was found short of his ground and was eventually sent back to the pavilion.

"I got lucky. He backed-up because he was looking for the run. It was nothing to do with my bowling. And it's not as if I deliberately palmed it back on the stumps. I was trying to actually stop it and got a little bit fortunate. I am pleased that in such a big game I managed to be so lucky," Wood said.

"He doesn't know how unlucky he is because I've got the smallest hands for a bloke you've ever seen. I managed to just get a fingertip to it. The umpire wasn't sure if I'd tipped it, and I was like 'I swear to God I did.'&nbsp;I knew it had flicked the end of my finger," he added.

During the match between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-new-zealand-by-119-runs-to-reach-world-cup-semis-232875">England </a>and New Zealand, the former won the toss and opted to bat first.

England posted a score of 306 runs on the board. Openers Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow once again provided a solid opening partnership to the team.

Roy was dismissed for 60 but Bairstow went on to score a century. This was Bairstow's second consecutive century as he earlier scored a century against India on Sunday as well.

New Zealand were not able to chase the target as they fell 119-run short. No Kiwi batsmen were able to stay at the crease for a long time and England kept chipping away at the wickets.

As a result of this, England qualified for the semi-finals.

England have qualified for the semi-finals for the first time in the World Cup since 1992.

Wood heaped praise on Williamson, saying that the Kiwi is one of the best batsmen he has bowled at. The pacer said that the team has momentum in its corner, which will be beneficial for the side in the semi-final.

"He is one of the best players I've ever bowled at. So to get him out any way you can is pretty important. It saved me bowling at him any more so I was pretty pleased," Wood said.

"We've got some great momentum. We've had our backs up against the wall so to play with the values we have talked about in the past has shown a lot of courage from the team. Now we are going on to another huge game, but one we'll be pretty confident in," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-really-pleased-with-my-performance-says-jonny-bairstow-after-smashing-century-232822">England </a>now waits for other results to find out who they will face in the semi-final.

After registering a comprehensive 119-run victory over New Zealand, England's pacer Mark Wood said that he got really lucky to dismiss Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson.

After registering a comprehensive 119-run victory over New Zealand, England's pacer Mark Wood said that he got really lucky to dismiss Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson. Williamson was playing steadily during the chase of 307 runs against England. Ross Taylor punched a delivery from Wood down the ground, but Wood stuck his hand out and he got the slightest of deflection onto the stumps at the non-striker's end. Williamson who was backing up in trying to steal a run, was found short of his ground and was eventually sent back to the pavilion. "I got lucky. He backed-up because he was looking for the run. It was nothing to do with my bowling. And it's not as if I deliberately palmed it back on the stumps. I was trying to actually stop it and got a little bit fortunate. I am pleased that in such a big game I managed to be so lucky," Wood said. "He doesn't know how unlucky he is because I've got the smallest hands for a bloke you've ever seen. I managed to just get a fingertip to it. The umpire wasn't sure if I'd tipped it, and I was like 'I swear to God I did.' I knew it had flicked the end of my finger," he added. During the match between England and New Zealand, the former won the toss and opted to bat first. England posted a score of 306 runs on the board. Openers Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow once again provided a solid opening partnership to the team. Roy was dismissed for 60 but Bairstow went on to score a century. This was Bairstow's second consecutive century as he earlier scored a century against India on Sunday as well. New Zealand were not able to chase the target as they fell 119-run short. No Kiwi batsmen were able to stay at the crease for a long time and England kept chipping away at the wickets. As a result of this, England qualified for the semi-finals. England have qualified for the semi-finals for the first time in the World Cup since 1992. Wood heaped praise on Williamson, saying that the Kiwi is one of the best batsmen he has bowled at. The pacer said that the team has momentum in its corner, which will be beneficial for the side in the semi-final. "He is one of the best players I've ever bowled at. So to get him out any way you can is pretty important. It saved me bowling at him any more so I was pretty pleased," Wood said. "We've got some great momentum. We've had our backs up against the wall so to play with the values we have talked about in the past has shown a lot of courage from the team. Now we are going on to another huge game, but one we'll be pretty confident in," he added. England now waits for other results to find out who they will face in the semi-final.

World Cup: I got lucky, says England's Mark Wood on dismissing Kane Williamson

Australia's hopes of winning an Ashes series in England for the first time in 18 years have been boosted by former Test captain Steve Waugh agreeing to mentor the side.

Waugh, considered the embodiment of Australian grit, was enlisted by coach Justin Langer who has made a point of bringing in former greats to help rebuild the team's image after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

Ricky Ponting, Australia's record run-scorer, is currently assisting him at the World Cup in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jonny-bairstow-picks-world-cup-glory-over-ashes-win-217217&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjH9tOB7prjAhVGnY8KHV3nCRoQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0VWfUrx9AWJqT_Za1_XXhj">England </a>ahead of the Ashes starting next month.

Test captain Tim Paine confirmed that Waugh -&nbsp;the last Australian skipper to win the Ashes in England in 2001 - would be with the team for the six-week campaign.

"I know it is something that 'JL' and myself have been quite big on, that is to try and get some of our past legends in and around the team," Paine said on the Cricket Australia website late Wednesday.

"During the World Cup as well, we have had Ricky (Ponting), and now with the Test series, we are very fortunate to have Steve Waugh who is, obviously, a legend and is going to be great service for myself as a leader and captain.

"I think to have someone like him around during a Test series is going to be great for our whole group," he added.

Renowned for his mental strength, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-waugh-compares-hardik-pandya-with-lance-klusener-after-blistering-innings-against-australia-226198&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjS7K-V7prjAhVjl48KHZazBVQQFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2ENanT3xiuyptMu8UNlM0D">Waugh </a>played 168 Tests, including 46 against England, scoring 32 centuries.

The first Ashes Test starts at Edgbaston in Birmingham on August 1.

Australia's hopes of winning an Ashes series in England for the first time in 18 years have been boosted by former Test captain Steve Waugh agreeing to mentor the side.

Australia's hopes of winning an Ashes series in England for the first time in 18 years have been boosted by former Test captain Steve Waugh agreeing to mentor the side. Waugh, considered the embodiment of Australian grit, was enlisted by coach Justin Langer who has made a point of bringing in former greats to help rebuild the team's image after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Ricky Ponting, Australia's record run-scorer, is currently assisting him at the World Cup in England ahead of the Ashes starting next month. Test captain Tim Paine confirmed that Waugh - the last Australian skipper to win the Ashes in England in 2001 - would be with the team for the six-week campaign. "I know it is something that 'JL' and myself have been quite big on, that is to try and get some of our past legends in and around the team," Paine said on the Cricket Australia website late Wednesday. "During the World Cup as well, we have had Ricky (Ponting), and now with the Test series, we are very fortunate to have Steve Waugh who is, obviously, a legend and is going to be great service for myself as a leader and captain. "I think to have someone like him around during a Test series is going to be great for our whole group," he added. Renowned for his mental strength, Waugh played 168 Tests, including 46 against England, scoring 32 centuries. The first Ashes Test starts at Edgbaston in Birmingham on August 1.

Former captain Steve Waugh to mentor Australia for Ashes

Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup received a major setback after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-new-zealand-by-119-runs-to-reach-world-cup-semis-232875">England beat New Zealand</a> by 119 runs on Wednesday.

Now, Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh by never seen before margins to stand a chance to reach the semis. Pakistan are placed fifth in the points table with nine points from eight matches.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-beats-india-in-dropped-catches-with-a-huge-margin-in-world-cup-2019-229984&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjB0t6m5prjAhXHiHAKHQuKAUAQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0JlL65hg04lfP7bYrRuOVE">Pakistan </a>are just below New Zealand, who are placed fourth with eleven points from nine matches and have a net run rate of +0.175 even after their loss to England.

Pakistan have a net run rate of -0.792 which will probably cost them their chance to qualify for the semis.

There are very slim chances of Pakistan to qualify to the semifinal but it is mathematically possible.

Here are the probable ways for Pakistan to reach the semis:

If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 311 runs after posting 350

or

If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 316 runs after scoring 400

or

If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 321 runs after scoring 450.

And if Pakistan are made to bowl first, they will be out of the semifinal race even before the first ball is bowled at Lord's on Friday.

New Zealand who are placed fourth will qualify automatically if Pakistan fail to beat Bangladesh by one of these highly unlikely margins.

Pakistan will take on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-bangladesh-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-with-62-run-win-over-afghanistan-230128&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjHwZ235prjAhWBFYgKHYkGDbEQFjAJegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0JPwlCPamZyM8YaHDhHLgh">Bangladesh </a>on Friday at &nbsp;Lord's in London.

Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup received a major setback after England beat New Zealand by 119 runs on Wednesday. Now, Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh by never seen before margins to stand a chance to reach the semis.

Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup received a major setback after England beat New Zealand by 119 runs on Wednesday. Now, Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh by never seen before margins to stand a chance to reach the semis. Pakistan are placed fifth in the points table with nine points from eight matches. Pakistan are just below New Zealand, who are placed fourth with eleven points from nine matches and have a net run rate of +0.175 even after their loss to England. Pakistan have a net run rate of -0.792 which will probably cost them their chance to qualify for the semis. There are very slim chances of Pakistan to qualify to the semifinal but it is mathematically possible. Here are the probable ways for Pakistan to reach the semis: If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 311 runs after posting 350 or If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 316 runs after scoring 400 or If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 321 runs after scoring 450. And if Pakistan are made to bowl first, they will be out of the semifinal race even before the first ball is bowled at Lord's on Friday. New Zealand who are placed fourth will qualify automatically if Pakistan fail to beat Bangladesh by one of these highly unlikely margins. Pakistan will take on Bangladesh on Friday at Lord's in London.

Pakistan may get 'tossed' out of World Cup even before a ball is bowled in Bangladesh match

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is a "world-class" leader and pundits should not brand him as timid or cautious after the Kiwis lost their last two matches at the Cricket World Cup, batsman Ross Taylor said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealands-trent-boult-takes-world-cup-hat-trick-against-australia-231583&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik5ZzOkZjjAhVMLo8KHbaeC2kQFjAGegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2bi3h_rwdFfwzpCSvM9Bvz">New Zealand</a> were firm favourites to become the first team to seal a semi-final spot after winning five matches in a row but consecutive losses to Pakistan and Australia have left Williamson's side in third place with one game to go.

British media have picked on Williamson's sedate captaincy style which they said was in stark contrast to former captain Brendon McCullum's gung-ho approach but Taylor said he was not concerned by the reaction from pundits.

"I think Kane is a fantastic world-class batsman and a world-class captain," he told reporters ahead of Wednesday's match against England. "You don't have to look far, the last couple of matches.''

"There are some pundits out there saying he was a great captain. We lose a couple of games and he is a bad captain. He is still a great captain, leads from the front and the team respect him and I love playing under him.''

"I played under many different captains, Brendon was the extreme and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2015-firmly-behind-kane-williamsons-new-zealand-as-they-reunite-with-sri-lanka-223318&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik5ZzOkZjjAhVMLo8KHbaeC2kQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3e4Gib8bbdanDAS87pBEc3">Kane </a>has his own unique style... Brendon would want to set very attacking fields throughout the whole match and Kane would pick his moments when he wants to attack," said Taylor.

Taylor said he expected a high-scoring match at The Riverside Ground after Sri Lanka beat West Indies by 23 runs at the same venue on Monday, with both teams scoring 300-plus runs.

"I think it will be a good wicket," Taylor added. "I think we saw yesterday (in the) Sri Lanka-West Indies (game), 300 played 300. So I think we've got to expect... scores of 300-plus.

"But in saying that, both teams have got very good bowling lineups that can exploit conditions if suited and vice versa some very powerful batting lineups as well."

A win against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-england-end-indias-unbeaten-run-to-revive-semis-hopes-231858&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl5LT4kZjjAhVZinAKHcg8CswQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0P3LpmRK4ucDwqMrAk4xc2">England </a>will seal a semi-final spot for the Kiwis but - placed three points behind Australia - they cannot top the standings.

However, Taylor said a top-four finish was their primary target and not their seeding for the semi-final fixtures.

"We said at the start of the tournament, it doesn't matter if you go on as the first seed or the fourth seed as long as you make the semi-finals," the 35-year-old said.

"Once you make the semi-finals, you know you are only two games away," Taylor said.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is a "world-class" leader and pundits should not brand him as timid or cautious after the Kiwis lost their last two matches at the Cricket World Cup, batsman Ross Taylor said on Tuesday.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is a "world-class" leader and pundits should not brand him as timid or cautious after the Kiwis lost their last two matches at the Cricket World Cup, batsman Ross Taylor said on Tuesday. New Zealand were firm favourites to become the first team to seal a semi-final spot after winning five matches in a row but consecutive losses to Pakistan and Australia have left Williamson's side in third place with one game to go. British media have picked on Williamson's sedate captaincy style which they said was in stark contrast to former captain Brendon McCullum's gung-ho approach but Taylor said he was not concerned by the reaction from pundits. "I think Kane is a fantastic world-class batsman and a world-class captain," he told reporters ahead of Wednesday's match against England. "You don't have to look far, the last couple of matches.'' "There are some pundits out there saying he was a great captain. We lose a couple of games and he is a bad captain. He is still a great captain, leads from the front and the team respect him and I love playing under him.'' "I played under many different captains, Brendon was the extreme and Kane has his own unique style... Brendon would want to set very attacking fields throughout the whole match and Kane would pick his moments when he wants to attack," said Taylor. Taylor said he expected a high-scoring match at The Riverside Ground after Sri Lanka beat West Indies by 23 runs at the same venue on Monday, with both teams scoring 300-plus runs. "I think it will be a good wicket," Taylor added. "I think we saw yesterday (in the) Sri Lanka-West Indies (game), 300 played 300. So I think we've got to expect... scores of 300-plus. "But in saying that, both teams have got very good bowling lineups that can exploit conditions if suited and vice versa some very powerful batting lineups as well." A win against England will seal a semi-final spot for the Kiwis but - placed three points behind Australia - they cannot top the standings. However, Taylor said a top-four finish was their primary target and not their seeding for the semi-final fixtures. "We said at the start of the tournament, it doesn't matter if you go on as the first seed or the fourth seed as long as you make the semi-finals," the 35-year-old said. "Once you make the semi-finals, you know you are only two games away," Taylor said.

Ross Taylor slams skipper Kane Williamson's critics ahead of New Zealand vs England clash

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rohit-sharma-presents-injured-fan-with-yellow-autographed-bat-after-sixer-ball-hit-her-232572">Rohit Sharma</a>, who is in the form of his life.

Rohit produced another sublime innings to notch his fourth hundred of the tournament as India booked their semi-final place with a 28-run win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-yorker-specialist-jasprit-bumrah-reaps-benefits-of-net-practice-232568">Bangladesh </a>at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

The right-hander became only the second batsman, after Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, to score four tons&nbsp;at a single World Cup, prompting captain Virat Kohli to dub him the world's leading one-day player.

Rahul, who moved up the order in the absence of injured Shikhar Dhawan, admitted his transition has been easier as Rohit continues to find boundaries at will, easing the pressure in the opening powerplay.

"You would be a fool to be tempted to bat like Rohit because he is in a different class," Rahul told reporters. "He is from a different planet altogether when he gets going.''

"To bat with him is really easy because he takes the pressure off you. He keeps getting the boundaries and the scoreboard keeps ticking, I just have to keep there with him. It is great fun," he added.

Rahul, whose 77 against Bangladesh was his highest score of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indias-most-passionate-fan-in-world-cup-skipper-virat-kohli-greets-her-232567">World Cup</a>, said he was pleased with his steady progress at the top of the order and feels a big score is around the corner.

"Personally, I feel I have been going well, but am not fully satisfied as I haven't carried on after some of the starts," he added.

"When I say 'convert' I mean getting to say 35 or 45 overs as often as I can because in these conditions it is the set batsmen who can do the most damage," said Rahul.

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner Rohit Sharma, who is in the form of his life.

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner Rohit Sharma, who is in the form of his life. Rohit produced another sublime innings to notch his fourth hundred of the tournament as India booked their semi-final place with a 28-run win over Bangladesh at Edgbaston on Tuesday. The right-hander became only the second batsman, after Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, to score four tons at a single World Cup, prompting captain Virat Kohli to dub him the world's leading one-day player. Rahul, who moved up the order in the absence of injured Shikhar Dhawan, admitted his transition has been easier as Rohit continues to find boundaries at will, easing the pressure in the opening powerplay. "You would be a fool to be tempted to bat like Rohit because he is in a different class," Rahul told reporters. "He is from a different planet altogether when he gets going.'' "To bat with him is really easy because he takes the pressure off you. He keeps getting the boundaries and the scoreboard keeps ticking, I just have to keep there with him. It is great fun," he added. Rahul, whose 77 against Bangladesh was his highest score of the World Cup, said he was pleased with his steady progress at the top of the order and feels a big score is around the corner. "Personally, I feel I have been going well, but am not fully satisfied as I haven't carried on after some of the starts," he added. "When I say 'convert' I mean getting to say 35 or 45 overs as often as I can because in these conditions it is the set batsmen who can do the most damage," said Rahul.

World Cup: Rohit Sharma's batting on a different planet, says KL Rahul

For someone as flamboyant off the pitch as on it, it is fitting that Hardik Pandya's transformation into India's reliable fifth bowler has been nothing less than spectacular at this year's Cricket World Cup.

The 25-year-old, known for his flashy clothes and love for bling, arrived in <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-41-england-vs-new-zealand-232709">England </a>with many wondering if he was good enough for the fifth bowler's job in his maiden World Cup.

The seam-bowling all-rounder has since effortlessly dispelled any shred of doubt with a string of stellar performances with the ball.

He bowled his full 10 overs against Australia, Afghanistan, England and Bangladesh. India's opening fixture against South Africa was the only match where the opposition lasted 50 overs and Pandya did not complete his quota.

He now inspires so much confidence in Virat Kohli that the India captain went with only five bowlers in Tuesday's victory against Bangladesh which secured their place in the semi-finals.

"We experienced that Hardik, when put under pressure has, come back really well in this tournament..." Kohli said of what prompted his "gamble" with the bowling attack.

"He finds a way to contain the runs and get you wickets. He's really looking forward to do stuff for the team, that's really helping his cricket," Kohli said.

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-beat-bangladesh-by-28-runs-to-make-semis-232562">Pandya claimed 3-60</a> on Tuesday and his victims included Bangladesh talisman Shakib Al Hasan, who top-scored for his side with 66, and Liton Das, who he dismissed with a trademark short ball.

WISER PANDYA

The all-rounder has fine-tuned his bowling and appears to have returned wiser from a brief suspension earlier this year for his comments about women on a television show in January.

Kohli suggested that underneath Pandya's casual exterior lies a cerebral cricketer who draws from his experience as an all-rounder to outwit batsmen.

"When he comes to bowl, he thinks like a batsman," Kohli said. "He actually wants the ball under pressure because he thinks like a batter, so he can check their body language and know what to bowl and when. He's bowling really well for us."

Bowling coach Bharat Arun had earlier explained how much <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-waugh-compares-hardik-pandya-with-lance-klusener-after-blistering-innings-against-australia-226198&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJ54TX55jjAhVBjuYKHbrTCKEQFjAIegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QofF89EULJi3jfRk1-6S1">Pandya </a>had evolved to fit the fifth bowler's role.

"It was a big challenge for him to bowl those 10 overs, and he realised that to be able to bowl those 10 overs 'I need to develop a certain armoury in my bowling'," Arun said in Manchester last month.

"And that's what he's worked on. He's worked on his slow balls, his slow bouncers, and he’s also worked on perfecting his bouncers. All these put together have given him the confidence to go through those 10 overs," said Arun.

For someone as flamboyant off the pitch as on it, it is fitting that Hardik Pandya's transformation into India's reliable fifth bowler has been nothing less than spectacular at this year's Cricket World Cup.

For someone as flamboyant off the pitch as on it, it is fitting that Hardik Pandya's transformation into India's reliable fifth bowler has been nothing less than spectacular at this year's Cricket World Cup. The 25-year-old, known for his flashy clothes and love for bling, arrived in England with many wondering if he was good enough for the fifth bowler's job in his maiden World Cup. The seam-bowling all-rounder has since effortlessly dispelled any shred of doubt with a string of stellar performances with the ball. He bowled his full 10 overs against Australia, Afghanistan, England and Bangladesh. India's opening fixture against South Africa was the only match where the opposition lasted 50 overs and Pandya did not complete his quota. He now inspires so much confidence in Virat Kohli that the India captain went with only five bowlers in Tuesday's victory against Bangladesh which secured their place in the semi-finals. "We experienced that Hardik, when put under pressure has, come back really well in this tournament..." Kohli said of what prompted his "gamble" with the bowling attack. "He finds a way to contain the runs and get you wickets. He's really looking forward to do stuff for the team, that's really helping his cricket," Kohli said. Pandya claimed 3-60 on Tuesday and his victims included Bangladesh talisman Shakib Al Hasan, who top-scored for his side with 66, and Liton Das, who he dismissed with a trademark short ball. WISER PANDYA The all-rounder has fine-tuned his bowling and appears to have returned wiser from a brief suspension earlier this year for his comments about women on a television show in January. Kohli suggested that underneath Pandya's casual exterior lies a cerebral cricketer who draws from his experience as an all-rounder to outwit batsmen. "When he comes to bowl, he thinks like a batsman," Kohli said. "He actually wants the ball under pressure because he thinks like a batter, so he can check their body language and know what to bowl and when. He's bowling really well for us." Bowling coach Bharat Arun had earlier explained how much Pandya had evolved to fit the fifth bowler's role. "It was a big challenge for him to bowl those 10 overs, and he realised that to be able to bowl those 10 overs 'I need to develop a certain armoury in my bowling'," Arun said in Manchester last month. "And that's what he's worked on. He's worked on his slow balls, his slow bouncers, and he’s also worked on perfecting his bouncers. All these put together have given him the confidence to go through those 10 overs," said Arun.

Hardik Pandya uses experience as all-rounder to outwit players, says India skipper Virat Kohli

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/indias-ambati-rayudu-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-232677">Ambati Rayudu</a> on Wednesday retired from all forms of cricket after spending 25 years on the field.

The cricketing fraternity sympathised with the former India middle-order batsman, who was overlooked by the team management, which picked Mayank Agarwal as a replacement player for an injured Vijay Shankar in India's 15-man World Cup squad.

Former batsman Virender Sehwag in a tweet said that being ignored by the management must be painful for Rayudu.

He further wished him good luck for his future endeavours.

"Must definitely be very painful at being ignored for the World Cup for #AmbatiRayudu but I wish him all the very best in life after retirement," Sehwag wrote.

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Must definitely be very painful at being ignored for the WorldCup for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmbatiRayudu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmbatiRayudu</a> but I wish him all the very best in life after retirement.
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1146365823461838848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mohammad Kaif, the former batsman, said that Rayudu did everything he could to make a comeback in the team. He further added that the World Cup snub has hurt him deeply.

"Have to feel for #AmbatiRayudu, did everything he could to make a comeback, did well in the opportunities he got but the World Cup snub must have hurt him really deeply. Wish him the best in retirement," Kaif tweeted.

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Have to feel for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmbatiRayudu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmbatiRayudu</a> , did everything he could to make a comeback, did well in the opportunities he got but the World Cup snub must have hurt him really deeply. Wish him the best in retirement.
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1146363159554527232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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VVS Laxman, the former cricketer, felt sorry for in-form Rayudu and wished him happiness and peace in his second innings.

"Can understand the pain and anguish Ambati Rayudu may be feeling after the World Cup snub even after performing well. I wish him lots of happiness and peace in his second innings," Laxman said.

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Can understand the pain and anguish Ambati Rayudu may be feeling after the World Cup snub even after performing well. 
I wish him lots of happiness and peace in his second innings.
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1146359636288823298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Chennai&nbsp;IPL franchise wished the retirement news was not true. It took to Twitter and said, "Rayudon't! Wish it wasn't true! #AmbatiRayuduRetires."

Rayudu made a decision to step away from cricket earlier today.

In a <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/heres-what-ambati-rayudu-wrote-in-retirement-letter-to-bcci-232763">letter to the BCCI</a>, he said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game."

Rayudu was a regular member in the Indian squad for the past one year and averaged 47.05 in the ODI format.

He had been team's number four batsman since the Asia Cup last year. He had scored one century and four half-centuries since then.

Rayudu even scored 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paving the way for India's victory.

But he fell off the wagon of late as he was not able to replicate his good performances in the ODI series against Australia.

The batsman played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday retired from all forms of cricket after spending 25 years on the field. The cricketing fraternity sympathised with the former India middle-order batsman, who was overlooked by the team management, which picked Mayank Agarwal as a replacement player for an injured Vijay Shankar in India's 15-man World Cup squad.

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday retired from all forms of cricket after spending 25 years on the field. The cricketing fraternity sympathised with the former India middle-order batsman, who was overlooked by the team management, which picked Mayank Agarwal as a replacement player for an injured Vijay Shankar in India's 15-man World Cup squad. Former batsman Virender Sehwag in a tweet said that being ignored by the management must be painful for Rayudu. He further wished him good luck for his future endeavours. "Must definitely be very painful at being ignored for the World Cup for #AmbatiRayudu but I wish him all the very best in life after retirement," Sehwag wrote. Must definitely be very painful at being ignored for the WorldCup for #AmbatiRayudu but I wish him all the very best in life after retirement. — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 3, 2019 × Mohammad Kaif, the former batsman, said that Rayudu did everything he could to make a comeback in the team. He further added that the World Cup snub has hurt him deeply. "Have to feel for #AmbatiRayudu, did everything he could to make a comeback, did well in the opportunities he got but the World Cup snub must have hurt him really deeply. Wish him the best in retirement," Kaif tweeted. Have to feel for #AmbatiRayudu , did everything he could to make a comeback, did well in the opportunities he got but the World Cup snub must have hurt him really deeply. Wish him the best in retirement. — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 3, 2019 × VVS Laxman, the former cricketer, felt sorry for in-form Rayudu and wished him happiness and peace in his second innings. "Can understand the pain and anguish Ambati Rayudu may be feeling after the World Cup snub even after performing well. I wish him lots of happiness and peace in his second innings," Laxman said. Can understand the pain and anguish Ambati Rayudu may be feeling after the World Cup snub even after performing well. I wish him lots of happiness and peace in his second innings. — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) July 3, 2019 × Chennai IPL franchise wished the retirement news was not true. It took to Twitter and said, "Rayudon't! Wish it wasn't true! #AmbatiRayuduRetires." Rayudu made a decision to step away from cricket earlier today. In a letter to the BCCI, he said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game." Rayudu was a regular member in the Indian squad for the past one year and averaged 47.05 in the ODI format. He had been team's number four batsman since the Asia Cup last year. He had scored one century and four half-centuries since then. Rayudu even scored 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paving the way for India's victory. But he fell off the wagon of late as he was not able to replicate his good performances in the ODI series against Australia. The batsman played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.

Sehwag, Laxman, Kaif sympathise with Ambati Rayudu after his retirement

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday made a decision to step away from cricket and retired from all forms and levels of the game.

In a letter to the BCCI, former India middle-order batsman said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game."

The 33-year-old expressed his gratitude to the national governing body for cricket and all the state associations including Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha, and IPL franchises Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians for their support.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the BCCI&nbsp;and all the state associations that I have represented which include Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha. I also would like to thank the two IPL franchises MI and CSK&nbsp;for their support," he continued.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ambati-rayudu-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-232677">Rayudu </a>also thanked captains MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli under whom he played.

"It has been an honour and privilege to have represented our country. I would like to thank the captains I have played under, MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and especially Virat Kohli who always had shown great belief in me throughout my career with the Indian team," he said.

The former middle-order batsman signed off, saying he learned from every up and down in his career at various levels. He also thanked his family and well-wishers for their continued support.

"It has been a wonderful journey of playing the sport and learning from every up and down it brought upon for the last 25 years at various different levels. Finally, I would like to thank my family and all the wellwishers who have been with me throughout this wonderful journey," he concluded.

The cricketer was snubbed from the World Cup squad and in place of him, all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-shankar-is-three-dimensional-looking-him-at-no-4-msk-prasad-after-naming-indias-world-cup-squad-210607&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXjKKU1JjjAhXBBKYKHUvWBeAQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2djmUPMIhOWcK1oKjiPoYj">Vijay Shankar</a> was given a chance in the team.

While announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad had said, "After the Champions Trophy, we tried a lot of middle-order batsmen, which includes (Dinesh) Karthik as well. We gave Rayudu many chances, but Shankar gives us the ability with the three dimensions (bowling, batting, fielding). If the conditions are suitable, he can come in as an all-rounder. Shankar is a batsman who can bowl, we are looking to play him at number four."

Following the announcement, Rayudu took Twitter and posted a cheeky message.

"Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup," Rayudu had tweeted.

Even after injuries to Shikhar Dhawan and Shankar in the ongoing World Cup, Rayudu was not called into the squad.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-shikhar-dhawan-ruled-out-due-to-thumb-fracture-228686&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8yaOg1JjjAhUP3Y8KHXDCBCgQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2mS-bm7mdctQ6EA_3D8s2Z">Dhawan </a>and Shankar were replaced by Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal, respectively.

Rayudu was a regular member in the Indian squad for the past one year and averaged 47.05 in the ODI format.

He had been team's number four batsman since the Asia Cup last year. He had scored one century and four half-centuries since then.

Rayudu even scored 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paving the way for India's victory.

But he fell off the wagon of late as he was not able to replicate his good performances in the ODI series against Australia.

The batsman played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday made a decision to step away from cricket and retired from all forms and levels of the game. In a letter to the BCCI, former India middle-order batsman said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game.

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday made a decision to step away from cricket and retired from all forms and levels of the game. In a letter to the BCCI, former India middle-order batsman said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game." The 33-year-old expressed his gratitude to the national governing body for cricket and all the state associations including Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha, and IPL franchises Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians for their support. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the BCCI and all the state associations that I have represented which include Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha. I also would like to thank the two IPL franchises MI and CSK for their support," he continued. Rayudu also thanked captains MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli under whom he played. "It has been an honour and privilege to have represented our country. I would like to thank the captains I have played under, MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and especially Virat Kohli who always had shown great belief in me throughout my career with the Indian team," he said. The former middle-order batsman signed off, saying he learned from every up and down in his career at various levels. He also thanked his family and well-wishers for their continued support. "It has been a wonderful journey of playing the sport and learning from every up and down it brought upon for the last 25 years at various different levels. Finally, I would like to thank my family and all the wellwishers who have been with me throughout this wonderful journey," he concluded. The cricketer was snubbed from the World Cup squad and in place of him, all-rounder Vijay Shankar was given a chance in the team. While announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad had said, "After the Champions Trophy, we tried a lot of middle-order batsmen, which includes (Dinesh) Karthik as well. We gave Rayudu many chances, but Shankar gives us the ability with the three dimensions (bowling, batting, fielding). If the conditions are suitable, he can come in as an all-rounder. Shankar is a batsman who can bowl, we are looking to play him at number four." Following the announcement, Rayudu took Twitter and posted a cheeky message. "Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup," Rayudu had tweeted. Even after injuries to Shikhar Dhawan and Shankar in the ongoing World Cup, Rayudu was not called into the squad. Dhawan and Shankar were replaced by Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal, respectively. Rayudu was a regular member in the Indian squad for the past one year and averaged 47.05 in the ODI format. He had been team's number four batsman since the Asia Cup last year. He had scored one century and four half-centuries since then. Rayudu even scored 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paving the way for India's victory. But he fell off the wagon of late as he was not able to replicate his good performances in the ODI series against Australia. The batsman played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.

Here's what Ambati Rayudu wrote in retirement letter to BCCI

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan scripted a record on Tuesday as he became the first player in the history to score more than 500 runs and take 10 wickets in a single World Cup campaign.

He achieved the feat against India in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-beat-bangladesh-by-28-runs-to-make-semis-232562">India</a>, Shakib scored 66 runs and took one wicket, but this performance by him was not enough for Bangladesh as they lost the match by 28 runs.

With this loss, Bangladesh semi-final hopes came out to an end.

Shakib has been in tremendous form in the tournament so far and he is just two runs behind India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharmas-batting-on-a-different-planet-says-kl-rahul-232610">Rohit Sharma</a> in the leading run-scorer list in the ongoing World Cup.

The left-handed batsman has scored 542 runs in the tournament. He has scored two centuries and three half-centuries.

Shakib scored back-to-back centuries against England and West Indies. The 32-year-old has been in good form with the ball as well.

The all-rounder has bowled economical spells throughout the tournament. Shakib has a total of 11 wickets in the World Cup so far.

He went on to take a five-wicket haul against Afghanistan and as a result, he became the second player after India's Yuvraj Singh to score 50 runs and take five wickets in the same World Cup match.

In the match between India and Bangladesh, the former won the toss and elected to bat first.

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul provided a solid start to the team as they put up a 180-run stand.

Rahul was dismissed for 77 but Sharma went on to register his fourth century in the tournament.

After Sharma's dismissal, Bangladesh bowlers were able to peg the Indian batsmen back and they restricted the side to 314/9 in 50 overs.

Chasing 315, Bangladesh kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and as soon as Shakib was dismissed, the team faced an uphill battle.

Sabbir Rahman and Mohammad Saifuddin played lower-order cameos, but in Bangladesh fell short by 28 runs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-yorker-specialist-jasprit-bumrah-reaps-benefits-of-net-practice-232568">Jasprit Bumrah</a> starred for India with the ball as he scalped four wickets.

Bangladesh will play against Pakistan in their final match of the tournament on July 5.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan scripted a record on Tuesday as he became the first player in the history to score more than 500 runs and take 10 wickets in a single World Cup campaign.

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan scripted a record on Tuesday as he became the first player in the history to score more than 500 runs and take 10 wickets in a single World Cup campaign. He achieved the feat against India in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Against India, Shakib scored 66 runs and took one wicket, but this performance by him was not enough for Bangladesh as they lost the match by 28 runs. With this loss, Bangladesh semi-final hopes came out to an end. Shakib has been in tremendous form in the tournament so far and he is just two runs behind India's Rohit Sharma in the leading run-scorer list in the ongoing World Cup. The left-handed batsman has scored 542 runs in the tournament. He has scored two centuries and three half-centuries. Shakib scored back-to-back centuries against England and West Indies. The 32-year-old has been in good form with the ball as well. The all-rounder has bowled economical spells throughout the tournament. Shakib has a total of 11 wickets in the World Cup so far. He went on to take a five-wicket haul against Afghanistan and as a result, he became the second player after India's Yuvraj Singh to score 50 runs and take five wickets in the same World Cup match. In the match between India and Bangladesh, the former won the toss and elected to bat first. Indian openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul provided a solid start to the team as they put up a 180-run stand. Rahul was dismissed for 77 but Sharma went on to register his fourth century in the tournament. After Sharma's dismissal, Bangladesh bowlers were able to peg the Indian batsmen back and they restricted the side to 314/9 in 50 overs. Chasing 315, Bangladesh kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and as soon as Shakib was dismissed, the team faced an uphill battle. Sabbir Rahman and Mohammad Saifuddin played lower-order cameos, but in Bangladesh fell short by 28 runs. Jasprit Bumrah starred for India with the ball as he scalped four wickets. Bangladesh will play against Pakistan in their final match of the tournament on July 5.

Shakib Al Hasan becomes first player to score 500 runs, take 10 wickets in World Cup history

Players to watch out for in India vs Bangladesh World Cup clash

Cricket World Cup 2019: Asian dominance in Britishers' game

West Indies great Clive Lloyd believes Australia and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-twin-gems-equalling-kumar-sangakkaras-record-breaking-ms-dhonis-232420">India </a>are the "standout" teams at the World Cup but has urged Virat Kohli's side to boost their batting if they are to dethrone the reigning champions.

Australia, whose only loss at the tournament so far has come against India, are already through to the semi-finals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-40-india-vs-bangladesh-232302">India </a>will be assured of joining them if they beat Bangladesh on Tuesday and the two-time former champions are likely to get through to the knockout stage in any event.

Lloyd, the West Indies' captain when they won the first two men's World Cups in 1975 and 1979, has been impressed by Australia and India.

"They have been the two standout teams for me at this World Cup," said Lloyd in an ICC column published on Tuesday.

"They have understood the conditions better than any of the others," he said.

But Lloyd said India's 31-run defeat by England at Edgbaston on Sunday had exposed a weakness in Kohli's team.

"England played the right kind of game against them by attacking the spinners and they need to strengthen their batting lower down the order," said Lloyd.

Lloyd, now 74, was one of the original powerful shotmakers, which are now commonplace in one-day cricket.

The former West Indies skipper has tipped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-pat-cummins-issues-warning-to-world-cup-rivals-232269">Australia </a>left-hander Alex Carey, who scored 71 in the win against New Zealand, as a potential star of the tournament.

"Carey was a relative unknown beforehand but he bats with such maturity," he said. "He has the freedom to attack but also the technical skills needed to find the boundary,'' Lloyd said.

"He is a bolter and I have loved watching him play," he added.

The West Indies only have pride left to play for in their final group match against Afghanistan, with Jason Holder's men out of the running for a place in the semi-finals.

But Lloyd said it was "far from doom or gloom" for his old side, citing Nicholas Pooran's maiden ODI century in Monday's narrow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-39-sri-lanka-vs-west-indies-231990">defeat by Sri Lanka</a> as a cause for optimism.&nbsp;

"He has done very well in this tournament and is someone we can really build around going forward," said Lloyd.

"He has a lot of things to learn but the raw ingredients are there for him to go on and become a fine player for the West Indies over the next few years," Lloyd added.

West Indies great Clive Lloyd believes Australia and India are the "standout" teams at the World Cup but has urged Virat Kohli's side to boost their batting if they are to dethrone the reigning champions.

West Indies great Clive Lloyd believes Australia and India are the "standout" teams at the World Cup but has urged Virat Kohli's side to boost their batting if they are to dethrone the reigning champions. Australia, whose only loss at the tournament so far has come against India, are already through to the semi-finals. India will be assured of joining them if they beat Bangladesh on Tuesday and the two-time former champions are likely to get through to the knockout stage in any event. Lloyd, the West Indies' captain when they won the first two men's World Cups in 1975 and 1979, has been impressed by Australia and India. "They have been the two standout teams for me at this World Cup," said Lloyd in an ICC column published on Tuesday. "They have understood the conditions better than any of the others," he said. But Lloyd said India's 31-run defeat by England at Edgbaston on Sunday had exposed a weakness in Kohli's team. "England played the right kind of game against them by attacking the spinners and they need to strengthen their batting lower down the order," said Lloyd. Lloyd, now 74, was one of the original powerful shotmakers, which are now commonplace in one-day cricket. The former West Indies skipper has tipped Australia left-hander Alex Carey, who scored 71 in the win against New Zealand, as a potential star of the tournament. "Carey was a relative unknown beforehand but he bats with such maturity," he said. "He has the freedom to attack but also the technical skills needed to find the boundary,'' Lloyd said. "He is a bolter and I have loved watching him play," he added. The West Indies only have pride left to play for in their final group match against Afghanistan, with Jason Holder's men out of the running for a place in the semi-finals. But Lloyd said it was "far from doom or gloom" for his old side, citing Nicholas Pooran's maiden ODI century in Monday's narrow defeat by Sri Lanka as a cause for optimism. "He has done very well in this tournament and is someone we can really build around going forward," said Lloyd. "He has a lot of things to learn but the raw ingredients are there for him to go on and become a fine player for the West Indies over the next few years," Lloyd added.

World Cup: India and Australia are 'standout' teams, says Clive Lloyd

Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif while referring to the inclusion of Mayank Agarwal, on Tuesday said that the number of matches being played should be considered as a factor to be selected in India's World Cup squad.

"The only problem I have with players is that I need to see how many matches they have been playing regularly. Whether they are in touch or not, " Kaif told ANI.

Top-order batsman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/twitterati-express-dissent-on-mayank-agarwals-choice-over-ambati-rayudu-as-vijay-shankars-replacement-232055&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwizsdPTiJbjAhVJvI8KHff7BBAQFjAAegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Zj_DmnLRNifIKf-N7nahY">Mayank </a>replaced all-rounder Vijay Shankar in the 15-man squad as Shankar was ruled out after sustaining a toe injury.

Mayank has featured in two Tests and is yet to make an ODI debut.

Kaif further said Rishabh Pant, who made his World Cup debut against England, is not used to the handling the pressure at the ongoing marquee event in the UK.

"Same thing with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-rishabh-pant-makes-world-cup-debut-231715">Rishabh Pant.</a> Of course, he had some practice session but the only factor is that he is not in touch of the condition so much and handling the pressure," Kaif said.

India's unbeaten winning streak at the ongoing tournament ended as they fell 31 runs short of England's mighty target 338 runs.

The former batsman, however, came in support of the team, saying India fought well and they just had a bad day.

He also praised England for playing really well in their must-win match.

"India played well. They just lost one game so it's not a big deal. Any team can lose one game. They've been playing well. If you talk about batsman, chasing 338 is a big task. It's not happened in the World Cup so far. India just had a bad day. England played really well. There was a saying they are tournament favourites, " he remarked.

KL Rahul has been promoted to open in the absence of Shikhar Dhawan, who was ruled out earlier due to a left-hand injury.

When asked should Rahul return to the much-talked-about position, Kaif dodged the question, saying, "I don't know what's the plan. Let's see. I can't say. Even Kohli doesn't know."

India needs to win one of its two remaining matches against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, respectively, to secure semi-finals berth.

Kaif said that the national team is balanced and players are in form.

He also stressed that injury cannot be helped but India have got back up players who can do the job well.

"We have a balanced side and players are in form. There are just a few areas where India need to work on. There have been injury concerns like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-vijay-shankar-ruled-out-of-tournament-with-toe-injury-231984">Vijay Shankar</a> is out. Injury cannot be helped but I think we have got the backups, " Kaif said.

Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif while referring to the inclusion of Mayank Agarwal, on Tuesday said that the number of matches being played should be considered as a factor to be selected in India's World Cup squad.

Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif while referring to the inclusion of Mayank Agarwal, on Tuesday said that the number of matches being played should be considered as a factor to be selected in India's World Cup squad. "The only problem I have with players is that I need to see how many matches they have been playing regularly. Whether they are in touch or not, " Kaif told ANI. Top-order batsman Mayank replaced all-rounder Vijay Shankar in the 15-man squad as Shankar was ruled out after sustaining a toe injury. Mayank has featured in two Tests and is yet to make an ODI debut. Kaif further said Rishabh Pant, who made his World Cup debut against England, is not used to the handling the pressure at the ongoing marquee event in the UK. "Same thing with Rishabh Pant. Of course, he had some practice session but the only factor is that he is not in touch of the condition so much and handling the pressure," Kaif said. India's unbeaten winning streak at the ongoing tournament ended as they fell 31 runs short of England's mighty target 338 runs. The former batsman, however, came in support of the team, saying India fought well and they just had a bad day. He also praised England for playing really well in their must-win match. "India played well. They just lost one game so it's not a big deal. Any team can lose one game. They've been playing well. If you talk about batsman, chasing 338 is a big task. It's not happened in the World Cup so far. India just had a bad day. England played really well. There was a saying they are tournament favourites, " he remarked. KL Rahul has been promoted to open in the absence of Shikhar Dhawan, who was ruled out earlier due to a left-hand injury. When asked should Rahul return to the much-talked-about position, Kaif dodged the question, saying, "I don't know what's the plan. Let's see. I can't say. Even Kohli doesn't know." India needs to win one of its two remaining matches against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, respectively, to secure semi-finals berth. Kaif said that the national team is balanced and players are in form. He also stressed that injury cannot be helped but India have got back up players who can do the job well. "We have a balanced side and players are in form. There are just a few areas where India need to work on. There have been injury concerns like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Vijay Shankar is out. Injury cannot be helped but I think we have got the backups, " Kaif said.

Kaif doubtful of Mayank Agarwal's form after his inclusion in World Cup squad

World Cup: Key battles in India vs England encounter