Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan&nbsp;will miss the next three to four games with a hand injury, assistant coach Sanjay Bangar confirmed ahead of team's upcoming match against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Dhawan, however,&nbsp;was spotted at the nets during India's practice session. The left-hand batsman&nbsp;was seen strolling around the ground, talking to India's bowling coach Bharat Arun and leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-amid-injury-scare-cricketer-shikhar-dhawan-tweets-couplet-226451">Dhawan </a>sustained the injury during his match-winning hundred against Australia on Sunday when Nathan Coulter-Nile's rising delivery hit on his hand.&nbsp;

Bangar also confirmed that back-up opener KL Rahul, who was picked to play at number four, will partner Rohit Sharma at the top of the order starting with Thursday's match against New Zealand.&nbsp;

"In 10-12 days we'll be taking a call on the status of Shikhar," Bangar told reporters after the team's light practice at Trent Bridge.

"If and when a replacement is required, it's always good to have the replacement player already in and practising regularly as a standby."

Watch: Shikhar Dhawan at India's practice session

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Shikhar Dhawan at India's practice session at Trent Bridge, Nottingham ahead of their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCCricketWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCCricketWorldCup2019</a> match against New Zealand, tomorrow. He had suffered a fracture on his thumb in India's match against Australia on 9 June &amp; has been ruled out for at least a week. <a href="https://t.co/4PjV3dvH6j">pic.twitter.com/4PjV3dvH6j</a>
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"...Dhawan is presently under the observation of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-bcci-releases-official-statement-on-shikhar-dhawans-thumb-injury-226345">BCCI medical team</a>. The team management has decided that Dhawan will continue to be in England and his progress will be monitored," the Indian team said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Dhawan sustained an injury on the back of his left hand in the region between the index finger and thumb...," the statement added.&nbsp;

Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan will miss the next three to four games with a hand injury, assistant coach Sanjay Bangar confirmed ahead of team's upcoming match against New Zealand.

Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan will miss the next three to four games with a hand injury, assistant coach Sanjay Bangar confirmed ahead of team's upcoming match against New Zealand. Dhawan, however, was spotted at the nets during India's practice session. The left-hand batsman was seen strolling around the ground, talking to India's bowling coach Bharat Arun and leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Dhawan sustained the injury during his match-winning hundred against Australia on Sunday when Nathan Coulter-Nile's rising delivery hit on his hand. Bangar also confirmed that back-up opener KL Rahul, who was picked to play at number four, will partner Rohit Sharma at the top of the order starting with Thursday's match against New Zealand. "In 10-12 days we'll be taking a call on the status of Shikhar," Bangar told reporters after the team's light practice at Trent Bridge. "If and when a replacement is required, it's always good to have the replacement player already in and practising regularly as a standby." Watch: Shikhar Dhawan at India's practice session #WATCH Shikhar Dhawan at India's practice session at Trent Bridge, Nottingham ahead of their #ICCCricketWorldCup2019 match against New Zealand, tomorrow. He had suffered a fracture on his thumb in India's match against Australia on 9 June & has been ruled out for at least a week. pic.twitter.com/4PjV3dvH6j — ANI (@ANI) June 12, 2019 × "...Dhawan is presently under the observation of the BCCI medical team. The team management has decided that Dhawan will continue to be in England and his progress will be monitored," the Indian team said in a statement. "Dhawan sustained an injury on the back of his left hand in the region between the index finger and thumb...," the statement added.

Watch: Injured Shikhar Dhawan during India's practice session ahead of New Zealand clash

Bangladesh are optimistic that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will recover from a thigh injury in time for Monday's World Cup match against West Indies in Taunton, their coach Steve Rhodes has said.

Shakib strained a muscle in his left thigh while batting against England in Cardiff last week, but fought past the pain to make 121 runs as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-south-africa-by-21-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-223723&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjG577x7-PiAhVSdCsKHfW5CnMQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1M7oN8PBRXc0RcchqzCFn8">Bangladesh </a>lost by 106 runs.

The 32-year old, who has scored 260 runs at the tournament so far, was a doubt for Tuesday's match against Sri Lanka, which was subsequently abandoned, and Rhodes is confident the extra week's rest will do him good.

"He picked up a little injury in that game 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-beat-bangladesh-by-106-runs-225564&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi0voed8OPiAhWm6nMBHRgsCMIQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1rW7O7mqR00t7d5XLFwwLT">England </a>and he fought on and battled on and played extremely well with an injury," Rhodes told reporters on Tuesday.

"We're very, very optimistic that with the treatment he will get this week he can recover well and play in that next game against West Indies," Rhodes said.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48988c74-a410-4a79-8332-21cca61c3673" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_27.jpg" />

Bangladesh will face West Indies on June 17 at Cardiff.

Bangladesh are optimistic that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will recover from a thigh injury in time for Monday's World Cup match against West Indies in Taunton, their coach Steve Rhodes has said.

Bangladesh are optimistic that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will recover from a thigh injury in time for Monday's World Cup match against West Indies in Taunton, their coach Steve Rhodes has said. Shakib strained a muscle in his left thigh while batting against England in Cardiff last week, but fought past the pain to make 121 runs as Bangladesh lost by 106 runs. The 32-year old, who has scored 260 runs at the tournament so far, was a doubt for Tuesday's match against Sri Lanka, which was subsequently abandoned, and Rhodes is confident the extra week's rest will do him good. "He picked up a little injury in that game against England and he fought on and battled on and played extremely well with an injury," Rhodes told reporters on Tuesday. "We're very, very optimistic that with the treatment he will get this week he can recover well and play in that next game against West Indies," Rhodes said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Bangladesh will face West Indies on June 17 at Cardiff.

World Cup: Bangladesh confident injured Shakib Al Hasan will play against West Indies

Players to watch out for in India vs New Zealand clash at World Cup

Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal admitted he made bad decisions while batting due to which he has not been able to leave a mark on the field till now in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Iqbal has not even touched the 30-mark score in any of his three World Cup matches.

In <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-south-africa-by-21-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-223723&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVtaaw5-DiAhWC63MBHUfSAnYQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0NIqPf-AC8aumHCFXVl0Fw">Bangladesh's opening match</a> in the premier tournament 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/it-will-take-time-to-overcome-christchurch-horror-says-bangladeshs-tamim-iqbal-203739&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj29e6f5-DiAhWV7HMBHc5SBXMQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LVodJJYdy6hcu3XSWPvp_">Iqbal </a>scored 16 runs before he was caught behind off Andile Phehlukwayo's delivery.

Whereas, in the next two matches against New Zealand and England, Iqbal scored only 24 and 19 runs respectively.

"It has nothing to do with preparation, I made bad decisions. I don't count the first match [South Africa] because it was a good delivery [from Andile Phehlukwayo]. The other two games, I made bad decisions on that particular ball. The other thing is, if you go through both my innings, I made one mistake and got out," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Iqbal as saying.

After defeating South Africa by 21 runs, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-record-partnership-spurs-bangladesh-to-score-their-highest-odi-total-223680&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVtaaw5-DiAhWC63MBHUfSAnYQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3WJfcYFyeo50j45Wf6LyMm">Bangladesh </a>lost both of their next two matches played against New Zealand and England.

After not being able to perform as per his capabilities, Iqbal expressed confidence saying, "As long as I batted, I did well, and then I make one mistake and got out. This is cricket, and you have to take it. I hope I take it in a positive way. I know the runs are around the corner. I am capable and I have done it before against the best attacks in the world, and I don't see why I can't do it again. And if I can't, that is also life".

However, Iqbal has performed brilliantly between the 2015 and 2019 World Cup as his average 57.06 is second only to India batsman Rohit Sharma among openers.

He accumulated 2511 runs in 51 innings during this period which included seven centuries and 18 half-centuries.

"It is my expectations that is creating pressure. Only people close to me will know how I am feeling. I keep on going back to 2015 because I suffered, and so did my wife and family. It was a black chapter in my life. It is very easy to tell me that I have done well in the past. But I am not at all shy to say that I am worried that I don't go back to those days again. The beauty of the game, though, is, people forget everything after one or two good innings," he said.

Iqbal also acknowledged the fact that innings he played in the past do not really matter as it is only the present performances that matter.

He further added that he is hoping to turn things around in the next couple of games for his side by scoring runs.

"There's no 'enough'&nbsp;in cricket. I can easily point you towards my record in the last 50 matches. Nobody remembers it. It is always the present. But if I want to grow as a cricketer, I have to remember what I have done. I am trying hard, but I hope I don't try too hard, which probably I am. I hope if I score in one of the next couple of games, I will be up and running," Iqbal said.

<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-captain-eoin-morgan-feels-clash-against-bangladesh-will-be-a-difficult-one-225383&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVtaaw5-DiAhWC63MBHUfSAnYQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1jsAwY1lh0YTeIlfrWHicg">Bangladesh </a>will now face Sri Lanka at Bristol County Ground today.

Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal admitted he made bad decisions while batting due to which he has not been able to leave a mark on the field till now in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal admitted he made bad decisions while batting due to which he has not been able to leave a mark on the field till now in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Iqbal has not even touched the 30-mark score in any of his three World Cup matches. In Bangladesh's opening match in the premier tournament against South Africa, Iqbal scored 16 runs before he was caught behind off Andile Phehlukwayo's delivery. Whereas, in the next two matches against New Zealand and England, Iqbal scored only 24 and 19 runs respectively. "It has nothing to do with preparation, I made bad decisions. I don't count the first match [South Africa] because it was a good delivery [from Andile Phehlukwayo]. The other two games, I made bad decisions on that particular ball. The other thing is, if you go through both my innings, I made one mistake and got out," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Iqbal as saying. After defeating South Africa by 21 runs, Bangladesh lost both of their next two matches played against New Zealand and England. After not being able to perform as per his capabilities, Iqbal expressed confidence saying, "As long as I batted, I did well, and then I make one mistake and got out. This is cricket, and you have to take it. I hope I take it in a positive way. I know the runs are around the corner. I am capable and I have done it before against the best attacks in the world, and I don't see why I can't do it again. And if I can't, that is also life". However, Iqbal has performed brilliantly between the 2015 and 2019 World Cup as his average 57.06 is second only to India batsman Rohit Sharma among openers. He accumulated 2511 runs in 51 innings during this period which included seven centuries and 18 half-centuries. "It is my expectations that is creating pressure. Only people close to me will know how I am feeling. I keep on going back to 2015 because I suffered, and so did my wife and family. It was a black chapter in my life. It is very easy to tell me that I have done well in the past. But I am not at all shy to say that I am worried that I don't go back to those days again. The beauty of the game, though, is, people forget everything after one or two good innings," he said. Iqbal also acknowledged the fact that innings he played in the past do not really matter as it is only the present performances that matter. He further added that he is hoping to turn things around in the next couple of games for his side by scoring runs. "There's no 'enough' in cricket. I can easily point you towards my record in the last 50 matches. Nobody remembers it. It is always the present. But if I want to grow as a cricketer, I have to remember what I have done. I am trying hard, but I hope I don't try too hard, which probably I am. I hope if I score in one of the next couple of games, I will be up and running," Iqbal said. Bangladesh will now face Sri Lanka at Bristol County Ground today.

World Cup: 'I made bad decisions' says Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal on his bad form

Days after South Africa coach Ottis Gibson and selection panel convenor Linda Zondi put forward their views on AB de Villiers'&nbsp;desire to feature in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, skipper Faf du Plessis also opined over the issue saying his offer came in too late to consider.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-regrets-south-africa-on-turning-down-ab-de-villiers-approach-224972&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimpuqq2ODiAhVI7HMBHT0eDTMQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3owe_imi9UdxPRrcqwp0-7">Du Plessis</a> revealed that he shared a phone call with De Villiers during this edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).

"It was just a conversation, a phone call the night before the team got announced. It was just a 'this is what I'm feeling'&nbsp;[phone call]. I said to him, 'I think it is too late but I will check in with the coach and the selectors the next morning.'&nbsp;When I spoke to the coach and the selectors, they all agreed that it was way, way too late to change the team on 99.99," ICC quoted Du Plessis as saying.

South Africa has been on a dismal run in the premier tournament as they have lost their first three matches.

However, in their fourth match against West Indies on Monday, they got one point as the match got abandoned due to rain and consequently, both the teams were awarded one point each.

Du Plessis was also asked whether all these recent incidents regarding <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-offered-to-come-out-of-retirement-for-world-cup-224906&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimpuqq2ODiAhVI7HMBHT0eDTMQFjABegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3z-QXTqMMA4xpmwWM8Fsae">De Villiers</a> impacted his team negatively or had a galvanizing effect, the 34-year old replied,&nbsp;"I think a little bit of both. We do feel like the news came in and like went through the team. It didn't have a huge impact."

Du Plessis admitted that his friendship with De Villiers has not changed amid all this.

"AB and I are still friends. This incident has not changed that. This is a small thing for a friendship that goes so way back," he said.

South Africa will now face Afghanistan at Sophia Gardens on June 15.

Days after South Africa coach Ottis Gibson and selection panel convenor Linda Zondi put forward their views on AB de Villiers' desire to feature in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, skipper Faf du Plessis also opined over the issue saying his offer came in too late to consider.

Days after South Africa coach Ottis Gibson and selection panel convenor Linda Zondi put forward their views on AB de Villiers' desire to feature in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, skipper Faf du Plessis also opined over the issue saying his offer came in too late to consider. Du Plessis revealed that he shared a phone call with De Villiers during this edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). "It was just a conversation, a phone call the night before the team got announced. It was just a 'this is what I'm feeling' [phone call]. I said to him, 'I think it is too late but I will check in with the coach and the selectors the next morning.' When I spoke to the coach and the selectors, they all agreed that it was way, way too late to change the team on 99.99," ICC quoted Du Plessis as saying. South Africa has been on a dismal run in the premier tournament as they have lost their first three matches. However, in their fourth match against West Indies on Monday, they got one point as the match got abandoned due to rain and consequently, both the teams were awarded one point each. Du Plessis was also asked whether all these recent incidents regarding De Villiers impacted his team negatively or had a galvanizing effect, the 34-year old replied, "I think a little bit of both. We do feel like the news came in and like went through the team. It didn't have a huge impact." Du Plessis admitted that his friendship with De Villiers has not changed amid all this. "AB and I are still friends. This incident has not changed that. This is a small thing for a friendship that goes so way back," he said. South Africa will now face Afghanistan at Sophia Gardens on June 15.

World Cup: AB de Villiers' offer was too late to change team, says South Africa captain Faf du Plessis

Players to watch out for in Australia vs Pakistan clash at World Cup

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of Australia's clash against Pakistan on Wednesday due to a side strain.

Defending champions Australia, who were aiming to bounce back after losing their third match to India, will have to rely on Glenn Maxwell as their only all-rounder in the squad.

Although <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-ricky-ponting-says-marcus-stoinis-is-best-outfielder-in-australia-squad-225437&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjqucO_p-HiAhVdknAKHeSbDeoQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2wW0wy-78tEaY1SPiAUaMD">Stoinis</a> has not been ruled out the tournament, Mitchell Marsh, who was supposed to tour England with the Australia A team, has been flown in early as cover.&nbsp;

Stoinis will be re-examined before Australia's match against Sri Lanka on Saturday to determine if he will be out of the tournament permanently.

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BREAKING: Australia's Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of tomorrow's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> game against Pakistan with a side strain. Mitchell Marsh has flown over to the UK as cover, though Stoinis remains part of the squad for now. <a href="https://t.co/c475unsJ3F">pic.twitter.com/c475unsJ3F</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1138398702404550656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The official statement published on tournament's Twitter account read, "Australia's Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of tomorrow's #CWC19 game against Pakistan with a side strain."

"Mitchell Marsh has flown over to the UK as cover, though Stoinis remains part of the squad for now," the statement added.&nbsp;

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of Australia's clash against Pakistan on Wednesday due to a side strain. Defending champions Australia, who were aiming to bounce back after losing their third match to India, will have to rely on Glenn Maxwell as their only all-rounder in the squad.

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of Australia's clash against Pakistan on Wednesday due to a side strain. Defending champions Australia, who were aiming to bounce back after losing their third match to India, will have to rely on Glenn Maxwell as their only all-rounder in the squad. Although Stoinis has not been ruled out the tournament, Mitchell Marsh, who was supposed to tour England with the Australia A team, has been flown in early as cover. Stoinis will be re-examined before Australia's match against Sri Lanka on Saturday to determine if he will be out of the tournament permanently. BREAKING: Australia's Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of tomorrow's #CWC19 game against Pakistan with a side strain. Mitchell Marsh has flown over to the UK as cover, though Stoinis remains part of the squad for now. pic.twitter.com/c475unsJ3F — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 11, 2019 × The official statement published on tournament's Twitter account read, "Australia's Marcus Stoinis has been ruled out of tomorrow's #CWC19 game against Pakistan with a side strain." "Mitchell Marsh has flown over to the UK as cover, though Stoinis remains part of the squad for now," the statement added.

World Cup: Marcus Stoinis ruled out of Australia's clash against Sri Lanka

After Australia faced their first defeat in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, team's assistant coach Ricky Ponting admitted that it was their batting which was not up to the mark.

"Our batting was just a little bit off again. We seemed to find the field a lot in the first 10 overs," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying.

Chasing a mammoth<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-shines-as-india-beat-holders-australia-by-36-runs-225791"> target of 353 runs set by India</a>, Australia skipper Aaron Finch, who opened the inning with David Warner, got run out in the 14th over after scoring 36 runs.

Ponting feels that Finch's run out happened at a really crucial time as the team had just started to get momentum.

"The run out happened at a really crucial time (the 14th over). The momentum had just started to turn there, Finchy had started to find the boundary a bit more frequently," he said.

India opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan hammered a ton while the skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-had-a-point-to-prove-against-australia-says-virat-kohli-225792">Virat Kohli</a> also added 82 runs on the board to help their side post a big target for Australia.

Ponting stated that they also needed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-ruled-out-for-three-weeks-due-to-injury-226202">Dhawan</a>-like inning in their top-order and that would have had put them in the game.

"We just needed someone at the top to go on and make a big hundred like Dhawan did and we would have been right in the game," Ponting said.

Despite all this, Ponting still has full faith in both the openers as he said,&nbsp;"Finch and Warner are probably as good as openers in the world. Finchy has turned things around really well in the last five or six months, Davey coming back has made runs. By his own admission today, (Warner) probably wasn't at his absolute best. He hit the field too often early on and wasn't able to rotate as he would have liked."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-reaction-when-virat-kohli-stopped-indian-fans-from-booing-him-225897">Steve Smith</a> came out to bat before Usman Khawaja and Ponting backed this decision by saying that they wanted a right-hand, left-hand combination during India's perilous spin attack.

"We wanted to have (favourable) left-hand, right-hand (match-ups) with those spinners and we thought Steven plays spin as well as anybody, so that was the only reason. It happens quite a lot in the modern game where you see that right-hand, left-hand combination, especially if they've got a lot of spin," he said.

After Australia faced their first defeat in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, team's assistant coach Ricky Ponting admitted that it was their batting which was not up to the mark.

After Australia faced their first defeat in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, team's assistant coach Ricky Ponting admitted that it was their batting which was not up to the mark. "Our batting was just a little bit off again. We seemed to find the field a lot in the first 10 overs," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. Chasing a mammoth target of 353 runs set by India, Australia skipper Aaron Finch, who opened the inning with David Warner, got run out in the 14th over after scoring 36 runs. Ponting feels that Finch's run out happened at a really crucial time as the team had just started to get momentum. "The run out happened at a really crucial time (the 14th over). The momentum had just started to turn there, Finchy had started to find the boundary a bit more frequently," he said. India opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan hammered a ton while the skipper Virat Kohli also added 82 runs on the board to help their side post a big target for Australia. Ponting stated that they also needed a Dhawan-like inning in their top-order and that would have had put them in the game. "We just needed someone at the top to go on and make a big hundred like Dhawan did and we would have been right in the game," Ponting said. Despite all this, Ponting still has full faith in both the openers as he said, "Finch and Warner are probably as good as openers in the world. Finchy has turned things around really well in the last five or six months, Davey coming back has made runs. By his own admission today, (Warner) probably wasn't at his absolute best. He hit the field too often early on and wasn't able to rotate as he would have liked." Steve Smith came out to bat before Usman Khawaja and Ponting backed this decision by saying that they wanted a right-hand, left-hand combination during India's perilous spin attack. "We wanted to have (favourable) left-hand, right-hand (match-ups) with those spinners and we thought Steven plays spin as well as anybody, so that was the only reason. It happens quite a lot in the modern game where you see that right-hand, left-hand combination, especially if they've got a lot of spin," he said.

World Cup: 'Our batting was little bit off', says Ricky Ponting after Australia's defeat against India

Steve Waugh, former Australia captain compared India's Hardik Pandya with 1999 World Cup's man of the tournament, South African Lance Klusener.

Pandya played a crucial role in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-14-india-vs-australia-225643">India's 36-run victory over Australia</a>.

Sent to bat at number four, Pandya hit 48 runs off 27 balls, helping India post a total of 352 for 5.

"...It's the innings of Hardik Pandya that will send shivers down opposition spines. This guy might just be the equivalent of Lance Klusener in the 1999 World Cup. He has the ability to begin his innings like most finish, with clean hitting that no opposing captain can protect," Waugh wrote in his column for the ICC's official website.

The damaging stroke play by Pandya, who hit four fours and three sixes, reminded Waugh of Klusener's fireworks in the 1999 World Cup.&nbsp;

Klusener was player of the tournament 20 years ago in England for his destructive lower-order hitting that netted 281 runs at a strike rate of 122.17, a phenomenal tally in the pre-T20 days of 1999.

"When they (India) get off to solid opening partnership, as they did against Australia, they then have the luxury of seeing Virat Kohli orchestrate the remainder of the innings," Waugh wrote.

Praising veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni who hit a 14-ball 27, Waugh said, "The cunning and sheer brilliance of MS Dhoni rarely fails to deliver and again he timed his assault on Australia to post a 350 plus target. ''

Steve Waugh also lauded Indian skipper Virat Kohli for "calming down" the crowd which booed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-reaction-when-virat-kohli-stopped-indian-fans-from-booing-him-225897">Steve Smith</a> in their World Cup clash in London, calling the gesture a "class act".

Waugh, one of the toughest and most successful captains of all time, said he was impressed by Kohli's action of asking the crowd to not boo Smith, who is continuing to cope the fans' ire after returning from a one-year ban for ball-tampering.

"Leadership reveals itself in many forms but I thought <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/booing-smith-not-acceptable-i-said-sorry-to-him-on-behalf-of-the-crowd-kohli-225807">Virat Kohli's gesture</a> in calming down the rough reception given to Steve Smith from the Indian spectators was a class act that calmed a volatile situation," Waugh, who led Australia to World Cup title in 1999, wrote for the ICC.

During the clash with India, which Australia lost by 36 runs, the Indian fans booed Smith and chanted "cheater, cheater" when the defending champions were fielding.&nbsp;

Kohli urged them to calm down and instead cheer his batting.

Waugh said India's 36-run victory in the high-pressure World Cup clash will provide them with enormous confidence as they move forward in this tournament.

Steve Waugh, former Australia captain compared India's Hardik Pandya with 1999 World Cup's man of the tournament, South African Lance Klusener. Pandya played a crucial role in India's 36-run victory over Australia.

Steve Waugh, former Australia captain compared India's Hardik Pandya with 1999 World Cup's man of the tournament, South African Lance Klusener. Pandya played a crucial role in India's 36-run victory over Australia. Sent to bat at number four, Pandya hit 48 runs off 27 balls, helping India post a total of 352 for 5. "...It's the innings of Hardik Pandya that will send shivers down opposition spines. This guy might just be the equivalent of Lance Klusener in the 1999 World Cup. He has the ability to begin his innings like most finish, with clean hitting that no opposing captain can protect," Waugh wrote in his column for the ICC's official website. The damaging stroke play by Pandya, who hit four fours and three sixes, reminded Waugh of Klusener's fireworks in the 1999 World Cup. Klusener was player of the tournament 20 years ago in England for his destructive lower-order hitting that netted 281 runs at a strike rate of 122.17, a phenomenal tally in the pre-T20 days of 1999. "When they (India) get off to solid opening partnership, as they did against Australia, they then have the luxury of seeing Virat Kohli orchestrate the remainder of the innings," Waugh wrote. Praising veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni who hit a 14-ball 27, Waugh said, "The cunning and sheer brilliance of MS Dhoni rarely fails to deliver and again he timed his assault on Australia to post a 350 plus target. '' Steve Waugh also lauded Indian skipper Virat Kohli for "calming down" the crowd which booed Steve Smith in their World Cup clash in London, calling the gesture a "class act". Waugh, one of the toughest and most successful captains of all time, said he was impressed by Kohli's action of asking the crowd to not boo Smith, who is continuing to cope the fans' ire after returning from a one-year ban for ball-tampering. "Leadership reveals itself in many forms but I thought Virat Kohli's gesture in calming down the rough reception given to Steve Smith from the Indian spectators was a class act that calmed a volatile situation," Waugh, who led Australia to World Cup title in 1999, wrote for the ICC. During the clash with India, which Australia lost by 36 runs, the Indian fans booed Smith and chanted "cheater, cheater" when the defending champions were fielding. Kohli urged them to calm down and instead cheer his batting. Waugh said India's 36-run victory in the high-pressure World Cup clash will provide them with enormous confidence as they move forward in this tournament.

World Cup: Waugh compares Hardik Pandya with Lance Klusener after blistering innings against Australia

Heavy rain threatens to play spoilsport when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-14-india-vs-australia-225643">India</a> face New Zealand in their next World Cup game at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

However, as per weather forecast, the rain is likely to subside by lunchtime on Thursday which means at least a curtailed game remains a possibility.

There have&nbsp;been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-sri-lanka-bangladesh-hope-for-a-game-as-bristol-rain-threatens-washout-226177">persistent showers across the United Kingdom</a> for the past two days and the local Met department has issued a warning for the residents.

"A Yellow Warning for rain is in force in the Nottingham area for most of this week," local website 'Nottinghampost' reported.

The Met office's warning on its website covered a large area of England, including Birmingham, Peterborough and Newcastle.

"There is a chance that heavy prolonged rain could lead to localised flooding and disruption to transport," it said.

As per local Met Office weather forecast for Nottingham, the heavy rain will continue till 7 pm on Wednesday.

"That lighter rain is expected to finally come to an end at about lunchtime on Thursday. The maximum temperatures will be around 13 degree Celsius and minimum overnight temperatures will be around 10 or 11 degree Celsius," the website reported.&nbsp;

Heavy rain threatens to play spoilsport when India face New Zealand in their next World Cup game at Trent Bridge on Thursday. However, as per weather forecast, the rain is likely to subside by lunchtime on Thursday which means at least a curtailed game remains a possibility.

Heavy rain threatens to play spoilsport when India face New Zealand in their next World Cup game at Trent Bridge on Thursday. However, as per weather forecast, the rain is likely to subside by lunchtime on Thursday which means at least a curtailed game remains a possibility. There have been persistent showers across the United Kingdom for the past two days and the local Met department has issued a warning for the residents. "A Yellow Warning for rain is in force in the Nottingham area for most of this week," local website 'Nottinghampost' reported. The Met office's warning on its website covered a large area of England, including Birmingham, Peterborough and Newcastle. "There is a chance that heavy prolonged rain could lead to localised flooding and disruption to transport," it said. As per local Met Office weather forecast for Nottingham, the heavy rain will continue till 7 pm on Wednesday. "That lighter rain is expected to finally come to an end at about lunchtime on Thursday. The maximum temperatures will be around 13 degree Celsius and minimum overnight temperatures will be around 10 or 11 degree Celsius," the website reported.

World Cup: Heavy rain forecast ahead of India vs New Zealand match

Yuvraj Singh announced retirement from international cricket on June 10 but India's star&nbsp;opener Rohit Sharma said that middle-order batsman deserved a better send-off.&nbsp;

"I have decided to move on. Cricket has given me everything and that's why I am standing here," he said after being reduced to tears by a video of the highlights of his career.&nbsp;

Rohit praised&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-time-to-say-goodbye-yuvraj-singh-announces-retirement-from-international-cricket-225902&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid39m27uDiAhVh7nMBHfBgCNcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ehlg-RffipHQqURIS8lB_">Yuvraj Singh's</a> roller-coaster career and wrote, "You don't know what you got till its gone. Love you brotherman. You deserved a better send-off."

Yuvraj played 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is for India.&nbsp;

He put together 1900 runs in the longest format, and 8701 in the one-dayers, the format in which he enjoyed the most success.&nbsp;

His one-day runs tally places him 22nd in the overall list, and seventh among Indians.

He is among the Indian greats who did not get a farewell game after contemporaries Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir.

After he announced his retirement in Mumbai on Monday, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-fraternity-reacts-as-yuvraj-singh-hangs-up-his-boots-225964&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid39m27uDiAhVh7nMBHfBgCNcQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1IiAYfaujGxklk83Zi85Ph">Yuvraj </a>revealed that he was promised a farewell game by the BCCI provided he failed the 'Yo-Yo' fitness test.

However, he passed it and the swansong never happened.

"Mujhe bola gaya tha agar aapse 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hota toh aap retirement match khel sakate ho (I was told that if you are not able to pass the 'Yo-Yo' test, I would get a farewell game)," the 37-year-old said at an emotional press conference to announce his decision to quit international cricket to pursue a freelance T20 career internationally.

"I did not tell anyone in BCCI that I have to play the last match. Agar main accha tha, potential tha toh main ground pe se chale jaata. (If I was good enough, I would have retired from the ground). Aur mujhe is tarha ki cricket khelna pasand nahi hai, ki mujhe ek match chahiye (I don't like to ask for a game, I have never played the game with that mindset)," he said.&nbsp;

"Toh maine us time bola ki mujhe retirement match nahi chahiye, 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hoga toh main chup chhap ghar chale jayunga? 'Yo-Yo' test pass kiya and then rest is not my call," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/yuvraj-singh-a-journey-of-ups-and-downs-226051&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid39m27uDiAhVh7nMBHfBgCNcQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0A19ZugUhOUryCTmGfOqf2">Yuvraj&nbsp;</a>said.

&nbsp;The 37-year-old, who announced his retirement here after almost 17 years of international cricket, last played for India in June 2017.

Yuvraj Singh announced retirement from international cricket on June 10 but India's star opener Rohit Sharma said that middle-order batsman deserved a better send-off.

Yuvraj Singh announced retirement from international cricket on June 10 but India's star opener Rohit Sharma said that middle-order batsman deserved a better send-off. "I have decided to move on. Cricket has given me everything and that's why I am standing here," he said after being reduced to tears by a video of the highlights of his career. Rohit praised Yuvraj Singh's roller-coaster career and wrote, "You don't know what you got till its gone. Love you brotherman. You deserved a better send-off." Yuvraj played 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is for India. He put together 1900 runs in the longest format, and 8701 in the one-dayers, the format in which he enjoyed the most success. His one-day runs tally places him 22nd in the overall list, and seventh among Indians. He is among the Indian greats who did not get a farewell game after contemporaries Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir. After he announced his retirement in Mumbai on Monday, Yuvraj revealed that he was promised a farewell game by the BCCI provided he failed the 'Yo-Yo' fitness test. However, he passed it and the swansong never happened. "Mujhe bola gaya tha agar aapse 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hota toh aap retirement match khel sakate ho (I was told that if you are not able to pass the 'Yo-Yo' test, I would get a farewell game)," the 37-year-old said at an emotional press conference to announce his decision to quit international cricket to pursue a freelance T20 career internationally. "I did not tell anyone in BCCI that I have to play the last match. Agar main accha tha, potential tha toh main ground pe se chale jaata. (If I was good enough, I would have retired from the ground). Aur mujhe is tarha ki cricket khelna pasand nahi hai, ki mujhe ek match chahiye (I don't like to ask for a game, I have never played the game with that mindset)," he said. "Toh maine us time bola ki mujhe retirement match nahi chahiye, 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hoga toh main chup chhap ghar chale jayunga? 'Yo-Yo' test pass kiya and then rest is not my call," Yuvraj said. The 37-year-old, who announced his retirement here after almost 17 years of international cricket, last played for India in June 2017.

Yuvraj Singh deserved a better farewell, says India vice-captain Rohit Sharma

Australian captain Aaron Finch had to defuse a potential controversy after Australia spinner Adam Zampa faced allegations of ball- tampering after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-shines-as-india-beat-holders-australia-by-36-runs-225791">India beat Australia by 36 runs</a> at the Oval in London.

Zampa was pictured during the India match putting his hand into his pocket and then rubbing the ball several times.

The incident came just a year after Australia stars Warner and Steve Smith, as well as team-mate Cameron Bancroft were banned for their roles in a ball-tampering scheme during a Test in South Africa.

On this occasion, Finch insisted Zampa was using hand-warmers he had put in his pocket, as he apparently does for every match.

"I haven't seen the photos, so I can't comment on them. I know for a fact he has hand warmers in his pocket. He has them in every single game he plays," Finch said.

Adam Zampa was reprimanded earlier by the International Cricket Council(ICC) for using an "audible obscenity" in Australia's battling 15-run World Cup win over the West Indies.

Leg-spinner Zampa admitted to the level-one offence and one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record. Leg-spinner Zampa admitted to the level-one offence and one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record.&nbsp;

When a player reaches four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, they are converted into suspension points and a player is banned.

Meanwhile, India captain<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/booing-smith-not-acceptable-i-said-sorry-to-him-on-behalf-of-the-crowd-kohli-225807"> Virat Kohli insisted </a>it was "not acceptable" for his side's fans to boo Steve Smith during the team's World Cup victory over Australia in London on Sunday.

Both Smith and fellow Australia batsman David Warner have been on the receiving end of jeers from opposition fans at the World Cup following their return to the international arena after serving year-long bans for their respective roles during a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. &nbsp;

Australian captain Aaron Finch had to defuse a potential controversy after Australia spinner Adam Zampa faced allegations of ball- tampering after India beat Australia by 36 runs at the Oval in London.

Australian captain Aaron Finch had to defuse a potential controversy after Australia spinner Adam Zampa faced allegations of ball- tampering after India beat Australia by 36 runs at the Oval in London. Zampa was pictured during the India match putting his hand into his pocket and then rubbing the ball several times. The incident came just a year after Australia stars Warner and Steve Smith, as well as team-mate Cameron Bancroft were banned for their roles in a ball-tampering scheme during a Test in South Africa. On this occasion, Finch insisted Zampa was using hand-warmers he had put in his pocket, as he apparently does for every match. "I haven't seen the photos, so I can't comment on them. I know for a fact he has hand warmers in his pocket. He has them in every single game he plays," Finch said. Adam Zampa was reprimanded earlier by the International Cricket Council(ICC) for using an "audible obscenity" in Australia's battling 15-run World Cup win over the West Indies. Leg-spinner Zampa admitted to the level-one offence and one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record. Leg-spinner Zampa admitted to the level-one offence and one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record. When a player reaches four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, they are converted into suspension points and a player is banned. Meanwhile, India captain Virat Kohli insisted it was "not acceptable" for his side's fans to boo Steve Smith during the team's World Cup victory over Australia in London on Sunday. Both Smith and fellow Australia batsman David Warner have been on the receiving end of jeers from opposition fans at the World Cup following their return to the international arena after serving year-long bans for their respective roles during a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Zampa hand warmers row: Finch defends spinner over ball tampering allegation

England are all set to take on Bangladesh for their third match in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-gloves-row-icc-sticks-to-its-stand-denies-permission-to-wear-gloves-with-dagger-insignia-225323">ICC </a>Men's Cricket World Cup and skipper Eoin Morgan is in no way under-estimating the Bangladesh side saying that they have 'huge amount of potential'.

"Bangladesh are a side with a huge amount of potential. It is going to be a difficult game because they're a good side. I think <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-sub-continent-sides-have-tndency-to-get-under-englands-skin-says-liam-plunkett-225226">people under-estimate them</a>," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Morgan as saying.

England registered a massive 104-run victory in the opening match of the World Cup against South Africa but faced a 14-run defeat against Pakistan.

Moreover, in 2015 edition of the World Cup, their upcoming opponents Bangladesh had ousted them from the 2015 edition of the World Cup.

Although admitting that their clash against Bangladesh will be a 'difficult'&nbsp;one, Morgan said that for the last couple of days they had some time off from the game.

"The last couple of days for us has been a case of getting away from the game. I watch a lot of horse racing and speak to friends and family. No, there have been no extra fielding drills. Absolutely not. Fielding for us has been an extremely strong point. We proved that in the first game. We had a bad day in the field at Trent Bridge. That can happen. I wouldn't say we were more anxious than normal," he said.

Morgan also stated that they are going to stick to their game despite facing defeats.

"Before the tournament started we talked about losing games and how we would. Everything goes back to focusing on our strengths and how to get the best out of ourselves. There's no panic. We're very realistic about performances whether we win or lose. If it doesn't go our way next game or the game after, there's no panic. It's all about sticking to the process," Morgan said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-chris-woakes-backs-england-to-bounce-back-from-pakistan-defeat-224431">England </a>will face Bangladesh at the Sophia Gardens today.

England are all set to take on Bangladesh for their third match in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and skipper Eoin Morgan is in no way under-estimating the Bangladesh side saying that they have 'huge amount of potential'.

England are all set to take on Bangladesh for their third match in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and skipper Eoin Morgan is in no way under-estimating the Bangladesh side saying that they have 'huge amount of potential'. "Bangladesh are a side with a huge amount of potential. It is going to be a difficult game because they're a good side. I think people under-estimate them," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Morgan as saying. England registered a massive 104-run victory in the opening match of the World Cup against South Africa but faced a 14-run defeat against Pakistan. Moreover, in 2015 edition of the World Cup, their upcoming opponents Bangladesh had ousted them from the 2015 edition of the World Cup. Although admitting that their clash against Bangladesh will be a 'difficult' one, Morgan said that for the last couple of days they had some time off from the game. "The last couple of days for us has been a case of getting away from the game. I watch a lot of horse racing and speak to friends and family. No, there have been no extra fielding drills. Absolutely not. Fielding for us has been an extremely strong point. We proved that in the first game. We had a bad day in the field at Trent Bridge. That can happen. I wouldn't say we were more anxious than normal," he said. Morgan also stated that they are going to stick to their game despite facing defeats. "Before the tournament started we talked about losing games and how we would. Everything goes back to focusing on our strengths and how to get the best out of ourselves. There's no panic. We're very realistic about performances whether we win or lose. If it doesn't go our way next game or the game after, there's no panic. It's all about sticking to the process," Morgan said. England will face Bangladesh at the Sophia Gardens today.

World Cup: England captain Eoin Morgan feels clash against Bangladesh will be a 'difficult one'

Pakistan's World Cup match against Sri Lanka was called off on Friday without a ball being bowled after persistent rain in Bristol.

Both teams take a point each from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-bristol-rain-threatens-to-dampen-upbeat-pakistan-and-sri-lanka-fixture-225075">wash-out</a> and have three from their opening three matches.

"As a team, we really wanted to play this match especially after gaining momentum with the win against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-chris-woakes-backs-england-to-bounce-back-from-pakistan-defeat-224431">England</a>," Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said.

"It is unfortunate that we were not able to play,"&nbsp;Sarfaraz said.

Pakistan lost their opening game to West Indies but recovered with a stunning victory over top-ranked England.

"We have great team spirit and our confidence is on a high after beating England. We would want to carry the momentum into the remaining games. We won’t relax in our remaining six matches," Sarfaraz added.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d8435bf-75de-4574-9dd0-4f3e067d2461" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_26.jpg" />

Sri Lanka next face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christchurch-attacks-gelled-bangladesh-ahead-of-the-world-cup-says-coach-rhodes-224445">Bangladesh </a>at the same venue on Tuesday, while Pakistan take on Australia at Taunton a day later.

Pakistan's World Cup match against Sri Lanka was called off on Friday without a ball being bowled after persistent rain in Bristol. Both teams take a point each from the wash-out and have three from their opening three matches.

Pakistan's World Cup match against Sri Lanka was called off on Friday without a ball being bowled after persistent rain in Bristol. Both teams take a point each from the wash-out and have three from their opening three matches. "As a team, we really wanted to play this match especially after gaining momentum with the win against England," Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said. "It is unfortunate that we were not able to play," Sarfaraz said. Pakistan lost their opening game to West Indies but recovered with a stunning victory over top-ranked England. "We have great team spirit and our confidence is on a high after beating England. We would want to carry the momentum into the remaining games. We won’t relax in our remaining six matches," Sarfaraz added. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Sri Lanka next face Bangladesh at the same venue on Tuesday, while Pakistan take on Australia at Taunton a day later.

World Cup: Pakistan, Sri Lanka share points after Bristol washout

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and elected to bowl against Afghanistan in Saturday's World Cup match at Taunton.

New Zealand have a 100 per cent record after thrashing Sri Lanka and then beating Bangladesh in their opening two matches.

"We're going to have a bowl. It looks like a fresh wicket, it's a bit cloudy overhead so we hope we can get in a bit early on," Williamson said.

"In a tournament sport you get in a flow, it's nice to have a couple of wins under our belt but we'll have to adapt today.

"We got across the line last time out and we will look to build on that. Everyone is fit, we are unchanged."

Afghanistan have started the tournament with two successive defeats against holders Australia and Sri Lanka.

With wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Shahzad ruled out for the rest of the World Cup due to a knee injury, Ikram Alikhil came into the Afghanistan team.

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib said he was happy to be put in to bat.

"I wanted to bat first. It looks a good wicket. I don't think it will change much over the course of the day," said Naib, who also brought in Noor Ali Zadran and Aftab Alam for Dawlat Zadran and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.

"We just need to play positive cricket and have more of the good moments we've done so far."

The Teams: 
 
New Zealand: 
Kane Williamson (capt), Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham (wkt), Jimmy Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult.&nbsp; 
 
Afghanistan: 
Gulbadin Naib (capt), Noor Ali Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Ikram Alikhil (wkt), Aftab Alam, Hamid Hassan.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and elected to bowl against Afghanistan in Saturday's World Cup match at Taunton. New Zealand have a 100 per cent record after thrashing Sri Lanka and then beating Bangladesh in their opening two matches.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and elected to bowl against Afghanistan in Saturday's World Cup match at Taunton. New Zealand have a 100 per cent record after thrashing Sri Lanka and then beating Bangladesh in their opening two matches. "We're going to have a bowl. It looks like a fresh wicket, it's a bit cloudy overhead so we hope we can get in a bit early on," Williamson said. "In a tournament sport you get in a flow, it's nice to have a couple of wins under our belt but we'll have to adapt today. "We got across the line last time out and we will look to build on that. Everyone is fit, we are unchanged." Afghanistan have started the tournament with two successive defeats against holders Australia and Sri Lanka. With wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Shahzad ruled out for the rest of the World Cup due to a knee injury, Ikram Alikhil came into the Afghanistan team. Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib said he was happy to be put in to bat. "I wanted to bat first. It looks a good wicket. I don't think it will change much over the course of the day," said Naib, who also brought in Noor Ali Zadran and Aftab Alam for Dawlat Zadran and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. "We just need to play positive cricket and have more of the good moments we've done so far." The Teams: New Zealand: Kane Williamson (capt), Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham (wkt), Jimmy Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult. Afghanistan: Gulbadin Naib (capt), Noor Ali Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Ikram Alikhil (wkt), Aftab Alam, Hamid Hassan.

World Cup: New Zealand win toss, opt to bowl against Afghanistan

India and Australia will clash in the standout game of the World Cup so far, with Virat Kohli's men looking to beat Aaron Finch-led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-ricky-ponting-says-marcus-stoinis-is-best-outfielder-in-australia-squad-225437">Australia</a>.

One of World Cup's most talked about rivalries resumes on Sunday at The Oval in London.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-kohli-says-picking-two-spinners-was-masterstroke-in-win-against-south-africa-224854">India </a>started their campaign with a six-wicket victory against a stunned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">South Africa.</a>

Meanwhile, Australia, with Steve Smith and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-net-bowler-hospitalised-after-getting-hit-on-head-by-david-warners-shot-during-practice-225478">David Warner</a> back in the squad, were professional against Afghanistan and brilliant in their come-from-behind victory against the West Indies.

India and Australia have played a total of 136 One Day International matches and Australia have had the better of India in 77, while India have managed to win 49 matches.

At the World Cup's, India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-record-breaking-mitchell-starc-becomes-fastest-to-150-odi-wickets-225244">Australia </a>have battled each other 11 times, out of which Australia have dominated India and beat them 8 out of 11 times.

India last won against Australia in the 2011 World Cup Quarter Finals, knocking Australia out of the tournament.&nbsp;

India lifted the World Cup in 2011, defeating Sri Lanka in the final.

India would have to bring their A-game on Sunday as when the last time both the teams clashed during the ODI series in India, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-west-indies-by-15-runs-in-world-cup-225096">Australia </a>staged a miraculous comeback from being 2-0 down to winning the series 3-2.

India and Australia will clash in the standout game of the World Cup so far, with Virat Kohli's men looking to beat Aaron Finch-led Australia. One of World Cup's most talked about rivalries resumes on Sunday at The Oval in London.

India and Australia will clash in the standout game of the World Cup so far, with Virat Kohli's men looking to beat Aaron Finch-led Australia. One of World Cup's most talked about rivalries resumes on Sunday at The Oval in London. India started their campaign with a six-wicket victory against a stunned South Africa. Meanwhile, Australia, with Steve Smith and David Warner back in the squad, were professional against Afghanistan and brilliant in their come-from-behind victory against the West Indies. India and Australia have played a total of 136 One Day International matches and Australia have had the better of India in 77, while India have managed to win 49 matches. At the World Cup's, India and Australia have battled each other 11 times, out of which Australia have dominated India and beat them 8 out of 11 times. India last won against Australia in the 2011 World Cup Quarter Finals, knocking Australia out of the tournament. India lifted the World Cup in 2011, defeating Sri Lanka in the final. India would have to bring their A-game on Sunday as when the last time both the teams clashed during the ODI series in India, Australia staged a miraculous comeback from being 2-0 down to winning the series 3-2.

World Cup: Head-to-head records between India and Australia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-record-breaking-mitchell-starc-becomes-fastest-to-150-odi-wickets-225244">Australian </a>team's practice session came to a temporary halt after a net bowler of Indian origin was hit on the head by a cracking drive from David Warner on the eve of their World Cup game against India.

It was during the end of the second hour when Jai Kishan, a British fast bowler of Indian origin was hit on the head trying to stop a David Warner shot.

Jai Kishan winced in pain before collapsing to the ground and the medical staff was rushed onto the field.

To everyone's relief, the player was responding as the entire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-ricky-ponting-says-marcus-stoinis-is-best-outfielder-in-australia-squad-225437">Australian </a>team stopped their session.&nbsp;

A concerned Warner sat beside the player and subsequently called off his net session.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australias-adam-zampa-reprimanded-by-icc-for-abusive-language-225273">Australian </a>team's support staff along with local staff then helped him to be stretchered off the ground and was taken to a nearby medical facility.

"I have got a hit on the head. I am doing fine. My name is Jai Kishan and I am a fast bowler," the player said before being taken into the ambulance.

It is expected that he would be under observation for a minimum of 24 hours since he sustained an injury on the head.&nbsp;

"From Surrey medical facility, he has now been taken to hospital for precautionary measures. He was conscious when he was taken to the hospital. We will provide further updates when available," ICC venue manager Michael Gibson informed the media.&nbsp;

Australian team's practice session came to a temporary halt after a net bowler of Indian origin was hit on the head by a cracking drive from David Warner on the eve of their World Cup game against India.

Australian team's practice session came to a temporary halt after a net bowler of Indian origin was hit on the head by a cracking drive from David Warner on the eve of their World Cup game against India. It was during the end of the second hour when Jai Kishan, a British fast bowler of Indian origin was hit on the head trying to stop a David Warner shot. Jai Kishan winced in pain before collapsing to the ground and the medical staff was rushed onto the field. To everyone's relief, the player was responding as the entire Australian team stopped their session. A concerned Warner sat beside the player and subsequently called off his net session. The Australian team's support staff along with local staff then helped him to be stretchered off the ground and was taken to a nearby medical facility. "I have got a hit on the head. I am doing fine. My name is Jai Kishan and I am a fast bowler," the player said before being taken into the ambulance. It is expected that he would be under observation for a minimum of 24 hours since he sustained an injury on the head. "From Surrey medical facility, he has now been taken to hospital for precautionary measures. He was conscious when he was taken to the hospital. We will provide further updates when available," ICC venue manager Michael Gibson informed the media.

World Cup: Net bowler hospitalised after getting hit on head by David Warner's shot during practice

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-gloves-row-icc-sticks-to-its-stand-denies-permission-to-wear-gloves-with-dagger-insignia-225323">put a rest to the ongoing glove row</a> by turning down the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-row-we-stand-by-dhoni-over-army-glove-insignia-issue-say-bcci-sources-225165">BCCI's</a> request to allow Dhoni to continue wearing the army insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves.

The apex cricketing body said, "The regulations for ICC events do not permit any individual message or logo to be displayed on any items of clothing or equipment. In addition to this, the logo also breaches the regulations in relation to what is permitted on wicketkeeper gloves.''

This debate started when the former India skipper, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhonikeeptheglove-twitter-welcomes-indian-cricket-boards-stand-on-dhoni-glove-row-225187">MS Dhoni</a> was spotted sporting the Army insignia in India's opening match at the World Cup against South Africa, which the ICC objected.

The regimental dagger, which is the insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces does not adhere to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-should-stand-with-ms-dhoni-says-sports-minister-kiren-rijiju-on-glove-row-225238">ICC's</a> equipment and clothing regulations.&nbsp;

In pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dhonikeeptheglove-heres-what-we-know-so-far-225305">DhoniKeepTheGlove: Support pouring in from all and sundry</a>

While the Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief, Vinod Rai welcomed the ICC's decision, the Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Rajiv Shukla said ICC should reconsider its stand.

CoA chief Vinod Rai said that there is no question of breaking the ICC's norms and consequently, they will follow the cricket governing body's decision.

"Our stand is very clear, we will conform to ICC norms. This is not a religious or a commercial message but I find that ICC has not allowed other players also for this kind of thing. We don`t suppose to escalate, we will go by ICC's norms absolutely," Rai told news agency ANI.

On the other hand, IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla said the ICC should reconsider its stand regarding the army insignia worn by MS Dhoni on his wicket-keeping gloves.

"I think the ICC should reconsider its stand. Dhoni has not done anything, which amounts to violating the rules and regulations," Rajiv Shukla told news agency ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dhonikeeptheglove-heres-what-we-know-so-far-225305">MS Dhoni</a> will not be seen wearing keeping gloves which had the dagger insignia on them when India take on Australia on June 9 at the Oval, London.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday put a rest to the ongoing glove row by turning down the BCCI's request to allow Dhoni to continue wearing the army insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday put a rest to the ongoing glove row by turning down the BCCI's request to allow Dhoni to continue wearing the army insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves. The apex cricketing body said, "The regulations for ICC events do not permit any individual message or logo to be displayed on any items of clothing or equipment. In addition to this, the logo also breaches the regulations in relation to what is permitted on wicketkeeper gloves.'' This debate started when the former India skipper, MS Dhoni was spotted sporting the Army insignia in India's opening match at the World Cup against South Africa, which the ICC objected. The regimental dagger, which is the insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces does not adhere to the ICC's equipment and clothing regulations. In pics | DhoniKeepTheGlove: Support pouring in from all and sundry While the Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief, Vinod Rai welcomed the ICC's decision, the Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Rajiv Shukla said ICC should reconsider its stand. CoA chief Vinod Rai said that there is no question of breaking the ICC's norms and consequently, they will follow the cricket governing body's decision. "Our stand is very clear, we will conform to ICC norms. This is not a religious or a commercial message but I find that ICC has not allowed other players also for this kind of thing. We don`t suppose to escalate, we will go by ICC's norms absolutely," Rai told news agency ANI. On the other hand, IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla said the ICC should reconsider its stand regarding the army insignia worn by MS Dhoni on his wicket-keeping gloves. "I think the ICC should reconsider its stand. Dhoni has not done anything, which amounts to violating the rules and regulations," Rajiv Shukla told news agency ANI. MS Dhoni will not be seen wearing keeping gloves which had the dagger insignia on them when India take on Australia on June 9 at the Oval, London.

Vinod Rai, Rajiv Shukla divided on MS Dhoni's 'balidan' badge glove controversy

Australia assistant coach Ricky Ponting is impressed with all-rounder Marcus Stoinis'&nbsp;ability to bowl overs at the death and expressed his confidence that the all-rounder can have a big impact on this World Cup.

"I just like the overall package with him. He's probably our best outfielder, you saw what he can do with the ball at the death, he gives us another string to our bow as far as his death bowling is concerned. The boys love what he brings to the side. I'm working with him a lot on a daily basis and I think he can have a big impact on this World Cup," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying.

Stoinis has displayed a brilliant form with the ball so far, as he took two wickets in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-record-breaking-mitchell-starc-becomes-fastest-to-150-odi-wickets-225244">Australia's </a>opening match against Afghanistan while giving away just 37 runs from his seven overs.

He continued his form in the second match as well.

Despite not being able to clinch a wicket, Stoinis conceded just 18 runs from his four overs against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umpiring-decisions-sent-ripples-through-the-dressing-room-brathwaite-after-australia-defeat-225114">West Indies</a>.

However, Stoinis has unable to leave a mark on the field with his batting skills.

He has batted just once in this tournament so far and scored 19 runs.

Therefore, Ponting said he is working with Stoinis to improve his batting.

"If there's been a knock on his batting, it's been that he's been a bit of a shaky nervous starter and takes a lot of balls to get moving. (Against the West Indies) he didn't (look nervous) ... he was nice and sharp. He hit the ball nicely down the ground, he hit a really good pull shot early on. I had a chat to him just after he got out and he was pretty disappointed to get out the way he did. We've been doing a lot of work on that sort of stuff with his batting," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-west-indies-by-15-runs-in-world-cup-225096">Australia </a>have won both of their first two World Cup matches and now they will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/key-battles-in-india-vs-australia-cricket-world-cup-clash-225419">compete with India </a>on June 9.&nbsp;

Australia assistant coach Ricky Ponting is impressed with all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' ability to bowl overs at the death and expressed his confidence that the all-rounder can have a big impact on this World Cup.

Australia assistant coach Ricky Ponting is impressed with all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' ability to bowl overs at the death and expressed his confidence that the all-rounder can have a big impact on this World Cup. "I just like the overall package with him. He's probably our best outfielder, you saw what he can do with the ball at the death, he gives us another string to our bow as far as his death bowling is concerned. The boys love what he brings to the side. I'm working with him a lot on a daily basis and I think he can have a big impact on this World Cup," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. Stoinis has displayed a brilliant form with the ball so far, as he took two wickets in Australia's opening match against Afghanistan while giving away just 37 runs from his seven overs. He continued his form in the second match as well. Despite not being able to clinch a wicket, Stoinis conceded just 18 runs from his four overs against West Indies. However, Stoinis has unable to leave a mark on the field with his batting skills. He has batted just once in this tournament so far and scored 19 runs. Therefore, Ponting said he is working with Stoinis to improve his batting. "If there's been a knock on his batting, it's been that he's been a bit of a shaky nervous starter and takes a lot of balls to get moving. (Against the West Indies) he didn't (look nervous) ... he was nice and sharp. He hit the ball nicely down the ground, he hit a really good pull shot early on. I had a chat to him just after he got out and he was pretty disappointed to get out the way he did. We've been doing a lot of work on that sort of stuff with his batting," he said. Australia have won both of their first two World Cup matches and now they will compete with India on June 9.

World Cup: Ricky Ponting says Marcus Stoinis is 'best outfielder' in Australia squad

Key battles in India vs Australia Cricket World Cup clash

After the ICC objected to Indian wicketkeeper batsmen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/against-regulations-icc-wants-indian-army-insignia-removed-from-ms-dhonis-gloves-225061">MS Dhoni's Army insignia</a> on his glove during the World Cup match against South Africa, sources in Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) said it stands by the former Indian captain.

Sources in BCCI said it stood by Dhoni as the insignia was neither "commercial nor religious" in nature. The insignia is&nbsp;not even of his regiment, the sources added, asserting that the board will go through the "formality of applying for permission".

Dhoni is an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment of the Territorial Army&nbsp;and dagger is part of their emblem.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ms-dhoni-falls-foul-of-icc-regulations-225178/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mahendra Singh Dhoni will continue wearing the dagger insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves as it is not a military symbol, Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief Vinod Rai said. The CoA chief informed that the BCCI has sought the ICC's permission for it.

"The BCCI had already sent a formal request to the ICC for clearance. As per ICC regulations, players can't sport any commercial, religious or military logo. There was nothing commercial or religious in this regard as we all know," Rai told PTI

"And it is not the paramilitary regimental dagger that is embossed in his gloves. So Dhoni is not in breach of ICC regulations," he added.

The CoA chief's defence is based on the fact that the para-regimental dagger logo has word 'Balidan' (sacrifice) inscribed on it, which is not the case with the logo sported by Dhoni.

Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager - Strategic Communications had objected to Dhoni's insignia, saying: "It is against the regulations and we have requested it is removed."

Furlong had added that it was a "request" for removal and not a "breach".

Meanwhile, #DhoniKeepTheGloves began trending on social media as the controversy over the insignia erupted. Indians backed Dhoni to retain the insignia.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Lt Colonel MS Dhoni is now wearing the coveted Para Wings insignia after completing his fifth jump from an Indian Air Force AN-32 aircraft as part of his training at the Paratroopers Training School (PTS) in Agra. ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepTheGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepTheGlove</a> <a href="https://t.co/NLbDxmYbqr">pic.twitter.com/NLbDxmYbqr</a>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1136871329473257473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Good to see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepTheGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepTheGlove</a> trending this morning. Lt Col MSD <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> Sir, the country is with you. <a href="https://twitter.com/AsYouNotWish?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AsYouNotWish</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TajinderBagga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TajinderBagga</a> <a href="https://t.co/QDoNxloLHm">pic.twitter.com/QDoNxloLHm</a>
— Kashyap Kadagattur 🇮🇳 (@iamkash_kr) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamkash_kr/status/1136868553150173186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dear ICC .. Balidan means sacrifice - the motto of the Indian Para Special forces. The spirit of sacrifice thats taken a fantastic human being like Dhoni to the top of his game. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepTheGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepTheGlove</a> <a href="https://t.co/qKmjBU5Itm">pic.twitter.com/qKmjBU5Itm</a>
— chandan sharma (@chandan007sallu) <a href="https://twitter.com/chandan007sallu/status/1136851655041830912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

After the ICC objected to Indian wicketkeeper batsmen MS Dhoni's Army insignia on his glove during the World Cup match against South Africa, sources in Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) said it stands by the former Indian captain.

After the ICC objected to Indian wicketkeeper batsmen MS Dhoni's Army insignia on his glove during the World Cup match against South Africa, sources in Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) said it stands by the former Indian captain. Sources in BCCI said it stood by Dhoni as the insignia was neither "commercial nor religious" in nature. The insignia is not even of his regiment, the sources added, asserting that the board will go through the "formality of applying for permission". Dhoni is an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment of the Territorial Army and dagger is part of their emblem. Mahendra Singh Dhoni will continue wearing the dagger insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves as it is not a military symbol, Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief Vinod Rai said. The CoA chief informed that the BCCI has sought the ICC's permission for it. "The BCCI had already sent a formal request to the ICC for clearance. As per ICC regulations, players can't sport any commercial, religious or military logo. There was nothing commercial or religious in this regard as we all know," Rai told PTI "And it is not the paramilitary regimental dagger that is embossed in his gloves. So Dhoni is not in breach of ICC regulations," he added. The CoA chief's defence is based on the fact that the para-regimental dagger logo has word 'Balidan' (sacrifice) inscribed on it, which is not the case with the logo sported by Dhoni. Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager - Strategic Communications had objected to Dhoni's insignia, saying: "It is against the regulations and we have requested it is removed." Furlong had added that it was a "request" for removal and not a "breach". Meanwhile, #DhoniKeepTheGloves began trending on social media as the controversy over the insignia erupted. Indians backed Dhoni to retain the insignia. Lt Colonel MS Dhoni is now wearing the coveted Para Wings insignia after completing his fifth jump from an Indian Air Force AN-32 aircraft as part of his training at the Paratroopers Training School (PTS) in Agra. ❤#DhoniKeepTheGlove pic.twitter.com/NLbDxmYbqr — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) June 7, 2019 × Good to see #DhoniKeepTheGlove trending this morning. Lt Col MSD @msdhoni Sir, the country is with you. @AsYouNotWish @TajinderBagga pic.twitter.com/QDoNxloLHm — Kashyap Kadagattur 🇮🇳 (@iamkash_kr) June 7, 2019 × Dear ICC .. Balidan means sacrifice - the motto of the Indian Para Special forces. The spirit of sacrifice thats taken a fantastic human being like Dhoni to the top of his game. #DhoniKeepTheGlove pic.twitter.com/qKmjBU5Itm — chandan sharma (@chandan007sallu) June 7, 2019 ×

Dhoni will continue wearing dagger insignia, have written to ICC: BCCI

Afghanistan's wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Shahzad ruled out of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup because of his aggravating knee injury which he picked up during the warm-up match against Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 approved Ikram Ali Khil as a replacement player for Shahzad in the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-sri-lanka-fight-back-to-beat-afghanistan-by-34-runs-224394&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLh-HP3NbiAhWY7XMBHQd6AO8QFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2COXTRL5NlyHlPBwtOWO0E">Afghanistan </a>squad for the remainder of the tournament, confirmed ICC.

Khil has played one test match and two one-day internationals, against Ireland in March.

During the very first World Cup warm-up match being played between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Shahzad scored 22 runs off 24 deliveries.&nbsp;

However, in the seventh over he was forced to retire hurt because of discomfort in his left knee.

Shahzad later missed the second warm-up match which was against England but made a comeback in the team during <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-refugee-to-afghan-world-cup-star-a-talismanic-tale-of-rashid-khan-223205&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLh-HP3NbiAhWY7XMBHQd6AO8QFjABegQIDhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw1pDXaj3Y3jiXno9GbV66BJ">Afghanistan's </a>first two World Cup matches played against Australia and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

However, Shahzad was unable to leave his mark in either of the matches as he was out on a duck against <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-2019-david-warner-stars-in-australias-rout-of-afghanistan-223509&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLh-HP3NbiAhWY7XMBHQd6AO8QFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw39p5JW84xEsV9JXHjd_o-c">Australia </a>and scored seven runs against Sri Lanka.

Before making any replacement in the squad, it is mandatory that the Event Technical Committee approves that replacement.&nbsp;

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc73697d-0ed1-478f-a9b0-a0e7f50bda56" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_24.jpg" />

Afghanistan will now play against New Zealand on June 8.&nbsp;

Afghanistan's wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Shahzad ruled out of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup because of his aggravating knee injury which he picked up during the warm-up match against Pakistan.

Afghanistan's wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Shahzad ruled out of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup because of his aggravating knee injury which he picked up during the warm-up match against Pakistan. The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 approved Ikram Ali Khil as a replacement player for Shahzad in the Afghanistan squad for the remainder of the tournament, confirmed ICC. Khil has played one test match and two one-day internationals, against Ireland in March. During the very first World Cup warm-up match being played between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Shahzad scored 22 runs off 24 deliveries. However, in the seventh over he was forced to retire hurt because of discomfort in his left knee. Shahzad later missed the second warm-up match which was against England but made a comeback in the team during Afghanistan's first two World Cup matches played against Australia and Sri Lanka. However, Shahzad was unable to leave his mark in either of the matches as he was out on a duck against Australia and scored seven runs against Sri Lanka. Before making any replacement in the squad, it is mandatory that the Event Technical Committee approves that replacement. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Afghanistan will now play against New Zealand on June 8.

Afghanistan keeper Mohammad Shahzad ruled out of World Cup 2019

#DhoniKeepTheGlove: Support pouring in from all and sundry

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-record-breaking-mitchell-starc-becomes-fastest-to-150-odi-wickets-225244">Australian </a>leg-spinner Adam Zampa has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for breaching the International Cricket Council (ICC)'s code of conduct during the World Cup match against West Indies.

Zampa was charged by the ICC for using an "audible obscenity" at the end of the 29th over of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umpiring-decisions-sent-ripples-through-the-dressing-room-brathwaite-after-australia-defeat-225114">West Indies</a> innings at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

"Zampa admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," the ICC said.

Four demerit points within a two-year period incur a ban from one-test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player.

Zampa finished with a spell of 1-58 in 10 overs to help<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-west-indies-by-15-runs-in-world-cup-225096"> Australia beat West Indies</a> by 15 runs for their second consecutive victory at the World Cup.

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for breaching the International Cricket Council (ICC)'s code of conduct during the World Cup match against West Indies.

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for breaching the International Cricket Council (ICC)'s code of conduct during the World Cup match against West Indies. Zampa was charged by the ICC for using an "audible obscenity" at the end of the 29th over of the West Indies innings at Trent Bridge on Thursday. "Zampa admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," the ICC said. Four demerit points within a two-year period incur a ban from one-test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player. Zampa finished with a spell of 1-58 in 10 overs to help Australia beat West Indies by 15 runs for their second consecutive victory at the World Cup.

World Cup: Australia's Adam Zampa reprimanded by ICC for abusive language

The credit for Australia's 15-run victory against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umpiring-decisions-sent-ripples-through-the-dressing-room-brathwaite-after-australia-defeat-225114">West Indies</a>, during their World Cup clash on Thursday, goes to pacer Mitchell Starc's record-breaking performance as he became the fastest bowler to reach the 150-wicket mark.

Starc achieved this milestone in his 77th ODI match, one match quicker than Pakistan's Saqlain Mushtaq.

He displayed an impeccable performance during the match as he clinched five wickets in the match to touch the 150-wicket milestone.

"I felt really good today (Thursday). Rhythm is starting to feel really good, and the things I've been working on the last few months are really coming to fruition, so that's a huge positive for me," Cricket.com.au quoted Starc as saying.

Interestingly, Starc, in his last two overs, conceded just two runs.

Talking on the same, Starc said he enjoys bowling death overs.

"It's something I enjoy doing, bowling at the death. Having that experience of four years ago (at the 2015 World Cup) probably helps play a part, but we've got guys that can bowl throughout an innings and bowl at the death," Starc said.

However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-west-indies-by-15-runs-in-world-cup-225096">Starc </a>was not the only one who broke a record, Nathan Coulter-Nile also got a record to his name after he smashed 92 runs, the highest ever score by an Australian batting at no 8 or lower in an ODI.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="584595c2-345d-4f5d-bd94-36ddb9695bdd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_25.jpg" />

Australia will now face India on June 9.

The credit for Australia's 15-run victory against West Indies, during their World Cup clash on Thursday, goes to pacer Mitchell Starc's record-breaking performance as he became the fastest bowler to reach the 150-wicket mark.

The credit for Australia's 15-run victory against West Indies, during their World Cup clash on Thursday, goes to pacer Mitchell Starc's record-breaking performance as he became the fastest bowler to reach the 150-wicket mark. Starc achieved this milestone in his 77th ODI match, one match quicker than Pakistan's Saqlain Mushtaq. He displayed an impeccable performance during the match as he clinched five wickets in the match to touch the 150-wicket milestone. "I felt really good today (Thursday). Rhythm is starting to feel really good, and the things I've been working on the last few months are really coming to fruition, so that's a huge positive for me," Cricket.com.au quoted Starc as saying. Interestingly, Starc, in his last two overs, conceded just two runs. Talking on the same, Starc said he enjoys bowling death overs. "It's something I enjoy doing, bowling at the death. Having that experience of four years ago (at the 2015 World Cup) probably helps play a part, but we've got guys that can bowl throughout an innings and bowl at the death," Starc said. However, Starc was not the only one who broke a record, Nathan Coulter-Nile also got a record to his name after he smashed 92 runs, the highest ever score by an Australian batting at no 8 or lower in an ODI. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia will now face India on June 9.

World Cup: Record-breaking Mitchell Starc becomes fastest to reach 150 ODI wickets

Bangladesh are no longer minnows and losing to them in the World Cup cannot be considered a 'shock' anymore, England fast bowler Liam Plunkett has said ahead of Saturday's match in Cardiff between the two sides.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-south-africa-by-21-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-223723&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjngruvjNfiAhUC7XMBHRMOCEQQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0okpOj0NXs0IaHzTpiWHPF">Bangladesh </a>sprang an early surprise in the tournament by defeating South Africa on Sunday and the Asian side have also beaten England in World Cup matches in 2011 and 2015.

"We saw Bangladesh beat South Africa and it wasn't a shock defeat. I remember when they beat England way back when and it was a shock defeat," Plunkett told a news conference.

"But there are no real shock defeats in this competition. They're a strong squad,"&nbsp;Plunkett said.

England won their first game comprehensively against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-south-africa-by-104-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-opener-222946&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiruJiHjNfiAhXS7nMBHYQkDv4QFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw23t7klsyvj671iZxRpL6_e">South Africa</a> but lost by 14 runs to Pakistan in the second and Plunkett said the sides from the sub-continent had a tendency to get under their skins.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-stun-england-by-14-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-224013&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiruJiHjNfiAhXS7nMBHYQkDv4QFjAEegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0w9b6NJIBQFkAN7DDHADuc">Pakistan </a>are pretty good like that, they can get niggly. Similarly, Bangladesh and India are good at doing that. They are good at appealing quite a lot, it's just the way they play their cricket," Plunkett, 34, added.

"But we've played in big competitions... around the world at the Indian Premier League and (Australia's) Big Bash in front of big crowds, so it shouldn't be too much for the players," Plunkett said.

Bangladesh are no longer minnows and losing to them in the World Cup cannot be considered a 'shock' anymore, England fast bowler Liam Plunkett has said ahead of Saturday's match in Cardiff between the two sides.

Bangladesh are no longer minnows and losing to them in the World Cup cannot be considered a 'shock' anymore, England fast bowler Liam Plunkett has said ahead of Saturday's match in Cardiff between the two sides. Bangladesh sprang an early surprise in the tournament by defeating South Africa on Sunday and the Asian side have also beaten England in World Cup matches in 2011 and 2015. "We saw Bangladesh beat South Africa and it wasn't a shock defeat. I remember when they beat England way back when and it was a shock defeat," Plunkett told a news conference. "But there are no real shock defeats in this competition. They're a strong squad," Plunkett said. England won their first game comprehensively against South Africa but lost by 14 runs to Pakistan in the second and Plunkett said the sides from the sub-continent had a tendency to get under their skins. "Pakistan are pretty good like that, they can get niggly. Similarly, Bangladesh and India are good at doing that. They are good at appealing quite a lot, it's just the way they play their cricket," Plunkett, 34, added. "But we've played in big competitions... around the world at the Indian Premier League and (Australia's) Big Bash in front of big crowds, so it shouldn't be too much for the players," Plunkett said.

World Cup: Sub-continent sides have tendency to get under England's skin, says Liam Plunkett

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should stand with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhonikeeptheglove-twitter-welcomes-indian-cricket-boards-stand-on-dhoni-glove-row-225187">MS Dhoni on the gloves controversy</a> as it has nothing to do with politics.

"I am hopeful that BCCI will take up this matter with ICC and will solve this matter. MS Dhoni's identity is the country's identity, army's identity and it is not politics. So, BCCI should stand with Dhoni," he told reporters.

Rijiju said the government does not intervene in the affairs of the sports bodies as the bodies are autonomous and independent.

"I would like to say very clearly that the government does not intervene in the affairs of the sports bodies. BCCI or any sports federation, they are autonomous and they run their affairs independently," he added.

Dhoni was seen donning a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-row-we-stand-by-dhoni-over-army-glove-insignia-issue-say-bcci-sources-225165">regimental dagger insignia</a> of the Indian Para Special Forces on his wicketkeeping gloves during India's World Cup 2019 opening match being played against South Africa in Southampton on Wednesday.

Rijiju also urged BCCI that they should put forward their views while keeping people's emotions in mind.

"The incident that took place during the World Cup is a thing related to India's reputation, I want to say that BCCI, on their level, should take up the matter with ICC and keeping Indian citizen's emotions in mind, they should put forward their views properly," Rijiju said.

Rijiju concluded saying that if necessary, BCCI should inform the government.

"I would like to request BCCI to take up the matter with ICC properly and if necessary inform the government accordingly," he said.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should stand with MS Dhoni on the gloves controversy as it has nothing to do with politics.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should stand with MS Dhoni on the gloves controversy as it has nothing to do with politics. "I am hopeful that BCCI will take up this matter with ICC and will solve this matter. MS Dhoni's identity is the country's identity, army's identity and it is not politics. So, BCCI should stand with Dhoni," he told reporters. Rijiju said the government does not intervene in the affairs of the sports bodies as the bodies are autonomous and independent. "I would like to say very clearly that the government does not intervene in the affairs of the sports bodies. BCCI or any sports federation, they are autonomous and they run their affairs independently," he added. Dhoni was seen donning a regimental dagger insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces on his wicketkeeping gloves during India's World Cup 2019 opening match being played against South Africa in Southampton on Wednesday. Rijiju also urged BCCI that they should put forward their views while keeping people's emotions in mind. "The incident that took place during the World Cup is a thing related to India's reputation, I want to say that BCCI, on their level, should take up the matter with ICC and keeping Indian citizen's emotions in mind, they should put forward their views properly," Rijiju said. Rijiju concluded saying that if necessary, BCCI should inform the government. "I would like to request BCCI to take up the matter with ICC properly and if necessary inform the government accordingly," he said.

BCCI should stand with MS Dhoni, says Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on glove row

No clear favourite has emerged to win the World Cup this year because the first few games have shown that all 10 teams are capable of beating each other at the tournament, former Australia skipper Allan Border has said.

Only New Zealand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-west-indies-by-15-runs-in-world-cup-225096">Australia </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhonikeeptheglove-twitter-welcomes-indian-cricket-boards-stand-on-dhoni-glove-row-225187">India </a>have not been beaten yet, with the latter two set to meet at the Oval on Sunday.

"There's no obvious runaway-looking team at the moment. All the sides are basically showing they can beat each other. That's the main thing that's come out of these early games," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council.

"I think that is how most of us expected it to be at this point, that there would be a lot of teams you expect to do well and then there would be a few surprise packages," he said.

Pakistan pulled off arguably the biggest upset so far when they beat hosts and tournament favourites England on Monday, a day after Bangladesh sprung a surprise by defeating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-regrets-south-africa-on-turning-down-ab-de-villiers-approach-224972">South Africa.</a>

Defending champions Australia beat Afghanistan comfortably in their first match but were pushed considerably harder in Thursday's 15-run victory over West Indies.

Border, who captained Australia to World Cup glory in 1987, said the team had room for improvement and would have a clearer idea of their chances after facing 2011 champions India.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-kohli-says-picking-two-spinners-was-masterstroke-in-win-against-south-africa-224854">India </a>next up will be a big stumbling block. That's a tough hurdle for Australia but once they've played a couple of decent teams, they will have a better idea of where they are at with regards to the rest of the tournament," Border&nbsp;added.

No clear favourite has emerged to win the World Cup this year because the first few games have shown that all 10 teams are capable of beating each other at the tournament, former Australia skipper Allan Border has said.

No clear favourite has emerged to win the World Cup this year because the first few games have shown that all 10 teams are capable of beating each other at the tournament, former Australia skipper Allan Border has said. Only New Zealand, Australia and India have not been beaten yet, with the latter two set to meet at the Oval on Sunday. "There's no obvious runaway-looking team at the moment. All the sides are basically showing they can beat each other. That's the main thing that's come out of these early games," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council. "I think that is how most of us expected it to be at this point, that there would be a lot of teams you expect to do well and then there would be a few surprise packages," he said. Pakistan pulled off arguably the biggest upset so far when they beat hosts and tournament favourites England on Monday, a day after Bangladesh sprung a surprise by defeating South Africa. Defending champions Australia beat Afghanistan comfortably in their first match but were pushed considerably harder in Thursday's 15-run victory over West Indies. Border, who captained Australia to World Cup glory in 1987, said the team had room for improvement and would have a clearer idea of their chances after facing 2011 champions India. "India next up will be a big stumbling block. That's a tough hurdle for Australia but once they've played a couple of decent teams, they will have a better idea of where they are at with regards to the rest of the tournament," Border added.

Virat Kohli-led India are tough hurdle for Australia at World Cup: Allan Border

During India's opening World Cup game against South Africa in Southampton, Dhoni's green keeping gloves had a dagger logo embossed, which looked like an Army insignia.&nbsp;

It was well appreciated by the Indian fans but the International Cricket Council(ICC) requested the BCCI to have the badge removed, saying it is against its regulations.&nbsp;

Twitter exploded with tweets in support of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-row-we-stand-by-dhoni-over-army-glove-insignia-issue-say-bcci-sources-225165">Dhoni </a>sporting the gloves, with politicians, Bollywood celebrities and fans tweeting.

'#DhoniKeepTheGlove' has been the top trend on Twitter since the Indian cricket board (BCCI) said it stands firmly with Dhoni against ICC’s direction to remove the Army crest.

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Can wearing territorial army insignia by a Lieutenant Colonel while representing the nation in an international event amount to any violation of rules?<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FoodForThought?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FoodForThought</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepTheGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepTheGlove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BalidaanBadge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BalidaanBadge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianTerritorialArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianTerritorialArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AanBaanShaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AanBaanShaan</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeLoveIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeLoveIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/g5mRga1Xsw">pic.twitter.com/g5mRga1Xsw</a>
— Vipul Aggarwal IPS (@ipsvipul_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ipsvipul_/status/1136864442602446848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepBalidaanBadgeGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepBalidaanBadgeGlove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dhonikeeptheglove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dhonikeeptheglove</a> 
The badge on the maroon beret speaks volume about who you are &amp; what you are capable of! The Balidaan Badge is earned by just 4-5 volunteers out of selected 100. The Balidaan Badge is only for SF badged members. <a href="https://t.co/Tt5iVDg3ho">pic.twitter.com/Tt5iVDg3ho</a>
— LambodarPrasadDash (@LambodarPrDash) <a href="https://twitter.com/LambodarPrDash/status/1136669553981677568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Indian Army has always been independent irrespective of the political party in power. We are proud of them. Lt. Col. <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> has worn the Army insignia as a symbol of pride. Doesn’t hurt anyone’s sentiments, In fact it honours the brave <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepTheGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepTheGlove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup2019</a>
— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) <a href="https://twitter.com/Riteishd/status/1136862524953858048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager - Strategic Communications had objected to Dhoni insignia, saying on Thursday: "It is against the regulations and we have requested it is removed."

Furlong had added that it was a "request" for removal and not a "breach".

Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief Vinod Rai confirmed that BCCI has written a letter to the International Cricket Council seeking permission for Dhoni to wear the gloves with the army badge.

"The BCCI had already sent a formal request to the ICC for clearance. As per ICC regulations, players can't sport any commercial, religious or military logo. There was nothing commercial or religious in this regard as we all know," Rai told news agency PTI.

"And it is not the paramilitary regimental dagger that is embossed in his gloves. So Dhoni is not in breach of ICC regulations," he added.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni will continue wearing the dagger insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves as it is not a military symbol, Rai said.

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We loved you but we now respect you like no other <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dhonikeeptheglove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dhonikeeptheglove</a> <a href="https://t.co/YYwW10j4mk">pic.twitter.com/YYwW10j4mk</a>
— Amrit Panda (@AmritPanda17) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmritPanda17/status/1136674008777101312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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ICC norms delimit not to wear Religious, Racial and Political Logo. 
 
If it is not against the ICC norms then why they are insisting him ? 
 
Dhoni, It's a matter of National pride. 
Dhoni, Keep the BALIDAAN badge. 
Dhoni, India Back your Glove.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dhonikeeptheglove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dhonikeeptheglove</a>
— Ishan Raghav (@IshanRaghav1) <a href="https://twitter.com/IshanRaghav1/status/1136667197365866496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniKeepTheGlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniKeepTheGlove</a> 
Dhoni is playing for his country and rightly as the honary Lt.Col of his regiment he has the right to express his loyalty Futher the symbol is not representing any commercial organisation. With Dhoni <a href="https://t.co/srrTMCOJ3i">pic.twitter.com/srrTMCOJ3i</a>
— DD (@DeviDatta8) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeviDatta8/status/1136656222810075136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Johri, the BCCI CEO will be reaching England before the Australia game and will be speaking to the senior ICC officials.

During India's opening World Cup game against South Africa in Southampton, Dhoni's green keeping gloves had a dagger logo embossed, which looked like an Army insignia.

During India's opening World Cup game against South Africa in Southampton, Dhoni's green keeping gloves had a dagger logo embossed, which looked like an Army insignia. It was well appreciated by the Indian fans but the International Cricket Council(ICC) requested the BCCI to have the badge removed, saying it is against its regulations. Twitter exploded with tweets in support of Dhoni sporting the gloves, with politicians, Bollywood celebrities and fans tweeting. '#DhoniKeepTheGlove' has been the top trend on Twitter since the Indian cricket board (BCCI) said it stands firmly with Dhoni against ICC’s direction to remove the Army crest. Can wearing territorial army insignia by a Lieutenant Colonel while representing the nation in an international event amount to any violation of rules?@msdhoni #FoodForThought #DhoniKeepTheGlove #BalidaanBadge #IndianTerritorialArmy #AanBaanShaan#WeLoveIndia pic.twitter.com/g5mRga1Xsw — Vipul Aggarwal IPS (@ipsvipul_) June 7, 2019 × #DhoniKeepBalidaanBadgeGlove #dhonikeeptheglove The badge on the maroon beret speaks volume about who you are & what you are capable of! The Balidaan Badge is earned by just 4-5 volunteers out of selected 100. The Balidaan Badge is only for SF badged members. pic.twitter.com/Tt5iVDg3ho — LambodarPrasadDash (@LambodarPrDash) June 6, 2019 × Indian Army has always been independent irrespective of the political party in power. We are proud of them. Lt. Col. @msdhoni has worn the Army insignia as a symbol of pride. Doesn’t hurt anyone’s sentiments, In fact it honours the brave #DhoniKeepTheGlove #WorldCup2019 — Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) June 7, 2019 × Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager - Strategic Communications had objected to Dhoni insignia, saying on Thursday: "It is against the regulations and we have requested it is removed." Furlong had added that it was a "request" for removal and not a "breach". Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief Vinod Rai confirmed that BCCI has written a letter to the International Cricket Council seeking permission for Dhoni to wear the gloves with the army badge. "The BCCI had already sent a formal request to the ICC for clearance. As per ICC regulations, players can't sport any commercial, religious or military logo. There was nothing commercial or religious in this regard as we all know," Rai told news agency PTI. "And it is not the paramilitary regimental dagger that is embossed in his gloves. So Dhoni is not in breach of ICC regulations," he added. Mahendra Singh Dhoni will continue wearing the dagger insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves as it is not a military symbol, Rai said. We loved you but we now respect you like no other #dhonikeeptheglove pic.twitter.com/YYwW10j4mk — Amrit Panda (@AmritPanda17) June 6, 2019 × ICC norms delimit not to wear Religious, Racial and Political Logo. If it is not against the ICC norms then why they are insisting him ? Dhoni, It's a matter of National pride. Dhoni, Keep the BALIDAAN badge. Dhoni, India Back your Glove.#dhonikeeptheglove — Ishan Raghav (@IshanRaghav1) June 6, 2019 × #DhoniKeepTheGlove Dhoni is playing for his country and rightly as the honary Lt.Col of his regiment he has the right to express his loyalty Futher the symbol is not representing any commercial organisation. With Dhoni pic.twitter.com/srrTMCOJ3i — DD (@DeviDatta8) June 6, 2019 × Rahul Johri, the BCCI CEO will be reaching England before the Australia game and will be speaking to the senior ICC officials.

#DhoniKeepTheGlove: Twitter welcomes Indian cricket board's stand on Dhoni glove row

South Africa are refusing to admit that their World Cup race is all but over with all-rounder Chris Morris telling fans to stick with the team despite the third loss inside a week.

They were beaten by six wickets by India at the Rose Bowl on Wednesday – leaving the side with a massive task if they are to get through to the semi-finals.

South Africa were beaten in the tournament opener by England on Thursday and were then upset by Bangladesh on Sunday.

The defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batsmen-clueless-against-bumrah-never-seen-amla-get-out-like-that-in-odis-kohli-224806">India </a>means they would really need to win all of their remaining six round-robin matches to stand any chance of progressing to the last four.

“Stranger things have happened at the World Cup before,” said Morris after top scoring for South Africa with 42 as they struggled to 227-9.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">India </a>reached the target with two and a half overs to spare.

“Obviously we are disappointed to lose three games so far but we ask the fans at home to stay with us and back us as much as you can and we will try and perform for you,” he told a news conference.

Morris said it had been a much better performance by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-quinton-de-kocks-stunning-catch-that-dismissed-indias-virat-kohli-in-world-cup-224765">South Africans</a> after their opening two losses.

“Our body language was not there in the first two games but today we addressed that. Overall I thought we were quite good," he said.

“A few opportunities came our way but then didn’t go our way. At the end of the day, if a good Indian team took so much time to get to the 227 target, it shows we bowled well. Maybe with a bit of luck, things could have gone our way.

“The guys know what is needed to be done. We are a bit disappointed and angry. But when the sun comes up tomorrow, we take on our next opponents. It is as simple as that,” Morris added.

South Africa now have a four-day break before facing West Indies in Southampton on Monday.

South Africa are refusing to admit that their World Cup race is all but over with all-rounder Chris Morris telling fans to stick with the team despite the third loss inside a week.

South Africa are refusing to admit that their World Cup race is all but over with all-rounder Chris Morris telling fans to stick with the team despite the third loss inside a week. They were beaten by six wickets by India at the Rose Bowl on Wednesday – leaving the side with a massive task if they are to get through to the semi-finals. South Africa were beaten in the tournament opener by England on Thursday and were then upset by Bangladesh on Sunday. The defeat by India means they would really need to win all of their remaining six round-robin matches to stand any chance of progressing to the last four. “Stranger things have happened at the World Cup before,” said Morris after top scoring for South Africa with 42 as they struggled to 227-9. India reached the target with two and a half overs to spare. “Obviously we are disappointed to lose three games so far but we ask the fans at home to stay with us and back us as much as you can and we will try and perform for you,” he told a news conference. Morris said it had been a much better performance by the South Africans after their opening two losses. “Our body language was not there in the first two games but today we addressed that. Overall I thought we were quite good," he said. “A few opportunities came our way but then didn’t go our way. At the end of the day, if a good Indian team took so much time to get to the 227 target, it shows we bowled well. Maybe with a bit of luck, things could have gone our way. “The guys know what is needed to be done. We are a bit disappointed and angry. But when the sun comes up tomorrow, we take on our next opponents. It is as simple as that,” Morris added. South Africa now have a four-day break before facing West Indies in Southampton on Monday.

Chris Morris urges fans to back South Africa after third loss at World Cup

India's gamble in playing two spinners in their opening World Cup match against South Africa proved to be a masterstroke as the bowlers spurred them to victory on Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batsmen-clueless-against-bumrah-never-seen-amla-get-out-like-that-in-odis-kohli-224806">captain Virat Kohli</a> said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">Indians</a>, who are chasing their third World Cup title, condemned the South Africans to their third successive loss in the tournament after Yuzvendra Chahal bamboozled the batsmen with his leg-spin as he grabbed four wickets for 51 runs, while fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with a wicket.

India coasted to a solid, if unspectacular, six-wicket victory with 15 balls remaining after opener Rohit Sharma carried his bat to score an unbeaten 122.

"Picking the two spinners were a massive factor for us," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-quinton-de-kocks-stunning-catch-that-dismissed-indias-virat-kohli-in-world-cup-224765">Kohli </a>told a news conference.

"The last time we played them, they were trying to hit boundaries rather than take singles and as a captain, I will take that any day as there is more of a risk factor in such strokes," Kohli added.

The spin duo picked up the baton after Jasprit Bumrah gave the Indians a great start by dismissing South African openers Hashim Amla and Quinton de Kock inside six overs with a devastating spell of swing bowling.

"Obviously, Bumrah is bowling at a different level and Chahal as a youngster never refuses to take the ball in any condition," added Kohli.

With South Africa restricted to 227-9 from their 50 overs on a batting-friendly wicket, India knew they did not have to take many risks to get the win on the board.

Kohli also rated Sharma's century as the best the opener has scored among the 23 tons he has notched up so far in his career.

Sharma, who got off to a nervous start with a couple of half chances, stroked 122 runs off 144 balls, peppered with 13 boundaries and two sixes.

"Some of the balls were bouncing around and there is always the temptation to hit yourself out of trouble but he brilliantly controlled his innings and held up one end and we never thought he was going to throw his wicket away," Kohli said.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b065685e-9839-4771-9721-7d157e9fa4d1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_22.jpg" />

India travel to the Oval in London on Sunday to face Australia in their next game.

India's gamble in playing two spinners in their opening World Cup match against South Africa proved to be a masterstroke as the bowlers spurred them to victory on Wednesday, captain Virat Kohli said.

India's gamble in playing two spinners in their opening World Cup match against South Africa proved to be a masterstroke as the bowlers spurred them to victory on Wednesday, captain Virat Kohli said. The Indians, who are chasing their third World Cup title, condemned the South Africans to their third successive loss in the tournament after Yuzvendra Chahal bamboozled the batsmen with his leg-spin as he grabbed four wickets for 51 runs, while fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with a wicket. India coasted to a solid, if unspectacular, six-wicket victory with 15 balls remaining after opener Rohit Sharma carried his bat to score an unbeaten 122. "Picking the two spinners were a massive factor for us," Kohli told a news conference. "The last time we played them, they were trying to hit boundaries rather than take singles and as a captain, I will take that any day as there is more of a risk factor in such strokes," Kohli added. The spin duo picked up the baton after Jasprit Bumrah gave the Indians a great start by dismissing South African openers Hashim Amla and Quinton de Kock inside six overs with a devastating spell of swing bowling. "Obviously, Bumrah is bowling at a different level and Chahal as a youngster never refuses to take the ball in any condition," added Kohli. With South Africa restricted to 227-9 from their 50 overs on a batting-friendly wicket, India knew they did not have to take many risks to get the win on the board. Kohli also rated Sharma's century as the best the opener has scored among the 23 tons he has notched up so far in his career. Sharma, who got off to a nervous start with a couple of half chances, stroked 122 runs off 144 balls, peppered with 13 boundaries and two sixes. "Some of the balls were bouncing around and there is always the temptation to hit yourself out of trouble but he brilliantly controlled his innings and held up one end and we never thought he was going to throw his wicket away," Kohli said. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India travel to the Oval in London on Sunday to face Australia in their next game.

World Cup: Kohli says, picking two spinners was masterstroke in win against South Africa