Virat Kohli's stat blast against Pakistan in T20Is: Is the Indian captain 'untested'?

After the IPL 2021 edition ends, on Friday evening (October 15), the cricketing action won't stop as the forthcoming T20 World Cup is set to begin from October 17 (Sunday). While the showpiece event will begin with the qualifying round, the main draw of the ICC event will kick off from October 23.&nbsp;

In the Super 12 round, the India-Pakistan clash is keenly anticipated. It&nbsp;is scheduled to take place on October 24 (Sunday), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. For the unversed, this will be the first time both sides will meet each other post their 2019 ODI World Cup face-off.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led India will start as overwhelming favourites as the Men in Blue have never lost any encounter versus their arch-rivals Pakistan in World Cups (both ODIs and T20Is). In T20 WC history, India lead Pakistan 5-0. Despite all this, Babar Azam-led Men in Green can't be taken lightly as they are the third-best side in ICC T20I rankings and can beat anyone on their day.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-we-dont-have-a-keeper-like-ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-teases-rishabh-pant-in-t20-world-cup-promo-420962">WATCH: 'We don't have a keeper like MS Dhoni' - Virat Kohli teases Rishabh Pant in T20 World Cup promo</a>

Ahead of the Indo-Pak encounter, Pakistan great Javed Miandad has explained what Babar &amp; Co. need to do to beat India. "The match against India will be crucial to getting momentum in the tournament. They are a strong side and have several top players but if we can play without fear and pressure and everyone does his bit we can beat them. T20 format is one where people think that one or two players can win you matches but I look at it this way that in this format everyone needs to contribute in some way or the other for a team to be a winning outfit."

"In this format even a small innings of 20 or a crucial catch or run-out or a good over can win you matches so everyone has to put in his bit. This format is about a collective effort from the team," the 1992 World Cup-winning member added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-india-pakistan-to-england-west-indies-reliving-5-humdingers-in-t20-world-cup-420716">From India-Pakistan to England-West Indies: Reliving 5 humdingers in T20 World Cup</a>

India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B, where they will also face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams will join from the qualifiers. Will either of India or Pakistan win their second title in the marquee event? Only time will tell...

After the IPL 2021 edition ends, on Friday evening (October 15), the cricketing action won't stop as the forthcoming T20 World Cup is set to begin from October 17 (Sunday).

After the IPL 2021 edition ends, on Friday evening (October 15), the cricketing action won't stop as the forthcoming T20 World Cup is set to begin from October 17 (Sunday). While the showpiece event will begin with the qualifying round, the main draw of the ICC event will kick off from October 23. In the Super 12 round, the India-Pakistan clash is keenly anticipated. It is scheduled to take place on October 24 (Sunday), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. For the unversed, this will be the first time both sides will meet each other post their 2019 ODI World Cup face-off. Virat Kohli-led India will start as overwhelming favourites as the Men in Blue have never lost any encounter versus their arch-rivals Pakistan in World Cups (both ODIs and T20Is). In T20 WC history, India lead Pakistan 5-0. Despite all this, Babar Azam-led Men in Green can't be taken lightly as they are the third-best side in ICC T20I rankings and can beat anyone on their day. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'We don't have a keeper like MS Dhoni' - Virat Kohli teases Rishabh Pant in T20 World Cup promo Ahead of the Indo-Pak encounter, Pakistan great Javed Miandad has explained what Babar & Co. need to do to beat India. "The match against India will be crucial to getting momentum in the tournament. They are a strong side and have several top players but if we can play without fear and pressure and everyone does his bit we can beat them. T20 format is one where people think that one or two players can win you matches but I look at it this way that in this format everyone needs to contribute in some way or the other for a team to be a winning outfit." "In this format even a small innings of 20 or a crucial catch or run-out or a good over can win you matches so everyone has to put in his bit. This format is about a collective effort from the team," the 1992 World Cup-winning member added. ALSO READ | From India-Pakistan to England-West Indies: Reliving 5 humdingers in T20 World Cup India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B, where they will also face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams will join from the qualifiers. Will either of India or Pakistan win their second title in the marquee event? Only time will tell...

T20 World Cup: Javed Miandad explains how Babar Azam-led Pakistan can beat Virat Kohli & Co.

The T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from October 17, in the UAE. After a year-long delay, the mega event will finally kick off in UAE after Australia couldn't host the edition last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The seventh edition&nbsp;will follow the template of the previous edition&nbsp;of 2016, held in India. The showpiece event will begin with the qualifying round, where the top-two sides from the two groups will join the ten automatically qualified teams in the Super 12.

Ahead of all the action in the upcoming T20 World Cup, here's a look at some of the most epic encounters in the tournament-history:

1) India beat Pakistan by 5 runs in inaugural final: Winning the toss, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue opted to bat first in the 2007 edition's finale. Riding on Gautam Gambhir's 75 and Rohit Sharma's finishing skills, India posted a competitive 157-5 in 20 overs. In reply, Misbah-ul-Haq lifted Pakistan's spirits when they were down and out at 77-6 to narrow down the equation to 13 off 6 balls, with one wicket in hand. However, Joginder Sharma stood tall in the riveting final over as Misbah (38-ball 43)'s wicket led to Men in Green being all-out for 152 in 19.3 overs. Irfan Pathan was the Man-of-the-Match for his 3 for 16.

2) Netherlands beat England by 4 wickets:&nbsp;In the first match of the second edition, England lost to minnows Netherlands by four wickets. Riding on Luke Wright's 71 and Ravi Bopara's 46, England managed 162-5. While the Dutch were 23-2 and further reduced to 66-3, Tom de Grooth's 49, Peter Borren's 30 and Ryen ten Doeschate's 17-ball 22* took them home in a dramatic last-over finish. Stuart Broad failed to hold his nerves in the last over -- with&nbsp; an overthrow -- as Netherlands earned a last-ball win.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-iconic-ad-on-indo-pak-rivalry-returns-as-countdown-begins-for-mouth-watering-face-off-420617">T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off</a>

3) Australia stun Pakistan in 2010 edition's semi-final: The then defending champions Pakistan locked horns with tournament-favourites Australia in the second semi-final, at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia. Aussies preferred to chase after winning the toss. Riding on Kamran and Umar Akmal's attacking half-centuries, Men in Green posted 191-6.&nbsp;

Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were on the back foot, at 62-4 in 8.2&nbsp;overs. However, Cameron White's brisk 31-ball 43 and Michael Hussey's match-winning 24-ball 60 took the Men in Yellow past the finish line. Hussey's 60 included 6 sixes and 3 fours, at a strike-rate of 250. Aussies hit 14 sixes compared to Pakistan's 8; being the difference between the two sides.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-team-indias-jersey-for-t20-world-cup-displayed-at-burj-khalifa-with-a-breathtaking-light-show-420660">Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show</a>

4) India beat South Africa in thrilling semi-final: In the second semi-final of the 2014 edition, Dhoni-led India faced Faf du Plessis' South Africa at Dhaka. Riding on Du Plessis' 58 and attacking knocks from JP Duminy and David Miller, Proteas posted 172-4. India started off nicely courtesy Rohit Sharma-Ajinkya Rahane, however, they still had lots to do in the last ten overs.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli timed his innings perfectly and took on the attack with Yuvraj Singh not being at his fluent best at the other end. The then vice-captain took on the pacers and handled Imran Tahir with ease, coming to the pitch of the ball and making excellent use of his footwork, to narrow down the equation to 40 off the last 24 balls. Suresh Raina's 10-ball 21 and Kohli's majestic 44-ball 72*, at a strike-rate of 163.64, took India to the final.

5) Carlos Brathwaite's 4 sixes takes Windies to their second title:&nbsp;Daren Sammy-led West Indies opted to bowl first in the 2016 edition's final, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, versus Eoin Morgan-led England. Sammy &amp; Co. restricted England to 155-9. Joe Root, Jos Buttler and David Willey's cameo took England to a healthy total whereas Windies' run-chase started off poorly; being 11-3 in no time. Marlon Samuels -- the Player-of-the-Match in the 2012 edition's final -- stood tall with his unbeaten 85 whereas Dwayne Bravo's 25-ball 27 narrowed down the equation to 19 off 6 balls.&nbsp;

Brathwaite, who was batting on 10 off 6 balls, took Sammy &amp; Co. home with four back-to-back sixes in the last over -- with two balls to spare -- as Windies stunned England and earned a win from the jaws of defeat.&nbsp;

Apart from these, many other humdingers have been witnessed in the T20 WC history. For instance, the India-Pakistan bowl-out clash in 2007, India-Australia 2016 virtual quarter-final encounter, Netherlands-Ireland's epic high-scoring tie in the qualifiers in 2014, India-Bangladesh tie in the 2016 edition, Super-over fixtures in 2012, involving New Zealand-Sri Lanka and the Black Caps-Windies.

The T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from October 17, in the UAE. After a year-long delay, the mega event will finally kick off in UAE after Australia couldn't host the edition last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from October 17, in the UAE. After a year-long delay, the mega event will finally kick off in UAE after Australia couldn't host the edition last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The seventh edition will follow the template of the previous edition of 2016, held in India. The showpiece event will begin with the qualifying round, where the top-two sides from the two groups will join the ten automatically qualified teams in the Super 12. Ahead of all the action in the upcoming T20 World Cup, here's a look at some of the most epic encounters in the tournament-history: 1) India beat Pakistan by 5 runs in inaugural final: Winning the toss, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue opted to bat first in the 2007 edition's finale. Riding on Gautam Gambhir's 75 and Rohit Sharma's finishing skills, India posted a competitive 157-5 in 20 overs. In reply, Misbah-ul-Haq lifted Pakistan's spirits when they were down and out at 77-6 to narrow down the equation to 13 off 6 balls, with one wicket in hand. However, Joginder Sharma stood tall in the riveting final over as Misbah (38-ball 43)'s wicket led to Men in Green being all-out for 152 in 19.3 overs. Irfan Pathan was the Man-of-the-Match for his 3 for 16. 2) Netherlands beat England by 4 wickets: In the first match of the second edition, England lost to minnows Netherlands by four wickets. Riding on Luke Wright's 71 and Ravi Bopara's 46, England managed 162-5. While the Dutch were 23-2 and further reduced to 66-3, Tom de Grooth's 49, Peter Borren's 30 and Ryen ten Doeschate's 17-ball 22* took them home in a dramatic last-over finish. Stuart Broad failed to hold his nerves in the last over -- with an overthrow -- as Netherlands earned a last-ball win. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off 3) Australia stun Pakistan in 2010 edition's semi-final: The then defending champions Pakistan locked horns with tournament-favourites Australia in the second semi-final, at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia. Aussies preferred to chase after winning the toss. Riding on Kamran and Umar Akmal's attacking half-centuries, Men in Green posted 191-6. Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were on the back foot, at 62-4 in 8.2 overs. However, Cameron White's brisk 31-ball 43 and Michael Hussey's match-winning 24-ball 60 took the Men in Yellow past the finish line. Hussey's 60 included 6 sixes and 3 fours, at a strike-rate of 250. Aussies hit 14 sixes compared to Pakistan's 8; being the difference between the two sides. ALSO READ | Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show 4) India beat South Africa in thrilling semi-final: In the second semi-final of the 2014 edition, Dhoni-led India faced Faf du Plessis' South Africa at Dhaka. Riding on Du Plessis' 58 and attacking knocks from JP Duminy and David Miller, Proteas posted 172-4. India started off nicely courtesy Rohit Sharma-Ajinkya Rahane, however, they still had lots to do in the last ten overs. Virat Kohli timed his innings perfectly and took on the attack with Yuvraj Singh not being at his fluent best at the other end. The then vice-captain took on the pacers and handled Imran Tahir with ease, coming to the pitch of the ball and making excellent use of his footwork, to narrow down the equation to 40 off the last 24 balls. Suresh Raina's 10-ball 21 and Kohli's majestic 44-ball 72*, at a strike-rate of 163.64, took India to the final. 5) Carlos Brathwaite's 4 sixes takes Windies to their second title: Daren Sammy-led West Indies opted to bowl first in the 2016 edition's final, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, versus Eoin Morgan-led England. Sammy & Co. restricted England to 155-9. Joe Root, Jos Buttler and David Willey's cameo took England to a healthy total whereas Windies' run-chase started off poorly; being 11-3 in no time. Marlon Samuels -- the Player-of-the-Match in the 2012 edition's final -- stood tall with his unbeaten 85 whereas Dwayne Bravo's 25-ball 27 narrowed down the equation to 19 off 6 balls. Brathwaite, who was batting on 10 off 6 balls, took Sammy & Co. home with four back-to-back sixes in the last over -- with two balls to spare -- as Windies stunned England and earned a win from the jaws of defeat. Apart from these, many other humdingers have been witnessed in the T20 WC history. For instance, the India-Pakistan bowl-out clash in 2007, India-Australia 2016 virtual quarter-final encounter, Netherlands-Ireland's epic high-scoring tie in the qualifiers in 2014, India-Bangladesh tie in the 2016 edition, Super-over fixtures in 2012, involving New Zealand-Sri Lanka and the Black Caps-Windies.

From India-Pakistan to England-West Indies: Reliving 5 humdingers in T20 World Cup

The T20 World Cup is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE, shortly after the end of the IPL 14 season. The mega event is highly-awaited as all the 16 participating teams will have a chance to win the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

In the seventh edition, India and Pakistan are in the same group, i.e. Pool B, and will lock horns with each other on October 24, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. While both sides only meet during ICC events or multi-nation tournaments, post their severely-hit political relations, fans are waiting for the blockbuster face-off; which never fails to catch the attention of the avid cricket followers and produces some memorable moments on the field.

Ahead of the mouth-watering clash, Star Sports -- the official broadcasters of the tournament -- have released a new video from their iconic advertisement series on Indo-Pak cricketing rivalry. It had first caught the attention of the cricketing fraternity during the 2015 ODI World Cup -- getting immense love for showing the friendly banter between the fans from both sides -- and the new version has also gone viral in no time as well.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-warm-up-games-to-pakistan-clash-heres-virat-kohli-led-indias-complete-t20-world-cup-schedule-420440">From warm-up games to Pakistan clash: Here's Virat Kohli-led India's complete T20 World Cup schedule</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Naya <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaukaMauka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaukaMauka</a>, naya offer - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Buy1Break1Free?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Buy1Break1Free</a>! 😉 
 
Are you ready to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LiveTheGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LiveTheGame</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a>? 
 
ICC Men's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 2021 | Oct 24 | Broadcast starts: 7 PM, Match starts: 7:30 PM | Star Sports &amp; Disney+Hotstar <a href="https://t.co/MNsOql9cjO">pic.twitter.com/MNsOql9cjO</a>
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1448283154087772172?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-indias-new-jersey-best-way-to-celebrate-fans-excitement-for-t20-world-cup-says-ganguly-420512">Team India's new jersey best way to celebrate fans' excitement for T20 World Cup, says Ganguly</a>

Speaking about the latest installation from the popular promo, Sanjog Gupta, Head-Sports, Star and Disney India, was quoted as saying by News 18, “The India-Pakistan clash is one of the biggest matchups in the world of sports. The clash at an ICC event attracts core and casual Cricket fans as well as viewers who don’t watch any other Cricket. The historic on-field rivalry between both teams is unparalleled and we believe that the iconic ‘Mauka Mauka’ campaign captures the spirit of this rivalry, blending competitiveness, banter and sportsmanship."

India and Pakistan's group also comprises New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams will join from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool A consists of Australia, England, West Indies and South Africa while they will also have two more teams joining them from the qualifying round.

The T20 World Cup is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE, shortly after the end of the IPL 14 season. The mega event is highly-awaited as all the 16 participating teams will have a chance to win the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.

The T20 World Cup is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE, shortly after the end of the IPL 14 season. The mega event is highly-awaited as all the 16 participating teams will have a chance to win the biggest title in the shortest format of the game. In the seventh edition, India and Pakistan are in the same group, i.e. Pool B, and will lock horns with each other on October 24, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. While both sides only meet during ICC events or multi-nation tournaments, post their severely-hit political relations, fans are waiting for the blockbuster face-off; which never fails to catch the attention of the avid cricket followers and produces some memorable moments on the field. Ahead of the mouth-watering clash, Star Sports -- the official broadcasters of the tournament -- have released a new video from their iconic advertisement series on Indo-Pak cricketing rivalry. It had first caught the attention of the cricketing fraternity during the 2015 ODI World Cup -- getting immense love for showing the friendly banter between the fans from both sides -- and the new version has also gone viral in no time as well. ALSO READ | From warm-up games to Pakistan clash: Here's Virat Kohli-led India's complete T20 World Cup schedule Naya #MaukaMauka, naya offer - #Buy1Break1Free! 😉 Are you ready to #LiveTheGame in #INDvPAK? ICC Men's #T20WorldCup 2021 | Oct 24 | Broadcast starts: 7 PM, Match starts: 7:30 PM | Star Sports & Disney+Hotstar pic.twitter.com/MNsOql9cjO — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 13, 2021 × ALSO READ | Team India's new jersey best way to celebrate fans' excitement for T20 World Cup, says Ganguly Speaking about the latest installation from the popular promo, Sanjog Gupta, Head-Sports, Star and Disney India, was quoted as saying by News 18, “The India-Pakistan clash is one of the biggest matchups in the world of sports. The clash at an ICC event attracts core and casual Cricket fans as well as viewers who don’t watch any other Cricket. The historic on-field rivalry between both teams is unparalleled and we believe that the iconic ‘Mauka Mauka’ campaign captures the spirit of this rivalry, blending competitiveness, banter and sportsmanship." India and Pakistan's group also comprises New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams will join from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool A consists of Australia, England, West Indies and South Africa while they will also have two more teams joining them from the qualifying round.

T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off

From Men's T20 World Cup to Premier League, October 24 should go in history as a day with the most iconic clashes being staged between fierce sports rivals. It's super Sunday for sports lovers as they will surely be glued to their TV screens with back-to-back unmissable blockbusters.

From Men's T20 World Cup to Premier League, October 24 should go in history as a day with the most iconic clashes being staged between fierce sports rivals. It's super Sunday for sports lovers as they will surely be glued to their TV screens with back-to-back unmissable blockbusters. Could October 24, 2021, get any better? From cricket to football, here's a list of clashes that just can't be missed on Oct 24. Watch one, record some, but do check the list of all matches and mark your calendars. English Premier League: Manchester United vs Liverpool Premier League fans are thrilled for the Manchester United vs Liverpool clash as this high-profile rivalry will be a treat to watch after star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo re-joined Man Utd. The match will kick off at 9:00pm IST. ALSO READ | Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show La Liga: Barcelona vs Real Madrid (El Clasico) The glorious history and epic rivalry between Spanish football clubs — Real Madrid and Barcelona — is set to take another turn in the absence of former Barcelona legend Lionel Messi and former star defender of Real, Sergio Ramos. Surprisingly, both will play together for French club Paris Saint-Germain. On October 24, Barca will take on Real Madrid and the match is scheduled for 7:45pm IST. Ligue 1: Paris Saint-Germain vs Olympique de Marseille 'El Clasico' is expected to be bland in the absence of some star players, but both Messi and Ramos have a chance to play (in case they are in the playing XI) on the same date as PSG is set to take on Olympique de Marseille moments after the Barca vs Madrid's La Liga clash will end. Marseille vs PSG is scheduled for 12:15am (Oct 25) IST. IN PICS | Iconic shades of blue: Evolution of Team India's jersey from 1985 to 2021 Serie A: Juventus vs Inter Milan It's a day for heavy-weight football clashes in European leagues as in Serie A, Juventus will face Inter Milan. Fans who loved to see Ronaldo play for Juventus might get disappointed, but nothing to worry about, they can watch the Portuguese star in action against Liverpool earlier in the day. Juventus vs Inter Milan is scheduled to start at 12:15am (Oct 25) IST. Men's T20 World Cup 2021: India vs Pakistan Virat Kohli-led team India will start their T20 World Cup campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. It is a known fact that cricket rivalry between the two nations goes above and beyond and when it comes to cricket in the World Cup, it is unparalleled among fans in the South Asian cricket-crazy countries. The bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. The match will kick start at 7:30pm IST.

From India vs Pakistan to Manchester United vs Liverpool: Could October 24 get any better?

The unveiling of Virat Kohli-led Team India's jersey for the T20 World Cup got bigger and better with a breathtaking light show at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is one of the host cities for the tournament that will get underway from October 17.

The unveiling of Virat Kohli-led Team India's jersey for the T20 World Cup got bigger and better with a breathtaking light show at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is one of the host cities for the tournament that will get underway from October 17. On Wednesday (October 13), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the Indian team's jersey, which is inspired by the fans and called the 'Billion Cheers Jersey'. It comes in shades of prussian blue and royal blue. IN PICS | Iconic shades of blue: Evolution of Team India's jersey from 1985 to 2021 "This is the first time in the history of Indian cricket that fans have been memorialised on a jersey. It carries their chants and cheers from iconic past matches, transformed into unique soundwave patterns," stated a release from ML Sports. Now, in a video posted on the official Twitter handle of BCCI, India's new kit can be seen on Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa. "The Team India World Cup jersey unveil gets bigger and better with a projection on the iconic Burj Khalifa. Watch the historic moment here!" BCCI wrote as the caption. Watch the video here: The Team India World Cup jersey unveil gets bigger and better with a projection on the iconic Burj Khalifa. Watch the historic moment here! 🇮🇳 @mpl_sport #BillionCheersJersey #ShowYourGame #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/Ee8S6rGD6c — BCCI (@BCCI) October 14, 2021 × ALSO READ | Babar Azam makes BIG claim ahead of marquee face-off between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup The Men in Blue will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. The tournament was scheduled to be held in India but the COVID-19 situation in the country forced organisers to shift it to the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Ahead of the tournament, India tweaked its squad as Shardul Thakur has been added to the 15-member squad as he replaced Axar Patel, who will now be on the list of standby players.

Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show

The T20 World Cup is set to be held in the UAE, from October 17. While the tournament will start with the qualifying round, along with the warm-up encounters from October 18-20, cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the India-Pakistan clash in the showpiece event, which will take place on October 24.

For the unversed, India and Pakistan lock horns with each other only during ICC events or multi-nation tournaments owing to their poor political relations. Thus, whenever the two cricketing giants meet in big-ticket tournaments, it makes heads turn and becomes one of the most anticipated matches of the mega event.

So far, India have have a 5-0 lead over Pakistan in T20 WC history. Thus, the pressure will be on the Babar Azam-led Men in Green when they face Virat Kohli's Team India. However, Babar feels his side will be able to break their jinx versus India in the forthcoming edition.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-politely-turns-down-bccis-offer-to-succeed-ravi-shastri-as-team-india-coach-reports-420351">Rahul Dravid politely turns down BCCI's offer to succeed Ravi Shastri as Team India coach: Reports</a>

In an interview with the International Cricket Council (ICC) website, the Pakistan captain Babar said, "We've been playing cricket in UAE for the past 3-4 years and we know the conditions really well. We know how the wicket will behave and the adjustments batters will have to make. On the day who plays the better cricket, wins the match. If you ask me, we will win."

He further opined, "Your belief and confidence as a group matter a lot before a tournament. As a team, our confidence and morale are really high. We are not thinking of the past but the future. We are preparing for that. I am fully confident that we are well prepared and will play good cricket on the day."

"All the players have entered the side after a good domestic performance. We have a lot to learn from the senior players in the side because they have so much experience, they have played the World Cup and leagues before. 7-8 players in our squad have also played the Champions Trophy before which brings out different confidence," added Babar.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-iconic-ad-on-indo-pak-rivalry-returns-as-countdown-begins-for-mouth-watering-face-off-420617">T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off</a>

The last time India met Pakistan in the T20 WC was during the 2016 edition, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue thrashed Pakistan by 6 wickets. Moreover, the last face-off between both teams came during&nbsp;the 2019 ODI World Cup, where Kohli's India beat Sarfaraz Ahmed &amp; Col by 89 runs (DLS method).

India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B in the 2021 T20 WC, along with New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams from the qualifiers.&nbsp;Pakistan have lots to play for vs Team India. Will they break their World Cup-jinx vs their arch-rivals? Only time will tell..

The T20 World Cup is set to be held in the UAE, from October 17. While the tournament will start with the qualifying round, along with the warm-up encounters from October 18-20, cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the India-Pakistan clash in the showpiece event, which will take place on October 24.

The T20 World Cup is set to be held in the UAE, from October 17. While the tournament will start with the qualifying round, along with the warm-up encounters from October 18-20, cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the India-Pakistan clash in the showpiece event, which will take place on October 24. For the unversed, India and Pakistan lock horns with each other only during ICC events or multi-nation tournaments owing to their poor political relations. Thus, whenever the two cricketing giants meet in big-ticket tournaments, it makes heads turn and becomes one of the most anticipated matches of the mega event. So far, India have have a 5-0 lead over Pakistan in T20 WC history. Thus, the pressure will be on the Babar Azam-led Men in Green when they face Virat Kohli's Team India. However, Babar feels his side will be able to break their jinx versus India in the forthcoming edition. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid politely turns down BCCI's offer to succeed Ravi Shastri as Team India coach: Reports In an interview with the International Cricket Council (ICC) website, the Pakistan captain Babar said, "We've been playing cricket in UAE for the past 3-4 years and we know the conditions really well. We know how the wicket will behave and the adjustments batters will have to make. On the day who plays the better cricket, wins the match. If you ask me, we will win." He further opined, "Your belief and confidence as a group matter a lot before a tournament. As a team, our confidence and morale are really high. We are not thinking of the past but the future. We are preparing for that. I am fully confident that we are well prepared and will play good cricket on the day." "All the players have entered the side after a good domestic performance. We have a lot to learn from the senior players in the side because they have so much experience, they have played the World Cup and leagues before. 7-8 players in our squad have also played the Champions Trophy before which brings out different confidence," added Babar. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off The last time India met Pakistan in the T20 WC was during the 2016 edition, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue thrashed Pakistan by 6 wickets. Moreover, the last face-off between both teams came during the 2019 ODI World Cup, where Kohli's India beat Sarfaraz Ahmed & Col by 89 runs (DLS method). India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B in the 2021 T20 WC, along with New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams from the qualifiers. Pakistan have lots to play for vs Team India. Will they break their World Cup-jinx vs their arch-rivals? Only time will tell..

Babar Azam makes BIG claim ahead of marquee face-off between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan once again expressed his disappointment over New Zealand and England's decision to pull out of their respective tours of Pakistan. New Zealand were in Pakistan for a limited-overs series but decided to cancel the series ahead of the first ODI between the two sides in Rawalpindi. England, on the other hand, refused to send their teams for the tour.

While expressing his disappointment over England's decision to snub their tour of Pakistan, the Pakistan Prime Minister said money has become a big player now and plays a major role in influencing the decisions of the cricket boards around the world.

Khan insisted that Indian controls world cricket now as the International Cricket Council (ICC) receives the majority of its funding from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Indian markets. The Pakistan PM said no country can dare to pull out of their commitments against India, unlike&nbsp;Pakistan.

“England let itself down. I think that there is still this feeling in England that they do a great favour to play with countries like Pakistan. One of the reasons is that, obviously, the money," Khan was quoted as saying in an interview with the&nbsp;Middle East Eye.

“Money is a big player now. For the players, as well as for the cricket boards. The money lies in India, so basically, India controls world cricket now. I mean, they do, whatever they say goes. No one would dare do that to India because they know that the sums involved, India can sort of produce much more money,” he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-are-we-carrying-him-inzamam-questions-ex-captains-inclusion-in-babar-azam-led-pakistans-t20-wc-squad-419937">&nbsp;'Why are we carrying him' - Inzamam questions ex captain's inclusion in Babar Azam-led Pakistan's T20 WC squad</a>

New Zealand had pulled out of their tour of Pakitsan on the day of the first ODI against the hosts in Rawalpindi after receiving a 'security threat alert'. Days after New Zealand's decision, the England Cricket Board (ECB) also announced that the teams will not travel to Pakistan due to "increasing concerns about travelling to the region".

Recently, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)'s chief Ramiz Raja had stated that cricket in the country can collapse if the Indian government wants. Raja had explained how PCB receives 50 per cent of its budget from ICC, which is dependent on the BCCI for funding.

"The ICC is a politicised body divided between the Asian and Western blocs and 90 per cent of its revenues are generated from India. It is frightening," the PCB chief had said.

"In a way, India's business houses are running Pakistan cricket and if tomorrow the Indian PM decides he will not allow any funding to Pakistan, this cricket board can collapse," he added.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan once again expressed his disappointment over New Zealand and England's decision to pull out of their respective tours of Pakistan.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan once again expressed his disappointment over New Zealand and England's decision to pull out of their respective tours of Pakistan. New Zealand were in Pakistan for a limited-overs series but decided to cancel the series ahead of the first ODI between the two sides in Rawalpindi. England, on the other hand, refused to send their teams for the tour. While expressing his disappointment over England's decision to snub their tour of Pakistan, the Pakistan Prime Minister said money has become a big player now and plays a major role in influencing the decisions of the cricket boards around the world. Khan insisted that Indian controls world cricket now as the International Cricket Council (ICC) receives the majority of its funding from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Indian markets. The Pakistan PM said no country can dare to pull out of their commitments against India, unlike Pakistan. “England let itself down. I think that there is still this feeling in England that they do a great favour to play with countries like Pakistan. One of the reasons is that, obviously, the money," Khan was quoted as saying in an interview with the Middle East Eye. “Money is a big player now. For the players, as well as for the cricket boards. The money lies in India, so basically, India controls world cricket now. I mean, they do, whatever they say goes. No one would dare do that to India because they know that the sums involved, India can sort of produce much more money,” he added. Also Read: 'Why are we carrying him' - Inzamam questions ex captain's inclusion in Babar Azam-led Pakistan's T20 WC squad New Zealand had pulled out of their tour of Pakitsan on the day of the first ODI against the hosts in Rawalpindi after receiving a 'security threat alert'. Days after New Zealand's decision, the England Cricket Board (ECB) also announced that the teams will not travel to Pakistan due to "increasing concerns about travelling to the region". Recently, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)'s chief Ramiz Raja had stated that cricket in the country can collapse if the Indian government wants. Raja had explained how PCB receives 50 per cent of its budget from ICC, which is dependent on the BCCI for funding. "The ICC is a politicised body divided between the Asian and Western blocs and 90 per cent of its revenues are generated from India. It is frightening," the PCB chief had said. "In a way, India's business houses are running Pakistan cricket and if tomorrow the Indian PM decides he will not allow any funding to Pakistan, this cricket board can collapse," he added.

India controls world cricket now: Imran Khan after New Zealand, England pull out of Pakistan tour

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has expressed his opinion on one of the most-awaited clashes in the upcoming T20 World Cup — India vs Pakistan. The cricket rivalry between the two nations is epic and when it comes to the World Cup, the frenzy among fans can't be compared.&nbsp;

Last, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. The bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons.&nbsp;

In the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE and Oman, both teams will lock horns with an aim to win the coveted trophy. As Pakistan have never defeated India at the Cricket World Cup, stakes are high for the Babar Azam-led team, on the other hand, the Virat Kohli-led team will also have the pressure of&nbsp;maintaining their unbeaten record.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fresh-dls-rules-icc-makes-changes-in-playing-conditions-for-t20-world-cup-2021-semi-final-final-419667">Fresh DLS rules: ICC makes changes in playing conditions for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-final &amp; final</a>

Now, weighing in on the match, Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi said that India vs Pakistan is always a "high-pressure" game and teams should be able to handle it.&nbsp;

"On his official YouTube video, Afridi said, "See, India vs Pakistan is always a high-pressure game. And whichever team handles pressure better will win. Also, whichever teams make the smallest of mistakes has a better chance of winning."

On the inclusion of Shoaib Malik into Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad, Afridi has said that it will hold the side in good stead once the tournament starts.&nbsp;

"Good to see Shoaib Malik recalled for the T20 World Cup. As a senior and experienced player, he can contribute big time for Pakistan. All the best," tweeted Afridi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-an-aim-to-win-back-the-urn-england-name-strongest-available-squad-for-ashes-tour-419655">With an aim to win back the urn, England name strongest available squad for Ashes tour</a>

The Pakistan squad for the ICC men's T20 World Cup 2021 will depart for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on October 15. They will play two warm-up matches against the West Indies and South Africa on October 18 and 20 respectively before taking on India in a Group-2 fixture on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has expressed his opinion on one of the most-awaited clashes in the upcoming T20 World Cup — India vs Pakistan. The cricket rivalry between the two nations is epic and when it comes to the World Cup, the frenzy among fans can't be compared.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has expressed his opinion on one of the most-awaited clashes in the upcoming T20 World Cup — India vs Pakistan. The cricket rivalry between the two nations is epic and when it comes to the World Cup, the frenzy among fans can't be compared. Last, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. The bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons. In the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE and Oman, both teams will lock horns with an aim to win the coveted trophy. As Pakistan have never defeated India at the Cricket World Cup, stakes are high for the Babar Azam-led team, on the other hand, the Virat Kohli-led team will also have the pressure of maintaining their unbeaten record. ALSO READ | Fresh DLS rules: ICC makes changes in playing conditions for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-final & final Now, weighing in on the match, Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi said that India vs Pakistan is always a "high-pressure" game and teams should be able to handle it. "On his official YouTube video, Afridi said, "See, India vs Pakistan is always a high-pressure game. And whichever team handles pressure better will win. Also, whichever teams make the smallest of mistakes has a better chance of winning." On the inclusion of Shoaib Malik into Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad, Afridi has said that it will hold the side in good stead once the tournament starts. "Good to see Shoaib Malik recalled for the T20 World Cup. As a senior and experienced player, he can contribute big time for Pakistan. All the best," tweeted Afridi. ALSO READ | With an aim to win back the urn, England name strongest available squad for Ashes tour The Pakistan squad for the ICC men's T20 World Cup 2021 will depart for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on October 15. They will play two warm-up matches against the West Indies and South Africa on October 18 and 20 respectively before taking on India in a Group-2 fixture on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

T20 World Cup: Shahid Afridi weighs in on 'high-pressure' game between India and Pakistan

Mumbai Indians (MI) failed to qualify for the IPL 2021 playoffs despite pulling off a brilliant 42-run win against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their final league game of the season at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Friday (October 08). Mumbai Indians produced a magnificent performance with the bat as they went on to post their highest-ever total in IPL history in search of an unlikely win against SRH to secure a berth in the playoffs.

MI needed to win by a staggering 171 runs to qualify for the playoffs and went on to post 235 runs on the board, batting first in Abu Dhabi. However, they couldn't restrict SRH below 65 runs as the Manish Pandey-led side scored 193 runs to ensure MI's early exit from the competition.

It was an entertaining contest between the two teams in Abu Dhabi with the MI batsmen going berserk after captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first. A fan was spotted in the stands with a hilarious request for Rohit during his side's innings in the game.&nbsp;

The fan came with a placard requesting the MI skipper and team India vice-captain to arrange two tickets for the India-Pakistan clash in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The fan was spotted by the TV cameras and grabbed the limelight during MI's innings.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-sport-uae-2021-instead-of-india-2021-in-t20-world-cup-jersey-leaked-picture-sparks-controversy-419359">&nbsp;Pakistan sport 'UAE 2021' instead of India 2021 in T20 World Cup jersey, leaked picture sparks controversy</a>

The T20 World Cup 2021 is scheduled to kick off from Sunday (October 17) post the conclusion of the ongoing IPL 2021 in UAE. The World Cup will be staged in UAE and Oman with arch-rivals India and Pakistan locking horns against each other in the opening game of Group 2 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on October 24.

India will then take on New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two games in the group stages of the T20 World Cup 2021.

Mumbai Indians (MI) failed to qualify for the IPL 2021 playoffs despite pulling off a brilliant 42-run win against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their final league game of the season at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Friday (October 08).

Mumbai Indians (MI) failed to qualify for the IPL 2021 playoffs despite pulling off a brilliant 42-run win against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their final league game of the season at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Friday (October 08). Mumbai Indians produced a magnificent performance with the bat as they went on to post their highest-ever total in IPL history in search of an unlikely win against SRH to secure a berth in the playoffs. MI needed to win by a staggering 171 runs to qualify for the playoffs and went on to post 235 runs on the board, batting first in Abu Dhabi. However, they couldn't restrict SRH below 65 runs as the Manish Pandey-led side scored 193 runs to ensure MI's early exit from the competition. It was an entertaining contest between the two teams in Abu Dhabi with the MI batsmen going berserk after captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first. A fan was spotted in the stands with a hilarious request for Rohit during his side's innings in the game. The fan came with a placard requesting the MI skipper and team India vice-captain to arrange two tickets for the India-Pakistan clash in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The fan was spotted by the TV cameras and grabbed the limelight during MI's innings. Also Read: Pakistan sport 'UAE 2021' instead of India 2021 in T20 World Cup jersey, leaked picture sparks controversy The T20 World Cup 2021 is scheduled to kick off from Sunday (October 17) post the conclusion of the ongoing IPL 2021 in UAE. The World Cup will be staged in UAE and Oman with arch-rivals India and Pakistan locking horns against each other in the opening game of Group 2 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on October 24. India will then take on New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two games in the group stages of the T20 World Cup 2021.

Fan requests Rohit Sharma to arrange tickets for India-Pakistan T20 WC clash during IPL 2021, pic goes viral

The countdown for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021 has begun with millions of fans across the globe waiting for arch-rivals India and Pakistan to lock horns in the showpiece event. India will take on Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament in Dubai on October 24.

The stakes are high whenever the two teams clash against each other and it will be no different this time around as well. The arch-rivals share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket but have been meeting in only major ICC competitions since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations.

Ahead of the much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021, former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed shared his views on&nbsp;the match-up between the two teams. Javed believes India can beat Pakistan even if they play normal cricket as they have superstars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma among others in their ranks.

Javed, who played 22 Tests and 163 ODIs for his country, reckoned that Pakistan, on the other hand, will have to play better than their best cricket to come out on top of India in the blockbuster encounter.&nbsp;

“For India, they don’t need to peak. They can just play normally, to their strengths and still beat Pakistan. But if Pakistan are to win, they have to play better than their best cricket that day. So at the moment, they appear the favourites," former Pakistan pacer Javed&nbsp;Sana Ajmal on her YouTube channel.

"India have Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul so many match-winners. Jasprit Bumrah is such a terrific bowler. If you look at their overall team, they look favourites to win the World Cup,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-board-can-collapse-if-indian-government-wants-chairman-ramiz-raja-419037">Pakistan Cricket Board can collapse if Indian government wants: Chairman Ramiz Raja</a>

However, the former Pakistan pacer believes Pakistan can get the result of the contest in their favour if they make some changes in their squad. Javed said he would want the team management to include opening batsman Fakhar Zaman in the playing XI, owing to his great record against India. He also backed the likes of Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez and Mohammad Rizwan to perform in the high-octane clash.

"Although India are favourites to beat Pakistan, things can turn out slightly different on that day. If Pakistan are to win, they need to make a few changes to their squad. For example, Fakhar Zaman should definitely be brought in because some players always perform well against certain teams," said Javed.

"For Pakistan, the T20 World Cup is one thing and playing India is another altogether. Fakhar played an aggressive innings at the Champions Trophy. If he is included and he fires, Babar Rizwan scores some runs, Babar gets going, or even someone like Hafeez makes a mark, these four batsmen can score against quality bowling in pressure situations," he added.

India have never lost against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup and will look to maintain their perfect streak when they take on Babar Azam &amp; Co. in their T20 World Cup opener in Dubai on October 24.

The countdown for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021 has begun with millions of fans across the globe waiting for arch-rivals India and Pakistan to lock horns in the showpiece event.

The countdown for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021 has begun with millions of fans across the globe waiting for arch-rivals India and Pakistan to lock horns in the showpiece event. India will take on Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament in Dubai on October 24. The stakes are high whenever the two teams clash against each other and it will be no different this time around as well. The arch-rivals share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket but have been meeting in only major ICC competitions since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations. Ahead of the much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021, former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed shared his views on the match-up between the two teams. Javed believes India can beat Pakistan even if they play normal cricket as they have superstars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma among others in their ranks. Javed, who played 22 Tests and 163 ODIs for his country, reckoned that Pakistan, on the other hand, will have to play better than their best cricket to come out on top of India in the blockbuster encounter. “For India, they don’t need to peak. They can just play normally, to their strengths and still beat Pakistan. But if Pakistan are to win, they have to play better than their best cricket that day. So at the moment, they appear the favourites," former Pakistan pacer Javed Sana Ajmal on her YouTube channel. "India have Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul so many match-winners. Jasprit Bumrah is such a terrific bowler. If you look at their overall team, they look favourites to win the World Cup,” he added. Also Read: Pakistan Cricket Board can collapse if Indian government wants: Chairman Ramiz Raja However, the former Pakistan pacer believes Pakistan can get the result of the contest in their favour if they make some changes in their squad. Javed said he would want the team management to include opening batsman Fakhar Zaman in the playing XI, owing to his great record against India. He also backed the likes of Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez and Mohammad Rizwan to perform in the high-octane clash. "Although India are favourites to beat Pakistan, things can turn out slightly different on that day. If Pakistan are to win, they need to make a few changes to their squad. For example, Fakhar Zaman should definitely be brought in because some players always perform well against certain teams," said Javed. "For Pakistan, the T20 World Cup is one thing and playing India is another altogether. Fakhar played an aggressive innings at the Champions Trophy. If he is included and he fires, Babar Rizwan scores some runs, Babar gets going, or even someone like Hafeez makes a mark, these four batsmen can score against quality bowling in pressure situations," he added. India have never lost against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup and will look to maintain their perfect streak when they take on Babar Azam & Co. in their T20 World Cup opener in Dubai on October 24.

India don't need to peak, they can play normally and still beat Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021: Aaqib Javed

Former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad expressed his opinions on the Indian squad picked for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE and Oman. Prasad believes that the Virat Kohli-led team could use one more pacer besides the likes of Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.&nbsp;

"It is a decent squad but I feel that they are one fast bowler short actually ...because we are playing the majority of the matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so maybe one more fast bowler could have been handy," said Prasad while speaking to PTI in an interview.&nbsp;

Apart from the above-mentioned pacers, the Indian squad has named Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur as reserves. Meanwhile, doubts remain over the services of all-rounder Hardik Pandya as he hasn't bowled during the second phase of IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-pakistan-beat-india-in-t20-world-cup-pcb-to-get-blank-cheque-ramiz-raja-reveals-investors-big-claim-418875">If Pakistan beat India in T20 World Cup, PCB to get blank cheque: Ramiz Raja reveals investor's BIG claim</a>

"Had we played more matches in Sharjah, this was okay, but one fast bowler could have (been there) and more important with Hardik not bowling, I think it is a little cause of concern," Prasad added.

"...he has taken the strain of captaincy across all formats, which is clearly visible right now on his individual performances. So, I think (it) must be a right decision to take," said Prasad Virat's decision.&nbsp;

"We want Virat, a man who can get 70 centuries in a decade's span, we would want to see the same Virat. If the T20 captaincy is affecting the batting, then it is the right decision to take," added the veteran of 96 first-class matches.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-man-of-many-talents-rohit-sharma-imitates-mi-legends-shares-video-on-instagram-watch-418679">IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH</a>

Not just Prasad, ever since the squad was announced, critics and some of the former players expressed their opinions over the snub of some top players like Shikhar Dhawan, Sanju Samson and Yuzvendra Chahal. Most importantly, they have performed well during the IPL 2021 UAE leg.&nbsp;

On the other hand, some selected players in the Indian squad like Rahul Chahar, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav have failed to impress so far. Former Indian spinner, Harbhajan Singh on Tuesday (October 5) said he is still hoping to see Yuzvendra Chahal in India's T20 World Cup squad.&nbsp;

On the other hand, former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels the selectors shouldn't make any change in the squad despite some players going through a lean patch ahead of the showpiece event in UAE.&nbsp;

India squad:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar, Varun, Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishan Kishan.&nbsp;

Standby players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar.

Former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad expressed his opinions on the Indian squad picked for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE and Oman.

Former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad expressed his opinions on the Indian squad picked for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to begin from October 17 in the UAE and Oman. Prasad believes that the Virat Kohli-led team could use one more pacer besides the likes of Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. "It is a decent squad but I feel that they are one fast bowler short actually ...because we are playing the majority of the matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so maybe one more fast bowler could have been handy," said Prasad while speaking to PTI in an interview. Apart from the above-mentioned pacers, the Indian squad has named Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur as reserves. Meanwhile, doubts remain over the services of all-rounder Hardik Pandya as he hasn't bowled during the second phase of IPL 2021. ALSO READ | If Pakistan beat India in T20 World Cup, PCB to get blank cheque: Ramiz Raja reveals investor's BIG claim "Had we played more matches in Sharjah, this was okay, but one fast bowler could have (been there) and more important with Hardik not bowling, I think it is a little cause of concern," Prasad added. "...he has taken the strain of captaincy across all formats, which is clearly visible right now on his individual performances. So, I think (it) must be a right decision to take," said Prasad Virat's decision. "We want Virat, a man who can get 70 centuries in a decade's span, we would want to see the same Virat. If the T20 captaincy is affecting the batting, then it is the right decision to take," added the veteran of 96 first-class matches. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH Not just Prasad, ever since the squad was announced, critics and some of the former players expressed their opinions over the snub of some top players like Shikhar Dhawan, Sanju Samson and Yuzvendra Chahal. Most importantly, they have performed well during the IPL 2021 UAE leg. On the other hand, some selected players in the Indian squad like Rahul Chahar, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav have failed to impress so far. Former Indian spinner, Harbhajan Singh on Tuesday (October 5) said he is still hoping to see Yuzvendra Chahal in India's T20 World Cup squad. On the other hand, former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels the selectors shouldn't make any change in the squad despite some players going through a lean patch ahead of the showpiece event in UAE. India squad: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar, Varun, Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishan Kishan. Standby players: Shreyas Iyer, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar.

MSK Prasad highlights the area of concern in the Indian squad for T20 World Cup

Men's T20 World Cup will get underway from October 17 and Virat Kohli-led team India will begin their campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai.&nbsp;

A clash between India and Pakistan in any sport sees a fierce rivalry, but in cricket, it goes above and beyond. But when it comes to cricket in the World Cup, the frenzy is unparalleled among fans in the South Asian cricket-crazy countries.&nbsp;

The bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups.&nbsp;

It's difficult to predict the possible outcome of the match as both the teams have included top-class players in their squad, eying the coveted trophy. As Pakistan have never defeated India at the Cricket World Cup, stakes are high for the Babar Azam-led team to salvage their reputation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-man-of-many-talents-rohit-sharma-imitates-mi-legends-shares-video-on-instagram-watch-418679">IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH</a>

In the same context, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has been quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan that a "blank cheque is ready" for the PCB if Pakistan beat&nbsp;India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

As per the site, Raja was stressing the importance of making PCB self-sufficient in a meeting with the Senate Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC).&nbsp;

He said, "PCB runs 50 per cent on the funding of ICC. 90 per cent of funding to ICC comes from India. I’m afraid that if India stopped funding ICC, then PCB might collapse because PCB gives zero per cent funding to ICC. I’m determined to make Pakistan cricket strong."

"One strong investor told me that a blank cheque is ready for the PCB if Pakistan beats India in the upcoming T20 World Cup," he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/western-arrogance-michael-holding-slams-england-for-pulling-out-of-pakistan-tour-says-would-not-have-done-that-to-india-418704">'Western arrogance': Michael Holding slams England for pulling out of Pakistan tour, says 'would not have done that to India'</a>

The showpiece event has become extremely important for the Pakistan team because of the recent embarrassment inflicted by the New Zealand and England cricket boards, when they cancelled their Pak tour citing security reasons.&nbsp;

The decision caused humiliation for the South Asian country, which is largely shunned by top teams in the wake of an attack by Islamist militants on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians.&nbsp;

Reflecting on the same, Raja said, "If our cricket economy is strong, we won’t be used and then binned by teams like England and New Zealand. Best cricket team and best cricket economy are two big challenges."

Men's T20 World Cup will get underway from October 17 and Virat Kohli-led team India will begin their campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai.

Men's T20 World Cup will get underway from October 17 and Virat Kohli-led team India will begin their campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. A clash between India and Pakistan in any sport sees a fierce rivalry, but in cricket, it goes above and beyond. But when it comes to cricket in the World Cup, the frenzy is unparalleled among fans in the South Asian cricket-crazy countries. The bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. It's difficult to predict the possible outcome of the match as both the teams have included top-class players in their squad, eying the coveted trophy. As Pakistan have never defeated India at the Cricket World Cup, stakes are high for the Babar Azam-led team to salvage their reputation. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH In the same context, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has been quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan that a "blank cheque is ready" for the PCB if Pakistan beat India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. As per the site, Raja was stressing the importance of making PCB self-sufficient in a meeting with the Senate Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC). He said, "PCB runs 50 per cent on the funding of ICC. 90 per cent of funding to ICC comes from India. I’m afraid that if India stopped funding ICC, then PCB might collapse because PCB gives zero per cent funding to ICC. I’m determined to make Pakistan cricket strong." "One strong investor told me that a blank cheque is ready for the PCB if Pakistan beats India in the upcoming T20 World Cup," he added. ALSO READ | 'Western arrogance': Michael Holding slams England for pulling out of Pakistan tour, says 'would not have done that to India' The showpiece event has become extremely important for the Pakistan team because of the recent embarrassment inflicted by the New Zealand and England cricket boards, when they cancelled their Pak tour citing security reasons. The decision caused humiliation for the South Asian country, which is largely shunned by top teams in the wake of an attack by Islamist militants on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians. Reflecting on the same, Raja said, "If our cricket economy is strong, we won’t be used and then binned by teams like England and New Zealand. Best cricket team and best cricket economy are two big challenges."

If Pakistan beat India in T20 World Cup, PCB to get blank cheque: Ramiz Raja reveals investor's BIG claim

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq is not new to controversies. The ex-all-rounder is known for his absurd comments about the Indian cricket team and has often faced the heat for the same. Razzaq has made yet another controversial claim, stating that Team India do not play&nbsp;bilateral cricket against Pakistan because they can't compete against them.

India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations. India share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket but have been meeting only in major ICC competitions for over eight years now.

However, Razzaq claimed India are the inferior team between the two and thus do not want to play against Pakistan. His absurd remarks came during a show on Pakistan news channel ARY News when the host asked him to compare the kind of talent Pakistan have in their cricket team to that of India.

"Do India have the kind of pace bowlers or all-rounders like Pakistan or you feel there is no match?" - the host asked Razzaq. The former Pakistan all-rounder responded by claiming that India do not have the kind of talent Pakistan possess in their ranks.

"I don't think India can compete with Pakistan. The kind of talent Pakistan has is entirely different and this I don't think is a good thing for cricket that India and Pakistan are not having matches. It used to be an exciting prospect and give players the opportunity to show how much pressure they could handle. So that has gone missing. I feel that had it continued, people would have found out that the kind of talent Pakistan has, India does not," Razzaq&nbsp;said on ARY News.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-ipl-teams-likely-to-be-sold-for-inr-30-35-billion-mega-auction-can-take-place-in-december-punjab-kings-co-owner-418333">New IPL teams likely to be sold for INR 30-35 billion, mega auction can take place in December: Punjab Kings co-owner</a>

Razzaq also went on to compare some of the greats of the Indian cricket team with former Pakistan cricketers while trying to prove that his country has produced better talent over the years. The former Pakistan all-rounder claimed Pakistan have had better players potential wise when compared to India.

"India too has a good team, I'm not saying anything otherwise. Even they have good players. But if you look at it potential wise, we had Imran Khan, they had Kapil Dev. If you are to compare, then Imran Khan was a lot better. Then we had Wasim Akram, they did not have a player of that calibre," said Razzaq.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/educated-nations-should-not-follow-india-shahid-afridi-makes-controversial-statement-after-nz-abandon-pakistan-tour-416182">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/educated-nations-should-not-follow-india-shahid-afridi-makes-controversial-statement-after-nz-abandon-pakistan-tour-416182">'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour</a>

"We had Javed Miandad, and they had Gavaskar. There is no comparison. Then we had Inzamam, Yousuf, Younis, Shahid Afridi… they had Dravid, Sehwag. If you look at it overall, Pakistan have always produced good players. All these are big reasons. This is why India don't want to play against us," he added.

India have never lost against Pakistan&nbsp;in both ODI and T20 World Cups and have maintained a perfect record against the arch-rivals so far. India will look to extend their unbeaten run against Pakistan when the two teams meet in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021 on October 24 in UAE. 
&nbsp;

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq is not new to controversies. The ex-all-rounder is known for his absurd comments about the Indian cricket team and has often faced the heat for the same.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq is not new to controversies. The ex-all-rounder is known for his absurd comments about the Indian cricket team and has often faced the heat for the same. Razzaq has made yet another controversial claim, stating that Team India do not play bilateral cricket against Pakistan because they can't compete against them. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations. India share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket but have been meeting only in major ICC competitions for over eight years now. However, Razzaq claimed India are the inferior team between the two and thus do not want to play against Pakistan. His absurd remarks came during a show on Pakistan news channel ARY News when the host asked him to compare the kind of talent Pakistan have in their cricket team to that of India. "Do India have the kind of pace bowlers or all-rounders like Pakistan or you feel there is no match?" - the host asked Razzaq. The former Pakistan all-rounder responded by claiming that India do not have the kind of talent Pakistan possess in their ranks. "I don't think India can compete with Pakistan. The kind of talent Pakistan has is entirely different and this I don't think is a good thing for cricket that India and Pakistan are not having matches. It used to be an exciting prospect and give players the opportunity to show how much pressure they could handle. So that has gone missing. I feel that had it continued, people would have found out that the kind of talent Pakistan has, India does not," Razzaq said on ARY News. Also Read: New IPL teams likely to be sold for INR 30-35 billion, mega auction can take place in December: Punjab Kings co-owner Razzaq also went on to compare some of the greats of the Indian cricket team with former Pakistan cricketers while trying to prove that his country has produced better talent over the years. The former Pakistan all-rounder claimed Pakistan have had better players potential wise when compared to India. "India too has a good team, I'm not saying anything otherwise. Even they have good players. But if you look at it potential wise, we had Imran Khan, they had Kapil Dev. If you are to compare, then Imran Khan was a lot better. Then we had Wasim Akram, they did not have a player of that calibre," said Razzaq. Also Read: 'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour "We had Javed Miandad, and they had Gavaskar. There is no comparison. Then we had Inzamam, Yousuf, Younis, Shahid Afridi… they had Dravid, Sehwag. If you look at it overall, Pakistan have always produced good players. All these are big reasons. This is why India don't want to play against us," he added. India have never lost against Pakistan in both ODI and T20 World Cups and have maintained a perfect record against the arch-rivals so far. India will look to extend their unbeaten run against Pakistan when the two teams meet in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021 on October 24 in UAE.

Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq

While the IPL 2021 edition's second and final leg is underway in the UAE, the cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the forthcoming T20 World Cup to kick off from October 17. The seventh edition of the marquee event will commence from October 17 but the main round will start from October 23.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 24 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium. As the blockbuster clash nears, the tickets have been sold out already. As per a report in PakPassion.net, the tickets were bought soon after they became available on the website. For the unversed, the ticket price of the Indo-Pak tie is already double of a regular match ticket, however, the insane craze led to them being sold out instantly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-spare-them-babar-azam-shoaib-akhtar-issues-warning-to-new-zealand-for-t20-world-cup-face-off-after-cancelling-pakistan-tour-414663">Don't spare them, Babar Azam: Shoaib Akhtar issues warning to New Zealand for T20 World Cup face-off after cancelling Pakistan tour</a>

India and Pakistan have met each other in every T20 World Cup edition, barring the 2009 and 2010 editions, in England and West Indies respectively. So far, the Men in Blue have managed to beat their arch-rivals on every occasion in the T20 WC history. Leading the Men in Green 5-0, Virat Kohli-led India will start as overwhelming favourites, however, Babar Azam-led Pakistan cannot be taken lightly as they occupy the third position in ICC T20 rankings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

India and Pakistan's group also comprises New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two other sides will join them from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool A comprises Australia, England, West Indies and South Africa while two more teams will also join them from the qualifying round.

While the IPL 2021 edition's second and final leg is underway in the UAE, the cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the forthcoming T20 World Cup to kick off from October 17.

While the IPL 2021 edition's second and final leg is underway in the UAE, the cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the forthcoming T20 World Cup to kick off from October 17. The seventh edition of the marquee event will commence from October 17 but the main round will start from October 23. India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 24 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium. As the blockbuster clash nears, the tickets have been sold out already. As per a report in PakPassion.net, the tickets were bought soon after they became available on the website. For the unversed, the ticket price of the Indo-Pak tie is already double of a regular match ticket, however, the insane craze led to them being sold out instantly. ALSO READ | Don't spare them, Babar Azam: Shoaib Akhtar issues warning to New Zealand for T20 World Cup face-off after cancelling Pakistan tour India and Pakistan have met each other in every T20 World Cup edition, barring the 2009 and 2010 editions, in England and West Indies respectively. So far, the Men in Blue have managed to beat their arch-rivals on every occasion in the T20 WC history. Leading the Men in Green 5-0, Virat Kohli-led India will start as overwhelming favourites, however, Babar Azam-led Pakistan cannot be taken lightly as they occupy the third position in ICC T20 rankings. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary India and Pakistan's group also comprises New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two other sides will join them from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool A comprises Australia, England, West Indies and South Africa while two more teams will also join them from the qualifying round.

HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears

Legendary Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis has made a bold prediction ahead of the much-awaited blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The arch-rivals will lock horns in their campaign opener at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on October 24. Ahead of the clash, Younis has touted Pakistan to beat India if Babar Azam &amp; Co. play to their potential in the opening encounter.

Arch-rivals Indian and Pakistan, which have not played a bilateral series since 2013, meet only in major ICC events. Thus, any encounter between the two sides becomes an intriguing affair with millions across the world glued to their television screens to watch the two teams in action against each other. India and Pakistan have been drawn in Group 2 at T20 World Cup 2021 which also features New Zealand and Afghanistan.

"I honestly believe that Pakistan can beat India in their opening encounter if they play to their potential. It won’t be easy but we certainly have the personnel who can come good," Younis told CricWick when asked about Pakistan's chances against India at the T20 World Cup this year.

A clash between India and Pakistan also brings in a lot of pressure for the players from both sides with expectations at an all-time high. Younis believes it will be crucial for both teams to nullify the pressure well and get the better of their opposition.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-inability-to-play-bilateral-cricket-against-india-has-cost-them-millions-of-dollars-former-england-captain-417349">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-inability-to-play-bilateral-cricket-against-india-has-cost-them-millions-of-dollars-former-england-captain-417349">Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain</a>

"It's a big game and pressure will be on both teams as it will be their first match of the tournament. But the first few deliveries and runs will be crucial but if we are able to negotiate it well we can win the game," the former Pakistan pacer added.

India are unbeaten against Pakistan so far in both T20 and ODI World Cups. India have met Pakistan five times in the T20 World Cup and have won in all five meetings. The last meeting between the two sides came at the ODI World Cup in 2019 where India hammered Pakistan by 89 runs via the DLS method.

Legendary Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis has made a bold prediction ahead of the much-awaited blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021.

Legendary Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis has made a bold prediction ahead of the much-awaited blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The arch-rivals will lock horns in their campaign opener at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on October 24. Ahead of the clash, Younis has touted Pakistan to beat India if Babar Azam & Co. play to their potential in the opening encounter. Arch-rivals Indian and Pakistan, which have not played a bilateral series since 2013, meet only in major ICC events. Thus, any encounter between the two sides becomes an intriguing affair with millions across the world glued to their television screens to watch the two teams in action against each other. India and Pakistan have been drawn in Group 2 at T20 World Cup 2021 which also features New Zealand and Afghanistan. "I honestly believe that Pakistan can beat India in their opening encounter if they play to their potential. It won’t be easy but we certainly have the personnel who can come good," Younis told CricWick when asked about Pakistan's chances against India at the T20 World Cup this year. A clash between India and Pakistan also brings in a lot of pressure for the players from both sides with expectations at an all-time high. Younis believes it will be crucial for both teams to nullify the pressure well and get the better of their opposition. Also Read: Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain "It's a big game and pressure will be on both teams as it will be their first match of the tournament. But the first few deliveries and runs will be crucial but if we are able to negotiate it well we can win the game," the former Pakistan pacer added. India are unbeaten against Pakistan so far in both T20 and ODI World Cups. India have met Pakistan five times in the T20 World Cup and have won in all five meetings. The last meeting between the two sides came at the ODI World Cup in 2019 where India hammered Pakistan by 89 runs via the DLS method.

Pakistan can beat India: Waqar Younis makes bold prediction ahead of T20 World Cup clash

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket. An encounter between the two arch-rivals is always a blockbuster affair with millions cheering for the two sides. However, the two teams have not played any bilateral cricket for over eight years now due to political tensions between the two nations.

India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series against each other in 2013 and have since met only at major ICC events. The two teams last played a bilateral series in January 2013 when Pakistan toured India for a limited-overs series consisting of two&nbsp;T20Is and three ODIs.

Despite efforts, the two cricket boards have not agreed to play bilateral cricket against each other so far which has cost Pakistan millions of dollars, feels former England captain Michael Atherton. Pakistan have also had to play the majority of their home matches in the UAE post the attack on the Sri Lankan team's bus in Lahore in 2009.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/educated-nations-should-not-follow-india-shahid-afridi-makes-controversial-statement-after-nz-abandon-pakistan-tour-416182">&nbsp;'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour</a>

"Pakistan's inability to play India in bilateral events has cost them hundreds of millions of dollars in the past decade, or how being in exile in the UAE for nearly a decade cost significant amounts of financial and psychological capital," Atherton wrote in his column for The Times.

Artherton further pointed out how Pakistan have been the most frequent travellers&nbsp;by a distance in the COVID-19 era where most teams have refrained from playing a lot of away matches. Pakistan have toured England, Australia, and West Indies among others to play series in bio-bubbles amidst COVID-19.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-government-in-contact-with-interpol-over-threatening-emails-to-new-zealand-team-says-minister-416444">&nbsp;Pakistan government in contact with Interpol over threatening emails to New Zealand team, says minister</a>

"When England have pulled out of tours to South Africa, Bangladesh and Pakistan, and when Australia have played no Test matches away from home since the pandemic began, Pakistan have travelled all over the world (and, remember, there are no touring fees paid to the visitors these days). Pakistan have played the most number of matches away from home since Covid struck, by some distance," Atherton&nbsp;wrote.

Recently, New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan while England also confirmed that won't be sending their teams to the country. The decisions from the two boards came as a major jolt to PCB, which is staring at huge losses for being unable to host the two series at home.

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket. An encounter between the two arch-rivals is always a blockbuster affair with millions cheering for the two sides.

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of cricket. An encounter between the two arch-rivals is always a blockbuster affair with millions cheering for the two sides. However, the two teams have not played any bilateral cricket for over eight years now due to political tensions between the two nations. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series against each other in 2013 and have since met only at major ICC events. The two teams last played a bilateral series in January 2013 when Pakistan toured India for a limited-overs series consisting of two T20Is and three ODIs. Despite efforts, the two cricket boards have not agreed to play bilateral cricket against each other so far which has cost Pakistan millions of dollars, feels former England captain Michael Atherton. Pakistan have also had to play the majority of their home matches in the UAE post the attack on the Sri Lankan team's bus in Lahore in 2009. Also Read: 'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour "Pakistan's inability to play India in bilateral events has cost them hundreds of millions of dollars in the past decade, or how being in exile in the UAE for nearly a decade cost significant amounts of financial and psychological capital," Atherton wrote in his column for The Times. Artherton further pointed out how Pakistan have been the most frequent travellers by a distance in the COVID-19 era where most teams have refrained from playing a lot of away matches. Pakistan have toured England, Australia, and West Indies among others to play series in bio-bubbles amidst COVID-19. Also Read: Pakistan government in contact with Interpol over threatening emails to New Zealand team, says minister "When England have pulled out of tours to South Africa, Bangladesh and Pakistan, and when Australia have played no Test matches away from home since the pandemic began, Pakistan have travelled all over the world (and, remember, there are no touring fees paid to the visitors these days). Pakistan have played the most number of matches away from home since Covid struck, by some distance," Atherton wrote. Recently, New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan while England also confirmed that won't be sending their teams to the country. The decisions from the two boards came as a major jolt to PCB, which is staring at huge losses for being unable to host the two series at home.

Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain

Austalia batsman Usman Khawaja admitted he misses watching India and Pakistan play bilateral cricket against each other. Khawaja believes bilateral cricket between the two nations is the biggest thing world cricket is missing at present as he batted for the resumption of cricket between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries on the cricket pitch but the arch-rivals now meet only in major ICC competitions as bilateral cricket between the two countries has been stalled due to political tensions. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2013 and have since met only in ICC events.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Khawaja fondly spoke about his childhood days when he used to watch India and Pakistan play against each other with his parents and called for the ties to resume.

“The thing I miss most about international cricket and I know growing up watching my parents watch with, my dad watching cricket, it’s the India vs Pakistan matches. I absolutely hate the fact that it doesn’t happen anymore. I think it’s the biggest thing that cricket is missing and it’ll be such an amazing thing if we can get those two countries to play again,” Khawaja said on his YouTube channel.

Khawaja, a Pakistan-born Aussie cricketer, revealed he even discussed the matter with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Cricket Australia. The left-hand batsman, who has played 44 Tests and 40 ODIs for Australia, believes cricket can bring the two nations together.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/educated-nations-should-not-follow-india-shahid-afridi-makes-controversial-statement-after-nz-abandon-pakistan-tour-416182">'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour</a>

"It’s something I’ve been pushing with the ICC. I’ve had chats with the people at the ICC about this. I’ve had chats with Cricket Australia about this. I think it’s the one thing that can bring the two countries together," said Khawaja.

India and Pakistan last met each other in the 2019 ODI World Cup and will now lock horns in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The arch-rivals will open their T20 World Cup campaign against each other in a blockbuster clash in Dubai on October 24.

Austalia batsman Usman Khawaja admitted he misses watching India and Pakistan play bilateral cricket against each other. Khawaja believes bilateral cricket between the two nations is the biggest thing world cricket is missing at present as he batted for the resumption of cricket between India and Pakistan.

Austalia batsman Usman Khawaja admitted he misses watching India and Pakistan play bilateral cricket against each other. Khawaja believes bilateral cricket between the two nations is the biggest thing world cricket is missing at present as he batted for the resumption of cricket between India and Pakistan. India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries on the cricket pitch but the arch-rivals now meet only in major ICC competitions as bilateral cricket between the two countries has been stalled due to political tensions. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2013 and have since met only in ICC events. In a video on his YouTube channel, Khawaja fondly spoke about his childhood days when he used to watch India and Pakistan play against each other with his parents and called for the ties to resume. “The thing I miss most about international cricket and I know growing up watching my parents watch with, my dad watching cricket, it’s the India vs Pakistan matches. I absolutely hate the fact that it doesn’t happen anymore. I think it’s the biggest thing that cricket is missing and it’ll be such an amazing thing if we can get those two countries to play again,” Khawaja said on his YouTube channel. Khawaja, a Pakistan-born Aussie cricketer, revealed he even discussed the matter with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Cricket Australia. The left-hand batsman, who has played 44 Tests and 40 ODIs for Australia, believes cricket can bring the two nations together. Also Read: 'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour "It’s something I’ve been pushing with the ICC. I’ve had chats with the people at the ICC about this. I’ve had chats with Cricket Australia about this. I think it’s the one thing that can bring the two countries together," said Khawaja. India and Pakistan last met each other in the 2019 ODI World Cup and will now lock horns in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The arch-rivals will open their T20 World Cup campaign against each other in a blockbuster clash in Dubai on October 24.

Absolutely hate the fact that it doesn't happen anymore: Usman Khawaja bats for India-Pakistan bilateral cricket to resume

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi has been left disappointed after New Zealand's decision to abandon their tour of Pakistan. Afridi said what New Zealand have done is 'unforgivable' for Pakistan as the Black Caps pulled out of the tour without waiting for the country's security forces to assess the situation in the host nation.

New Zealand decided to not take the field in the first ODI against Pakistan in Rawalpindi on September 17. Hours before the start of the game, the entire tour was called off citing a security threat to the Kiwis. Afridi believes instead of deciding to call off the tour, New Zealand should have discussed the situation with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

"We all know that there is a huge amount of scrutiny when it comes to arranging tours. Proper investigations are conducted by the security members of the touring nation. The routes are defined and only when the process is completed, that is when the teams are given the green signal to visit the country," Afridi was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan.

"New Zealand cricketers are loved in Pakistan and for them to do something like this is unforgivable. If there was any potential threat, they should have been shared with the PCB and waited for Pakistan's security forces to assess the situation," the former Pakistan cricketer added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-security-personnel-deployed-for-new-zealand-consumed-biryani-worth-rs-28-million-reports-415017">Pakistan security personnel deployed for New Zealand consumed biryani worth Rs 2.8 million: Reports</a>

Days after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan and returned home, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also announced the withdrawal of England's tour of Pakistan. ECB confirmed that it won't be able to honour its commitment of sending its men's and women's teams to Pakistan.

Afridi, who is known for making absurd remarks against India, has once again stirred controversy with his latest comments. Reacting to reports that the email which prompted New Zealand to cancel their tour of Pakistan, originated from India, Afridi made an absurd remark stating that India is after Pakistan but other 'educated nations' should not&nbsp;make the same mistake.

"If you have to look at the bigger picture then I think we need to take a decision which shows the world that we are also a country and we have our pride. It's ok if one country is behind us but I don't think other countries should also make the same mistake. They are all educated nations and should not follow India," said Afridi.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/threat-came-from-india-pakistans-information-minister-blames-india-after-new-zealand-abandoned-cricket-tour-414906">'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour</a>

Pakistan's&nbsp;information minister Fawad Chaudhry had claimed the email which raised the security threat issue with New Zealand cricket, was sent from India through a VPN using Singapore's location.&nbsp;

Afridi went on to claim that Pakistan had once toured India despite getting threats. He also cited the example of Pakistan's tour of England post the COVID-19 lockdown last year and asserted that cricket should be used as a tool to improve relations between two countries and not worsen them.

"Instead, cricket should improve relations. Situation was bad in India. We were getting threats. Our board asked us to go and we went there. Similarly, during Covid-19, the situation that there was in England, the cricket went on. If you trust false e-mails and cancel tours then I believe you are offering them fodder to win. This is not the right way," Afridi added.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi has been left disappointed after New Zealand's decision to abandon their tour of Pakistan. Afridi said what New Zealand have done is 'unforgivable' for Pakistan as the Black Caps pulled out of the tour without waiting for the country's security forces to assess the situation in the host nation.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi has been left disappointed after New Zealand's decision to abandon their tour of Pakistan. Afridi said what New Zealand have done is 'unforgivable' for Pakistan as the Black Caps pulled out of the tour without waiting for the country's security forces to assess the situation in the host nation. New Zealand decided to not take the field in the first ODI against Pakistan in Rawalpindi on September 17. Hours before the start of the game, the entire tour was called off citing a security threat to the Kiwis. Afridi believes instead of deciding to call off the tour, New Zealand should have discussed the situation with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). "We all know that there is a huge amount of scrutiny when it comes to arranging tours. Proper investigations are conducted by the security members of the touring nation. The routes are defined and only when the process is completed, that is when the teams are given the green signal to visit the country," Afridi was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. "New Zealand cricketers are loved in Pakistan and for them to do something like this is unforgivable. If there was any potential threat, they should have been shared with the PCB and waited for Pakistan's security forces to assess the situation," the former Pakistan cricketer added. Also Read: Pakistan security personnel deployed for New Zealand consumed biryani worth Rs 2.8 million: Reports Days after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan and returned home, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also announced the withdrawal of England's tour of Pakistan. ECB confirmed that it won't be able to honour its commitment of sending its men's and women's teams to Pakistan. Afridi, who is known for making absurd remarks against India, has once again stirred controversy with his latest comments. Reacting to reports that the email which prompted New Zealand to cancel their tour of Pakistan, originated from India, Afridi made an absurd remark stating that India is after Pakistan but other 'educated nations' should not make the same mistake. "If you have to look at the bigger picture then I think we need to take a decision which shows the world that we are also a country and we have our pride. It's ok if one country is behind us but I don't think other countries should also make the same mistake. They are all educated nations and should not follow India," said Afridi. Also Read: 'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour Pakistan's information minister Fawad Chaudhry had claimed the email which raised the security threat issue with New Zealand cricket, was sent from India through a VPN using Singapore's location. Afridi went on to claim that Pakistan had once toured India despite getting threats. He also cited the example of Pakistan's tour of England post the COVID-19 lockdown last year and asserted that cricket should be used as a tool to improve relations between two countries and not worsen them. "Instead, cricket should improve relations. Situation was bad in India. We were getting threats. Our board asked us to go and we went there. Similarly, during Covid-19, the situation that there was in England, the cricket went on. If you trust false e-mails and cancel tours then I believe you are offering them fodder to win. This is not the right way," Afridi added.

'Educated nations should not follow India': Shahid Afridi makes controversial statement after NZ abandon Pakistan tour

Pakistan haven't had much success versus Team India in ICC events. To date, they are yet to beat India in the ODI and T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Green remain ahead of India, by 3-2, in the Champions Trophy face-offs. Thus, Babar Azam &amp; Co. will look to replicate their 2017 Champions Trophy final performance versus Virat Kohli's India when both the sides meet in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 19.

For the unversed, India and Pakistan are set to lock horns on October 24, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as both sides are in the same group (Pool 2) in the showpiece event. Ahead of the marquee clash, pacer Hasan Ali feels Pakistan can beat India and they will look at their 2017 CT final heroics as an inspiration.

"When we won the Champions Trophy (in 2017), it was a very good time for us and we will try to beat them again in the T20 World Cup. We will give our best. Playing against India is always a pressure game because of the expectations of fans from both countries," Hasan Ali said on Wednesday (September 14) as per a report in India Today.

"Even those people who don't normally watch cricket follow the India vs Pakistan matches, so the pressure on the players is high but we will give it our best," he added.

It is important to note that Hasan was one of the star-performers for Pakistan in the CT'17 final versus India (returning with 3 for 19). Thus, he will look to replicate the same this time around when India-Pakistan lock horns in the forthcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan's group also comprise New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers.

Pakistan haven't had much success versus Team India in ICC events. To date, they are yet to beat India in the ODI and T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Green remain ahead of India, by 3-2, in the Champions Trophy face-offs.

Pakistan haven't had much success versus Team India in ICC events. To date, they are yet to beat India in the ODI and T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Green remain ahead of India, by 3-2, in the Champions Trophy face-offs. Thus, Babar Azam & Co. will look to replicate their 2017 Champions Trophy final performance versus Virat Kohli's India when both the sides meet in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 19. For the unversed, India and Pakistan are set to lock horns on October 24, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as both sides are in the same group (Pool 2) in the showpiece event. Ahead of the marquee clash, pacer Hasan Ali feels Pakistan can beat India and they will look at their 2017 CT final heroics as an inspiration. "When we won the Champions Trophy (in 2017), it was a very good time for us and we will try to beat them again in the T20 World Cup. We will give our best. Playing against India is always a pressure game because of the expectations of fans from both countries," Hasan Ali said on Wednesday (September 14) as per a report in India Today. "Even those people who don't normally watch cricket follow the India vs Pakistan matches, so the pressure on the players is high but we will give it our best," he added. It is important to note that Hasan was one of the star-performers for Pakistan in the CT'17 final versus India (returning with 3 for 19). Thus, he will look to replicate the same this time around when India-Pakistan lock horns in the forthcoming World Cup. India and Pakistan's group also comprise New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers.

Will try to replicate 2017 CT final: Hasan Ali aims to spearhead Babar Azam-led Pakistan's win over India in T20 WC

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli &amp; Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues.

Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-rohit-sharmas-backing-led-to-r-ashwins-inclusion-in-virat-kohli-led-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-412041">How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a>

For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament.

Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game. Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli & Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues. Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin. ALSO READ | How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament. Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

T20 World Cup: Varun Chakravarthy pips R Ashwin in Gautam Gambhir's India XI for marquee face-off vs Pakistan

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE after IPL 2021. Both the senior men's cricket team haven't faced each other since the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter and, thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering clash, on October 24 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Ahead of the marquee clash, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam feels Virat Kohli-led India will be under more pressure.&nbsp; Speaking ahead of encounter between the two bitter rivals, Azam said that his side would like to start Pakistan's campaign by ending its losing streak against the Men in Blue in World Cup. "India will be under more pressure, as compared to Pakistan, during the T20 World Cup match as they have not played T20 cricket as a group for quite a while. India are currently playing Test cricket and after that, they will get busy with franchise cricket. The UAE is like our home ground and we will try to give our 100 percent on the field," Azam was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan.

"He shared his mindset with us and we would carry that forward. We have picked a balanced squad for New Zealand ODIs. We are facing issues in the middle-order and this series is a good opportunity for players making a comeback to cement their place in the side. There is no pressure of captaincy on me," Azam added.&nbsp;

To back Babar's claims, Kohli-led India's main squad hasn't played together in T20Is since their England home series in early 2021. India had played three T20Is in Sri Lanka in July but it comprised several uncapped Indian players, led by Shikhar Dhawan. While all the Indian players will be seen in IPL 2021's second and final leg, ahead of the T20 WC, it won't be easy for them to regroup and start well in the showpiece event.

Nonetheless, India will remain confident ahead of facing an opposition they've always managed to beat in World Cups (ODIs and T20Is). India lead Pakistan 7-0 in ODI World Cup whereas are 5-0 ahead in terms of head-to-head battle in the T20 WC.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE after IPL 2021. Both the senior men's cricket team haven't faced each other since the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter and, thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering clash, on October 24 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE after IPL 2021. Both the senior men's cricket team haven't faced each other since the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter and, thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering clash, on October 24 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam feels Virat Kohli-led India will be under more pressure. Speaking ahead of encounter between the two bitter rivals, Azam said that his side would like to start Pakistan's campaign by ending its losing streak against the Men in Blue in World Cup. "India will be under more pressure, as compared to Pakistan, during the T20 World Cup match as they have not played T20 cricket as a group for quite a while. India are currently playing Test cricket and after that, they will get busy with franchise cricket. The UAE is like our home ground and we will try to give our 100 percent on the field," Azam was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. "He shared his mindset with us and we would carry that forward. We have picked a balanced squad for New Zealand ODIs. We are facing issues in the middle-order and this series is a good opportunity for players making a comeback to cement their place in the side. There is no pressure of captaincy on me," Azam added. To back Babar's claims, Kohli-led India's main squad hasn't played together in T20Is since their England home series in early 2021. India had played three T20Is in Sri Lanka in July but it comprised several uncapped Indian players, led by Shikhar Dhawan. While all the Indian players will be seen in IPL 2021's second and final leg, ahead of the T20 WC, it won't be easy for them to regroup and start well in the showpiece event. Nonetheless, India will remain confident ahead of facing an opposition they've always managed to beat in World Cups (ODIs and T20Is). India lead Pakistan 7-0 in ODI World Cup whereas are 5-0 ahead in terms of head-to-head battle in the T20 WC.

They haven't played T20 cricket as a group: Babar Azam feels Virat Kohli-led India will be under pressure ahead of marquee clash at WC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday (August 17) announced the schedule of the Men's T20 World Cup 2021 as the high-octane event will get underway from 17 October. The final clash will be in Dubai on November 14 and a reserve day is also kept aside on November 15. The highlight will be India's first clash as they will begin their campaign against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. The official site of ICC stated, "Group 2 will commence with a heavyweight clash between India and Pakistan in Dubai on 24 October at 6pm local time." Previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 50-over World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. ALSO READ | India vs England: 'If you go after one of our guys...': KL Rahul reacts to heated altercations during Lord's Test Oman will take on Papua New Guinea in the opener, which will be followed by an evening match between Scotland and Bangladesh in round one of the competition. Australia will play South Africa and holders West Indies meet England in Group 1 matches on October 23 at the start of the Super 12, which will eventually decide the four semi-finalists. Another crucial clash will be on October 30 in Dubai as England will take on Australia. In the 16-nation tournament, the top two teams from both group A and group B in the first round will advance to the so-called Super 12 stage, where the game's heavyweight nations join the tournament. The matches will be held across four venues — the Dubai International Stadium, the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the Sharjah Stadium, and the Oman Cricket Academy Ground. ALSO READ | 'I just wonder whether he lost his off-stump': Michael Vaughan on Virat Kohli It’s out! 📅 Jot down the dates – the full fixtures of the ICC Men’s #T20WorldCup 2021 🔥 Which clash are you most excited by? 👀 — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) August 17, 2021 × T20 World Cup 2021 Super 12 schedule. pic.twitter.com/pIqEpHpqsa — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 17, 2021 × The tournament is hosted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and it was supposed to take place in Australia at the end of 2020 but was called off as the coronavirus pandemic swept across the globe. India was looking forward to hosting it but due to a dominance of COVID-19 cases in the country, it was moved to the United Arab Emirates and Oman. As per the ICC's site: "The tournament will begin with the Round 1 Group B encounter between hosts Oman and Papua New Guinea at 2pm local time on 17 October, with Scotland and Bangladesh, the other teams in Group B, clashing in the evening match at 6pm." "Ireland, Netherlands, Sri Lanka and Namibia - making up Group A - will be in action in Abu Dhabi the next day, with Round 1 matches running till 22 October. The top two teams in each group will proceed to the Super12 stage of the tournament, beginning on 23 October." Super12 "The second round of the tournament – the Super12 stage – will get underway in Abu Dhabi on 23 October, with the Group 1 contest between Australia and South Africa. This will be followed up with an evening clash between England and West Indies in Dubai." "Old rivals England and Australia will lock horns in Dubai on 30 October. The group will conclude on 6 November with matches between Australia and West Indies in Abu Dhabi, and England and South Africa in Sharjah."

T20 World Cup: India to begin campaign against Pakistan as ICC announces tournament schedule

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool, however, the former cricketer has predicted the arch-rivals will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India.&nbsp;

While speaking to a media house, Akhtar said, "I have a feeling Pakistan and India will play in the T20 World Cup final and India will lose to Pakistan. Conditions in UAE will favour both India and Pakistan."

Pakistan team has never defeated India in World Cup matches as the Indian team boast a stunning 11-0 record. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, however, they have faced each other in ICC tournaments. Despite the ban, India vs Pakistan is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the cricket world. Particularly this year, as both the teams will contest to get the trophy for a second time.

Previously, India was supposed to host the T20 World Cup but owing to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the entire event has been shifted to UAE.&nbsp;

'Today's batmen are fortunate...'

Recently, Akhtar commented that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."&nbsp;

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman.

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool, however, the former cricketer has predicted the arch-rivals will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India. While speaking to a media house, Akhtar said, "I have a feeling Pakistan and India will play in the T20 World Cup final and India will lose to Pakistan. Conditions in UAE will favour both India and Pakistan." Pakistan team has never defeated India in World Cup matches as the Indian team boast a stunning 11-0 record. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, however, they have faced each other in ICC tournaments. Despite the ban, India vs Pakistan is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the cricket world. Particularly this year, as both the teams will contest to get the trophy for a second time. Previously, India was supposed to host the T20 World Cup but owing to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the entire event has been shifted to UAE. 'Today's batmen are fortunate...' Recently, Akhtar commented that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."

Shoaib Akhtar predicts winner of T20 World Cup, says 'India will lose to Pakistan'

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."&nbsp;

Speaking further, the Rawalpindi Express also pointed on the viewership and highlighted the issue of a dip in viewership. There are some instances when the viewership is high for some big matches but the trend is inconsistent. Akhtar also tried to establish the reason saying that "characters of the game have gone".&nbsp;

"The viewership of the game has not increased but it has come down because the characters of the game have gone. People are saying there's more viewership, but how is there more viewership? There's no viewership for Test matches. 600 million might have watched the Champions Trophy match, but that was a one-off," he said.&nbsp;

Akhtar on Sachin vs Virat debate

Akhtar weighed in on the highly debated topic in the cricketing world, which is, who is better — Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli? While commenting on the same, Akhtar said, "Give Sachin Tendulkar credit and stop comparing him to Virat Kohli." Shoaib Akhtar, who played against the Master Blaster on many occasions said, "He [Virat] did not play the era of Sachin Tendulkar, which is like the single era of 50 overs, and then the reverse swing starts literally after 10 overs. Face that with Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and the spin of Shane Warne".&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar said that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened." Speaking further, the Rawalpindi Express also pointed on the viewership and highlighted the issue of a dip in viewership. There are some instances when the viewership is high for some big matches but the trend is inconsistent. Akhtar also tried to establish the reason saying that "characters of the game have gone". "The viewership of the game has not increased but it has come down because the characters of the game have gone. People are saying there's more viewership, but how is there more viewership? There's no viewership for Test matches. 600 million might have watched the Champions Trophy match, but that was a one-off," he said. Akhtar on Sachin vs Virat debate Akhtar weighed in on the highly debated topic in the cricketing world, which is, who is better — Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli? While commenting on the same, Akhtar said, "Give Sachin Tendulkar credit and stop comparing him to Virat Kohli." Shoaib Akhtar, who played against the Master Blaster on many occasions said, "He [Virat] did not play the era of Sachin Tendulkar, which is like the single era of 50 overs, and then the reverse swing starts literally after 10 overs. Face that with Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and the spin of Shane Warne".

Shoaib Akhtar: 'Today's batmen fortunate as they haven't faced Warne, Akram, Younis and me'

Fans are in for a treat as arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been placed in the Group 2 of the Super 12 stage of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The highly-anticipated tournament will take place from October 17 to November 14 this year, the ICC announced on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-fear-for-the-100-the-indian-test-series-michael-vaughan-reacts-after-rishabh-pant-tests-positive-for-covid-19-398304" hreflang="en">'I fear for the 100 &amp; the Indian Test series': Michael Vaughan reacts after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19</a>

The Men in Blue are in the group alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other qualifiers from Round 1.&nbsp;

Group 1 will consist of defending champions West Indies along with Australia, England and South Africa and two other qualifiers.&nbsp;

"The groups , selected on the basis of team rankings as of 20 March 2021, see defending champions the West Indies pooled along with former champions England , Australia and South Africa in Group 1 of the Super 12s , with two qualifiers from Round 1 joining them ," the ICC said in a statement.

"Group 2 will comprise former champions India and Pakistan, New Zealand , Afghanistan and the other two qualifiers from Round 1. Eight teams will contest the first round including automatic qualifiers Sri Lanka and Bangladesh with the remaining six who booked their spot through the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Ireland , Netherlands and Namibia join Sri Lanka in Group A , whilst Oman , PNG and Scotland will face Bangladesh in Group B."

"We are delighted to announce the groups for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021. There are some great match ups offered by the groups and it starts to bring the event to life for our fans as our first multi-team event since the onset of the global pandemic draws closer ," ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said.

"Given the disruption caused by Covid-19 , we selected the cutoff date as close as possible to the event to ensure we were able to include the maximum amount of cricket in the rankings which determine the groups. There is no doubt we will witness some highly competitive cricket when the event gets underway in just three months."

<h2>Round 1</h2>

Group A: Sri Lanka, Ireland, the Netherlands and Namibia

Group B: Bangladesh, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and Oman

<h2>Super 12s</h2>

Group 1: England, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, A1 and B2.

Group 2: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan, A2 and B1.

Fans are in for a treat as arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been placed in the Group 2 of the Super 12 stage of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The highly-anticipated tournament will take place from October 17 to November 14 this year, the ICC announced on Friday.

Fans are in for a treat as arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been placed in the Group 2 of the Super 12 stage of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021. The highly-anticipated tournament will take place from October 17 to November 14 this year, the ICC announced on Friday. ALSO READ: 'I fear for the 100 & the Indian Test series': Michael Vaughan reacts after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19 The Men in Blue are in the group alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other qualifiers from Round 1. Group 1 will consist of defending champions West Indies along with Australia, England and South Africa and two other qualifiers. "The groups , selected on the basis of team rankings as of 20 March 2021, see defending champions the West Indies pooled along with former champions England , Australia and South Africa in Group 1 of the Super 12s , with two qualifiers from Round 1 joining them ," the ICC said in a statement. "Group 2 will comprise former champions India and Pakistan, New Zealand , Afghanistan and the other two qualifiers from Round 1. Eight teams will contest the first round including automatic qualifiers Sri Lanka and Bangladesh with the remaining six who booked their spot through the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Ireland , Netherlands and Namibia join Sri Lanka in Group A , whilst Oman , PNG and Scotland will face Bangladesh in Group B." "We are delighted to announce the groups for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021. There are some great match ups offered by the groups and it starts to bring the event to life for our fans as our first multi-team event since the onset of the global pandemic draws closer ," ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said. "Given the disruption caused by Covid-19 , we selected the cutoff date as close as possible to the event to ensure we were able to include the maximum amount of cricket in the rankings which determine the groups. There is no doubt we will witness some highly competitive cricket when the event gets underway in just three months." Round 1 Group A: Sri Lanka, Ireland, the Netherlands and Namibia Group B: Bangladesh, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and Oman Super 12s Group 1: England, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, A1 and B2. Group 2: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan, A2 and B1.

Cricket: India and Pakistan set to clash in Super 12 stage of ICC T20 World Cup

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-Ul-Haq has said that India vs Pakistan matches have more following than The Ashes. He urged that a bilateral series between India and Pakistan is important.&nbsp;

"India-Pakistan series was followed much more than The Ashes and people thoroughly enjoyed each and every moment. For the betterment of the game and the players, it is important to have the Asia Cup and also bilateral series between India and Pakistan," Inzamam told Sportstar in an interview.

"Each and every competition is important. In our times, the Asia Cup was a tournament where the top teams would compete. The more you play high quality cricket, you develop your skills. For instance, if India were playing Pakistan, the players would be excited to put in their best efforts because they know the importance and intensity of these matches. That not only helps a player grow, but also helps him earn appreciation from the fans. I think it is important to have these tournaments."

Inzamam featured in several India vs Pakistan encounters between the 1990s and the early 2000s. He revealed his feelings about being a part of India vs Pakistan match.&nbsp;

"When we would play against each other, it was a great feeling. In those bilateral series, it was also an opportunity for the young cricketers to learn a thing or two from the senior players. Be it a Sachin Tendulkar or a Sourav Ganguly or Mohammad Azharuddin or Javed Miandad, the youngsters could just walk up to them and pick their brains. That was a fantastic opportunity to improve one’s game," the former Pakistan captain said.

"The on-field rivalry was intense, but at the end of the day, players respected each other and shared a camaraderie. Meri toh bari khwayaish hain ke yeh cheez dobara shuru ho jayein (I wish this [India-Pakistan series] resumes)."

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-Ul-Haq has said that India vs Pakistan matches have more following than The Ashes. He urged that a bilateral series between India and Pakistan is important.

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-Ul-Haq has said that India vs Pakistan matches have more following than The Ashes. He urged that a bilateral series between India and Pakistan is important. "India-Pakistan series was followed much more than The Ashes and people thoroughly enjoyed each and every moment. For the betterment of the game and the players, it is important to have the Asia Cup and also bilateral series between India and Pakistan," Inzamam told Sportstar in an interview. "Each and every competition is important. In our times, the Asia Cup was a tournament where the top teams would compete. The more you play high quality cricket, you develop your skills. For instance, if India were playing Pakistan, the players would be excited to put in their best efforts because they know the importance and intensity of these matches. That not only helps a player grow, but also helps him earn appreciation from the fans. I think it is important to have these tournaments." Inzamam featured in several India vs Pakistan encounters between the 1990s and the early 2000s. He revealed his feelings about being a part of India vs Pakistan match. "When we would play against each other, it was a great feeling. In those bilateral series, it was also an opportunity for the young cricketers to learn a thing or two from the senior players. Be it a Sachin Tendulkar or a Sourav Ganguly or Mohammad Azharuddin or Javed Miandad, the youngsters could just walk up to them and pick their brains. That was a fantastic opportunity to improve one’s game," the former Pakistan captain said. "The on-field rivalry was intense, but at the end of the day, players respected each other and shared a camaraderie. Meri toh bari khwayaish hain ke yeh cheez dobara shuru ho jayein (I wish this [India-Pakistan series] resumes)."

Cricket- 'India-Pakistan series was followed much more than Ashes': Inzamam-Ul-Haq

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-eight-groundsmen-at-wankhede-test-positive-for-covid-19-375116" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19</a>

"Shoaib Akhtar told me the night before the match that he wants some tickets for his family and relatives from Pakistan. So I said no problem, and I called PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) and somehow arranged some four tickets for him. When I went to give them to him, he said 'It will be great if you can arrange four tickets for the final as well,” Harbhajan said in an interview with Sports Today.

"I asked what he would do with them. He asserted that they (Pakistan) were going to play the final in Mumbai. I replied 'If you are going to Mumbai, then where are we going? India will play the final, and you should come and watch. I will give you four more tickets as well, no problem, you come and comfortably spectate the game.'"

India went on to lift the World Cup in 2011 after MS Dhoni hit a six off Nuwan Kulasekera's delivery to end the 28-year wait. India became the first country to win the tournament at home.&nbsp;

Former Indian spin wizard recalled the finals of the 2011 World Cup and called it the most important day of his life.&nbsp;

"Unbelievable, 2nd of April, that day was the most important day I would say of my career, of my life. I was watching my dreams come true, the way the love was flowing, everyone had a smile on their face and was swaying with happiness. It was not just our win, it was India's win," the veteran spinner said in a video posted by his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh recalled a moment before India vs Pakistan semifinals match at World Cup 2011 when Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar asked him to arrange tickets for the semis and finals. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19 "Shoaib Akhtar told me the night before the match that he wants some tickets for his family and relatives from Pakistan. So I said no problem, and I called PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) and somehow arranged some four tickets for him. When I went to give them to him, he said 'It will be great if you can arrange four tickets for the final as well,” Harbhajan said in an interview with Sports Today. "I asked what he would do with them. He asserted that they (Pakistan) were going to play the final in Mumbai. I replied 'If you are going to Mumbai, then where are we going? India will play the final, and you should come and watch. I will give you four more tickets as well, no problem, you come and comfortably spectate the game.'" India went on to lift the World Cup in 2011 after MS Dhoni hit a six off Nuwan Kulasekera's delivery to end the 28-year wait. India became the first country to win the tournament at home. Former Indian spin wizard recalled the finals of the 2011 World Cup and called it the most important day of his life. "Unbelievable, 2nd of April, that day was the most important day I would say of my career, of my life. I was watching my dreams come true, the way the love was flowing, everyone had a smile on their face and was swaying with happiness. It was not just our win, it was India's win," the veteran spinner said in a video posted by his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.

'Come and comfortably spectate': Harbhajan Singh recalls 'ticket' incident with Shoaib Akhtar during WC 2011

Kevin Pietersen on Wednesday said that it would be a dream come true to see India and Pakistan engage both on and off the field as the former England captain replied to a tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi where&nbsp;he wished Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a speedy recovery after contracting COVID-19.&nbsp;

Imran Khan, a former Pakistan captain and now the Prime Minister of Pakistan, had tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday.&nbsp;

Pietersen, while quote retweeting PM Modi's tweet, wrote that that the response by the Indian prime minister made him smile while adding that "we all need each other and this year has shown us that".&nbsp;The former England batsman, who was recently in India for the Road Safety World Series, further said that he hopes a healthy friendship is on its way.&nbsp;

“This tweet by @narendramodi&nbsp;to&nbsp;@ImranKhanPTI&nbsp;made me smile! It would be a dream come true, to see India &amp; Pak reunited and engaging both on &amp; off the field! We all need each other &amp; this year has shown us that!” Pietersen tweeted.&nbsp;

“Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way!”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20i-series-a-possibility-with-a-six-day-window-in-2021-report-372785" hreflang="en">India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This tweet by <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> made me smile! 
It would be a dream come true, to see India &amp; Pak reunited and engaging both on &amp; off the field! 
We all need each other &amp; this year has shown us that! 
 
Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way! 
 
🙏🏽 <a href="https://t.co/jECZLQCDlI">https://t.co/jECZLQCDlI</a>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1374729147109507074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier on March 20, PM Modi had wished Imran Khan a speedy recovery from COVID-19.&nbsp;

“Best wishes to Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI for a speedy recovery from COVID-19,” PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notably, Pakistan PM Khan had taken his first COVID-19 jab on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-out-of-england-odis-likely-to-miss-entire-ipl-2021-372840" hreflang="en">Shreyas Iyer out of England ODIs, likely to miss entire IPL 2021</a>

Meanwhile, there have been reports in Pakistan media that there have been talks on resuming bilateral cricket ties between the&nbsp;two countries and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been told to be prepared for a bilateral&nbsp;series later this year. A six-day window could be opened up for a short T20I series in 2021, according to a report in Jang.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012/13.&nbsp;

Kevin Pietersen on Wednesday said that it would be a dream come true to see India and Pakistan engage both on and off the field as the former England captain replied to a tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi where he wished Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a speedy recovery after contracting COVID-19.

Kevin Pietersen on Wednesday said that it would be a dream come true to see India and Pakistan engage both on and off the field as the former England captain replied to a tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi where he wished Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a speedy recovery after contracting COVID-19. Imran Khan, a former Pakistan captain and now the Prime Minister of Pakistan, had tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. Pietersen, while quote retweeting PM Modi's tweet, wrote that that the response by the Indian prime minister made him smile while adding that "we all need each other and this year has shown us that". The former England batsman, who was recently in India for the Road Safety World Series, further said that he hopes a healthy friendship is on its way. “This tweet by @narendramodi to @ImranKhanPTI made me smile! It would be a dream come true, to see India & Pak reunited and engaging both on & off the field! We all need each other & this year has shown us that!” Pietersen tweeted. “Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way!” ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report This tweet by @narendramodi to @ImranKhanPTI made me smile! It would be a dream come true, to see India & Pak reunited and engaging both on & off the field! We all need each other & this year has shown us that! Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way! 🙏🏽 https://t.co/jECZLQCDlI — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) March 24, 2021 × Earlier on March 20, PM Modi had wished Imran Khan a speedy recovery from COVID-19. “Best wishes to Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI for a speedy recovery from COVID-19,” PM Modi tweeted. Notably, Pakistan PM Khan had taken his first COVID-19 jab on Thursday. ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer out of England ODIs, likely to miss entire IPL 2021 Meanwhile, there have been reports in Pakistan media that there have been talks on resuming bilateral cricket ties between the two countries and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been told to be prepared for a bilateral series later this year. A six-day window could be opened up for a short T20I series in 2021, according to a report in Jang. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012/13.

'Would be a dream come true': Kevin Pietersen replies to PM Modi, backs resumption of India vs Pakistan series

Bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan might soon resume between the two arch-rivals, a media report has said. The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan&nbsp;was held in 2012-13 but since then the political relations between the two countries have deteriorated resulting in a complete halt of one-on-one series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A&nbsp;report in Pakistan newspaper 'Jang'&nbsp;has said that India and Pakistan might soon get involved in bilateral cricket series again with a possibility of the six-day window for a three-match T20I series later in the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The hectic cricket calendar including the ongoing FTP suggests that the bilateral series is not possible&nbsp;but the report said that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been asked to be prepared in case talks&nbsp;materialise&nbsp;in future.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-odi-bcci-gives-update-on-rohit-sharma-and-shreyas-iyers-injury-372582" hreflang="en">1st ODI: BCCI gives update on Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer's injury</a>

A PCB official, according to the report, initially denied the speculations as he said that there&nbsp;are&nbsp;no talks between PCB and the BCCI,&nbsp;but hinted that there is a possibility about a series later in the year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani on Tuesday said that no one has contacted the board while denying that the Pakistan board is in talks with the Indian board.&nbsp;

PCB sources have said that if the series goes ahead then it will be the Indian team that will visit Pakistan as Pakistan had toured India the last&nbsp;time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

Notably, since the bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan stopped, the two countries have competed in&nbsp;only&nbsp;ICC events and Asia Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the ICC meeting is to be held soon wherein the Indian board has to inform the ICC about the progress made on visas and security arrangements for Pakistan players, journalists and spectators in the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India later this year.&nbsp;

Bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan might soon resume between the two arch-rivals, a media report has said. The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan was held in 2012-13 but since then the political relations between the two countries have deteriorated resulting in a complete halt of one-on-one series.

Bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan might soon resume between the two arch-rivals, a media report has said. The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan was held in 2012-13 but since then the political relations between the two countries have deteriorated resulting in a complete halt of one-on-one series. A report in Pakistan newspaper 'Jang' has said that India and Pakistan might soon get involved in bilateral cricket series again with a possibility of the six-day window for a three-match T20I series later in the year. The hectic cricket calendar including the ongoing FTP suggests that the bilateral series is not possible but the report said that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been asked to be prepared in case talks materialise in future. ALSO READ: 1st ODI: BCCI gives update on Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer's injury A PCB official, according to the report, initially denied the speculations as he said that there are no talks between PCB and the BCCI, but hinted that there is a possibility about a series later in the year. Meanwhile, PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani on Tuesday said that no one has contacted the board while denying that the Pakistan board is in talks with the Indian board. PCB sources have said that if the series goes ahead then it will be the Indian team that will visit Pakistan as Pakistan had toured India the last time. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Notably, since the bilateral cricket relations between India and Pakistan stopped, the two countries have competed in only ICC events and Asia Cup. Meanwhile, the ICC meeting is to be held soon wherein the Indian board has to inform the ICC about the progress made on visas and security arrangements for Pakistan players, journalists and spectators in the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India later this year.

India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report

Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja urged that a match between India and Pakistan should be played in the next cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. The Asian arch-rivals did not face each other due to on-going tensions between the two.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-paceman-jofra-archer-likely-to-miss-odi-series-and-ipl-due-to-injury-372083" hreflang="en">English paceman Jofra Archer likely to miss ODI series and IPL due to injury</a>

Raja criticised the format of on-going WTC calling it lopsided and prolonged. While speaking on YouTube Channel Cricket Bazz, he said: “The current format was lopsided and prolonged and it made no sense not having India and Pakistan series. Teams didn’t play the same number of matches and even the points system was weird. There should have been a 3-month window and everyone should have played against each other.”

“Next time when the WTC is held no cricket should be held at that time if you want to promote Test cricket and infuse life into it and also attract sponsors to this format. Sponsorship will only come when you will not give sponsors any other option to park their money,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-definitely-like-virat-kohli-on-opening-the-innings-for-team-india-in-future-372079" hreflang="en">'I would definitely like...': Virat Kohli on opening the innings for Team India in future</a>

Virat Kohli's Team India are set to face Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Finals that will be played on June 18 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton.&nbsp;

Team India topped the table after beating England 3-1 at home, whereas, New Zealand came in second.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja urged that a match between India and Pakistan should be played in the next cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. The Asian arch-rivals did not face each other due to on-going tensions between the two.

Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja urged that a match between India and Pakistan should be played in the next cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. The Asian arch-rivals did not face each other due to on-going tensions between the two. ALSO READ: English paceman Jofra Archer likely to miss ODI series and IPL due to injury Raja criticised the format of on-going WTC calling it lopsided and prolonged. While speaking on YouTube Channel Cricket Bazz, he said: “The current format was lopsided and prolonged and it made no sense not having India and Pakistan series. Teams didn’t play the same number of matches and even the points system was weird. There should have been a 3-month window and everyone should have played against each other.” “Next time when the WTC is held no cricket should be held at that time if you want to promote Test cricket and infuse life into it and also attract sponsors to this format. Sponsorship will only come when you will not give sponsors any other option to park their money,” he added. ALSO READ: 'I would definitely like...': Virat Kohli on opening the innings for Team India in future Virat Kohli's Team India are set to face Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship Finals that will be played on June 18 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton. Team India topped the table after beating England 3-1 at home, whereas, New Zealand came in second.

'It made no sense not having India and Pakistan series': Ramiz Raja on WTC

india-vs-pakistan

India Vs Pakistan, News on India Vs Pakistan, stories on India Vs Pakistan, articles on India Vs Pakistan, India Vs Pakistan stories at Wion, India Vs Pakistan news, India Vs Pakistan latest news

india vs-pakistan