Cricket's governing body postponed a swathe of qualifiers for next year's Twenty20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup on Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on international sport.

All qualifiers scheduled to take place before July in Kuwait, South Africa, Namibia, Spain, Papua New Guinea, Belgium, Malaysia and Finland are affected, a statement said.

"The decision has been taken in conjunction with members and in line with the relevant government and public health authority advice," the International Cricket Council said.

India will host the T20 World Cup, a revamped version of the former Champions Trophy, in October-November of 2021. It is not to be confused with this year's T20 World Cup in Australia.&nbsp;

India will also hold the 50-over World Cup in 2023.

This year's Indian Premier League, the world's richest cricket league, is one of the many sports events worldwide to be postponed including the Tokyo Olympics, which have been delayed until next year.

The ICC said this year's remaining qualifiers are being "continually monitored".

Cricket's governing body postponed a swathe of qualifiers for next year's Twenty20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup on Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on international sport.

Cricket's governing body postponed a swathe of qualifiers for next year's Twenty20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup on Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on international sport. All qualifiers scheduled to take place before July in Kuwait, South Africa, Namibia, Spain, Papua New Guinea, Belgium, Malaysia and Finland are affected, a statement said. "The decision has been taken in conjunction with members and in line with the relevant government and public health authority advice," the International Cricket Council said. India will host the T20 World Cup, a revamped version of the former Champions Trophy, in October-November of 2021. It is not to be confused with this year's T20 World Cup in Australia. India will also hold the 50-over World Cup in 2023. This year's Indian Premier League, the world's richest cricket league, is one of the many sports events worldwide to be postponed including the Tokyo Olympics, which have been delayed until next year. The ICC said this year's remaining qualifiers are being "continually monitored".

ICC shuts down World Cup cricket qualifiers till July

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Unlike other tournaments, the ICC World Test Championship is to be played in two years with every Test-playing nation playing home and away series as per the schedule. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left everything shattered. While there has been no confirmation on how the ICC is planning to conduct the event now, an ICC spokesperson has said that the apex cricketing body is ‘considering the options available’ relating to the World Test Championship while adding ‘no decisions have been taken’ so far.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttler-hoping-for-shortened-ipl-in-wake-of-covid-19-pandemic-288606">Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"At present, the ICC is considering the options available to us regarding the World Test Championship and no decisions have been taken," the ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying by an Australian daily.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, there have been doubts over the Asia Cup 2020, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan – as of now – in the month of September. While it is impossible for India to participate in the event given it is being held in Pakistan, an ACC meeting was scheduled to decide a neutral venue for the event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-wants-womens-ipl-next-year-says-bcci-shouldnt-wait-forever-288604">Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever</a>

However, with the COVID-19 spreading like a wildfire, the meeting has been postponed and no final call has been taken in relation to the schedule and venue for the tournament. The likes of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participate&nbsp;in the Asia Cup.

Even the BCCI has been seeming less optimistic about conducting the IPL with India going under lockdown for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had ruled out a postponed version of IPL 2020.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship.

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship. Unlike other tournaments, the ICC World Test Championship is to be played in two years with every Test-playing nation playing home and away series as per the schedule. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left everything shattered. While there has been no confirmation on how the ICC is planning to conduct the event now, an ICC spokesperson has said that the apex cricketing body is ‘considering the options available’ relating to the World Test Championship while adding ‘no decisions have been taken’ so far. ALSO READ: Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic "At present, the ICC is considering the options available to us regarding the World Test Championship and no decisions have been taken," the ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying by an Australian daily. Meanwhile, there have been doubts over the Asia Cup 2020, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan – as of now – in the month of September. While it is impossible for India to participate in the event given it is being held in Pakistan, an ACC meeting was scheduled to decide a neutral venue for the event. ALSO READ: Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever However, with the COVID-19 spreading like a wildfire, the meeting has been postponed and no final call has been taken in relation to the schedule and venue for the tournament. The likes of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participate in the Asia Cup. Even the BCCI has been seeming less optimistic about conducting the IPL with India going under lockdown for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had ruled out a postponed version of IPL 2020.

'It is considering...' - ICC spokesperson reveals fate of World Test Championship

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic. While tournaments like IPL has been already suspended until April 15 and a final call is expected soon, dark clouds are hovering over major events like the Olympics and ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

As the dreaded COVID-19 continues to spread like wildfire, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to conduct preliminary discussions on the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup on March 29, according to reports. An 18-member board of directors including heads of 12 Test playing nations are set to hold discussions surrounding T20 World Cup 2020 on March 29. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-cancels-con-call-with-franchise-owners-as-fate-of-ipl-2020-hangs-by-thin-thread-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288198">BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

The showpiece event is scheduled to kickstart in October 2020 and is set to be hosted by Australia. However, with major tournaments getting cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes have shifted towards the World Cup in the shortest format of the game.

Interestingly, there’s another T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021 which will be hosted by India, hence, it will be interesting to see who backs out and whether one of the events get affected to not.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-the-summer-olympics-ever-been-cancelled-a-look-back-at-history-as-dark-clouds-hover-over-2020-tokyo-games-288231">Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games</a>

The previous edition of the ICC T20 World Cup was hosted by India in 2016 where West Indies defeated England in the humdinger of a final. Carlos Brathwaite had come out as the hero for the Windies after smashing four sixes off Ben Stokes in the final over to help the Men in Maroon lift the coveted trophy. 
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With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic.

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic. While tournaments like IPL has been already suspended until April 15 and a final call is expected soon, dark clouds are hovering over major events like the Olympics and ICC T20 World Cup. As the dreaded COVID-19 continues to spread like wildfire, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to conduct preliminary discussions on the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup on March 29, according to reports. An 18-member board of directors including heads of 12 Test playing nations are set to hold discussions surrounding T20 World Cup 2020 on March 29. ALSO READ: BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic The showpiece event is scheduled to kickstart in October 2020 and is set to be hosted by Australia. However, with major tournaments getting cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes have shifted towards the World Cup in the shortest format of the game. Interestingly, there’s another T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021 which will be hosted by India, hence, it will be interesting to see who backs out and whether one of the events get affected to not. ALSO READ: Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games The previous edition of the ICC T20 World Cup was hosted by India in 2016 where West Indies defeated England in the humdinger of a final. Carlos Brathwaite had come out as the hero for the Windies after smashing four sixes off Ben Stokes in the final over to help the Men in Maroon lift the coveted trophy.

ICC set to have preliminary discussions on ICC T20 World Cup on March 29 as COVID-19 continues to impact global sports

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played.&nbsp;

ICC tweeted a picture of four legendary cricketers asking who is the better player in terms of pull shots. Rohit Sharma was missing out in the options. The prolific Indian Batsman took a dig at ICC.&nbsp;

ICC posted this:

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Which batsman, past or present, has the best pull shot, in your opinion? 👀 <a href="https://t.co/TAXf8rr3el">pic.twitter.com/TAXf8rr3el</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1241522487055302663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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To which Rohit Sharma responded:

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Someone’s missing here ?? Not easy to work from home I guess <a href="https://t.co/sbonEva7AM">https://t.co/sbonEva7AM</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1241670466558812160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 400 people have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played.

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played. ICC tweeted a picture of four legendary cricketers asking who is the better player in terms of pull shots. Rohit Sharma was missing out in the options. The prolific Indian Batsman took a dig at ICC. ICC posted this: Which batsman, past or present, has the best pull shot, in your opinion? 👀 pic.twitter.com/TAXf8rr3el — ICC (@ICC) March 22, 2020 × To which Rohit Sharma responded: Someone’s missing here ?? Not easy to work from home I guess https://t.co/sbonEva7AM — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) March 22, 2020 × With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 400 people have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

'Not easy to work from home' - Rohit Sharma takes sly dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format.

Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-dhoni-receives-grand-welcome-at-chennai-ahead-of-practice-session-283661">IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session</a>

"We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying.

"What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added.

South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively.

Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer.

"No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added.

Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

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Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13. The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`. Also Read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session "We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying. "What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added. South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively. Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer. "No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added. Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

'Dhoni is a master of white-ball finisher': Justin Langer

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday released TV and digital viewing figures for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 group stage, setting new TV and digital records and becoming the most-watched women`s cricket event ever.&nbsp;

Across ICC's digital and social platforms, fans have engaged in greater numbers than ever before with an unprecedented 701 million video views to date.&nbsp;

This is a record for ICC women's events with the previous best coming in 2017 for the Women's Cricket World Cup, which netted a total of 100 million views from the whole event.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the official tournament social channels have attracted 34 million engagements and over 2 billion impressions with fans.&nbsp;

Through the ICC's global broadcast partner, the event has been shown in almost 160 territories across the world through live and highlights television coverage.&nbsp;

Continuing the TV viewership records, Australia's opening game against India became the second most-watched women's match in Australia with a combined average audience of 448,000 across the networks.&nbsp;

Whilst in India, the same game saw a reach of 20 million and an average audience of 3.55 million which is 39 per cent higher than the most-watched match at the ICC Women`s World Twenty20 2018 edition.&nbsp;

The first 12 matches of this event have attracted 2.46 billion viewing minutes in India versus 787 million viewing minutes for the same matches in the 2018 event.&nbsp;

This represents a 213 per cent increase. The final of the tournament will be played between host Australia and India at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) later in the day.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday released TV and digital viewing figures for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 group stage, setting new TV and digital records and becoming the most-watched women`s cricket event ever.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday released TV and digital viewing figures for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 group stage, setting new TV and digital records and becoming the most-watched women`s cricket event ever. Across ICC's digital and social platforms, fans have engaged in greater numbers than ever before with an unprecedented 701 million video views to date. This is a record for ICC women's events with the previous best coming in 2017 for the Women's Cricket World Cup, which netted a total of 100 million views from the whole event. Meanwhile, the official tournament social channels have attracted 34 million engagements and over 2 billion impressions with fans. Through the ICC's global broadcast partner, the event has been shown in almost 160 territories across the world through live and highlights television coverage. Continuing the TV viewership records, Australia's opening game against India became the second most-watched women's match in Australia with a combined average audience of 448,000 across the networks. Whilst in India, the same game saw a reach of 20 million and an average audience of 3.55 million which is 39 per cent higher than the most-watched match at the ICC Women`s World Twenty20 2018 edition. The first 12 matches of this event have attracted 2.46 billion viewing minutes in India versus 787 million viewing minutes for the same matches in the 2018 event. This represents a 213 per cent increase. The final of the tournament will be played between host Australia and India at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) later in the day.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup breaks all audience records

Defending champions Australia has proceeded into the finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after beating the South African women's cricket team by 5 runs (DLS) on Thursday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-india-progress-to-finals-after-semifinal-match-gets-abandoned-284411" hreflang="en">ICC Women's T20 World Cup: India progress to finals after semifinal match gets abandoned</a>

Despite losing Perry, Australia must not be underestimated as they stunned the cup favourites South Africa team.

Australian women's team scored 134 runs by the end of the 20 overs. Their captain Meg Lanning led the team from the front as she scored 49 runs (not out).

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-semifinal-why-indias-women-in-blue-will-beat-england-284286" hreflang="en">ICC Women's T20 World Cup semifinal: Why India's 'Women in Blue' will beat England</a>

South African innings were revised due to rain. The revised target is 98 runs off 13 overs. The Proteas fell five runs short of the target scoring 92 runs off 5 wickets in 20 overs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-shafali-verma-stars-as-india-qualify-for-semifinals-283099">ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals</a>

The hosts (Australians) will now face India in the final match on Sunday.&nbsp; For the first time in their history, India has qualified for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/teen-sensation-shafali-verma-now-has-highest-strike-rate-in-womens-t20is-283027">Teen sensation Shafali Verma now has highest strike-rate in Women's T20Is</a>

The 'Women in Blue' are having a dream-run in this years ICC T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet and Co are the only unbeaten side in the tournament. They started their campaign by defeating the defending Champs and hosts Australia by 17 runs. Aussies will be eyeing redemption against the 'women in blue'.

Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry is out of the tournament after she was struck by a hamstring injury during their match with New Zealand.

India's explosive opener Shafali Verma and bowler Poonam Yadav's form could guide the women to their maiden ICC trophy.

&nbsp;

Defending champions Australia has proceeded into the finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after beating the South African women's cricket team by 5 runs (DLS) on Thursday.

Defending champions Australia has proceeded into the finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after beating the South African women's cricket team by 5 runs (DLS) on Thursday. Also read: ICC Women's T20 World Cup: India progress to finals after semifinal match gets abandoned Despite losing Perry, Australia must not be underestimated as they stunned the cup favourites South Africa team. Australian women's team scored 134 runs by the end of the 20 overs. Their captain Meg Lanning led the team from the front as she scored 49 runs (not out). Also see: ICC Women's T20 World Cup semifinal: Why India's 'Women in Blue' will beat England South African innings were revised due to rain. The revised target is 98 runs off 13 overs. The Proteas fell five runs short of the target scoring 92 runs off 5 wickets in 20 overs. Also read: ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals The hosts (Australians) will now face India in the final match on Sunday. For the first time in their history, India has qualified for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final. Also read: Teen sensation Shafali Verma now has highest strike-rate in Women's T20Is The 'Women in Blue' are having a dream-run in this years ICC T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet and Co are the only unbeaten side in the tournament. They started their campaign by defeating the defending Champs and hosts Australia by 17 runs. Aussies will be eyeing redemption against the 'women in blue'. Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry is out of the tournament after she was struck by a hamstring injury during their match with New Zealand. India's explosive opener Shafali Verma and bowler Poonam Yadav's form could guide the women to their maiden ICC trophy.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup: India set to face Australia in finals

The toss in semi-final clash between India and England has been stalled due to heavy rains in Sydney. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20-world-cup-can-indian-womens-cricket-team-repeat-an-83-281967">ICC T20 World Cup: Can Indian women's cricket team repeat an '83?</a>

Australia's east coast has been hit with a week-long rain, this has led to forfeiting of final two group stage fixtures (Pakistan women's team vs Thailand women's team and South Africa women's team vs West Indies women's team).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-india-are-set-to-face-england-in-semifinals-284140">ICC women's T20 World Cup: India are set to face England in semifinals</a>

The toss was supposed to take place at 9:00 AM (Indian standard time) &nbsp;could be at the most be delayed till 11:06 AM (IST) and the game should begin by 11:21 AM (IST).&nbsp;

At least a minimum of 10-overs-a-side is needed according to the new regulations to have a shortened game.

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☔ India v England weather update 
 
To complete a 10 over a side match, the toss must be held by 4.36pm local time, and play must commence by 4.51pm local time. 
 
We will keep you updated as the day progresses.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/MVUfMBcuC4">pic.twitter.com/MVUfMBcuC4</a>
— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup/status/1235404798956052481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rain is predicted to pour all day, which is not the good news of England as the teams that have finished first in respective groups will progress to finals.&nbsp;

In case rain takes place all day, washing out all the semifinal fixtures England and Australia will bow out of the tournament, whereas India and South Africa go into the finals.&nbsp;

Even the World Cup final is threatened by rain, they will have a reserve day for playing out the finals.&nbsp;

The 'Women in Blue' are having a dream-run in this years ICC T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet and Co are the only unbeaten side in the tournament.

The toss in semi-final clash between India and England has been stalled due to heavy rains in Sydney. Also read: ICC T20 World Cup: Can Indian women's cricket team repeat an '83?

The toss in semi-final clash between India and England has been stalled due to heavy rains in Sydney. Also read: ICC T20 World Cup: Can Indian women's cricket team repeat an '83? Australia's east coast has been hit with a week-long rain, this has led to forfeiting of final two group stage fixtures (Pakistan women's team vs Thailand women's team and South Africa women's team vs West Indies women's team). Also read: ICC women's T20 World Cup: India are set to face England in semifinals The toss was supposed to take place at 9:00 AM (Indian standard time) could be at the most be delayed till 11:06 AM (IST) and the game should begin by 11:21 AM (IST). At least a minimum of 10-overs-a-side is needed according to the new regulations to have a shortened game. ☔ India v England weather update To complete a 10 over a side match, the toss must be held by 4.36pm local time, and play must commence by 4.51pm local time. We will keep you updated as the day progresses.#INDvENG | #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/MVUfMBcuC4 — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) March 5, 2020 × Rain is predicted to pour all day, which is not the good news of England as the teams that have finished first in respective groups will progress to finals. In case rain takes place all day, washing out all the semifinal fixtures England and Australia will bow out of the tournament, whereas India and South Africa go into the finals. Even the World Cup final is threatened by rain, they will have a reserve day for playing out the finals. The 'Women in Blue' are having a dream-run in this years ICC T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet and Co are the only unbeaten side in the tournament.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Toss delayed in India versus England semifinal due to rain

Former opening batsman Virender Sehwag lauded India's women's cricket team for holding their nerves and beating New Zealand in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-shafali-verma-stars-as-india-qualify-for-semifinals-283099">Also Read: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals</a>

"Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup," Sehwag said on Twitter.

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Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi finals of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 
Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein. <a href="https://t.co/euq2368NTF">pic.twitter.com/euq2368NTF</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1232946716678270976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein(enjoying watching the performance of the girls).

India beat New Zealand by three runs to enter the last four of the tournament. The Indian side has been unbeaten in the women's World Cup T20I so far.&nbsp;

Shafali Verma was declared the "Player of the Match" after her match-winning performance hitting 46 runs in 34 balls with four boundaries and a six.

Indian batters had posted a slightly below-par score of 138/8 in 20 overs but the Indian bowlers defended the target with each bowler picking up wickets.

Shikha Pandey was the star bowler in the end as she throttled the Kiwis in the last over with just four runs needed for victory. Pandey bowled a yorker to get Jensen run out off the final ball after being hit for a boundary in the previous ball.

Former opening batsman Virender Sehwag lauded India's women's cricket team for holding their nerves and beating New Zealand in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia.

Former opening batsman Virender Sehwag lauded India's women's cricket team for holding their nerves and beating New Zealand in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia. Also Read: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals "Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup," Sehwag said on Twitter. Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi finals of the #T20WorldCup Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein. pic.twitter.com/euq2368NTF — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) February 27, 2020 × "Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein(enjoying watching the performance of the girls). India beat New Zealand by three runs to enter the last four of the tournament. The Indian side has been unbeaten in the women's World Cup T20I so far. Shafali Verma was declared the "Player of the Match" after her match-winning performance hitting 46 runs in 34 balls with four boundaries and a six. Indian batters had posted a slightly below-par score of 138/8 in 20 overs but the Indian bowlers defended the target with each bowler picking up wickets. Shikha Pandey was the star bowler in the end as she throttled the Kiwis in the last over with just four runs needed for victory. Pandey bowled a yorker to get Jensen run out off the final ball after being hit for a boundary in the previous ball.

Wah bhai Wah! says Sehwag after India beat New Zealand in ICC Women's T20 World Cup

Indian women's cricket team will be looking forward to getting a maiden ICC trophy this year by winning the ICC T20 women's World Cup.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20-world-cup-can-indian-womens-cricket-team-repeat-an-83-281967" hreflang="en">ICC T20 World Cup: Can Indian women's cricket team repeat an '83?</a>

They face a mighty challenge to get to the knockout phase as they progress in the tournament. They have an on-going match with the ICC world number one and hosts Australia. Australians are favourite to lift the coveted trophy.&nbsp;

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It is time for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> opener 😎😎 
 
Let's get back behind <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/uuXdD1pEtr">pic.twitter.com/uuXdD1pEtr</a>
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Indian women's team's young guns such as Shafali Verma, Taniya Bhatia and Radha Yadav have been in an excellent form and India's in-form trio (Harmanpreet, Mandhana, Rodrigues) and that does not rule out the chances of winning.&nbsp;

Years Indian women's team has reached three ICC semifinals: 
1). 2009 
2). 2010 
3). 2018

Years Indian women's team crashed out early in the tournament:&nbsp; 
1). 2012 
2). 2014 
3). 2016

India's fixture:&nbsp; 
India vs Australia, February 21&nbsp; 
India vs Bangladesh, February 24&nbsp; 
India vs New Zealand, February 27&nbsp; 
India vs Sri Lanka, February 29

The tournament commences on February 21 and the finals will be played March 8 on Melbourne cricket ground.&nbsp;

Indian women's cricket team will be looking forward to getting a maiden ICC trophy this year by winning the ICC T20 women's World Cup. Also read: ICC T20 World Cup: Can Indian women's cricket team repeat an '83?

Indian women's cricket team will be looking forward to getting a maiden ICC trophy this year by winning the ICC T20 women's World Cup. Also read: ICC T20 World Cup: Can Indian women's cricket team repeat an '83? They face a mighty challenge to get to the knockout phase as they progress in the tournament. They have an on-going match with the ICC world number one and hosts Australia. Australians are favourite to lift the coveted trophy. It is time for the #T20WorldCup opener 😎😎 Let's get back behind #TeamIndia 🇮🇳🇮🇳 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/uuXdD1pEtr — BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) February 21, 2020 × Indian women's team's young guns such as Shafali Verma, Taniya Bhatia and Radha Yadav have been in an excellent form and India's in-form trio (Harmanpreet, Mandhana, Rodrigues) and that does not rule out the chances of winning. Years Indian women's team has reached three ICC semifinals: 1). 2009 2). 2010 3). 2018 Years Indian women's team crashed out early in the tournament: 1). 2012 2). 2014 3). 2016 India's fixture: India vs Australia, February 21 India vs Bangladesh, February 24 India vs New Zealand, February 27 India vs Sri Lanka, February 29 The tournament commences on February 21 and the finals will be played March 8 on Melbourne cricket ground.

Indian women's cricket team begins ICC World Cup campaign against Australia

Sudan has agreed to hand ousted autocrat Omar al-Bashir and others to the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes in Darfur. Omar has, however, refused to deal with ICC as it is a "political court". Watch report:

Fineprint: Omar al-Bashir refuses to appear before ICC

International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced sanctions against five&nbsp;players who were involved in the post-match brawl during the ICC U-19 World Cup finals between India and Bangladesh in Potchefstroom on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-u-19-world-cup-post-match-brawl-broke-out-between-indian-and-bangladeshi-players-279739">ICC U-19 World Cup: Post-match brawl breaks out between India, Bangladesh players</a>

Bangladesh was overjoyed by the victory as this was their maiden ICC trophy across all age groups. The teammates ran towards the team after Rakibul Hassan hit the winning runs. However, things turned ugly when a Bangladesh player passed a provocative comment, which the Indian players did not take lightly, according to reports.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-like-a-dream-come-true-bangladesh-u-19-captain-akbar-ali-after-winning-world-cup-279667" hreflang="en">It's like a dream come true, Bangladesh U-19 captain Akbar Ali after winning World Cup</a>

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Amazing scenes here in Potchefstroom as Bangladesh pull off a miraculous victory and are the u/19 world champions.. well fought india.. standard of cricket today and throughout this tournament has been world class.. congrats Bangladesh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FutureStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FutureStars</a> <a href="https://t.co/JD7re0KLo2">pic.twitter.com/JD7re0KLo2</a>
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After the comment, players were seen pushing each other. Umpires had to interfere before things could escalate.&nbsp;

Out of the five, three players were&nbsp;from the Bangladesh while two players were from India.&nbsp;

ICC has charged them with misconduct on Tuesday, and&nbsp;said such behaviour has "no place in our sports".&nbsp;

Geoff Allardice, ICC's General manager cricket shared his views on the unsportsmanlike incident, he said: "The elation and disappointment experienced by some players after the game spilt over into unedifying scenes that have no place in our sports,".&nbsp;

"It is disappointing that Code of Conduct charges needed to be laid after such a closely contested match, but it is important to reinforce the standard of behaviour that will be expected of these young players should they transition to senior international cricket," the statement added.&nbsp;

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Shameful end to a wonderful game of cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWCFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWCFinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/b9fQcmpqbJ">pic.twitter.com/b9fQcmpqbJ</a>
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Three Bangladeshi players included&nbsp;Md Towhid Hridoy (10 suspension points), Shamim Hossain (8 suspension points) and Rakibul Hasan (4 suspension points) and two Indian players -&nbsp;Akash Singh (8 suspension points) and Ravi Bishnoi (5 suspension points) have been charged with violating Article 2.21 of the code.

Indian spinner Bishnoi (extra two suspension points) has received a further charge of breaching Article 2.5, for a separate incident during the match for&nbsp;using&nbsp;"language, actions or gestures"&nbsp;which could have provoked an aggressive reaction from a batsman following the dismissal of Avishek Das in the 23rd over.

One suspension point equals a player being ineligible for one ODI or a T20I, U-19 game or an A-team international match.

(Inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced sanctions against five players who were involved in the post-match brawl during the ICC U-19 World Cup finals between India and Bangladesh in Potchefstroom on Sunday.

International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced sanctions against five players who were involved in the post-match brawl during the ICC U-19 World Cup finals between India and Bangladesh in Potchefstroom on Sunday. Also read- ICC U-19 World Cup: Post-match brawl breaks out between India, Bangladesh players Bangladesh was overjoyed by the victory as this was their maiden ICC trophy across all age groups. The teammates ran towards the team after Rakibul Hassan hit the winning runs. However, things turned ugly when a Bangladesh player passed a provocative comment, which the Indian players did not take lightly, according to reports. Also read- It's like a dream come true, Bangladesh U-19 captain Akbar Ali after winning World Cup Amazing scenes here in Potchefstroom as Bangladesh pull off a miraculous victory and are the u/19 world champions.. well fought india.. standard of cricket today and throughout this tournament has been world class.. congrats Bangladesh #U19WorldCup #FutureStars pic.twitter.com/JD7re0KLo2 — JP Duminy (@jpduminy21) February 9, 2020 × After the comment, players were seen pushing each other. Umpires had to interfere before things could escalate. Out of the five, three players were from the Bangladesh while two players were from India. ICC has charged them with misconduct on Tuesday, and said such behaviour has "no place in our sports". Geoff Allardice, ICC's General manager cricket shared his views on the unsportsmanlike incident, he said: "The elation and disappointment experienced by some players after the game spilt over into unedifying scenes that have no place in our sports,". "It is disappointing that Code of Conduct charges needed to be laid after such a closely contested match, but it is important to reinforce the standard of behaviour that will be expected of these young players should they transition to senior international cricket," the statement added. Shameful end to a wonderful game of cricket. #U19CWCFinal pic.twitter.com/b9fQcmpqbJ — Sameer Allana (@HitmanCricket) February 9, 2020 × Three Bangladeshi players included Md Towhid Hridoy (10 suspension points), Shamim Hossain (8 suspension points) and Rakibul Hasan (4 suspension points) and two Indian players - Akash Singh (8 suspension points) and Ravi Bishnoi (5 suspension points) have been charged with violating Article 2.21 of the code. Indian spinner Bishnoi (extra two suspension points) has received a further charge of breaching Article 2.5, for a separate incident during the match for using "language, actions or gestures" which could have provoked an aggressive reaction from a batsman following the dismissal of Avishek Das in the 23rd over. One suspension point equals a player being ineligible for one ODI or a T20I, U-19 game or an A-team international match. (Inputs from ANI)

ICC charges India, Bangladesh players involved in brawl during Under-19 World Cup final

After the ICC World Cup final clash between the under-19 teams of India and Bangladesh, a brawl erupted on the field during the post-match celebrations, reports said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-like-a-dream-come-true-bangladesh-u-19-captain-akbar-ali-after-winning-world-cup-279667">It's like a dream come true, Bangladesh U-19 captain Akbar Ali after winning World Cup</a>

Bangladesh&nbsp;was overjoyed by the victory as this was their maiden ICC trophy across all age groups. The teammates&nbsp;ran towards the team after Rakibul Hassan hit the winning runs. However, things turned ugly when a Bangladesh player passed a provocative comment, which the Indian players did not take lightly, according to reports.&nbsp;

After the&nbsp;comment, players were seen pushing each other. Umpires had to interfere before things could escalate. Former South African cricketer JP Duminy managed to capture it&nbsp;in the video as he tweeted.&nbsp;

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Amazing scenes here in Potchefstroom as Bangladesh pull off a miraculous victory and are the u/19 world champions.. well fought india.. standard of cricket today and throughout this tournament has been world class.. congrats Bangladesh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FutureStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FutureStars</a> <a href="https://t.co/JD7re0KLo2">pic.twitter.com/JD7re0KLo2</a>
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After the match, newswire PTI quoted Indian U-19 skipper, Priyam Garg, saying: "We were easy. We think it's part and parcel of the game - you win some and you lose some. But their reaction was dirty. I think it shouldn't have happened. But it's okay." &nbsp;

Bangladesh&nbsp;skipper Akbar Ali, who played a match-winning knock of 43 runs was quoted by PTI saying: "What happened, it should not [have] happened. I don't know what exactly happened. I didn't ask what was going on. But, you know, in the final, emotion can come out, and sometimes the boys were getting pumped, and emotions were coming through."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Incredible scenes as Bangladesh celebrate their first ever U19 World Cup title!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWC</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FutureStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FutureStars</a> <a href="https://t.co/OI2PXU7Eqw">pic.twitter.com/OI2PXU7Eqw</a>
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Akbar&nbsp;also apologised for the turn of events that took place after the match ended.&nbsp;

The Bangladesh skipper: "As a youngster, it shouldn't happen. In any position, in any manner, we have to show respect to the opponent, we should have respect for the game. Cricket is known for being a gentleman's game. So I'll say, I'll be sorry for my team."

Bangladesh's Under-19 team lifted&nbsp;the ICC U-19 World Cup for the first time on Sunday after beating India by 3 wickets.

After the ICC World Cup final clash between the under-19 teams of India and Bangladesh, a brawl erupted on the field during the post-match celebrations, reports said.

After the ICC World Cup final clash between the under-19 teams of India and Bangladesh, a brawl erupted on the field during the post-match celebrations, reports said. Also read: It's like a dream come true, Bangladesh U-19 captain Akbar Ali after winning World Cup Bangladesh was overjoyed by the victory as this was their maiden ICC trophy across all age groups. The teammates ran towards the team after Rakibul Hassan hit the winning runs. However, things turned ugly when a Bangladesh player passed a provocative comment, which the Indian players did not take lightly, according to reports. After the comment, players were seen pushing each other. Umpires had to interfere before things could escalate. Former South African cricketer JP Duminy managed to capture it in the video as he tweeted. Amazing scenes here in Potchefstroom as Bangladesh pull off a miraculous victory and are the u/19 world champions.. well fought india.. standard of cricket today and throughout this tournament has been world class.. congrats Bangladesh #U19WorldCup #FutureStars pic.twitter.com/JD7re0KLo2 — JP Duminy (@jpduminy21) February 9, 2020 × After the match, newswire PTI quoted Indian U-19 skipper, Priyam Garg, saying: "We were easy. We think it's part and parcel of the game - you win some and you lose some. But their reaction was dirty. I think it shouldn't have happened. But it's okay." Bangladesh skipper Akbar Ali, who played a match-winning knock of 43 runs was quoted by PTI saying: "What happened, it should not [have] happened. I don't know what exactly happened. I didn't ask what was going on. But, you know, in the final, emotion can come out, and sometimes the boys were getting pumped, and emotions were coming through." Incredible scenes as Bangladesh celebrate their first ever U19 World Cup title!!#U19CWC | #INDvBAN | #FutureStars pic.twitter.com/OI2PXU7Eqw — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) February 9, 2020 × Akbar also apologised for the turn of events that took place after the match ended. The Bangladesh skipper: "As a youngster, it shouldn't happen. In any position, in any manner, we have to show respect to the opponent, we should have respect for the game. Cricket is known for being a gentleman's game. So I'll say, I'll be sorry for my team." Bangladesh's Under-19 team lifted the ICC U-19 World Cup for the first time on Sunday after beating India by 3 wickets.

ICC U-19 World Cup: Post-match brawl breaks out between India, Bangladesh players

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-tour- due-to-injury-gill-and-agarwal-to-replace-278428">Indian team</a> has&nbsp;been fined 80 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first One Day International of the three-match serieson Wednesday in Hamilton.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-vs-india-1st-odi-kiwis-outshine-men-in-blue-win-by-6-wickets-278863">New Zealand vs India, 1st ODI: Kiwis outshine Men in Blue, win by 6 wickets</a>

According to Article 2.22 of the ICC code of conduct for players and players personnel, a team is fined 20 per cent of match fee for every delayed over.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-new-zealand-tests-prithvi-shaw- navdeep-saini-in-rohit-sharma-out-278478">Virat</a> and Co. have been charged with four delayed&nbsp;overs in the recent ODI clash. In a released statement by the ICC: “Kohli pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing,".&nbsp;

Men in blue were charged by the on-field umpires Shaun Haig and Langton Rusere, third umpire Bruce Oxenford and fourth umpire Chris Brown.&nbsp;

This is the third successive time in the tour that they have&nbsp;been charged with these violations. Team India were charged 40 per cent and 20 per cent of the fee in the fourth and the fifth T20I match respectively against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees' Chris Broad imposed the sanction on Kohli's side.&nbsp;

New Zealand get their first win of the tour against India, they beat the visitors by 4 wickets. The Blackcaps chased India's mammoth score (347 runs) with 11 balls to spare.

Ross Taylor has been judged the 'Man of the Match' after his performance versus India today.&nbsp;

New Zealand lead three-ODI match series against India (1-0).&nbsp;

They next meet in Auckland on February 8.

The Indian team has been fined 80 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first One Day International of the three-match serieson Wednesday in Hamilton.

The Indian team has been fined 80 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first One Day International of the three-match serieson Wednesday in Hamilton. Also read- New Zealand vs India, 1st ODI: Kiwis outshine Men in Blue, win by 6 wickets According to Article 2.22 of the ICC code of conduct for players and players personnel, a team is fined 20 per cent of match fee for every delayed over. Virat and Co. have been charged with four delayed overs in the recent ODI clash. In a released statement by the ICC: “Kohli pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing,". Men in blue were charged by the on-field umpires Shaun Haig and Langton Rusere, third umpire Bruce Oxenford and fourth umpire Chris Brown. This is the third successive time in the tour that they have been charged with these violations. Team India were charged 40 per cent and 20 per cent of the fee in the fourth and the fifth T20I match respectively against New Zealand. Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees' Chris Broad imposed the sanction on Kohli's side. New Zealand get their first win of the tour against India, they beat the visitors by 4 wickets. The Blackcaps chased India's mammoth score (347 runs) with 11 balls to spare. Ross Taylor has been judged the 'Man of the Match' after his performance versus India today. New Zealand lead three-ODI match series against India (1-0). They next meet in Auckland on February 8.

India fined for slow over rate for third successive time

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list. He scored the highest runs in the 5-match series (224 runs).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-in-terms-of-most-50-score-in-t20is-278244">Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli</a>

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I freaking love this game🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/iT76YJheIP">pic.twitter.com/iT76YJheIP</a>
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Rohit Sharma's World Record of most 50+ scores in T20I helped him jump three ranks, he is currently ranked at number 10. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries).&nbsp;

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“Everything negative – pressure, challenges – is all an opportunity to rise.” 
. 
. 
Proud of this team. 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaMentality?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MambaMentality</a> <a href="https://t.co/14iaWHppOg">pic.twitter.com/14iaWHppOg</a>
— Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93/status/1223938796468817920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shreyas Iyer (currently ranked 55th) and Manish Pandey (currently ranked 58th) jumped 63 ranks and 12 ranks respectively.&nbsp;

Virat Kolhi retained his ninth rank after a decent performance of 105 runs in four matches.&nbsp;

Three Indian batsmen are in the top 10 ranked batsmen in T20I's list.&nbsp;

India's bowling attack has also earned a massive upgrade after defending modest totals put up by India.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-world-record-bowls-most-maiden-overs-in-t20is-278334">Jasprit Bumrah</a>'s (currently ranked 11th) unique World Record in the final T20I helped him gain 26 places. He has become the bowler to bowl most maiden overs in T20I history. The 26-year-old has 7 maidens to his name in T20Is.&nbsp;

Yuzvendra Chahal has gone 10 places up and is currently ranked 30th, Shardul Thakur's nail-biting final over in the fourth T20I helped India seal a victory against the Kiwis. Thakur scalped eight wickets in the series and has jumped 34 places to 57th position. Navdeep Saini and Ravindra Jadeja's efficient bowling helped them earn rank no 71 and 76 respectively.&nbsp;

India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin. India have extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.&nbsp;

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list.

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list. He scored the highest runs in the 5-match series (224 runs). Also read: Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli I freaking love this game🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/iT76YJheIP — K L Rahul (@klrahul11) January 29, 2020 × Rohit Sharma's World Record of most 50+ scores in T20I helped him jump three ranks, he is currently ranked at number 10. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries). “Everything negative – pressure, challenges – is all an opportunity to rise.” . . Proud of this team. 🇮🇳#MambaMentality pic.twitter.com/14iaWHppOg — Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) February 2, 2020 × Shreyas Iyer (currently ranked 55th) and Manish Pandey (currently ranked 58th) jumped 63 ranks and 12 ranks respectively. Virat Kolhi retained his ninth rank after a decent performance of 105 runs in four matches. Three Indian batsmen are in the top 10 ranked batsmen in T20I's list. India's bowling attack has also earned a massive upgrade after defending modest totals put up by India. Jasprit Bumrah's (currently ranked 11th) unique World Record in the final T20I helped him gain 26 places. He has become the bowler to bowl most maiden overs in T20I history. The 26-year-old has 7 maidens to his name in T20Is. Yuzvendra Chahal has gone 10 places up and is currently ranked 30th, Shardul Thakur's nail-biting final over in the fourth T20I helped India seal a victory against the Kiwis. Thakur scalped eight wickets in the series and has jumped 34 places to 57th position. Navdeep Saini and Ravindra Jadeja's efficient bowling helped them earn rank no 71 and 76 respectively. India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin. India have extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.

India players rise in ICC T20I rankings after clean sweep over New Zealand

The Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) held a meeting in regard of this year's Indian Premier League, the matches will commence on March 29 and the finals will be played on May 24, in Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-defeat-new-zealand-in-second-t20i-rahul-iyer-shine-276693">India defeat New Zealand in second T20I: Rahul, Iyer shine</a>

This year's IPL has come with new rules and a format. According to the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, IPL will hold five double-header matches this year. Double-header means holding two matches in one day. The timing of these matches will be 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../bcci-drops-dhoni-in-central-contract-list-for-the -players-274648">BCCI</a> has planned an All-star match before the start of the IPL, the match will be played among top international players. This match will be played for a charitable cause. The venue of the All-Stars game has not yet been decided. It will be played on March 29.&nbsp;

International Cricket Council (ICC) have come out with a new rule where players who suffer a concussion while batting or bowling can be substituted during the match by the approval of match referee. The rule was seen in play during Day 5 of the second Ashes Test match where Marcus Labuschagne was called in to replace Steve Smith. IPL is set to follow this rule in this year's league.&nbsp;

The third umpire will be given the duty to check the exclusive no-balls, the on-field umpires will no longer make this decision. This formula was tried in the recent India-West Indies ODI series.&nbsp;

This year's IPL has a lot of expectation like always, IPL has seen a lot of ups and downs in the past. It has been a gateway for new emerging players to show their skills to the world.&nbsp;

The Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) held a meeting in regard of this year's Indian Premier League, the matches will commence on March 29 and the finals will be played on May 24, in Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) held a meeting in regard of this year's Indian Premier League, the matches will commence on March 29 and the finals will be played on May 24, in Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Also read: India defeat New Zealand in second T20I: Rahul, Iyer shine This year's IPL has come with new rules and a format. According to the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, IPL will hold five double-header matches this year. Double-header means holding two matches in one day. The timing of these matches will be 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. BCCI has planned an All-star match before the start of the IPL, the match will be played among top international players. This match will be played for a charitable cause. The venue of the All-Stars game has not yet been decided. It will be played on March 29. International Cricket Council (ICC) have come out with a new rule where players who suffer a concussion while batting or bowling can be substituted during the match by the approval of match referee. The rule was seen in play during Day 5 of the second Ashes Test match where Marcus Labuschagne was called in to replace Steve Smith. IPL is set to follow this rule in this year's league. The third umpire will be given the duty to check the exclusive no-balls, the on-field umpires will no longer make this decision. This formula was tried in the recent India-West Indies ODI series. This year's IPL has a lot of expectation like always, IPL has seen a lot of ups and downs in the past. It has been a gateway for new emerging players to show their skills to the world.

Indian Premier League 2020 to bring in new third umpire and concussion rule - BCCI

The International Control of Cricket (ICC) took a swipe at an Indian fan who claimed that he could bowl like Jasprit Bumrah.&nbsp;

When Bumrah was bowling in the ongoing third and final ODI of the series between India and Australia on Sunday, a fan displayed a banner which read: 'I can bowl like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-second-test-jasprit-bumrah-becomes-third-indian-to-claim-a-hat-trick-in-tests-246924">Bumrah</a>.'

ICC responded in a witty manner with a tweet, which said:&nbsp;'We'd like to see video proof'.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20i-ind-vs-lanka-virat-kohli-and-jasprit-bumrah-break-records-after-emphatic-victory-over-sri-lanka-273577">Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka</a>

<img alt="Jaspreet Bumrah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="693a7d54-966e-4e3b-9b02-8b2c473431b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2839%29_1.jpg" /> 
[ Jaspreet Bumrah (Courtesy: Twitter Handle @jaspreetbumrah93) ]

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We'd like to see video proof 😄<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ti3s0OgkXx">pic.twitter.com/Ti3s0OgkXx</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1218824942235607040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Twitter trolls were quick to retaliate and have now saturated&nbsp;the comments&nbsp;section with similar illogical comparisons.

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I can act like tom cruise.😉😉
— Gidhet (@gidhet) <a href="https://twitter.com/gidhet/status/1218825233890594816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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I can eat like Sarfaraaz !! 🤪
— shalina (@I_Shalina) <a href="https://twitter.com/I_Shalina/status/1218864829546536960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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No need... I saw his elbows so I agreed he can bowl like bumrah
— Vinod (@Vinod119911) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vinod119911/status/1218827748010909696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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I can batt like virat
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Known for his toe-crushing yorkers and accuracy, Bumrah is considered as the spearhead of Indian pace attack. In this match, Bumrah was unable to pick any wicket but proved to be a miser as he gave away only 38 runs.&nbsp;

In the previous ODI too, Bumrah again made life tougher for Aussie batsmen and gave away only 32 runs, even though, he claimed only one wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the ongoing match, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first and scored 287 runs for the loss of 9 wickets.

The International Control of Cricket (ICC) took a swipe at an Indian fan who claimed that he could bowl like Jasprit Bumrah. When Bumrah was bowling in the ongoing third and final ODI of the series between India and Australia on Sunday, a fan displayed a banner which read: 'I can bowl like Bumrah.

The International Control of Cricket (ICC) took a swipe at an Indian fan who claimed that he could bowl like Jasprit Bumrah. When Bumrah was bowling in the ongoing third and final ODI of the series between India and Australia on Sunday, a fan displayed a banner which read: 'I can bowl like Bumrah.' ICC responded in a witty manner with a tweet, which said: 'We'd like to see video proof'. Also Read: Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka [ Jaspreet Bumrah (Courtesy: Twitter Handle @jaspreetbumrah93) ] We'd like to see video proof 😄#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/Ti3s0OgkXx — ICC (@ICC) January 19, 2020 × Twitter trolls were quick to retaliate and have now saturated the comments section with similar illogical comparisons. I can act like tom cruise.😉😉 — Gidhet (@gidhet) January 19, 2020 × I can eat like Sarfaraaz !! 🤪 — shalina (@I_Shalina) January 19, 2020 × No need... I saw his elbows so I agreed he can bowl like bumrah — Vinod (@Vinod119911) January 19, 2020 × I can batt like virat — Jam Maooz (@JamMaooz) January 19, 2020 × Known for his toe-crushing yorkers and accuracy, Bumrah is considered as the spearhead of Indian pace attack. In this match, Bumrah was unable to pick any wicket but proved to be a miser as he gave away only 38 runs. In the previous ODI too, Bumrah again made life tougher for Aussie batsmen and gave away only 32 runs, even though, he claimed only one wicket. In the ongoing match, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first and scored 287 runs for the loss of 9 wickets.

ICC, netizens take a jibe at Indian fan claiming to be just as good as Jasprit Bumrah

ICC awards: Winners of Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy over the years

Legendary pace bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-former-pakistan-pacer-shoaib-akhtar-calls-sarfaraz-ahmed-fat-and-unfit-223491">Shoaib Akhtar</a> has alleged that the Pakistan team treated former leg-spin bowler Danish Kaneria badly because of his faith.

Shoaib Akhtar alleged that his teammate Danish Kaneria faced discrimination at the hands of a few Pakistani cricketers since he was a Hindu.

The team members were reluctant to even eat with him because he was a Hindu, he alleged during a cricket show.

Akhtar added that the Pakistan spinner was never given due credit for his performances and that he was constantly humiliated by his teammates.

"In my career, I fought with two people in the team when they started talking on regionalism. Things like 'who is from Karachi, Punjab or Peshawar', that used to&nbsp;infuriate me," Shoaib said during the show.

"So what if someone is a Hindu, he is doing well for the team. The same Hindu won the Test for us against England. If he is taking a bagful of wickets for Pakistan, he should play. We could not have won the series without Kaneria's effort but not many gave him credit for that," the former Pakistan pace bowler added.

Kaneria played in 61 Test matches for the country but was later banned by the ICC for his alleged role in spot-fixing.

Danish Kaneria is fourth on the list of bowlers with most Test wickets for Pakistan behind other fast bowling legends Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Imran Khan, the current prime minister of the country.

Legendary pace bowler Shoaib Akhtar has alleged that the Pakistan team treated former leg-spin bowler Danish Kaneria badly because of his faith. Shoaib Akhtar alleged that his teammate Danish Kaneria faced discrimination at the hands of a few Pakistani cricketers since he was a Hindu.

Legendary pace bowler Shoaib Akhtar has alleged that the Pakistan team treated former leg-spin bowler Danish Kaneria badly because of his faith. Shoaib Akhtar alleged that his teammate Danish Kaneria faced discrimination at the hands of a few Pakistani cricketers since he was a Hindu. The team members were reluctant to even eat with him because he was a Hindu, he alleged during a cricket show. Akhtar added that the Pakistan spinner was never given due credit for his performances and that he was constantly humiliated by his teammates. "In my career, I fought with two people in the team when they started talking on regionalism. Things like 'who is from Karachi, Punjab or Peshawar', that used to infuriate me," Shoaib said during the show. "So what if someone is a Hindu, he is doing well for the team. The same Hindu won the Test for us against England. If he is taking a bagful of wickets for Pakistan, he should play. We could not have won the series without Kaneria's effort but not many gave him credit for that," the former Pakistan pace bowler added. Kaneria played in 61 Test matches for the country but was later banned by the ICC for his alleged role in spot-fixing. Danish Kaneria is fourth on the list of bowlers with most Test wickets for Pakistan behind other fast bowling legends Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Imran Khan, the current prime minister of the country.

Danish Kaneria was mistreated in Pakistan team for being a Hindu, alleges Shoaib Akhtar

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the International Criminal Court of anti-semitism on Sunday over its chief prosecutor's plan to pursue a war crimes probe in the Palestinian Territories.

The right-wing leader - Benjamin Netanyahu -&nbsp;is fighting for his political life in a March <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-heads-to-new-election-third-in-twelve-months-as-stalemate-continues-267768">election</a>, made the allegation against the international Criminal Court, with Judaism's holy Western Wall as a backdrop during a candle-lighting ceremony marking the start of the eight-day Hanukkah holiday.

"New edicts are being cast against the Jewish people - anti-semitic edicts by the International Criminal Court telling us that we, the Jews standing here next to this wall ... in this city, in this country, have no right to live here and that by doing so, we are committing a war crime," he said.

"Pure anti-semitism," Netanyahu said, raising an argument likely to strike a chord with many Israelis who believe that criticism, especially in Europe, of Israeli policies towards the Palestinians has its roots in anti-Jewish sentiment.

The Hague-based International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said on Friday she would launch a full investigation into alleged war crimes in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip as soon as the court's jurisdiction had been established.

Israel captured those areas in the 1967 Middle East war and withdrew troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip in 2005.

Bensouda's announcement opens the possibility of charges being filed against Israelis or Palestinians. Israeli media, however, largely portrayed it as a bid to subject Israeli leaders and military officers to arrest and trial if they travel overseas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-will-resign-from-other-ministries-but-will-remain-pm-lawyers-267872">Netanyahu</a>'s accusations appeared to be centred on a scenario in which Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, where the Western Wall stands within the walled Old City, could be viewed by the court as war crimes.

ICC prosecutors have said a preliminary investigation on the West Bank focused on "reported settlement-related activities engaged in by Israeli authorities".

The Palestinians and many countries consider the settlements to be illegal. Israel disputes this, citing security needs and biblical and historical connections to the land.

The Palestinians have welcomed Bensouda's decision.

Netanyahu said on Friday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-to-probe-alleged-war-crimes-in-palestinian-territories-269444">ICC</a> had no jurisdiction to investigate events in the Palestinian Territories, arguing it could only examine petitions submitted by a sovereign state.

The ICC has the authority to hear cases of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity committed on the territory of the 123 countries that have signed up to it.

Israel has not joined the court but the Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in the occupied West Bank, has done so. The Gaza Strip is run by the PA's rival, the Islamist Hamas group.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the International Criminal Court of anti-semitism on Sunday over its chief prosecutor's plan to pursue a war crimes probe in the Palestinian Territories.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the International Criminal Court of anti-semitism on Sunday over its chief prosecutor's plan to pursue a war crimes probe in the Palestinian Territories. The right-wing leader - Benjamin Netanyahu - is fighting for his political life in a March election, made the allegation against the international Criminal Court, with Judaism's holy Western Wall as a backdrop during a candle-lighting ceremony marking the start of the eight-day Hanukkah holiday. "New edicts are being cast against the Jewish people - anti-semitic edicts by the International Criminal Court telling us that we, the Jews standing here next to this wall ... in this city, in this country, have no right to live here and that by doing so, we are committing a war crime," he said. "Pure anti-semitism," Netanyahu said, raising an argument likely to strike a chord with many Israelis who believe that criticism, especially in Europe, of Israeli policies towards the Palestinians has its roots in anti-Jewish sentiment. The Hague-based International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said on Friday she would launch a full investigation into alleged war crimes in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip as soon as the court's jurisdiction had been established. Israel captured those areas in the 1967 Middle East war and withdrew troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip in 2005. Bensouda's announcement opens the possibility of charges being filed against Israelis or Palestinians. Israeli media, however, largely portrayed it as a bid to subject Israeli leaders and military officers to arrest and trial if they travel overseas. Netanyahu's accusations appeared to be centred on a scenario in which Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, where the Western Wall stands within the walled Old City, could be viewed by the court as war crimes. ICC prosecutors have said a preliminary investigation on the West Bank focused on "reported settlement-related activities engaged in by Israeli authorities". The Palestinians and many countries consider the settlements to be illegal. Israel disputes this, citing security needs and biblical and historical connections to the land. The Palestinians have welcomed Bensouda's decision. Netanyahu said on Friday the ICC had no jurisdiction to investigate events in the Palestinian Territories, arguing it could only examine petitions submitted by a sovereign state. The ICC has the authority to hear cases of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity committed on the territory of the 123 countries that have signed up to it. Israel has not joined the court but the Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in the occupied West Bank, has done so. The Gaza Strip is run by the PA's rival, the Islamist Hamas group.

Netanyahu accuses international court of anti-semitism in war crimes probe

Indian Cricket team captain, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/forbes-india-celebrity-100-virat-kohli-replaces-salman-khan-to-take-no-1-spot-ahead-of-all-actors-269063">Virat Kohli</a>, announced that it had been a great year for the team after ending 2019 with a series-clinching <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-west-indies-to-clinch-odi-series-2-1-269599">win over the West Indies</a>.&nbsp;

Kohli’s 85 set up a successful 316-run chase on Sunday to win the third one-day international by four wickets and complete a 2-1 series triumph.

"Apart from the 30 minutes in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cricket-world-cup-2019-young-guns-whose-time-will-surely-come-233831">World Cup</a>, it's been a great year," Kohli said after his team's win in Cuttack.

The Indian team is ending the year- ranked number one in Tests and second in ODIs, with the only regret being a World Cup semi-final defeat to New Zealand at Old Trafford in July.

"We'll keep chasing that ICC trophy. But apart from that, the way we've played has been satisfying."

India leads the new world Test championship table with three series sweeps away to the West Indies and at home against South Africa and Bangladesh.

However, it was India's fast bowlers who stole the spotlight with their pace and control - even on spin-friendly Indian pitches.

Kohli was full of praise for his quicks across all formats despite the recent absence of yorker specialist Jasprit Bumrah who has been unavailable due to a stress fracture of the back since September.

"Having a bunch of fast bowlers who can bowl out any opposition anywhere, them taking the attention away from the spinners in India is a huge achievement," said Kohli.

Pace spearhead Mohammed Shami led the 2019 world wicket-taking charts with 42 in 21 ODIs. New Zealand's Trent Boult was next with 38 scalps.

Kohli ended the year with 1,377 runs in 26 ODIs, behind opener Rohit Sharma who topped the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-virat-kohli-closes-in-as-steve-smith-maintains-top-spot-mayank-agarwal-enters-top-10-264654">season's batting chart</a> with 1,490 runs including seven centuries.

India will next host Sri Lanka for a three-match Twenty20 series starting January 5 followed by Australia for three ODI matches starting January 14.

India then tours New Zealand for five Twenty20 internationals, three ODIs and two Tests in January-February.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian Cricket team captain, Virat Kohli, announced that it had been a great year for the team after ending 2019 with a series-clinching win over the West Indies.

Indian Cricket team captain, Virat Kohli, announced that it had been a great year for the team after ending 2019 with a series-clinching win over the West Indies. Kohli’s 85 set up a successful 316-run chase on Sunday to win the third one-day international by four wickets and complete a 2-1 series triumph. "Apart from the 30 minutes in the World Cup, it's been a great year," Kohli said after his team's win in Cuttack. The Indian team is ending the year- ranked number one in Tests and second in ODIs, with the only regret being a World Cup semi-final defeat to New Zealand at Old Trafford in July. "We'll keep chasing that ICC trophy. But apart from that, the way we've played has been satisfying." India leads the new world Test championship table with three series sweeps away to the West Indies and at home against South Africa and Bangladesh. However, it was India's fast bowlers who stole the spotlight with their pace and control - even on spin-friendly Indian pitches. Kohli was full of praise for his quicks across all formats despite the recent absence of yorker specialist Jasprit Bumrah who has been unavailable due to a stress fracture of the back since September. "Having a bunch of fast bowlers who can bowl out any opposition anywhere, them taking the attention away from the spinners in India is a huge achievement," said Kohli. Pace spearhead Mohammed Shami led the 2019 world wicket-taking charts with 42 in 21 ODIs. New Zealand's Trent Boult was next with 38 scalps. Kohli ended the year with 1,377 runs in 26 ODIs, behind opener Rohit Sharma who topped the season's batting chart with 1,490 runs including seven centuries. India will next host Sri Lanka for a three-match Twenty20 series starting January 5 followed by Australia for three ODI matches starting January 14. India then tours New Zealand for five Twenty20 internationals, three ODIs and two Tests in January-February. (With inputs from AFP)

After India's win over West Indies, Kohli declares 2019 'great year'

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-president-mahmoud-abbas-points-finger-at-netanyahu-trump-administration-at-unga-252447">Palestine</a>, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel.&nbsp;

The Palestinians welcomed the step and described it as "long overdue" after a nearly five-year preliminary probe by the prosecutor into the situation since the 2014 war in Gaza.

"I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into the situation in Palestine," ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said in a statement.

"In brief, I am satisfied that war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip."

She also asked ICC to rule on the territory over which it has jurisdiction because of the "unique and highly contested legal and factual issues attaching to this situation" before launching a full probe.&nbsp;

I don't require any authorisation from judges to open a probe as there had been a referral from the Palestinians, she further added.

After the prosecutor's statements, the US &nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that they oppose this move and any action that seeks to target Israel "unfairly".&nbsp;

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slammed that statements and called it a "dark day for truth and justice".&nbsp;

"The ICC prosecutor's decision has turned the International Criminal Court into a political tool to delegitimise the State of Israel," Netanyahu said.

Palestine, on the other hand,&nbsp;praised the step and in a statement said: "a long overdue step to move the process forward towards an investigation, after nearly five long and difficult years of preliminary examination". &nbsp;

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in Palestine, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in Palestine, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel. The Palestinians welcomed the step and described it as "long overdue" after a nearly five-year preliminary probe by the prosecutor into the situation since the 2014 war in Gaza. "I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into the situation in Palestine," ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said in a statement. "In brief, I am satisfied that war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip." She also asked ICC to rule on the territory over which it has jurisdiction because of the "unique and highly contested legal and factual issues attaching to this situation" before launching a full probe. I don't require any authorisation from judges to open a probe as there had been a referral from the Palestinians, she further added. After the prosecutor's statements, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that they oppose this move and any action that seeks to target Israel "unfairly". Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slammed that statements and called it a "dark day for truth and justice". "The ICC prosecutor's decision has turned the International Criminal Court into a political tool to delegitimise the State of Israel," Netanyahu said. Palestine, on the other hand, praised the step and in a statement said: "a long overdue step to move the process forward towards an investigation, after nearly five long and difficult years of preliminary examination".

International Criminal Court to probe alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories

Rohit Sharma achieved became the leading run-scorer in the 50-over format in 2019 against West Indies in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match series at&nbsp;Vishakapatnam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/play-without-fear-ganguly-hails-indias-fearless-batting-267836">Sharma</a> went on to register his seventh century in this calendar year and as a result, he surpassed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-get-the-job-done-than-play-slam-bang-cricket-virat-kohli-266796">Virat Kohli</a> to achieve the feat.

The 32-year-old Sharma so far has 1382 runs in the ODI format in 2019 while Kohli has 1292 runs to his credit.

Earlier this year, Sharma had scored five centuries in the ICC Men's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharma-is-the-best-odi-player-says-virat-kohli-234035">Cricket World Cup</a>. As a result, he became the first batsman to record five 100 plus scores in a single edition of the tournament.

During the innings, he also went past 11,000 List A runs.

While filing this report, India had reached the score of 225/0 with both Rohit and KL Rahul still at the crease.

Rohit Sharma achieved became the leading run-scorer in the 50-over format in 2019 against West Indies in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match series at Vishakapatnam.

Rohit Sharma achieved became the leading run-scorer in the 50-over format in 2019 against West Indies in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match series at Vishakapatnam. Sharma went on to register his seventh century in this calendar year and as a result, he surpassed Virat Kohli to achieve the feat. The 32-year-old Sharma so far has 1382 runs in the ODI format in 2019 while Kohli has 1292 runs to his credit. Earlier this year, Sharma had scored five centuries in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. As a result, he became the first batsman to record five 100 plus scores in a single edition of the tournament. During the innings, he also went past 11,000 List A runs. While filing this report, India had reached the score of 225/0 with both Rohit and KL Rahul still at the crease.

Rohit Sharma becomes leading run-scorer in ODIs in 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-womens-ashes-after-draw-in-only-test-237602">Ellyse Perry</a> has led an Australian sweep of the International Cricket Council's annual awards with the all-rounder named&nbsp;women's cricketer and one-day international player of 2019, the world governing body said on Tuesday.

Perry's compatriot, wicketkeeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alyssa-healy-smashes-record-t20i-score-253255">Alyssa Healy,</a> was the top Twenty20 cricketer for a second straight year while Australia captain Meg Lanning was named skipper of the&nbsp;ICC's 50-overs and T20 teams of the year.

Perry and Healy, both 29, were included in the Lanning-captained sides.

"It's an amazing honour and I'm a little bit shocked, given how many amazing performances there have been across the year," said Perry, who also won the inaugural Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Award in 2017 for the&nbsp;ICC&nbsp;Women's Cricketer of the Year.

"It's amazing to be acknowledged and I do truly appreciate it. It's a really nice way to finish the year on a personal note."

Perry scored three hundreds while averaging 73.50 from 12 ODIs, and took 21 wickets, including a national record 7-22, while becoming the first player to complete 1,000 runs and take 100 wickets in T20 internationals.

In October, Healy scored a world record 148 unbeaten off 61 balls against Sri Lanka – the highest score by a woman in T20Is. She reached her fifty off 25 balls and her maiden century off 46 to register the fastest ton ever by an Australian man or woman.

Ranked No.1 in both the 50-over and T20 formats, Australia will be favourites to retain their&nbsp;Women's T20 World Cup crown on home soil next year.

Thailand bowler Chanida Sutthiruang rounded up the honours with the&nbsp;ICC's Emerging Cricketer of the Year award.

Ellyse Perry has led an Australian sweep of the International Cricket Council's annual awards with the all-rounder named women's cricketer and one-day international player of 2019, the world governing body said on Tuesday.

Ellyse Perry has led an Australian sweep of the International Cricket Council's annual awards with the all-rounder named women's cricketer and one-day international player of 2019, the world governing body said on Tuesday. Perry's compatriot, wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy, was the top Twenty20 cricketer for a second straight year while Australia captain Meg Lanning was named skipper of the ICC's 50-overs and T20 teams of the year. Perry and Healy, both 29, were included in the Lanning-captained sides. "It's an amazing honour and I'm a little bit shocked, given how many amazing performances there have been across the year," said Perry, who also won the inaugural Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Award in 2017 for the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year. "It's amazing to be acknowledged and I do truly appreciate it. It's a really nice way to finish the year on a personal note." Perry scored three hundreds while averaging 73.50 from 12 ODIs, and took 21 wickets, including a national record 7-22, while becoming the first player to complete 1,000 runs and take 100 wickets in T20 internationals. In October, Healy scored a world record 148 unbeaten off 61 balls against Sri Lanka – the highest score by a woman in T20Is. She reached her fifty off 25 balls and her maiden century off 46 to register the fastest ton ever by an Australian man or woman. Ranked No.1 in both the 50-over and T20 formats, Australia will be favourites to retain their Women's T20 World Cup crown on home soil next year. Thailand bowler Chanida Sutthiruang rounded up the honours with the ICC's Emerging Cricketer of the Year award.

Perry leads Australian sweep of top ICC women's awards

Lawyers representing victims of the Afghanistan conflict on Wednesday urged the International Criminal Court to allow a war crimes investigation that would include scrutinizing the actions of US&nbsp;forces.

ICC judges in April rejected the request of prosecutor Fatou Bensouda to examine atrocities allegedly committed in the conflict between 2003 and 2004, including by US&nbsp;troops, Afghan forces and the Taliban.

Judges argued that a successful prosecution was unlikely.

The prosecution has appealed that decision and is arguing the case in three days of hearings before a panel of appeals judges in The Hague.

Lawyer Fergal Gaynor called the hearings "a historic day for accountability in Afghanistan". The 82 victims he represented were "united" in wanting an investigation, he said.

US&nbsp;forces and other foreign troops intervened in Afghanistan in 2001 following the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States and overthrew the Taliban government, which had been protecting al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. In what has become the United States' longest war, about 13,000 US&nbsp;troops remain there.

More than 32,000 civilians have been killed in the conflict, according to the United Nations.

Later on Wednesday, one of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's personal lawyers will address the court.

Counsel Jay Sekulow, who was allowed to file a "friend of the court" brief as an independent expert, said in a statement that he intends to defend the interests of members of the US&nbsp;military "who sacrifice everything to defend us".

Trump has denounced the ICC, the world's only permanent war crimes court, for its "broad, unaccountable, prosecutorial powers". Washington revoked US&nbsp;travel visas for ICC personnel in response to its work on Afghanistan.

Another legal representative of victims, Katherine Gallagher, who acts for two Guantanamo Bay detainees, stressed that so far no high-level US&nbsp;official has been held accountable for alleged violations of the rules of war in Afghanistan or at CIA "black" sites.

"The opening of an investigation into the US&nbsp;torture program would make clear that no one is above the law," she told judges.

Prosecutors have cited preliminary evidence suggesting that international forces in Afghanistan, including employees of the US&nbsp;Central Intelligence Agency, mentally and physically abused detainees, which could constitute a war crime.

The ICC, which opened in 2002, has jurisdiction over war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity if they have been committed by nationals of a signatory state or if they took place on the territory of one of its members. Afghanistan is a member, the United States is not.

The ICC is also only empowered to act when a country is found to be unable or unwilling to examine misdeeds by its own military and leaders. It has struggled due to opposition from the United States, Russia and China.

Lawyers representing victims of the Afghanistan conflict on Wednesday urged the International Criminal Court to allow a war crimes investigation that would include scrutinizing the actions of US forces.

Lawyers representing victims of the Afghanistan conflict on Wednesday urged the International Criminal Court to allow a war crimes investigation that would include scrutinizing the actions of US forces. ICC judges in April rejected the request of prosecutor Fatou Bensouda to examine atrocities allegedly committed in the conflict between 2003 and 2004, including by US troops, Afghan forces and the Taliban. Judges argued that a successful prosecution was unlikely. The prosecution has appealed that decision and is arguing the case in three days of hearings before a panel of appeals judges in The Hague. Lawyer Fergal Gaynor called the hearings "a historic day for accountability in Afghanistan". The 82 victims he represented were "united" in wanting an investigation, he said. US forces and other foreign troops intervened in Afghanistan in 2001 following the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States and overthrew the Taliban government, which had been protecting al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. In what has become the United States' longest war, about 13,000 US troops remain there. More than 32,000 civilians have been killed in the conflict, according to the United Nations. Later on Wednesday, one of US President Donald Trump's personal lawyers will address the court. Counsel Jay Sekulow, who was allowed to file a "friend of the court" brief as an independent expert, said in a statement that he intends to defend the interests of members of the US military "who sacrifice everything to defend us". Trump has denounced the ICC, the world's only permanent war crimes court, for its "broad, unaccountable, prosecutorial powers". Washington revoked US travel visas for ICC personnel in response to its work on Afghanistan. Another legal representative of victims, Katherine Gallagher, who acts for two Guantanamo Bay detainees, stressed that so far no high-level US official has been held accountable for alleged violations of the rules of war in Afghanistan or at CIA "black" sites. "The opening of an investigation into the US torture program would make clear that no one is above the law," she told judges. Prosecutors have cited preliminary evidence suggesting that international forces in Afghanistan, including employees of the US Central Intelligence Agency, mentally and physically abused detainees, which could constitute a war crime. The ICC, which opened in 2002, has jurisdiction over war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity if they have been committed by nationals of a signatory state or if they took place on the territory of one of its members. Afghanistan is a member, the United States is not. The ICC is also only empowered to act when a country is found to be unable or unwilling to examine misdeeds by its own military and leaders. It has struggled due to opposition from the United States, Russia and China.

Afghan victims ask ICC to open Afghan war crimes investigation on appeal

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday confirmed that secretary Jay Shah will be their representative to the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Chief Executives'&nbsp;Committee.

BCCI's 88th Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held at the cricket governing body's headquarters here.BCCI took to Twitter to write,&nbsp;"UPDATE - Today at the BCCI AGM, it was decided that Mr. Jay Shah, Hon. Secretary, will be BCCI's representative to ICC's Chief Executives'&nbsp;Committee, as per the ICC norms. BCCI's representative to the Board of ICC will be decided in due course." Sourav Ganguly, president, Arun Singh Dhumal, treasurer, Mahim Verma, vice president, all took part in the meeting.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly on Sunday questioned the need to have a full-time Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) as he said the body does not have 'much work'&nbsp;to do.

"CAC does not have much work. We keep talking about CAC. Its work is the appointment of the selection committee and coach. Once you appoint selection committee, it stays for four years and the coach remains for three years," Ganguly said in a press conference on Sunday.

"So, where is a need for having a full-time and all the time CAC," he added.

Ganguly conducted a press conference after the BCCI's 88th Annual General Meeting. Jay Shah (Secretary), Arun Singh Dhumal (Treasurer), Mahim Verma (Vice-President) all took part in the meeting.

Ganguly further stated,&nbsp;"When we were conflicted last time, we have been cleared, me and VVS (Laxman). Last year, when I was not holding any position in the BCCI, so, we got clear. So, we needed to get clarity about what is conflict and what is not because we do not want to appoint someone and then it gets cancelled due to conflict of interest because that has happened with us and with Kapil Dev and his team."

The former captain then said conflict issues stop them from everything."Conflicts issues stop us from everything. To get good people and keep them for longer," he said.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday confirmed that secretary Jay Shah will be their representative to the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Chief Executives' Committee.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday confirmed that secretary Jay Shah will be their representative to the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Chief Executives' Committee. BCCI's 88th Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held at the cricket governing body's headquarters here.BCCI took to Twitter to write, "UPDATE - Today at the BCCI AGM, it was decided that Mr. Jay Shah, Hon. Secretary, will be BCCI's representative to ICC's Chief Executives' Committee, as per the ICC norms. BCCI's representative to the Board of ICC will be decided in due course." Sourav Ganguly, president, Arun Singh Dhumal, treasurer, Mahim Verma, vice president, all took part in the meeting. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly on Sunday questioned the need to have a full-time Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) as he said the body does not have 'much work' to do. "CAC does not have much work. We keep talking about CAC. Its work is the appointment of the selection committee and coach. Once you appoint selection committee, it stays for four years and the coach remains for three years," Ganguly said in a press conference on Sunday. "So, where is a need for having a full-time and all the time CAC," he added. Ganguly conducted a press conference after the BCCI's 88th Annual General Meeting. Jay Shah (Secretary), Arun Singh Dhumal (Treasurer), Mahim Verma (Vice-President) all took part in the meeting. Ganguly further stated, "When we were conflicted last time, we have been cleared, me and VVS (Laxman). Last year, when I was not holding any position in the BCCI, so, we got clear. So, we needed to get clarity about what is conflict and what is not because we do not want to appoint someone and then it gets cancelled due to conflict of interest because that has happened with us and with Kapil Dev and his team." The former captain then said conflict issues stop them from everything."Conflicts issues stop us from everything. To get good people and keep them for longer," he said.

BCCI confirms Jay Shah as representative to ICC's Chief Executives' Committee

Myanmar struck back Friday after a surge of global legal pressure over its alleged crimes against the Rohingya, branding an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) "not in accordance with international law".

On Thursday the ICC approved a full probe into Myanmar's 2017 bloody military crackdown against the minority Muslim group.

The decision came after rights groups filed a separate lawsuit in Argentina —- in which former democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi was personally named —- and a further submission of a genocide case at the UN's top court.

Two years ago some 740,000 Rohingya fled over the border into sprawling camps in Bangladesh in violence UN investigators branded as genocide.

Myanmar has repeatedly defended the crackdown as necessary to stamp out militants and has long refused to recognise the authority of the ICC — a position it reiterated Friday.

"The investigation over Myanmar by the ICC is not in accordance with international law," said government spokesman Zaw Htay at a press conference Friday.

Even though the country has not signed up to the court, the ICC ruled last year it has jurisdiction over crimes against the Rohingya because Bangladesh, where they are now refugees, is a member.

Zaw Htay repeated that Myanmar's own committees would investigate any abuses and ensure accountability if needed.

"Myanmar and the government are neither in denial nor closing our eyes," he said.

Critics deride the domestic panels of whitewashing atrocities.

Myanmar accused of genocide

The ICC decision came after West African nation The Gambia on Monday launched a separate case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN's top court, also based in The Hague.

The Gambia, acting on behalf of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), accuses Myanmar of genocide. The first hearings are scheduled for December.

The ICJ normally deals with more legalistic disputes between states but also rules on alleged breaches of UN conventions.

Myanmar, which has signed the Genocide Convention, would respond "in accordance with international legal means," said Zaw Htay.

In the case filed Wednesday in Argentina, Suu Kyi was among top Myanmar officials named for crimes against the Rohingya, the first time the Nobel Laureate has been legally targeted over the crisis.

Human rights groups submitted the lawsuit under "universal jurisdiction", a legal principle that some crimes are so horrific, they can be tried anywhere.

The lawsuit demands top leaders -- including army chief Min Aung Hlaing and civilian leader Suu Kyi -- face justice over the "existential threat" faced by the Rohingya.

Argentine courts have taken up other such cases in relation to ex-dictator Francisco Franco's rule in Spain and the Falun Gong movement in China.

Myanmar's government spokesman offered no comment on the lawsuit.

Myanmar struck back Friday after a surge of global legal pressure over its alleged crimes against the Rohingya, branding an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) "not in accordance with international law".

Myanmar struck back Friday after a surge of global legal pressure over its alleged crimes against the Rohingya, branding an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) "not in accordance with international law". On Thursday the ICC approved a full probe into Myanmar's 2017 bloody military crackdown against the minority Muslim group. The decision came after rights groups filed a separate lawsuit in Argentina —- in which former democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi was personally named —- and a further submission of a genocide case at the UN's top court. Two years ago some 740,000 Rohingya fled over the border into sprawling camps in Bangladesh in violence UN investigators branded as genocide. Myanmar has repeatedly defended the crackdown as necessary to stamp out militants and has long refused to recognise the authority of the ICC — a position it reiterated Friday. "The investigation over Myanmar by the ICC is not in accordance with international law," said government spokesman Zaw Htay at a press conference Friday. Even though the country has not signed up to the court, the ICC ruled last year it has jurisdiction over crimes against the Rohingya because Bangladesh, where they are now refugees, is a member. Zaw Htay repeated that Myanmar's own committees would investigate any abuses and ensure accountability if needed. "Myanmar and the government are neither in denial nor closing our eyes," he said. Critics deride the domestic panels of whitewashing atrocities. Myanmar accused of genocide The ICC decision came after West African nation The Gambia on Monday launched a separate case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN's top court, also based in The Hague. The Gambia, acting on behalf of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), accuses Myanmar of genocide. The first hearings are scheduled for December. The ICJ normally deals with more legalistic disputes between states but also rules on alleged breaches of UN conventions. Myanmar, which has signed the Genocide Convention, would respond "in accordance with international legal means," said Zaw Htay. In the case filed Wednesday in Argentina, Suu Kyi was among top Myanmar officials named for crimes against the Rohingya, the first time the Nobel Laureate has been legally targeted over the crisis. Human rights groups submitted the lawsuit under "universal jurisdiction", a legal principle that some crimes are so horrific, they can be tried anywhere. The lawsuit demands top leaders -- including army chief Min Aung Hlaing and civilian leader Suu Kyi -- face justice over the "existential threat" faced by the Rohingya. Argentine courts have taken up other such cases in relation to ex-dictator Francisco Franco's rule in Spain and the Falun Gong movement in China. Myanmar's government spokesman offered no comment on the lawsuit.

Myanmar rejects ICC probe over Rohingya as legal pressure mounts

Do we work in this or I wait till the IPL, bookie Deepak Aggarwal asked Shakib Al Hasan

Indian referee G S Lakshmi will become the first woman referee to officiate in an International Cricket Council (ICC) event as the apex body of cricket announced the list of the match officials for the league phase of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019.

Former New Zealand captain Jeff Crowe and Lakshmi are among the match officials for the tournament. ICC Elite Panel match referee Crowe had officiated in 488 international matches including three ICC Men's T20 World Cups. South Africa`s Gerhardus Piennar is the third match referee for the event while 12 umpires are on the list.

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019 is scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from October 18 to November 2.

Piennar will officiate in the opening match of the tournament between Scotland and Singapore at the ICC Academy Oval 1 Ground, with Roland Black and Ahsan Raza as the umpires. In the second match at the same venue, between the Netherlands and Kenya, Piennar will team up with umpires Chris Brown and Ravindra Wimalarsiri.

Matches on the same day at the Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi will see Lakshmi officiate along with Sam Nogajski and Sundaram Ravi for a match featuring Hong Kong and Ireland while Crowe, Alex Wharf and Allahudien Palekar will officiate in the Oman vs UAE match later in the day.

ICC Senior Manager Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith said: "We are committed to appointing the finest officials available for any match or tournament and have done our best to put this team together. This is an important tournament with six teams due to book places in next year`s T20 World Cup and I am confident our officials will do a fine job. I wish them all the best."

The appointments for the semi-finals will be announced at the end of the league stage and those for the final will be finalised after the semi-finals.

Match officials at the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019 --Match referees: Jeff Crowe, GS Lakshmi, and Gerhardus Piennar. Umpires: Roland Black, Chris Brown, Lyndon Hannibal, Sam Nogajski, Ahmad Shah Pakteen, Allahudien Palekar, Rashid Riaz, Sundaram Ravi, Ahsan Raza, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Alex Wharf, and Ravindra Wimalarsiri.

Indian referee G S Lakshmi will become the first woman referee to officiate in an International Cricket Council (ICC) event as the apex body of cricket announced the list of the match officials for the league phase of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019.

Indian referee G S Lakshmi will become the first woman referee to officiate in an International Cricket Council (ICC) event as the apex body of cricket announced the list of the match officials for the league phase of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Former New Zealand captain Jeff Crowe and Lakshmi are among the match officials for the tournament. ICC Elite Panel match referee Crowe had officiated in 488 international matches including three ICC Men's T20 World Cups. South Africa`s Gerhardus Piennar is the third match referee for the event while 12 umpires are on the list. The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019 is scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from October 18 to November 2. Piennar will officiate in the opening match of the tournament between Scotland and Singapore at the ICC Academy Oval 1 Ground, with Roland Black and Ahsan Raza as the umpires. In the second match at the same venue, between the Netherlands and Kenya, Piennar will team up with umpires Chris Brown and Ravindra Wimalarsiri. Matches on the same day at the Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi will see Lakshmi officiate along with Sam Nogajski and Sundaram Ravi for a match featuring Hong Kong and Ireland while Crowe, Alex Wharf and Allahudien Palekar will officiate in the Oman vs UAE match later in the day. ICC Senior Manager Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith said: "We are committed to appointing the finest officials available for any match or tournament and have done our best to put this team together. This is an important tournament with six teams due to book places in next year`s T20 World Cup and I am confident our officials will do a fine job. I wish them all the best." The appointments for the semi-finals will be announced at the end of the league stage and those for the final will be finalised after the semi-finals. Match officials at the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019 --Match referees: Jeff Crowe, GS Lakshmi, and Gerhardus Piennar. Umpires: Roland Black, Chris Brown, Lyndon Hannibal, Sam Nogajski, Ahmad Shah Pakteen, Allahudien Palekar, Rashid Riaz, Sundaram Ravi, Ahsan Raza, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Alex Wharf, and Ravindra Wimalarsiri.

Indian G S Lakshmi to become first woman match referee in ICC event

India skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-wants-india-to-step-out-of-comfort-zone-ahead-of-world-t20-251440">Virat Kohli</a> on Monday received an official warning and one demerit point as he was found guilty of a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third T20I match against South Africa.

Kohli was found guilty of breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

The incident took place on Sunday in the fifth over of India's innings when Kohli made contact with South African bowler Beuran Hendricks while taking a run.

It is Kohli's third offence since the introduction of the revised Code in September 2016.

After this one demerit point was added to the disciplinary record, Kohli has now three demerit points.

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JUST IN: Virat Kohli reprimanded for inappropriate physical contact during third 🇮🇳 v 🇿🇦 T20I.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/ycfZaERCgC">https://t.co/ycfZaERCgC</a>
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Earlier, the 30-year-old received one demerit point each during the Pretoria Test against South Africa on January 15, 2018, and against Afghanistan in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 on June 22.

"Kohli admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Richie Richardson of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, and as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," ICC said in a statement.

India skipper Virat Kohli on Monday received an official warning and one demerit point as he was found guilty of a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third T20I match against South Africa.

India skipper Virat Kohli on Monday received an official warning and one demerit point as he was found guilty of a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third T20I match against South Africa. Kohli was found guilty of breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The incident took place on Sunday in the fifth over of India's innings when Kohli made contact with South African bowler Beuran Hendricks while taking a run. It is Kohli's third offence since the introduction of the revised Code in September 2016. After this one demerit point was added to the disciplinary record, Kohli has now three demerit points. JUST IN: Virat Kohli reprimanded for inappropriate physical contact during third 🇮🇳 v 🇿🇦 T20I.#INDvSA https://t.co/ycfZaERCgC — ICC (@ICC) September 23, 2019 × Earlier, the 30-year-old received one demerit point each during the Pretoria Test against South Africa on January 15, 2018, and against Afghanistan in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 on June 22. "Kohli admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Richie Richardson of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, and as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," ICC said in a statement.

Virat Kohli receives official warning and one demerit point for breaching ICC Code of Conduct

Australian batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-and-david-warner-share-celebratory-moments-after-retaining-ashes-248646">Steve Smith</a> has extended his lead over India skipper Virat Kohli at the number one spot in the ICC Test batsmen rankings.

Smith now has a lead of 34 points over Kohli as the rankings were revealed on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old batsmen scored 293 (211+82) runs in the fourth Test and as a result, he has further consolidated his position.

With this, he is virtually assured of the top spot after the end of the five-match series between Australia and England.

Aussie pacer Pat Cummins also remains at the top spot in the bowler rankings. The bowler took seven wickets in the recently concluded match and as a result, he has 63-rating points ahead of the second-placed Proteas bowler Kagiso Rabada.

India's Jasprit Bumrah is positioned at the third place. Josh Hazlewood has also entered the top ten for the first time in his career. He has moved to eighth place.

Afghanistan's 224-run win over Bangladesh in Chattogram has also resulted in major gains for their players.

Afghan skipper Rashid Khan's player of the match effort of 11 for 104 has lifted him from 69th to 37th position in the bowling rankings.

Former Afghan captain Asghar Afghan's scores of 92 and 50 have taken him from 110th to 63rd position while Rahmat Shah's century in the first innings has helped him move from 93rd to 65th.&nbsp;

Australian batsman Steve Smith has extended his lead over India skipper Virat Kohli at the number one spot in the ICC Test batsmen rankings. Smith now has a lead of 34 points over Kohli as the rankings were revealed on Tuesday.

Australian batsman Steve Smith has extended his lead over India skipper Virat Kohli at the number one spot in the ICC Test batsmen rankings. Smith now has a lead of 34 points over Kohli as the rankings were revealed on Tuesday. The 30-year-old batsmen scored 293 (211+82) runs in the fourth Test and as a result, he has further consolidated his position. With this, he is virtually assured of the top spot after the end of the five-match series between Australia and England. Aussie pacer Pat Cummins also remains at the top spot in the bowler rankings. The bowler took seven wickets in the recently concluded match and as a result, he has 63-rating points ahead of the second-placed Proteas bowler Kagiso Rabada. India's Jasprit Bumrah is positioned at the third place. Josh Hazlewood has also entered the top ten for the first time in his career. He has moved to eighth place. Afghanistan's 224-run win over Bangladesh in Chattogram has also resulted in major gains for their players. Afghan skipper Rashid Khan's player of the match effort of 11 for 104 has lifted him from 69th to 37th position in the bowling rankings. Former Afghan captain Asghar Afghan's scores of 92 and 50 have taken him from 110th to 63rd position while Rahmat Shah's century in the first innings has helped him move from 93rd to 65th.

ICC rankings: Steve Smith extends his lead over Virat Kohli at number one position

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