Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes skipper Rohit Sharma's form is the only concern for the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India registered a thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament on Sunday to get off to a flying start.

The Men in Blue rode on a stellar knock from Virat Kohli and all-round heroics from Hardik Pandya to clinch the last-ball thriller against Pakistan. However, their batting woes were left exposed once again as the top-order failed to deliver in yet another high-pressure game.

Both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul got dismissed on 4 runs each highlighting India's concerns at the top. Gavaskar believes Rohit being out of touch now remains India's only concern going forward in the tournament as the Hitman has not managed to score runs at the consistency he is known for.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wont-be-surprised-if-hardik-pandya-becomes-indias-next-captain-says-pakistan-legend-waqar-younis-528294">I won't be surprised if Hardik Pandya becomes India's next captain, says Pakistan legend Waqar Younis</a>

"The only concern really has been that Rohit Sharma of late has not quite scored with the same capability we know him to. I think if he gets going it really makes people’s life really easy for people to follow," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today.

Rohit and Rahul once again fail to give India the start they needed in the tricky 160-run chase as a result of which the team found itself under massive pressure with 31/4 at one stage before Kohli and Pandya's rescue act. Gavaskar urged Rohit and Rahul to aim at giving a good platform at the top which can make life easy for the middle-order batters.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/marcus-stoinis-fiery-half-century-helps-australia-thrash-sri-lanka-by-7-wickets-in-t20-world-cup-2022-528285">Marcus Stoinis' fiery half-century helps Australia thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in T20 World Cup 2022</a>

"A good platform is what everyone looks at. You give a good platform, a good start and it makes that much easier for somebody coming down at four or five to start hitting the ball from the first ball," said Gavaskar.

"They don’t have to give themselves time to settle in, they don't have to give themselves time to steady the ship, like India had to do against Pakistan when they were four wickets down for 31. So, even if you get a slightly slower start, maybe get to about 40 after losing 1 wicket, that is a much better platform than 31/4," he added.

India will lock horns with Netherlands in their second Super 12 encounter on Thursday (October 27).

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes skipper Rohit Sharma's form is the only concern for the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India registered a thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament on Sunday to get off to a flying start.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes skipper Rohit Sharma's form is the only concern for the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India registered a thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament on Sunday to get off to a flying start. The Men in Blue rode on a stellar knock from Virat Kohli and all-round heroics from Hardik Pandya to clinch the last-ball thriller against Pakistan. However, their batting woes were left exposed once again as the top-order failed to deliver in yet another high-pressure game. Both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul got dismissed on 4 runs each highlighting India's concerns at the top. Gavaskar believes Rohit being out of touch now remains India's only concern going forward in the tournament as the Hitman has not managed to score runs at the consistency he is known for. Also Read: I won't be surprised if Hardik Pandya becomes India's next captain, says Pakistan legend Waqar Younis "The only concern really has been that Rohit Sharma of late has not quite scored with the same capability we know him to. I think if he gets going it really makes people’s life really easy for people to follow," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today. Rohit and Rahul once again fail to give India the start they needed in the tricky 160-run chase as a result of which the team found itself under massive pressure with 31/4 at one stage before Kohli and Pandya's rescue act. Gavaskar urged Rohit and Rahul to aim at giving a good platform at the top which can make life easy for the middle-order batters. Also Read: Marcus Stoinis' fiery half-century helps Australia thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in T20 World Cup 2022 "A good platform is what everyone looks at. You give a good platform, a good start and it makes that much easier for somebody coming down at four or five to start hitting the ball from the first ball," said Gavaskar. "They don’t have to give themselves time to settle in, they don't have to give themselves time to steady the ship, like India had to do against Pakistan when they were four wickets down for 31. So, even if you get a slightly slower start, maybe get to about 40 after losing 1 wicket, that is a much better platform than 31/4," he added. India will lock horns with Netherlands in their second Super 12 encounter on Thursday (October 27).

Rohit Sharma's form is the only concern for Team India in T20 World Cup, says Sunil Gavaskar

Marcus Stoinis' quickfire half-century helped Australia thrash Sri Lanka by seven wickets as the hosts recorded their first win in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Tuesday (October 25). Australia chased down the tricky&nbsp;target of 158 runs with as many as 21 balls to spare after Stoinis went berserk with the willow in Perth.

It was a sensational knock from the star all-rounder, who came out to bat at number five when Australia were 89/3 with Sri Lanka trying to take control of the game. However, he took little time to settle down and went after the Lankan bowlers from the word go to pull Australia back into the contest.

Stoinis slammed an unbeaten 59 off just 18 balls and completed his fifty off just 17 balls to record the fastest fifty by an Australian in T20Is. His half-century off 17 balls is also the second-fastest fifty overall in T20 World Cup history. His stellar knock was laced with six sixes and four fours as the Sri Lankan bowlers were taken to the cleaners in Perth.

Stoinis' blitzkrieg ensured Australia nailed down the target comfortably as the hosts bounced back from their shambolic defeat against New Zealand in the opener to bag their first points in the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-him-to-retire-shoaib-akhtar-after-virat-kohlis-marvellous-knock-sinks-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-528273">'I want him to retire': Shoaib Akhtar after Virat Kohli's marvellous knock sinks Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a> 
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It was absolute carnage in Perth as Stoinis went on a rampage against Sri Lanka en route to his quickfire 59.&nbsp;After taking down Wanindu Hasaranga in the 15th over with two sixes and a four against the spinner, Stoinis battered Sri Lanka's best spinner - Maheesh Theekshana in the next over.

The all-rounder smoked three sixes in the 16th over to get 20 runs off it before wrapping up the run-chase in the next over.&nbsp;

Australia initially struggled in the run-chase as they lost opener David Warner (11) early before Finch and Mitchell Marsh added 34 runs for the second wicket. While all three struggled to score quickly, it was Glenn Maxwell, who broke the shackles first with 23 off just 12 balls before Stoinis went berserk.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everyone-was-part-of-it-to-some-degree-tim-paine-makes-stunning-claim-on-australian-ball-tampering-scandal-528246">Everyone was part of it to some degree: Tim Paine makes stunning claim on Australian ball-tampering scandal</a>

Earlier, Australia produced a disciplined bowling effort to stop Sri Lanka at 157/6 in 20 overs. The Lankans rode on Charith Asalanka's 25-ball 38 and crucial knocks from opener Pathum Nissanka (40) and Dhananjaya de Silva (26) to post a fighting total on the board.

Australia will now look to continue their winning momentum when they lock horns with England on Friday (October 28) while Sri Lanka will hope to bag their first points in the tournament when they face New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash on Friday (October 29).

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Marcus Stoinis' quickfire half-century helped Australia thrash Sri Lanka by seven wickets as the hosts recorded their first win in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Tuesday (October 25).

Marcus Stoinis' quickfire half-century helped Australia thrash Sri Lanka by seven wickets as the hosts recorded their first win in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Tuesday (October 25). Australia chased down the tricky target of 158 runs with as many as 21 balls to spare after Stoinis went berserk with the willow in Perth. It was a sensational knock from the star all-rounder, who came out to bat at number five when Australia were 89/3 with Sri Lanka trying to take control of the game. However, he took little time to settle down and went after the Lankan bowlers from the word go to pull Australia back into the contest. Stoinis slammed an unbeaten 59 off just 18 balls and completed his fifty off just 17 balls to record the fastest fifty by an Australian in T20Is. His half-century off 17 balls is also the second-fastest fifty overall in T20 World Cup history. His stellar knock was laced with six sixes and four fours as the Sri Lankan bowlers were taken to the cleaners in Perth. Stoinis' blitzkrieg ensured Australia nailed down the target comfortably as the hosts bounced back from their shambolic defeat against New Zealand in the opener to bag their first points in the tournament. Also Read: 'I want him to retire': Shoaib Akhtar after Virat Kohli's marvellous knock sinks Pakistan in T20 World Cup View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × It was absolute carnage in Perth as Stoinis went on a rampage against Sri Lanka en route to his quickfire 59. After taking down Wanindu Hasaranga in the 15th over with two sixes and a four against the spinner, Stoinis battered Sri Lanka's best spinner - Maheesh Theekshana in the next over. The all-rounder smoked three sixes in the 16th over to get 20 runs off it before wrapping up the run-chase in the next over. Australia initially struggled in the run-chase as they lost opener David Warner (11) early before Finch and Mitchell Marsh added 34 runs for the second wicket. While all three struggled to score quickly, it was Glenn Maxwell, who broke the shackles first with 23 off just 12 balls before Stoinis went berserk. Also Read: Everyone was part of it to some degree: Tim Paine makes stunning claim on Australian ball-tampering scandal Earlier, Australia produced a disciplined bowling effort to stop Sri Lanka at 157/6 in 20 overs. The Lankans rode on Charith Asalanka's 25-ball 38 and crucial knocks from opener Pathum Nissanka (40) and Dhananjaya de Silva (26) to post a fighting total on the board. Australia will now look to continue their winning momentum when they lock horns with England on Friday (October 28) while Sri Lanka will hope to bag their first points in the tournament when they face New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash on Friday (October 29).

Marcus Stoinis' fiery half-century helps Australia thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in T20 World Cup 2022

Rain beat South Africa, depriving them of a victory in a World Cup match one more time. Set a target of 80 in nine overs by Zimbabwe, which was revised to 64 in seven overs after a brief rain interruption in their opening T20 World Cup match, South Africa were cruising at 51 for no loss in three overs, with opener Quinton de Kock going strong at an 18-ball unbeaten 47. Rain, then, turned out to be their real opponents on the day.

So, three decades after they were rained out of the 1992 ODI World Cup semifinals on readmission into international cricket, South Africa were again done in by the elements, this time in a group game though. It's been 30 years since the heartbreak in Sydney against England, but the rains continue to come in the way of the Proteas.

All-rounder Wesley Madhevere top-scored with an 18-ball unbeaten 35 and pulled Zimbabwe to 79 for 5 after a horror start in the rain-curtailed nine-over-a-side contest.

South Africa were 24 for no loss when the heavens opened up first, and soon after play resumed following the brief interruption, de Kock carted Richard Ngarava for four boundaries, including three on the trot. But the match was called off after it started to rain again.

Earlier, having got a life on 11, Madhevere capitalised on that to prop up Zimbabwe after they were tottering at 19 for four in the fourth over. The game was shortened after rain delayed the start by more than two hours at Bellerive Oval, which was drowned in water before the groundsmen got it match-ready.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-south-africa-penalised-5-runs-during-t20-world-cup-clash-against-zimbabwe-heres-why-528006">WATCH: South Africa penalised 5 runs during T20 World Cup clash against Zimbabwe; Here's why</a>

The powerplay was reduced to three overs per side with four bowlers allowed to bowl a maximum of two overs each. 
In a surprising move, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine opted to bat first despite the threat of rain looming over and the possibility of the Duckworth/Lewis method coming into the picture. The decision backfired as they lost the top four batters with hardly anything on the board.

Lungi Ngidi (2/20) was the wrecker-in-chief early on, having taken the wickets of Regis Chakabva (8) and Sikandar Raza for a second-ball duck. Ngidi had Chakabva caught behind right after the opener had hit the pacer for a six over deep midwicket.

This was after Wayne Parnell gave the Proteas their first breakthrough by removing Ervine (2). Possessing a potent four-pronged pace attack, the South Africans ran through their overs quickly, even as Zimbabwe's top order struggled to get its act right.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-to-set-new-world-record-for-most-wins-in-a-calendar-year-in-international-cricket-527992">India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket</a>

Promoted to number three, Sean Williams was run out after a horrendous call by Wesley Madhevere, as David Miller's throw at the striker's end found the batter short by a few yards in the fourth over. Zimbabwe got two boundaries in the next over to somewhat break the shackles.

Meanwhile, Ngidi dropped Madhevere in left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj's first and only over of the game. The batter was on 11, and he made full use of the life by smashing Kagiso Rabada for 17 runs in the innings' eighth over, including hitting the pacer for a six and two fours.

Rain beat South Africa, depriving them of a victory in a World Cup match one more time. Set a target of 80 in nine overs by Zimbabwe, which was revised to 64 in seven overs after a brief rain interruption in their opening T20 World Cup match, South Africa were cruising at 51 for no loss in three overs, with opener Quinton de Kock going strong at an 18-ball unbeaten 47.

Rain beat South Africa, depriving them of a victory in a World Cup match one more time. Set a target of 80 in nine overs by Zimbabwe, which was revised to 64 in seven overs after a brief rain interruption in their opening T20 World Cup match, South Africa were cruising at 51 for no loss in three overs, with opener Quinton de Kock going strong at an 18-ball unbeaten 47. Rain, then, turned out to be their real opponents on the day. So, three decades after they were rained out of the 1992 ODI World Cup semifinals on readmission into international cricket, South Africa were again done in by the elements, this time in a group game though. It's been 30 years since the heartbreak in Sydney against England, but the rains continue to come in the way of the Proteas. All-rounder Wesley Madhevere top-scored with an 18-ball unbeaten 35 and pulled Zimbabwe to 79 for 5 after a horror start in the rain-curtailed nine-over-a-side contest. South Africa were 24 for no loss when the heavens opened up first, and soon after play resumed following the brief interruption, de Kock carted Richard Ngarava for four boundaries, including three on the trot. But the match was called off after it started to rain again. Earlier, having got a life on 11, Madhevere capitalised on that to prop up Zimbabwe after they were tottering at 19 for four in the fourth over. The game was shortened after rain delayed the start by more than two hours at Bellerive Oval, which was drowned in water before the groundsmen got it match-ready. Also Read: WATCH: South Africa penalised 5 runs during T20 World Cup clash against Zimbabwe; Here's why The powerplay was reduced to three overs per side with four bowlers allowed to bowl a maximum of two overs each. In a surprising move, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine opted to bat first despite the threat of rain looming over and the possibility of the Duckworth/Lewis method coming into the picture. The decision backfired as they lost the top four batters with hardly anything on the board. Lungi Ngidi (2/20) was the wrecker-in-chief early on, having taken the wickets of Regis Chakabva (8) and Sikandar Raza for a second-ball duck. Ngidi had Chakabva caught behind right after the opener had hit the pacer for a six over deep midwicket. This was after Wayne Parnell gave the Proteas their first breakthrough by removing Ervine (2). Possessing a potent four-pronged pace attack, the South Africans ran through their overs quickly, even as Zimbabwe's top order struggled to get its act right. Also Read: India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket Promoted to number three, Sean Williams was run out after a horrendous call by Wesley Madhevere, as David Miller's throw at the striker's end found the batter short by a few yards in the fourth over. Zimbabwe got two boundaries in the next over to somewhat break the shackles. Meanwhile, Ngidi dropped Madhevere in left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj's first and only over of the game. The batter was on 11, and he made full use of the life by smashing Kagiso Rabada for 17 runs in the innings' eighth over, including hitting the pacer for a six and two fours.

Quinton de Kock's fiery knock goes in vain as rain denies South Africa victory against Zimbabwe in T20 WC

India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG.

India will be heading into the tournament as one of the favourites despite having underperformed in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. as they have tasted defeat twice in the last three meetings against Pakistan, including the T20 World Cup last year.

It is expected to be a cracker of a contest between the traditional rivals with Pakistan's quality pace attack going up against India's star-studded batting line-up. However, dark clouds hover over the game with the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne. Rain can pose a huge threat to the game with light showers expected to disrupt the play in the evening.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrap-asia-cup-dont-bring-politics-into-cricket-javed-miandad-slams-bcci-after-jay-shahs-comments-527557">Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments</a>

As per the data from the Australian Meteorological Department, the chances of rain are high in Melbourne on Sunday. However, the game is expected not to get washed out completely. The showers might get heavier as the day progresses but the fans and players will hope for a full-fledged contest.

Earlier on Saturday, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had spoken about his team's preparations for the much-awaited clash. Sharma said the team was better prepared and will be looking to get off to a winning start in the tournament. He also spoke about the chances of rain playing spoilsport and insisted India are prepared having played an 8-over game against Australia at home earlier this year.

"I woke up and saw dark clouds over the buildings and now it is sunny. We will be coming into the match thinking it is a 40-over game. Luckily we have played a 8-over game against Australia in India," Rohit said in the pre-match presser ahead of the Pakistan game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/confident-india-hoping-to-turn-tables-on-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-clash-527624">Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash</a>

While India are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for the entire tournament, Pakistan have been boosted by the return of their premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had terrorised the Indian top order last time the two teams met in the T20 World Cup.

India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG.

India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG. India will be heading into the tournament as one of the favourites despite having underperformed in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma & Co. as they have tasted defeat twice in the last three meetings against Pakistan, including the T20 World Cup last year. It is expected to be a cracker of a contest between the traditional rivals with Pakistan's quality pace attack going up against India's star-studded batting line-up. However, dark clouds hover over the game with the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne. Rain can pose a huge threat to the game with light showers expected to disrupt the play in the evening. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments As per the data from the Australian Meteorological Department, the chances of rain are high in Melbourne on Sunday. However, the game is expected not to get washed out completely. The showers might get heavier as the day progresses but the fans and players will hope for a full-fledged contest. Earlier on Saturday, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had spoken about his team's preparations for the much-awaited clash. Sharma said the team was better prepared and will be looking to get off to a winning start in the tournament. He also spoke about the chances of rain playing spoilsport and insisted India are prepared having played an 8-over game against Australia at home earlier this year. "I woke up and saw dark clouds over the buildings and now it is sunny. We will be coming into the match thinking it is a 40-over game. Luckily we have played a 8-over game against Australia in India," Rohit said in the pre-match presser ahead of the Pakistan game. Also Read: Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash While India are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for the entire tournament, Pakistan have been boosted by the return of their premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had terrorised the Indian top order last time the two teams met in the T20 World Cup.

India vs Pakistan, Melbourne weather forecast: Will rain play spoilsport in India's T20 World Cup 2022 opener?

Virat Kohli produced one of the best knocks of his career to help India beat Pakistan by 4 wickets in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Sunday (October 24). Kohli played a match-winning knock of an unbeaten 82 to help India chase down the target of 160 runs in a dramatic finish.

India were&nbsp;rocked early in their pursuit of the 160-run target after their excellent show with the ball as openers KL Rahul (4) and Rohit Sharma (4) were both sent back cheaply. The Men in Blue were reduced to 31/4 inside the first seven overs as Pakistan pacers dominated the proceedings.

However, Kohli decided to take on the onus upon himself as he combined with Hardik Pandya to pull India back into the contest. The duo added a crucial stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket and kept India in the hunt till the end. With 48 runs to get off the final three overs, Pandya struggled to play the big shots but Kohli shifted the gears seamlessly.

He looked in sublime control as the senior batter played some stunning shots to all parts of the ground. He smacked three fours against Shaheen Afridi before smashing two stunning sixes against Haris Rauf in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 runs required off the last over.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a>

Kohli then slammed a six off the fourth delivery off the final over from Mohammad Nawaz which turned out to be a no-ball as luck favoured the brave. India went on to clinch the thriller on the final ball with R Ashwin showing great temperament under pressure to play the winning shot.

Kohli was lauded by many for his heroic knock as he was the main architect of India's victory with his unbeaten 82 off 53 balls laced with six fours and four sixes. Several former Pakistan cricketers also heaped praise on the batting maestro, including the legendary Wasim Akram, who compared him to aliens.

Akram called Kohli an alien among humans after being left in awe following his match-winning heroics at the MCG. "Aliens do walk among us, he's one of the best I've seen in the recent or modern greats. He has been scoring for the last 15 years, and he has the best average while chasing," said the former Pakistan cricketer.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thrill-drama-and-emotions-relive-nerve-wracking-last-over-between-india-and-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-527829">Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a>

Kohli himself rated his knock against Pakistan as the best he has played in his career so far. The former India skipper looked in superb control throughout his knock despite having started slowly. He had managed only 11 runs off his first 20 balls but switched gears brilliantly to end up wth 71 runs off the next 33 deliveries.

After getting off to a flying start in the tournament, Kohli will be hoping to continue his fine form when India lock horns with Netherlands in their next Super 12 encounter on Thursday (October 27).

Virat Kohli produced one of the best knocks of his career to help India beat Pakistan by 4 wickets in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Sunday (October 24).

Virat Kohli produced one of the best knocks of his career to help India beat Pakistan by 4 wickets in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Sunday (October 24). Kohli played a match-winning knock of an unbeaten 82 to help India chase down the target of 160 runs in a dramatic finish. India were rocked early in their pursuit of the 160-run target after their excellent show with the ball as openers KL Rahul (4) and Rohit Sharma (4) were both sent back cheaply. The Men in Blue were reduced to 31/4 inside the first seven overs as Pakistan pacers dominated the proceedings. However, Kohli decided to take on the onus upon himself as he combined with Hardik Pandya to pull India back into the contest. The duo added a crucial stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket and kept India in the hunt till the end. With 48 runs to get off the final three overs, Pandya struggled to play the big shots but Kohli shifted the gears seamlessly. He looked in sublime control as the senior batter played some stunning shots to all parts of the ground. He smacked three fours against Shaheen Afridi before smashing two stunning sixes against Haris Rauf in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 runs required off the last over. Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan Kohli then slammed a six off the fourth delivery off the final over from Mohammad Nawaz which turned out to be a no-ball as luck favoured the brave. India went on to clinch the thriller on the final ball with R Ashwin showing great temperament under pressure to play the winning shot. Kohli was lauded by many for his heroic knock as he was the main architect of India's victory with his unbeaten 82 off 53 balls laced with six fours and four sixes. Several former Pakistan cricketers also heaped praise on the batting maestro, including the legendary Wasim Akram, who compared him to aliens. Akram called Kohli an alien among humans after being left in awe following his match-winning heroics at the MCG. "Aliens do walk among us, he's one of the best I've seen in the recent or modern greats. He has been scoring for the last 15 years, and he has the best average while chasing," said the former Pakistan cricketer. Also Read: Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup Kohli himself rated his knock against Pakistan as the best he has played in his career so far. The former India skipper looked in superb control throughout his knock despite having started slowly. He had managed only 11 runs off his first 20 balls but switched gears brilliantly to end up wth 71 runs off the next 33 deliveries. After getting off to a flying start in the tournament, Kohli will be hoping to continue his fine form when India lock horns with Netherlands in their next Super 12 encounter on Thursday (October 27).

'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG

'I don't know if God is a sports fan or not, but I do know this: He loves a good comeback'. Lane Kiffin.

The heavens too would have loved the magic Virat Kohli weaved with his willow against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. As the ball flew towards the rope off R. Ashwin's bat, Kohli jumped &amp; pumped in the air, it was an unreal moment. Cometh the hour cometh the man, the King has done it again. He has regained his fiefdom.

While Kohli has engineered many memorable victories for his team in the past, this win&nbsp;was a&nbsp;special one. During the presentation ceremony, Kohli called his innings against Pakistan at the T20 World cup game on Sunday his 'best T20 knock ever'. With an emphatic display of explosive firepower, Kohli single-handedly snatched the victory from the jaws of defeat.

But the journey has been arduous. The prolific batsman who has conquered all three realms of the game had a horrifying time over the last three years. While cricket pundits kept analysing his failures to look for a chink in his armour, they found none.

There was nothing wrong in his technique, no pattern in his dismissals. But the king had lost his Midas touch. The ace Indian cricketer had also shared early this year that the run drought affected his mental health. All through the Indian batting talisman kept his cool &amp; continued to marshal on and then came the moment, he scored a century against Afghanistan this year in the Asia Cup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-the-king-twitter-hails-virat-kohli-after-his-chasing-masterclass-against-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-527789">'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a>

With the monkey off his back, Kohli was well poised to return to his favourite hunting ground i.e. Australia for the T20 World Cup.

With an unbeaten 82 of 53 balls, Kohli emerged victorious in front of more than 90,000 spectators at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He&nbsp;made&nbsp;a nation of a billion-plus people erupt with joy with his heroics. Fireworks lit up the skies around India celebrating Kohli's epic knock in a riveting contest.

He too had a tear in his eyes, tears of joy, for the first time in his cricketing tear. This victory was&nbsp;truly surreal. Nerve-wracking would be an understatement.

The pressure on Kohli would have been bigger than one would experience at the bottom of Mariana Trench. The steep run chase &amp; the fiery bowling by Pakistan's bowlers continued to make things worse for India.

India needed 48 runs from the last three overs. Kohli remained focused, hitting lusty blows &amp; running like a gazelle between the wickets converting ones into twos and twos into three. In the 18th over the modern-day master launched a fierce counter-attack.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a>

He smashed the dangerous Shaheen Afridi for three fours. The best was yet to come, Haris Rauf saw two of his deliveries sail into the stands. Remember this is MCG, which boasts of massive boundaries, but again he is the King.

India still needed 16 runs in the final over. Hardik Pandya miscued the first ball and there ended the 113-run stand. Next came Dinesh Karthik but he too could not trouble the scorers much. Kohli still believed in his pyrotechnics and hit Mohammad Nawaz for a massive six.

Nawaz who has had a brilliant six months turned out to be the villain for Pakistan. He conceded a wide &amp; a no-ball in the last over, only to help Kohli's cause as India eventually got over the line to earn a thrilling four-wicket win.

India-Pakistan matches have always enthralled sporting fans around the world and the two sides&nbsp;didn't disappoint. Pakistan played brilliantly, they kept pushing India but ultimately it was the pressure that they could not manage in the last over.

'I don't know if God is a sports fan or not, but I do know this: He loves a good comeback'. Lane Kiffin. The heavens too would have loved the magic Virat Kohli weaved with his willow against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday.

'I don't know if God is a sports fan or not, but I do know this: He loves a good comeback'. Lane Kiffin. The heavens too would have loved the magic Virat Kohli weaved with his willow against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. As the ball flew towards the rope off R. Ashwin's bat, Kohli jumped & pumped in the air, it was an unreal moment. Cometh the hour cometh the man, the King has done it again. He has regained his fiefdom. While Kohli has engineered many memorable victories for his team in the past, this win was a special one. During the presentation ceremony, Kohli called his innings against Pakistan at the T20 World cup game on Sunday his 'best T20 knock ever'. With an emphatic display of explosive firepower, Kohli single-handedly snatched the victory from the jaws of defeat. But the journey has been arduous. The prolific batsman who has conquered all three realms of the game had a horrifying time over the last three years. While cricket pundits kept analysing his failures to look for a chink in his armour, they found none. There was nothing wrong in his technique, no pattern in his dismissals. But the king had lost his Midas touch. The ace Indian cricketer had also shared early this year that the run drought affected his mental health. All through the Indian batting talisman kept his cool & continued to marshal on and then came the moment, he scored a century against Afghanistan this year in the Asia Cup. Also Read: 'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup With the monkey off his back, Kohli was well poised to return to his favourite hunting ground i.e. Australia for the T20 World Cup. With an unbeaten 82 of 53 balls, Kohli emerged victorious in front of more than 90,000 spectators at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He made a nation of a billion-plus people erupt with joy with his heroics. Fireworks lit up the skies around India celebrating Kohli's epic knock in a riveting contest. He too had a tear in his eyes, tears of joy, for the first time in his cricketing tear. This victory was truly surreal. Nerve-wracking would be an understatement. The pressure on Kohli would have been bigger than one would experience at the bottom of Mariana Trench. The steep run chase & the fiery bowling by Pakistan's bowlers continued to make things worse for India. India needed 48 runs from the last three overs. Kohli remained focused, hitting lusty blows & running like a gazelle between the wickets converting ones into twos and twos into three. In the 18th over the modern-day master launched a fierce counter-attack. Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan He smashed the dangerous Shaheen Afridi for three fours. The best was yet to come, Haris Rauf saw two of his deliveries sail into the stands. Remember this is MCG, which boasts of massive boundaries, but again he is the King. India still needed 16 runs in the final over. Hardik Pandya miscued the first ball and there ended the 113-run stand. Next came Dinesh Karthik but he too could not trouble the scorers much. Kohli still believed in his pyrotechnics and hit Mohammad Nawaz for a massive six. Nawaz who has had a brilliant six months turned out to be the villain for Pakistan. He conceded a wide & a no-ball in the last over, only to help Kohli's cause as India eventually got over the line to earn a thrilling four-wicket win. India-Pakistan matches have always enthralled sporting fans around the world and the two sides didn't disappoint. Pakistan played brilliantly, they kept pushing India but ultimately it was the pressure that they could not manage in the last over.

Chase master Virat Kohli completes redemption arc with epic knock against Pakistan in T20 World Cup

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal&nbsp;for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup.

The hype surrounding the marquee clash between the two arch-rivals is immense as they lock horns for only the third time this year. India and Pakistan met twice in the Asia Cup earlier this year where both teams managed to win a game each. India have lost twice in their last three meetings against their eternal rivals and revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. on Sunday.

Ahead of the marquee clash, Gambhir said India should treat the game as a stepping stone towards realising their ultimate dream of returning home as the new T20 World Cup winners. "Beating Pakistan is not the goal, it is just a step towards winning the cup," said Gambhir while speaking on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-should-put-this-topic-to-rest-says-hardik-pandya-ahead-of-the-india-pak-clash-527719">'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of the India-Pak clash</a>

Thousands of fans from around the world packed the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground ahead of the mother of all clashes between the two cricketing giants on Sunday. Tickets for the high-profile game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries would be hoping for a full game amid rain threat.

While Gambhir urged India to treat the clash against Pakistan as just another game to ensure they can continue focusing on the ultimate prize, he said the game will not be a one-sided affair as Babar Azam &amp; Co. have a quality pace attack which can wreck havoc on its day.

"I am not going to say it’s a one-sided game because Pakistan is a very strong bowling line-up. They probably have the best bowling line-up in this competition when it comes to seamers. They have got three quality pacers who can bowl 140-plus," said Gambhir.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-rohit-sharma-to-surpass-ms-dhoni-to-achieve-elite-record-during-india-pakistan-clash-527708">Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash</a>

Pakistan's 10-wicket win against India in the&nbsp;meeting between the two teams at the T20 World Cup last year was the first time the Men in Green managed to get the better of their arch-rivals in a World Cup game. India lead 4-1 when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the T20 World Cup.

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup.

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup. The hype surrounding the marquee clash between the two arch-rivals is immense as they lock horns for only the third time this year. India and Pakistan met twice in the Asia Cup earlier this year where both teams managed to win a game each. India have lost twice in their last three meetings against their eternal rivals and revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma & Co. on Sunday. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gambhir said India should treat the game as a stepping stone towards realising their ultimate dream of returning home as the new T20 World Cup winners. "Beating Pakistan is not the goal, it is just a step towards winning the cup," said Gambhir while speaking on Star Sports. Also Read: 'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of the India-Pak clash Thousands of fans from around the world packed the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground ahead of the mother of all clashes between the two cricketing giants on Sunday. Tickets for the high-profile game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries would be hoping for a full game amid rain threat. While Gambhir urged India to treat the clash against Pakistan as just another game to ensure they can continue focusing on the ultimate prize, he said the game will not be a one-sided affair as Babar Azam & Co. have a quality pace attack which can wreck havoc on its day. "I am not going to say it’s a one-sided game because Pakistan is a very strong bowling line-up. They probably have the best bowling line-up in this competition when it comes to seamers. They have got three quality pacers who can bowl 140-plus," said Gambhir. Also Read: Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash Pakistan's 10-wicket win against India in the meeting between the two teams at the T20 World Cup last year was the first time the Men in Green managed to get the better of their arch-rivals in a World Cup game. India lead 4-1 when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the T20 World Cup.

Beating Pakistan not the goal, it's just a step for winning cup: Gautam Gambhir on marquee clash

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.

While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field.

But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats.

It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-pacer-tim-southee-pips-shakib-al-hasan-to-become-leading-wicket-taker-in-t20is-527621">New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is</a>

While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times.

And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'.

BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious.

India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India

This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet.

And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler.

The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form.

How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations.

But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy.

While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things.

But with three left-handers -&nbsp;Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation.

Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devon-conway-tim-southee-help-new-zealand-thrash-australia-by-89-runs-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527600">Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022</a>

On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best. 
At the MCG after 37 years

It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson &amp; Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place.

That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG.

There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours.

No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'.

Squads:

India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda.

Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday. While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field. But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats. It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts. Also Read: New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times. And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'. BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious. India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet. And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler. The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form. How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations. But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy. While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things. But with three left-handers - Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation. Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard. Also Read: Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022 On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best. At the MCG after 37 years It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson & Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place. That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG. There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours. No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda. Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.

Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has warned captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management against playing Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. The 2007 T20 World Cup winner believes the decision to play Karthik, who has been effective only in slog overs can backfire for India at the World Cup.

While Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has confirmed he has already decided the playing XI for the team's opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022, the debate surrounding the team combination has not died down. One of the major selection headaches for India is the wicket-keeper's slot with Karthik and Pant competing against each other.

While Pant holds a significant advantage in being a left-hander in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian team management has recently backed Karthik over the young gun considering his finishing exploits. The 37-year-old has been phenomenal down the order and has played numerous match-winning cameos for the Indian team as a finisher.

However, Gambhir believes India should not pick a batter specifically to play only ten balls and that the strategy can prove to be dangerous when India lose early wickets. The former India opener said he would pick Pant to bat at number five in his playing XI with Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel batting at no.6 and no.7 respectively.

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"In my playing XI, Rishabh Pant should play at No.5, Hardik Pandya at No.6, and Axar Patel at No.7. But what we have seen in the practice matches is that Dinesh Karthik will play. But a player is not picked to play just 10 balls. You should pick a player so that he can bat at No.5 or 6. But Dinesh Karthik has not shown that intention," Gambhir told Zee News.&nbsp;

"He and the team management have shown the intention that he will bat only in the last 2-3 overs and that can be dangerous because in Australia, if you lose early wickets, you might have to send in Axar Patel early because you also wouldn't want to expose Hardik early. That is why I picked Pant in my playing XI. But again, that won't happen," he added.

While India's top four is already sorted with captain Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav walking into the XI, Gambhir feels India should play with three specialist fast bowlers in Australia. He picked Mohammed Shami as his first-choice pacer and backed Harshal Patel as the death overs specialist.

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The former India opener wants the team management to select one between Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh while using Hardik Pandya as the fourth pacer.&nbsp;

"You will have to play with three pacers. Mohammed Shami should be picked first, before Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshal Patel. Hardik Pandya will be the fourth seamer and the sixth bowling option. The quality Shami has, we know he is very effective with the new ball, but with the old ball, which we all saw in the match against Australia. So, Shami first. One of Bhuvneshwar or Arshdeep should be picked. Harshal should be picked because he does have some experience bowling in the death," said Gambhir.

India will lock horns with Pakistan in their opening game in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India have lost twice in their last three meetings against the Men in Green and will be looking to set the record straight this time around.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has warned captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management against playing Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has warned captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management against playing Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. The 2007 T20 World Cup winner believes the decision to play Karthik, who has been effective only in slog overs can backfire for India at the World Cup. While Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has confirmed he has already decided the playing XI for the team's opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022, the debate surrounding the team combination has not died down. One of the major selection headaches for India is the wicket-keeper's slot with Karthik and Pant competing against each other. While Pant holds a significant advantage in being a left-hander in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian team management has recently backed Karthik over the young gun considering his finishing exploits. The 37-year-old has been phenomenal down the order and has played numerous match-winning cameos for the Indian team as a finisher. However, Gambhir believes India should not pick a batter specifically to play only ten balls and that the strategy can prove to be dangerous when India lose early wickets. The former India opener said he would pick Pant to bat at number five in his playing XI with Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel batting at no.6 and no.7 respectively. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments "In my playing XI, Rishabh Pant should play at No.5, Hardik Pandya at No.6, and Axar Patel at No.7. But what we have seen in the practice matches is that Dinesh Karthik will play. But a player is not picked to play just 10 balls. You should pick a player so that he can bat at No.5 or 6. But Dinesh Karthik has not shown that intention," Gambhir told Zee News. "He and the team management have shown the intention that he will bat only in the last 2-3 overs and that can be dangerous because in Australia, if you lose early wickets, you might have to send in Axar Patel early because you also wouldn't want to expose Hardik early. That is why I picked Pant in my playing XI. But again, that won't happen," he added. While India's top four is already sorted with captain Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav walking into the XI, Gambhir feels India should play with three specialist fast bowlers in Australia. He picked Mohammed Shami as his first-choice pacer and backed Harshal Patel as the death overs specialist. Also Read: Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma The former India opener wants the team management to select one between Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh while using Hardik Pandya as the fourth pacer. "You will have to play with three pacers. Mohammed Shami should be picked first, before Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshal Patel. Hardik Pandya will be the fourth seamer and the sixth bowling option. The quality Shami has, we know he is very effective with the new ball, but with the old ball, which we all saw in the match against Australia. So, Shami first. One of Bhuvneshwar or Arshdeep should be picked. Harshal should be picked because he does have some experience bowling in the death," said Gambhir. India will lock horns with Pakistan in their opening game in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India have lost twice in their last three meetings against the Men in Green and will be looking to set the record straight this time around.

A player is not picked to play 10 balls: Gambhir explains why India should play Pant over Karthik in T20 WC

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest.

India have not won an ICC trophy in nine years now as their last triumph came under the legendary MS Dhoni at the Champions Trophy in 2013. India have since been part of two ODI and three T20I World Cups, however, they have failed to go the distance.

India came close to ending the drought in the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the ICC Test Championship last year but ended up faltering towards the end.&nbsp;Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who is gearing up to lead the team in his first-ever T20 World Cup, said there is disappointment among the players as India have not managed to win an ICC trophy in nine years.

However, the Hitman expressed confidence that the ongoing T20 World Cup gives India a chance to set the record straight.&nbsp;Speaking at the pre-match presser ahead of India's much-awaited clash against Pakistan on Sunday, Rohit said there is pressure in a big tournament but the Men in Blue would like to focus on one game at a time.

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"Yes, it is a challenge to not win ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there is lot of expectations, we certainly little disappointed with that," said Rohit speaking about India's ICC trophy drought.

"This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead," he added.

Rohit, who took over from Virat Kohli as the captain of the Indian team in all three formats earlier this year, spoke about how he has worked on little things as a leader to give his players the confidence they require to go out and perform at the highest level.&nbsp;

"The most important thing was to give players freedom, giving them the security to do well in challenging situations. We focused on how to give players the security without worrying about results. These small things matter a lot, in this last one year, us not focusing on results, we wanted to focus on small things. We were thinking about how we can play fearlessly. We were talking about it in our dressing room," said the Indian skipper.

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India were unbeaten in the bilateral T20I series under Rohit's captaincy since he took charge of the team. However, the team disappointed in the Asia Cup 2022 where they failed to make it to the final after losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Rohit will be hoping to inspire the team to go the distance in the T20 World Cup down under.

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest.

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest. India have not won an ICC trophy in nine years now as their last triumph came under the legendary MS Dhoni at the Champions Trophy in 2013. India have since been part of two ODI and three T20I World Cups, however, they have failed to go the distance. India came close to ending the drought in the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the ICC Test Championship last year but ended up faltering towards the end. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who is gearing up to lead the team in his first-ever T20 World Cup, said there is disappointment among the players as India have not managed to win an ICC trophy in nine years. However, the Hitman expressed confidence that the ongoing T20 World Cup gives India a chance to set the record straight. Speaking at the pre-match presser ahead of India's much-awaited clash against Pakistan on Sunday, Rohit said there is pressure in a big tournament but the Men in Blue would like to focus on one game at a time. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots "Yes, it is a challenge to not win ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there is lot of expectations, we certainly little disappointed with that," said Rohit speaking about India's ICC trophy drought. "This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead," he added. Rohit, who took over from Virat Kohli as the captain of the Indian team in all three formats earlier this year, spoke about how he has worked on little things as a leader to give his players the confidence they require to go out and perform at the highest level. "The most important thing was to give players freedom, giving them the security to do well in challenging situations. We focused on how to give players the security without worrying about results. These small things matter a lot, in this last one year, us not focusing on results, we wanted to focus on small things. We were thinking about how we can play fearlessly. We were talking about it in our dressing room," said the Indian skipper. Also Read: Virender Sehwag picks Pakistan star to finish as highest run-getter in T20 World Cup 2022 India were unbeaten in the bilateral T20I series under Rohit's captaincy since he took charge of the team. However, the team disappointed in the Asia Cup 2022 where they failed to make it to the final after losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Rohit will be hoping to inspire the team to go the distance in the T20 World Cup down under.

Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma

Zimbabwe and Ireland became the final two teams to secure a spot in the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Friday (October 21) after winning their respective last matches in the qualifiers. While Zimbabwe defeated Scotland, Ireland stunned two-time champions West Indies to make it to the Super 12 from Group B.

The upset of the day came in the form of Ireland's comprehensive nine-wicket win against Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies, ending the two-time winners' dominance in the shortest format of the game. Ireland restricted West Indies to a moderate total of 146 runs and chased down the target with 15 balls to spare.

In the final match in the qualifying stage, Zimbabwe was up against Scotland to fight for the last remaining spot in the Super 12. After a splendid bowling performance, Zimbabwe rode on a brilliant half-century from Craig Ervine and a fiery cameo of 23-ball 40 from Sikandar Raza to register a comfortable five-wicket win.

While Ireland will join the likes of Australia and England in Group 1 in the Super 12, Zimbabwe will be in Group 2 which also consists of the likes of India and Pakistan.

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Earlier, Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka qualified for the Super 12 after they bounced back from their shock defeat against Namibia in their opening game. Sri Lanka defeated UAE and Netherlands in their next two games to top Group A. They were joined in the Super 12 by Netherlands as Namibia failed to win their remaining two matches against the Dutch and the UAE.

From Group A, Sri Lanka will join Australia, England and others in Group 1 in the Super 12 while Netherlands will join India and Pakistan among others in Group 2.&nbsp;

Here is a look at all 12 confirmed teams in Super 12 stage of T20 World Cup 2022:

Group 1: Australia, England, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Ireland

Group 2: India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, Netherlands

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With the confirmation of the teams in the two groups in Super 12, India's fixture list has also been finalised. India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 before taking on Netherlands, South Africa, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe in their remaining four matches.

Zimbabwe and Ireland became the final two teams to secure a spot in the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Friday (October 21) after winning their respective last matches in the qualifiers.

Zimbabwe and Ireland became the final two teams to secure a spot in the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Friday (October 21) after winning their respective last matches in the qualifiers. While Zimbabwe defeated Scotland, Ireland stunned two-time champions West Indies to make it to the Super 12 from Group B. The upset of the day came in the form of Ireland's comprehensive nine-wicket win against Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies, ending the two-time winners' dominance in the shortest format of the game. Ireland restricted West Indies to a moderate total of 146 runs and chased down the target with 15 balls to spare. In the final match in the qualifying stage, Zimbabwe was up against Scotland to fight for the last remaining spot in the Super 12. After a splendid bowling performance, Zimbabwe rode on a brilliant half-century from Craig Ervine and a fiery cameo of 23-ball 40 from Sikandar Raza to register a comfortable five-wicket win. While Ireland will join the likes of Australia and England in Group 1 in the Super 12, Zimbabwe will be in Group 2 which also consists of the likes of India and Pakistan. Also Read: India can't dictate how Pakistan plays cricket: Wasim Akram on Jay Shah's Asia Cup statement Earlier, Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka qualified for the Super 12 after they bounced back from their shock defeat against Namibia in their opening game. Sri Lanka defeated UAE and Netherlands in their next two games to top Group A. They were joined in the Super 12 by Netherlands as Namibia failed to win their remaining two matches against the Dutch and the UAE. From Group A, Sri Lanka will join Australia, England and others in Group 1 in the Super 12 while Netherlands will join India and Pakistan among others in Group 2. Here is a look at all 12 confirmed teams in Super 12 stage of T20 World Cup 2022: Group 1: Australia, England, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Ireland Group 2: India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, Netherlands Also Read: Virender Sehwag picks Pakistan star to finish as highest run-getter in T20 World Cup 2022 With the confirmation of the teams in the two groups in Super 12, India's fixture list has also been finalised. India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 before taking on Netherlands, South Africa, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe in their remaining four matches.

T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots

In a major upset, Ireland thrashed two-time champions West Indies by nine wickets in the qualifiers at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Friday to knock them out of the T20 World Cup 2022 and reach the Super 12 stage. Ireland chased down the target of 147 runs without breaking a sweat to pull off one of their most important wins in recent times.

Ireland failed to get past the first round in their last five appearances in the T20 World Cup. However, the Andrew Balbirnie-led side pulled off a heist against West Indies on Sunday courtesy of an incredible batting display. Paul Stirling was the hero for Ireland with a stunning knock of unbeaten 66 while captain&nbsp;Balbirnie and&nbsp;Lorcan Tucker also made crucial contributions.

Ireland bowlers produced a brilliant effort to restrict West Indies on a moderate total of 146 runs as spinner Gareth Delany impressed with the ball and finished with a three-wicket haul. In reply, Ireland had a cakewalk in the run chase ad the West Indies bowlers were taken to the cleaners by Stirling and Tucker.

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Stirling and Balbirine went all guns blazing at the top after opening the batting for Ireland as the pair added 73 runs for the first wicket. Balbirine was dismissed on 37 off 23 balls by Akel Hossein, which ended up being the only dismissal during Ireland's run-chase as they dominated the proceedings with the bat.

After the skipper's departure, Stirling continued his onslaught at one end and was joined by Tucker, who played a crucial knock of unbeaten 45 off 35 deliveries. The duo combined to take their side home comfortably with 15 balls to spare and secure a spot in the Super 12 stage.

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While Ireland made it to the Super 12 for the first time in six attempts, West Indies have crashed out of the competition from the first round for the first time in their history. The two-time champions have had a fall from grace as they have now failed to reach the knockout stages twice in a row.

Ireland will be joined by the winners of the clash between Scotland and Zimbabwe in the Super 12. If the Irish manage to retain the top spot, they will join the likes of India and Pakistan in Group 2 in the Super 12 of T20 World Cup 2022.

In a major upset, Ireland thrashed two-time champions West Indies by nine wickets in the qualifiers at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Friday to knock them out of the T20 World Cup 2022 and reach the Super 12 stage.

In a major upset, Ireland thrashed two-time champions West Indies by nine wickets in the qualifiers at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Friday to knock them out of the T20 World Cup 2022 and reach the Super 12 stage. Ireland chased down the target of 147 runs without breaking a sweat to pull off one of their most important wins in recent times. Ireland failed to get past the first round in their last five appearances in the T20 World Cup. However, the Andrew Balbirnie-led side pulled off a heist against West Indies on Sunday courtesy of an incredible batting display. Paul Stirling was the hero for Ireland with a stunning knock of unbeaten 66 while captain Balbirnie and Lorcan Tucker also made crucial contributions. Ireland bowlers produced a brilliant effort to restrict West Indies on a moderate total of 146 runs as spinner Gareth Delany impressed with the ball and finished with a three-wicket haul. In reply, Ireland had a cakewalk in the run chase ad the West Indies bowlers were taken to the cleaners by Stirling and Tucker. Also Read: David Wiese's 55 in vain as UAE eliminate Namibia, Netherlands enter Super 12 Stirling and Balbirine went all guns blazing at the top after opening the batting for Ireland as the pair added 73 runs for the first wicket. Balbirine was dismissed on 37 off 23 balls by Akel Hossein, which ended up being the only dismissal during Ireland's run-chase as they dominated the proceedings with the bat. After the skipper's departure, Stirling continued his onslaught at one end and was joined by Tucker, who played a crucial knock of unbeaten 45 off 35 deliveries. The duo combined to take their side home comfortably with 15 balls to spare and secure a spot in the Super 12 stage. Also Read: Travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup not board's call, government will decide: BCCI chief Roger Binny While Ireland made it to the Super 12 for the first time in six attempts, West Indies have crashed out of the competition from the first round for the first time in their history. The two-time champions have had a fall from grace as they have now failed to reach the knockout stages twice in a row. Ireland will be joined by the winners of the clash between Scotland and Zimbabwe in the Super 12. If the Irish manage to retain the top spot, they will join the likes of India and Pakistan in Group 2 in the Super 12 of T20 World Cup 2022.

Paul Stirling stars as Ireland knock out two-time champions West Indies from T20 World Cup 2022

The T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already seen a couple of major upsets with Namibia and Ireland defeating Sri Lanka and West Indies in their respective opening matches. Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka on the opening day of the tournament before Ireland got the better of two-time champions West Indies in the qualifiers on Monday.

Four out of the eight teams battling it out in the qualifiers will join the top eight sides in the Super 12 stage which will get underway on October 22. Ahead of the start of the Super 12 phase, the legendary Sachin Tendulkar predicted the four semi-finalists of the competition.

Indian cricket legend Tendulkar believes both India and Pakistan will make it to the semis along with defending champions Australia and favourites England. All four teams are major contenders to lift the title considering the quality they have in their ranks.

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"India and Pakistan from our group. But I will pick South Africa as a dark horse as the conditions will mirror those that they are used to in October and November. In the other group, I expect Australia and England to qualify with New Zealand being the dark horse,” Tendulkar was quoted as saying in an interview with Times of India.

While India, Pakistan and South Africa are all part of Group 2 in the Super 12, Australia and England are in&nbsp;Group 1. India will open their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 and will be looking to get off to a winning start.

India have faced two defeats in their last three&nbsp;meetings against Pakistan and will be aiming for a turnaround this year. India were comprehensively thrashed by ten wickets when they locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year.

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Tendulkar also spoke about India's star batter Suryakumar Yadav, who has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow and has been touted by many as one of the players to watch out for in the tournament this year. The India legend said the team management's confidence in him and the assurance over his spot in the team has worked in the batter's favour.

"Confidence and appreciation. There is no better tonic than being encouraged and appreciated. It's just that he is doing it more consistently now. Success and appreciation have also changed him as a person. He plays so confidently today because he knows he need not worry about getting picked,” Sachin said about Suryakumar.

The T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already seen a couple of major upsets with Namibia and Ireland defeating Sri Lanka and West Indies in their respective opening matches.

The T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already seen a couple of major upsets with Namibia and Ireland defeating Sri Lanka and West Indies in their respective opening matches. Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka on the opening day of the tournament before Ireland got the better of two-time champions West Indies in the qualifiers on Monday. Four out of the eight teams battling it out in the qualifiers will join the top eight sides in the Super 12 stage which will get underway on October 22. Ahead of the start of the Super 12 phase, the legendary Sachin Tendulkar predicted the four semi-finalists of the competition. Indian cricket legend Tendulkar believes both India and Pakistan will make it to the semis along with defending champions Australia and favourites England. All four teams are major contenders to lift the title considering the quality they have in their ranks. Also Read: India won't tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, tournament to be held at neutral venue: ACC chief Jay Shah "India and Pakistan from our group. But I will pick South Africa as a dark horse as the conditions will mirror those that they are used to in October and November. In the other group, I expect Australia and England to qualify with New Zealand being the dark horse,” Tendulkar was quoted as saying in an interview with Times of India. While India, Pakistan and South Africa are all part of Group 2 in the Super 12, Australia and England are in Group 1. India will open their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 and will be looking to get off to a winning start. India have faced two defeats in their last three meetings against Pakistan and will be aiming for a turnaround this year. India were comprehensively thrashed by ten wickets when they locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year. Also Read: BCCI approves women's IPL, first edition to be staged in 2023 Tendulkar also spoke about India's star batter Suryakumar Yadav, who has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow and has been touted by many as one of the players to watch out for in the tournament this year. The India legend said the team management's confidence in him and the assurance over his spot in the team has worked in the batter's favour. "Confidence and appreciation. There is no better tonic than being encouraged and appreciated. It's just that he is doing it more consistently now. Success and appreciation have also changed him as a person. He plays so confidently today because he knows he need not worry about getting picked,” Sachin said about Suryakumar.

Sachin Tendulkar predicts semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2022, includes India and Pakistan

Virat Kohli's form with the willow will be crucial for the Indian team if they are to fancy their chances in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Kohli has a terrific record in the shortest format when it comes to playing in Australia and has mastered the conditions down under, over the years.

The senior India batter has 451 runs to his name in 11 T20Is in Australia at a brilliant average of 64.42, including five fifties. Kohli has the most runs by a visiting batter in Australia in T20Is and will be aiming to add to his tally in the T20 World Cup this year.

Ahead of the start of India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022, former India opener Gautam Gambhir aimed a jibe at Kohli and advised the senior India batter to focus on winning matches for his team rather than his individual records. Gambhir's comments came on Star Sports after Kohli's impressive numbers in Australia were highlighted during a show.

The presenter asked Gambhir with what mindset should Kohli approach the T20 World Cup after lauding him for his numbers in Australia. Gambhir came up with a straightforward response and said any batter should focus on scoring runs for the team.

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The former India cricketer, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team,&nbsp;said individual records are of no value in big tournaments like the World Cup and Kohli should look at playing impactful knocks rather than focusing on notching up&nbsp;fifties and centuries.

“Go with the mindset of scoring runs, what else can there be? The role of a batter is to make runs, the role of the bowler is take wickets. Make runs that help your team. Don't look at scoring 50s and 100s, score 30-40 runs at an impact which can help your team reach 170-180. If you are chasing, bat in a manner where you can relieve the lower middle-order of pressure.," Gambhir said on Star Sports.

"In these tournaments, individual records should be left at home. If you are going to Australia, pack these records in India. Individual records are of no value in these tournaments.

"Winning the World Cup is important. If you make 200 runs and your team wins the world cup that is your legacy. If you make 500 runs and the team does not qualify, those runs only go in your individual record. If the whole team faces criticism, you are part of it as well," added the former India opener.

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Kohli made a brilliant comeback in the Asia Cup earlier this year where he finished as the second-highest run-getter and has since enjoyed a prolific run with the bat. He will be looking to continue his purple patch in the ongoing T20 World Cup in Australia.

India will kick off their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on October 23.

Virat Kohli's form with the willow will be crucial for the Indian team if they are to fancy their chances in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Kohli has a terrific record in the shortest format when it comes to playing in Australia and has mastered the conditions down under, over the years.

Virat Kohli's form with the willow will be crucial for the Indian team if they are to fancy their chances in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Kohli has a terrific record in the shortest format when it comes to playing in Australia and has mastered the conditions down under, over the years. The senior India batter has 451 runs to his name in 11 T20Is in Australia at a brilliant average of 64.42, including five fifties. Kohli has the most runs by a visiting batter in Australia in T20Is and will be aiming to add to his tally in the T20 World Cup this year. Ahead of the start of India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022, former India opener Gautam Gambhir aimed a jibe at Kohli and advised the senior India batter to focus on winning matches for his team rather than his individual records. Gambhir's comments came on Star Sports after Kohli's impressive numbers in Australia were highlighted during a show. The presenter asked Gambhir with what mindset should Kohli approach the T20 World Cup after lauding him for his numbers in Australia. Gambhir came up with a straightforward response and said any batter should focus on scoring runs for the team. Also Read: Roger Binny officially replaces Sourav Ganguly as BCCI president, Jay Shah to continue as secretary The former India cricketer, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team, said individual records are of no value in big tournaments like the World Cup and Kohli should look at playing impactful knocks rather than focusing on notching up fifties and centuries. “Go with the mindset of scoring runs, what else can there be? The role of a batter is to make runs, the role of the bowler is take wickets. Make runs that help your team. Don't look at scoring 50s and 100s, score 30-40 runs at an impact which can help your team reach 170-180. If you are chasing, bat in a manner where you can relieve the lower middle-order of pressure.," Gambhir said on Star Sports. "In these tournaments, individual records should be left at home. If you are going to Australia, pack these records in India. Individual records are of no value in these tournaments. "Winning the World Cup is important. If you make 200 runs and your team wins the world cup that is your legacy. If you make 500 runs and the team does not qualify, those runs only go in your individual record. If the whole team faces criticism, you are part of it as well," added the former India opener. Also Read: Australia appoint Pat Cummins as ODI captain after Aaron Finch's retirement from 50-over format Kohli made a brilliant comeback in the Asia Cup earlier this year where he finished as the second-highest run-getter and has since enjoyed a prolific run with the bat. He will be looking to continue his purple patch in the ongoing T20 World Cup in Australia. India will kick off their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on October 23.

Individual records have no value in big tournaments: Gautam Gambhir's advice to Virat Kohli ahead of T20 WC

The ICC T20 World Cup 2022 got underway on Sunday (October 16) with Namibia pulling off an upset against Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in the opening game of the tournament. It was a cracking start to what is expected to be a blockbuster tournament with the top teams from around the globe battling it out for the ultimate trophy.

In a first, the ICC is reportedly set to allow players testing positive for COVID-19 to continue playing matches during the T20 World Cup. As per a report in cricket.com.au, the team doctors will have to take a call if a player should be allowed to take the field after contracting the virus.

The ICC also said there will be no mandatory testing or isolation period during the tournament. As per the report, the teams will be allowed to ring in changes to their squad to replace a player who tests positive for COVID-19. The infected player can return to the squad once he has returned a negative report.

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While this is the first time, ICC will be allowing players to compete throughout the tournament despite testing positive for COVID-19, it will not be the first instance when a player will be allowed to compete after being infected.

Australia women's team all-rounder Tahlia McGrath was allowed to take the field despite testing positive ahead of the Commonwealth Games 2022 final between the Aussies and India earlier this year. The players returning&nbsp;positive during the Commonwealth Games were dealt with on a case-to-case basis by the ICC where some were allowed to compete while others were not.

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The softening of rules from ICC comes a week after the Australian government's decision to abolish&nbsp;the mandatory isolation requirement for those who test positive for COVID-19. Australia had put strict rules in place to deal with COVID-19 when the cases were peaking last year.

However, the government has now decided to take a more controlled approach in dealing with the situation this time around.&nbsp; While the qualifiers kicked off on Sunday, the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2022 will get underway from October 22.

The ICC T20 World Cup 2022 got underway on Sunday (October 16) with Namibia pulling off an upset against Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in the opening game of the tournament.

The ICC T20 World Cup 2022 got underway on Sunday (October 16) with Namibia pulling off an upset against Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in the opening game of the tournament. It was a cracking start to what is expected to be a blockbuster tournament with the top teams from around the globe battling it out for the ultimate trophy. In a first, the ICC is reportedly set to allow players testing positive for COVID-19 to continue playing matches during the T20 World Cup. As per a report in cricket.com.au, the team doctors will have to take a call if a player should be allowed to take the field after contracting the virus. The ICC also said there will be no mandatory testing or isolation period during the tournament. As per the report, the teams will be allowed to ring in changes to their squad to replace a player who tests positive for COVID-19. The infected player can return to the squad once he has returned a negative report. Also Read: Mitchell Starc to Trent Boult: Top contenders to finish as highest wicket-taker at T20 World Cup 2022 While this is the first time, ICC will be allowing players to compete throughout the tournament despite testing positive for COVID-19, it will not be the first instance when a player will be allowed to compete after being infected. Australia women's team all-rounder Tahlia McGrath was allowed to take the field despite testing positive ahead of the Commonwealth Games 2022 final between the Aussies and India earlier this year. The players returning positive during the Commonwealth Games were dealt with on a case-to-case basis by the ICC where some were allowed to compete while others were not. Also Read: Aayan Khan becomes youngest to play in T20 World Cup: All you need to know about the UAE teenager The softening of rules from ICC comes a week after the Australian government's decision to abolish the mandatory isolation requirement for those who test positive for COVID-19. Australia had put strict rules in place to deal with COVID-19 when the cases were peaking last year. However, the government has now decided to take a more controlled approach in dealing with the situation this time around. While the qualifiers kicked off on Sunday, the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2022 will get underway from October 22.

ICC to allow players who test positive for COVID-19 to play matches in T20 World Cup 2022

Fiery bowling spells from pace trio of Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava and an all-round performance by Sikandar Raza powered Zimbabwe to a 31-run win over Ireland in their Group B, round one match of ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Hobart on Monday. Zimbabwe's put up a clinical performance to tame the Irish, a side with a dangerous batting lineup.&nbsp;

First, it was Raza's 82 off 48 that powered Zimbabwe to 174/7, then Muzarbani (3/23) was the lead act in his side's success with the ball, restricting Ireland to 143/9 in 20 overs. Chasing 175, Ireland was off to a horrendous start.

Medium-pace duo of Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani unleashed terror on Ireland, sending back Paul Stirling (0), Lorcan Tucker (11), Harry Tector (1) and captain Andrew Balbirnie (3) within a space of just 22 runs in 3.5 overs. Curtis Campher and George Dockrell joined forces to take their side safely through powerplay overs. At the end of the powerplay in six overs, Ireland was at 33/4, with Dockrell (4*) and Campher (6*).&nbsp;

Ireland crossed the 50-run mark in eight overs. The partnership between the duo ended at 42 runs after a delivery by Sikandar Raza castled Dockrell's middle stump. He was back in the pavillion for 24 off 20 balls. Ireland was five down for 64 runs. Campher and Gareth Delany added 27 more runs to the total before Sean Williams dislodged the former's stumps, dismissing him for 27 off 22 balls.&nbsp;

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Ireland crossed the 100-run mark in 13.5 overs and still needed 75 runs in 37 balls. Medium pacer Tendai Chatara strengthened Zimbabwe's hold in the match, dismissing Delany (24) and Simi Singh (0) to reduce their opponents to 102/8 in 14.5 overs. Muzarabani got his third wicket in the match when he dismissed Mark Adair for 9 off 10 balls. Ireland finished their innings at 143/9 in 20 overs, losing the match by 31 runs.&nbsp;

Barry McCarthy (22*) and Joshua Little (7*) were unbeaten for their side. Muzarbani (3/23) was the standout bowler for Zimbabwe and troubled the opponents with his line and length. Chatara and Ngarava took 2/22 each. Williams and Raza got one wicket each. Put to bat first by Ireland, pacer Joshua Little gave Zimbabwe two jolts, sending back wicketkeeper-batter Regis Chakabva (0) and Wesley Madhevere (22).&nbsp;

Skipper Craig Ervine was also dismissed by spinner Simi Singh after being stumped by wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker for 9. Zimbabwe was reduced to 37/3 in 5.3 overs. After the powerplay, Zimbabwe was at 41/3 in six overs, Sikandar Raza (2*) and Sean Williams (1*).&nbsp;

Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza stabilised the innings, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Simi got his second wicket in the match on the final ball of the 10th over when a relay catch by Mark Adair and Harry Tector dismissed Sean for 12 off 11 balls. Zimbabwe was at 79/4 in 10 overs.&nbsp;

Raza and Milton Shumba helped Zimbabwe cross the 100-run mark in 12.2 overs. Raza continued his lethal run of form, slamming a full-length delivery by Gareth Delany over wide long-on to bring his half-century in just 26 balls. Raza and Shumba brought up their 50-run stand. Their partnership was cut short by 58 runs soon after Shumba gave a catch to Little at short fine leg on a delivery by pacer Mark Adair. He was dismissed for 16 off 14 balls.&nbsp;

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At the time of his dismissal, Zimbabwe was 137/5 in 15.5 overs. Little picked up his third wicket of the match, sending back Ryan Burl (1). Raza and Luke Jongwe helped Zimbabwe finish their innings at 174/7 in 20 overs. Raza scored 82* off just 48 balls before being dismissed by Adair on the final ball of the innings.&nbsp;

Jongwe was unbeaten on 20 off 10 balls at the other end. Little was the pick of the bowlers for Ireland, finishing with 3/24 in his four overs. Adair (2/39) and Simi Singh (2/31) also delivered some solid spells for Ireland.&nbsp;

Brief Scores: Zimbabwe: 174/7 in 20 overs (Sikandar Raza 82, Wesley Madhevere 22, Joshua Little 3/24) defeated Ireland: 143/9 in 20 overs (Curtis Campher 27, George Dockrell 20, Blessing Muzarbani 3/23) by 31 runs. (ANI)

Fiery bowling spells from pace trio of Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava and an all-round performance by Sikandar Raza powered Zimbabwe to a 31-run win over Ireland in their Group B, round one match of ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Hobart on Monday.

Fiery bowling spells from pace trio of Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava and an all-round performance by Sikandar Raza powered Zimbabwe to a 31-run win over Ireland in their Group B, round one match of ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Hobart on Monday. Zimbabwe's put up a clinical performance to tame the Irish, a side with a dangerous batting lineup. First, it was Raza's 82 off 48 that powered Zimbabwe to 174/7, then Muzarbani (3/23) was the lead act in his side's success with the ball, restricting Ireland to 143/9 in 20 overs. Chasing 175, Ireland was off to a horrendous start. Medium-pace duo of Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani unleashed terror on Ireland, sending back Paul Stirling (0), Lorcan Tucker (11), Harry Tector (1) and captain Andrew Balbirnie (3) within a space of just 22 runs in 3.5 overs. Curtis Campher and George Dockrell joined forces to take their side safely through powerplay overs. At the end of the powerplay in six overs, Ireland was at 33/4, with Dockrell (4*) and Campher (6*). Ireland crossed the 50-run mark in eight overs. The partnership between the duo ended at 42 runs after a delivery by Sikandar Raza castled Dockrell's middle stump. He was back in the pavillion for 24 off 20 balls. Ireland was five down for 64 runs. Campher and Gareth Delany added 27 more runs to the total before Sean Williams dislodged the former's stumps, dismissing him for 27 off 22 balls. Also Read: Bowlers run riot as Scotland stun two-time champions West Indies in T20 World Cup 2022 Ireland crossed the 100-run mark in 13.5 overs and still needed 75 runs in 37 balls. Medium pacer Tendai Chatara strengthened Zimbabwe's hold in the match, dismissing Delany (24) and Simi Singh (0) to reduce their opponents to 102/8 in 14.5 overs. Muzarabani got his third wicket in the match when he dismissed Mark Adair for 9 off 10 balls. Ireland finished their innings at 143/9 in 20 overs, losing the match by 31 runs. Barry McCarthy (22*) and Joshua Little (7*) were unbeaten for their side. Muzarbani (3/23) was the standout bowler for Zimbabwe and troubled the opponents with his line and length. Chatara and Ngarava took 2/22 each. Williams and Raza got one wicket each. Put to bat first by Ireland, pacer Joshua Little gave Zimbabwe two jolts, sending back wicketkeeper-batter Regis Chakabva (0) and Wesley Madhevere (22). Skipper Craig Ervine was also dismissed by spinner Simi Singh after being stumped by wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker for 9. Zimbabwe was reduced to 37/3 in 5.3 overs. After the powerplay, Zimbabwe was at 41/3 in six overs, Sikandar Raza (2*) and Sean Williams (1*). Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza stabilised the innings, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Simi got his second wicket in the match on the final ball of the 10th over when a relay catch by Mark Adair and Harry Tector dismissed Sean for 12 off 11 balls. Zimbabwe was at 79/4 in 10 overs. Raza and Milton Shumba helped Zimbabwe cross the 100-run mark in 12.2 overs. Raza continued his lethal run of form, slamming a full-length delivery by Gareth Delany over wide long-on to bring his half-century in just 26 balls. Raza and Shumba brought up their 50-run stand. Their partnership was cut short by 58 runs soon after Shumba gave a catch to Little at short fine leg on a delivery by pacer Mark Adair. He was dismissed for 16 off 14 balls. Also Read: From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: Star players who are not part of India's T20 World Cup squad At the time of his dismissal, Zimbabwe was 137/5 in 15.5 overs. Little picked up his third wicket of the match, sending back Ryan Burl (1). Raza and Luke Jongwe helped Zimbabwe finish their innings at 174/7 in 20 overs. Raza scored 82* off just 48 balls before being dismissed by Adair on the final ball of the innings. Jongwe was unbeaten on 20 off 10 balls at the other end. Little was the pick of the bowlers for Ireland, finishing with 3/24 in his four overs. Adair (2/39) and Simi Singh (2/31) also delivered some solid spells for Ireland. Brief Scores: Zimbabwe: 174/7 in 20 overs (Sikandar Raza 82, Wesley Madhevere 22, Joshua Little 3/24) defeated Ireland: 143/9 in 20 overs (Curtis Campher 27, George Dockrell 20, Blessing Muzarbani 3/23) by 31 runs. (ANI)

Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani star as Zimbabwe thrash Ireland by 31 runs in T20 World Cup 2022

England captain Jos Buttler has picked Australia as the title favourites in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. Speaking ahead of the start of the tournament, Buttler said the hosts always enjoy an advantage compared to other teams as they are well accustomed to the conditions.&nbsp;

Buttler picked defending champions Australia as favourites despite England having beaten them 2-0 in their own backyard in the recently-concluded three-match series. England defeated the Aussies by 8 runs in the first game before pulling off another victory by the same margin in the next game.

The third T20I was a no-result after the game was called off due to rain. While there were close contests, England showcased why they themselves will remain one of the firm favourites to win the elusive trophy this year. However, Buttler insisted home advantage will be crucial for Australia.

"I think history tells you that generally, the host nations are slight favourites in big tournaments," the England captain said in a presser ahead of the start of the tournament.

"Lots of people have played in Australia in those conditions but of course no one is going to know the conditions or be as accustomed to them as the Australian team and the reigning champions as well," he added.

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England enjoyed a great campaign in the T20 World Cup last year under former skipper Eoin Morgan. They were unbeaten in the group stages and went on to defeat South Africa in the Super 12 before getting knocked out after losing the semi-final against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi.

Buttler, who will be leading England for the first time in a T20 World Cup, agreed T20 is an unpredictable format and even a single player can take the game away from the opposition on his day. The England skipper said they have had a good preparation and are looking forward to getting off to a good start in the tournament.

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"In T20 cricket, one person can take the game away from you," said Buttler.

"We've had good preparation. We look forward to this tournament and don't try and read too much into past tournaments or things. We try and learn and get better and improve every day, and look forward to starting this competition in the next week," he added.

England captain Jos Buttler has picked Australia as the title favourites in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. Speaking ahead of the start of the tournament, Buttler said the hosts always enjoy an advantage compared to other teams as they are well accustomed to the conditions.

England captain Jos Buttler has picked Australia as the title favourites in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. Speaking ahead of the start of the tournament, Buttler said the hosts always enjoy an advantage compared to other teams as they are well accustomed to the conditions. Buttler picked defending champions Australia as favourites despite England having beaten them 2-0 in their own backyard in the recently-concluded three-match series. England defeated the Aussies by 8 runs in the first game before pulling off another victory by the same margin in the next game. The third T20I was a no-result after the game was called off due to rain. While there were close contests, England showcased why they themselves will remain one of the firm favourites to win the elusive trophy this year. However, Buttler insisted home advantage will be crucial for Australia. "I think history tells you that generally, the host nations are slight favourites in big tournaments," the England captain said in a presser ahead of the start of the tournament. "Lots of people have played in Australia in those conditions but of course no one is going to know the conditions or be as accustomed to them as the Australian team and the reigning champions as well," he added. Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah is just 28, his career is more important than the T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma England enjoyed a great campaign in the T20 World Cup last year under former skipper Eoin Morgan. They were unbeaten in the group stages and went on to defeat South Africa in the Super 12 before getting knocked out after losing the semi-final against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi. Buttler, who will be leading England for the first time in a T20 World Cup, agreed T20 is an unpredictable format and even a single player can take the game away from the opposition on his day. The England skipper said they have had a good preparation and are looking forward to getting off to a good start in the tournament. Also Read: 'Grow up': Ex-India cricketer slams Mitchell Starc for using Deepti Sharma's name in warning Jos Buttler "In T20 cricket, one person can take the game away from you," said Buttler. "We've had good preparation. We look forward to this tournament and don't try and read too much into past tournaments or things. We try and learn and get better and improve every day, and look forward to starting this competition in the next week," he added.

No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022

Namibia pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the T20 World Cup 2022 on the opening day of the tournament as they stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong on Sunday (October 16). Ranked 14th in the ICC T20I team rankings, Namibia produced an excellent all-round performance to outclass mighty Sri Lanka by 55 runs in the first round of Group A.

Namibia rode on a brilliant all-round performance from Jan Frylinck, who played a great cameo of 28-ball 44 down the order before picking up a couple of wickets with the ball to power his team to a comprehensive victory. Asked to bat first, Namibia posted a strong total of 163 runs on the board before their bowlers comfortably defended the total.

Reacting to his team's stunning win against the Asia Cup champions, Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus called it a historic day for Namibian cricket. Namibia had qualified for the T20 World Cup last year, finishing second behind Sri Lanka in a group that also has&nbsp;Ireland and Netherlands. They have since been on the rise and have given a great account of their skills and talent in the shortest format.

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"Incredible journey, last year was a special experience for us. We've started a great win, but lot of work to do throughout this tournament still. It's been a historic day for us. The opening day has been quite special but we want to kick on from here and qualify for the Super 12 stage," said Namibia skipper Erasmus.

However, he insisted the team has a long way to go if they are to qualify for the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup. With the big win against Sri Lanka, Namibia are well placed to make it to the next round but will be wary of slip-ups in their remaining two games against UAE and Netherlands.

"We understand the bigger picture as well. Credit goes to Pierre (de Bruyn) the way he has installed coaching to this team, one that's a winning culture and one that sticks together. With the limited resources, I don't think there's anyone else that could run such a tight ship," said Erasmus crediting the coaching staff for the team's good show.

Namibia were 93/6 at one stage during their innings with Sri Lankan bowlers looking in control. However, Frylinck (44) combined with JJ Smit, who scored an unbeaten 31 off just 16 balls to propel the Erasmus-led side to a fighting total of 163 runs.

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In reply, the Sri Lankan batting line-up fell like a pack of cards as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Some disciplined bowling from the Namibian pacers kept Sri Lanka on the toes as the Asia Cup champions were skittled out for 108 runs in 19 overs. Sri Lanka have two games remaining against UAE and Netherlands, respectively and can't afford another slip-up in the tournament.

Namibia pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the T20 World Cup 2022 on the opening day of the tournament as they stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong on Sunday (October 16).

Namibia pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the T20 World Cup 2022 on the opening day of the tournament as they stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong on Sunday (October 16). Ranked 14th in the ICC T20I team rankings, Namibia produced an excellent all-round performance to outclass mighty Sri Lanka by 55 runs in the first round of Group A. Namibia rode on a brilliant all-round performance from Jan Frylinck, who played a great cameo of 28-ball 44 down the order before picking up a couple of wickets with the ball to power his team to a comprehensive victory. Asked to bat first, Namibia posted a strong total of 163 runs on the board before their bowlers comfortably defended the total. Reacting to his team's stunning win against the Asia Cup champions, Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus called it a historic day for Namibian cricket. Namibia had qualified for the T20 World Cup last year, finishing second behind Sri Lanka in a group that also has Ireland and Netherlands. They have since been on the rise and have given a great account of their skills and talent in the shortest format. Also Read: Namibia stun Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2022, inflict 55-run defeat "Incredible journey, last year was a special experience for us. We've started a great win, but lot of work to do throughout this tournament still. It's been a historic day for us. The opening day has been quite special but we want to kick on from here and qualify for the Super 12 stage," said Namibia skipper Erasmus. However, he insisted the team has a long way to go if they are to qualify for the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup. With the big win against Sri Lanka, Namibia are well placed to make it to the next round but will be wary of slip-ups in their remaining two games against UAE and Netherlands. "We understand the bigger picture as well. Credit goes to Pierre (de Bruyn) the way he has installed coaching to this team, one that's a winning culture and one that sticks together. With the limited resources, I don't think there's anyone else that could run such a tight ship," said Erasmus crediting the coaching staff for the team's good show. Namibia were 93/6 at one stage during their innings with Sri Lankan bowlers looking in control. However, Frylinck (44) combined with JJ Smit, who scored an unbeaten 31 off just 16 balls to propel the Erasmus-led side to a fighting total of 163 runs. Also Read: WATCH - Dream come true moment for 11-year-old as he bowls to India captain Rohit Sharma in nets In reply, the Sri Lankan batting line-up fell like a pack of cards as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Some disciplined bowling from the Namibian pacers kept Sri Lanka on the toes as the Asia Cup champions were skittled out for 108 runs in 19 overs. Sri Lanka have two games remaining against UAE and Netherlands, respectively and can't afford another slip-up in the tournament.

Historic day for us, says Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus after thrashing Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup

Netherlands avoided a major scare to register a three-wicket win over a spirited UAE in a humdinger of a match at the Simonds Stadium, Geelong on Sunday.&nbsp;

UAE suffered a batting collapse in the final over of its innings to end with just 111 runs, setting a paltry total for the Netherlands. Bas de Leede starred with the ball to help restrict UAE.&nbsp;

Chasing a paltry total of 111 runs the Dutch pair of Max ODowd and Vikramjit Singh walked out at the crease in an attempt to give the Netherlands their first victory of the T20 World Cup. The innings started on an aggressive note with Vikramjit smashing two boundaries in the very first over.&nbsp;

However, the first over was nowhere to indicate what was about to come as the UAE bowling department bowled magnificently to dismiss Vikramjit in the second over and Max ODowd in the sixth over to send both the openers packing within the powerplay.&nbsp;

Vikramjit was dismissed by Basil Hameed 10(7) while ODowd 23(18) saw his timber being disturbed by Junaid Siddique. The Netherlands ended their powerplay at 42-2. Things got worse for the Dutch team as they kept losing wickets, with batters getting starts but failing to convert them into match-winning knocks.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-sri-lankas-shock-defeat-against-namibia-could-mean-for-india-in-t20-world-cup-2022-525850">Explained: What Sri Lanka's shock defeat against Namibia could mean for India in T20 World Cup 2022?</a>

Bas de Leede 14(18) was dismissed by Karthik Meiyappan in the ninth over, courtesy of a brilliant catch at cover by UAE captain CP Rizwan. The tight bowling from the UAE bowlers saw the Netherlands batter failing to score freely and send the ball over the ropes as the Dutch team scored 62/3 at the end of the 10 overs. Colin Ackermann 17(19) was dismissed by Aayan Afzal Khan to keep UAE in the game, instilling belief and enthusiasm in the bowlers despite the low total.&nbsp;

Junaid bowled with fire as the pacer came back in the 14th over to pick up the two most experienced batters in the Dutch lineup. He got rid of Tom Cooper and Roelof van der Merwe bowling wicket to wicket not erring with his line and length. The UAE team could sniff the victory with the Netherlands six down but captain Scott Edwards and Tim Pringle stitched a crucial match-winning partnership of 27 runs for the seventh wicket to take the team just shy of a win.&nbsp;

The final overs saw lots of ebbs and flows but the Dutch team held their nerve to secure a three-wicket win over a spirited UAE who bowled their hearts out, making a match of almost nothing. Max ODowd was the highest scorer for the Netherlands scoring 23 of 18 balls. Junaid Siddique bowled brilliantly for UAE picking up three wickets for 24 runs.&nbsp;

Opting to bat first the UAE batter struggled to score against the seaming new ball and could manage just six runs off the first three overs. Muhammad Waseem finally broke the shackles as he smashed two sixes in the fourth over to provide the inning with much-needed impetus.&nbsp;

UAE ended their powerplay with 31 for no loss due to a lack of intent from the batters. Chirag Suri 12(20) was dismissed by van der Merwe to give the Netherlands its first wicket. UAE ended with 57-1 after 10 overs. The UAE batters never got going as the Dutch bowlers kept things tight.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-day-for-us-namibia-captain-gerhard-erasmus-reacts-after-thrashing-sri-lanka-in-t20-world-cup-525840">Historic day for us: Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus reacts after thrashing Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup</a>

Their score read 85-2 after 15 overs, scoring at less than run a ball. With wickets in hand, it seemed that the team would go all out in the end but the UAE batting lineup suffered a major collapse as the team lost its last eight wickets for just 20 runs, ending with 111 runs. Bas de Leede ended with 3/19 off his three overs while Muhammad Waseem top-scored for UAE with 41 off 47 balls.&nbsp;

Brief Scores: Netherlands 112/7 (Max ODowd 23, Colin Ackermann 17; Junaid Siddique 3/24) vs UAE 111/8 (Muhammad Waseem 41, Vriitya Aravind 18; Bas de Leede) (ANI)

Netherlands avoided a major scare to register a three-wicket win over a spirited UAE in a humdinger of a match at the Simonds Stadium, Geelong on Sunday. UAE suffered a batting collapse in the final over of its innings to end with just 111 runs, setting a paltry total for the Netherlands.

Netherlands avoided a major scare to register a three-wicket win over a spirited UAE in a humdinger of a match at the Simonds Stadium, Geelong on Sunday. UAE suffered a batting collapse in the final over of its innings to end with just 111 runs, setting a paltry total for the Netherlands. Bas de Leede starred with the ball to help restrict UAE. Chasing a paltry total of 111 runs the Dutch pair of Max ODowd and Vikramjit Singh walked out at the crease in an attempt to give the Netherlands their first victory of the T20 World Cup. The innings started on an aggressive note with Vikramjit smashing two boundaries in the very first over. However, the first over was nowhere to indicate what was about to come as the UAE bowling department bowled magnificently to dismiss Vikramjit in the second over and Max ODowd in the sixth over to send both the openers packing within the powerplay. Vikramjit was dismissed by Basil Hameed 10(7) while ODowd 23(18) saw his timber being disturbed by Junaid Siddique. The Netherlands ended their powerplay at 42-2. Things got worse for the Dutch team as they kept losing wickets, with batters getting starts but failing to convert them into match-winning knocks. Also Read: Explained: What Sri Lanka's shock defeat against Namibia could mean for India in T20 World Cup 2022? Bas de Leede 14(18) was dismissed by Karthik Meiyappan in the ninth over, courtesy of a brilliant catch at cover by UAE captain CP Rizwan. The tight bowling from the UAE bowlers saw the Netherlands batter failing to score freely and send the ball over the ropes as the Dutch team scored 62/3 at the end of the 10 overs. Colin Ackermann 17(19) was dismissed by Aayan Afzal Khan to keep UAE in the game, instilling belief and enthusiasm in the bowlers despite the low total. Junaid bowled with fire as the pacer came back in the 14th over to pick up the two most experienced batters in the Dutch lineup. He got rid of Tom Cooper and Roelof van der Merwe bowling wicket to wicket not erring with his line and length. The UAE team could sniff the victory with the Netherlands six down but captain Scott Edwards and Tim Pringle stitched a crucial match-winning partnership of 27 runs for the seventh wicket to take the team just shy of a win. The final overs saw lots of ebbs and flows but the Dutch team held their nerve to secure a three-wicket win over a spirited UAE who bowled their hearts out, making a match of almost nothing. Max ODowd was the highest scorer for the Netherlands scoring 23 of 18 balls. Junaid Siddique bowled brilliantly for UAE picking up three wickets for 24 runs. Opting to bat first the UAE batter struggled to score against the seaming new ball and could manage just six runs off the first three overs. Muhammad Waseem finally broke the shackles as he smashed two sixes in the fourth over to provide the inning with much-needed impetus. UAE ended their powerplay with 31 for no loss due to a lack of intent from the batters. Chirag Suri 12(20) was dismissed by van der Merwe to give the Netherlands its first wicket. UAE ended with 57-1 after 10 overs. The UAE batters never got going as the Dutch bowlers kept things tight. Also Read: Historic day for us: Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus reacts after thrashing Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup Their score read 85-2 after 15 overs, scoring at less than run a ball. With wickets in hand, it seemed that the team would go all out in the end but the UAE batting lineup suffered a major collapse as the team lost its last eight wickets for just 20 runs, ending with 111 runs. Bas de Leede ended with 3/19 off his three overs while Muhammad Waseem top-scored for UAE with 41 off 47 balls. Brief Scores: Netherlands 112/7 (Max ODowd 23, Colin Ackermann 17; Junaid Siddique 3/24) vs UAE 111/8 (Muhammad Waseem 41, Vriitya Aravind 18; Bas de Leede) (ANI)

ICC T20 World Cup: Netherlands survive major scare to beat UAE by 3 wickets in opening game

Namibia pulled off a shock win over Sri Lanka in their opening game in the qualifiers as T20 World Cup 2022 got underway in Australia on Sunday (October 16). In one of the upsets of the tournament, 14th-ranked Namibia were a no-match to Sri Lanka, who are the reigning Asia Cup champions and were outright favourites ahead of the clash.

Namibia and Sri Lanka are among eight teams battling it out in the qualifiers for the remaining four spots in the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup. While Namibia and Sri Lanka are part of Group A along with UAE and Netherlands, Group B consists of West Indies, Scotland, Zimbabwe and Ireland.

While West Indies and Sri Lanka were clear favourites to top their respective groups, Namibia's shocking win over Sri Lanka on Sunday has blown Group A wide open. Namibia produced an excellent all-round performance at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong to post a strong total of 163 runs on the board before bundling out the Asia Cup champions for a paltry 108 runs to secure a thumping 55-run win.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-day-for-us-namibia-captain-gerhard-erasmus-reacts-after-thrashing-sri-lanka-in-t20-world-cup-525840">Historic day for us: Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus reacts after thrashing Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup</a>

What can Sri Lanka's shock defeat mean for Rohit Sharma-led India?

Namibia's surprising victory over Sri Lanka can complicate things for the Indian team and have huge ramifications on the entire tournament. As per the ICC rules, the top two teams from the two qualifying groups will progress into the Super 12 stage.

While the table toppers from Group B and the second-ranked team from Group A will join India's Group 2 in the Super 12 stage, the table toppers from Group A and the second-ranked team from Group B will join Group 1 in the Super 12.

Sri Lanka's defeat means the Asia Cup champions might not finish on top in Group A with significant chances of them finishing second behind Namibia, who are well-placed to top the group. West Indies, on the other hand, remain favourites to Group B and might join Sri Lanka in the Group 2 of Super 12.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/namibia-pull-off-stunning-55-run-win-against-asia-cup-champions-sri-lanka-in-t20-world-cup-2022-525829">&nbsp;Namibia stun Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2022, inflict 55-run defeat</a>

India's group in the Super 12 already consists of the likes of Pakistan, South Africa and Bangladesh. The arrival of the likes of West Indies and Sri Lanka can further complicate matters for the Men in Blue as the battle for the top two spots will be an intense one between the six teams in Group 2.

Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka had recently defeated India in the recently-concluded Asia Cup in the UAE while South Africa and West Indies possess the ability to stun the best of the teams on their day.

Namibia pulled off a shock win over Sri Lanka in their opening game in the qualifiers as T20 World Cup 2022 got underway in Australia on Sunday (October 16). In one of the upsets of the tournament, 14th-ranked Namibia were a no-match to Sri Lanka, who are the reigning Asia Cup champions and were outright favourites ahead of the clash.

Namibia pulled off a shock win over Sri Lanka in their opening game in the qualifiers as T20 World Cup 2022 got underway in Australia on Sunday (October 16). In one of the upsets of the tournament, 14th-ranked Namibia were a no-match to Sri Lanka, who are the reigning Asia Cup champions and were outright favourites ahead of the clash. Namibia and Sri Lanka are among eight teams battling it out in the qualifiers for the remaining four spots in the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup. While Namibia and Sri Lanka are part of Group A along with UAE and Netherlands, Group B consists of West Indies, Scotland, Zimbabwe and Ireland. While West Indies and Sri Lanka were clear favourites to top their respective groups, Namibia's shocking win over Sri Lanka on Sunday has blown Group A wide open. Namibia produced an excellent all-round performance at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong to post a strong total of 163 runs on the board before bundling out the Asia Cup champions for a paltry 108 runs to secure a thumping 55-run win. Also Read: Historic day for us: Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus reacts after thrashing Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup What can Sri Lanka's shock defeat mean for Rohit Sharma-led India? Namibia's surprising victory over Sri Lanka can complicate things for the Indian team and have huge ramifications on the entire tournament. As per the ICC rules, the top two teams from the two qualifying groups will progress into the Super 12 stage. While the table toppers from Group B and the second-ranked team from Group A will join India's Group 2 in the Super 12 stage, the table toppers from Group A and the second-ranked team from Group B will join Group 1 in the Super 12. Sri Lanka's defeat means the Asia Cup champions might not finish on top in Group A with significant chances of them finishing second behind Namibia, who are well-placed to top the group. West Indies, on the other hand, remain favourites to Group B and might join Sri Lanka in the Group 2 of Super 12. Also Read: Namibia stun Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2022, inflict 55-run defeat India's group in the Super 12 already consists of the likes of Pakistan, South Africa and Bangladesh. The arrival of the likes of West Indies and Sri Lanka can further complicate matters for the Men in Blue as the battle for the top two spots will be an intense one between the six teams in Group 2. Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka had recently defeated India in the recently-concluded Asia Cup in the UAE while South Africa and West Indies possess the ability to stun the best of the teams on their day.

Explained: What Sri Lanka's shock defeat against Namibia could mean for India in T20 World Cup 2022?

14th-ranked Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka, beating them by a comfortable margin of 55 runs to get off to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 16). Namibia were far from favourites heading into the clash against the Lankans, but batted brilliantly and followed it up with an exceptional bowling performance to clinch a comprehensive victory.

Namibia, an associate nation, had given an account of their talent and skill in the T20 World Cup last year. While they were tagged as minnows against Sri Lanka, the Gerhard Erasmus-led side always appeared a confident unit in their opener against Dasun Shanaka's men at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong on Sunday.

Namibia lost the toss and were asked to bat first and got off to a stuttering start. They lost openers Michael van Lingen (3) and Divan la Cock (9) cheaply and were reduced to 16/2 inside the first three overs as Sri Lanka looked in cruise control. However, the Namibia batters staged a valiant fightback and finished off well to post a seemingly strong total of 163 runs on the board.

Jan Frylinck top-scored with a quickfire 44 off 28 balls while JJ Smit played a sensational cameo of 16-ball 31 down the order. The likes of Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton (20), Stephan Baard (26) and skipper Erasmus (20) also made vital contributions as the Namibia batters tackled the Sri Lankan bowlers well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-dream-come-true-moment-for-11-year-old-as-he-bowls-to-india-captain-rohit-sharma-in-nets-525824">WATCH -&nbsp;Dream come true moment for 11-year-old as he bowls to India captain Rohit Sharma in nets</a>&nbsp;

After a valiant batting performance, the Namibian bowlers taught Sri Lanka how to bowl on the pitch by utilising the conditions well. Unlike Sri Lanka's short ball barrage, the Namibian pacers kept it full and let the ball do the talking throughout Sri Lanka's run-chase as they bundled out the Asia Cup champions for a paltry 108.

David Wiese and Bernard Scholtz were the pick of the bowlers for Namibia as they picked up a couple of wickets apiece while Frylinck produced a brilliant all-round performance as he followed up his 28-ball 44 with an exceptional spell of 2/26 in his four overs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-as-accustomed-as-them-england-captain-jos-buttler-picks-his-favourites-for-t20-world-cup-2022-525812">No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

In what was a cracking first day of the tournament, Namibia pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the T20 World Cup 2022. They have now given a great account of the skills at their disposal and will be among the deemed favourites to make it to the Super 12 from Group A.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will have to register a big win to get their net run rate back on track after their shocking defeat on Sunday. Sri Lanka have games remaining against UAE and Netherlands and can't afford any further slip-ups to make it to the next round.

14th-ranked Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka, beating them by a comfortable margin of 55 runs to get off to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 16).

14th-ranked Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka, beating them by a comfortable margin of 55 runs to get off to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 16). Namibia were far from favourites heading into the clash against the Lankans, but batted brilliantly and followed it up with an exceptional bowling performance to clinch a comprehensive victory. Namibia, an associate nation, had given an account of their talent and skill in the T20 World Cup last year. While they were tagged as minnows against Sri Lanka, the Gerhard Erasmus-led side always appeared a confident unit in their opener against Dasun Shanaka's men at the Simonds Stadium in Geelong on Sunday. Namibia lost the toss and were asked to bat first and got off to a stuttering start. They lost openers Michael van Lingen (3) and Divan la Cock (9) cheaply and were reduced to 16/2 inside the first three overs as Sri Lanka looked in cruise control. However, the Namibia batters staged a valiant fightback and finished off well to post a seemingly strong total of 163 runs on the board. Jan Frylinck top-scored with a quickfire 44 off 28 balls while JJ Smit played a sensational cameo of 16-ball 31 down the order. The likes of Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton (20), Stephan Baard (26) and skipper Erasmus (20) also made vital contributions as the Namibia batters tackled the Sri Lankan bowlers well. Also Read: WATCH - Dream come true moment for 11-year-old as he bowls to India captain Rohit Sharma in nets After a valiant batting performance, the Namibian bowlers taught Sri Lanka how to bowl on the pitch by utilising the conditions well. Unlike Sri Lanka's short ball barrage, the Namibian pacers kept it full and let the ball do the talking throughout Sri Lanka's run-chase as they bundled out the Asia Cup champions for a paltry 108. David Wiese and Bernard Scholtz were the pick of the bowlers for Namibia as they picked up a couple of wickets apiece while Frylinck produced a brilliant all-round performance as he followed up his 28-ball 44 with an exceptional spell of 2/26 in his four overs. Also Read: No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022 In what was a cracking first day of the tournament, Namibia pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the T20 World Cup 2022. They have now given a great account of the skills at their disposal and will be among the deemed favourites to make it to the Super 12 from Group A. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will have to register a big win to get their net run rate back on track after their shocking defeat on Sunday. Sri Lanka have games remaining against UAE and Netherlands and can't afford any further slip-ups to make it to the next round.

Namibia stun Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2022, inflict 55-run defeat

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made 11-year-old Durshil Sharma's day as he invited the young prodigious talent to train with the Indian team after noticing him at the stadium. The Indian team is currently training in Brisbane ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022.

Sharma, a left-arm fast bowler, managed to leave an impression on Rohit while training at the same stadium where the Indian team was practising. The Indian skipper spotted the young kid and decided to call him into the Indian team's dressing room. Rohit also invited him to bowl against him in the nets.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to their official Twitter handle to share a video of Drushil training with the Indian team and narrating his experience of spending the day with some of his favourite cricketers. The 11-year-old said yorker and outswinger were his favourite deliveries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-set-to-return-as-cab-president-as-bcci-stint-nears-end-525802">Sourav Ganguly set to return as CAB president as BCCI stint nears end</a>

Drushil also spoke to Indian captain Rohit, who asked him if he would like to travel to India in the future and play for the national team. The 11-year-old said his dream is to become a professional cricketer but he has no idea when he will get to travel to India.

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𝗗𝗢 𝗡𝗢𝗧 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦! 
 
When a 11-year-old impressed <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> with his smooth action! 
 
A fascinating story of Drushil Chauhan who caught the eye of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain &amp; got invited to the nets and the Indian dressing room. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 
 
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The Indian cricket team touched down in Australia earlier this month and have since been fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022. India have already played two warm-up matches against Western Australia XI and will lock horns with Australia and New Zealand in two more practice matches next week.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-as-accustomed-as-them-england-captain-jos-buttler-picks-his-favourites-for-t20-world-cup-2022-525812">No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23. The Men in Blue are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja in the tournament this year but will be hopeful of giving their best against Pakistan to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made 11-year-old Durshil Sharma's day as he invited the young prodigious talent to train with the Indian team after noticing him at the stadium.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made 11-year-old Durshil Sharma's day as he invited the young prodigious talent to train with the Indian team after noticing him at the stadium. The Indian team is currently training in Brisbane ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022. Sharma, a left-arm fast bowler, managed to leave an impression on Rohit while training at the same stadium where the Indian team was practising. The Indian skipper spotted the young kid and decided to call him into the Indian team's dressing room. Rohit also invited him to bowl against him in the nets. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to their official Twitter handle to share a video of Drushil training with the Indian team and narrating his experience of spending the day with some of his favourite cricketers. The 11-year-old said yorker and outswinger were his favourite deliveries. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly set to return as CAB president as BCCI stint nears end Drushil also spoke to Indian captain Rohit, who asked him if he would like to travel to India in the future and play for the national team. The 11-year-old said his dream is to become a professional cricketer but he has no idea when he will get to travel to India. 𝗗𝗢 𝗡𝗢𝗧 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦! When a 11-year-old impressed @ImRo45 with his smooth action! A fascinating story of Drushil Chauhan who caught the eye of #TeamIndia Captain & got invited to the nets and the Indian dressing room. #T20WorldCup Watch https://t.co/CbDLMiOaQO — BCCI (@BCCI) October 16, 2022 × The Indian cricket team touched down in Australia earlier this month and have since been fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022. India have already played two warm-up matches against Western Australia XI and will lock horns with Australia and New Zealand in two more practice matches next week. Also Read: No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022 India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23. The Men in Blue are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja in the tournament this year but will be hopeful of giving their best against Pakistan to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

WATCH: Dream come true moment for 11-year-old as he bowls to India captain Rohit Sharma in nets

Deepak Chahar has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 due to a back injury. The pacer, who was part of India's stand-by list for the World Cup, was in contention to make it to the main squad after Jasprit Bumrah was sidelined from the tournament due to an injury. However, Chahar will not travel to Australia for the showpiece event.

In his absence, BCCI is all set to send three pacers as reinforcements for the Indian squad. Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur will travel to Australia and join the rest of the Indian contingent down under. Shami was originally part of India's stand-by list while Siraj and Shardul are the new inclusions.

Shami remains the frontrunner to take Bumrah's spot in the main 15-man squad now that Chahar is no more in the fray. However, he faces serious competition from Siraj, who impressed in the recently-concluded ODI series against South Africa at home. While one of them will make it to the main squad, the other two will be part of the reserves.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-disappointed-kuldeep-yadav-reacts-after-not-being-part-of-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-524688">'I am not disappointed' - Kuldeep Yadav reacts after not being part of India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

"Deepak will take some time to get fit. His back issue has flared up again. His ankle is fine and there wasn't any problem there. So BCCI is sending three reinforcements. Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI.

The Indan selectors do not have much time to name the official replacement for Bumrah as October 15 is the deadline to announce the final changes in the squad. The T20 World Cup s set to get underway on October 16 with India&nbsp;opening their&nbsp;campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23.

The Indian squad is already in Perth, Australia where they have been fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup. India recently defeated Western Australia XI in a warm-up match and are scheduled to play one more practice match against the same team in Perth before taking on New Zealand and Australia in two more warm-up matches.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/david-warner-to-virat-kohli-top-five-contenders-to-finish-as-highest-run-getters-at-t20-world-cup-2022-524563">David Warner to Virat Kohli: Top five contenders to finish as highest run-getter&nbsp;at T20 World Cup 2022</a>

In the absence of Bumrah, expectations will be high from Shami if he is roped into the squad as the official replacement for the injured pacer. Shami has the experience and the skills to be the strike bowler for the Men in Blue in the tournament, however, he has not played a T20I for India since the T20 World Cup last year which remains a huge concern for the team.

Deepak Chahar has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 due to a back injury. The pacer, who was part of India's stand-by list for the World Cup, was in contention to make it to the main squad after Jasprit Bumrah was sidelined from the tournament due to an injury.

Deepak Chahar has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 due to a back injury. The pacer, who was part of India's stand-by list for the World Cup, was in contention to make it to the main squad after Jasprit Bumrah was sidelined from the tournament due to an injury. However, Chahar will not travel to Australia for the showpiece event. In his absence, BCCI is all set to send three pacers as reinforcements for the Indian squad. Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur will travel to Australia and join the rest of the Indian contingent down under. Shami was originally part of India's stand-by list while Siraj and Shardul are the new inclusions. Shami remains the frontrunner to take Bumrah's spot in the main 15-man squad now that Chahar is no more in the fray. However, he faces serious competition from Siraj, who impressed in the recently-concluded ODI series against South Africa at home. While one of them will make it to the main squad, the other two will be part of the reserves. Also Read: 'I am not disappointed' - Kuldeep Yadav reacts after not being part of India's T20 World Cup squad "Deepak will take some time to get fit. His back issue has flared up again. His ankle is fine and there wasn't any problem there. So BCCI is sending three reinforcements. Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI. The Indan selectors do not have much time to name the official replacement for Bumrah as October 15 is the deadline to announce the final changes in the squad. The T20 World Cup s set to get underway on October 16 with India opening their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23. The Indian squad is already in Perth, Australia where they have been fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup. India recently defeated Western Australia XI in a warm-up match and are scheduled to play one more practice match against the same team in Perth before taking on New Zealand and Australia in two more warm-up matches. Also Read: David Warner to Virat Kohli: Top five contenders to finish as highest run-getter at T20 World Cup 2022 In the absence of Bumrah, expectations will be high from Shami if he is roped into the squad as the official replacement for the injured pacer. Shami has the experience and the skills to be the strike bowler for the Men in Blue in the tournament, however, he has not played a T20I for India since the T20 World Cup last year which remains a huge concern for the team.

Shardul Thakur, Md. Shami and Md. Siraj to leave for Australia; Deepak Chahar out of T20 World Cup - Report

Mohammed Shami is reportedly the frontrunner to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, however, BCCI is yet to name an official replacement for the injured pacer. Bumrah was ruled out of the T20 World Cup earlier this week as the Indian squad travelled to Australia without its 15th member.

Shami is the favourite to replace Bumrah considering his experience and skills, however, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Mohammed Siraj is 'seriously pushing' the senior pacer for the spot after his heroics in the second ODI against South Africa on Sunday.

Shami, who had recently recovered from COVID-19, is currently at the NCA where he has to prove his fitness before he can be considered for selection in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2022. Siraj, on the other hand, is in action for Shikhar Dhawan-led India in their ongoing ODI series against South Africa at home.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/md-shami-or-deepak-chahar-former-india-keeper-picks-jasprit-bumrahs-replacement-for-t20-wc-2022-523795">Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Former India keeper picks Bumrah's replacement for T20 WC 2022</a>

Siraj bowled well in the second ODI against the visitors in Ranchi as he finished with figures of 3/38. The right-arm pacer bowled four overs in the death and impressed in what could be an audition for a spot in India's T20 World Cup side. Manjrekar was left impressed with the pacer's performance and took to Twitter to share his verdict.

"Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad," Manjrekar wrote in a tweet.

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Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad.
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Siraj was originally roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20I squad for the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against South Africa but didn't get a game. He has now been given opportunities in ODIs and has done well to build a case for selection in the T20 World Cup squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-finished-the-hype-around-india-pakistan-rivalry-because-he-kept-winning-against-us-shahid-afridi-523764">MS Dhoni finished the hype around India-Pakistan rivalry because he kept winning against us: Shahid Afridi</a>

If he can continue his fine form in the third and final ODI against South Africa next week, the Indian selectors will face major selection headache when picking Bumrah's replacement between him and Shami. Shami has not played a T20I game for India for over a year as he last featured in the shortest format for the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup last year.

However, he remains ahead in the pecking order considering his overall experience. The deadline to name a replacement is October 15 and it remans to be seen who will make the cut as Bumrah's replacement in India's squad.

Mohammed Shami is reportedly the frontrunner to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, however, BCCI is yet to name an official replacement for the injured pacer.

Mohammed Shami is reportedly the frontrunner to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, however, BCCI is yet to name an official replacement for the injured pacer. Bumrah was ruled out of the T20 World Cup earlier this week as the Indian squad travelled to Australia without its 15th member. Shami is the favourite to replace Bumrah considering his experience and skills, however, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Mohammed Siraj is 'seriously pushing' the senior pacer for the spot after his heroics in the second ODI against South Africa on Sunday. Shami, who had recently recovered from COVID-19, is currently at the NCA where he has to prove his fitness before he can be considered for selection in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2022. Siraj, on the other hand, is in action for Shikhar Dhawan-led India in their ongoing ODI series against South Africa at home. Also Read: Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Former India keeper picks Bumrah's replacement for T20 WC 2022 Siraj bowled well in the second ODI against the visitors in Ranchi as he finished with figures of 3/38. The right-arm pacer bowled four overs in the death and impressed in what could be an audition for a spot in India's T20 World Cup side. Manjrekar was left impressed with the pacer's performance and took to Twitter to share his verdict. "Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad," Manjrekar wrote in a tweet. Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad. — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 9, 2022 × Siraj was originally roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20I squad for the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against South Africa but didn't get a game. He has now been given opportunities in ODIs and has done well to build a case for selection in the T20 World Cup squad. Also Read: MS Dhoni finished the hype around India-Pakistan rivalry because he kept winning against us: Shahid Afridi If he can continue his fine form in the third and final ODI against South Africa next week, the Indian selectors will face major selection headache when picking Bumrah's replacement between him and Shami. Shami has not played a T20I game for India for over a year as he last featured in the shortest format for the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup last year. However, he remains ahead in the pecking order considering his overall experience. The deadline to name a replacement is October 15 and it remans to be seen who will make the cut as Bumrah's replacement in India's squad.

'Siraj seriously pushing Shami': Sanjay Manjrekar on Jasprit Bumrah's spot in India's T20 World Cup squad

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team is one of the first teams to have touched down in Australia to begin their preparations ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. India are currently training in Perth ahead of their warm-up matches against Australia and New Zealand.

India will begin their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan after the two warm-up matches. Ahead of the start of the tournament, the Indian batters had their first practice session in Perth on Saturday. Star batter Suryakumar Yadav also enjoyed his first net session and revealed he had butterflies ahead of his first net session Down Under.

"I was really looking forward to come here and attend the first practice session, go on the ground, have a walk and run, and feel how it is like here. The first net session was also amazing. Just wanted to feel how the pace of the wicket is, how the bounce is," said Suryakumar in a video shared by the BCCI.

"Obviously, starting a little slow. There were butterflies and there was excitement, at the same time, you also need to see how you bring yourself into this atmosphere. I am excited but at the same time, it is important to follow your routines," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-play-in-ipl-if-you-feel-pressure-kapil-devs-blunt-response-on-how-to-deal-with-pressure-in-cricket-523723">Don't play in IPL If you feel pressure: Kapil Dev's blunt response on how to deal with pressure in cricket</a>

World no.2 in the T20I rankings for batters at present, Suryakumar has been one of India's best performers with the bat in T20Is over the last few months. He has been a lynchpin in the middle order and has produced numerous match-winning performances for the team.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> batter <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> had his first nets session in Australia. Hear in to what he has to say on the conditions down under and preparations going into the <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/HaI6hjVNsu">pic.twitter.com/HaI6hjVNsu</a>
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Suryakumar will have to play a key role if India are to fancy their chances in the T20 World Cup this year. The Men in Blue have headed to Australia without&nbsp;two of their key players in the form of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both out of the tournament due to their respective injuries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-can-field-4-5-international-teams-south-africas-keshav-maharaj-hails-indias-extraordinary-talent-pool-523629">They can field 4-5 international teams: South Africa's Keshav Maharaj hails India's extraordinary talent pool</a>

While Axar Patel has replaced injured Jadeja in the squad, India are yet to name a replacement for Bumrah, who will be missing the T20 World Cup due to a back injury. Mohammed Shami is reportedly the rontrunner to replace Bumrah and might join the Indian squad in Australia next week.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team is one of the first teams to have touched down in Australia to begin their preparations ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team is one of the first teams to have touched down in Australia to begin their preparations ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. India are currently training in Perth ahead of their warm-up matches against Australia and New Zealand. India will begin their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan after the two warm-up matches. Ahead of the start of the tournament, the Indian batters had their first practice session in Perth on Saturday. Star batter Suryakumar Yadav also enjoyed his first net session and revealed he had butterflies ahead of his first net session Down Under. "I was really looking forward to come here and attend the first practice session, go on the ground, have a walk and run, and feel how it is like here. The first net session was also amazing. Just wanted to feel how the pace of the wicket is, how the bounce is," said Suryakumar in a video shared by the BCCI. "Obviously, starting a little slow. There were butterflies and there was excitement, at the same time, you also need to see how you bring yourself into this atmosphere. I am excited but at the same time, it is important to follow your routines," he added. Also Read: Don't play in IPL If you feel pressure: Kapil Dev's blunt response on how to deal with pressure in cricket World no.2 in the T20I rankings for batters at present, Suryakumar has been one of India's best performers with the bat in T20Is over the last few months. He has been a lynchpin in the middle order and has produced numerous match-winning performances for the team. #TeamIndia batter @surya_14kumar had his first nets session in Australia. Hear in to what he has to say on the conditions down under and preparations going into the @T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/HaI6hjVNsu — BCCI (@BCCI) October 9, 2022 × Suryakumar will have to play a key role if India are to fancy their chances in the T20 World Cup this year. The Men in Blue have headed to Australia without two of their key players in the form of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both out of the tournament due to their respective injuries. Also Read: They can field 4-5 international teams: South Africa's Keshav Maharaj hails India's extraordinary talent pool While Axar Patel has replaced injured Jadeja in the squad, India are yet to name a replacement for Bumrah, who will be missing the T20 World Cup due to a back injury. Mohammed Shami is reportedly the rontrunner to replace Bumrah and might join the Indian squad in Australia next week.

'There were butterfilies': Suryakumar Yadav on his first practice session in Australia ahead of T20 WC 2022

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's form has been a major concern for the Indian team heading into the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next month. The senior fast bowler has struggled in the death overs and has failed to get his line and length right under pressure more often than not in the last few matches.

However, Australia legend Matthew Hayden has played down the suggestions of Bhuvneshwar being out of form and said the Indian pacer just looks tired at present. The former Aussie opener believes the fast bowler will be fine after he is given a break during India's upcoming home series against South Africa.

Bhuvneshwar has been playing continuous cricket for a while now and had led the Indian pace attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel in the Asia Cup 2022. He also featured in the recently-concluded T20I series against Australia where his death bowling woes continued.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricketer-taniya-bhatia-claims-she-was-robbed-at-team-hotel-in-london-slams-ecb-for-lack-of-security-519830">Indian cricketer Taniya Bhatia claims she was robbed at team hotel in London, slams ECB for lack of security</a>

While he has bowled well with the new ball, he has not been at his best in the death overs for a while now. After being taken&nbsp;for runs in the death overs in the games against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, Bhuvneshwar ended up conceding 39 runs in just three overs in the 3rd T20I between India and Australia on Sunday.

"I think he looks tired and fast bowlers are allowed to get tired. We have seen Virat Kohli's example, he has had a couple of breaks. That can make all the difference. If a fast bowler is tired, it means that his energy is not there in the ball. I am sure he will be fine. You have got Bumrah back now, I think that combination is going to be key," Hayden said on Star Sports&nbsp;during the series-decider between India and Australia.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-dont-need-to-justify-by-lying-about-warning-heather-knight-on-deepti-sharmas-run-out-controversy-519813">India don't need to justify by lying about warning: Heather Knight on Deepti Sharma's run out controversy</a>

Bhuvneshwar was rested from the playing XI in the second T20I against Australia in Nagpur but was brought back into the XI for the decider in Hyderabad on Sunday. He managed to pick up a solitary wicket of in-form Cameron Green in the 5th over but was later taken to the cleaners in the death.

Bhuvneshwar is part of India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup along with the likes of Bumrah, Harshal and Arshdeep Singh. He will have to play a key role if India are to fancy their chances in the World Cup down under.

&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's form has been a major concern for the Indian team heading into the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next month. The senior fast bowler has struggled in the death overs and has failed to get his line and length right under pressure more often than not in the last few matches.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's form has been a major concern for the Indian team heading into the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next month. The senior fast bowler has struggled in the death overs and has failed to get his line and length right under pressure more often than not in the last few matches. However, Australia legend Matthew Hayden has played down the suggestions of Bhuvneshwar being out of form and said the Indian pacer just looks tired at present. The former Aussie opener believes the fast bowler will be fine after he is given a break during India's upcoming home series against South Africa. Bhuvneshwar has been playing continuous cricket for a while now and had led the Indian pace attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel in the Asia Cup 2022. He also featured in the recently-concluded T20I series against Australia where his death bowling woes continued. Also Read: Indian cricketer Taniya Bhatia claims she was robbed at team hotel in London, slams ECB for lack of security While he has bowled well with the new ball, he has not been at his best in the death overs for a while now. After being taken for runs in the death overs in the games against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, Bhuvneshwar ended up conceding 39 runs in just three overs in the 3rd T20I between India and Australia on Sunday. "I think he looks tired and fast bowlers are allowed to get tired. We have seen Virat Kohli's example, he has had a couple of breaks. That can make all the difference. If a fast bowler is tired, it means that his energy is not there in the ball. I am sure he will be fine. You have got Bumrah back now, I think that combination is going to be key," Hayden said on Star Sports during the series-decider between India and Australia. Also Read: India don't need to justify by lying about warning: Heather Knight on Deepti Sharma's run out controversy Bhuvneshwar was rested from the playing XI in the second T20I against Australia in Nagpur but was brought back into the XI for the decider in Hyderabad on Sunday. He managed to pick up a solitary wicket of in-form Cameron Green in the 5th over but was later taken to the cleaners in the death. Bhuvneshwar is part of India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup along with the likes of Bumrah, Harshal and Arshdeep Singh. He will have to play a key role if India are to fancy their chances in the World Cup down under.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar looks tired: Australia legend wants India to rest pacer ahead of T20 World Cup 2022

The Australian men's cricket team has unveiled their playing kit for the T20 World Cup scheduled to start on October 16 in Australia. The team's kit was revealed by Cricket Australia on their Twitter handle on Wednesday.

The uniform was created by Aunty Fiona Clarke and Courtney Hagen in partnership with Asics; the two have previously collaborated on other indigenous designs worn by Australia. The hosts will don an indigenous-inspired jersey for the first time at a World Cup event.

For the first time ever, an Australian cricket team will compete in a major event sporting a playing uniform honouring the First Nations. Artwork surrounds the shirt, which has black sleeves and a green and gold gradient on the trunk.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mitchell-starc-mitchell-marsh-marcus-stoinis-to-miss-upcoming-t20is-against-india-due-to-injuries-516115" hreflang="en">Injuries shackle Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis to the bench ahead of T20Is against India</a>

The black trousers and black cap will have the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on the brim, while the long-sleeved version will have the gold and green artwork extended onto the sleeves of the top.

The Walkabout Wickets artwork that has evolved into a dominant theme is once again centred on the front of the shirt, as it has been in prior designs. The artist of Walkabout Wickets is Clarke, a Kirrae Whurrong woman and great great granddaughter of James "Mosquito" Couzens, who played for the Aboriginal XI in a historic match at the MCG in 1866 and travelled to England in 1868 as part of the first Australian sports team to play outside of the country.

Prior to the 2016 Boxing Day Test, Clarke designed the artwork to honour the 150th anniversary of the 1866 game. Ever since it has been shown on the collar of the test shirt. Connection is a key element for the kit, and it pays tribute to the past, present, and upcoming First Nations cricketers.

"The overall design is to do with the process of connecting with yourself as an individual, as a team, in the community and whatever is surrounded by you ... with the river, the land, whatever you see," said cricekt.com.au quoting Clarke.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-jumps-14-places-in-latest-icc-t20i-rankings-after-asia-cup-heroics-md-rizwan-remains-on-top-516119" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli jumps 14 places in latest ICC T20I rankings after Asia Cup heroics, Md. Rizwan remains on top</a>

A Butchulla and Gubbi Gubbi woman named Hagen described that the pattern included stars to represent ancestors and wickets to indicate games played. On the shirt`s back, the First XI of the Aboriginal squad that toured England in 1868 is depicted in the shirt`s major design.

Only four Indigenous men and two Indigenous women have played international cricket for Australia since the first Test in 1877, despite the pioneering efforts of the 1868 squad, who undertook the treacherous voyage by ship to the UK and played 47 matches at locations including Lord's and The Oval.

The eye-catching new T20 World Cup uniform comes after Australia won the 2021 championship in Dubai while sporting two different uniforms, marking the first time an Australian side was required to prepare an 'alternative'. The ICC T20 World Cup will be hosted by Australia from October 16, 2022, to November 13, 2022.&nbsp;

The Australian men's cricket team has unveiled their playing kit for the T20 World Cup scheduled to start on October 16 in Australia. The team's kit was revealed by Cricket Australia on their Twitter handle on Wednesday.

The Australian men's cricket team has unveiled their playing kit for the T20 World Cup scheduled to start on October 16 in Australia. The team's kit was revealed by Cricket Australia on their Twitter handle on Wednesday. The uniform was created by Aunty Fiona Clarke and Courtney Hagen in partnership with Asics; the two have previously collaborated on other indigenous designs worn by Australia. The hosts will don an indigenous-inspired jersey for the first time at a World Cup event. For the first time ever, an Australian cricket team will compete in a major event sporting a playing uniform honouring the First Nations. Artwork surrounds the shirt, which has black sleeves and a green and gold gradient on the trunk. ALSO READ: Injuries shackle Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis to the bench ahead of T20Is against India The black trousers and black cap will have the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on the brim, while the long-sleeved version will have the gold and green artwork extended onto the sleeves of the top. The Walkabout Wickets artwork that has evolved into a dominant theme is once again centred on the front of the shirt, as it has been in prior designs. The artist of Walkabout Wickets is Clarke, a Kirrae Whurrong woman and great great granddaughter of James "Mosquito" Couzens, who played for the Aboriginal XI in a historic match at the MCG in 1866 and travelled to England in 1868 as part of the first Australian sports team to play outside of the country. Prior to the 2016 Boxing Day Test, Clarke designed the artwork to honour the 150th anniversary of the 1866 game. Ever since it has been shown on the collar of the test shirt. Connection is a key element for the kit, and it pays tribute to the past, present, and upcoming First Nations cricketers. "The overall design is to do with the process of connecting with yourself as an individual, as a team, in the community and whatever is surrounded by you ... with the river, the land, whatever you see," said cricekt.com.au quoting Clarke. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli jumps 14 places in latest ICC T20I rankings after Asia Cup heroics, Md. Rizwan remains on top A Butchulla and Gubbi Gubbi woman named Hagen described that the pattern included stars to represent ancestors and wickets to indicate games played. On the shirt`s back, the First XI of the Aboriginal squad that toured England in 1868 is depicted in the shirt`s major design. Only four Indigenous men and two Indigenous women have played international cricket for Australia since the first Test in 1877, despite the pioneering efforts of the 1868 squad, who undertook the treacherous voyage by ship to the UK and played 47 matches at locations including Lord's and The Oval. The eye-catching new T20 World Cup uniform comes after Australia won the 2021 championship in Dubai while sporting two different uniforms, marking the first time an Australian side was required to prepare an 'alternative'. The ICC T20 World Cup will be hosted by Australia from October 16, 2022, to November 13, 2022.

Team Australia to wear brand new indigenous-themed kit for ICC T20 World Cup

India pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel are all set to make it to the squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, said sources.

The sources said that both players are in good shape now after recovering from their injuries and are training regularly in National Cricket Academy (NCA).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-official-admits-virat-kohlis-spot-in-indias-t20i-squad-not-confirmed-after-world-cup-515162" hreflang="en">BCCI official admits Virat Kohli’s spot in India's T20I squad not confirmed after World Cup</a>

"Jasprit is bowling in nets regularly at NCA. The medical team is keeping a close eye on him, he is looking fine and he will come back most likely. The final test is not done yet but he will clear it.

"On the other hand, Harshal is also doing well and hopefully he will be available for selection as well. Rest all depends on final tests," sources told ANI.

The selection meeting for the ICC T20 World Cup is likely to happen soon. Both Bumrah and Harshal were not included in the Asia Cup squad earlier in August due to injuries and they both started their rehabilitation at NCA.

Notably, Harshal Patel is India`s second-highest wicket-taker in T20I cricket this year with 19 scalps, with veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar at the top with 31 wickets. Bumrah has only played three T20Is this year, across which he has taken three wickets.

ICC T20 World Cup is set to take place from October 16 to November 13 this year. Notably, India earned a third-place finish in the Super Four Phase of Asia Cup 2022 and failed to qualify for the final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-fans-sporting-national-jerseys-barred-from-entering-stadium-to-watch-asia-cup-final-between-pak-sl-515214" hreflang="en">Indian fans sporting national jerseys barred from entering stadium to watch Asia Cup final between PAK-SL</a>

They earned the Super Four qualification after wins against Pakistan and Hong Kong in the Group stage but failed to win against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Super Four phase, though they won their final game against Afghanistan.

But it was not enough to earn them qualification to the final. Sri Lanka and Pakistan will be squaring off in the Asia Cup final on Sunday.&nbsp;

India pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel are all set to make it to the squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, said sources. The sources said that both players are in good shape now after recovering from their injuries and are training regularly in National Cricket Academy (NCA).

India pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel are all set to make it to the squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, said sources. The sources said that both players are in good shape now after recovering from their injuries and are training regularly in National Cricket Academy (NCA). ALSO READ: BCCI official admits Virat Kohli’s spot in India's T20I squad not confirmed after World Cup "Jasprit is bowling in nets regularly at NCA. The medical team is keeping a close eye on him, he is looking fine and he will come back most likely. The final test is not done yet but he will clear it. "On the other hand, Harshal is also doing well and hopefully he will be available for selection as well. Rest all depends on final tests," sources told ANI. The selection meeting for the ICC T20 World Cup is likely to happen soon. Both Bumrah and Harshal were not included in the Asia Cup squad earlier in August due to injuries and they both started their rehabilitation at NCA. Notably, Harshal Patel is India`s second-highest wicket-taker in T20I cricket this year with 19 scalps, with veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar at the top with 31 wickets. Bumrah has only played three T20Is this year, across which he has taken three wickets. ICC T20 World Cup is set to take place from October 16 to November 13 this year. Notably, India earned a third-place finish in the Super Four Phase of Asia Cup 2022 and failed to qualify for the final. ALSO READ: Indian fans sporting national jerseys barred from entering stadium to watch Asia Cup final between PAK-SL They earned the Super Four qualification after wins against Pakistan and Hong Kong in the Group stage but failed to win against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Super Four phase, though they won their final game against Afghanistan. But it was not enough to earn them qualification to the final. Sri Lanka and Pakistan will be squaring off in the Asia Cup final on Sunday.

Jasprit Bumrah, Harshal Patel set to return for India's T20 World Cup campaign: Report

Although Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja put on an inspiring performance in the Asia Cup, it seems like their future in the shortest format of the game may be in jeopardy.

While in conversation with IndsideSport, a&nbsp;BCCI official has reportedly opened up about the onset of a transition period in the aftermath of the forthcoming ICC Men's T20I World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-cannot-be-taken-easy-wasim-akram-picks-his-favourites-ahead-of-asia-cup-2022-final-515136" hreflang="en">'Sri Lanka cannot be taken easy': Wasim Akram picks his favourites ahead of Asia Cup 2022 final</a>

The senior official revealed that should everything go according to the BCCI's plan, Kohli and Jadeja may be asked to step down from their T20I roles so that they can be preserved for longer formats.&nbsp;

"See, it’s nothing new. After every big event, there is a transition period. After last year’s World Cup, Shami was transitioned to focus on the two formats. Virat isn’t getting any younger. With the number of matches we play, he has to be managed as well.

"And we feel there needs to be a change. For Jadeja, the sheer number of injuries is a concern. We will discuss the transition plans after the World Cup."

Although Kohli would prefer to compete freely across formats, it is important to note that it is impractical to compete consistently at the highest level with the amount of cricket that is being played.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-is-close-to-my-heart-pakistan-head-coach-saqlain-mushtaq-on-kohli-vs-babar-debate-515145" hreflang="en">Virat is close to my heart: Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq on Kohli vs Babar debate</a>

With India hosting the&nbsp;ODI World Cup in 2023, the shortest format of the game in the country will be put on the back burner after the ICC T20 World Cup.

Owing to these circumstances, the&nbsp;decision of stepping away from the format could be made relatively easy for the likes of Kohli and Jadeja, making the transition period for both the players and the team much more manageable.&nbsp;

Although Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja put on an inspiring performance in the Asia Cup, it seems like their future in the shortest format of the game may be in jeopardy.

Although Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja put on an inspiring performance in the Asia Cup, it seems like their future in the shortest format of the game may be in jeopardy. While in conversation with IndsideSport, a BCCI official has reportedly opened up about the onset of a transition period in the aftermath of the forthcoming ICC Men's T20I World Cup. ALSO READ: 'Sri Lanka cannot be taken easy': Wasim Akram picks his favourites ahead of Asia Cup 2022 final The senior official revealed that should everything go according to the BCCI's plan, Kohli and Jadeja may be asked to step down from their T20I roles so that they can be preserved for longer formats. "See, it’s nothing new. After every big event, there is a transition period. After last year’s World Cup, Shami was transitioned to focus on the two formats. Virat isn’t getting any younger. With the number of matches we play, he has to be managed as well. "And we feel there needs to be a change. For Jadeja, the sheer number of injuries is a concern. We will discuss the transition plans after the World Cup." Although Kohli would prefer to compete freely across formats, it is important to note that it is impractical to compete consistently at the highest level with the amount of cricket that is being played. ALSO READ: Virat is close to my heart: Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq on Kohli vs Babar debate With India hosting the ODI World Cup in 2023, the shortest format of the game in the country will be put on the back burner after the ICC T20 World Cup. Owing to these circumstances, the decision of stepping away from the format could be made relatively easy for the likes of Kohli and Jadeja, making the transition period for both the players and the team much more manageable.

BCCI official admits Virat Kohli’s spot in India's T20I squad not confirmed after World Cup

Team India approached the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup with a bit of creativity, trying different playing XI combinations to figure out the most effective lineup, which would eventually be utilized at the forthcoming ICC T20 Men's World Cup.&nbsp;

In a recent interaction with Khaleej Times, the former Indian cricketer and administrator&nbsp;Dilip Vengsarkar offered fans his candid take on India's decision to conduct experiments in a high-profile tournament like the Asia Cup.&nbsp;

"The team is going ahead with their experiments. They picked&nbsp;<a href="https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/players/666-dinesh-karthik-playerprofile" title="Dinesh Karthik">Dinesh Karthik</a>, but they haven't played him, and then they played&nbsp;<a href="https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/players/1109-ravichandran-ashwin-playerprofile" title="Ravichandran Ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</a>&nbsp;for the first time yesterday (Tuesday) against Sri Lanka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-will-be-five-kilos-less-ravi-shastri-lauds-india-batter-after-his-71st-international-century-514847" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli will be five kilos less: Ravi Shastri lauds India batter after his 71st international century</a>

"Obviously, the team management wants to give all the players a chance as they are trying to find their best XI for next month's World Cup. But then this event is also very important. The Asia Cup is a very big tournament.

"Winning matches in a tournament like this is very important for the morale of the team. Also, I think it's important to have the winning combination.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/others-wouldnt-have-survived-gautam-gambhir-on-virat-kohli-being-in-indian-team-for-3-years-without-a-ton-514878" hreflang="en">Others wouldn't have survived: Gautam Gambhir on Virat Kohli being in Indian team for 3 years without a ton</a>

"As I said, the Asia Cup is a very big event. You can experiment maybe in a bilateral series, but the Asia Cup and the World Cup, these are major tournaments. In these tournaments, you need to win, that's very important," said Vengsarkar.&nbsp;

Up until now, the Men in Blue have tried out multiple combinations, none of which have seemed to work out very well as far as bagging results are concerned.

After managing to cruise past the Group Stage of the Asia Cup with wins against Pakistan and Hong Kong, India suffered&nbsp;a series of losses in the Super Fours stage at the hands of Sri Lanka and arch-nemeses and former foes Pakistan.&nbsp;

Team India approached the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup with a bit of creativity, trying different playing XI combinations to figure out the most effective lineup, which would eventually be utilized at the forthcoming ICC T20 Men's World Cup.

Team India approached the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup with a bit of creativity, trying different playing XI combinations to figure out the most effective lineup, which would eventually be utilized at the forthcoming ICC T20 Men's World Cup. In a recent interaction with Khaleej Times, the former Indian cricketer and administrator Dilip Vengsarkar offered fans his candid take on India's decision to conduct experiments in a high-profile tournament like the Asia Cup. "The team is going ahead with their experiments. They picked Dinesh Karthik, but they haven't played him, and then they played Ravichandran Ashwin for the first time yesterday (Tuesday) against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli will be five kilos less: Ravi Shastri lauds India batter after his 71st international century "Obviously, the team management wants to give all the players a chance as they are trying to find their best XI for next month's World Cup. But then this event is also very important. The Asia Cup is a very big tournament. "Winning matches in a tournament like this is very important for the morale of the team. Also, I think it's important to have the winning combination. ALSO READ: Others wouldn't have survived: Gautam Gambhir on Virat Kohli being in Indian team for 3 years without a ton "As I said, the Asia Cup is a very big event. You can experiment maybe in a bilateral series, but the Asia Cup and the World Cup, these are major tournaments. In these tournaments, you need to win, that's very important," said Vengsarkar. Up until now, the Men in Blue have tried out multiple combinations, none of which have seemed to work out very well as far as bagging results are concerned. After managing to cruise past the Group Stage of the Asia Cup with wins against Pakistan and Hong Kong, India suffered a series of losses in the Super Fours stage at the hands of Sri Lanka and arch-nemeses and former foes Pakistan.

Experiment in bilateral series not Asia Cup: Former World Cup-winner after India's dismal show

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja`s knee injury has disturbed the team combination and the Board of Control for Cricket in India big time and the BCCI is not happy about it.

"We are not happy with Jadeja`s injury. He should have kept the world cup in mind while doing adventurous activities. But he was not responsible and did not think that the World Cup is on the way. We are not happy with this action of Jadeja," a source to ANI.

Jadeja had injured his right knee and was ruled out of Asia Cup 2022 after playing the first two games of the event against Pakistan and Hong Kong. Earlier on Tuesday, it was revealed that&nbsp;Jadeja's knee surgery was successful and the all-rounder will start rehabilitation soon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-world-cup-winning-captains-ms-dhoni-and-kapil-dev-attend-us-open-qfs-video-goes-viral-watch-514687" hreflang="en">India's World Cup-winning captains MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev attend US Open QFs, video goes viral - WATCH</a>

Jadeja took to Instagram on Tuesday to offer fans some insight into the same. "The surgery was successful. There are many people to thank for their support and involvement - BCCI, my teammates, support staff, physios, doctors and the fans.

"I will start my rehab soon and try to get back to soon as I can. Thank you to everyone for your kind wishes," said Jadeja in a post.

Jadeja was having a solid Asia Cup 2022 till he got injured. In the first match against Pakistan, he played a match-winning knock of 35 and registered figures of 0/11 in two overs. In the next match against Hong Kong, he did not bat but took 1/15 with the ball and fielded really well.

The star all-rounder is having a good 2022 so far, both with bat and ball. In nine T20Is this year, Jadeja has scored 201 runs in eight innings at an average of 50.25. His best individual score is 46* this year in the format. Besides this, he has taken five wickets, with best figures of 1/15.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-pathum-nissanka-leads-sri-lankas-impressive-chase-beating-pakistan-by-five-wickets-514726" hreflang="en">Asia Cup 2022: Pathum Nissanka leads Sri Lanka's impressive chase beating Pakistan by five wickets</a>

In three Tests this year, he has scored 328 runs in five innings at an average of 82.00. He has smashed two centuries in the longer format of the sport this year. His best score is 175* which he scored against Sri Lanka earlier this year. He has also taken 10 wickets in this format with best figures of 5/41.

In three ODIs this year, he has scored 36 runs in two innings at an average of 36.00. His best score in format this year is 29. He has also taken a wicket in the format this year.

Earlier on Saturday before India`s Super Four clash with Pakistan, Indian head coach Rahul Dravid had announced that Jadeja sustained an injury in his knee and as a result, was ruled out of the Asia Cup 2022. Axar Patel, another bowling all-rounder was announced as his replacement.

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja`s knee injury has disturbed the team combination and the Board of Control for Cricket in India big time and the BCCI is not happy about it.

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja`s knee injury has disturbed the team combination and the Board of Control for Cricket in India big time and the BCCI is not happy about it. "We are not happy with Jadeja`s injury. He should have kept the world cup in mind while doing adventurous activities. But he was not responsible and did not think that the World Cup is on the way. We are not happy with this action of Jadeja," a source to ANI. Jadeja had injured his right knee and was ruled out of Asia Cup 2022 after playing the first two games of the event against Pakistan and Hong Kong. Earlier on Tuesday, it was revealed that Jadeja's knee surgery was successful and the all-rounder will start rehabilitation soon. ALSO READ: India's World Cup-winning captains MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev attend US Open QFs, video goes viral - WATCH Jadeja took to Instagram on Tuesday to offer fans some insight into the same. "The surgery was successful. There are many people to thank for their support and involvement - BCCI, my teammates, support staff, physios, doctors and the fans. "I will start my rehab soon and try to get back to soon as I can. Thank you to everyone for your kind wishes," said Jadeja in a post. Jadeja was having a solid Asia Cup 2022 till he got injured. In the first match against Pakistan, he played a match-winning knock of 35 and registered figures of 0/11 in two overs. In the next match against Hong Kong, he did not bat but took 1/15 with the ball and fielded really well. The star all-rounder is having a good 2022 so far, both with bat and ball. In nine T20Is this year, Jadeja has scored 201 runs in eight innings at an average of 50.25. His best individual score is 46* this year in the format. Besides this, he has taken five wickets, with best figures of 1/15. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2022: Pathum Nissanka leads Sri Lanka's impressive chase beating Pakistan by five wickets In three Tests this year, he has scored 328 runs in five innings at an average of 82.00. He has smashed two centuries in the longer format of the sport this year. His best score is 175* which he scored against Sri Lanka earlier this year. He has also taken 10 wickets in this format with best figures of 5/41. In three ODIs this year, he has scored 36 runs in two innings at an average of 36.00. His best score in format this year is 29. He has also taken a wicket in the format this year. Earlier on Saturday before India`s Super Four clash with Pakistan, Indian head coach Rahul Dravid had announced that Jadeja sustained an injury in his knee and as a result, was ruled out of the Asia Cup 2022. Axar Patel, another bowling all-rounder was announced as his replacement.

'Unhappy' BCCI admonish Ravindra Jadeja for irresponsibility towards fitness and health ahead of World Cup