Nathan Coulter-Nile on Thursday stressed that there is no rivalry between the fast bowlers as the team comes first, while referring to the selection in Australia's World Cup squad.

"Everyone's performing, that's why we're winning. But even when someone has a bad day, they're really supportive of other blokes who have had a good day," ICC quoted Coulter-Nile, as saying.

"It's fantastic to see. I don't think it's a conscious effort that anyone makes. Just think it's good mates supporting each other. I don't think anybody goes out there thinking, 'I'm not going to worry about selection'.&nbsp;

It's just the way everyone is; they're all just good people," he said.&nbsp;

Coulter-Nile had "mixed messages" from the selectors and also had a sudden bout of vertigo during the BBL and needed to be hospitalised.&nbsp;

Despite that, he returned and an impressive Australia tour of India. The fast bowler is likely to get a chance in the five-match ODI series against Pakistan to make his case stronger for the upcoming World Cup; however, he is not too fussed about the tournament.&nbsp;

There will be intense competition within the probable comprising Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Jhye Richardson, Pat Cummins, Kane Richardson and Jason Behrendorff."

The World Cup is always going to be spoken about. It's around the corner, people are vying for selection," he said.

"Practically, to get picked, you have to perform. So that's the easy way to do - go out and perform. You don't need to worry about if you're getting picked or not if you're taking wickets. It's only when you're not taking wickets or you're not making runs that you worry about it," Coulter-Nile said.

Australia are scheduled to play Pakistan in the first ODI on March 22 at Sharjah.&nbsp;

Nathan Coulter-Nile on Thursday stressed that there is no rivalry between the fast bowlers as the team comes first, while referring to the selection in Australia's World Cup squad.

Nathan Coulter-Nile on Thursday stressed that there is no rivalry between the fast bowlers as the team comes first, while referring to the selection in Australia's World Cup squad. "Everyone's performing, that's why we're winning. But even when someone has a bad day, they're really supportive of other blokes who have had a good day," ICC quoted Coulter-Nile, as saying. "It's fantastic to see. I don't think it's a conscious effort that anyone makes. Just think it's good mates supporting each other. I don't think anybody goes out there thinking, 'I'm not going to worry about selection'. It's just the way everyone is; they're all just good people," he said. Coulter-Nile had "mixed messages" from the selectors and also had a sudden bout of vertigo during the BBL and needed to be hospitalised. Despite that, he returned and an impressive Australia tour of India. The fast bowler is likely to get a chance in the five-match ODI series against Pakistan to make his case stronger for the upcoming World Cup; however, he is not too fussed about the tournament. There will be intense competition within the probable comprising Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Jhye Richardson, Pat Cummins, Kane Richardson and Jason Behrendorff." The World Cup is always going to be spoken about. It's around the corner, people are vying for selection," he said. "Practically, to get picked, you have to perform. So that's the easy way to do - go out and perform. You don't need to worry about if you're getting picked or not if you're taking wickets. It's only when you're not taking wickets or you're not making runs that you worry about it," Coulter-Nile said. Australia are scheduled to play Pakistan in the first ODI on March 22 at Sharjah.

No rivalry between fast bowlers for Australia WC squad: Nathan Coulter-Nile

Australian fast bowling great Glenn McGrath Wednesday picked India and England as the favourites to win the upcoming World Cup and said that the bowling unit will hold key to the fortunes of Virat Kohli's men in the 50-over showpiece.

McGrath also said Australia's recent limited-overs series win over India here have improved their chances of winning the World Cup which begins on May 30 in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

"The top two teams are going to be England and India. England had a tough time in West Indies and India lost to Australia. So, the competition will be tighter. Australia's chances have improved after their ODI and T20 win over India," McGrath, who is director of coaching at the MRF Pace Foundation here, told reporters.

"The fact that Australia won the T20 series and the ODIs against India in India will boost their confidence. With those two (Steve Smith and David Warner) coming back, the team will be strengthened and those players were missed during the Australian summer," he added.

McGrath said he was not surprised with the "exceptional" show of Indian pacers during their Australian tour earlier this year.

"I was not surprised ... They did exceptionally well. They bowled well as a unit and there was no weak link there. I think the pace they bowled at, the consistency and control, they really impressed me," said the 49-year-old who took 563 Test wickets in 124 matches between 1993 and 2007.

"Ishant (Sharma) is very experienced, Bhuvneshwar is your senior bowler and he needs to be bowling well. He is an intelligent cricketer and the (Mohammed) Shami is doing well.

"I was particularly impressed with Bumrah, he was exceptional. The way he bowls his yorkers and if there is some reverse swing, he is going to be dangerous. And the pace he bowls the yorkers makes him really unique. So, the bowlers have to perform if India is to win (the World Cup)," McGrath added.

The Australian legend said Indian captain Virat Kohli would be remembered just like a Brian Lara or a Sachin Tendulkar after he finishes his career.

"Kohli is a class player. He is easily one of the best going around now. By the end of his career he will be held up there alongside the likes of Lara and Tendulkar. As a captain and player he is quite aggressive. He likes getting involved in the game. As long as the emotions do not run too much and if he is playing well, it is fine. He has matured a lot and he knows his game.&nbsp;

"He has got the respect of his players. Watching the way he batted in Australia, the only thing I would have said to the home bowlers is I would have preferred them to bowl a little bit short and be more aggressive when he first came out to bat. A lot of times they tried to swing the ball and if it is full, he is in complete control. There is no obvious weakness in his game. To get him out early is a massive bonus," McGrath said.

He also felt that compatriots Steve Smith and David Warner, who were banned for a year in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, would do well on their return in the IPL for their respective franchises -- Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad.&nbsp;

"I think Smith and Warner will do well in the IPL after being out of the game for 12 months. They played a few T20 competitions around the world but they are keen and hungry. They are ready to prove they are good enough to continue playing international cricket," he said.

McGrath said the IPL would be a good preparation for the players ahead of the World Cup as it will help players get the mindset on the shorter version of the game.

"Indian conditions are very different to the English conditions but it will help in getting some confidence."

On the issue of managing the players' workload with the World Cup approaching, he said it should not be much of a problem and depends a lot of the players themselves.

"I really enjoyed my two years in the IPL. Managing the workload should not be too much of a problem as it is not huge. It is different intensity, obviously there is only four overs and it is up to the individual to recover. If they can recover well, they will be fine," he said.&nbsp;

Australian fast bowling great Glenn McGrath Wednesday picked India and England as the favourites to win the upcoming World Cup and said that the bowling unit will hold key to the fortunes of Virat Kohli's men in the 50-over showpiece.

Australian fast bowling great Glenn McGrath Wednesday picked India and England as the favourites to win the upcoming World Cup and said that the bowling unit will hold key to the fortunes of Virat Kohli's men in the 50-over showpiece. McGrath also said Australia's recent limited-overs series win over India here have improved their chances of winning the World Cup which begins on May 30 in the United Kingdom. "The top two teams are going to be England and India. England had a tough time in West Indies and India lost to Australia. So, the competition will be tighter. Australia's chances have improved after their ODI and T20 win over India," McGrath, who is director of coaching at the MRF Pace Foundation here, told reporters. "The fact that Australia won the T20 series and the ODIs against India in India will boost their confidence. With those two (Steve Smith and David Warner) coming back, the team will be strengthened and those players were missed during the Australian summer," he added. McGrath said he was not surprised with the "exceptional" show of Indian pacers during their Australian tour earlier this year. "I was not surprised ... They did exceptionally well. They bowled well as a unit and there was no weak link there. I think the pace they bowled at, the consistency and control, they really impressed me," said the 49-year-old who took 563 Test wickets in 124 matches between 1993 and 2007. "Ishant (Sharma) is very experienced, Bhuvneshwar is your senior bowler and he needs to be bowling well. He is an intelligent cricketer and the (Mohammed) Shami is doing well. "I was particularly impressed with Bumrah, he was exceptional. The way he bowls his yorkers and if there is some reverse swing, he is going to be dangerous. And the pace he bowls the yorkers makes him really unique. So, the bowlers have to perform if India is to win (the World Cup)," McGrath added. The Australian legend said Indian captain Virat Kohli would be remembered just like a Brian Lara or a Sachin Tendulkar after he finishes his career. "Kohli is a class player. He is easily one of the best going around now. By the end of his career he will be held up there alongside the likes of Lara and Tendulkar. As a captain and player he is quite aggressive. He likes getting involved in the game. As long as the emotions do not run too much and if he is playing well, it is fine. He has matured a lot and he knows his game. "He has got the respect of his players. Watching the way he batted in Australia, the only thing I would have said to the home bowlers is I would have preferred them to bowl a little bit short and be more aggressive when he first came out to bat. A lot of times they tried to swing the ball and if it is full, he is in complete control. There is no obvious weakness in his game. To get him out early is a massive bonus," McGrath said. He also felt that compatriots Steve Smith and David Warner, who were banned for a year in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, would do well on their return in the IPL for their respective franchises -- Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad. "I think Smith and Warner will do well in the IPL after being out of the game for 12 months. They played a few T20 competitions around the world but they are keen and hungry. They are ready to prove they are good enough to continue playing international cricket," he said. McGrath said the IPL would be a good preparation for the players ahead of the World Cup as it will help players get the mindset on the shorter version of the game. "Indian conditions are very different to the English conditions but it will help in getting some confidence." On the issue of managing the players' workload with the World Cup approaching, he said it should not be much of a problem and depends a lot of the players themselves. "I really enjoyed my two years in the IPL. Managing the workload should not be too much of a problem as it is not huge. It is different intensity, obviously there is only four overs and it is up to the individual to recover. If they can recover well, they will be fine," he said.

India, England favourites to win 2019 World Cup: Glenn McGrath

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup.

"I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday.

"I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs."

Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice.

"(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said. Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup. "I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday. "I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs." Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice. "(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

Despite Smith-Warner return, Ricky Ponting backs Usman Khawaja to make Australia's World Cup squad

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap.

These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England.

"I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid.

He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday.

"In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach.

"But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted.

Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.

All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home.

"Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said.

"So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined.

Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup.

"My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked.

Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket.

While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers".

"Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.&nbsp;

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid. India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap. These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England. "I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid. He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday. "In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach. "But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted. Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home. "Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said. "So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined. Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup. "My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked. Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket. While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers". "Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.

Defeat to Australia warning sign for India ahead of ICC World Cup: Rahul Dravid

Former Australian&nbsp;cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked&nbsp;his favourites&nbsp;for ICC&nbsp;World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

Most of the spectators and analysts from the cricketing world&nbsp;have picked India, Australia, England as the title contenders. Now, Ponting has also&nbsp;shared his opinion on the same.&nbsp;

Ponting said that Australia should not get carried away after their recent away series win in India and&nbsp;added, "Australia are a very talented team and I expect them to reach the semis."&nbsp;

He reflected his view on India's chances, saying,&nbsp;"No need for India to panic after losing three ODI games in a row." But mentioned that India&nbsp;"have&nbsp;to sort their middle order batting" ahead of the tournament.&nbsp;

However, he backed England more considering their&nbsp;home conditions and their&nbsp;balanced squad. He said that the English team has got&nbsp;depth in the squad with&nbsp;in-form players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ponting said that he is very excited for the upcoming cricketing&nbsp;months but&nbsp;believes that it is tough to foresee the winner of the cricket's extravaganza.&nbsp;

Watch the interview:&nbsp;

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Ahead of Indian Premier League 2019,&nbsp;Delhi Capitals head coach Ponting talked about his side's preparation and chances of winning the T20 league which will kick off from March 23.&nbsp;

The two-time World Cup winner Ponting said that Delhi Capitals&nbsp;is balanced&nbsp;team and has enough depth to excel.&nbsp;

He said, "I think we have got a very well-balanced squad."

"I&nbsp;think all squads end up looking good on paper. It is about how they&nbsp;play and how we prepare them, how we train them and&nbsp;how we ready them for the IPL with the difference between winning and not winning."&nbsp;

"I am excited with the squad and will look to play the first match," Ponting said. "Needs to have the flexibility to play different teams," he added.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals finished at the bottom of the points table in his first season in-charge but in the upcoming edition, they seek a change in fortunes as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;

He said, "I am excited, it does feel like a really fresh start. The whole rebrand of Delhi Capitals is really exciting."&nbsp;

"We have got some exciting players to work with so I can not wait for the first game." He also added that the team has a balance of young and experienced players.&nbsp;

Delhi already has retained Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw at the time of auction and to boost the batting unit further, they traded batsman Shikhar Dhawan from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem.&nbsp;

DC also spend lavishly to pick South African player Colin Ingram which is a clear indication that the Delhi team has intended to strengthen their batting unit.

The bowling unit is a good balance of pace and spin. They already had retained&nbsp;Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult.&nbsp;Besides, they purchased Ishant Sharma to add more fuel to the bowling unit.&nbsp;

Ponting also shared his&nbsp;concerns about players' workload ahead of the World Cup.&nbsp;He said&nbsp;that we have built the&nbsp;team considering all the possible factors. Like no Australian in the squad as they won't be available&nbsp;for&nbsp;the first two weeks also will leave early.&nbsp;

"Our aim is to win the IPL, and if we can manage the players and the combinations well throughout the tournament, it will turn out to be a very successful season for the Capitals," he said during press conference.&nbsp;

"We can achieve some pretty special things this season," he added.&nbsp;

Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai In Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked his favourites for ICC World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked his favourites for ICC World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. Most of the spectators and analysts from the cricketing world have picked India, Australia, England as the title contenders. Now, Ponting has also shared his opinion on the same. Ponting said that Australia should not get carried away after their recent away series win in India and added, "Australia are a very talented team and I expect them to reach the semis." He reflected his view on India's chances, saying, "No need for India to panic after losing three ODI games in a row." But mentioned that India "have to sort their middle order batting" ahead of the tournament. However, he backed England more considering their home conditions and their balanced squad. He said that the English team has got depth in the squad with in-form players. Ponting said that he is very excited for the upcoming cricketing months but believes that it is tough to foresee the winner of the cricket's extravaganza. Watch the interview: × Ahead of Indian Premier League 2019, Delhi Capitals head coach Ponting talked about his side's preparation and chances of winning the T20 league which will kick off from March 23. The two-time World Cup winner Ponting said that Delhi Capitals is balanced team and has enough depth to excel. He said, "I think we have got a very well-balanced squad." "I think all squads end up looking good on paper. It is about how they play and how we prepare them, how we train them and how we ready them for the IPL with the difference between winning and not winning." "I am excited with the squad and will look to play the first match," Ponting said. "Needs to have the flexibility to play different teams," he added. Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals finished at the bottom of the points table in his first season in-charge but in the upcoming edition, they seek a change in fortunes as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals. He said, "I am excited, it does feel like a really fresh start. The whole rebrand of Delhi Capitals is really exciting." "We have got some exciting players to work with so I can not wait for the first game." He also added that the team has a balance of young and experienced players. Delhi already has retained Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw at the time of auction and to boost the batting unit further, they traded batsman Shikhar Dhawan from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem. DC also spend lavishly to pick South African player Colin Ingram which is a clear indication that the Delhi team has intended to strengthen their batting unit. The bowling unit is a good balance of pace and spin. They already had retained Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult. Besides, they purchased Ishant Sharma to add more fuel to the bowling unit. Ponting also shared his concerns about players' workload ahead of the World Cup. He said that we have built the team considering all the possible factors. Like no Australian in the squad as they won't be available for the first two weeks also will leave early. "Our aim is to win the IPL, and if we can manage the players and the combinations well throughout the tournament, it will turn out to be a very successful season for the Capitals," he said during press conference. "We can achieve some pretty special things this season," he added. Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai In Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

England the team to beat at World Cup, Ricky Ponting tells WION

Trailblazing bowler Rashid Khan said Afghanistan will fear no one when the World Cup starts in May after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-beat-ireland-for-historic-first-test-victory-204030">maiden Test win</a> enhanced the reputation of the rising cricket nation.

Khan, who is one of the world's leading bowlers in short-form cricket, said Afghanistan's confidence was growing after beating Ireland on Monday in just their second Test match.

The 20-year-old leg-spinner, who tops the world Twenty20 bowling rankings and lies third in the 50-over standings, took five for 82 as Afghanistan beat their fellow Test newcomers in Dehradun.

Before an expected starring role for Sunrisers Hyderabad when the 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL) begins at the weekend, Khan said Aghanistan's cricketers now need only to believe in themselves.

"We have the talent and we have the skills," he told AFP in an interview.

At last year's Asia Cup, Afghanistan made a breakthrough by topping their group in the 50-over competition ahead of established Test nations Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

'Believe in your skills'

"How we played in the Asia Cup was totally different and we showed that we can beat any side," said Khan, whose side even tied a match with heavyweights India in the last-four stage.

"The only thing is to believe in your skills. Just to be relaxed in big matches and enjoy your game," he said.&nbsp;

"And that's how we should be in the World Cup."

War-torn Afghanistan only gained one-day international (ODI) status in 2009 and Test status in 2017, but their recent rise has coincided with Khan's emergence as a world-class spinner.

He made his ODI debut in 2015 as a 17-year-old and credits fast-paced Twenty20 tournaments such as the IPL for developing his bowling repertoire, which includes a mesmerising googly.

"The IPL gives you lot of motivation. Once you play in these leagues, it gives you confidence playing with big players," said Khan, who cost Hyderabad $597,000 in 2017 and took 21 wickets for them last year.

"And then you perform there on flat wickets like the IPL and that gives you a kind of satisfaction and confidence that I can deliver when I am in the national side."

Khan has travelled the world to take part in Twenty20 leagues including Australia's Big Bash, the Caribbean Premier League and the Pakistan Super League.

"It really helps to improve your skills working with different coaches and players," he said. "Pick their thoughts and experience and that really helps you improve your game."

Khan, one of 12 siblings, learnt his cricket with a tennis ball in the remote and humble province of Nangarhar before making his international debut against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.

The world took notice when he became the fastest bowler to 100 ODI wickets, completing the milestone in 44 games, eight fewer than Australia's Mitchell Starc. He now has 123 in 57 matches.

'I don't pressure myself'

Khan says the key to his success is that he focuses only on practising and playing despite bearing the huge expectation that he will take wickets every time he bowls.

"I don't put that pressure on myself. I keep trying to enjoy myself. Enjoy my bowling whether I take wickets or not," he said.

"I focus on doing the right things and bowl well. I don't focus on the result but focus on my hard work."

Khan, who is a big fan of Pakistan all-round great Shahid Afridi, said it was tough learning to play cricket in a country ravaged by war for decades.

While many of the Afghanistan's players learnt the game in refugee camps across the border in Pakistan, Khan played with his seven brothers to hone his skills.

"It was tough because of the lack of facilities. No good grounds and equipment. But we still enjoyed our cricket," said Khan with a smile.

"We never put it in our mind that we don't have facilities or stuff like that and tried to focus on our game.&nbsp;

"My brothers used to watch and play cricket and that's how I became a big fan of the game."

Afghanistan lost their debut Test to top-ranked India inside two days in 2018, but came back a much-improved side against Ireland a year later.

"The win against Ireland will help motivate our first-class cricketers," Khan said. "People will start loving Tests rather than Twenty20s and ODIs."

Trailblazing bowler Rashid Khan said Afghanistan will fear no one when the World Cup starts in May after a maiden Test win enhanced the reputation of the rising cricket nation.

Trailblazing bowler Rashid Khan said Afghanistan will fear no one when the World Cup starts in May after a maiden Test win enhanced the reputation of the rising cricket nation. Khan, who is one of the world's leading bowlers in short-form cricket, said Afghanistan's confidence was growing after beating Ireland on Monday in just their second Test match. The 20-year-old leg-spinner, who tops the world Twenty20 bowling rankings and lies third in the 50-over standings, took five for 82 as Afghanistan beat their fellow Test newcomers in Dehradun. Before an expected starring role for Sunrisers Hyderabad when the 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL) begins at the weekend, Khan said Aghanistan's cricketers now need only to believe in themselves. "We have the talent and we have the skills," he told AFP in an interview. At last year's Asia Cup, Afghanistan made a breakthrough by topping their group in the 50-over competition ahead of established Test nations Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. 'Believe in your skills' "How we played in the Asia Cup was totally different and we showed that we can beat any side," said Khan, whose side even tied a match with heavyweights India in the last-four stage. "The only thing is to believe in your skills. Just to be relaxed in big matches and enjoy your game," he said. "And that's how we should be in the World Cup." War-torn Afghanistan only gained one-day international (ODI) status in 2009 and Test status in 2017, but their recent rise has coincided with Khan's emergence as a world-class spinner. He made his ODI debut in 2015 as a 17-year-old and credits fast-paced Twenty20 tournaments such as the IPL for developing his bowling repertoire, which includes a mesmerising googly. "The IPL gives you lot of motivation. Once you play in these leagues, it gives you confidence playing with big players," said Khan, who cost Hyderabad $597,000 in 2017 and took 21 wickets for them last year. "And then you perform there on flat wickets like the IPL and that gives you a kind of satisfaction and confidence that I can deliver when I am in the national side." Khan has travelled the world to take part in Twenty20 leagues including Australia's Big Bash, the Caribbean Premier League and the Pakistan Super League. "It really helps to improve your skills working with different coaches and players," he said. "Pick their thoughts and experience and that really helps you improve your game." Khan, one of 12 siblings, learnt his cricket with a tennis ball in the remote and humble province of Nangarhar before making his international debut against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. The world took notice when he became the fastest bowler to 100 ODI wickets, completing the milestone in 44 games, eight fewer than Australia's Mitchell Starc. He now has 123 in 57 matches. 'I don't pressure myself' Khan says the key to his success is that he focuses only on practising and playing despite bearing the huge expectation that he will take wickets every time he bowls. "I don't put that pressure on myself. I keep trying to enjoy myself. Enjoy my bowling whether I take wickets or not," he said. "I focus on doing the right things and bowl well. I don't focus on the result but focus on my hard work." Khan, who is a big fan of Pakistan all-round great Shahid Afridi, said it was tough learning to play cricket in a country ravaged by war for decades. While many of the Afghanistan's players learnt the game in refugee camps across the border in Pakistan, Khan played with his seven brothers to hone his skills. "It was tough because of the lack of facilities. No good grounds and equipment. But we still enjoyed our cricket," said Khan with a smile. "We never put it in our mind that we don't have facilities or stuff like that and tried to focus on our game. "My brothers used to watch and play cricket and that's how I became a big fan of the game." Afghanistan lost their debut Test to top-ranked India inside two days in 2018, but came back a much-improved side against Ireland a year later. "The win against Ireland will help motivate our first-class cricketers," Khan said. "People will start loving Tests rather than Twenty20s and ODIs."

Bring on the World Cup, we fear no one: Rashid Khan

The chief of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-complacency-on-icc-world-cup-security-says-icc-chief-executive-david-richardson-203975">International Cricket Council</a> (ICC)&nbsp;David Richardson said that he can not anticipate any threat to the&nbsp;India-Pakistan World Cup match, which is scheduled to&nbsp;take place&nbsp;on June 16 in&nbsp;Manchester.&nbsp;

He further added that both the teams are&nbsp;bound by an ICC agreement to show up.&nbsp;

"For ICC events, all teams have signed a members' participation agreement which requires them to participate in all the matches of the tournament and (in case of) any unjustified non-compliance with that provision, the playing conditions will kick in and the points will be awarded accordingly (to the other team)," he said when asked about the matter.&nbsp;

There have been calls to boycott&nbsp;the high-profile match after last month's Pulwama terror attack which killed more than 40 CRPF personnel in India.&nbsp;

Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket also wrote a letter to the ICC urging it to boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates", but did not specifically name Pakistan.&nbsp;

"The ICC's motto is clear we don't want to mix politics with sports."&nbsp;

Asked about the ICC's role in the resumption of bilateral ties between India and Pakistan, Richardson said it was completely up to the two cricketing boards.&nbsp;

The ICC CEO said the perception about Pakistan among the rest of the world is slowly changing and the world body is supporting its member board to bring back international cricket to the nation.&nbsp;

The chief of International Cricket Council (ICC) David Richardson said that he can not anticipate any threat to the India-Pakistan World Cup match, which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester.

The chief of International Cricket Council (ICC) David Richardson said that he can not anticipate any threat to the India-Pakistan World Cup match, which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester. He further added that both the teams are bound by an ICC agreement to show up. "For ICC events, all teams have signed a members' participation agreement which requires them to participate in all the matches of the tournament and (in case of) any unjustified non-compliance with that provision, the playing conditions will kick in and the points will be awarded accordingly (to the other team)," he said when asked about the matter. There have been calls to boycott the high-profile match after last month's Pulwama terror attack which killed more than 40 CRPF personnel in India. Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket also wrote a letter to the ICC urging it to boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates", but did not specifically name Pakistan. "The ICC's motto is clear we don't want to mix politics with sports." Asked about the ICC's role in the resumption of bilateral ties between India and Pakistan, Richardson said it was completely up to the two cricketing boards. The ICC CEO said the perception about Pakistan among the rest of the world is slowly changing and the world body is supporting its member board to bring back international cricket to the nation.

Indo-Pak World Cup match bound by ICC agreement: ICC chief David Richardson

The deadly New Zealand shootings which Bangladesh cricketers narrowly avoided means security will remain an "absolute priority" going into the World Cup, the head of cricket's governing body said Sunday.

Fifty people died in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch on Friday, in what is believed to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.

Bangladesh's Test cricketers were just a few minutes from being caught up in the massacre, arriving in a bus at one of the mosques as shooting began.

The third Test between Bangladesh and New Zealand which was due to start in Wellington on Saturday was cancelled and the team returned home.

Speaking on the sidelines of Pakistan Super League (PSL) final in Karachi, the International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive David Richardson said security had to remain "an absolute priority".

"I don't think security is anything new, obviously something happening in New Zealand probably took a lot of people by surprise and it emphasised the need not to be complacent, especially going into the World Cup," Richardson said.

The England and Wales Cricket Board will host the World Cup from May 30 to July 14.

"I know the work has already been done by the security director together with all the security agencies in the UK and they are leaving no stone unturned," he added.

Richardson said Pakistan had taken "a great step forward" in safely hosting the PSL matches, a decade on from an attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore which has seen foreign teams refuse to play in the country over security fears.

Pakistan has gradually tried to revive international cricket at home, having hosted the finals of Pakistan Super League for the last two years and played matches against a World XI, Sri Lanka and the West Indies.

This year eight PSL matches were hosted in Karachi without incident and Richardson, a former South African player, said it was helping to change the image of Pakistan.

"The perception outside of Pakistan was that it was quite a dangerous place to visit in the past and that perception slowly but surely has been changed," he said.

He said a recent tour by 43 foreign players, including former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson and current New Zealand opener Colin Munro, reflected the changes Pakistan has made.&nbsp;

Trust over security has "increased tremendously," he added.

However, last month Cricket Australia acted on their government's advice not to tour Pakistan, where no Australian senior team has played since 1998.

The deadly New Zealand shootings which Bangladesh cricketers narrowly avoided means security will remain an "absolute priority" going into the World Cup, the head of cricket's governing body said Sunday.

The deadly New Zealand shootings which Bangladesh cricketers narrowly avoided means security will remain an "absolute priority" going into the World Cup, the head of cricket's governing body said Sunday. Fifty people died in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch on Friday, in what is believed to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country. Bangladesh's Test cricketers were just a few minutes from being caught up in the massacre, arriving in a bus at one of the mosques as shooting began. The third Test between Bangladesh and New Zealand which was due to start in Wellington on Saturday was cancelled and the team returned home. Speaking on the sidelines of Pakistan Super League (PSL) final in Karachi, the International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive David Richardson said security had to remain "an absolute priority". "I don't think security is anything new, obviously something happening in New Zealand probably took a lot of people by surprise and it emphasised the need not to be complacent, especially going into the World Cup," Richardson said. The England and Wales Cricket Board will host the World Cup from May 30 to July 14. "I know the work has already been done by the security director together with all the security agencies in the UK and they are leaving no stone unturned," he added. Richardson said Pakistan had taken "a great step forward" in safely hosting the PSL matches, a decade on from an attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore which has seen foreign teams refuse to play in the country over security fears. Pakistan has gradually tried to revive international cricket at home, having hosted the finals of Pakistan Super League for the last two years and played matches against a World XI, Sri Lanka and the West Indies. This year eight PSL matches were hosted in Karachi without incident and Richardson, a former South African player, said it was helping to change the image of Pakistan. "The perception outside of Pakistan was that it was quite a dangerous place to visit in the past and that perception slowly but surely has been changed," he said. He said a recent tour by 43 foreign players, including former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson and current New Zealand opener Colin Munro, reflected the changes Pakistan has made. Trust over security has "increased tremendously," he added. However, last month Cricket Australia acted on their government's advice not to tour Pakistan, where no Australian senior team has played since 1998.

No complacency on ICC World Cup security, says ICC chief executive David Richardson

South Africa finished their one-day series against Sri Lanka with a clear idea of both the team and the tactics they will use in the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

Sri Lanka, after their fourth 5-0 series defeat in less than two years, appeared to be in disarray.

South African captain Faf&nbsp;du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;said after the fifth match on Saturday night that he was "98 to 99 per cent" sure who would go to England.

He said the "one or two per cent" was to allow for "guys who are really red hot or striking good form".

Sri Lankan captain Lasith Malinga said form in a forthcoming domestic tournament would be important, while he expected experienced players like Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal – who did not play in South Africa – to be in contention.

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;indicated that South Africa were pinning their hopes on a potent bowling line-up to win matches, even if meant that the team might have a lengthy tail.

South Africa’s fast bowlers, backed by leg-spinner Imran Tahir, dominated the Sri Lankan batsmen, who were unable to bat out a full 50 overs in any of the matches.

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;cited the example of Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy in England.

"I've been in teams that have had a very long batting line-up and it didn’t prove successful,” said&nbsp;Du&nbsp;Plessis.&nbsp;

"You can learn from your mistakes and you can look at other teams where they have got it right. Pakistan had a very average batting line-up but it didn’t matter to them because they kept bowling teams out.”

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;said that if the bowlers performed, it would be up to the top six in the batting order to make sure they scored enough runs.

Malinga, who has captained Sri Lanka to nine one-day losses without a win, said at the post-match presentation: “We tried hard in the last five matches but we didn't get enough runs on the board.”

Against the odds

Malinga said his players had fought hard and the bowlers had stuck to their plans without luck.

But evidence of the fight claimed by Malinga was seldom in evidence during the matches.

With coach Chandika Hathurusingha recalled to Sri Lanka ahead of the remaining matches on tour – three Twenty20 internationals – it seemed Sri Lanka had much to sort out before the World Cup starting on May 30.

But the same was said before last month’s Test series in South Africa, which Sri Lanka won against the odds under the captaincy of Dimuth Karunaratne.

Seven of South Africa’s likely World Cup squad will be playing in the Indian Premier League, which starts on Saturday. The fixtures have not been finalised but it is likely the IPL will only finish about two weeks before the start of the World Cup.

Key bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Tahir, as well as promising fast bowler Anrich Nortje, will be playing in the IPL – as will&nbsp;Du&nbsp;Plessis, Quinton de Kock and David Miller.

Du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;said he had no power over IPL decisions, “but if we can get some guys even a week’s break before we join up together that will be great for us. We’ll see if that can be a possibility”.

Du&nbsp;Plessis, Rabada, Ngidi, Tahir and De Kock were all named on Sunday in South Africa’s squad for the first Twenty20 international against Sri Lanka at Newlands on Tuesday but will not play in the last two matches.

South African T20 international squads:

First match: Faf&nbsp;du&nbsp;Plessis&nbsp;(captain), Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Rassie van der Dussen.

Second and third matches: Duminy (captain),&nbsp; Hendricks, Markram, Miller, Chris Morris, Nortje, Phehlukwayo, Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Steyn, Van der Dussen.

South Africa finished their one-day series against Sri Lanka with a clear idea of both the team and the tactics they will use in the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Sri Lanka, after their fourth 5-0 series defeat in less than two years, appeared to be in disarray.

South Africa finished their one-day series against Sri Lanka with a clear idea of both the team and the tactics they will use in the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Sri Lanka, after their fourth 5-0 series defeat in less than two years, appeared to be in disarray. South African captain Faf du Plessis said after the fifth match on Saturday night that he was "98 to 99 per cent" sure who would go to England. He said the "one or two per cent" was to allow for "guys who are really red hot or striking good form". Sri Lankan captain Lasith Malinga said form in a forthcoming domestic tournament would be important, while he expected experienced players like Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal – who did not play in South Africa – to be in contention. Du Plessis indicated that South Africa were pinning their hopes on a potent bowling line-up to win matches, even if meant that the team might have a lengthy tail. South Africa’s fast bowlers, backed by leg-spinner Imran Tahir, dominated the Sri Lankan batsmen, who were unable to bat out a full 50 overs in any of the matches. Du Plessis cited the example of Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy in England. "I've been in teams that have had a very long batting line-up and it didn’t prove successful,” said Du Plessis. "You can learn from your mistakes and you can look at other teams where they have got it right. Pakistan had a very average batting line-up but it didn’t matter to them because they kept bowling teams out.” Du Plessis said that if the bowlers performed, it would be up to the top six in the batting order to make sure they scored enough runs. Malinga, who has captained Sri Lanka to nine one-day losses without a win, said at the post-match presentation: “We tried hard in the last five matches but we didn't get enough runs on the board.” Against the odds Malinga said his players had fought hard and the bowlers had stuck to their plans without luck. But evidence of the fight claimed by Malinga was seldom in evidence during the matches. With coach Chandika Hathurusingha recalled to Sri Lanka ahead of the remaining matches on tour – three Twenty20 internationals – it seemed Sri Lanka had much to sort out before the World Cup starting on May 30. But the same was said before last month’s Test series in South Africa, which Sri Lanka won against the odds under the captaincy of Dimuth Karunaratne. Seven of South Africa’s likely World Cup squad will be playing in the Indian Premier League, which starts on Saturday. The fixtures have not been finalised but it is likely the IPL will only finish about two weeks before the start of the World Cup. Key bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Tahir, as well as promising fast bowler Anrich Nortje, will be playing in the IPL – as will Du Plessis, Quinton de Kock and David Miller. Du Plessis said he had no power over IPL decisions, “but if we can get some guys even a week’s break before we join up together that will be great for us. We’ll see if that can be a possibility”. Du Plessis, Rabada, Ngidi, Tahir and De Kock were all named on Sunday in South Africa’s squad for the first Twenty20 international against Sri Lanka at Newlands on Tuesday but will not play in the last two matches. South African T20 international squads: First match: Faf du Plessis (captain), Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Rassie van der Dussen. Second and third matches: Duminy (captain), Hendricks, Markram, Miller, Chris Morris, Nortje, Phehlukwayo, Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Steyn, Van der Dussen.

South Africa pin World Cup hopes on bowlers

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes England have a very good chance to win the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.

"If you go by the history of last two or three World Cups, in 2011 the host nation India won, in 2015 host nation Australia won. In 2019, there is a very good chance that England will win the World Cup," Gavaskar said Tuesday.

Gavaskar, however, pointed out that he is not saying England will win the 50-over tournament.

"There is a very good chance they (England) will win the World Cup," he said.The former cricketer, who debuted and played his last ODI cricket against England, is the first player to amass 10,000 Test runs.

He had also played for Somerset, one of eighteen first-class county clubs within the domestic cricket structure of England.

Meanwhile, the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to India, Dominic Asquith said he is hopeful that England men' s team will emulate their female compatriots, referring to England`s women cricketers victory over India at T20Is."Last week, we celebrated International Women`s Day.

For England's women cricketers it coincided with the victory over India`s T20 team," Asquith said."Over the course of this summer, we are delighted that we will host India and of course teams at the cricket World Cup.

On Sunday, June 30 we probably all know already there will be quite a match at Edgbaston. And we will see if England`s men can emulate their female compatriots," he said.

The much-awaited World Cup is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. India and England will lock horns on June 30 at the Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes England have a very good chance to win the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. "If you go by the history of last two or three World Cups, in 2011 the host nation India won, in 2015 host nation Australia won.

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes England have a very good chance to win the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. "If you go by the history of last two or three World Cups, in 2011 the host nation India won, in 2015 host nation Australia won. In 2019, there is a very good chance that England will win the World Cup," Gavaskar said Tuesday. Gavaskar, however, pointed out that he is not saying England will win the 50-over tournament. "There is a very good chance they (England) will win the World Cup," he said.The former cricketer, who debuted and played his last ODI cricket against England, is the first player to amass 10,000 Test runs. He had also played for Somerset, one of eighteen first-class county clubs within the domestic cricket structure of England. Meanwhile, the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to India, Dominic Asquith said he is hopeful that England men' s team will emulate their female compatriots, referring to England`s women cricketers victory over India at T20Is."Last week, we celebrated International Women`s Day. For England's women cricketers it coincided with the victory over India`s T20 team," Asquith said."Over the course of this summer, we are delighted that we will host India and of course teams at the cricket World Cup. On Sunday, June 30 we probably all know already there will be quite a match at Edgbaston. And we will see if England`s men can emulate their female compatriots," he said. The much-awaited World Cup is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. India and England will lock horns on June 30 at the Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.

Sunil Gavaskar picks England as 2019 ICC World Cup favourites

Emboldened by Australia's remarkable turnaround in the ODI series against India, vice-captain Alex Carey Tuesday said they are "really confident" of entering the ICC World Cup with a squad good enough to play like defending champions.

The five-match series is poised at 2-2, thanks to Australia's back-to-back wins after staring down the barrel at one stage.

"As a player in the Australian cricket side we have been working hard in the last 12-18 months. Some success has started to come our way. We are really confident moving with the squad we take to the World Cup," Clarey said on the eve of the series-deciding game here.

Carey said it will only add to the strength of the side when Steve Smith and David Warner rejoin the side after serving out their bans.&nbsp;

"Those are definitely some big names that might come back into the line. The guys that are in the side are performing well, so it's only healthy for Australian cricket that the guys in the side are playing well and these guys that have done really well in the past have definitely put their hand up for selection when they are available."

He said he was not surprised by the way the Australian batsmen tackled India's formidable spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav, who have tormented batters with their guile in recent times.

"There has probably been a fair bit of media (analysis) about Australia playing against spin in the past. We have worked really hard on playing spin bowling in the nets over 12-18 months. I guess to see some reward, again it's no surprise, but the guys are doing so much hard work off the field," said Carey.

The match will be played on a Feroz Shah Kotla wicket which may assist slow bowlers. Carey, though, said they are capable of handling whatever is thrown at them.

"We played some local Indian bowlers that we tried in the nets, so I guess it's really a good experience. Guys getting out there in the middle to have the confidence to take on their spinners got to be a great confidence tomorrow."

He said the strength of the Australian team at the moment is that they have plenty of options.

"We take a lot of confidence that we trust the batters to perform their role. When Ashton did that the other night he did really well. They (Indians) are world class bowlers and I am sure they want to bounce back and it's up to our batters to have a game plan to negate that. We trust the players to perform their role and take on the best bowlers in the world and do a good job."

Carey said it will be a contest to watch for since they have the momentum and India would be keen to bounce back after two defeats.

"We were out under pressure early in the series. Some games were really close and now we have the series level at 2-2. It is obviously exciting going into tomorrow with the series on the line. Obviously (we will) take some momentum from the last game. The boys are felling confident.

"India are going to bounce back quickly but I guess for us we thought we played some pretty good cricket in the first two games and we just fell short so to have the series at 2-2, really excited. I am really looking forward to and so are the guys."

Emboldened by Australia's remarkable turnaround in the ODI series against India, vice-captain Alex Carey Tuesday said they are "really confident" of entering the ICC World Cup with a squad good enough to play like defending champions.

Emboldened by Australia's remarkable turnaround in the ODI series against India, vice-captain Alex Carey Tuesday said they are "really confident" of entering the ICC World Cup with a squad good enough to play like defending champions. The five-match series is poised at 2-2, thanks to Australia's back-to-back wins after staring down the barrel at one stage. "As a player in the Australian cricket side we have been working hard in the last 12-18 months. Some success has started to come our way. We are really confident moving with the squad we take to the World Cup," Clarey said on the eve of the series-deciding game here. Carey said it will only add to the strength of the side when Steve Smith and David Warner rejoin the side after serving out their bans. "Those are definitely some big names that might come back into the line. The guys that are in the side are performing well, so it's only healthy for Australian cricket that the guys in the side are playing well and these guys that have done really well in the past have definitely put their hand up for selection when they are available." He said he was not surprised by the way the Australian batsmen tackled India's formidable spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav, who have tormented batters with their guile in recent times. "There has probably been a fair bit of media (analysis) about Australia playing against spin in the past. We have worked really hard on playing spin bowling in the nets over 12-18 months. I guess to see some reward, again it's no surprise, but the guys are doing so much hard work off the field," said Carey. The match will be played on a Feroz Shah Kotla wicket which may assist slow bowlers. Carey, though, said they are capable of handling whatever is thrown at them. "We played some local Indian bowlers that we tried in the nets, so I guess it's really a good experience. Guys getting out there in the middle to have the confidence to take on their spinners got to be a great confidence tomorrow." He said the strength of the Australian team at the moment is that they have plenty of options. "We take a lot of confidence that we trust the batters to perform their role. When Ashton did that the other night he did really well. They (Indians) are world class bowlers and I am sure they want to bounce back and it's up to our batters to have a game plan to negate that. We trust the players to perform their role and take on the best bowlers in the world and do a good job." Carey said it will be a contest to watch for since they have the momentum and India would be keen to bounce back after two defeats. "We were out under pressure early in the series. Some games were really close and now we have the series level at 2-2. It is obviously exciting going into tomorrow with the series on the line. Obviously (we will) take some momentum from the last game. The boys are felling confident. "India are going to bounce back quickly but I guess for us we thought we played some pretty good cricket in the first two games and we just fell short so to have the series at 2-2, really excited. I am really looking forward to and so are the guys."

We are really confident of moving with this Australian squad to 2019 World Cup: Alex Carey

India's assistant coach Sanjay Bangar said that the management wants a right-left combination to fire the top batting, hence left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan plays an important role in India batting plans with the ICC World Cup round the corner.

Dhawan has failed in 14 out of his 16 innings but Bangar feels that more than anything else, it's his shot selection that has let him down.

"In the previous game, he (Dhawan) was batting really well till he erred in shot selection. But from our point of view, he has been an important player," said Bangar.

"If we know that he gets going, he can give us that solidity as it is vital to have that right-left combination going. He is a hugely valuable player for us and he is expected to come good very soon," Bangar added.

Recently, Dhawan has been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts.

Bangar was also sympathetic for Ambati Rayudu, who Friday got a brilliant delivery from Pat Cummins.

"These games are valuable opportunities for all players concerned and even for us so that the players are at their utmost best when we go into the World Cup. Don't forget that in the last game in New Zealand, Rayudu scored a match-winning 90," Bangar said.

"Today's delivery that he got, could have gotten out any batsmen with that pace and low bounce. Players are expected to take chances and that's what we are expecting of every player," Bangar explained.

In the fourth match of the five-match series against Australia, India will look to win series in Mohali on Sunday.

India's assistant coach Sanjay Bangar said that the management wants a right-left combination to fire the top batting, hence left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan plays an important role in India batting plans with the ICC World Cup round the corner.

India's assistant coach Sanjay Bangar said that the management wants a right-left combination to fire the top batting, hence left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan plays an important role in India batting plans with the ICC World Cup round the corner. Dhawan has failed in 14 out of his 16 innings but Bangar feels that more than anything else, it's his shot selection that has let him down. "In the previous game, he (Dhawan) was batting really well till he erred in shot selection. But from our point of view, he has been an important player," said Bangar. "If we know that he gets going, he can give us that solidity as it is vital to have that right-left combination going. He is a hugely valuable player for us and he is expected to come good very soon," Bangar added. Recently, Dhawan has been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts. Bangar was also sympathetic for Ambati Rayudu, who Friday got a brilliant delivery from Pat Cummins. "These games are valuable opportunities for all players concerned and even for us so that the players are at their utmost best when we go into the World Cup. Don't forget that in the last game in New Zealand, Rayudu scored a match-winning 90," Bangar said. "Today's delivery that he got, could have gotten out any batsmen with that pace and low bounce. Players are expected to take chances and that's what we are expecting of every player," Bangar explained. In the fourth match of the five-match series against Australia, India will look to win series in Mohali on Sunday.

Shikhar Dhawan is vital as we need left-right combination at top going: Sanjay Bangar

Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner will come back stronger than ever from their 12-month bans and the latter will be the best player at the World Cup this year, former leg spinner Shane Warne has said.

Smith and Warner were banned by Cricket Australia for 12 months in March last year for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in a test match against South Africa in Cape Town.

Their bans end on March 28 and both players will be reintegrated into the national team after their participation in the Indian Premier League in March and April.

"I think what you are going to see is a pretty quiet David Warner and Steve Smith. They are just going to try and let their bat do the talking and toe the line," Warne told The Telegraph in an interview https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2019/03/09/david-warner-will-best-batsman-2019-world-cup-following-ban.

"I think they will come back better than they were. They're going to come out and destroy attacks and I back David Warner to be the player of the World Cup.

"Warner overstepped the line a lot in his early career. He then changed into a more placid player but was then told by Cricket Australia to be the enforcer and was doing what he was told."

Warne expects the duo to return with renewed vigour, like he did after his 12-month ban for failing a drugs test in 2003. Warne was suspended for taking a banned diuretic and missed Australia's World Cup-winning campaign as a result.

"All I can go on is experience having a year off myself. The next four years were the best I ever had," Warne, who took 708 wickets for Australia in 145 test matches, added.

"I was hungry for the game. My body and mind were fresh and it is amazing how excited you are to play again.

"You get excited just going to the nets again because you have taken it for granted in the past."

Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner will come back stronger than ever from their 12-month bans and the latter will be the best player at the World Cup this year, former leg spinner Shane Warne has said.

Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner will come back stronger than ever from their 12-month bans and the latter will be the best player at the World Cup this year, former leg spinner Shane Warne has said. Smith and Warner were banned by Cricket Australia for 12 months in March last year for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in a test match against South Africa in Cape Town. Their bans end on March 28 and both players will be reintegrated into the national team after their participation in the Indian Premier League in March and April. "I think what you are going to see is a pretty quiet David Warner and Steve Smith. They are just going to try and let their bat do the talking and toe the line," Warne told The Telegraph in an interview https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2019/03/09/david-warner-will-best-batsman-2019-world-cup-following-ban. "I think they will come back better than they were. They're going to come out and destroy attacks and I back David Warner to be the player of the World Cup. "Warner overstepped the line a lot in his early career. He then changed into a more placid player but was then told by Cricket Australia to be the enforcer and was doing what he was told." Warne expects the duo to return with renewed vigour, like he did after his 12-month ban for failing a drugs test in 2003. Warne was suspended for taking a banned diuretic and missed Australia's World Cup-winning campaign as a result. "All I can go on is experience having a year off myself. The next four years were the best I ever had," Warne, who took 708 wickets for Australia in 145 test matches, added. "I was hungry for the game. My body and mind were fresh and it is amazing how excited you are to play again. "You get excited just going to the nets again because you have taken it for granted in the past."

Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner will return stronger from bans: Shane Warne

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir said on Monday he would retire from one-day international cricket after the World Cup in England and Wales, which ends on July 14.

But he said he would like to continue playing for South Africa in Twenty20 Internationals.

Tahir, who will turn 40 later this month, played a starring role for South Africa, taking three for 26, in their eight-wicket win in the first one-day international against Sri Lanka at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.

His performance drew attention to the fact that he was not on the list of contracted players for the 2019/20 year released by Cricket South Africa last week.

But he revealed on Monday that he had reached an agreement with CSA for his contract to expire at the end of July, extending his 2018/19 contract by three months.

In a statement released by CSA, Tahir said he would re-assess his freelance future after the World Cup.

"I have always wanted to play in the World Cup," he said. “I have a mutual understanding with Cricket South Africa and going forward I decided that I would finish at the World Cup, that is why I am contracted until then. After that, Cricket South Africa has allowed me to go and play around the world in various leagues but I would also love to play T20 cricket for South Africa."

Tahir said retiring from one-day internationals was a difficult decision. "I would love to play for as long as I can," he said, "but there is a stage in your life where you have to make big decisions."

He said, though, that he would like to play for South Africa in the 2020 ICC T20 World Cup in Australia.

Tahir, who has taken 156 wickets in 95 one-day internationals, played in the 2011 and 2015 World Cups. He also played in the 2014 and 2016 World T20 tournaments.

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir said on Monday he would retire from one-day international cricket after the World Cup in England and Wales, which ends on July 14.

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir said on Monday he would retire from one-day international cricket after the World Cup in England and Wales, which ends on July 14. But he said he would like to continue playing for South Africa in Twenty20 Internationals. Tahir, who will turn 40 later this month, played a starring role for South Africa, taking three for 26, in their eight-wicket win in the first one-day international against Sri Lanka at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. His performance drew attention to the fact that he was not on the list of contracted players for the 2019/20 year released by Cricket South Africa last week. But he revealed on Monday that he had reached an agreement with CSA for his contract to expire at the end of July, extending his 2018/19 contract by three months. In a statement released by CSA, Tahir said he would re-assess his freelance future after the World Cup. "I have always wanted to play in the World Cup," he said. “I have a mutual understanding with Cricket South Africa and going forward I decided that I would finish at the World Cup, that is why I am contracted until then. After that, Cricket South Africa has allowed me to go and play around the world in various leagues but I would also love to play T20 cricket for South Africa." Tahir said retiring from one-day internationals was a difficult decision. "I would love to play for as long as I can," he said, "but there is a stage in your life where you have to make big decisions." He said, though, that he would like to play for South Africa in the 2020 ICC T20 World Cup in Australia. Tahir, who has taken 156 wickets in 95 one-day internationals, played in the 2011 and 2015 World Cups. He also played in the 2014 and 2016 World T20 tournaments.

Imran Tahir to quit one-day international cricket after World Cup 2019

The Indian cricket board has been asked by the ICC to bear a tax liability to the tune of USD 21 million (Rs 150 crore) for conducting future global events like the 2021 World T20 and 2023 ODI World Cup.

The BCCI representatives have apparently asked for time till the completion of general elections, which has been granted by the parent body.

The International Cricket Council gets tax exemption from member nations for conducting global events but it didn't get any for the 2016 World T20 as Indian tax laws don't allow any such leeway.

Incidentally, non-tax exemption was one of the major reasons why the Formula One race was pulled out of India.

The issue has persisted between the global body and its richest member board and also came up for discussion at the recent ICC quarterly meeting.

It has been learnt that ICC chairman Shashank Manohar has told the BCCI that as per its rules, the Indian board will have to pay the tax liability in case it is not able to get tax exemption.

"Mr Manohar has categorically said that tax exemption is something BCCI needs to figure out," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

"Since this is about tax laws and it can change with time, the BCCI thinks it's prudent to wait till the general elections get over and take it from there," he said.

There is a school of thought in the BCCI that they would ask the various sponsors to share the tax burden, which will be beneficial for all the parties.

"There is a clause in the contract, where the sponsors may have to carry the burden of tax in case the hosting nation doesn't have tax exemption laws. So

BCCI will be within their rights to ask the various sponsors to share the burden," the official said.

When CoA chief Vinod Rai was asked about the issue, he said, "Tax laws are complicated. I will only comment on the issue once I am aware of all the details. However, I don't think it's an issue that can't be sorted out."

The Indian cricket board has been asked by the ICC to bear a tax liability to the tune of USD 21 million (Rs 150 crore) for conducting future global events like the 2021 World T20 and 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian cricket board has been asked by the ICC to bear a tax liability to the tune of USD 21 million (Rs 150 crore) for conducting future global events like the 2021 World T20 and 2023 ODI World Cup. The BCCI representatives have apparently asked for time till the completion of general elections, which has been granted by the parent body. The International Cricket Council gets tax exemption from member nations for conducting global events but it didn't get any for the 2016 World T20 as Indian tax laws don't allow any such leeway. Incidentally, non-tax exemption was one of the major reasons why the Formula One race was pulled out of India. The issue has persisted between the global body and its richest member board and also came up for discussion at the recent ICC quarterly meeting. It has been learnt that ICC chairman Shashank Manohar has told the BCCI that as per its rules, the Indian board will have to pay the tax liability in case it is not able to get tax exemption. "Mr Manohar has categorically said that tax exemption is something BCCI needs to figure out," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "Since this is about tax laws and it can change with time, the BCCI thinks it's prudent to wait till the general elections get over and take it from there," he said. There is a school of thought in the BCCI that they would ask the various sponsors to share the tax burden, which will be beneficial for all the parties. "There is a clause in the contract, where the sponsors may have to carry the burden of tax in case the hosting nation doesn't have tax exemption laws. So BCCI will be within their rights to ask the various sponsors to share the burden," the official said. When CoA chief Vinod Rai was asked about the issue, he said, "Tax laws are complicated. I will only comment on the issue once I am aware of all the details. However, I don't think it's an issue that can't be sorted out."

If there is no tax exemption, BCCI will have to carry burden for global events

Chris&nbsp;Gayle&nbsp;said the West Indies will "get a bit of respect" at this year's World Cup after claiming a 2-2 series draw with tournament hosts and favourites England on Saturday.

Oshane Thomas and&nbsp;Gayle&nbsp;starred as the Windies thrashed England by seven wickets in the fifth and final one-day international in St Lucia.

Thomas claimed five for 21 with the tourists being demolished for 113 off 28.1 overs –- their lowest-ever total in an ODI against the Caribbean side -- just three days after scoring 418 in the fourth match in Grenada.

Gayle&nbsp;signed off on his ODI career in the region with a blistering 77 off just 27 balls to catapult his side to victory with almost 38 overs to spare in reaching 115 for three off 12.1 overs.

The 39-year-old was the obvious choice for the man-of-the-series award given his utter dominance with the bat in every innings of the four matches, scoring 424 runs at an average of 106, with 39 sixes.

"At one stage I thought this is going to be my last (ODI) innings in the Caribbean for the West Indies, so I thought I'd go out on a high," said&nbsp;Gayle.

"We'll get a bit of respect going into the World Cup."

The West Indies have belied their lowly ranking of ninth against top-ranked England and the fact they scraped through World Cup qualifying in Zimbabwe last year.

Jason Holder's men will kick off their bid for a third World Cup title on May 31 against Pakistan at Trent Bridge, the day after England open the tournament against South Africa.

England's batting folds

Playing just his ninth ODI, Thomas destroyed the visitors' vaunted batting line-up with career-best figures despite coming on as the fourth bowler in the line-up.

Carlos Brathwaite and captain Holder took two wickets each in support of the burly fast bowler to fully justify Holder's decision to bowl first on winning the toss.

In a must-win situation after losing a high-scoring fourth game, the West Indies pace attack exploited a bouncy pitch and exposed the England batsmen's technical shortcomings in these conditions.

Alex Hales and Jos Buttler were the top-scorers, each scoring only 23.

Captain Eoin Morgan was next best with 18 as the batting folded swiftly in the face of Thomas' assault.

"We struggled to adapt to the extra bounce, it's not something that we're accustomed to," said Morgan.

"It's difficult to curb what has been our natural reaction (to batting). We need to find a way to occupy the crease and score runs."

England lost their last five wickets for only two runs with none of the final four batsmen managing to get off the mark.

Though he picked up just one wicket, Sheldon Cottrell got the wicket-taking feast underway for the West Indies when the left-arm seamer bowled Jonny Bairstow off an inside-edge after an opening partnership of 23 with Hales.

Hales and Morgan featured in the best partnership of the innings -- 39 for the third wicket -- but it was merely a brief respite.

Despite the extent of their dominance, Holder still indulged in four overs of spin via Ashley Nurse, the off-spinner proving the most expensive in conceding 24 runs from four wicketless overs.

Brutal&nbsp;Gayle

With such a small target ahead of them,&nbsp;Gayle&nbsp;made his intentions quickly, and brutally, clear.

Chris&nbsp;Woakes was the first to suffer the weight of his bat but the other opening bowler, Mark Wood, also came under the hammer as the opener heaved nine sixes and five fours in a devastating innings.

On the same ground where his raw pace brought a five-wicket haul and a consolation victory in the final Test of the preceding three-match series, Wood was able to at least terminate the&nbsp;Gayle&nbsp;carnage by dismissing the left-hander having previously accounted for the other opener, John Campbell.

West Indies went into the match with an unchanged team, surprisingly choosing to omit all-rounder Andre Russell once again even though he had flown in from the Pakistan Super League in Dubai earlier in the week to be part of the squad for the final two matches.

England were forced to make one change from the win on Wednesday, all-rounder Tom Curran replacing injured seamer Liam Plunkett.

Chris Gayle said the West Indies will "get a bit of respect" at this year's World Cup after claiming a 2-2 series draw with tournament hosts and favourites England on Saturday.

Chris Gayle said the West Indies will "get a bit of respect" at this year's World Cup after claiming a 2-2 series draw with tournament hosts and favourites England on Saturday. Oshane Thomas and Gayle starred as the Windies thrashed England by seven wickets in the fifth and final one-day international in St Lucia. Thomas claimed five for 21 with the tourists being demolished for 113 off 28.1 overs –- their lowest-ever total in an ODI against the Caribbean side -- just three days after scoring 418 in the fourth match in Grenada. Gayle signed off on his ODI career in the region with a blistering 77 off just 27 balls to catapult his side to victory with almost 38 overs to spare in reaching 115 for three off 12.1 overs. The 39-year-old was the obvious choice for the man-of-the-series award given his utter dominance with the bat in every innings of the four matches, scoring 424 runs at an average of 106, with 39 sixes. "At one stage I thought this is going to be my last (ODI) innings in the Caribbean for the West Indies, so I thought I'd go out on a high," said Gayle. "We'll get a bit of respect going into the World Cup." The West Indies have belied their lowly ranking of ninth against top-ranked England and the fact they scraped through World Cup qualifying in Zimbabwe last year. Jason Holder's men will kick off their bid for a third World Cup title on May 31 against Pakistan at Trent Bridge, the day after England open the tournament against South Africa. England's batting folds Playing just his ninth ODI, Thomas destroyed the visitors' vaunted batting line-up with career-best figures despite coming on as the fourth bowler in the line-up. Carlos Brathwaite and captain Holder took two wickets each in support of the burly fast bowler to fully justify Holder's decision to bowl first on winning the toss. In a must-win situation after losing a high-scoring fourth game, the West Indies pace attack exploited a bouncy pitch and exposed the England batsmen's technical shortcomings in these conditions. Alex Hales and Jos Buttler were the top-scorers, each scoring only 23. Captain Eoin Morgan was next best with 18 as the batting folded swiftly in the face of Thomas' assault. "We struggled to adapt to the extra bounce, it's not something that we're accustomed to," said Morgan. "It's difficult to curb what has been our natural reaction (to batting). We need to find a way to occupy the crease and score runs." England lost their last five wickets for only two runs with none of the final four batsmen managing to get off the mark. Though he picked up just one wicket, Sheldon Cottrell got the wicket-taking feast underway for the West Indies when the left-arm seamer bowled Jonny Bairstow off an inside-edge after an opening partnership of 23 with Hales. Hales and Morgan featured in the best partnership of the innings -- 39 for the third wicket -- but it was merely a brief respite. Despite the extent of their dominance, Holder still indulged in four overs of spin via Ashley Nurse, the off-spinner proving the most expensive in conceding 24 runs from four wicketless overs. Brutal Gayle With such a small target ahead of them, Gayle made his intentions quickly, and brutally, clear. Chris Woakes was the first to suffer the weight of his bat but the other opening bowler, Mark Wood, also came under the hammer as the opener heaved nine sixes and five fours in a devastating innings. On the same ground where his raw pace brought a five-wicket haul and a consolation victory in the final Test of the preceding three-match series, Wood was able to at least terminate the Gayle carnage by dismissing the left-hander having previously accounted for the other opener, John Campbell. West Indies went into the match with an unchanged team, surprisingly choosing to omit all-rounder Andre Russell once again even though he had flown in from the Pakistan Super League in Dubai earlier in the week to be part of the squad for the final two matches. England were forced to make one change from the win on Wednesday, all-rounder Tom Curran replacing injured seamer Liam Plunkett.

Chris Gayle sends 'respect Windies' World Cup warning

The International Cricket Council has turned down the BCCI's request to sever ties with countries from which "terrorism emanates", saying the ICC has no role to play in matters like these.

In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed, the BCCI, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-writes-letter-to-icc-to-express-concerns-over-security-of-indian-players-heading-into-world-cup-199011">in a letter to the ICC</a>, urged the world body and its member nations to sever ties with countries which harbour terror.

"There was no chance that anything like that would have happened. The ICC chairman made it clear that the decision to ostracize a nation is taken at the government level and ICC had no rule. The BCCI knew it all along but still took a chance," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

The BCCI letter did not make a specific reference to Pakistan, which has been accused of harbouring terrorists by India.&nbsp;

The issue came up during Saturday's ICC board meeting chaired by chairman Shashank Manohar but not much time was spent on it.

The BCCI was represented at the board by acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary.

"So many players from member nations play the Pakistan Super League and they would have never entertained such a request. Yes, security was a concern and it had been duly addressed," the Board official added.

The Indian cricket team is scheduled to play Pakistan in the World Cup on June 16. There have been calls to boycott the clash in the wake of the heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries following the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

The demand has been made by some of the biggest names in Indian cricket such as Harbhajan Singh and Sourav Ganguly.

However, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) running Indian cricket has so far not taken any decision on the matter, saying that it will seek the government's view.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council has turned down the BCCI's request to sever ties with countries from which "terrorism emanates", saying the ICC has no role to play in matters like these.

The International Cricket Council has turned down the BCCI's request to sever ties with countries from which "terrorism emanates", saying the ICC has no role to play in matters like these. In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed, the BCCI, in a letter to the ICC, urged the world body and its member nations to sever ties with countries which harbour terror. "There was no chance that anything like that would have happened. The ICC chairman made it clear that the decision to ostracize a nation is taken at the government level and ICC had no rule. The BCCI knew it all along but still took a chance," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. The BCCI letter did not make a specific reference to Pakistan, which has been accused of harbouring terrorists by India. The issue came up during Saturday's ICC board meeting chaired by chairman Shashank Manohar but not much time was spent on it. The BCCI was represented at the board by acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary. "So many players from member nations play the Pakistan Super League and they would have never entertained such a request. Yes, security was a concern and it had been duly addressed," the Board official added. The Indian cricket team is scheduled to play Pakistan in the World Cup on June 16. There have been calls to boycott the clash in the wake of the heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries following the Pulwama attack. The demand has been made by some of the biggest names in Indian cricket such as Harbhajan Singh and Sourav Ganguly. However, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) running Indian cricket has so far not taken any decision on the matter, saying that it will seek the government's view.

Severing cricketing ties with nations not our domain: ICC tells BCCI

Steve&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;has returned to the nets after elbow surgery, with Australia coach Justin Langer expecting the banned former captain and his deputy David Warner to be fit for the Indian Premier League.

Smith&nbsp;went under the knife in January after being forced to drop out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament with a ligament problem.

He has been in a brace since, but picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

"Great to have my first hit back. The elbow is feeling good,"&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;posted to his 1.4 million Instagram followers with a short video early Friday.

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BubKVz4hB2H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Great to have my first hit back today. The elbow is feeling good! 😀</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/steve_smith49/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Steve Smith</a> (@steve_smith49) on <time datetime="2019-02-28T11:53:47+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 28, 2019 at 3:53am PST</time>
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Smith&nbsp;and Warner become eligible for international selection again on March 29 after serving year-long bans for their part in attempting to alter the ball during a Test against South Africa.

Warner also returned home from Bangladesh with an injured elbow, though less serious than&nbsp;Smith. He too had surgery and was also at the SCG on Thursday.

He crossed paths there with former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel, who has settled in Sydney with his wife.

Morkel was training at the ground ahead of a stint with English county side Surrey, and told the Cricket Australia website that having&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;and Warner back would be good for the game.

"It's the first time I've seen Davey since South Africa," Morkel said, referring to the Cape Town Test where the tampering scandal unfolded and Warner and&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;were sent home in disgrace.

"Obviously as a cricket supporter I'm rapt for him to get back on the field. It will be great to see him and&nbsp;Steve&nbsp;(Smith) play and it will be great for Australia as well."

Langer told Australian media in India, where the team is playing a Twenty20 and one-day series, that he expected both players to be fit for the IPL, which starts late this month.

"From all accounts they should both be ready for the IPL, which is really positive," he said.

"Dave's probably a little more advanced but my understanding is they'll be ready to go in the not-too-distant future."

Langer added that "I speak to them all the time".

Once their bans expire, both players will be eligible for the final two games of Australia's five-match ODI series against Pakistan in the UAE next month.

The squad for that series has yet to be announced, although the general consensus in Australia is that they will instead play the IPL to prepare themselves for the World Cup in England.

Steve Smith has returned to the nets after elbow surgery, with Australia coach Justin Langer expecting the banned former captain and his deputy David Warner to be fit for the Indian Premier League.

Steve Smith has returned to the nets after elbow surgery, with Australia coach Justin Langer expecting the banned former captain and his deputy David Warner to be fit for the Indian Premier League. Smith went under the knife in January after being forced to drop out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament with a ligament problem. He has been in a brace since, but picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. "Great to have my first hit back. The elbow is feeling good," Smith posted to his 1.4 million Instagram followers with a short video early Friday. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram Great to have my first hit back today. The elbow is feeling good! 😀 A post shared by Steve Smith (@steve_smith49) on Feb 28, 2019 at 3:53am PST × Smith and Warner become eligible for international selection again on March 29 after serving year-long bans for their part in attempting to alter the ball during a Test against South Africa. Warner also returned home from Bangladesh with an injured elbow, though less serious than Smith. He too had surgery and was also at the SCG on Thursday. He crossed paths there with former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel, who has settled in Sydney with his wife. Morkel was training at the ground ahead of a stint with English county side Surrey, and told the Cricket Australia website that having Smith and Warner back would be good for the game. "It's the first time I've seen Davey since South Africa," Morkel said, referring to the Cape Town Test where the tampering scandal unfolded and Warner and Smith were sent home in disgrace. "Obviously as a cricket supporter I'm rapt for him to get back on the field. It will be great to see him and Steve (Smith) play and it will be great for Australia as well." Langer told Australian media in India, where the team is playing a Twenty20 and one-day series, that he expected both players to be fit for the IPL, which starts late this month. "From all accounts they should both be ready for the IPL, which is really positive," he said. "Dave's probably a little more advanced but my understanding is they'll be ready to go in the not-too-distant future." Langer added that "I speak to them all the time". Once their bans expire, both players will be eligible for the final two games of Australia's five-match ODI series against Pakistan in the UAE next month. The squad for that series has yet to be announced, although the general consensus in Australia is that they will instead play the IPL to prepare themselves for the World Cup in England.

Watch: Steve Smith 'feeling good' as he is back in nets after elbow surgery

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.&nbsp;

India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January.&nbsp;

Chief selector MSK&nbsp;Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in&nbsp;the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales.&nbsp;

The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache".&nbsp;

"What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible."&nbsp;

Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia.&nbsp;

"I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan.&nbsp;

Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions.&nbsp;

Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month.

"We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch.

Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India.

Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event. India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January. Chief selector MSK Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales. The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache". "What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible." Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia. "I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions. Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month. "We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch. Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India. Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli to evaluate World Cup plans against defending champions

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE.

After the conclusion of the ODI series against India, the defending World Champions will take on Pakistan in the five-match series with the fourth and fifth ODIs slated on March 29 and 31 respectively.

Smith and Warner, both recuperating from elbow surgeries, will find their suspension end on March 29 but there are still serious doubts whether they will play the mega event or not. Smith has just started knocking and will take some more time to get fit.

"I don't think David Warner or Steve Smith will play that game (March 29). I am not a hundred percent sure on that but I don't think they will play that last one or two games," Finch said on the eve of the first ODI.

He also curtly put it when a reporter asked if he sees himself as a stand-in captain now that both Smith and Warner are set to be back.

"No, no, I am the captain, yeah," was his blunt response.

Just like Indian team is trying to balance the workload of its players, Australia are also grappling with similar problems with Ashes starting after the World Cup.

Asked about pacer Pat Cummins' workload, Finch said: "He bowled a lot throughout the Australian summer, particularly at the back end of the India Test series. "I think having no cricket in April will help guys like Pat to freshen up. Again someone like (Mitchell) Starc, who has played no cricket needs to bowl. The workload of our fast bowlers need to be balanced."

But playing 10 ODIs in a month (India and Pakistan series in March) is quite unprecedented in Australian cricket, said Finch.

"Playing 10 ODIs in a month is quite an unchartered territory for our fast bowlers. There will be a mix and match managing the workload."

Young batsman Ashton Turner is set to make his debut and the skipper is excited about that prospect.

"Ashton Turner is a guy who will be making his debut in ODI cricket. We have seen how destructive he can be in domestic cricket, so really excited to see him get a go in international cricket as he is such a smart player.

"He is a diverse player who can bat in top couple or down the order. He is game smart and manage situations. He will be an important player, someone I am very interested to see."

It is the settled unit that makes India a very strong ODI side not only at home but in all conditions.

"It's a good question. Their batting is really strong. They have got in Virat, arguably the best player of all time in ODI cricket. Rohit has been in good form.

They have quicks, who move the ball upfront and execute really well at the death. They play well everywhere to be pretty fair," Finch said.

"I think when you have a team that has played together for a long time, they understand each other well. Probably a settled group of 14 or 15 very good players are playing for a long time. That goes a long way as to why they have been so successful in particular," he elaborated.

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE.

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE. After the conclusion of the ODI series against India, the defending World Champions will take on Pakistan in the five-match series with the fourth and fifth ODIs slated on March 29 and 31 respectively. Smith and Warner, both recuperating from elbow surgeries, will find their suspension end on March 29 but there are still serious doubts whether they will play the mega event or not. Smith has just started knocking and will take some more time to get fit. "I don't think David Warner or Steve Smith will play that game (March 29). I am not a hundred percent sure on that but I don't think they will play that last one or two games," Finch said on the eve of the first ODI. He also curtly put it when a reporter asked if he sees himself as a stand-in captain now that both Smith and Warner are set to be back. "No, no, I am the captain, yeah," was his blunt response. Just like Indian team is trying to balance the workload of its players, Australia are also grappling with similar problems with Ashes starting after the World Cup. Asked about pacer Pat Cummins' workload, Finch said: "He bowled a lot throughout the Australian summer, particularly at the back end of the India Test series. "I think having no cricket in April will help guys like Pat to freshen up. Again someone like (Mitchell) Starc, who has played no cricket needs to bowl. The workload of our fast bowlers need to be balanced." But playing 10 ODIs in a month (India and Pakistan series in March) is quite unprecedented in Australian cricket, said Finch. "Playing 10 ODIs in a month is quite an unchartered territory for our fast bowlers. There will be a mix and match managing the workload." Young batsman Ashton Turner is set to make his debut and the skipper is excited about that prospect. "Ashton Turner is a guy who will be making his debut in ODI cricket. We have seen how destructive he can be in domestic cricket, so really excited to see him get a go in international cricket as he is such a smart player. "He is a diverse player who can bat in top couple or down the order. He is game smart and manage situations. He will be an important player, someone I am very interested to see." It is the settled unit that makes India a very strong ODI side not only at home but in all conditions. "It's a good question. Their batting is really strong. They have got in Virat, arguably the best player of all time in ODI cricket. Rohit has been in good form. They have quicks, who move the ball upfront and execute really well at the death. They play well everywhere to be pretty fair," Finch said. "I think when you have a team that has played together for a long time, they understand each other well. Probably a settled group of 14 or 15 very good players are playing for a long time. That goes a long way as to why they have been so successful in particular," he elaborated.

Steve Smith, David Warner unlikely to play last 2 ODIs against Pakistan: Aaron Finch

Cricket's global body, the&nbsp;International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams.&nbsp;

The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30.&nbsp;

In a media release, ICC said that incidents of financial scams have always been reported during global events.&nbsp;

"The ICC stress there is no such competition, lottery or promotion associated with ICC or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 and that any approaches via e-mail in the UK should be reported to Action Fraud online here or by calling 0300 123 2040," ICC said in a release.&nbsp;

"Approaches outside of the UK should be reported to enquiries@icc-cricket.Com. The ICC or CWC19 will never ask for confidential information of this kind from you in an email."&nbsp;

"Illegal scammers contact people, usually via email, claiming that they have won a cash prize via a lottery or competition and requiring the person to share a range of personal information, including their name, age, bank account and passport details. The victim is often asked to pay a fee to obtain the prize money," ICC said.

The ICC also recommended some actions against fraud and noted the online resources which are available for victims of fraud.

Cricket's global body, the International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams. The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30.

Cricket's global body, the International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams. The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30. In a media release, ICC said that incidents of financial scams have always been reported during global events. "The ICC stress there is no such competition, lottery or promotion associated with ICC or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 and that any approaches via e-mail in the UK should be reported to Action Fraud online here or by calling 0300 123 2040," ICC said in a release. "Approaches outside of the UK should be reported to enquiries@icc-cricket.Com. The ICC or CWC19 will never ask for confidential information of this kind from you in an email." "Illegal scammers contact people, usually via email, claiming that they have won a cash prize via a lottery or competition and requiring the person to share a range of personal information, including their name, age, bank account and passport details. The victim is often asked to pay a fee to obtain the prize money," ICC said. The ICC also recommended some actions against fraud and noted the online resources which are available for victims of fraud.

ICC warns cricket fans against financial scams during World Cup

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday.&nbsp;

More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack which led to demands that India should boycott the Pakistan game in the World Cup in Manchester on June 16.

Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket wrote a letter to the ICC urging it boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates" but did not specifically name Pakistan.&nbsp;

The quarterly meeting of the ICC will start in Dubai on Wednesday with the Chief Executives (CEC) meeting where BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's letter will be tabled and the matter will be discussed.

The BCCI had expressed its concern about the safety of the players and officials during the World Cup which starts May 30 in England.&nbsp;

"The ICC will provide all the details of the security arrangements made for the World Cup. It will be same for all the participating nations and England and Wales Cricket

Board have always provided top-notch arrangements," a senior BCCI official privy to the ICC's functioning told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;

"But since there has been an apprehension, the doubts will be cleared," the official added.

However, it is learnt that ICC is unlikely to even discuss the possibility of boycotting Pakistan as it is not a "feasible option".

"The ICC is in no position to ask any cricket board to sever ties with another member nation. It doesn't have the right to do so. This is a diplomatic issue which is dealt with at the government level.

"A member board can always discuss the issue if they want but one can be rest assured that nothing will happen," said the official, who has been a part of many ICC meetings.

Opinion has been divided on the calls for boycott with former India captain Sourav Ganguly and senior off-spinner Harbhajan Singh wanting the June 16 match to be called off.

However, they haven't clarified what happens if Pakistan make it to the semifinals or the final.

On the other hand, two of the biggest names in Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, want India to beat Pakistan as a walkover would mean giving two points on a platter to the arch-rivals.

Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri have maintained that they will "abide by whatever decision the government takes."&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday. More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack which led to demands that India should boycott the Pakistan game in the World Cup in Manchester on June 16. Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket wrote a letter to the ICC urging it boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates" but did not specifically name Pakistan. The quarterly meeting of the ICC will start in Dubai on Wednesday with the Chief Executives (CEC) meeting where BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's letter will be tabled and the matter will be discussed. The BCCI had expressed its concern about the safety of the players and officials during the World Cup which starts May 30 in England. "The ICC will provide all the details of the security arrangements made for the World Cup. It will be same for all the participating nations and England and Wales Cricket Board have always provided top-notch arrangements," a senior BCCI official privy to the ICC's functioning told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "But since there has been an apprehension, the doubts will be cleared," the official added. However, it is learnt that ICC is unlikely to even discuss the possibility of boycotting Pakistan as it is not a "feasible option". "The ICC is in no position to ask any cricket board to sever ties with another member nation. It doesn't have the right to do so. This is a diplomatic issue which is dealt with at the government level. "A member board can always discuss the issue if they want but one can be rest assured that nothing will happen," said the official, who has been a part of many ICC meetings. Opinion has been divided on the calls for boycott with former India captain Sourav Ganguly and senior off-spinner Harbhajan Singh wanting the June 16 match to be called off. However, they haven't clarified what happens if Pakistan make it to the semifinals or the final. On the other hand, two of the biggest names in Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, want India to beat Pakistan as a walkover would mean giving two points on a platter to the arch-rivals. Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri have maintained that they will "abide by whatever decision the government takes."

CEC meet: ICC unlikely to discuss boycott of Pakistan from 2019 World Cup

Glenn Maxwell issued a timely reminder of his worth with a decisive half-century in Australia's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-australia-beat-india-by-three-wickets-in-last-ball-thriller-lead-series-1-0-199415">first Twenty20 against India</a> but believes he has more work to do to secure a ticket to the 50-over World Cup.

On a difficult pitch in Visakhapatnam, Maxwell came to the crease with Australia vulnerable at five for two in their chase of India's 126 and his 43-ball 56 anchored an 84-run third wicket stand that steadied Australia.

But being Maxwell, Australia's infuriating genius, there was a less laudable sub-plot at play as he threw away his wicket by heaving at a wide legbreak from Yuzvendra Chahal that went to the long-off fielder.

The dismissal triggered a collapse as Australia lost four wickets for 24 runs and had to rely on the cool heads of tailenders Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson to smash 14 runs in the final over and squeeze the three-wicket win.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/some-days-execution-in-death-bowling-doesnt-come-off-jasprit-bumrah-199599">Some days execution in death bowling doesn't come off, says Jasprit Bumrah</a>

Instead of soaking up a key role in what should have been an easy victory, Maxwell was left sweating to the final ball.

"We probably should have lost and if it wasn't for Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson pulling something out of the hat," the relieved 30-year-old said.

The glass-half-full brigade will focus on Maxwell's studious innings that pulled Australia out of the fire, but the half-empty types will carp that he should have gone on with it and remains too risky a player to rely on at the World Cup in England and Wales.

Maxwell, himself, remains unaware of his standing in Aaron Finch's one-day squad, for all his past heroics in Australia's 2015 World Cup triumph on home soil, when he was the team's third-highest run scorer behind Steve Smith and David Warner.

"I have no idea if I'm going to be in that World Cup squad or what number I'm going to bat, so I suppose it just comes down to opportunity - if I can keep making most of the opportunities like tonight," he said.

"It would have been nice to finish it off, but I chose that Chahal (over) as my time to go tonight and I still back that as the right decision," added Maxwell.

Australia meet India in the second T20 in Bengaluru on Wednesday before starting a five-match ODI series in Hyderabad on Saturday (February 24).

Glenn Maxwell issued a timely reminder of his worth with a decisive half-century in Australia's first Twenty20 against India but believes he has more work to do to secure a ticket to the 50-over World Cup.

Glenn Maxwell issued a timely reminder of his worth with a decisive half-century in Australia's first Twenty20 against India but believes he has more work to do to secure a ticket to the 50-over World Cup. On a difficult pitch in Visakhapatnam, Maxwell came to the crease with Australia vulnerable at five for two in their chase of India's 126 and his 43-ball 56 anchored an 84-run third wicket stand that steadied Australia. But being Maxwell, Australia's infuriating genius, there was a less laudable sub-plot at play as he threw away his wicket by heaving at a wide legbreak from Yuzvendra Chahal that went to the long-off fielder. The dismissal triggered a collapse as Australia lost four wickets for 24 runs and had to rely on the cool heads of tailenders Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson to smash 14 runs in the final over and squeeze the three-wicket win. Also Read: Some days execution in death bowling doesn't come off, says Jasprit Bumrah Instead of soaking up a key role in what should have been an easy victory, Maxwell was left sweating to the final ball. "We probably should have lost and if it wasn't for Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson pulling something out of the hat," the relieved 30-year-old said. The glass-half-full brigade will focus on Maxwell's studious innings that pulled Australia out of the fire, but the half-empty types will carp that he should have gone on with it and remains too risky a player to rely on at the World Cup in England and Wales. Maxwell, himself, remains unaware of his standing in Aaron Finch's one-day squad, for all his past heroics in Australia's 2015 World Cup triumph on home soil, when he was the team's third-highest run scorer behind Steve Smith and David Warner. "I have no idea if I'm going to be in that World Cup squad or what number I'm going to bat, so I suppose it just comes down to opportunity - if I can keep making most of the opportunities like tonight," he said. "It would have been nice to finish it off, but I chose that Chahal (over) as my time to go tonight and I still back that as the right decision," added Maxwell. Australia meet India in the second T20 in Bengaluru on Wednesday before starting a five-match ODI series in Hyderabad on Saturday (February 24).

Glenn Maxwell unaware of place in World Cup pecking order

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.&nbsp;

The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales.

With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list.

Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list.

Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself.

For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury.

Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia.

The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs.

With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered.

Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin.

While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times.&nbsp;

However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony.&nbsp;

India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport.

It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0.&nbsp;

But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May.

Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats.

He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship.&nbsp;

Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games.

The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17.

Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate).&nbsp;

He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75).&nbsp;

The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.&nbsp;

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday. The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales. With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list. Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list. Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself. For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury. Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia. The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs. With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered. Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin. While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times. However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony. India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport. It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0. But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May. Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats. He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship. Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games. The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17. Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate). He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75). The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.

INDvsAUS, 1st T20I: Keeping World Cup in mind, India & Australia set to lock horns

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