Mitchell Santner, playing only his second Cricket World Cup match, needed his steely nerves to shut out the noise from the large Bangladesh crowd at the Oval and guide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-beat-bangladesh-by-two-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224798">New Zealand to victory</a> on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old bespectacled all-rounder, who arrived at the crease with his side in danger of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, held the tail together and hit the winning runs with 17 balls remaining in the match.

Santner scored an unbeaten 17 off 12 balls and ensured the Black Caps advanced from 218-6 through to their 245-run target with his lofted off-drive from Mustafizur Rahman taking them past Bangladesh's total for two crucial competition points.

"Bangladesh were on top there for a while and you can hear it through the crowd," Santner told reporters.

"I think a big thing is communication between you and your partner. We were just trying to keep it about playing ball by ball. If they bowl a good ball then you can just try and get your ones and twos and go from there," Santner said.

Kane Williamson's side restricted the Tigers to 244 and with Williamson (40) and Ross Taylor (82) taking them through to 160-2 in the 32nd over, the 2015 World Cup finalists looked on course for an easy win.

Bangladesh's slow bowlers, however, fought back as New Zealand lost wickets at crucial junctures until Santner's 20-run stand with Matt Henry pushed them to the cusp of victory.

"I thought we were cruising there for a while, we were going to get that two or three down. But credit to the way Bangladesh bowled, they kept fighting to the end," Santner said.

It was not the first time that Santner demonstrated his calmness under pressure in one-day internationals.

Last year he smashed 45 not out from 27 balls to guide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-9-bangladesh-vs-new-zealand-224576">New Zealand</a> to a three-wicket win in Hamilton against England and followed that up with scores of 63 not out in a six-wicket loss at Mt. Maunganui.

His run out for 41 in the next game in Wellington probably cost the hosts a win in the five-run loss while he top-scored again with 67 in the fifth game against Eoin Morgan's side.

"You want to perform on the biggest stage and there's none bigger than the World Cup," said the left-arm spinner, who missed most of 2018 with a knee injury.

"It was nice to get the boys over the line. It got a bit tighter than we would have liked but we'll take the win and move on to the next game," Santner said.

Mitchell Santner, playing only his second Cricket World Cup match, needed his steely nerves to shut out the noise from the large Bangladesh crowd at the Oval and guide New Zealand to victory on Wednesday.

Mitchell Santner, playing only his second Cricket World Cup match, needed his steely nerves to shut out the noise from the large Bangladesh crowd at the Oval and guide New Zealand to victory on Wednesday. The 27-year-old bespectacled all-rounder, who arrived at the crease with his side in danger of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, held the tail together and hit the winning runs with 17 balls remaining in the match. Santner scored an unbeaten 17 off 12 balls and ensured the Black Caps advanced from 218-6 through to their 245-run target with his lofted off-drive from Mustafizur Rahman taking them past Bangladesh's total for two crucial competition points. "Bangladesh were on top there for a while and you can hear it through the crowd," Santner told reporters. "I think a big thing is communication between you and your partner. We were just trying to keep it about playing ball by ball. If they bowl a good ball then you can just try and get your ones and twos and go from there," Santner said. Kane Williamson's side restricted the Tigers to 244 and with Williamson (40) and Ross Taylor (82) taking them through to 160-2 in the 32nd over, the 2015 World Cup finalists looked on course for an easy win. Bangladesh's slow bowlers, however, fought back as New Zealand lost wickets at crucial junctures until Santner's 20-run stand with Matt Henry pushed them to the cusp of victory. "I thought we were cruising there for a while, we were going to get that two or three down. But credit to the way Bangladesh bowled, they kept fighting to the end," Santner said. It was not the first time that Santner demonstrated his calmness under pressure in one-day internationals. Last year he smashed 45 not out from 27 balls to guide New Zealand to a three-wicket win in Hamilton against England and followed that up with scores of 63 not out in a six-wicket loss at Mt. Maunganui. His run out for 41 in the next game in Wellington probably cost the hosts a win in the five-run loss while he top-scored again with 67 in the fifth game against Eoin Morgan's side. "You want to perform on the biggest stage and there's none bigger than the World Cup," said the left-arm spinner, who missed most of 2018 with a knee injury. "It was nice to get the boys over the line. It got a bit tighter than we would have liked but we'll take the win and move on to the next game," Santner said.

World Cup: Ice-cold Mitchell Santner showcases finishing ability, takes New Zealand past Bangladesh

India captain Virat Kohli praised paceman Jasprit Bumrah for leading an impressive bowling unit in his team's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">opening win in the World Cup against South Africa </a>on Wednesday.

Bumrah, the world's top-ranked one-day international bowler, struck early to remove the South African openers including Hashim Amla for six, in India's six-wicket win in Southampton.&nbsp;

Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was the pick of the Indian bowlers, with figures of 4-51 that came after Bumrah's early assault on a cloudy morning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-quinton-de-kocks-stunning-catch-that-dismissed-indias-virat-kohli-in-world-cup-224765">Kohli said the 25-year-old Bumrah</a> would be a "massive factor" for his team at the 50-over showpiece event.

"The way he's bowling right now, it's so good to see because you see batsmen literally clueless against him and he's rushing people," said Kohli of his pace ace.

"To be honest, I haven't seen Hashim get out like that in one-day cricket... I think it's a great thing and it's a testimony to his hard work."

"He understands this is his time and he's making the most of it so hats off, he's brilliant. He's going to be a massive factor for us here."

Bumrah had the white ball darting around in Southampton as he got Amla to edge a rising delivery to Rohit Sharma at second slip.

Bumrah then struck again in his next over, with Quinton de Kock, who made 10, edging to Kohli at third slip, meaning South Africa were two down for 24.

"Well, one thing you know with facing Jasprit is you have to play good cricketing shots against him and you have to back your technique against him," said Kohli.

"Because if you are hesitant a little bit, he senses that and he's all over you."

Chahal soon took over with his leg spin to strike twice in an over including the big wicket of South African captain Faf du Plessis for 38.

Chahal wrecked the South African middle order with good support from spin partner Kuldeep Yadav, who chipped in with 1-46.

"I think Kuldeep bowled really well, he controlled the game from one end and I think Chahal was outstanding," said Kohli of the spin twins.

"Even with a little bit of turn and help from the pitch, what he was able to bring out of the wicket was truly brilliant to see. He has mental belief in his strength and full credit goes to him."

India next play Australia at the Oval on Sunday.

India captain Virat Kohli praised paceman Jasprit Bumrah for leading an impressive bowling unit in his team's opening win in the World Cup against South Africa on Wednesday.

India captain Virat Kohli praised paceman Jasprit Bumrah for leading an impressive bowling unit in his team's opening win in the World Cup against South Africa on Wednesday. Bumrah, the world's top-ranked one-day international bowler, struck early to remove the South African openers including Hashim Amla for six, in India's six-wicket win in Southampton. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was the pick of the Indian bowlers, with figures of 4-51 that came after Bumrah's early assault on a cloudy morning. Kohli said the 25-year-old Bumrah would be a "massive factor" for his team at the 50-over showpiece event. "The way he's bowling right now, it's so good to see because you see batsmen literally clueless against him and he's rushing people," said Kohli of his pace ace. "To be honest, I haven't seen Hashim get out like that in one-day cricket... I think it's a great thing and it's a testimony to his hard work." "He understands this is his time and he's making the most of it so hats off, he's brilliant. He's going to be a massive factor for us here." Bumrah had the white ball darting around in Southampton as he got Amla to edge a rising delivery to Rohit Sharma at second slip. Bumrah then struck again in his next over, with Quinton de Kock, who made 10, edging to Kohli at third slip, meaning South Africa were two down for 24. "Well, one thing you know with facing Jasprit is you have to play good cricketing shots against him and you have to back your technique against him," said Kohli. "Because if you are hesitant a little bit, he senses that and he's all over you." Chahal soon took over with his leg spin to strike twice in an over including the big wicket of South African captain Faf du Plessis for 38. Chahal wrecked the South African middle order with good support from spin partner Kuldeep Yadav, who chipped in with 1-46. "I think Kuldeep bowled really well, he controlled the game from one end and I think Chahal was outstanding," said Kohli of the spin twins. "Even with a little bit of turn and help from the pitch, what he was able to bring out of the wicket was truly brilliant to see. He has mental belief in his strength and full credit goes to him." India next play Australia at the Oval on Sunday.

Batsmen clueless against Bumrah, never seen Amla get out like that in ODIs: Kohli

Major takeaways from first week of the Cricket World Cup 2019

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who bowled an impeccable spell during India's opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Wednesday, revealed that the wicket of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batsmen-clueless-against-bumrah-never-seen-amla-get-out-like-that-in-odis-kohli-224806">South Africa</a> skipper Faf du Plessis was his favourite.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-kohli-says-picking-two-spinners-was-masterstroke-in-win-against-south-africa-224854">Chahal </a>took four wickets and was having a candid conversation with Kuldeep Yadav post the match where the latter asked him about his favourite wicket.

"Faf's wicket was the best as he was playing with small forward-steps and I was drifting the ball really well. The previous two balls, I had bowled him leg spin. So on that ball, I chose to bowl on an angle so the ball drifts and hit the off stump. He couldn't pick it, he thought it was a leg spin, and that's why the ball hit the inside of his bat and hit the stumps," Chahal said in a video posted by Bcci.tv.

Rohit Sharma also displayed a brilliant performance with the bat as he hammered a century to help his side chase down a modest target of 228.

Sharma played an unbeaten knock of 122 runs off 144 balls and Chahal eulogised Sharma for his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">match-winning</a> knock.

"The way Rohit Sharma played his inning, especially on this wicket; he showed the temperament that how a batsman should bat. In the beginning, it was not easy but he finished the match which is a plus point," he 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="bcbfec5e-c887-4e34-a058-90f052993874" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_23.jpg" />

India will now face Australia on June 9.

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who bowled an impeccable spell during India's opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Wednesday, revealed that the wicket of South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis was his favourite.

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who bowled an impeccable spell during India's opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Wednesday, revealed that the wicket of South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis was his favourite. Chahal took four wickets and was having a candid conversation with Kuldeep Yadav post the match where the latter asked him about his favourite wicket. "Faf's wicket was the best as he was playing with small forward-steps and I was drifting the ball really well. The previous two balls, I had bowled him leg spin. So on that ball, I chose to bowl on an angle so the ball drifts and hit the off stump. He couldn't pick it, he thought it was a leg spin, and that's why the ball hit the inside of his bat and hit the stumps," Chahal said in a video posted by Bcci.tv. Rohit Sharma also displayed a brilliant performance with the bat as he hammered a century to help his side chase down a modest target of 228. Sharma played an unbeaten knock of 122 runs off 144 balls and Chahal eulogised Sharma for his match-winning knock. "The way Rohit Sharma played his inning, especially on this wicket; he showed the temperament that how a batsman should bat. In the beginning, it was not easy but he finished the match which is a plus point," he said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India will now face Australia on June 9.

World Cup: Yuzvendra Chahal terms Faf du Plessis' wicket as 'favourite'

West Indies captain Jason Holder is playing down his team's traditional rivalry with Australia ahead of the Cricket World Cup match between the sides at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-beat-pakistan-by-seven-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-223250&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjm-YmisNTiAhVCK48KHYK1C78QFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1HrDnWoQPPTsmq6dUpLPbZ">West Indies</a> beat Australia in the first World Cup final in 1975 and although the fortunes of the once all-conquering Caribbean team have declined, the history between the sides should ensure a compelling game.

"It's always been a great rivalry between West Indies and Australia," Holder told reporters on Wednesday.

"I think everybody is expecting a really good contest. We're up for the challenge. I think they're up for the challenge as well. I'm not caught up with the rivalry. It's a matter for us to go into tomorrow's game looking to execute our plans and beat Australia," Holder said.

Both teams won their opening matches of the tournament, West Indies crushing Pakistan by seven wickets at Trent Bridge.

"We obviously had one game here before. We bowled 22 overs in the game. We didn't get a full allotment. But having said that, we've got a little bit of knowledge about the ground, how the wicket plays," Holder said.

Pakistan beat World Cup favourites and hosts England in their second match and Holder is not getting carried away.

"As I said, it's a wide-open tournament," he said. "All 10 teams are capable of lifting the World Cup. That's why we're here, they're the 10 best teams in the world.''

"So I wouldn't get into the games that have been played. I just want to keep moving forward. We've got Australia tomorrow, and that's our next hurdle, and that's what I want to focus on. It's just a matter of playing good cricket on any given day. We want to execute in all three departments. We just want to be as positive as we possibly can be. The intent is something that we spoke about in the dressing room," the Windies captain said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-2-pakistan-vs-west-indies-223120&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjm-YmisNTiAhVCK48KHYK1C78QFjAHegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw09O0sQYevWdMEJ-y7uhPam">West Indies</a> have had fitness concerns over destructive opening batsman Chris Gayle and all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-a-fast-bowler-thunders-andre-russell-after-startling-pakistan-in-their-world-cup-opener-223332&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwzJ7YsNTiAhU76nMBHaBvBHEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0pRCzDva4If9CpT9QwzpCW">Andre Russell.</a>

"I think the beauty with both of those guys is they've played enough cricket," Holder said.

"We just tend to trust them, take their word and then make a final decision. Chris was at practice for the last couple of days, so Chris for me is all well and ready to go. Andre will be obviously assessed, and we're very, very hopeful that he'll be fit," Holder said.

West Indies captain Jason Holder is playing down his team's traditional rivalry with Australia ahead of the Cricket World Cup match between the sides at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

West Indies captain Jason Holder is playing down his team's traditional rivalry with Australia ahead of the Cricket World Cup match between the sides at Trent Bridge on Thursday. West Indies beat Australia in the first World Cup final in 1975 and although the fortunes of the once all-conquering Caribbean team have declined, the history between the sides should ensure a compelling game. "It's always been a great rivalry between West Indies and Australia," Holder told reporters on Wednesday. "I think everybody is expecting a really good contest. We're up for the challenge. I think they're up for the challenge as well. I'm not caught up with the rivalry. It's a matter for us to go into tomorrow's game looking to execute our plans and beat Australia," Holder said. Both teams won their opening matches of the tournament, West Indies crushing Pakistan by seven wickets at Trent Bridge. "We obviously had one game here before. We bowled 22 overs in the game. We didn't get a full allotment. But having said that, we've got a little bit of knowledge about the ground, how the wicket plays," Holder said. Pakistan beat World Cup favourites and hosts England in their second match and Holder is not getting carried away. "As I said, it's a wide-open tournament," he said. "All 10 teams are capable of lifting the World Cup. That's why we're here, they're the 10 best teams in the world.'' "So I wouldn't get into the games that have been played. I just want to keep moving forward. We've got Australia tomorrow, and that's our next hurdle, and that's what I want to focus on. It's just a matter of playing good cricket on any given day. We want to execute in all three departments. We just want to be as positive as we possibly can be. The intent is something that we spoke about in the dressing room," the Windies captain said. West Indies have had fitness concerns over destructive opening batsman Chris Gayle and all-rounder Andre Russell. "I think the beauty with both of those guys is they've played enough cricket," Holder said. "We just tend to trust them, take their word and then make a final decision. Chris was at practice for the last couple of days, so Chris for me is all well and ready to go. Andre will be obviously assessed, and we're very, very hopeful that he'll be fit," Holder said.

World Cup: Windies captain jason Holder plays down Australia rivalry

Ahead of India opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, India batsman Yusuf Pathan has expressed his confidence in the team, saying that team's performance in the last many years has been really good and players are in good form.

"I wish 'Eid Mubarak'&nbsp;to everyone. Indian team's preparation has been very good and they have been playing very good cricket in the last many years and also all the players were in good form during the IPL. It is a big tournament. Inshallah, they will do good," Pathan told ANI on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-virat-kohlis-india-begins-campaign-against-stunned-south-africa-224406">India's first match</a> in the premier tournament will be played against South Africa, who are playing their third match of the tournament.

However, South Africa are on a dismal run as they have lost both the matches.

During the opening match of the World Cup, South Africa faced a massive 104-run defeat at the hands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-chris-woakes-backs-england-to-bounce-back-from-pakistan-defeat-224431">England</a>, followed by a 21-run defeat against Bangladesh.

Therefore, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-can-still-reach-world-cup-semis-without-steyn-says-faf-du-plessis-224351">South Africa</a> will be aiming to make a strong comeback in the tournament, but nothing is going well for the Proteas.

Hashim Amla and Lungi Ngidi missed their previous clash against Bangladesh as the former faced a blow to head during their match against England while the latter suffered a hamstring injury.

Moreover, Dale Steyn has also been ruled out of the World Cup owing to shoulder injury.

India, who are one of the favourites in the tournament, have a strong squad under the leadership of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-expect-century-but-my-focus-is-on-victory-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-south-africa-clash-224280">Virat Kohli </a>and the team also feature 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni.

It will, therefore, be interesting to see whether South Africa manage to revive themselves or India justify their favourite tag.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7bd3766-faf0-4a67-b48e-d6f09fb369c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_21.jpg" />

India will compete with South Africa at the Rose Bowl cricket ground on June 5.

Ahead of India opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, India batsman Yusuf Pathan has expressed his confidence in the team, saying that team's performance in the last many years has been really good and players are in good form.

Ahead of India opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, India batsman Yusuf Pathan has expressed his confidence in the team, saying that team's performance in the last many years has been really good and players are in good form. "I wish 'Eid Mubarak' to everyone. Indian team's preparation has been very good and they have been playing very good cricket in the last many years and also all the players were in good form during the IPL. It is a big tournament. Inshallah, they will do good," Pathan told ANI on Wednesday. India's first match in the premier tournament will be played against South Africa, who are playing their third match of the tournament. However, South Africa are on a dismal run as they have lost both the matches. During the opening match of the World Cup, South Africa faced a massive 104-run defeat at the hands of England, followed by a 21-run defeat against Bangladesh. Therefore, South Africa will be aiming to make a strong comeback in the tournament, but nothing is going well for the Proteas. Hashim Amla and Lungi Ngidi missed their previous clash against Bangladesh as the former faced a blow to head during their match against England while the latter suffered a hamstring injury. Moreover, Dale Steyn has also been ruled out of the World Cup owing to shoulder injury. India, who are one of the favourites in the tournament, have a strong squad under the leadership of Virat Kohli and the team also feature 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni. It will, therefore, be interesting to see whether South Africa manage to revive themselves or India justify their favourite tag. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India will compete with South Africa at the Rose Bowl cricket ground on June 5.

World Cup: Yusuf Pathan confident of India doing well ahead of opener with South Africa

Bangladesh coach Steve Rhodes spoke of his respect on Tuesday for the way his players handled themselves after the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-in-christchurch-for-remembrance-service-after-mass-shooting-206390&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwievKek29HiAhVZ7XMBHYTNCxMQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw38z3lHbChpcpXJvtFtHlAL">Christchurch mosque attacks</a> earlier this year.

The team narrowly escaped the attacks that killed 51 people in New Zealand in March during their tour of the country.

Rhodes is preparing his side to face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-new-zealand-beat-sri-lanka-by-10-wickets-223464">New Zealand</a> at the Oval on Wednesday after they beat South Africa in their opening World Cup match.

"I have got so much respect for the players, the way that they have handled themselves after that event, the way that they have got themselves through it all," he said at his pre-match press conference.

"They are just celebrating Eid now, the end of Ramadan. That's been tough for many of the boys.&nbsp;The experience they went through, they went through together on that coach, and I think it somehow gelled them and I think that they have actually got solace from each other," Rhodes said.

"There's a lot of smiley faces at the moment, and going back to that day in<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/christchurch-mosque-attack-bangladesh-cricket-team-was-about-to-go-inside-safe-but-mentally-shocked-203418&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiA_Jy229HiAhUJp48KHbA_BvYQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dIR3CAH9iGY534mEIMymF"> Christchurch,</a> I was thinking, how do we get a team back together after. But they have done it," he added.

Rhodes said Bangladesh did not want to get carried away with their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-south-africa-by-21-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-223723">victory against South Africa</a>.

"We know the people back home are delighted and obviously jumping up and down with what we've done in beating South Africa," he said.

"But the team and the staff, they know that the task is going to be tough against some of these teams, and New Zealand are just one of those sides where they gave us decent hiding this winter, and we're hopeful that we are in better shape,'' Rhodes said.

"The answer is, we are in better shape, taking them on this time around. But they are a tough opposition, like many of the top four or five teams in the world, and it will be difficult," added Rhodes.

Bangladesh coach Steve Rhodes spoke of his respect on Tuesday for the way his players handled themselves after the Christchurch mosque attacks earlier this year.

Bangladesh coach Steve Rhodes spoke of his respect on Tuesday for the way his players handled themselves after the Christchurch mosque attacks earlier this year. The team narrowly escaped the attacks that killed 51 people in New Zealand in March during their tour of the country. Rhodes is preparing his side to face New Zealand at the Oval on Wednesday after they beat South Africa in their opening World Cup match. "I have got so much respect for the players, the way that they have handled themselves after that event, the way that they have got themselves through it all," he said at his pre-match press conference. "They are just celebrating Eid now, the end of Ramadan. That's been tough for many of the boys. The experience they went through, they went through together on that coach, and I think it somehow gelled them and I think that they have actually got solace from each other," Rhodes said. "There's a lot of smiley faces at the moment, and going back to that day in Christchurch, I was thinking, how do we get a team back together after. But they have done it," he added. Rhodes said Bangladesh did not want to get carried away with their victory against South Africa. "We know the people back home are delighted and obviously jumping up and down with what we've done in beating South Africa," he said. "But the team and the staff, they know that the task is going to be tough against some of these teams, and New Zealand are just one of those sides where they gave us decent hiding this winter, and we're hopeful that we are in better shape,'' Rhodes said. "The answer is, we are in better shape, taking them on this time around. But they are a tough opposition, like many of the top four or five teams in the world, and it will be difficult," added Rhodes.

Christchurch attacks 'gelled' Bangladesh ahead of the World Cup, says coach Rhodes

Sri Lanka's batsmen need to apply themselves better if the team are to avoid a repeat of the middle order collapse they suffered in Tuesday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-sri-lanka-fight-back-to-beat-afghanistan-by-34-runs-224394">34-run World Cup victory</a> over Afghanistan, former captain Mahela Jayawardene has said.

Sri Lanka made a promising start in Cardiff and were 144 for two at one point thanks to Kusal Perera's 78 off 81 balls, but lost four wickets for five runs and were all out for 201 in the 37th over.

Afghanistan spinner Mohammad Nabi took three wickets in a single over to leave the Lankans struggling at 149-5 and Jayawardene said the string of soft dismissals was cause for concern.

"The way Sri Lanka lost wickets... in the middle order is a real concern and there were too many soft dismissals," he wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council.

"Looking at the wicket... this was never going to be a high-scoring game. However, there's no question that Sri Lanka could have batted better. They should have been looking at 250 plus," he said.

Lankan coach Chandika Hathurusingha said his batsmen were suffering from a crisis of confidence that had been exacerbated by the bowler-friendly conditions.

"When a batsman is in it looked an easy wicket to bat on but we lost one wicket and then we lost three wickets in one over," Hathurusingha said.

"There were a lot of tentative shots, that was the cause of some of the dismissals. We're lacking in confidence... we allowed them to come into the game,"&nbsp;Hathurusingha added.

Sri Lanka arrived at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-virat-kohlis-india-begins-campaign-against-stunned-south-africa-224406">World Cup</a> in patchy form, losing two warm-up games against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-south-african-pacer-dale-steyn-ruled-out-of-tournament-due-to-shoulder-injury-224247">South Africa</a> and Australia before being beaten by New Zealand by 10 wickets in their first match of the tournament.

Against Afghanistan, they needed pace bowlers Nuwan Pradeep (4-31) and Lasith Malinga (3-39) to help guide them over the line and Hathurusingha said getting their first win would help build confidence for the rest of the tournament.

"This gives us a lot of confidence because we really needed a win. We haven't had much success lately. I'm sure you will see a better team, a better approach from our team after this win. We needed this win badly," he said.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aea1fac7-c031-4be6-986d-cc0994304bc3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_20.jpg" />

Sri Lanka next play Pakistan on Friday.

Sri Lanka's batsmen need to apply themselves better if the team are to avoid a repeat of the middle order collapse they suffered in Tuesday's 34-run World Cup victory over Afghanistan, former captain Mahela Jayawardene has said.

Sri Lanka's batsmen need to apply themselves better if the team are to avoid a repeat of the middle order collapse they suffered in Tuesday's 34-run World Cup victory over Afghanistan, former captain Mahela Jayawardene has said. Sri Lanka made a promising start in Cardiff and were 144 for two at one point thanks to Kusal Perera's 78 off 81 balls, but lost four wickets for five runs and were all out for 201 in the 37th over. Afghanistan spinner Mohammad Nabi took three wickets in a single over to leave the Lankans struggling at 149-5 and Jayawardene said the string of soft dismissals was cause for concern. "The way Sri Lanka lost wickets... in the middle order is a real concern and there were too many soft dismissals," he wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council. "Looking at the wicket... this was never going to be a high-scoring game. However, there's no question that Sri Lanka could have batted better. They should have been looking at 250 plus," he said. Lankan coach Chandika Hathurusingha said his batsmen were suffering from a crisis of confidence that had been exacerbated by the bowler-friendly conditions. "When a batsman is in it looked an easy wicket to bat on but we lost one wicket and then we lost three wickets in one over," Hathurusingha said. "There were a lot of tentative shots, that was the cause of some of the dismissals. We're lacking in confidence... we allowed them to come into the game," Hathurusingha added. Sri Lanka arrived at the World Cup in patchy form, losing two warm-up games against South Africa and Australia before being beaten by New Zealand by 10 wickets in their first match of the tournament. Against Afghanistan, they needed pace bowlers Nuwan Pradeep (4-31) and Lasith Malinga (3-39) to help guide them over the line and Hathurusingha said getting their first win would help build confidence for the rest of the tournament. "This gives us a lot of confidence because we really needed a win. We haven't had much success lately. I'm sure you will see a better team, a better approach from our team after this win. We needed this win badly," he said. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Sri Lanka next play Pakistan on Friday.

Former captain Mahela Jayawardene concerned by Sri Lanka's middle order at the World Cup

England's narrow defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inept-to-inspiring-i-always-say-be-patient-with-us-says-captain-sarfaraz-after-beating-england-224025">Pakistan </a>in their second World Cup match was by no means a 'car crash' and the hosts are determined to bounce back quickly from the disappointment, fast bowler Chris Woakes has said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-joe-root-scores-first-hundred-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-223998">England </a>thumped South Africa in their World Cup opener but fell 14 runs short of Pakistan in their second game of the tournament at Trent Bridge on Monday.

Woakes, who took three wickets against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-stun-england-by-14-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-224013">Pakistan </a>but also conceded 71 runs in his eight overs, added that England were probably better off for getting their first defeat of the tournament out of the way early.

"You probably want to lose one earlier rather than later. You don't want to produce a performance as we did against Pakistan in a more high-pressure game, maybe a must-win or something," he told reporters.

"The good thing about this group is that when we've had a bad performance or lost a game of cricket, we bounce back very well," Woakes said.

England next face Bangladesh in Cardiff on Saturday and Woakes said the squad would try and put a stop to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-england-skipper-eoin-morgan-says-fielding-let-team-down-in-loss-against-pakistan-224075">fielding errors that had cost them against Pakistan</a>.

"Against South Africa, we put in an unbelievable fielding performance. We know that's our standard, so whenever you drop below that you're always going to be a little bit disappointed," the 30-year-old added.

"Fielding creates momentum for a team – if you're fielding well, constantly taking diving stops, stopping those twos and putting the batsman under pressure then it makes a difference. I don't think it was a car crash by any means, we just left a few out there. We'll get back on the practice field, put in a hard shift and try and practice some of the things we didn't get quite right," said Woakes.

England's narrow defeat by Pakistan in their second World Cup match was by no means a 'car crash' and the hosts are determined to bounce back quickly from the disappointment, fast bowler Chris Woakes has said.

England's narrow defeat by Pakistan in their second World Cup match was by no means a 'car crash' and the hosts are determined to bounce back quickly from the disappointment, fast bowler Chris Woakes has said. England thumped South Africa in their World Cup opener but fell 14 runs short of Pakistan in their second game of the tournament at Trent Bridge on Monday. Woakes, who took three wickets against Pakistan but also conceded 71 runs in his eight overs, added that England were probably better off for getting their first defeat of the tournament out of the way early. "You probably want to lose one earlier rather than later. You don't want to produce a performance as we did against Pakistan in a more high-pressure game, maybe a must-win or something," he told reporters. "The good thing about this group is that when we've had a bad performance or lost a game of cricket, we bounce back very well," Woakes said. England next face Bangladesh in Cardiff on Saturday and Woakes said the squad would try and put a stop to the fielding errors that had cost them against Pakistan. "Against South Africa, we put in an unbelievable fielding performance. We know that's our standard, so whenever you drop below that you're always going to be a little bit disappointed," the 30-year-old added. "Fielding creates momentum for a team – if you're fielding well, constantly taking diving stops, stopping those twos and putting the batsman under pressure then it makes a difference. I don't think it was a car crash by any means, we just left a few out there. We'll get back on the practice field, put in a hard shift and try and practice some of the things we didn't get quite right," said Woakes.

World Cup: Chris Woakes backs England to bounce back from Pakistan defeat

Justin Langer has hailed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-waugh-ranks-dangerous-windies-as-world-cups-most-watchable-side-224066">West Indies'</a> "Calypso cricket", admitting they were his heroes when he was growing up as he prepares Australia to face their current battery of fast bowlers.

The two teams, who have won seven out of the 11 World Cups so far between them, meet at Trent Bridge on Thursday after both cruised to comfortable opening victories.&nbsp;

Head coach Langer said defending champions Australia would need to adjust their mindset to take on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-a-fast-bowler-thunders-andre-russell-after-startling-pakistan-in-their-world-cup-opener-223332">West Indies quicks and other fast bowlers</a> at the tournament in England and Wales.

"We've probably spent four months thinking and playing against spin bowling," he said on Tuesday.

"We have to adapt to the West Indies no doubt, who have got a number of good, fast bowlers. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-south-african-pacer-dale-steyn-ruled-out-of-tournament-due-to-shoulder-injury-224247">South Africa</a> will be the same. England will be the same. Have to adapt our game plan and adapt pretty quickly.&nbsp;Obviously a very dangerous team the way they bat and aggressive bowling, but they've got weaknesses as well and we're playing pretty good cricket," said Langer.

West Indies, who won the first two World Cups, in 1975 and 1979, were the dominant force in the world game for two decades and boasted a succession of world-class fast bowlers and thrilling batsmen.

"When I was a kid it was Calypso cricket, and I think we're seeing plenty of signs of Calypso cricket," Langer said.&nbsp;

"Running and bowling fast. They're not necessarily going to be bowling the same spot every ball, but going to be exciting to watch. They all try to hit sixes most balls so Darren Bravo's probably a little bit more unorthodox.&nbsp;Always exciting playing the West Indies. When I was growing up they were my heroes," added Langer.

Langer described veteran opener Chris Gayle, who scored 50 in the West Indies' seven-wicket victory against Pakistan, as a "brilliant player".

"They got a number of dangerous players. With him&nbsp;on the team&nbsp;they seemed to grow a leg. They take confidence from him. Again, hopefully, don't take too much confidence on Thursday," he said.

Australia were on the end of a thumping last year when England posted a world record one-day international score of 481 for six at Trent Bridge and Langer described the experience as "brutal".

"Had some really good times here at Trent Bridge and last year was a down," he said.

Langer welcomed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-english-crowds-stupid-to-boo-david-warner-says-manager-224097">David Warner's</a> innings of 89 not out in Australia's win against Afghanistan, his first official international match since completing a one-year ban for ball tampering.

"You can see the look in his eyes. A lot of people are talking. Looks determined. For him to battle through 90 or 80, whatever it was, and to still be there at the end and get the job done for the team, that's a great sign for us," Langer said.

Justin Langer has hailed the West Indies' "Calypso cricket", admitting they were his heroes when he was growing up as he prepares Australia to face their current battery of fast bowlers.

Justin Langer has hailed the West Indies' "Calypso cricket", admitting they were his heroes when he was growing up as he prepares Australia to face their current battery of fast bowlers. The two teams, who have won seven out of the 11 World Cups so far between them, meet at Trent Bridge on Thursday after both cruised to comfortable opening victories. Head coach Langer said defending champions Australia would need to adjust their mindset to take on the West Indies quicks and other fast bowlers at the tournament in England and Wales. "We've probably spent four months thinking and playing against spin bowling," he said on Tuesday. "We have to adapt to the West Indies no doubt, who have got a number of good, fast bowlers. South Africa will be the same. England will be the same. Have to adapt our game plan and adapt pretty quickly. Obviously a very dangerous team the way they bat and aggressive bowling, but they've got weaknesses as well and we're playing pretty good cricket," said Langer. West Indies, who won the first two World Cups, in 1975 and 1979, were the dominant force in the world game for two decades and boasted a succession of world-class fast bowlers and thrilling batsmen. "When I was a kid it was Calypso cricket, and I think we're seeing plenty of signs of Calypso cricket," Langer said. "Running and bowling fast. They're not necessarily going to be bowling the same spot every ball, but going to be exciting to watch. They all try to hit sixes most balls so Darren Bravo's probably a little bit more unorthodox. Always exciting playing the West Indies. When I was growing up they were my heroes," added Langer. Langer described veteran opener Chris Gayle, who scored 50 in the West Indies' seven-wicket victory against Pakistan, as a "brilliant player". "They got a number of dangerous players. With him on the team they seemed to grow a leg. They take confidence from him. Again, hopefully, don't take too much confidence on Thursday," he said. Australia were on the end of a thumping last year when England posted a world record one-day international score of 481 for six at Trent Bridge and Langer described the experience as "brutal". "Had some really good times here at Trent Bridge and last year was a down," he said. Langer welcomed David Warner's innings of 89 not out in Australia's win against Afghanistan, his first official international match since completing a one-year ban for ball tampering. "You can see the look in his eyes. A lot of people are talking. Looks determined. For him to battle through 90 or 80, whatever it was, and to still be there at the end and get the job done for the team, that's a great sign for us," Langer said.

Coach Justin Langer prepares Australia for West Indies World Cup pace test

Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their 2019 World Cup campaign against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/key-players-in-india-vs-south-africa-world-cup-clash-224311">South Africa today at Southampton</a>.&nbsp;

All the participating teams have played at least one match in the ongoing edition and now the 'Men in Blue' will begin their quest to win the World Cup for the third time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/major-takeaways-from-virat-kohlis-pre-match-press-conference-ahead-of-world-cup-match-against-south-africa-224395">Also Read: Major takeaways from Kohli's pre-match press conference ahead of South Africa encounter</a>

South Africa, on the other hand, have had a disappointing start in the World Cup, losing both matches they have played so far. They lost to hosts England by 104 runs, then slipped to a 21-run loss to Bangladesh on Sunday. &nbsp;

It couldn't get worse for captain Faf du Plessis after star pacers Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi suffered injuries. &nbsp;

Ngidi will back in the squad within the next 10 days but legendary fast bowler Steyn has been ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover from a&nbsp;shoulder injury.&nbsp;

India, however, are fresh and are all geared up for their campaign opener. &nbsp;

India will be&nbsp;starting their campaign late but skipper Virat Kohli termed it as team's "advantage" as the players are well aware of the conditions and pitch&nbsp;behaviour.&nbsp;

Conditions:&nbsp;

The forecast suggests that Southampton will be cloudy and there could be light showers but chances of a downpour are very less. However, it had rained here a day earlier, so the Indian cricket fans will be keeping their fingers crossed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Overall, the conditions suggest that it is going to be a batting-friendly match, similar to what we have seen in the last ODI contest at this venue&nbsp;between England and Pakistan in which 734 runs were scored in 100 overs.&nbsp;

Head-to-head:&nbsp;

India and South Africa's ODI rivalry has a long history considering the number of matches they have played together. &nbsp;

Both the team have played a total of 83 ODI matches, India have won 34 and South Africa has emerged victorious in 46 games.&nbsp;

Three matches have ended without any result.&nbsp;

In World Cups, both the teams have met four times and South Africa have won thrice. &nbsp;

But since 2012, India has defeated South Africa in all five ICC events (not bilateral series) they have played which includes the 2013 and 2017 Champions Trophy, in 2012 and 2014 World T20 and in the 2015 World Cup.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their 2019 World Cup campaign against South Africa today at Southampton. All the participating teams have played at least one match in the ongoing edition and now the 'Men in Blue' will begin their quest to win the World Cup for the third time.

Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their 2019 World Cup campaign against South Africa today at Southampton. All the participating teams have played at least one match in the ongoing edition and now the 'Men in Blue' will begin their quest to win the World Cup for the third time. Also Read: Major takeaways from Kohli's pre-match press conference ahead of South Africa encounter South Africa, on the other hand, have had a disappointing start in the World Cup, losing both matches they have played so far. They lost to hosts England by 104 runs, then slipped to a 21-run loss to Bangladesh on Sunday. It couldn't get worse for captain Faf du Plessis after star pacers Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi suffered injuries. Ngidi will back in the squad within the next 10 days but legendary fast bowler Steyn has been ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover from a shoulder injury. India, however, are fresh and are all geared up for their campaign opener. India will be starting their campaign late but skipper Virat Kohli termed it as team's "advantage" as the players are well aware of the conditions and pitch behaviour. Conditions: The forecast suggests that Southampton will be cloudy and there could be light showers but chances of a downpour are very less. However, it had rained here a day earlier, so the Indian cricket fans will be keeping their fingers crossed. Overall, the conditions suggest that it is going to be a batting-friendly match, similar to what we have seen in the last ODI contest at this venue between England and Pakistan in which 734 runs were scored in 100 overs. Head-to-head: India and South Africa's ODI rivalry has a long history considering the number of matches they have played together. Both the team have played a total of 83 ODI matches, India have won 34 and South Africa has emerged victorious in 46 games. Three matches have ended without any result. In World Cups, both the teams have met four times and South Africa have won thrice. But since 2012, India has defeated South Africa in all five ICC events (not bilateral series) they have played which includes the 2013 and 2017 Champions Trophy, in 2012 and 2014 World T20 and in the 2015 World Cup.

World Cup 2019: Virat Kohli's India begins campaign against 'stunned' South Africa

World Cup: Mohammed Shami, Rashid Khan, Imran Tahir among other players attend Eid prayers

English crowds are "stupid" to jeer David Warner at the Cricket World Cup as it will only fire him up, the Australian batsman's manager James Erskine has said.

Warner, who has returned to the side following a 12-month ban for ball-tampering, was booed by the crowd during Australia's opening match against Afghanistan in Bristol but struck an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-david-warner-stars-in-australias-rout-of-afghanistan-223509">unbeaten 89 and was named man-of-the-match</a>.

"I am English. Where the Poms are stupid is that it is actually going to encourage him. It will actually help him. The fact of the matter is, you concentrate, he won't want to fail, he got 89," Erskine said in comments published by Fairfax Media.

"They will learn very smartly that they are dealing with someone who has got the powers of concentration and his willpower, it's no different from a Steve Waugh or a Nick Faldo. That's exactly what will happen here," he added.

While former captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-coach-justin-langer-coach-requests-crowd-not-to-boo-steve-smith-david-warner-223096">Steve Smith</a> and test opener Cameron Bancroft -&nbsp;the other players punished for ball-tampering - have given media interviews about the Cape Town scandal, Warner has declined to comment publicly.

He has dodged media interviews at the World Cup, barring a mandatory comment on-field with the host broadcaster after claiming the man-of-the-match award.

Erskine defended Warner's silence.

"There is no point talking. What's he going to talk about? I think that policy will work ... if he (Warner) goes and gets a ton against England or somebody like that, people will want to a chat to him about his play,''&nbsp;Erskine said.

"As I have said before, these guys (Warner and Smith) have taken a hit for a lot of other people and they paid their fine. They now basically have got to go out and play well and it looks as if they are going to play well," he added.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50ceefec-3c9b-4fe0-99d7-1cfcc22e2c1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_19.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-4-afghanistan-vs-australia-223408">Australia</a> next face West Indies in Nottingham on Thursday.

English crowds are "stupid" to jeer David Warner at the Cricket World Cup as it will only fire him up, the Australian batsman's manager James Erskine has said. Warner, who has returned to the side following a 12-month ban for ball-tampering, was booed by the crowd during Australia's opening match against Afghanistan in Bristol but struck an unbeaten 89 and was named man-of-the-match.

English crowds are "stupid" to jeer David Warner at the Cricket World Cup as it will only fire him up, the Australian batsman's manager James Erskine has said. Warner, who has returned to the side following a 12-month ban for ball-tampering, was booed by the crowd during Australia's opening match against Afghanistan in Bristol but struck an unbeaten 89 and was named man-of-the-match. "I am English. Where the Poms are stupid is that it is actually going to encourage him. It will actually help him. The fact of the matter is, you concentrate, he won't want to fail, he got 89," Erskine said in comments published by Fairfax Media. "They will learn very smartly that they are dealing with someone who has got the powers of concentration and his willpower, it's no different from a Steve Waugh or a Nick Faldo. That's exactly what will happen here," he added. While former captain Steve Smith and test opener Cameron Bancroft - the other players punished for ball-tampering - have given media interviews about the Cape Town scandal, Warner has declined to comment publicly. He has dodged media interviews at the World Cup, barring a mandatory comment on-field with the host broadcaster after claiming the man-of-the-match award. Erskine defended Warner's silence. "There is no point talking. What's he going to talk about? I think that policy will work ... if he (Warner) goes and gets a ton against England or somebody like that, people will want to a chat to him about his play,'' Erskine said. "As I have said before, these guys (Warner and Smith) have taken a hit for a lot of other people and they paid their fine. They now basically have got to go out and play well and it looks as if they are going to play well," he added. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia next face West Indies in Nottingham on Thursday.

World Cup 2019: English crowds 'stupid' to boo David Warner, says manager

West Indies are the most watchable side in this year's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inept-to-inspiring-i-always-say-be-patient-with-us-says-captain-sarfaraz-after-beating-england-224025">Cricket World Cup</a> and every team will be wary of facing them, former Australia captain Steve Waugh has said.

The winners of the first two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-joe-root-scores-first-hundred-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-223998">World Cups</a> back in the 1970s, West Indies have not made the final since 1983 but the recent return of some top players following the resolution of a long-running pay dispute with their board has provided a big boost.

There was never any doubt about their batting firepower with crowd-pleasing opening batsman Chris Gayle and all-rounder Andre Russell in the side but they also showcased their bowling prowess in their opening match against Pakistan.

In a performance evoking memories of the team's heyday in the 1980s, their quicks led by Oshane Thomas harassed Pakistan with fiery bouncers in bowler-friendly conditions to dismiss them for their second-lowest World Cup total of 105.

Thomas finished with 4-27, while captain Jason Holder and Russell shared five wickets between them to send an early warning to their World Cup rivals with a seven-wicket win.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nathan-coulter-nile-warns-windies-says-be-ready-for-chin-music-223661">Champions Australia</a> will be up next on Thursday with Aaron Finch's team also picking up a comfortable seven-wicket victory in their opening match against Afghanistan.

"The West Indies ... possess a squad full of match winners that can dominate if they gain any sense of ascendancy in a match," Waugh said in a column for the governing body International Cricket Council.

"They are the most watchable team in the tournament with a batting line-up that can kidnap any bowling attack with brute force,'' he said.

"No ground is big enough when this behemoth of a batting order clicks into overdrive but they also have vulnerability against high-quality bowling as they tend to play one dimensional at times. For the first time in a long while they have fast-bowling depth vindicated by Friday's win against Pakistan without their finest in Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel," Waugh added.

Waugh, 54, said West Indies would still need to improve their fielding.

"Their Achilles heel, however, will be their lack of mobility in the field and this is where Australia can influence the outcome," said Waugh, who won the World Cup with Australia in 1987 before leading the side to their second title in 1999 when the tournament was last held in England.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="90f117a3-af27-4398-a73d-6a41e7a1499e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_17.jpg" />

"Every side in this tournament will be wary of playing the Windies and I wouldn't want to face them in a knock-out match. They are the sort of team that, if they get on a roll and build some momentum, then they could win it all like the ICC Men's World T20 back in 2016," Waugh said.

West Indies are the most watchable side in this year's Cricket World Cup and every team will be wary of facing them, former Australia captain Steve Waugh has said.

West Indies are the most watchable side in this year's Cricket World Cup and every team will be wary of facing them, former Australia captain Steve Waugh has said. The winners of the first two World Cups back in the 1970s, West Indies have not made the final since 1983 but the recent return of some top players following the resolution of a long-running pay dispute with their board has provided a big boost. There was never any doubt about their batting firepower with crowd-pleasing opening batsman Chris Gayle and all-rounder Andre Russell in the side but they also showcased their bowling prowess in their opening match against Pakistan. In a performance evoking memories of the team's heyday in the 1980s, their quicks led by Oshane Thomas harassed Pakistan with fiery bouncers in bowler-friendly conditions to dismiss them for their second-lowest World Cup total of 105. Thomas finished with 4-27, while captain Jason Holder and Russell shared five wickets between them to send an early warning to their World Cup rivals with a seven-wicket win. Champions Australia will be up next on Thursday with Aaron Finch's team also picking up a comfortable seven-wicket victory in their opening match against Afghanistan. "The West Indies ... possess a squad full of match winners that can dominate if they gain any sense of ascendancy in a match," Waugh said in a column for the governing body International Cricket Council. "They are the most watchable team in the tournament with a batting line-up that can kidnap any bowling attack with brute force,'' he said. "No ground is big enough when this behemoth of a batting order clicks into overdrive but they also have vulnerability against high-quality bowling as they tend to play one dimensional at times. For the first time in a long while they have fast-bowling depth vindicated by Friday's win against Pakistan without their finest in Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel," Waugh added. Waugh, 54, said West Indies would still need to improve their fielding. "Their Achilles heel, however, will be their lack of mobility in the field and this is where Australia can influence the outcome," said Waugh, who won the World Cup with Australia in 1987 before leading the side to their second title in 1999 when the tournament was last held in England. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "Every side in this tournament will be wary of playing the Windies and I wouldn't want to face them in a knock-out match. They are the sort of team that, if they get on a roll and build some momentum, then they could win it all like the ICC Men's World T20 back in 2016," Waugh said.

Steve Waugh ranks 'dangerous' Windies as World Cup's most watchable side

England captain Eoin Morgan said the side let themselves down with poor fielding in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-stun-england-by-14-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-224013">14-run loss to Pakistan in the World Cup</a> at Trent Bridge on Monday.

After beating South Africa at The Oval in London last Thursday to get their campaign off to a winning start, the hosts and pre-tournament favourites narrowly failed to reach the huge 349-run target set by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inept-to-inspiring-i-always-say-be-patient-with-us-says-captain-sarfaraz-after-beating-england-224025">Pakistan </a>in Nottingham.

Their fielding, in particular, was scrappy, with preventable boundaries and an important but relatively easy catch dropped by Jason Roy.

"We've gone from probably one of our best performances in the field at The Oval to not extremely bad, but it's cost us probably about 15 or 20 runs in the field, which is a lot in a one-day game," Morgan told reporters.

"Fielding is an attitude thing, so it's a matter of taking maybe our stand-off attitude today that we had in the field and getting it back to our positive attitude,&nbsp;going for everything, playing with that fearless nature, maybe taking a half chance instead of standing off a normal chance,'' Morgan said.

"You can play against a side that's better than you or just have an off day. Same with the ball. But when it comes down to the difference in the sides being in the field, it's even more frustrating," he added.

Nevertheless, Morgan felt the side had done a good job with their bowling and said the 130-run partnership between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-joe-root-scores-first-hundred-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-223998">Joe Root</a> and Jos Buttler had kept the game alive.

"They never really got away with us given that the wicket was good and the outfield was very fast. And when we recovered with the bat with that substantial partnership, we were never really out of the game probably until the early 40s over," Morgan&nbsp;said.

"There are some really good positives to take out of our batting and our bowling," added Morgan.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c1b3630-5f73-46c7-8828-58ccc952f269" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_18.jpg" />

England next face Bangladesh on Saturday in Cardiff.

England captain Eoin Morgan said the side let themselves down with poor fielding in their 14-run loss to Pakistan in the World Cup at Trent Bridge on Monday. After beating South Africa at The Oval in London last Thursday to get their campaign off to a winning start, the hosts and pre-tournament favourites narrowly failed to reach the huge 349-run target set by Pakistan in Nottingham.

England captain Eoin Morgan said the side let themselves down with poor fielding in their 14-run loss to Pakistan in the World Cup at Trent Bridge on Monday. After beating South Africa at The Oval in London last Thursday to get their campaign off to a winning start, the hosts and pre-tournament favourites narrowly failed to reach the huge 349-run target set by Pakistan in Nottingham. Their fielding, in particular, was scrappy, with preventable boundaries and an important but relatively easy catch dropped by Jason Roy. "We've gone from probably one of our best performances in the field at The Oval to not extremely bad, but it's cost us probably about 15 or 20 runs in the field, which is a lot in a one-day game," Morgan told reporters. "Fielding is an attitude thing, so it's a matter of taking maybe our stand-off attitude today that we had in the field and getting it back to our positive attitude, going for everything, playing with that fearless nature, maybe taking a half chance instead of standing off a normal chance,'' Morgan said. "You can play against a side that's better than you or just have an off day. Same with the ball. But when it comes down to the difference in the sides being in the field, it's even more frustrating," he added. Nevertheless, Morgan felt the side had done a good job with their bowling and said the 130-run partnership between Joe Root and Jos Buttler had kept the game alive. "They never really got away with us given that the wicket was good and the outfield was very fast. And when we recovered with the bat with that substantial partnership, we were never really out of the game probably until the early 40s over," Morgan said. "There are some really good positives to take out of our batting and our bowling," added Morgan. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: England next face Bangladesh on Saturday in Cardiff.

World Cup 2019: England skipper Eoin Morgan says fielding let team down in loss against Pakistan

Key players in India vs South Africa World Cup clash

List of challenges Team India faced ahead of World Cup campaign opener

Jason Roy and Jofra Archer have each been fined 15 per cent of their match fees for incidents during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-england-skipper-eoin-morgan-says-fielding-let-team-down-in-loss-against-pakistan-224075">England's World Cup defeat by Pakistan</a> at Trent Bridge.

The International Cricket Council found opener Roy had breached level one of its code of conduct, using an audible obscenity after a misfield during Pakistan's innings.

Fast bowler Archer was found guilty of dissent towards an umpire's decision following a wide delivery.

Both players have also had one demerit point added to their records.

Pakistan captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inept-to-inspiring-i-always-say-be-patient-with-us-says-captain-sarfaraz-after-beating-england-224025">Sarfaraz Ahmed</a> was fined 20 per cent of his fee, and his teammates 10 per cent, for a minor over-rate offence.

Pakistan won Monday's match by 14 runs after setting England a target of 349.

It was an occasionally fractious encounter, with the umpires warning England skipper Eoin Morgan about his side throwing the ball in on the bounce and later issuing the same reminder to Sarfaraz.

The tactic is often used to scuff up the ball and promote reverse swing.

Morgan said,&nbsp;"There were discussions throughout the whole of the two innings. The umpires came to me mid-innings and seemed to think that we were throwing the ball in on the bounce too much or it was being over-exaggerated.

England batsman Jos Buttler appeared to take a look at the ball on his walk back to the pavilion after his knock of 103 came to an end.

"They emphasised it would be the same for both. The conversations that were stopping the game were that Pakistan were&nbsp;doing the same thing,'' Morgan said.

"Jos was just intrigued to see the ball. When the ball is hit against the LED boards it does scuff it up quite a lot so he was just interested to see if the ball was more scuffed up," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-joe-root-scores-first-hundred-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-223998">England </a>captain added.

Jason Roy and Jofra Archer have each been fined 15 per cent of their match fees for incidents during England's World Cup defeat by Pakistan at Trent Bridge. The International Cricket Council found opener Roy had breached level one of its code of conduct, using an audible obscenity after a misfield during Pakistan's innings.

Jason Roy and Jofra Archer have each been fined 15 per cent of their match fees for incidents during England's World Cup defeat by Pakistan at Trent Bridge. The International Cricket Council found opener Roy had breached level one of its code of conduct, using an audible obscenity after a misfield during Pakistan's innings. Fast bowler Archer was found guilty of dissent towards an umpire's decision following a wide delivery. Both players have also had one demerit point added to their records. Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed was fined 20 per cent of his fee, and his teammates 10 per cent, for a minor over-rate offence. Pakistan won Monday's match by 14 runs after setting England a target of 349. It was an occasionally fractious encounter, with the umpires warning England skipper Eoin Morgan about his side throwing the ball in on the bounce and later issuing the same reminder to Sarfaraz. The tactic is often used to scuff up the ball and promote reverse swing. Morgan said, "There were discussions throughout the whole of the two innings. The umpires came to me mid-innings and seemed to think that we were throwing the ball in on the bounce too much or it was being over-exaggerated. England batsman Jos Buttler appeared to take a look at the ball on his walk back to the pavilion after his knock of 103 came to an end. "They emphasised it would be the same for both. The conversations that were stopping the game were that Pakistan were doing the same thing,'' Morgan said. "Jos was just intrigued to see the ball. When the ball is hit against the LED boards it does scuff it up quite a lot so he was just interested to see if the ball was more scuffed up," the England captain added.

England's Jofra Archer, Jason Roy fined for breaching ICC code in World Cup defeat against Pakistan

World Cup: South Africa aim to bounce back against injury-stricken Bangladesh

Bangladesh's injury woes continued with opener Tamim Iqbal suffering a wrist injury while batting in the nets ahead of their opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-a-fast-bowler-thunders-andre-russell-after-startling-pakistan-in-their-world-cup-opener-223332">World Cup</a> match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-were-better-than-us-in-all-facets-of-the-game-says-faf-du-plessis-after-defeat-in-world-cup-2019-opener-223068">South Africa</a> at The Oval here on Sunday.

The experienced left-handed batsman was immediately rushed to the dressing room along with physio Thian Chandramohan after being hit on his left wrist during the practice session.

He is expected to undergo a precautionary X-ray.

"It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available," selector Habibul Bashar said.&nbsp;

"But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game,"&nbsp;Bashar said.&nbsp;

Tamim is Bangladesh's batting mainstay, having played at the 2007 World Cup. He played an important role by blasting two fifties during their tri-series ODI win in Ireland earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">Bangladesh </a>is already sweating over the fitness of some of their key players such as Mohammad Saifuddin (recovering from a back problem), Mashrafe Mortaza (hamstring), Mustafizur Rahman (calf) and Mahmudullah (shoulder).&nbsp;

Spin-allrounder Shakib Al Hasan had also suffered a back spasm recently but is likely to be fit for the opening match.

Bangladesh's injury woes continued with opener Tamim Iqbal suffering a wrist injury while batting in the nets ahead of their opening World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval here on Sunday.

Bangladesh's injury woes continued with opener Tamim Iqbal suffering a wrist injury while batting in the nets ahead of their opening World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval here on Sunday. The experienced left-handed batsman was immediately rushed to the dressing room along with physio Thian Chandramohan after being hit on his left wrist during the practice session. He is expected to undergo a precautionary X-ray. "It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available," selector Habibul Bashar said. "But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game," Bashar said. Tamim is Bangladesh's batting mainstay, having played at the 2007 World Cup. He played an important role by blasting two fifties during their tri-series ODI win in Ireland earlier this month. Bangladesh is already sweating over the fitness of some of their key players such as Mohammad Saifuddin (recovering from a back problem), Mashrafe Mortaza (hamstring), Mustafizur Rahman (calf) and Mahmudullah (shoulder). Spin-allrounder Shakib Al Hasan had also suffered a back spasm recently but is likely to be fit for the opening match.

World Cup 2019: Bangladesh's Tamim Iqbal faces injury scare ahead of campaign opener against South Africa

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell reminded that he is a fast bowler to all who are only in awe of his incredible power-hitting.&nbsp;

"A lot of people have been saying I'm in the team as a big-hitting batter but they don't remember I'm a fast bowler," said Russell after the World Cup match against Pakistan.

Russell returned with figures of 2/4 in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-beat-pakistan-by-seven-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-223250">West Indies' seven-wicket thrashing of Pakistan</a> at the Trent Bridge, starting their campaign in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2015-firmly-behind-kane-williamsons-new-zealand-as-they-reunite-with-sri-lanka-223318">World Cup</a> on a high note.

"I think they underestimate me. I've been jealous in the past couple of years because people have me down as a medium-pacer. When I see 'Andre Russell' come up on the big screen and I see 'medium-pacer', I'm like, who are they talking to?" said&nbsp;Russell.&nbsp;

"Actually, I'm annoyed. Who's responsible for that stuff should change medium-pacer to fast."

Russell lit up the Indian Premier League with a flurry of fours and sixes, the incredible hitting drowning the fact that he can also bowl fast.

"At the end of the day I've shown them I can bowl 90mph. I think they should put some respect by my name. Today, when you turn up and see a (bouncy) pitch like that, it gives you a vibe to bowl fast, an energy to bowl fast," he added.&nbsp;

Russell is confident he will be fit for the side's second match against Australia on June 6, despite limping heavily after his match-turning spell in the thumping win.&nbsp;

"I've been playing for years with these knee injuries," Russell said after the match.

"And sometimes it feels worse than some days but, at the end of the day, I'm a professional. I know what to do to get back. I think I have five days before the next game so that is more than enough time to get my knee back to normal and get it settled,'' he said.

"Let's just see what happens. I have a good physio team, massage team, here so they're going to be working with me closely for the next couple of days," Russell said.&nbsp;

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell reminded that he is a fast bowler to all who are only in awe of his incredible power-hitting. "A lot of people have been saying I'm in the team as a big-hitting batter but they don't remember I'm a fast bowler," said Russell after the World Cup match against Pakistan.

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell reminded that he is a fast bowler to all who are only in awe of his incredible power-hitting. "A lot of people have been saying I'm in the team as a big-hitting batter but they don't remember I'm a fast bowler," said Russell after the World Cup match against Pakistan. Russell returned with figures of 2/4 in West Indies' seven-wicket thrashing of Pakistan at the Trent Bridge, starting their campaign in the World Cup on a high note. "I think they underestimate me. I've been jealous in the past couple of years because people have me down as a medium-pacer. When I see 'Andre Russell' come up on the big screen and I see 'medium-pacer', I'm like, who are they talking to?" said Russell. "Actually, I'm annoyed. Who's responsible for that stuff should change medium-pacer to fast." Russell lit up the Indian Premier League with a flurry of fours and sixes, the incredible hitting drowning the fact that he can also bowl fast. "At the end of the day I've shown them I can bowl 90mph. I think they should put some respect by my name. Today, when you turn up and see a (bouncy) pitch like that, it gives you a vibe to bowl fast, an energy to bowl fast," he added. Russell is confident he will be fit for the side's second match against Australia on June 6, despite limping heavily after his match-turning spell in the thumping win. "I've been playing for years with these knee injuries," Russell said after the match. "And sometimes it feels worse than some days but, at the end of the day, I'm a professional. I know what to do to get back. I think I have five days before the next game so that is more than enough time to get my knee back to normal and get it settled,'' he said. "Let's just see what happens. I have a good physio team, massage team, here so they're going to be working with me closely for the next couple of days," Russell said.

'I am a fast bowler,' thunders Andre Russell after startling Pakistan in their World Cup opener

New Zealand are confident wicket-keeper Tom Latham will be fit for their opening game of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-jofra-archers-impact-makes-england-an-even-tougher-force-223067">2019 ICC Cricket World Cup</a> against Sri Lanka on June 1.

The wicket-keeper's fitness had been a doubt after he broke his finger during a warm-up game in Australia earlier this month.

Latham trained fully for the first time on May 30 and said he felt no pain or discomfort as he batted in the nets and caught balls at full pace.

He remains on track to be available for selection for their first game.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed that signs were positive for Latham, but said they still need to monitor him in the coming days.

"He's probably slightly ahead of time. So far Tom's reached all the milestones that we've wanted him to, and today was another step, taking balls with more heat on them and making him dive and jump around a wee bit more. It's a bit bent from what happened, but he's had no pain so far, which means the bone has knitted back well," Stead said in a press conference.

Explaining the condition of his finger, Latham said, "It's nice to get through training but we'll still wait and see how it pulls up tonight and tomorrow.

"If Latham needs more time to nurse his injury, the Kiwi side will call up their back-up keeper Tom Blundell, who is yet to make his ODI debut.

Blundell scored a century in New Zealand's second warm-up match against the West Indies.

"He played a fantastic inning. Even the way he went in Australia before we came over here, he's certainly hitting the ball really well and the ball looks like it's going into the gloves nicely. It's a nice confidence boost for him to get some runs against a good West Indies attack and Australia as well," said Latham.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="387800e3-06ae-45c2-a65b-2e5b7a13a7a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_14.jpg" />

New Zealand play their opening game of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-outplayed-but-not-downbeat-says-faf-du-plessis-222986">2019 ICC Cricket World Cup</a> against Sri Lanka on June 1.

New Zealand are confident wicket-keeper Tom Latham will be fit for their opening game of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka on June 1. The wicket-keeper's fitness had been a doubt after he broke his finger during a warm-up game in Australia earlier this month.

New Zealand are confident wicket-keeper Tom Latham will be fit for their opening game of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka on June 1. The wicket-keeper's fitness had been a doubt after he broke his finger during a warm-up game in Australia earlier this month. Latham trained fully for the first time on May 30 and said he felt no pain or discomfort as he batted in the nets and caught balls at full pace. He remains on track to be available for selection for their first game. New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed that signs were positive for Latham, but said they still need to monitor him in the coming days. "He's probably slightly ahead of time. So far Tom's reached all the milestones that we've wanted him to, and today was another step, taking balls with more heat on them and making him dive and jump around a wee bit more. It's a bit bent from what happened, but he's had no pain so far, which means the bone has knitted back well," Stead said in a press conference. Explaining the condition of his finger, Latham said, "It's nice to get through training but we'll still wait and see how it pulls up tonight and tomorrow. "If Latham needs more time to nurse his injury, the Kiwi side will call up their back-up keeper Tom Blundell, who is yet to make his ODI debut. Blundell scored a century in New Zealand's second warm-up match against the West Indies. "He played a fantastic inning. Even the way he went in Australia before we came over here, he's certainly hitting the ball really well and the ball looks like it's going into the gloves nicely. It's a nice confidence boost for him to get some runs against a good West Indies attack and Australia as well," said Latham. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: New Zealand play their opening game of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka on June 1.

New Zealand confident of Tom Latham's fitness ahead of their World Cup opener against Sri Lanka

South Africa captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-outplayed-but-not-downbeat-says-faf-du-plessis-222986">Faf du Plessis</a> lauded England saying the host were better than them in all three facets of the game.

However, he stressed to put the first loss behind and focus on Proteas'&nbsp;next ICC Cricket World Cup game.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-south-africa-by-104-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-opener-222946">South Africa were handed a 104-run defeat</a> at the hands of Eoin Morgan-led England in the curtain raiser of the 50-over tournament at the Oval.

Chasing a challenging total of 312, the Proteas were bundled out on 207 inside 40 overs.

"This is where it's important for us to make sure that you look at the World Cup for what it is. You know, you`re going to play games. You're going to come up against quality opposition. England was better than us in all three facets of the game. They show why they are such a good cricket team, and now we have to look at the league. It's a league competition," ESPNcricinfo quoted du Plessis as saying.

"As disappointed as we are with our performances today, you have to make sure you learn from it quickly and put every single dart to bed because there is the next game and you have to make sure you play good cricket again," he added.

Having known that England have a long batting line-up, South Africa restricted the host for 311/8.

The Proteas conceded just 76 runs in the last 10 overs, which made it seem the du Plessis-led side had won half battle.

One of their go-to bowlers, Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets, including ending the innings of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ben-stokes-takes-mind-boggling-catch-to-dismiss-andile-phehlukwayo-222966">Ben Stokes</a> for 89.

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir and Kagiso Rabada returned with two wickets each.

"Yeah, I thought after the first half, that we did a good job with the ball. You know, as I said before this game, England more so than any other team in this World Cup, bat longer than anyone else. So if you can stop them with the long batting line-up you have, then you`re doing a great job with the ball," the South Africa captain said.

"For them to score as little runs as they did the last 15 overs and us picking up as many wickets as we did, was a great achievement by our bowling units. But yeah, as I said, 310 is still a big score, so what you need to do is you need to start well, and we didn`t have that luxury," he noted.

The chase looked achievable until Hashim Amla retired hurt after getting hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer.

The setback disrupted the South Africa batting and a wobble took place too before Quinton de Kock held his nerves to rebuild the side.

In the 23rd over, Liam Plunkett dismissed de Kock which broke the backbone of South Africa.

Amla returned to bat but it was too late as his side was at 180/7 and eventually South Africa folded.

"When you are chasing a big score like 310 what you need is a good start. You need to make sure that you settle the bats in the dressing room with a good partnership, whether it's zero down or one down, but a good start is really important and obviously with him (Amla) coming off, and then a few overs later, Aiden (Markram) got out and then one or two overs later, I got out. When you go three-down on a big score like that, you're making it really tough for our batting unit to perform. And then the score just looks big. It looks too far," du Plessis said.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fe0acf3-f1dc-43de-b0de-8f13de51390b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_12.jpg" />

South Africa will take on Bangladesh in their second match on June 2 at the Oval.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis lauded England saying the host were better than them in all three facets of the game. However, he stressed to put the first loss behind and focus on Proteas' next ICC Cricket World Cup game.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis lauded England saying the host were better than them in all three facets of the game. However, he stressed to put the first loss behind and focus on Proteas' next ICC Cricket World Cup game. South Africa were handed a 104-run defeat at the hands of Eoin Morgan-led England in the curtain raiser of the 50-over tournament at the Oval. Chasing a challenging total of 312, the Proteas were bundled out on 207 inside 40 overs. "This is where it's important for us to make sure that you look at the World Cup for what it is. You know, you`re going to play games. You're going to come up against quality opposition. England was better than us in all three facets of the game. They show why they are such a good cricket team, and now we have to look at the league. It's a league competition," ESPNcricinfo quoted du Plessis as saying. "As disappointed as we are with our performances today, you have to make sure you learn from it quickly and put every single dart to bed because there is the next game and you have to make sure you play good cricket again," he added. Having known that England have a long batting line-up, South Africa restricted the host for 311/8. The Proteas conceded just 76 runs in the last 10 overs, which made it seem the du Plessis-led side had won half battle. One of their go-to bowlers, Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets, including ending the innings of Ben Stokes for 89. Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir and Kagiso Rabada returned with two wickets each. "Yeah, I thought after the first half, that we did a good job with the ball. You know, as I said before this game, England more so than any other team in this World Cup, bat longer than anyone else. So if you can stop them with the long batting line-up you have, then you`re doing a great job with the ball," the South Africa captain said. "For them to score as little runs as they did the last 15 overs and us picking up as many wickets as we did, was a great achievement by our bowling units. But yeah, as I said, 310 is still a big score, so what you need to do is you need to start well, and we didn`t have that luxury," he noted. The chase looked achievable until Hashim Amla retired hurt after getting hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer. The setback disrupted the South Africa batting and a wobble took place too before Quinton de Kock held his nerves to rebuild the side. In the 23rd over, Liam Plunkett dismissed de Kock which broke the backbone of South Africa. Amla returned to bat but it was too late as his side was at 180/7 and eventually South Africa folded. "When you are chasing a big score like 310 what you need is a good start. You need to make sure that you settle the bats in the dressing room with a good partnership, whether it's zero down or one down, but a good start is really important and obviously with him (Amla) coming off, and then a few overs later, Aiden (Markram) got out and then one or two overs later, I got out. When you go three-down on a big score like that, you're making it really tough for our batting unit to perform. And then the score just looks big. It looks too far," du Plessis said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: South Africa will take on Bangladesh in their second match on June 2 at the Oval.

England were better than us in all facets of the game, says Faf du Plessis after defeat in World Cup 2019 opener

Australian opening batsman David Warner's participation in the team's opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-outplayed-but-not-downbeat-says-faf-du-plessis-222986">World Cup</a> match hangs in the balance as the player suffered from a sore glute in Australia's warm-up match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-jofra-archers-impact-makes-england-an-even-tougher-force-223067">England</a> on May 25.

The left-handed batsman needs to be cleared by the medical staff to take part in the team's opening match against Afghanistan on Saturday.

Australs head coach Justin Langer said that the fitness test of Warner would be conducted on Friday as they don't want to make a decision on the match day.

"We'll have a pretty good idea today. But what I have expressed to him is it's really important to be fair to the other players, we don't want to be getting to Saturday morning and making a call, when a couple of other guys are wondering if they are going to play or not going to play," cricket.com.au quoted Langer as saying on Friday.

"The earlier we can make the decision, the better. Hopefully, we can make it tonight where he says 'yep, I'm ready to go', or 'I'm not sure'&nbsp;if he pulls up sore in the morning," he added.

Warner would come out to bat as an opener if he is able to prove his fitness.

If he is not fit enough to take part in the match, one of Usman Khawaja or Shaun Marsh will open the batting alongside skipper Aaron Finch.

Langer said that Warner is, however, 'desperate to play'&nbsp;in the match, but the team does not want to rush him.

"He's obviously desperate to play. Like all 15 players would, he is jumping out of his skin, his energy is up and he's laughing a lot, which is a really good sign," Langer said.

"But we've just got to make sure he can move, particularly in the field.

Batting seems okay, running in a straight line seems okay, but going side to side - we've just got to make sure we don't aggravate it," he added.

Australia won both their warm-up matches against England and Sri Lanka ahead of the World Cup.

Australia's squad:

Aaron Finch (c), Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-david-warner-need-to-have-thick-skin-to-shine-at-world-cup-says-brett-lee-222826">David Warner</a>, Adam Zampa.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="Cricket World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80bb67f7-133a-43c5-866e-bbc5d1d0bd5f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_13.jpg" />

Australia takes on Afghanistan in their opening World Cup match on June 1.

Australian opening batsman David Warner's participation in the team's opening World Cup match hangs in the balance as the player suffered from a sore glute in Australia's warm-up match against England on May 25.

Australian opening batsman David Warner's participation in the team's opening World Cup match hangs in the balance as the player suffered from a sore glute in Australia's warm-up match against England on May 25. The left-handed batsman needs to be cleared by the medical staff to take part in the team's opening match against Afghanistan on Saturday. Australs head coach Justin Langer said that the fitness test of Warner would be conducted on Friday as they don't want to make a decision on the match day. "We'll have a pretty good idea today. But what I have expressed to him is it's really important to be fair to the other players, we don't want to be getting to Saturday morning and making a call, when a couple of other guys are wondering if they are going to play or not going to play," cricket.com.au quoted Langer as saying on Friday. "The earlier we can make the decision, the better. Hopefully, we can make it tonight where he says 'yep, I'm ready to go', or 'I'm not sure' if he pulls up sore in the morning," he added. Warner would come out to bat as an opener if he is able to prove his fitness. If he is not fit enough to take part in the match, one of Usman Khawaja or Shaun Marsh will open the batting alongside skipper Aaron Finch. Langer said that Warner is, however, 'desperate to play' in the match, but the team does not want to rush him. "He's obviously desperate to play. Like all 15 players would, he is jumping out of his skin, his energy is up and he's laughing a lot, which is a really good sign," Langer said. "But we've just got to make sure he can move, particularly in the field. Batting seems okay, running in a straight line seems okay, but going side to side - we've just got to make sure we don't aggravate it," he added. Australia won both their warm-up matches against England and Sri Lanka ahead of the World Cup. Australia's squad: Aaron Finch (c), Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia takes on Afghanistan in their opening World Cup match on June 1.

David Warner's fitness a concern ahead of Australia's opening World Cup 2019 match

Biggest cricketing tournament, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-jofra-archers-impact-makes-england-an-even-tougher-force-223067">ICC Men's Cricket World Cup</a>, kicked off on May 30 and former cricketer and Committee of Administrators (COA) member Diana Edulji feels that India should focus on one game at a time in the premier tournament.

"The team should concentrate on one game at a time and should not think about the semi-finals and finals. This team has the capability. I am sure they will do it. It's a big tournament and a long tournament, you will have to play in every country. So, let`s hope for the best and good luck to the team India," Edulji told ANI.

Edulji feels that no team should be taken lightly in the tournament because a team can be favourite on paper but it all depends on how they perform on that given day.

"Every team is good. You cannot take any team lightly in this format. I think it is an open tournament. You may be favorite on paper but it's an open tournament. It also depends on how you play on that day. So I will not predict who is going to win or favorite," she said.

Edulji also expressed her thoughts on 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni and wished him all the best.

"I don`t wish it will be the last world cup for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ms-dhoni-sets-field-for-bangladesh-while-batting-in-world-cup-warm-up-match-222476">MS (Dhoni)</a>, looking at his form, he will be 37. So why are we cutting, I played till the age of 40. I still feel if the team can deserve him nothing like that. I wish him all the very best and may he have the successful world cup," she said.

The 63-year old also opined over the highly-anticipated India-Pakistan clash but did not pick a side and said 'may the best team win.'

"I know India-Pakistan match generates a lot more interest and excitement but may the best team win and whoever will play good cricket on that day and sustain the pressure will come up," she said.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8082de2e-2d5d-485f-a512-a8321f1062ee" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_16.jpg" />

India will compete with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-were-better-than-us-in-all-facets-of-the-game-says-faf-du-plessis-after-defeat-in-world-cup-2019-opener-223068">South Africa</a> for their first World Cup 2019 clash on June 5.

Biggest cricketing tournament, the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, kicked off on May 30 and former cricketer and Committee of Administrators (COA) member Diana Edulji feels that India should focus on one game at a time in the premier tournament.

Biggest cricketing tournament, the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, kicked off on May 30 and former cricketer and Committee of Administrators (COA) member Diana Edulji feels that India should focus on one game at a time in the premier tournament. "The team should concentrate on one game at a time and should not think about the semi-finals and finals. This team has the capability. I am sure they will do it. It's a big tournament and a long tournament, you will have to play in every country. So, let`s hope for the best and good luck to the team India," Edulji told ANI. Edulji feels that no team should be taken lightly in the tournament because a team can be favourite on paper but it all depends on how they perform on that given day. "Every team is good. You cannot take any team lightly in this format. I think it is an open tournament. You may be favorite on paper but it's an open tournament. It also depends on how you play on that day. So I will not predict who is going to win or favorite," she said. Edulji also expressed her thoughts on 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni and wished him all the best. "I don`t wish it will be the last world cup for MS (Dhoni), looking at his form, he will be 37. So why are we cutting, I played till the age of 40. I still feel if the team can deserve him nothing like that. I wish him all the very best and may he have the successful world cup," she said. The 63-year old also opined over the highly-anticipated India-Pakistan clash but did not pick a side and said 'may the best team win.' "I know India-Pakistan match generates a lot more interest and excitement but may the best team win and whoever will play good cricket on that day and sustain the pressure will come up," she said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India will compete with South Africa for their first World Cup 2019 clash on June 5.

India should concentrate on one game at a time at World Cup: CoA member Diana Edulji

From refugee to Afghan World Cup star, a talismanic tale of Rashid Khan

World Cup 2019: Key players to watch out for in Australia vs Afghanistan clash

In the opening match of the World Cup today, South African opener <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africas-hashim-amla-is-hungrier-than-ever-before-ahead-of-world-cup-2019-220954&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQr_P718LiAhXo_XMBHQ7iDngQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0moMfXMOJ0TJycudxG3Buu">Hashim Amla</a> will aim to break Indian skipper Virat Kohli's long-standing ODI record of fastest 8,000 runs.

Amla is just 90 runs away from the mark and if he is able to achieve this feat against hosts England in the World Cup opener, he will replace Kohli at the top spot in the list of fastest batsmen to score 8000 runs in ODI format.

Kohli earned the accolade in 175 innings while Amla has played 171 innings in his ODI career, so far.

If Amla clocks the mammoth score, he will also better Kohli's record by three innings.

Amla currently holds the record for being the fastest batsman to go past 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 and 7000 ODI runs.

Whenever he goes past the 8000 ODI runs mark, he will become the fourth Proteas batsmen to do so.

Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, and Herschelle Gibbs are the other <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-theres-a-lot-more-bigger-things-than-winning-and-losing-cricket-games-says-faf-du-plessis-222584">South African</a> batsmen to have cruised past the benchmark.

Kallis scored 11,550 runs in the ODI format whereas de Villiers and Gibbs scored 9427 and 8094 runs respectively in the ODI format.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/off-form-hashim-amla-makes-south-africa-world-cup-squad-211566&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQr_P718LiAhXo_XMBHQ7iDngQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1MbM2TC2z6o3xR8aKENITj">Amla</a> is also on the verge of achieving another feat as he is 37 runs away from becoming the second South African batsman to score 1000 ODI runs against England.

Kallis is the only other Proteas player who has managed the score against England.

Watch:&nbsp;Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v96GBJpbjtY" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-opening-clash-between-england-vs-south-africa-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-222213">South Africa takes on the hosts England</a> in the opening match of the World Cup today at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

In the opening match of the World Cup today, South African opener Hashim Amla will aim to break Indian skipper Virat Kohli's long-standing ODI record of fastest 8,000 runs.

In the opening match of the World Cup today, South African opener Hashim Amla will aim to break Indian skipper Virat Kohli's long-standing ODI record of fastest 8,000 runs. Amla is just 90 runs away from the mark and if he is able to achieve this feat against hosts England in the World Cup opener, he will replace Kohli at the top spot in the list of fastest batsmen to score 8000 runs in ODI format. Kohli earned the accolade in 175 innings while Amla has played 171 innings in his ODI career, so far. If Amla clocks the mammoth score, he will also better Kohli's record by three innings. Amla currently holds the record for being the fastest batsman to go past 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 and 7000 ODI runs. Whenever he goes past the 8000 ODI runs mark, he will become the fourth Proteas batsmen to do so. Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, and Herschelle Gibbs are the other South African batsmen to have cruised past the benchmark. Kallis scored 11,550 runs in the ODI format whereas de Villiers and Gibbs scored 9427 and 8094 runs respectively in the ODI format. Amla is also on the verge of achieving another feat as he is 37 runs away from becoming the second South African batsman to score 1000 ODI runs against England. Kallis is the only other Proteas player who has managed the score against England. Watch: Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa × South Africa takes on the hosts England in the opening match of the World Cup today at the Oval in London.

Hashim Amla just 90 runs away from breaking Virat Kohli's ODI record

Cricket legend <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-ethics-officer-dismisses-conflict-of-interest-charge-against-sachin-tendulkar-222194&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip-IPe1MLiAhUSfSsKHdG9B60QFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vhevCGHXTyPprW2BV34tb">Sachin Tendulkar</a> will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom.

The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa.

Tendulkar joins an illustrious panel of experts in the pre-show on Star Sports.

He will have his own segment 'Sachin Opens Again'.

Tendulkar has scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup that he has appeared in.&nbsp;

The 46-year-old, who has represented India in six World Cups, holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in a single edition of the World Cup, scoring 673 in 2003.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip-IPe1MLiAhUSfSsKHdG9B60QFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Ip3bPE-mYlXaNowbhJCwR">Tendulkar </a>scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup he played.&nbsp;

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f1057d2-a373-4e54-9713-00b99df3a6c7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_8.jpg" />
India opens its campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom. The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom. The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa. Tendulkar joins an illustrious panel of experts in the pre-show on Star Sports. He will have his own segment 'Sachin Opens Again'. Tendulkar has scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup that he has appeared in. The 46-year-old, who has represented India in six World Cups, holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in a single edition of the World Cup, scoring 673 in 2003. Tendulkar scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup he played. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India opens its campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

'Sachin Opens Again' at the World Cup, this time as a commentator

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-steve-smith-booed-by-crowd-in-warm-up-match-against-england-221615&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmwZTQpsPiAhXc63MBHQgMBe0QFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QUecJRlPNNeZdxc_e0-H1">Steve Smith and David Warner</a> have nothing to prove but the duo will need to have "thick skin" to counter sledging and hostile crowd in the World Cup, said former Australia pacer Brett Lee.

Smith and Warner, who are returning after serving suspensions for their involvement in the infamous ball-tampering episode in South Africa in 2018, have already witnessed hostile crowd during Australia's two World Cup warm-up games.&nbsp;

"I don't think they have got a point to prove, they will just be happy to be back playing for Australia," Lee said.

"We saw what happened with David Warner during the IPL, the leading run scorer and the Orange Cap holder, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-shines-as-australia-edge-out-england-in-world-cup-warm-up-221710&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmwZTQpsPiAhXc63MBHQgMBe0QFjAFegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vy2unf2iEwkNjtbLpcI-u">Steven Smith</a> got a big hundred in his first game,'' Lee added.&nbsp;

They have been welcomed back to the Australian cricket team with open arms and I reckon they have a shot at winning.

"(But) you have got the Barmy Army, you have got guys like Kevin Pietersen chirping at me already. They are going to cop some sledging but you need thick skin," he added.

Lee said Australia are peaking just at the right time and Aaron Finch's men have it in them to win the title for the sixth time.

"We need a couple of good games back-to-back, it will be phenomenal if Australia can win a sixth title, I know what it means to win a World Cup and it is the best feeling in the world," Lee said at the official tournament opening ceremony here on Wednesday.

"I think they can (win it), I am quietly confident with the Aussies, they have got a great team, a great squad, they tick every box, they bowl pretty well at the death and they field pretty well. I would never back against the Aussies, put it that way.

"It's also about peaking at the right time when you go into a World Cup. I think Australia are doing that, although we haven't played a lot of great cricket back-to-back in the last 12 months," Lee added.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81149667-362b-4660-be80-bc2b68ab8045" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_11.jpg" />

Australia will open their campaign against Afghanistan at Bristol on June 1.

Steve Smith and David Warner have nothing to prove but the duo will need to have "thick skin" to counter sledging and hostile crowd in the World Cup, said former Australia pacer Brett Lee.

Steve Smith and David Warner have nothing to prove but the duo will need to have "thick skin" to counter sledging and hostile crowd in the World Cup, said former Australia pacer Brett Lee. Smith and Warner, who are returning after serving suspensions for their involvement in the infamous ball-tampering episode in South Africa in 2018, have already witnessed hostile crowd during Australia's two World Cup warm-up games. "I don't think they have got a point to prove, they will just be happy to be back playing for Australia," Lee said. "We saw what happened with David Warner during the IPL, the leading run scorer and the Orange Cap holder, Steven Smith got a big hundred in his first game,'' Lee added. They have been welcomed back to the Australian cricket team with open arms and I reckon they have a shot at winning. "(But) you have got the Barmy Army, you have got guys like Kevin Pietersen chirping at me already. They are going to cop some sledging but you need thick skin," he added. Lee said Australia are peaking just at the right time and Aaron Finch's men have it in them to win the title for the sixth time. "We need a couple of good games back-to-back, it will be phenomenal if Australia can win a sixth title, I know what it means to win a World Cup and it is the best feeling in the world," Lee said at the official tournament opening ceremony here on Wednesday. "I think they can (win it), I am quietly confident with the Aussies, they have got a great team, a great squad, they tick every box, they bowl pretty well at the death and they field pretty well. I would never back against the Aussies, put it that way. "It's also about peaking at the right time when you go into a World Cup. I think Australia are doing that, although we haven't played a lot of great cricket back-to-back in the last 12 months," Lee added. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia will open their campaign against Afghanistan at Bristol on June 1.

Steve Smith, David Warner need to have thick skin to shine at World Cup, says Brett Lee

Former <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-shines-as-australia-edge-out-england-in-world-cup-warm-up-221710&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj635XomsPiAhXJPI8KHbkJApcQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2FHljWJX1Utnj0safbfpWZ">Australian </a>batsman Mike Hussey is not at all stressed about the current form of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis ahead of the World Cup.

"I'm not stressed about his form or his position in the team at all," cricket.com.au quoted Hussey as saying.

Stoinis has been a regular member of the one-day international (ODI) squad for the past two years.

Hussey backed the form of Stoinis and hopes that he will return to form in the World Cup.

On the current form of Stoinis, Hussey said every player has had a time when they struggled with their form and returned to form real quick.

"Every player goes through a period where he battles a bit for form, but it can turn around really quickly," he added.

Hussey stated that Stoinis is a vital player, provides balance to the squad and fills the slot of the fifth bowler for the skipper Aaron Finch.

"Stoinis is crucial to the balance of Australia's side, but added the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith should not be forgotten by skipper Aaron Finch to support Stoinis as his fifth bowler," Hussey said.

Stoinis is a player who possesses bowling abilities as well as big hitting capabilities.

According to Hussey, if he comes in to bat with ten overs left, he can bring a huge impact on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-play-on-our-strengths-in-world-cup-says-australias-wicket-keeper-alex-carey-219622&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj635XomsPiAhXJPI8KHbkJApcQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3QKRn-pfl82Obh2L_QEC4j">Australia's </a>score.

"He's a crucial member of the team from the bowling side of things, but also his power hitting at the end of an innings can be really important.

If he can come in with 10 overs to go, I think he can make a big impact and propel Australia towards a big score," added Hussey.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77bd4eb8-d239-413e-92ab-bdfed2ad79e6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_10.jpg" />

Australia's squad: 

Aaron Finch (c), Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.The team will play on June 1 against Afghanistan in their first match of the World Cup at Bristol.

Former Australian batsman Mike Hussey is not at all stressed about the current form of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis ahead of the World Cup. "I'm not stressed about his form or his position in the team at all," cricket.

Former Australian batsman Mike Hussey is not at all stressed about the current form of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis ahead of the World Cup. "I'm not stressed about his form or his position in the team at all," cricket.com.au quoted Hussey as saying. Stoinis has been a regular member of the one-day international (ODI) squad for the past two years. Hussey backed the form of Stoinis and hopes that he will return to form in the World Cup. On the current form of Stoinis, Hussey said every player has had a time when they struggled with their form and returned to form real quick. "Every player goes through a period where he battles a bit for form, but it can turn around really quickly," he added. Hussey stated that Stoinis is a vital player, provides balance to the squad and fills the slot of the fifth bowler for the skipper Aaron Finch. "Stoinis is crucial to the balance of Australia's side, but added the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith should not be forgotten by skipper Aaron Finch to support Stoinis as his fifth bowler," Hussey said. Stoinis is a player who possesses bowling abilities as well as big hitting capabilities. According to Hussey, if he comes in to bat with ten overs left, he can bring a huge impact on Australia's score. "He's a crucial member of the team from the bowling side of things, but also his power hitting at the end of an innings can be really important. If he can come in with 10 overs to go, I think he can make a big impact and propel Australia towards a big score," added Hussey. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia's squad: Aaron Finch (c), Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.The team will play on June 1 against Afghanistan in their first match of the World Cup at Bristol.

Former Australia batsman Mike Hussey is not stressed about Marcus Stoinis' form ahead of the World Cup