World Cup: Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match

Renowned wax museum Madame Tussauds on Wednesday unveiled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahuls-batting-at-no-4-is-big-positive-not-worried-about-dhawan-rohits-form-says-virat-kohli-222438">India captain Virat Kohli's</a> statue at Lord's Cricket Ground here to mark the launch of the ICC World Cup.

The wax statue of one of the world's leading batsmen will be on display at Madame Tussauds from Thursday until July 15,&nbsp;remaining at the museum for the duration of the World Cup.

Steve Davies, General Manager at Madame Tussauds London, said,&nbsp;"Cricket fever is set to sweep the nation in the coming weeks so what better way to unveil our new figure of Virat Kohli than with the help of our neighbours at Lord's.''

"We hope that cricket fans will enjoy not only watching their hero on the pitch but taking to the crease with him here at Madame Tussauds London," Davies added.

Pictured for the first time at the iconic Lord's, the statue is dressed in the official Indian kit as well as shoes and gloves donated by the sportsman himself.

From Thursday onwards, Kohli will sit alongside legends such as Usain Bolt, Sir Mo Farah and fellow Indian cricket star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-opens-again-at-the-world-cup-this-time-as-a-commentator-222677">Sachin Tendulkar</a>.

Tarah Cunynghame, Head of Retail &amp; Tours at Lord's Cricket Ground, said,&nbsp;"Lord's is the perfect backdrop to reveal this fantastic figure of Virat Kohli on the eve of the Cricket World Cup.

The anticipation of the exciting summer of cricket has already started, with thousands of visitors coming to the Ground and enjoying a tour of Lord's and around the MCC Museum.

"The figure of the famous batsman will delight any cricket fans visiting Madame Tussauds London," Davies said.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52b03f5f-145d-4fd4-8f78-c76e330a1214" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_9.jpg" />

India opens their&nbsp;campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Renowned wax museum Madame Tussauds on Wednesday unveiled India captain Virat Kohli's statue at Lord's Cricket Ground here to mark the launch of the ICC World Cup.

Renowned wax museum Madame Tussauds on Wednesday unveiled India captain Virat Kohli's statue at Lord's Cricket Ground here to mark the launch of the ICC World Cup. The wax statue of one of the world's leading batsmen will be on display at Madame Tussauds from Thursday until July 15, remaining at the museum for the duration of the World Cup. Steve Davies, General Manager at Madame Tussauds London, said, "Cricket fever is set to sweep the nation in the coming weeks so what better way to unveil our new figure of Virat Kohli than with the help of our neighbours at Lord's.'' "We hope that cricket fans will enjoy not only watching their hero on the pitch but taking to the crease with him here at Madame Tussauds London," Davies added. Pictured for the first time at the iconic Lord's, the statue is dressed in the official Indian kit as well as shoes and gloves donated by the sportsman himself. From Thursday onwards, Kohli will sit alongside legends such as Usain Bolt, Sir Mo Farah and fellow Indian cricket star Sachin Tendulkar. Tarah Cunynghame, Head of Retail & Tours at Lord's Cricket Ground, said, "Lord's is the perfect backdrop to reveal this fantastic figure of Virat Kohli on the eve of the Cricket World Cup. The anticipation of the exciting summer of cricket has already started, with thousands of visitors coming to the Ground and enjoying a tour of Lord's and around the MCC Museum. "The figure of the famous batsman will delight any cricket fans visiting Madame Tussauds London," Davies said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India opens their campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Virat Kohli's wax statue unveiled at Lord's to mark ICC World Cup launch

On the eve of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, all captains of the participating nations paid a visit to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London.&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of World Cup, hosted by England and Wales, is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace in the presence of many cricketing legends like Viv Richards, Anil Kumble and Jacques Kallis.&nbsp;

During the event, a unique 60-second challenge was played in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs.

Pakistan was represented by the Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai along with former cricketer Azhar Ali.&nbsp;

While Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar and World Cup-winner Anil Kumble represented Team India.&nbsp;

England came out as the winners as they scored 74 in one minute whereas India finished at the bottom as they scored just 19.&nbsp;

After the game, Malala took a dig at India's performance, she said, "Pakistan, we were okay, not too bad. We came seventh. But at least we were not last like India."&nbsp;

"India played really well, they tried their best and we appreciate their hardwork," said the advocate of girl's education.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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Malala, Farhan Akhtar, KP, Brett Lee, Anil Kumble, the World Cup song. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> opening party was... well, a big party! <a href="https://t.co/E9sT0GIPUB">pic.twitter.com/E9sT0GIPUB</a>
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNcricinfo/status/1133980915682557952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Although, her light-hearted comments were not taken sportingly and one of the Twitter users even said that the comment displayed "hate towards India".&nbsp;

Yousafzai further added the&nbsp;importance of women taking up cricket sports and urged that women must engage more in all types of sports.&nbsp;

"Right now were are seeing more and more women taking part in sporting activities," Yousafzai said.

"In Pakistan, we have some amazing cricketers, including Sana Mir. These role models are inspiring women to believe in themselves that they are capable of anything. Women should engage more in sports and we all have to contribute to that and encourage women and girls," she added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains

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England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all captains of the participating nations paid a visit to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London.

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all captains of the participating nations paid a visit to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London. The twelfth edition of World Cup, hosted by England and Wales, is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace in the presence of many cricketing legends like Viv Richards, Anil Kumble and Jacques Kallis. During the event, a unique 60-second challenge was played in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs. Pakistan was represented by the Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai along with former cricketer Azhar Ali. While Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar and World Cup-winner Anil Kumble represented Team India. England came out as the winners as they scored 74 in one minute whereas India finished at the bottom as they scored just 19. After the game, Malala took a dig at India's performance, she said, "Pakistan, we were okay, not too bad. We came seventh. But at least we were not last like India." "India played really well, they tried their best and we appreciate their hardwork," said the advocate of girl's education. Watch the video: Malala, Farhan Akhtar, KP, Brett Lee, Anil Kumble, the World Cup song. The #CWC19 opening party was... well, a big party! pic.twitter.com/E9sT0GIPUB — ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) May 30, 2019 × Although, her light-hearted comments were not taken sportingly and one of the Twitter users even said that the comment displayed "hate towards India". Yousafzai further added the importance of women taking up cricket sports and urged that women must engage more in all types of sports. "Right now were are seeing more and more women taking part in sporting activities," Yousafzai said. "In Pakistan, we have some amazing cricketers, including Sana Mir. These role models are inspiring women to believe in themselves that they are capable of anything. Women should engage more in sports and we all have to contribute to that and encourage women and girls," she added. Watch: Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains × England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup at the Oval in London.

At least we were not last like India: Malala Yousafzai's dig at friendly match ahead of Cricket World Cup

All you need to know about the venues of the Cricket World Cup 2019

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff.

Indian skipper <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammad-saifuddin-dismisses-virat-kohli-with-a-stunning-yorker-in-warm-up-match-222319&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjB9arZ_7_iAhWg73MBHaTtBg8QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vcvyZuVlyuGvxono7scX6">Virat Kohli</a> scored 47 off 46 balls with five boundaries before Rahul and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZgbuw_7_iAhVGOSsKHQ9sChYQFjAFegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QLJj6_Zf7KWeSM3YKt_o7">Dhoni </a>added 164 runs in a fifth-wicket stand.

The partnership came to an end with the dismissal of Rahul, who finished with 108 off 99 balls with 12 fours and four sixes.

Rahul made the squad as a back-up opener but he is also competing for the number four spot alongside all-rounder Vijay Shankar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik.

"The biggest positive from today was the way KL batted at number four. He is such a class player,"&nbsp;Kohli said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-says-ms-dhoni-best-suited-at-no-5-for-india-at-the-icc-cricket-world-cup-220855&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZgbuw_7_iAhVGOSsKHQ9sChYQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3dH6cn6nWXT8DNcdAxm6PV">Former captain Dhoni</a> reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya made a 21-run cameo to take the total to 359-7.

Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar made a steady start to the run chase before they were rattled by Jasprit Bumrah's double strike in the 10th over.

Sarkar was caught behind for 25 and Shakib perished to a perfect yorker for a first-ball duck.

Das (73) and Mushfiqur Rahim (90) offered some resistance with a 120-run partnership for the third wicket but they failed to step up the scoring rate against India's wrist spinning duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the middle overs.

Das was dismissed by Chahal in the 32nd over, triggering a batting collapse as Bangladesh went from 169-2 to 216-8.

Both Chahal and Yadav finished with three wickets each as Bangladesh were bowled out for 264.

Kohli was pleased with his bowling unit ahead of their tournament opener against South Africa on June 5.

"Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," he said.

"In the second half (in the coming matches), the ball might turn a little bit but initially the ball will swing and seam, which will be the most important phase," Kohli said.

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359. Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff. Indian skipper Virat Kohli scored 47 off 46 balls with five boundaries before Rahul and Dhoni added 164 runs in a fifth-wicket stand. The partnership came to an end with the dismissal of Rahul, who finished with 108 off 99 balls with 12 fours and four sixes. Rahul made the squad as a back-up opener but he is also competing for the number four spot alongside all-rounder Vijay Shankar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik. "The biggest positive from today was the way KL batted at number four. He is such a class player," Kohli said. Former captain Dhoni reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over. All-rounder Hardik Pandya made a 21-run cameo to take the total to 359-7. Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar made a steady start to the run chase before they were rattled by Jasprit Bumrah's double strike in the 10th over. Sarkar was caught behind for 25 and Shakib perished to a perfect yorker for a first-ball duck. Das (73) and Mushfiqur Rahim (90) offered some resistance with a 120-run partnership for the third wicket but they failed to step up the scoring rate against India's wrist spinning duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the middle overs. Das was dismissed by Chahal in the 32nd over, triggering a batting collapse as Bangladesh went from 169-2 to 216-8. Both Chahal and Yadav finished with three wickets each as Bangladesh were bowled out for 264. Kohli was pleased with his bowling unit ahead of their tournament opener against South Africa on June 5. "Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," he said. "In the second half (in the coming matches), the ball might turn a little bit but initially the ball will swing and seam, which will be the most important phase," Kohli said.

MS Dhoni, KL Rahul hit tons as India beat Bangladesh in World Cup warm-up

Former England left-arm spinner Phil Tufnell on Wednesday labelled all-rounder Moeen Ali as 'truly fantastic' and said that the player gives the team fantastic depth and cited him as the key player in the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

"Moeen Ali is a truly fantastic all-rounder. Coming in later in the order, he would be as able as anyone to get a run-a-ball century, just as much as any of the lads at the top of the order," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Tufnell as saying.

"He gives us fantastic depth and bowls his off-spin very, very nicely. I see him as a lot more than a part-time bowler, he has got rid of that tag now. Ali is a genuine off-spin bowler for England now, and bowls it really well, so he is going to have a big role to play in those middle overs," he added.

Tufnell played 42 Test matches for England and took 121 wickets in them.

He believes that England has a very good chance of lifting the <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=2ahUKEwicv-Tl5cDiAhUH3Y8KHSrjCKgQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3A3jlGTfBWL778aeOSwq99">World Cup</a> trophy this year.

He even said that the tag of 'favourites' will have no effect on Eoin Morgan-led side.

"People have been talking about the pressure of playing at home, but I see it as a good thing. The guys will feel at home with the conditions and pitches, having played at all these grounds before. And this time, they will be cheered on by that home crowd," Tufnell said.

"The best players in the world are here, and there is going to be some truly fantastic cricket. I think we are going to win it, but of course, I am going to say that," he added.

England was able to win their last warm-up fixture against Afghanistan by nine 9 wickets on Monday ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

However, the team had initially lost their opening warm-up match against Australia by 12 runs on May 25.

England's final squad for the World Cup:

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/eoin-morgan-tells-england-to-embrace-world-cup-excitement-222230&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwicv-Tl5cDiAhUH3Y8KHSrjCKgQFjAEegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0VyBJ7nWbkkEaLd9cTClE4">Eoin Morgan</a> (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14.

England will take on South Africa in the opening match of the tournament on May 30.

Former England left-arm spinner Phil Tufnell on Wednesday labelled all-rounder Moeen Ali as 'truly fantastic' and said that the player gives the team fantastic depth and cited him as the key player in the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

Former England left-arm spinner Phil Tufnell on Wednesday labelled all-rounder Moeen Ali as 'truly fantastic' and said that the player gives the team fantastic depth and cited him as the key player in the upcoming Cricket World Cup. "Moeen Ali is a truly fantastic all-rounder. Coming in later in the order, he would be as able as anyone to get a run-a-ball century, just as much as any of the lads at the top of the order," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Tufnell as saying. "He gives us fantastic depth and bowls his off-spin very, very nicely. I see him as a lot more than a part-time bowler, he has got rid of that tag now. Ali is a genuine off-spin bowler for England now, and bowls it really well, so he is going to have a big role to play in those middle overs," he added. Tufnell played 42 Test matches for England and took 121 wickets in them. He believes that England has a very good chance of lifting the World Cup trophy this year. He even said that the tag of 'favourites' will have no effect on Eoin Morgan-led side. "People have been talking about the pressure of playing at home, but I see it as a good thing. The guys will feel at home with the conditions and pitches, having played at all these grounds before. And this time, they will be cheered on by that home crowd," Tufnell said. "The best players in the world are here, and there is going to be some truly fantastic cricket. I think we are going to win it, but of course, I am going to say that," he added. England was able to win their last warm-up fixture against Afghanistan by nine 9 wickets on Monday ahead of the upcoming World Cup. However, the team had initially lost their opening warm-up match against Australia by 12 runs on May 25. England's final squad for the World Cup: Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood. The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. England will take on South Africa in the opening match of the tournament on May 30.

'Moeen Ali is a truly fantastic all-rounder', says former England spinner Phil Tufnell

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/consistency-key-for-dangerous-west-indies-at-world-cup-brian-lara-208975&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjM7PKi6MDiAhVMuo8KHaVdCMUQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jUSDUXjOzNR9CgLVwOD9Y">West Indies</a> missed a historic run-mark in their second World Cup warm-up match.

The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-gayle-named-vice-captain-of-windies-world-cup-team-216601&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjM7PKi6MDiAhVMuo8KHaVdCMUQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1e5yLV0-qZCv-IPbpVc-qC">Caribbean side</a> fell short of 79 runs to post the first-ever target of 500 runs in one-day international (ODI).

Century by Shai Hope and half-century by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/andre-russell-named-in-west-indies-world-cup-squad-kieron-pollard-and-sunil-narine-omitted-213370&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjM7PKi6MDiAhVMuo8KHaVdCMUQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw23HYA6N_xgtzGJJdpMcuxr">Andre Russell</a> helped West Indies to score a mammoth total after being asked to bat first.

On the 500-run mark, Shai said that it is definitely a goal and they can achieve it at some point with the batting power they have.

"It is definitely a goal we can try to achieve at some point," Hope said.

"Definitely, it would be great to be the first team to cross that 500 mark, and I am sure we have the batting firepower to do it," said Shai Hope.

Talking about the team performance batting all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite said that the tailenders can't contribute the same as they played against New Zealand, Also, it depends on the intent, situation, and execution from the batsmen.

"However, in a real game, you probably won't have the depth in batting at 10 and 11 that we had today. So you need to be a little real about the target," said Carlos Brathwaite.

"But what I will say is the intent and the execution from batsman to batsman, situation to situation, believe it or not, there were some times when we consolidated. So that was beautiful. Just to play what was probably the perfect batting innings as a team. Hopefully, we can get 325 consistently. That is probably about par in these conditions. And then, the odd day we can get 400 and give the bowlers a little bit of leeway," added Brathwaite.

Further, Carlos applauds Andre Russell over his batting style and his big hitting capabilities.

"Russell is just incredible, a freak of nature, really. I don't really know what to say about him. He just hits it, and once he hits it, it goes for six. It is a pleasure to be on the same team as him, I can tell you that. If you are on the field, you are not sure what you are going to bowl at him. It is just nice to enjoy from the inside," said Brathwaite.

A big part of West Indies chances of making 500 is Andre Russell, who brought his unreal form in the Indian Premier League to this match.

He made 54 from 25 balls and had he stayed at the crease for longer, West Indies would have been looking at 450-plus.

West Indies will take on Pakistan in their opening match of the World Cup on May 31 at Trent Bridge.

West Indies missed a historic run-mark in their second World Cup warm-up match. The Caribbean side fell short of 79 runs to post the first-ever target of 500 runs in one-day international (ODI).

West Indies missed a historic run-mark in their second World Cup warm-up match. The Caribbean side fell short of 79 runs to post the first-ever target of 500 runs in one-day international (ODI). Century by Shai Hope and half-century by Andre Russell helped West Indies to score a mammoth total after being asked to bat first. On the 500-run mark, Shai said that it is definitely a goal and they can achieve it at some point with the batting power they have. "It is definitely a goal we can try to achieve at some point," Hope said. "Definitely, it would be great to be the first team to cross that 500 mark, and I am sure we have the batting firepower to do it," said Shai Hope. Talking about the team performance batting all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite said that the tailenders can't contribute the same as they played against New Zealand, Also, it depends on the intent, situation, and execution from the batsmen. "However, in a real game, you probably won't have the depth in batting at 10 and 11 that we had today. So you need to be a little real about the target," said Carlos Brathwaite. "But what I will say is the intent and the execution from batsman to batsman, situation to situation, believe it or not, there were some times when we consolidated. So that was beautiful. Just to play what was probably the perfect batting innings as a team. Hopefully, we can get 325 consistently. That is probably about par in these conditions. And then, the odd day we can get 400 and give the bowlers a little bit of leeway," added Brathwaite. Further, Carlos applauds Andre Russell over his batting style and his big hitting capabilities. "Russell is just incredible, a freak of nature, really. I don't really know what to say about him. He just hits it, and once he hits it, it goes for six. It is a pleasure to be on the same team as him, I can tell you that. If you are on the field, you are not sure what you are going to bowl at him. It is just nice to enjoy from the inside," said Brathwaite. A big part of West Indies chances of making 500 is Andre Russell, who brought his unreal form in the Indian Premier League to this match. He made 54 from 25 balls and had he stayed at the crease for longer, West Indies would have been looking at 450-plus. West Indies will take on Pakistan in their opening match of the World Cup on May 31 at Trent Bridge.

West Indies miss 500-run mark in World Cup warm-up match agaisnt New Zealand

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30.&nbsp;

The warm-up matches are over and teams have done all necessary preparations for the big event, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world.&nbsp;

The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages.

England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries.&nbsp;

This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999.&nbsp;

England launch the World Cup&nbsp;as favourites to bludgeon their way to victory for the first time but will fear a Virat Kohli-inspired India and a hungry Australia.

The host nation have never won the tournament, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992, but there is a growing sense their current crop of players can end 45 years of pain.

Boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, England are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game, while Kohli's India are also packed with superstars who have honed their skills in the Indian Premier League.

Reigning champions Australia, who won their fifth title in 2015, are boosted by the returns of star batsmen Smith and David Warner after both served bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal.

New Zealand and South Africa will also harbour hopes of World Cup glory in the 10-team tournament, in which each side will play all the others to decide the semi-finalists.

Former winners Pakistan can never be ruled out and West Indies, featuring self-styled "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle for possibly the final time in ODIs, will fancy their chances of a first World Cup triumph since 1979.

In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event, which runs from May 30 until July 14.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="199002da-69ec-4129-9162-f2166a372c8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_5.jpg" />
And the all-play-all format guarantees nine pay-days each for the world's leading cricket nations.&nbsp;

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30.

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30. The warm-up matches are over and teams have done all necessary preparations for the big event, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world. The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages. England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries. This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999. England launch the World Cup as favourites to bludgeon their way to victory for the first time but will fear a Virat Kohli-inspired India and a hungry Australia. The host nation have never won the tournament, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992, but there is a growing sense their current crop of players can end 45 years of pain. Boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, England are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game, while Kohli's India are also packed with superstars who have honed their skills in the Indian Premier League. Reigning champions Australia, who won their fifth title in 2015, are boosted by the returns of star batsmen Smith and David Warner after both served bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal. New Zealand and South Africa will also harbour hopes of World Cup glory in the 10-team tournament, in which each side will play all the others to decide the semi-finalists. Former winners Pakistan can never be ruled out and West Indies, featuring self-styled "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle for possibly the final time in ODIs, will fancy their chances of a first World Cup triumph since 1979. In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event, which runs from May 30 until July 14. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: And the all-play-all format guarantees nine pay-days each for the world's leading cricket nations.

One day to go before Cricket World Cup frenzy begins

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">KL Rahul's century</a> in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere.

Two-time champions India continue to fret over the problematic batting position after a number of candidates failed their auditions in the buildup to the World Cup.

Chief selector MSK Prasad had made it clear that all-rounder Vijay Shankar was the first choice for the spot while Rahul, generally an opening batsman, was another option.

Batting at number four, Rahul managed only six in Saturday's warm-up match against New Zealand but followed it up with 108 off 99 balls in their 95-run victory in Cardiff.

Rahul's assured innings, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes, seems to have sealed the deal with Indian captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammad-saifuddin-dismisses-virat-kohli-with-a-stunning-yorker-in-warm-up-match-222319">Virat Kohli</a> saying his contribution was the "biggest positive" from the game.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3b2740-508d-4294-9381-5e07fe915b6f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_3.jpg" />
"I'm really happy with how I've bounced back and this gives me lots of confidence," Rahul told reporters after the game.

"Where I play is not for me to decide. It's a team game and you need to be flexible. You need to be ready to bat, whatever role you are given, you have to take what is thrown at you," Rahul said.

Rahul built a 164-run partnership for the fifth wicket with wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a century of his own, to give India a commanding total of 359.

"(Dhoni) just dominated the spinners and is striking the ball so well. It's a great sign for us and it's just a pleasure to watch him from the other end when he is playing like that," Rahul added.

India begin their quest for a third World Cup title on June 5 when they take on South Africa at The Rose Bowl. 
&nbsp;

KL Rahul's century in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere.

KL Rahul's century in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere. Two-time champions India continue to fret over the problematic batting position after a number of candidates failed their auditions in the buildup to the World Cup. Chief selector MSK Prasad had made it clear that all-rounder Vijay Shankar was the first choice for the spot while Rahul, generally an opening batsman, was another option. Batting at number four, Rahul managed only six in Saturday's warm-up match against New Zealand but followed it up with 108 off 99 balls in their 95-run victory in Cardiff. Rahul's assured innings, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes, seems to have sealed the deal with Indian captain Virat Kohli saying his contribution was the "biggest positive" from the game. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "I'm really happy with how I've bounced back and this gives me lots of confidence," Rahul told reporters after the game. "Where I play is not for me to decide. It's a team game and you need to be flexible. You need to be ready to bat, whatever role you are given, you have to take what is thrown at you," Rahul said. Rahul built a 164-run partnership for the fifth wicket with wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a century of his own, to give India a commanding total of 359. "(Dhoni) just dominated the spinners and is striking the ball so well. It's a great sign for us and it's just a pleasure to watch him from the other end when he is playing like that," Rahul added. India begin their quest for a third World Cup title on June 5 when they take on South Africa at The Rose Bowl.

KL Rahul answers India's number four conundrum for World Cup with Cardiff ton

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-usman-khawaja-given-all-clear-after-head-knock-in-world-cup-warm-up-game-against-windies-220805&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVr_yuvr3iAhVJYo8KHV86CzQQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2gdMUGcRGpI4-WkFoSXW7E">Usman Khawaja</a> provided Australia coach Justin Langer with a selection headache ahead of the defending champion's Cricket World Cup opener on Saturday against Afghanistan with another strong outing in their final warmup match.

The left-hander, batting in his preferred opening position, anchored Australia's five-wicket victory with the top score of 89 against Sri Lanka.

Langer now has the unenviable task of trying to decide the makeup of his batting lineup for their first game in Bristol, with captain Aaron Finch and the recalled <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-smith-warner-return-ricky-ponting-backs-usman-khawaja-to-make-australias-world-cup-squad-204481&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVr_yuvr3iAhVJYo8KHV86CzQQFjABegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rdpgfKqA89k4uiFkXG-x7">David Warner also in the mix to open the innings</a>.

Khawaja, who only returned to the one-day side earlier this year after a two-year absence, has prospered upon his recall and scored 655 runs in 10 innings as an opener, well above his career average of 44.21.

Warner's return from a 12-month ban for ball tampering and his scintillating form in the Indian Premier League, where he was the top run scorer, has complicated the equation but Khawaja does not care where he bats.

"I do love opening, that's where I've batted my whole life in one-day cricket," Khawaja told reporters.

"(But) I wasn't thinking about securing an opening berth," he said of Monday's innings where he rotated the strike and kept the scoreboard ticking over.&nbsp;

"It's about winning games and doing the best for the team," he added.&nbsp;

Khawaja's innings -&nbsp;he hit only three boundaries in his 105-ball knock -&nbsp;was impressive given he had sustained a painful blow to the inside of his knee while fielding.

"It's sore," said Khawaja, who also had retired hurt against West Indies last week after being struck in the head by an Andre Russell bouncer.

"I was told to stay down but I thought I wasn't going to do that, so I tried to get up and my knee just collapsed underneath me. I iced it for about 25 minutes and (there is) nothing structurally wrong," he said.

Whatever lineup Langer chooses to send out against Afghanistan, Khawaja said the side were confident they could go on and secure Australia's sixth World Cup title after they have turned the side's fortunes around in the last three months.

They have won their last eight official one-day international matches, which includes series victories in India and the UAE against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Prior to the start of that winning run at Ranchi in early March, the team had lost 15 of their previous 18 ODIs and Khawaja said he knew which result he preferred.

"I know what it feels like when you're losing and I know what it's like when winning, it`s obvious which one you want," he said.

"Winning is a habit, we say that a lot among the team. We want to keep that going, we might have lost that before, but we might have found that again heading into the World Cup," Khawaja added.

Usman Khawaja provided Australia coach Justin Langer with a selection headache ahead of the defending champion's Cricket World Cup opener on Saturday against Afghanistan with another strong outing in their final warmup match.

Usman Khawaja provided Australia coach Justin Langer with a selection headache ahead of the defending champion's Cricket World Cup opener on Saturday against Afghanistan with another strong outing in their final warmup match. The left-hander, batting in his preferred opening position, anchored Australia's five-wicket victory with the top score of 89 against Sri Lanka. Langer now has the unenviable task of trying to decide the makeup of his batting lineup for their first game in Bristol, with captain Aaron Finch and the recalled David Warner also in the mix to open the innings. Khawaja, who only returned to the one-day side earlier this year after a two-year absence, has prospered upon his recall and scored 655 runs in 10 innings as an opener, well above his career average of 44.21. Warner's return from a 12-month ban for ball tampering and his scintillating form in the Indian Premier League, where he was the top run scorer, has complicated the equation but Khawaja does not care where he bats. "I do love opening, that's where I've batted my whole life in one-day cricket," Khawaja told reporters. "(But) I wasn't thinking about securing an opening berth," he said of Monday's innings where he rotated the strike and kept the scoreboard ticking over. "It's about winning games and doing the best for the team," he added. Khawaja's innings - he hit only three boundaries in his 105-ball knock - was impressive given he had sustained a painful blow to the inside of his knee while fielding. "It's sore," said Khawaja, who also had retired hurt against West Indies last week after being struck in the head by an Andre Russell bouncer. "I was told to stay down but I thought I wasn't going to do that, so I tried to get up and my knee just collapsed underneath me. I iced it for about 25 minutes and (there is) nothing structurally wrong," he said. Whatever lineup Langer chooses to send out against Afghanistan, Khawaja said the side were confident they could go on and secure Australia's sixth World Cup title after they have turned the side's fortunes around in the last three months. They have won their last eight official one-day international matches, which includes series victories in India and the UAE against Pakistan. Prior to the start of that winning run at Ranchi in early March, the team had lost 15 of their previous 18 ODIs and Khawaja said he knew which result he preferred. "I know what it feels like when you're losing and I know what it's like when winning, it`s obvious which one you want," he said. "Winning is a habit, we say that a lot among the team. We want to keep that going, we might have lost that before, but we might have found that again heading into the World Cup," Khawaja added.

Usman Khawaja causes selection headache before Australia's opening World Cup game

Lasith Malinga's once-express pace has dropped as Father Time has caught up with the right-arm quick, but his guile should propel him to a few individual milestones at his fourth and final <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cricket+World+Cup">Cricket World Cup</a>.

Malinga, who turns 36 in August, is on the cusp of breaking into the all-time top-10 one-day international wicket-takers, with his tally of 322 just one behind former teammate Sanath Jayasuriya.

Muttiah Muralitharan heads the list with 534 wickets.

Malinga has also taken three ODI hat-tricks and is the only player to have achieved the milestone twice during a World Cup.

His first <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/winner-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-to-earn-highest-prize-money-in-history-of-tournament-219380&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDzKKA9r3iAhVM63MBHQXkAvcQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Cn8oNUMXZnNYlgovUFx9V">World Cup</a> hat-trick was when he dismissed four South African batsmen in four balls in Guyana in 2007 -- the only player to have achieved that feat in the tournament.

He then took another hat-trick against Kenya four years later in Colombo and while he said it would be nice to add a third in England and Wales, he was just keen on taking wickets when Sri Lanka start their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1.

"I know I've got the skills to take wickets and (that) gives me confidence," Malinga told the International Cricket Council website.

"One of the things I like about playing in England is you have to adapt to every condition. It could be really hot or quite cold and that is a real test of your skill as a bowler,'' Malinga said.

"Why can't I get another hat-trick? I will be trying and that would be special," he added.

Malinga has already said that his fourth Cricket World Cup will be his last, with him targeting an international retirement after the World Twenty20 tournament in Australia next year.

He will however still anchor the pace attack with his ability to bowl fast swinging yorkers and well-directed bouncer and disguise changes in pace.

The 1996 champions have struggled in the 50-over format this year, having lost eight of their nine completed matches, with their only victory against Scotland in Edinburgh.

Malinga, however, felt the side could surprise opposition teams in the round-robin format.

"In previous years perhaps we had bigger names but these guys are very talented and they are looking forward to proving themselves and making people notice them," he said.

"We have the best 15 players in Sri Lanka right now and we have a mix of more experienced players and some exciting young players, who just can't wait to get started," Malinga added.

Lasith Malinga's once-express pace has dropped as Father Time has caught up with the right-arm quick, but his guile should propel him to a few individual milestones at his fourth and final Cricket World Cup.

Lasith Malinga's once-express pace has dropped as Father Time has caught up with the right-arm quick, but his guile should propel him to a few individual milestones at his fourth and final Cricket World Cup. Malinga, who turns 36 in August, is on the cusp of breaking into the all-time top-10 one-day international wicket-takers, with his tally of 322 just one behind former teammate Sanath Jayasuriya. Muttiah Muralitharan heads the list with 534 wickets. Malinga has also taken three ODI hat-tricks and is the only player to have achieved the milestone twice during a World Cup. His first World Cup hat-trick was when he dismissed four South African batsmen in four balls in Guyana in 2007 -- the only player to have achieved that feat in the tournament. He then took another hat-trick against Kenya four years later in Colombo and while he said it would be nice to add a third in England and Wales, he was just keen on taking wickets when Sri Lanka start their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1. "I know I've got the skills to take wickets and (that) gives me confidence," Malinga told the International Cricket Council website. "One of the things I like about playing in England is you have to adapt to every condition. It could be really hot or quite cold and that is a real test of your skill as a bowler,'' Malinga said. "Why can't I get another hat-trick? I will be trying and that would be special," he added. Malinga has already said that his fourth Cricket World Cup will be his last, with him targeting an international retirement after the World Twenty20 tournament in Australia next year. He will however still anchor the pace attack with his ability to bowl fast swinging yorkers and well-directed bouncer and disguise changes in pace. The 1996 champions have struggled in the 50-over format this year, having lost eight of their nine completed matches, with their only victory against Scotland in Edinburgh. Malinga, however, felt the side could surprise opposition teams in the round-robin format. "In previous years perhaps we had bigger names but these guys are very talented and they are looking forward to proving themselves and making people notice them," he said. "We have the best 15 players in Sri Lanka right now and we have a mix of more experienced players and some exciting young players, who just can't wait to get started," Malinga added.

Milestones beckon for Lasith Malinga in World Cup 2019 swansong

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420">India </a>need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-i-prepare-myself-for-world-cup-will-be-real-challenge-for-me-vijay-shankar-219589">Vijay Shankar</a> is set to bat at number four in the earlier games.

Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes <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=2ahUKEwjQi-bjhbHiAhXM_XMBHT6qBvAQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2F5wk0k7uAwWI_lkpFFqMM">Tendulkar</a>.

"My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo.

"I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat at No. 3</a> and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said.

"That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-needs-ms-dhoni-in-2019-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-174415&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV4u2DhrHiAhWKPo8KHdLkDsU4ChAWMAN6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1mpLLYAel5FcZKB5KiPtPD">Dhoni </a>can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added.

Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners.

"A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said.

"And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added.

England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing.

"I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said.

"It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar. Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder Vijay Shankar is set to bat at number four in the earlier games. Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes Tendulkar. "My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo. "I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to Virat at No. 3 and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said. "That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and Dhoni can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added. Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners. "A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said. "And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added. England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing. "I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said. "It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

Sachin Tendulkar says, MS Dhoni best suited at No 5 for India at the Cricket World Cup 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420">Team India</a> has&nbsp;arrived in London to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup, beginning May 30.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the team and staff on Twitter with a caption, reading, "Touchdown London #TeamIndia".

Ahead of the World Cup, warm-up matches will take place.

Each team will get an opportunity to play two games.

India will face New Zealand on May 25 in its first warm-up followed by a match against Bangladesh on May 28.

At a pre-departure press conference held at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on Tuesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-bigger-motivation-than-indian-army-virat-kohli-ahead-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-220427">Kohli </a>opined that they are entering in the tournament with a balanced and a strong side.

"We are going into the World Cup as a balanced and strong side. You saw in the IPL as well. All the players in the squad are in great form and playing really well. I think from that point of view, we just expect ourselves to play the best cricket we can," the Indian captain said.

All the 10 teams will face each other in a Round Robin format.

Calling it the most challenging World Cup, Kohli said, "It`s the most challenging one of all three that I've been part of because of the format. Looking at the strength of all the sides as well. If you look at Afghanistan from 2015 to now, they are completely different side. Any team can upset anyone on their given day. That's one thing we have in our mind."

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Following is India's&nbsp;15-man squad: 

Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

India will kick-off its World Cup campaign against South Africa at Hampshire Bowl. Southampton on June 5.

Team India has arrived in London to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup, beginning May 30. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the team and staff on Twitter with a caption, reading, "Touchdown London #TeamIndia".

Team India has arrived in London to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup, beginning May 30. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the team and staff on Twitter with a caption, reading, "Touchdown London #TeamIndia". Ahead of the World Cup, warm-up matches will take place. Each team will get an opportunity to play two games. India will face New Zealand on May 25 in its first warm-up followed by a match against Bangladesh on May 28. At a pre-departure press conference held at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on Tuesday, Kohli opined that they are entering in the tournament with a balanced and a strong side. "We are going into the World Cup as a balanced and strong side. You saw in the IPL as well. All the players in the squad are in great form and playing really well. I think from that point of view, we just expect ourselves to play the best cricket we can," the Indian captain said. All the 10 teams will face each other in a Round Robin format. Calling it the most challenging World Cup, Kohli said, "It`s the most challenging one of all three that I've been part of because of the format. Looking at the strength of all the sides as well. If you look at Afghanistan from 2015 to now, they are completely different side. Any team can upset anyone on their given day. That's one thing we have in our mind." Touchdown London #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/mWihuGrnjw — BCCI (@BCCI) May 22, 2019 × Following is India's 15-man squad: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami. India will kick-off its World Cup campaign against South Africa at Hampshire Bowl. Southampton on June 5.

Team India arrives in London ahead of the ICC World Cup

Pakistan fast bowler <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-amir-wahab-riaz-named-in-pakistans-world-cup-squad-220106&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjezbDq9rDiAhX54XMBHaGeD0EQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3l0NOD5ZZBsAysos7dI_xz">Wahab Riaz,</a> who recently found a spot in his country's final 15-man <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-world-cup-jinx-against-india-england-south-africas-horror-history-219426&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi2u5Wj97DiAhVP8XMBHXHICxAQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2wh5PIhtCKEfG0BOIA19-_">World Cup</a> squad, is keen to prove coach Mickey Arthur wrong by excelling in the premier tournament.

"Now it's about what we are going to do in the World Cup. Obviously, it`s the coach's duty to get the best results from the players, and he wants players that can win matches for the team. I also wanted to be in the team, the only difference is I missed two years of (international) cricket. Now I am in and want to prove him (Arthur) wrong and justify my opportunity," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Riaz, as saying.

In 2018, Arthur had criticised Riaz for his work ethic and even went on to say that the pacer has not won them a game in two years.

Riaz has not played an ODI match since June 2017 and was not named in the 17 men who were in England recently for a five-match ODI series.

However, Riaz remained optimistic throughout and said that he does not want to waste the opportunity he has got.

"You can't say it was unfair (that I was selected). I kept on hearing that I might be chosen for the Australia series or the one against England, but it didn`t work out. It was Allah's will that my selection was meant for the World Cup directly, but I have been praying that whatever happens should happen for good," he said.

"Being named in the squad and then not being able to perform will be another unfortunate thing as there is a lot of expectation. I hope for the best and want to take this opportunity to move on and perform," he added.

However, after Riaz's inclusion, Junaid Khan did not find a spot in the final squad even after being named in the preliminary 15-member team.

Riaz stated he understands Khan's situation and says he has also gone through similar situations.

"Every player wishes to play for Pakistan and the World Cup is the biggest challenge in your career. Obviously, he will be saddened and very frustrated, and must be thinking he had been treated unfairly. But when I was out for two years, I was thinking the same. At the end, this is the Pakistan team and its selectors, coaches and captains make the decision. I am sure this wasn't meant to hurt someone but it's for the country, and whatever they think is good for Pakistan," Riaz&nbsp;said.

Pakistan will face West Indies in their first World Cup 2019 clash on May 31.&nbsp;

Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz, who recently found a spot in his country's final 15-man World Cup squad, is keen to prove coach Mickey Arthur wrong by excelling in the premier tournament.

Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz, who recently found a spot in his country's final 15-man World Cup squad, is keen to prove coach Mickey Arthur wrong by excelling in the premier tournament. "Now it's about what we are going to do in the World Cup. Obviously, it`s the coach's duty to get the best results from the players, and he wants players that can win matches for the team. I also wanted to be in the team, the only difference is I missed two years of (international) cricket. Now I am in and want to prove him (Arthur) wrong and justify my opportunity," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Riaz, as saying. In 2018, Arthur had criticised Riaz for his work ethic and even went on to say that the pacer has not won them a game in two years. Riaz has not played an ODI match since June 2017 and was not named in the 17 men who were in England recently for a five-match ODI series. However, Riaz remained optimistic throughout and said that he does not want to waste the opportunity he has got. "You can't say it was unfair (that I was selected). I kept on hearing that I might be chosen for the Australia series or the one against England, but it didn`t work out. It was Allah's will that my selection was meant for the World Cup directly, but I have been praying that whatever happens should happen for good," he said. "Being named in the squad and then not being able to perform will be another unfortunate thing as there is a lot of expectation. I hope for the best and want to take this opportunity to move on and perform," he added. However, after Riaz's inclusion, Junaid Khan did not find a spot in the final squad even after being named in the preliminary 15-member team. Riaz stated he understands Khan's situation and says he has also gone through similar situations. "Every player wishes to play for Pakistan and the World Cup is the biggest challenge in your career. Obviously, he will be saddened and very frustrated, and must be thinking he had been treated unfairly. But when I was out for two years, I was thinking the same. At the end, this is the Pakistan team and its selectors, coaches and captains make the decision. I am sure this wasn't meant to hurt someone but it's for the country, and whatever they think is good for Pakistan," Riaz said. Pakistan will face West Indies in their first World Cup 2019 clash on May 31.

Want to prove coach Mickey Arthur wrong, Wahab Riaz after getting World Cup call

<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=2ahUKEwi53Z_26rDiAhXJ4HMBHbthCNgQFjAEegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Cots3ZkxqWRSq40jDTARF'">Australia </a>opener Usman Khawaja was cleared of serious injury after taking a nasty blow to the head and being forced to retire hurt from a World Cup warmup against West Indies in Southampton on Wednesday.

Khawaja underwent scans on his jaw after being struck by an Andre Russell bouncer in the second over of Australia's innings and escorted from the Rose Bowl's Nursery Ground.

Australia went on to win the match by seven wickets.

"It was very scary. It copped him on the side of the cheekbone, I think. The main thing is he is okay and can bounce back pretty quickly", Australia batsman Shaun Marsh, who scored 55 not out batting at number five, told reporters.

"Obviously (he was) a bit shaken, as you are when you get hit on the head, but Uzzy's a tough cookie and he'll be ready to go", Marsh added.

Marsh and returning former captain <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cricket-coach-justin-langer-compares-steve-smith-to-sachin-tendulkar-219879&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzj7Gl67DiAhVzmuYKHS7-CekQFjAEegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1MtFQBcwRvpa4X1OzvnT6F">Steve Smith</a> put on 109 for the third wicket as Australia chased down West Indies' tally of 229 inside 39 overs.

Smith hit seven fours and two sixes in his 76 and Marsh said it was good to see him and former vice-captain David Warner, who scored 12, back in the groove after the end of their one-year bans for the Newlands ball-tampering scandal.

"(Smith) has just come back and just done what he&nbsp;usually does and scored runs," Marsh said.

"It's just fantastic to have them both back in the team. They are both really valuable players for us," Marsh added.

With <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-coach-darren-lehmann-expects-steve-smith-and-david-warner-to-shine-for-australia-in-world-cup-218723&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzj7Gl67DiAhVzmuYKHS7-CekQFjAFegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2MDgFXc94V36XuS7w-n-1q">Smith and Warner back</a>, Marsh is not certain of a place in the side for the World Cup opener against Afghanistan in Bristol on June 1 but he thought his versatility might work in his favour.

"I think I'm nice and flexible. I've batted from one to six over my career so I'll just enjoy the last two warmup matches and we'll see," Marsh said.

The defending champions' next warmup is against World Cup hosts England, who top the world rankings, at the main Rose Bowl ground on Saturday.

"I think it's going to be a great challenge and we'll see where we're at," Marsh concluded.

Australia opener Usman Khawaja was cleared of serious injury after taking a nasty blow to the head and being forced to retire hurt from a World Cup warmup against West Indies in Southampton on Wednesday.

Australia opener Usman Khawaja was cleared of serious injury after taking a nasty blow to the head and being forced to retire hurt from a World Cup warmup against West Indies in Southampton on Wednesday. Khawaja underwent scans on his jaw after being struck by an Andre Russell bouncer in the second over of Australia's innings and escorted from the Rose Bowl's Nursery Ground. Australia went on to win the match by seven wickets. "It was very scary. It copped him on the side of the cheekbone, I think. The main thing is he is okay and can bounce back pretty quickly", Australia batsman Shaun Marsh, who scored 55 not out batting at number five, told reporters. "Obviously (he was) a bit shaken, as you are when you get hit on the head, but Uzzy's a tough cookie and he'll be ready to go", Marsh added. Marsh and returning former captain Steve Smith put on 109 for the third wicket as Australia chased down West Indies' tally of 229 inside 39 overs. Smith hit seven fours and two sixes in his 76 and Marsh said it was good to see him and former vice-captain David Warner, who scored 12, back in the groove after the end of their one-year bans for the Newlands ball-tampering scandal. "(Smith) has just come back and just done what he usually does and scored runs," Marsh said. "It's just fantastic to have them both back in the team. They are both really valuable players for us," Marsh added. With Smith and Warner back, Marsh is not certain of a place in the side for the World Cup opener against Afghanistan in Bristol on June 1 but he thought his versatility might work in his favour. "I think I'm nice and flexible. I've batted from one to six over my career so I'll just enjoy the last two warmup matches and we'll see," Marsh said. The defending champions' next warmup is against World Cup hosts England, who top the world rankings, at the main Rose Bowl ground on Saturday. "I think it's going to be a great challenge and we'll see where we're at," Marsh concluded.

Australia's Usman Khawaja given all clear after head knock in World Cup warm-up game against Windies

Time away from the game has made him "hungrier than ever before" says <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-can-end-world-cup-agony-dale-steyn-211431&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiO6tHGu7HiAhUJQI8KHStPCfM4FBAWMAJ6BAgPEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XL83XwwSpJxkWy0BERlt3">South Africa</a> batsman Hashim Amla, gearing up for his third World Cup.

With more than 18,000 international runs under his belt, Amla was once a batting mainstay for Proteas but <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=2ahUKEwiO6tHGu7HiAhUJQI8KHStPCfM4FBAWMAR6BAgDEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw13mMusYMc70r1VsNMD6xuP">lost his place in the team due to a dip in form</a>.

He missed the ODI series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, with Aiden Markram taking his place as an opener alongside vice-captain Quinton de Kock in the series.

Amla was also missing in action at the IPL and he says the long break helped him to sharpen his game.

"Things happen that you don't anticipate and I did not anticipate how things have gone recently. But I am a firm believer that when something happens, there is some good in it. I have had time away and now I am really looking back to wearing the green and gold again," Amla was quoted as saying by the ICC.

"I am hungrier than ever before, there is no doubt about that. I have been blessed to have this shirt for a while but the time off has made me want to come back stronger.

"This is my third (World Cup) so I know what it is all about. I have a strong record in England and I have always enjoyed coming here", Amla said.

The 36-year-old has already featured in two World Cups for South Africa but New Zealand ended their run in both the editions -- quarter-finals in 2011 and semi-finals four years ago.

South Africa will open their campaign against World No. 1 England, a side tipped to win the World Cup, and Amla believes the underdog status will suit South Africa.

"It is the best first game we could have asked for. We have played England recently and had some success against them, I have done well against them too," he said.

"This year, you don't see the same big names and that is why the focus is not on us but that has some good in it. There has not been much chat about us winning in comparison to the past but I don't think that played a part in how we performed.

"At the end of the day, we always gave our best and played to win. The fact there has not been a lot of chat at this World Cup means there is less expectation but in the team, we think we can do well", Amla said.

Time away from the game has made him "hungrier than ever before" says South Africa batsman Hashim Amla, gearing up for his third World Cup. With more than 18,000 international runs under his belt, Amla was once a batting mainstay for Proteas but lost his place in the team due to a dip in form.

Time away from the game has made him "hungrier than ever before" says South Africa batsman Hashim Amla, gearing up for his third World Cup. With more than 18,000 international runs under his belt, Amla was once a batting mainstay for Proteas but lost his place in the team due to a dip in form. He missed the ODI series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, with Aiden Markram taking his place as an opener alongside vice-captain Quinton de Kock in the series. Amla was also missing in action at the IPL and he says the long break helped him to sharpen his game. "Things happen that you don't anticipate and I did not anticipate how things have gone recently. But I am a firm believer that when something happens, there is some good in it. I have had time away and now I am really looking back to wearing the green and gold again," Amla was quoted as saying by the ICC. "I am hungrier than ever before, there is no doubt about that. I have been blessed to have this shirt for a while but the time off has made me want to come back stronger. "This is my third (World Cup) so I know what it is all about. I have a strong record in England and I have always enjoyed coming here", Amla said. The 36-year-old has already featured in two World Cups for South Africa but New Zealand ended their run in both the editions -- quarter-finals in 2011 and semi-finals four years ago. South Africa will open their campaign against World No. 1 England, a side tipped to win the World Cup, and Amla believes the underdog status will suit South Africa. "It is the best first game we could have asked for. We have played England recently and had some success against them, I have done well against them too," he said. "This year, you don't see the same big names and that is why the focus is not on us but that has some good in it. There has not been much chat about us winning in comparison to the past but I don't think that played a part in how we performed. "At the end of the day, we always gave our best and played to win. The fact there has not been a lot of chat at this World Cup means there is less expectation but in the team, we think we can do well", Amla said.

South Africa's Hashim Amla is 'hungrier than ever before' ahead of World Cup 2019

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of his top three fast <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-to-spinner-rashid-khan-bowlers-who-can-push-batsmen-on-the-backfoot-in-cricket-world-cup-2019-219355&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwizzs3-vbHiAhV-6XMBHb4jD7MQFjAEegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2SbitlpIg5j7qmdwHDUlUv">bowlers for the upcoming World Cup</a>, beginning in the United Kingdom on May 30.

"What a wonderful bowler," said Lee of <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=2ahUKEwizzs3-vbHiAhV-6XMBHb4jD7MQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3qVoWUTWltY-dxmJYK7gIh">Bumrah, who has taken 85 wickets in 49 one-day internationals</a>.

"He's got a good record, wonderful yorker, good pace," added the Australian, a member of the 2003 World Cup winning side.

Besides Bumrah, Lee picked compatriots Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummings as the other two fast bowlers who will do well at the quadrennial tournament.

"You'd have to stick with Mitchell Starc," Lee told cricket.Com.Au.

Starc, a left-armer, had suffered a chest injury last February and is nearing peak fitness.

"He's still got that quality. When that pace is up he's hard to go past," Lee said of Starc, who was the 2015 Player of the Tournament for his 22 wickets at 10 runs apiece.

Heaping praise on Cummins, Lee said, "Pat Cummins -&nbsp;pace, accuracy, variations. He can do it all."

In six matches this year, Cummins has taken 17 wickets at just 14.29.&nbsp;

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of his top three fast bowlers for the upcoming World Cup, beginning in the United Kingdom on May 30.

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of his top three fast bowlers for the upcoming World Cup, beginning in the United Kingdom on May 30. "What a wonderful bowler," said Lee of Bumrah, who has taken 85 wickets in 49 one-day internationals. "He's got a good record, wonderful yorker, good pace," added the Australian, a member of the 2003 World Cup winning side. Besides Bumrah, Lee picked compatriots Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummings as the other two fast bowlers who will do well at the quadrennial tournament. "You'd have to stick with Mitchell Starc," Lee told cricket.Com.Au. Starc, a left-armer, had suffered a chest injury last February and is nearing peak fitness. "He's still got that quality. When that pace is up he's hard to go past," Lee said of Starc, who was the 2015 Player of the Tournament for his 22 wickets at 10 runs apiece. Heaping praise on Cummins, Lee said, "Pat Cummins - pace, accuracy, variations. He can do it all." In six matches this year, Cummins has taken 17 wickets at just 14.29.

India's Jasprit Bumrah among Brett Lee's top three World Cup quicks

Former skipper <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-pontings-presence-australian-players-are-like-8-year-old-girls-around-justin-bieber-aaron-finch-220146&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwisltq6qrHiAhXP73MBHUEnAMAQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1UAs8xmaiFGkHjh-jHuKsG">Ricky Ponting</a> believes defending champion Australia's ability to bowl and play spin will define their success in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30.

"The thing that will define <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=2ahUKEwisltq6qrHiAhXP73MBHUEnAMAQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw00WvCT5dwEo-p1MyjWa2J_">Australia's success in the World Cup</a> is, one, how well they bowl spin and, two, how well they play it," Ponting was quoted as saying by the 'Sydney Morning Herald'.

"That's been their Achilles' heel the last 12 or 18 months. With (Adam)&nbsp;Zampa bowling well now, Nathan Lyon's obviously in the squad and Glenn Maxwell's done a good job with the ball whenever he's played", Ponting said.

Ponting said there were concerns about the middle-order's ability to play spin a year ago but the return of David Warner and Steve Smith has strengthened the team.

"And I think some of our middle order are probably slightly better players of spin now than they were 12 or 18 months ago," said the 44-year-old, who won Australia the 1999 World Cup as a player, before guiding the team to successive titles in the next two editions as a captain.

"With Warner there now and Steve Smith coming back in, the middle order looks a lot better against spin bowling than it probably was", he added.

Warner and Smith had served a 12-month ban for their respective roles in the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in March last year.

They returned to competitive cricket at the Indian Premier League with Warner amassing 692 runs in 12 matches and Smith scoring 319 runs in 12 matches and leading Rajasthan Royals to three wins in five matches.

"They're both playing really well. Steve Smith still thinks he's not probably 100 per cent fit just yet - but he's not far away. And Warner's been the dominant batsman in the IPL," Ponting said.

There are concerns that Smith and Warner will be targeted by the crowd during the World Cup with English cricketer Moeen Ali urging the spectators to treat them with respect.

"Those two coming in, obviously they're class players - they'll have their fair share of issues to deal with from the crowds and stuff when they get over there," he said.

"But they're big boys. They've been there and seen it all before. I'm sure they'll be fine", Ponting added.&nbsp;

Australia will begin their campaign against Afghanistan on June 1 at Bristol.&nbsp;

Former skipper Ricky Ponting believes defending champion Australia's ability to bowl and play spin will define their success in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30.

Former skipper Ricky Ponting believes defending champion Australia's ability to bowl and play spin will define their success in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30. "The thing that will define Australia's success in the World Cup is, one, how well they bowl spin and, two, how well they play it," Ponting was quoted as saying by the 'Sydney Morning Herald'. "That's been their Achilles' heel the last 12 or 18 months. With (Adam) Zampa bowling well now, Nathan Lyon's obviously in the squad and Glenn Maxwell's done a good job with the ball whenever he's played", Ponting said. Ponting said there were concerns about the middle-order's ability to play spin a year ago but the return of David Warner and Steve Smith has strengthened the team. "And I think some of our middle order are probably slightly better players of spin now than they were 12 or 18 months ago," said the 44-year-old, who won Australia the 1999 World Cup as a player, before guiding the team to successive titles in the next two editions as a captain. "With Warner there now and Steve Smith coming back in, the middle order looks a lot better against spin bowling than it probably was", he added. Warner and Smith had served a 12-month ban for their respective roles in the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in March last year. They returned to competitive cricket at the Indian Premier League with Warner amassing 692 runs in 12 matches and Smith scoring 319 runs in 12 matches and leading Rajasthan Royals to three wins in five matches. "They're both playing really well. Steve Smith still thinks he's not probably 100 per cent fit just yet - but he's not far away. And Warner's been the dominant batsman in the IPL," Ponting said. There are concerns that Smith and Warner will be targeted by the crowd during the World Cup with English cricketer Moeen Ali urging the spectators to treat them with respect. "Those two coming in, obviously they're class players - they'll have their fair share of issues to deal with from the crowds and stuff when they get over there," he said. "But they're big boys. They've been there and seen it all before. I'm sure they'll be fine", Ponting added. Australia will begin their campaign against Afghanistan on June 1 at Bristol.

Ricky Ponting: How Australia bowl and play spin will define their success in World Cup 2019

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat Kohli</a>, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294">Sachin Tendulkar</a>.

In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation.

"I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions.

Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation.

"I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said.

However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day.

"It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time.

What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls.

"The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman.

"When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups.

Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen.

What's the solution then? He responded,&nbsp;"I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers."

According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal.

The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England.

"Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs.

"Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes."

For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan.

"Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said.

"There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said.

What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience.

"There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar.

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar. In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation. "I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions. Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation. "I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said. However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day. "It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time. What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls. "The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman. "When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups. Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen. What's the solution then? He responded, "I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers." According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal. The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England. "Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs. "Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes." For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan. "Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said. "There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said. What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience. "There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.

Virat alone can't win World Cup, others will need to step up: Sachin Tendulkar 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#india-211481">Indian cricket team</a> captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup,&nbsp;which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Kohli said, "Handling pressure is the most important thing in the World Cup and not necessarily the conditions. All our bowlers are fresh, no one looks fatigued."

"I think the only expectation we have is to play really good cricket and that's been our focus," Kohli added.&nbsp;

"The team has been together for past four-five years and bowled together as unit. All players complement each other and can adjust accordingly," said Kohli on the Indian squad.&nbsp;

The skipper also reflected his thoughts on England's pitches.&nbsp;

"Our mantra is to be flexible in the last 10 overs, pitches are going to be flat but overcast conditions will also have to be taken into consideration. It will also depend on venue to venue, so you have to be prepared for that and be flexible," Kohli said.&nbsp;

On the other hand, coach Ravi Shastri said, "World Cup might be a stage but the stage is to be enjoyed, if we play to our potential then the Cup might be back here."

On the changed format of the World Cup, Shastri said, "Format is also challenging, the gap between team is also very close. It's a very strong competition. It will be fantastic. The plus side is you have nine games."

"It's a strong competition, even Bangladesh and Afghanistan are much stronger than in 2015," Shastri added.&nbsp;

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On MS Dhoni, Shastri said, "He has a massive role. There is no one better than him in this format especially in those little moments which can change the game. He will be a big player in this World Cup."

Indian will play two&nbsp;warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before&nbsp;starting their campaign against South Africa on June 6.&nbsp;

Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.&nbsp;

<img alt="Team Indian World Cup squad" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a623d9f-9a07-49c1-add9-b2b2f70210eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India%2011.jpg" />

The BCCI Selection Committee added KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar and it is expected that they might be considered for the number four spot.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked.&nbsp;

Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30. During the press conference, Kohli said, "Handling pressure is the most important thing in the World Cup and not necessarily the conditions. All our bowlers are fresh, no one looks fatigued." "I think the only expectation we have is to play really good cricket and that's been our focus," Kohli added. "The team has been together for past four-five years and bowled together as unit. All players complement each other and can adjust accordingly," said Kohli on the Indian squad. The skipper also reflected his thoughts on England's pitches. "Our mantra is to be flexible in the last 10 overs, pitches are going to be flat but overcast conditions will also have to be taken into consideration. It will also depend on venue to venue, so you have to be prepared for that and be flexible," Kohli said. On the other hand, coach Ravi Shastri said, "World Cup might be a stage but the stage is to be enjoyed, if we play to our potential then the Cup might be back here." On the changed format of the World Cup, Shastri said, "Format is also challenging, the gap between team is also very close. It's a very strong competition. It will be fantastic. The plus side is you have nine games." "It's a strong competition, even Bangladesh and Afghanistan are much stronger than in 2015," Shastri added. × On MS Dhoni, Shastri said, "He has a massive role. There is no one better than him in this format especially in those little moments which can change the game. He will be a big player in this World Cup." Indian will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their campaign against South Africa on June 6. Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow. The BCCI Selection Committee added KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar and it is expected that they might be considered for the number four spot. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked. Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.

Virat Kohli: No fatigue due to IPL, World Cup conditions not a challenge

Throwback to ICC Cricket World Cup 2015: Starc emerges as Australia rules

Australia wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey stated that his team will focus on playing on their strengths rather than changing their game plans according to the oppositions in the upcoming International Cricket Council <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cricket+World+Cup">(ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup.</a>

"We have got a certain game style which has been successful in the last eight games, against quality opposition. For us, it is playing to our strengths. Every team in the World Cup has got their strengths. We aren't too much about opposition's game style. That's where we get distracted from what we are really good at," ICC quoted Carey, as saying.

"So for us, it's building on our success in the last few months. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-coach-darren-lehmann-expects-steve-smith-and-david-warner-to-shine-for-australia-in-world-cup-218723">David (Warner)&nbsp;and Steve (Smith)</a>&nbsp;comes back in. Quality players. Aaron Finch is in really good form. Our quicks (are in good form as well). We got a lot of exciting players," he added.

Other than having 'exciting players', Carey feels confident going in the premier tournament along with the former World Cup winners, Ricky Ponting (Assistant coach) and Brad Haddin (fielding coach), who will be in their support staff.

"We've got a lot of knowledge. Brad Haddin played in the last World Cup, we've got Ricky Ponting coming in, we've got a number of players who played in that last World Cup," he said.

"We've got lots of knowledge around the group of guys to access. When we get into it, that's when the high-pressure (experience)&nbsp;comes into it," Carey added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/humble-aussies-head-to-gallipoli-for-world-cup-inspiration-217745">Australia </a>will face Afghanistan in their first World Cup 2019 clash on June 1.

Australia wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey stated that his team will focus on playing on their strengths rather than changing their game plans according to the oppositions in the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup.

Australia wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey stated that his team will focus on playing on their strengths rather than changing their game plans according to the oppositions in the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup. "We have got a certain game style which has been successful in the last eight games, against quality opposition. For us, it is playing to our strengths. Every team in the World Cup has got their strengths. We aren't too much about opposition's game style. That's where we get distracted from what we are really good at," ICC quoted Carey, as saying. "So for us, it's building on our success in the last few months. David (Warner) and Steve (Smith) comes back in. Quality players. Aaron Finch is in really good form. Our quicks (are in good form as well). We got a lot of exciting players," he added. Other than having 'exciting players', Carey feels confident going in the premier tournament along with the former World Cup winners, Ricky Ponting (Assistant coach) and Brad Haddin (fielding coach), who will be in their support staff. "We've got a lot of knowledge. Brad Haddin played in the last World Cup, we've got Ricky Ponting coming in, we've got a number of players who played in that last World Cup," he said. "We've got lots of knowledge around the group of guys to access. When we get into it, that's when the high-pressure (experience) comes into it," Carey added. Australia will face Afghanistan in their first World Cup 2019 clash on June 1.

We will play on our strengths in World Cup, says Australia's wicket-keeper Alex Carey

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar was recently named in the fifteen-member World Cup squad and the player is likely to bat at number four position for the team.

Shankar believes how he prepares will be the key factor going into the tournament.

At the time of announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad said that Shankar is being viewed as a number four batsman.

Ambati Rayudu was seen as a potential number four batsman, but Shankar was given a nod ahead of him in the final squad due to his three-dimensional abilities.

"There's a difference between batting at number four position and batting in the lower order. How I prepare myself will the real challenge for me. I need to be in good shape, the most important thing will be how I play according to the situation. I should be equipped to play in any condition," Shankar told ANI.

"Number four slot, there have many been speculations about that slot. It is really important for me to keep things simple. Other things are not in my control, I should try to control what I can control," he added.

Shankar will be playing for the first time in the World Cup.

The player said being part of the World Cup-bound team is really special as the tournament happens once every four years.

"Everyone's dream is to first play for the country. Whenever you step in, you are wearing the Indian jersey and it is very special. The World Cup experience is all the more special as it happens once in four years and being named in the fifteen-member Indian squad, I am very happy about it," Shankar said.

Shankar who has been bogged down by injuries in the past said he has learnt a lot from those hiccups and he has come back stronger.

"It is a very good journey, to be honest. The most important thing is that I had many injuries in the past and I missed a lot of cricket. But these injuries taught me a lot of things, how I should focus when I was in the rehab and lot of many other things," Shankar said.

The 28-year-old Shankar played for the Hyderabad in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL).

The player said he plays every match with the same intensity and looks to take something out from the match.

"So wherever I play, I try to play with the same intensity. Every game I play, I try to make sure I get something out of that match. So as a cricketer I feel, you have to move forward and keep believing in your ability," Shankar said.

Shankar believes that it is his duty to learn from the senior players in the team as they have more experience of playing in every type of situations.

"Someone like him (MS Dhoni)&nbsp;has done a lot for the country, He has won many matches for the team. It is important for me to learn many things from him. Everyone in our team has achieved a lot of things and I should learn from everyone. Mahi bhai, has played in every type of situations, so it's my duty to learn from him," Shankar said.

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar was recently named in the fifteen-member World Cup squad and the player is likely to bat at number four position for the team. Shankar believes how he prepares will be the key factor going into the tournament.

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar was recently named in the fifteen-member World Cup squad and the player is likely to bat at number four position for the team. Shankar believes how he prepares will be the key factor going into the tournament. At the time of announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad said that Shankar is being viewed as a number four batsman. Ambati Rayudu was seen as a potential number four batsman, but Shankar was given a nod ahead of him in the final squad due to his three-dimensional abilities. "There's a difference between batting at number four position and batting in the lower order. How I prepare myself will the real challenge for me. I need to be in good shape, the most important thing will be how I play according to the situation. I should be equipped to play in any condition," Shankar told ANI. "Number four slot, there have many been speculations about that slot. It is really important for me to keep things simple. Other things are not in my control, I should try to control what I can control," he added. Shankar will be playing for the first time in the World Cup. The player said being part of the World Cup-bound team is really special as the tournament happens once every four years. "Everyone's dream is to first play for the country. Whenever you step in, you are wearing the Indian jersey and it is very special. The World Cup experience is all the more special as it happens once in four years and being named in the fifteen-member Indian squad, I am very happy about it," Shankar said. Shankar who has been bogged down by injuries in the past said he has learnt a lot from those hiccups and he has come back stronger. "It is a very good journey, to be honest. The most important thing is that I had many injuries in the past and I missed a lot of cricket. But these injuries taught me a lot of things, how I should focus when I was in the rehab and lot of many other things," Shankar said. The 28-year-old Shankar played for the Hyderabad in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL). The player said he plays every match with the same intensity and looks to take something out from the match. "So wherever I play, I try to play with the same intensity. Every game I play, I try to make sure I get something out of that match. So as a cricketer I feel, you have to move forward and keep believing in your ability," Shankar said. Shankar believes that it is his duty to learn from the senior players in the team as they have more experience of playing in every type of situations. "Someone like him (MS Dhoni) has done a lot for the country, He has won many matches for the team. It is important for me to learn many things from him. Everyone in our team has achieved a lot of things and I should learn from everyone. Mahi bhai, has played in every type of situations, so it's my duty to learn from him," Shankar said.

How I prepare myself for World Cup will be real challenge for me: Vijay Shankar

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday released the official song of the Men's World Cup - 'Stand By', which is sung by LORYN and Rudimental across all streaming platforms.&nbsp;

The upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is the 12th cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

'Stand By' is a collaboration between new artist LORYN and one of the UK's most successful and influential acts Rudimental. It&nbsp;will be played in ground and city events across the tournament when the showpiece event begins on May 30.&nbsp;

A total of 10 countries will participate, having one dream in common, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world.&nbsp;

The ICC Men's World Cup is one of the world's biggest global sporting events, attracting around one million sporting fans soaking up the action in the UK and a further billion fans watching worldwide across the 48-match event.&nbsp;

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'Stand By' will provide a common voice for fans when they show their passion for their respective teams during the month and a half long tournament which culminates on July 14.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday released the official song of the Men's World Cup - 'Stand By', which is sung by LORYN and Rudimental across all streaming platforms.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday released the official song of the Men's World Cup - 'Stand By', which is sung by LORYN and Rudimental across all streaming platforms. The upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14, is the 12th cricket World Cup. 'Stand By' is a collaboration between new artist LORYN and one of the UK's most successful and influential acts Rudimental. It will be played in ground and city events across the tournament when the showpiece event begins on May 30. A total of 10 countries will participate, having one dream in common, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world. The ICC Men's World Cup is one of the world's biggest global sporting events, attracting around one million sporting fans soaking up the action in the UK and a further billion fans watching worldwide across the 48-match event. × 'Stand By' will provide a common voice for fans when they show their passion for their respective teams during the month and a half long tournament which culminates on July 14.

'Stand By': Anthem song for the ICC World Cup 2019 released

India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is "excited" to play in his first <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/throwback-to-icc-cricket-world-cup-2011-india-becomes-first-team-to-win-final-on-home-soil-219190&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq0eCUs6LiAhUM73MBHYIGDS84FBAWMAB6BAgFEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_ZuRr1JffyOZTGhLpjeEQ">ICC Men's Cricket World Cup</a>, starting May 30 in the England and Wales.

"Really excited, it will be my first World Cup. Everyone wants to be part of the World Cup to play for the country," the 28-year-old told ANI.

On being asked what he thinks about the wicket, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-to-spinner-rashid-khan-bowlers-who-can-push-batsmen-on-the-backfoot-in-cricket-world-cup-2019-219355">Chahal</a> said, "Last year when we played in England, the wicket was slow so we have prepared accordingly but can only decide once we reach there.''

The middle-order, expect the presence of MS Dhoni, has worried the nation for quite some time now.

Reflecting on the same, the leg-spinner said, "One should support and back all the 15 players. Consider the team is strong."

India will take on New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and 28 in the warm-up matches before opening its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5 at the Hampshire Bowl, Southampton.

India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is "excited" to play in his first ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, starting May 30 in the England and Wales. "Really excited, it will be my first World Cup.

India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is "excited" to play in his first ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, starting May 30 in the England and Wales. "Really excited, it will be my first World Cup. Everyone wants to be part of the World Cup to play for the country," the 28-year-old told ANI. On being asked what he thinks about the wicket, Chahal said, "Last year when we played in England, the wicket was slow so we have prepared accordingly but can only decide once we reach there.'' The middle-order, expect the presence of MS Dhoni, has worried the nation for quite some time now. Reflecting on the same, the leg-spinner said, "One should support and back all the 15 players. Consider the team is strong." India will take on New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and 28 in the warm-up matches before opening its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5 at the Hampshire Bowl, Southampton.

Excited for my first World Cup, says Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal

From pacer Jasprit Bumrah to spinner Rashid Khan, bowlers who can push batsmen on the backfoot in Cricket World Cup 2019

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-englands-final-world-cup-squad-will-shape-up-218006&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj2vqtsp_iAhXHiHAKHUVrCeYQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ajoxa9pe4oQKuo3iS-9b1">England </a>captain Eoin Morgan will miss Friday's fourth one-day international against Pakistan in Nottingham after being suspended for a slow over-rate offence, the International Cricket Council said on Wednesday.

Match referee Richie Richardson imposed the suspension on Morgan after England were ruled to be two overs short after time allowances during their <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-chase-down-358-with-5-overs-remaining-to-beat-pakistan-in-2nd-odi-218880&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwit_7XPsp_iAhWNfSsKHcoRAA4QFjAGegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2ljbD3q_EZJsuETcgbMRpT">victory over Pakistan in the third ODI</a> in Bristol on Tuesday.

The ICC said it was Morgan's second "minor over-rate offence" after being previously found guilty during the Barbados ODI against the West Indies in February.

Morgan was also fined 40% of his match fee, while the players were hit with a 20% fine.

"In accordance with Article 2.22.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10% of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double that amount," the ICC said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jonny-bairstow-picks-world-cup-glory-over-ashes-win-217217&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj2vqtsp_iAhXHiHAKHUVrCeYQFjAGegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3D_TUWZ0bz7jMuOSdn-Jj_">Wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow</a> has been reprimanded by the ICC for hitting the stumps with his bat after his dismissal for 128 in the 29th over of the same match.

ICC confirmed that one demerit point was added to the disciplinary record of Bairstow, his first since the introduction of the revised code in Sept. 2016.

England captain Eoin Morgan will miss Friday's fourth one-day international against Pakistan in Nottingham after being suspended for a slow over-rate offence, the International Cricket Council said on Wednesday.

England captain Eoin Morgan will miss Friday's fourth one-day international against Pakistan in Nottingham after being suspended for a slow over-rate offence, the International Cricket Council said on Wednesday. Match referee Richie Richardson imposed the suspension on Morgan after England were ruled to be two overs short after time allowances during their victory over Pakistan in the third ODI in Bristol on Tuesday. The ICC said it was Morgan's second "minor over-rate offence" after being previously found guilty during the Barbados ODI against the West Indies in February. Morgan was also fined 40% of his match fee, while the players were hit with a 20% fine. "In accordance with Article 2.22.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10% of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double that amount," the ICC said in a statement. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow has been reprimanded by the ICC for hitting the stumps with his bat after his dismissal for 128 in the 29th over of the same match. ICC confirmed that one demerit point was added to the disciplinary record of Bairstow, his first since the introduction of the revised code in Sept. 2016.

England captain Eoin Morgan suspended for slow over-rate, Jonny Bairstow reprimanded

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhirs-comments-on-indias-best-wicketkeeper-upset-ms-dhoni-fans-206683&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwily-iDnaDiAhWLsI8KHZ-SDIsQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1NQVcv3ve3mMO2pX37iwFj">Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir</a> on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer.

"I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar need more support. You may argue that India has two fast bowling all-rounders in Hardik (Pandya) and Vijay Shankar but I am not convinced," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/gautam-gambhir-voter-id-case-atishi-to-record-her-statement-matter-fixed-for-may-31-218487&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwily-iDnaDiAhWLsI8KHZ-SDIsQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1bxjJ8EH-Gmi0YzgkVoJ0F">Gambhir</a>, as saying.

Bumrah has been the key weapon in the bowling scheme of things for India and Gambhir reckons the bowler will once again be the trump card for India and his form will be crucial for its chances in the World Cup.

"The wickets are going to be very flat and it's going to be hot. So how Jasprit Bumrah bowls will decide where India reaches because it's going to be a high-scoring World Cup," Gambhir said.

The selectors did not pick Ambati Rayudu in the fifteen-member team.

Chief selector MSK Prasad at the time of announcing the squad had said Vijay Shankar will most likely play at number four position, with KL Rahul being the backup option for that spot.

However, Gambhir is of the view that Rahul is the best-suited batsman to play at number four position, considering his technique.

"I feel Rahul is best suited for No.4 spot because he has got the technique, he has got the ability to win you games. I know that is not the position you would have preferred, but I have always believed one thing you only put yourself in the playing XI ultimately it is the team management who decide," Gambhir said.

Gambhir played a key role in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-among-favourites-to-win-world-cup-says-kapil-dev-217038&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiuyKO-naDiAhXEfX0KHRpnA38QFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jZ_LnIo30U85PZFp09nVS">India's World Cup</a> triumph in 2011 as he scored a knock of 97 runs in the finals against Sri Lanka.

The player said that Australia has one of the best bowling attacks going into the World Cup this time around.

The left-handed batsman also praised the tournament's format this time as the World Cup will be played between the top ten teams.

The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with every team taking on each other before the semi-finals stage.

"With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith coming back, they're probably the side to beat. In any ICC tournament, if you beat Australia, you're right up there because they know how to play big matches," Gambhir said.

"This will be a well-contested tournament as all the teams play each other. This format will give us the real world champion and I think ICC should stick to this format for all future World Cups," he added.

India will take&nbsp;on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup.

The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;India will open its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

India's&nbsp;fifteen-member squad for World Cup:

Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah , Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer. "I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer. "I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar need more support. You may argue that India has two fast bowling all-rounders in Hardik (Pandya) and Vijay Shankar but I am not convinced," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Gambhir, as saying. Bumrah has been the key weapon in the bowling scheme of things for India and Gambhir reckons the bowler will once again be the trump card for India and his form will be crucial for its chances in the World Cup. "The wickets are going to be very flat and it's going to be hot. So how Jasprit Bumrah bowls will decide where India reaches because it's going to be a high-scoring World Cup," Gambhir said. The selectors did not pick Ambati Rayudu in the fifteen-member team. Chief selector MSK Prasad at the time of announcing the squad had said Vijay Shankar will most likely play at number four position, with KL Rahul being the backup option for that spot. However, Gambhir is of the view that Rahul is the best-suited batsman to play at number four position, considering his technique. "I feel Rahul is best suited for No.4 spot because he has got the technique, he has got the ability to win you games. I know that is not the position you would have preferred, but I have always believed one thing you only put yourself in the playing XI ultimately it is the team management who decide," Gambhir said. Gambhir played a key role in India's World Cup triumph in 2011 as he scored a knock of 97 runs in the finals against Sri Lanka. The player said that Australia has one of the best bowling attacks going into the World Cup this time around. The left-handed batsman also praised the tournament's format this time as the World Cup will be played between the top ten teams. The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with every team taking on each other before the semi-finals stage. "With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith coming back, they're probably the side to beat. In any ICC tournament, if you beat Australia, you're right up there because they know how to play big matches," Gambhir said. "This will be a well-contested tournament as all the teams play each other. This format will give us the real world champion and I think ICC should stick to this format for all future World Cups," he added. India will take on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup. The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. India's fifteen-member squad for World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah , Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

Indian World Cup team lacks one more quality fast bowler: Gautam Gambhir

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

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-gayle-named-vice-captain-of-windies-world-cup-team-216601&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyie6uz5_iAhVVfH0KHRGuC5kQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0CKxZ6zWHfoV6-qzckdeWi">Chris Gayle</a>, who heads into his fifth and final World Cup, would love a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-chris-gayle-announces-retirement-from-odi-cricket-197975&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyie6uz5_iAhVVfH0KHRGuC5kQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw380UlK_wfv1pJlvKgfWDAm">fairy tale finish</a> and he expects the youngsters to win it for him.

For someone who made his West Indies debut in 1999, Gayle said he never expected himself to have such a long career.

He has played 103 Tests, 289 ODIs and bossing T20 leagues around the world

"Never really considered thinking about it but time does fly quickly. I could never dream of playing so many World Cups but it has happened. It shows consistency in the career. That keeps you going and earn a lot of praise'', Gayle said.

"Hard work in the last couple of has years paid off. People want to see you more and you are trying to deliver as much as possible", he added.

Gayle is also someone who has seen the lowest point of West Indies cricket and his stand-offs with the region's governing body are well-documented.

But the recent Test series win against England at home has raised hopes of a long-awaited revival.

Gayle said, "We have seen changes (in cricket board) in the last couple of months. Hopefully the new team gets it right, gets the structure in place. Cricket is the most important thing for the Caribbean. Hope they take the game to where it is supposed to be.''

"It will take time of course. Lot of things need to be rebuilt. On the field, we had a good series against England, now the World Cup is coming up and that is another opportunity for us to turn things around," added&nbsp;Gayle.

The Jamaican goes into the World Cup in menacing form, having scored 490 runs in the just concluded IPL at 40.83.

"It is a funny game you know. When the World Cup comes, hopefully, the runs would flow. I have a lot of experience so I know what it is like. I am just happy with the way I am batting right now and hope to carry on," Gayle told PTI in an interview.

He may seem superhuman while hitting those massive sixes (he hit 39 of them in the four ODIs against England and 34 in the IPL) but there is a method to that madness.&nbsp;

Age does catch up, he said, but "if you actually think you can do it, the body will react accordingly".

Chris Gayle, who heads into his fifth and final World Cup, would love a fairy tale finish and he expects the youngsters to win it for him. For someone who made his West Indies debut in 1999, Gayle said he never expected himself to have such a long career.

Chris Gayle, who heads into his fifth and final World Cup, would love a fairy tale finish and he expects the youngsters to win it for him. For someone who made his West Indies debut in 1999, Gayle said he never expected himself to have such a long career. He has played 103 Tests, 289 ODIs and bossing T20 leagues around the world "Never really considered thinking about it but time does fly quickly. I could never dream of playing so many World Cups but it has happened. It shows consistency in the career. That keeps you going and earn a lot of praise'', Gayle said. "Hard work in the last couple of has years paid off. People want to see you more and you are trying to deliver as much as possible", he added. Gayle is also someone who has seen the lowest point of West Indies cricket and his stand-offs with the region's governing body are well-documented. But the recent Test series win against England at home has raised hopes of a long-awaited revival. Gayle said, "We have seen changes (in cricket board) in the last couple of months. Hopefully the new team gets it right, gets the structure in place. Cricket is the most important thing for the Caribbean. Hope they take the game to where it is supposed to be.'' "It will take time of course. Lot of things need to be rebuilt. On the field, we had a good series against England, now the World Cup is coming up and that is another opportunity for us to turn things around," added Gayle. The Jamaican goes into the World Cup in menacing form, having scored 490 runs in the just concluded IPL at 40.83. "It is a funny game you know. When the World Cup comes, hopefully, the runs would flow. I have a lot of experience so I know what it is like. I am just happy with the way I am batting right now and hope to carry on," Gayle told PTI in an interview. He may seem superhuman while hitting those massive sixes (he hit 39 of them in the four ODIs against England and 34 in the IPL) but there is a method to that madness. Age does catch up, he said, but "if you actually think you can do it, the body will react accordingly".

World Cup an opportunity for us to turn things around, says Windies veteran Chris Gayle

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia and England as the four semifinalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable.&nbsp;

England has been a 'lucky' venue for Pakistan, who had won the 2017 Champions Trophy beating India and had also bagged their maiden World Twenty20 title in 2009.

"Pakistan's record in world tournaments in England is remarkable. They won the Champions Trophy two years ago, they won the 2009 World T20 in England", the former captain added.

He also cited the recent example of Pakistan's second ODI against England, in which they almost chased down a mammoth 374 before going down by only 12 runs.

"Pakistan always play well in England. You see the last game in England. England got 374 and Pakistan just lost by 12 runs. They also beat England in England in Test matches there because of their bowling lineup", Ganguly said.

Ganguly, however, was quick to add that Virat Kohli's men should not be wary of Pakistan and they would prove to be strong contenders.&nbsp;

"I don't believe in records. Both of them will have to play well on that particular day. India will be a very good side. They will be very hard to beat. A team which has the likes of Kohli, Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan can't be weak", Ganguly said.

Asked to compare this team with that of his team of 2003 that lost to Australia in the final, Ganguly said, "Both the teams are of different generations. We played the final in 2003. I hope they play the final and win it.''

"Indian cricket is so strong. And we have been strong for the last 25-30 years. Every world competition that we play, we will have a chance. This team has as much chance as we had in 2003", he added.&nbsp;

Starting as one of the favourites, India would be under tremendous pressure but Ganguly felt it would bring out the best from Kohli and Co.

"So it's good that India is under pressure, every other team in the World Cup will be under pressure. You don't want to turn up like a Nepal or an Ireland where the entire world thinks that you're not going to win'', the former captain said.

"You rather turn up like an India or an Australia or an England where everybody says this team is going to win the World Cup. So Virat, probably being the best player of the world at the moment, is as much under pressure as anybody else and that will be good for him because he will turn up, work hard, he will be pumped and get India going", Ganguly added.&nbsp;

Ganguly said it would be an interesting World Cup as all 10 teams will play each other before the best four qualify for the knockouts.&nbsp;

"This team has as much as an opportunity. It's a great World Cup because all 10 teams play against each other and the best four qualify. There are strong teams and you realise England, Pakistan, West Indies all can win'', Ganguly said.

"So it's good that India is under pressure because it will help them perform and it's going to be exciting 55 days of cricket," Ganguly added. 
&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia and England as the four semifinalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable.

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia and England as the four semifinalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable. England has been a 'lucky' venue for Pakistan, who had won the 2017 Champions Trophy beating India and had also bagged their maiden World Twenty20 title in 2009. "Pakistan's record in world tournaments in England is remarkable. They won the Champions Trophy two years ago, they won the 2009 World T20 in England", the former captain added. He also cited the recent example of Pakistan's second ODI against England, in which they almost chased down a mammoth 374 before going down by only 12 runs. "Pakistan always play well in England. You see the last game in England. England got 374 and Pakistan just lost by 12 runs. They also beat England in England in Test matches there because of their bowling lineup", Ganguly said. Ganguly, however, was quick to add that Virat Kohli's men should not be wary of Pakistan and they would prove to be strong contenders. "I don't believe in records. Both of them will have to play well on that particular day. India will be a very good side. They will be very hard to beat. A team which has the likes of Kohli, Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan can't be weak", Ganguly said. Asked to compare this team with that of his team of 2003 that lost to Australia in the final, Ganguly said, "Both the teams are of different generations. We played the final in 2003. I hope they play the final and win it.'' "Indian cricket is so strong. And we have been strong for the last 25-30 years. Every world competition that we play, we will have a chance. This team has as much chance as we had in 2003", he added. Starting as one of the favourites, India would be under tremendous pressure but Ganguly felt it would bring out the best from Kohli and Co. "So it's good that India is under pressure, every other team in the World Cup will be under pressure. You don't want to turn up like a Nepal or an Ireland where the entire world thinks that you're not going to win'', the former captain said. "You rather turn up like an India or an Australia or an England where everybody says this team is going to win the World Cup. So Virat, probably being the best player of the world at the moment, is as much under pressure as anybody else and that will be good for him because he will turn up, work hard, he will be pumped and get India going", Ganguly added. Ganguly said it would be an interesting World Cup as all 10 teams will play each other before the best four qualify for the knockouts. "This team has as much as an opportunity. It's a great World Cup because all 10 teams play against each other and the best four qualify. There are strong teams and you realise England, Pakistan, West Indies all can win'', Ganguly said. "So it's good that India is under pressure because it will help them perform and it's going to be exciting 55 days of cricket," Ganguly added.

Ganguly picks Pakistan as favourites for World Cup, says England's a 'lucky' venue for them