Reappointed Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Babar Azam made a bold claim on who he thinks can defend 10 runs off a final over between his compatriot Naseem Shah and ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah. While cricket fans worldwide know what cloth Bumrah is cut from, mainly considering death bowling, fans are also aware of Naseem’s exploits across formats and what he brings to the table.

Chatting on a podcast, Babar, who recently replaced Shaheen Shah Afridi as Pakistan’s new ODI and T20I captain, was asked a hypothetical question surrounding the two best bowlers – Naseem and Bumrah. With the question being, if given a choice, who would he pick to bowl the final over if his team is defending 10 runs in the last over, Babar said he would pick Naseem over death-over specialist Bumrah.

"One over, T20 match, you have to win the match, you have two options to defend 10 runs, whom will you give the last over, Naseem Shah or Jasprit Bumrah? The hosts asked the Pakistan skipper, to which Babar replied, “Naseem Shah.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-delhi-capitals-form-worries-coach-ricky-ponting-addresses-it-as-9-game-tournament-709025">IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals’ form worries coach Ricky Ponting, addresses it as ‘9-game tournament’ after MI loss</a>

Without discounting or even mentioning Bumrah’s name, Babar praised Naseem, who recently returned from the shoulder injury he sustained during the Asia Cup last year.

"Firstly, I felt so happy for Naseem, for the way he returned to cricket after injury, the way he recovered," said Babar.&nbsp;

Welcoming Naseem back into the scheme of things, Babar acknowledged his all-round skills, adding Naseem is on the right path, citing Shaheen’s example.

"The number of skills he has, you don’t get a talent like this very often in Pakistan. There are others too, like Shaheen, he has his own class, he is experienced and Naseem is on Shaheen’s path," Azam added.

<h2>Bumrah shines in IPL; Naseem trains for NZ series</h2>

Bumrah has been making headlines since his emergence on the IPL stage around a decade ago, bowling toe-crushing Yorkers. His recent exploits against SunRisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals kept everyone talking.&nbsp;

The right-arm seamer has been an ace bowler for every team he’s played for and holds strong credentials of being a top-notch bowler at any stage in the game.

On the other&nbsp;side, Pakistan’s Naseem Shah is training in Kakul with the rest of the squad, preparing for the home five-match T20Is against New Zealand, starting April 18.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will face off at this year’s T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean, with their game scheduled for June 9 in New York.&nbsp;

Reappointed Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Babar Azam made a bold claim on who he thinks can defend 10 runs off a final over between his compatriot Naseem Shah and ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah.

Reappointed Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Babar Azam made a bold claim on who he thinks can defend 10 runs off a final over between his compatriot Naseem Shah and ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah. While cricket fans worldwide know what cloth Bumrah is cut from, mainly considering death bowling, fans are also aware of Naseem’s exploits across formats and what he brings to the table. Chatting on a podcast, Babar, who recently replaced Shaheen Shah Afridi as Pakistan’s new ODI and T20I captain, was asked a hypothetical question surrounding the two best bowlers – Naseem and Bumrah. With the question being, if given a choice, who would he pick to bowl the final over if his team is defending 10 runs in the last over, Babar said he would pick Naseem over death-over specialist Bumrah. "One over, T20 match, you have to win the match, you have two options to defend 10 runs, whom will you give the last over, Naseem Shah or Jasprit Bumrah? The hosts asked the Pakistan skipper, to which Babar replied, “Naseem Shah.” ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals’ form worries coach Ricky Ponting, addresses it as ‘9-game tournament’ after MI loss Without discounting or even mentioning Bumrah’s name, Babar praised Naseem, who recently returned from the shoulder injury he sustained during the Asia Cup last year. "Firstly, I felt so happy for Naseem, for the way he returned to cricket after injury, the way he recovered," said Babar. Welcoming Naseem back into the scheme of things, Babar acknowledged his all-round skills, adding Naseem is on the right path, citing Shaheen’s example. "The number of skills he has, you don’t get a talent like this very often in Pakistan. There are others too, like Shaheen, he has his own class, he is experienced and Naseem is on Shaheen’s path," Azam added. Bumrah shines in IPL; Naseem trains for NZ series Bumrah has been making headlines since his emergence on the IPL stage around a decade ago, bowling toe-crushing Yorkers. His recent exploits against SunRisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals kept everyone talking. The right-arm seamer has been an ace bowler for every team he’s played for and holds strong credentials of being a top-notch bowler at any stage in the game. On the other side, Pakistan’s Naseem Shah is training in Kakul with the rest of the squad, preparing for the home five-match T20Is against New Zealand, starting April 18. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will face off at this year’s T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean, with their game scheduled for June 9 in New York.

Naseem Shah over Jasprit Bumrah – Babar Azam makes bold claim on best death bowler

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Tuesday (Mar 26) released the full schedule for the Women's Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, from&nbsp;July 19th to July 28th, 2024.

Defending champions India have been drawn in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE and Nepal.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Group B will comprise the likes of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Thailand.&nbsp;

The Indian team will start their campaign against the UAE on July 19 before squaring off against Pakistan on July 21. The league stage for the Women-in-Blue will come to an end against Himalayan neighbours Nepal on July 23.&nbsp;

<h2>Changes in the tournament&nbsp;</h2>

This is the first instance that the Asia Cup will feature eight teams. The marquee tournament will also feature all female referees and umpires&nbsp;after a similar successful implementation during the previous edition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The increased participation promises to make this tournament even more competitive and thrilling for cricket fans across the region,"&nbsp;the ACC said in a statement.

"In line with the ACC's vision for inclusivity and equality in cricket, the Women's Asia Cup 2024 will continue the tradition of having all female referees and umpires, following the successful implementation of the same in the previous edition," it added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/finally-ee-sala-cup-namdu-heres-how-social-media-reacted-to-rcbs-maiden-wpl-title-win-701246">Also read |&nbsp;‘Finally Ee Sala Cup Namdu’- Here’s how social media reacted to RCB’s maiden WPL title win</a>

India, the seven-time champions, will be the favourites to win the tournament ahead of the highly-anticipated T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in September-October in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Here’s the full schedule of ACC Women’s Asia Cup 2024:

July 19, Friday: Pakistan vs Nepal; India vs UAE

July 20, Saturday: Malaysia vs Thailand; Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh

July 21, Sunday: Nepal vs UAE; India vs Pakistan

July 22, Monday: Sri Lanka vs Malaysia; Bangladesh vs Thailand

July 23, Tuesday: Pakistan vs UAE; India vs Nepal

July 24, Wednesday: Bangladesh vs Malaysia; Sri Lanka vs Thailand

July 26, Friday: SF1 (Group A 1st) vs (Group B 2nd)&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;SF2 (Group B 1st) vs (Group A 2nd)

July 28, Sunday: FINALS

(With inputs from agencies)

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Tuesday (Mar 26) released the full schedule for the Women's Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, from July 19th to July 28th, 2024.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Tuesday (Mar 26) released the full schedule for the Women's Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, from July 19th to July 28th, 2024. Defending champions India have been drawn in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE and Nepal. Meanwhile, Group B will comprise the likes of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Thailand. The Indian team will start their campaign against the UAE on July 19 before squaring off against Pakistan on July 21. The league stage for the Women-in-Blue will come to an end against Himalayan neighbours Nepal on July 23. Changes in the tournament This is the first instance that the Asia Cup will feature eight teams. The marquee tournament will also feature all female referees and umpires after a similar successful implementation during the previous edition. "The increased participation promises to make this tournament even more competitive and thrilling for cricket fans across the region," the ACC said in a statement. "In line with the ACC's vision for inclusivity and equality in cricket, the Women's Asia Cup 2024 will continue the tradition of having all female referees and umpires, following the successful implementation of the same in the previous edition," it added. Also read | ‘Finally Ee Sala Cup Namdu’- Here’s how social media reacted to RCB’s maiden WPL title win India, the seven-time champions, will be the favourites to win the tournament ahead of the highly-anticipated T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in September-October in Bangladesh. Here’s the full schedule of ACC Women’s Asia Cup 2024: July 19, Friday: Pakistan vs Nepal; India vs UAE July 20, Saturday: Malaysia vs Thailand; Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh July 21, Sunday: Nepal vs UAE; India vs Pakistan July 22, Monday: Sri Lanka vs Malaysia; Bangladesh vs Thailand July 23, Tuesday: Pakistan vs UAE; India vs Nepal July 24, Wednesday: Bangladesh vs Malaysia; Sri Lanka vs Thailand July 26, Friday: SF1 (Group A 1st) vs (Group B 2nd) SF2 (Group B 1st) vs (Group A 2nd) July 28, Sunday: FINALS (With inputs from agencies)

Women's Asia Cup cricket 2024 full schedule announced, India to face Pakistan on July 21

Cricket Australia (CA) has reiterated its desire to hold a bilateral series between India and Pakistan if the countries agree. CA chief executive Nick Hockley made the comments after releasing the summer schedule for Australia during which they host India and Pakistan in separate series. While Pakistan will be in Australia for a T20I and ODI series of three-match each, India will be starting their five-Test tour four days after the Pakistan series on November 22.

"We're so excited to host Pakistan. We're so excited to host India. If we can help, that's great. But I think in many ways, that's a bilateral series. It's really for others to make that happen," said Hockley.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-asia-cup-2024-full-schedule-announced-india-to-face-pakistan-on-july-21-704504">Women's Asia Cup 2024 full schedule announced, India to face Pakistan on July 21</a>

This is not the first time CA has expressed the desire to serve as a neutral venue to host India and Pakistan in a bilateral series. It first made such a statement after the blockbuster 2022 T20 World Cup match between the Asian countries at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Over 90,000 people attended that match which saw India win in a thrilling manner.

"I think anyone that was here for the India-Pakistan game at the MCG, it will go down as one of the most memorable occasions, not just sporting occasions, that I've ever been to," Hockley said. "So people want to see that contest. We would love to host that if the opportunity arose. If we can play a role, we'd love to play a role."

CA's head of scheduling, Peter Roach also shared the same views but acknowledged that there's no room for such a series as of now.

"We haven't got a tri-series in the FTP," Roach said. "Going forward we're always interested in opportunities for matches and contests that will engage our fans. It's fair to say every country in the world would love to see India and Pakistan compete in their country."

Notably, India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since 2012-13 due to political tensions between the two countries and currently see each other only in the ICC tournaments.

Cricket Australia (CA) has reiterated its desire to hold a bilateral series between India and Pakistan if the countries agree. CA chief executive Nick Hockley made the comments after releasing the summer schedule for Australia during which they host India and Pakistan in separate series.

Cricket Australia (CA) has reiterated its desire to hold a bilateral series between India and Pakistan if the countries agree. CA chief executive Nick Hockley made the comments after releasing the summer schedule for Australia during which they host India and Pakistan in separate series. While Pakistan will be in Australia for a T20I and ODI series of three-match each, India will be starting their five-Test tour four days after the Pakistan series on November 22. "We're so excited to host Pakistan. We're so excited to host India. If we can help, that's great. But I think in many ways, that's a bilateral series. It's really for others to make that happen," said Hockley. Also Read: Women's Asia Cup 2024 full schedule announced, India to face Pakistan on July 21 This is not the first time CA has expressed the desire to serve as a neutral venue to host India and Pakistan in a bilateral series. It first made such a statement after the blockbuster 2022 T20 World Cup match between the Asian countries at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Over 90,000 people attended that match which saw India win in a thrilling manner. "I think anyone that was here for the India-Pakistan game at the MCG, it will go down as one of the most memorable occasions, not just sporting occasions, that I've ever been to," Hockley said. "So people want to see that contest. We would love to host that if the opportunity arose. If we can play a role, we'd love to play a role." CA's head of scheduling, Peter Roach also shared the same views but acknowledged that there's no room for such a series as of now. "We haven't got a tri-series in the FTP," Roach said. "Going forward we're always interested in opportunities for matches and contests that will engage our fans. It's fair to say every country in the world would love to see India and Pakistan compete in their country." Notably, India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since 2012-13 due to political tensions between the two countries and currently see each other only in the ICC tournaments.

Cricket Australia reiterates desire to host India vs Pakistan bilateral series

With the ICC T20 World Cup less than three months away, the price for the tickets have skyrocketed, especially for the mouth-watering India vs Pakistan contest. Although the World Cup is taking place in the United States of America (USA) - a non-traditional cricketing nation, the prices continue to remain at an all-time high.&nbsp;

According to a report in USA Today, tickets to two of India's matches involving Pakistan and Canada had been sold out as soon as they were released. However, the same tickets were now being sold on secondary platforms (resale websites) at&nbsp;exorbitantly high prices.&nbsp;

The official tickets&nbsp;for the&nbsp;India-Pakistan match were priced at&nbsp;$6 (Rs 497) with the most expensive ticket for the premium seats costing around&nbsp;$400 (Rs 33,148) without taxes. The ICC had specified at the time that "no&nbsp;additional fees will be imposed beyond the specified taxes".

However,&nbsp;on&nbsp;StubHub and SeatGeek, the same&nbsp;$400 ticket was now available for&nbsp;$40,000 (around Rs 33 Lakh)&nbsp;and if the platform fee was added, the amount zooted up to&nbsp;$50,000 (around Rs 41 Lakh).

On SeatGeek, the lowest-priced&nbsp;tickets started at $1,198 (Rs 99,305) and went up to&nbsp; $179,500 (Rs 1.48 crore). Adding the platform fees, the eventual price of the tickets came out to around $222,500 (Rs 1.8 crores).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohlis-82-in-t20-world-cup-will-linger-in-minds-of-pakistan-players-feels-kaif-ahead-of-asia-cup-clash-630586">Also read |&nbsp;Kohli's 82* in T20 World Cup will linger in minds of Pakistan players</a>

<h2>Outrageous pricing&nbsp;</h2>

To understand how outrageous the ticket prices are, one could have got a World Series ticket at around $1,100 last year while&nbsp;courtside seats for the NBA finals were going for as much as $24,000. The average price for a ticket to&nbsp;Super Bowl LVIII which the Kansas&nbsp;City Chiefs won last month came around $9,000 on the secondary market.

India and Pakistan will resume their World Cup rivalry on June 9 in New York. While India has won seven&nbsp;matches out of eight in the T20 World Cups, Pakistan's only win over their neighbours came during the 2021 edition when Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steamrolled their opponents in Dubai by 10 wickets.

India quickly avenged the loss in the subsequent edition where Virat Kohli's masterful innings took India to victory in front of a 90,000+ crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium (MCG) in Australia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With the ICC T20 World Cup less than three months away, the price for the tickets have skyrocketed, especially for the mouth-watering India vs Pakistan contest. Although the World Cup is taking place in the United States of America (USA) - a non-traditional cricketing nation, the prices continue to remain at an all-time high.

With the ICC T20 World Cup less than three months away, the price for the tickets have skyrocketed, especially for the mouth-watering India vs Pakistan contest. Although the World Cup is taking place in the United States of America (USA) - a non-traditional cricketing nation, the prices continue to remain at an all-time high. According to a report in USA Today, tickets to two of India's matches involving Pakistan and Canada had been sold out as soon as they were released. However, the same tickets were now being sold on secondary platforms (resale websites) at exorbitantly high prices. The official tickets for the India-Pakistan match were priced at $6 (Rs 497) with the most expensive ticket for the premium seats costing around $400 (Rs 33,148) without taxes. The ICC had specified at the time that "no additional fees will be imposed beyond the specified taxes". However, on StubHub and SeatGeek, the same $400 ticket was now available for $40,000 (around Rs 33 Lakh) and if the platform fee was added, the amount zooted up to $50,000 (around Rs 41 Lakh). On SeatGeek, the lowest-priced tickets started at $1,198 (Rs 99,305) and went up to $179,500 (Rs 1.48 crore). Adding the platform fees, the eventual price of the tickets came out to around $222,500 (Rs 1.8 crores). Also read | Kohli's 82* in T20 World Cup will linger in minds of Pakistan players Outrageous pricing To understand how outrageous the ticket prices are, one could have got a World Series ticket at around $1,100 last year while courtside seats for the NBA finals were going for as much as $24,000. The average price for a ticket to Super Bowl LVIII which the Kansas City Chiefs won last month came around $9,000 on the secondary market. India and Pakistan will resume their World Cup rivalry on June 9 in New York. While India has won seven matches out of eight in the T20 World Cups, Pakistan's only win over their neighbours came during the 2021 edition when Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steamrolled their opponents in Dubai by 10 wickets. India quickly avenged the loss in the subsequent edition where Virat Kohli's masterful innings took India to victory in front of a 90,000+ crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium (MCG) in Australia. (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup 2024: Tickets for India vs Pakistan match in USA selling for $222,500

"Universe Boss" Chris Gayle feels the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition will help in the game's expansion in the United States of America. The mega event will take place in the USA and West Indies, which gets underway on June 1. The T20I great mentioned the significance&nbsp;of the T20 WC&nbsp;in bringing cricket to a global audience, especially within the United States. Further, he elaborated his stance by&nbsp;highlighting&nbsp;the success of a T20 tournament held in the USA in 2023, indicating a growing interest and market for the game&nbsp;in the country.

Speaking to AFP in an interview, from Barbados, Gayle said, "The ICC (International Cricket Council) has been trying to get cricket on a global scale within the USA." The West Indies batter added that the game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, to be held in New York on June 9, will help generating maximum eyeballs and spreading the game's popularity in USA."

"India v Pakistan is in New York, I'm sure it's going to be phenomenal. They (the USA) had a T20 tournament last year and it was a success. It's a big market, we just have to hope it will be a success within the United States," Gayle further opined.

The Indo-Pak encounter is a much-awaited match among&nbsp;cricket fans in the USA. It will help in popularising the game in the country and is expected to be a sellout.&nbsp; Both India and Pakistan are in Group A, along with Ireland, USA and Canada.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/steve-smith-isnt-sure-of-a-place-in-australia-squad-for-upcoming-t20-world-cup-694777">Steve Smith 'isn't sure of a place' in Australia squad for upcoming T20 World Cup</a>

Gayle also spoke at length on the chances of his national side. West Indies, the&nbsp;two-time winners, are in Group C along with&nbsp;New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda and Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

"We missed out on the 50-over World Cup (in 2023) so this will be something fantastic for the guys to actually play for something. We just want to be in the (June 29) final here in Barbados. Anything is possible when you make it to the final."

"I'm excited for the people, to actually see a bit of cricket," added Gayle, who was the first batter to hit a T20I century during the opening game of the inaugural T20 WC in 2007.

"Universe Boss" Chris Gayle feels the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition will help in the game's expansion in the United States of America. The mega event will take place in the USA and West Indies, which gets underway on June 1.

"Universe Boss" Chris Gayle feels the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition will help in the game's expansion in the United States of America. The mega event will take place in the USA and West Indies, which gets underway on June 1. The T20I great mentioned the significance of the T20 WC in bringing cricket to a global audience, especially within the United States. Further, he elaborated his stance by highlighting the success of a T20 tournament held in the USA in 2023, indicating a growing interest and market for the game in the country. Speaking to AFP in an interview, from Barbados, Gayle said, "The ICC (International Cricket Council) has been trying to get cricket on a global scale within the USA." The West Indies batter added that the game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, to be held in New York on June 9, will help generating maximum eyeballs and spreading the game's popularity in USA." "India v Pakistan is in New York, I'm sure it's going to be phenomenal. They (the USA) had a T20 tournament last year and it was a success. It's a big market, we just have to hope it will be a success within the United States," Gayle further opined. The Indo-Pak encounter is a much-awaited match among cricket fans in the USA. It will help in popularising the game in the country and is expected to be a sellout. Both India and Pakistan are in Group A, along with Ireland, USA and Canada. Also read: Steve Smith 'isn't sure of a place' in Australia squad for upcoming T20 World Cup Gayle also spoke at length on the chances of his national side. West Indies, the two-time winners, are in Group C along with New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda and Papua New Guinea. "We missed out on the 50-over World Cup (in 2023) so this will be something fantastic for the guys to actually play for something. We just want to be in the (June 29) final here in Barbados. Anything is possible when you make it to the final." "I'm excited for the people, to actually see a bit of cricket," added Gayle, who was the first batter to hit a T20I century during the opening game of the inaugural T20 WC in 2007.

Gayle hopes T20 World Cup will help cricket rise in USA, says India vs Pakistan will be 'phenomenal'

India vs Pakistan is the mother of all clashes, and this blockbuster tie getting underway at the 2024 T20 World Cup makes the occasion grander. The organisers of the marquee event in the Caribbean and the USA are elated with the building craze, crediting the migrated audience from Southeast Asia for driving the ticket sales spike for the 20-team tournament.

The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan match, scheduled to take place at the 34,000-seat temporary venue - Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Long Island near New York on June 9, is gaining a lot of attraction among the locals, reflecting the huge demand for this match and cricket in particular in that part of the world.

Although crowds are expected in massive numbers in the Caribbean, given their rich history in T20Is, this will be the first time the USA will host international matches in bulk – 16 in total, including in Lauderhill, South Florida and Grand Prairie Stadium, near Dallas.

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"We had amazing ticket interest. The ballot process showed there's a really big demand," T20 World Cup USA, Inc. chief executive Brett Jones told AFP on Friday.

"India-Pakistan is obviously a game that at every World Cup carries great interest. I think it's really pleasing to see those two countries come to the USA," he added.

<h2>Time for cricket’s growth in the USA</h2>

Given the dense population of Indians and Pakistanis residing in the USA, the stadium going to be jam-packed for the marquee clash would be an understatement.&nbsp;

However, the organisers have a bigger goal to achieve – to bring the Americans to the stadium to watch cricket and to help this sport grow across the USA for its successful relaunch at the Summer Games in Los Angeles 2028. For that, there is a need for curiosity to rise among the native Americans for this sport.

"I think, number one, we want to celebrate those that are already fanatical lovers of cricket. They deserve to see the best players in the world come into their backyard and have that chance," said Jones.

"So, number one, we want to make sure that happens, and they get to feel like they're close to a game they love. Number two, I think it's about spiking curiosity in the game," he added.

"Obviously, there's a great runway to the Olympics in LA in 28 and then on into Brisbane in 2032 for cricket, which again will keep it in the global view and the consciousness of a big country like the US. I think we've got those two things working for us," Jones concluded.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are placed in Group A alongside co-host USA, Canada and Ireland.&nbsp;

The 20-team tournament will begin on June 1 and end on June 29.&nbsp;

India vs Pakistan is the mother of all clashes, and this blockbuster tie getting underway at the 2024 T20 World Cup makes the occasion grander. The organisers of the marquee event in the Caribbean and the USA are elated with the building craze, crediting the migrated audience from Southeast Asia for driving the ticket sales spike for the 20-team tournament.

India vs Pakistan is the mother of all clashes, and this blockbuster tie getting underway at the 2024 T20 World Cup makes the occasion grander. The organisers of the marquee event in the Caribbean and the USA are elated with the building craze, crediting the migrated audience from Southeast Asia for driving the ticket sales spike for the 20-team tournament. The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan match, scheduled to take place at the 34,000-seat temporary venue - Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Long Island near New York on June 9, is gaining a lot of attraction among the locals, reflecting the huge demand for this match and cricket in particular in that part of the world. Although crowds are expected in massive numbers in the Caribbean, given their rich history in T20Is, this will be the first time the USA will host international matches in bulk – 16 in total, including in Lauderhill, South Florida and Grand Prairie Stadium, near Dallas. ALSO READ: David Warner to miss final T20I against New Zealand, likely to be fit for IPL 2024 "We had amazing ticket interest. The ballot process showed there's a really big demand," T20 World Cup USA, Inc. chief executive Brett Jones told AFP on Friday. "India-Pakistan is obviously a game that at every World Cup carries great interest. I think it's really pleasing to see those two countries come to the USA," he added. Time for cricket’s growth in the USA Given the dense population of Indians and Pakistanis residing in the USA, the stadium going to be jam-packed for the marquee clash would be an understatement. However, the organisers have a bigger goal to achieve – to bring the Americans to the stadium to watch cricket and to help this sport grow across the USA for its successful relaunch at the Summer Games in Los Angeles 2028. For that, there is a need for curiosity to rise among the native Americans for this sport. "I think, number one, we want to celebrate those that are already fanatical lovers of cricket. They deserve to see the best players in the world come into their backyard and have that chance," said Jones. "So, number one, we want to make sure that happens, and they get to feel like they're close to a game they love. Number two, I think it's about spiking curiosity in the game," he added. "Obviously, there's a great runway to the Olympics in LA in 28 and then on into Brisbane in 2032 for cricket, which again will keep it in the global view and the consciousness of a big country like the US. I think we've got those two things working for us," Jones concluded. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are placed in Group A alongside co-host USA, Canada and Ireland. The 20-team tournament will begin on June 1 and end on June 29.

India-Pakistan blockbuster tie drives ticket sales spike for 2024 T20 World Cup, say organisers

The Eisenhower Park in New York, the venue for the marquee clash between India and Pakistan (scheduled for June 9), will be ready in three months and will not host any international matches in the lead-up to the 2024 T20 World Cup, starting on June 3 in the Caribbean and the USA. However, on Wednesday, the ICC confirmed the venue will host several warm-up matches before hosting the tournament opener between Sri Lanka and South Africa.

Located 25 miles east of New York City Nassau County (Long Island), Eisenhower Park is among the three venues shortlisted by the ICC in the USA, along with Grand Prairie (Texas) and Broward County (Lauderhill, Florida), which will host a total of 16 group stage matches, including three India games.

Although this venue has never hosted an international cricket game, the ICC’s head of events, Chris Tetley, doesn’t seem to be bothered much. Per the released ICC statement, the testing phase at the said venue will begin on May 13, including hosting practice matches, giving the organisers a fair idea about how the wicket at the first modular stadium in cricket fares.

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"There will be warm-up matches played at the facility (New York) so that we know from a cricket perspective how the venue runs," Tetley said.&nbsp;

"Also, importantly, we will know from an operational perspective how all of the functional teams that will come together to run the stadium need to interact on an event day with people coming through the turnstiles,” he added.

<h2>Ground preparation underway</h2>

Populous - a globally renowned architecture and design firm, has been hired to construct the stadium&nbsp;which will have a seating capacity of 34,000. With trusted hands involved, Tetley provided&nbsp;‘reassurance’ to the governing body, saying there would not be anything to worry about even in case of a last-minute hiccup.

Alongside this, Damian Hough-headed Adelaide Oval Turf Solutions is preparing a set of drop-in pitches and LankTek Group – a USA-based turf-making business, which is known to be preparing fields for the New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Inter Miami CF, has been&nbsp;hired to manufacture the outfield.

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"In addition to testing events that give us a lot of reassurance is the quality of the people involved and the quality of the work that they do day in, day out: from Damian (Hough) on the pitches and the number of pitches he's building, which gives us a bit of flex in case one of the pitches doesn't go as well as we want, we can shift around so that we're not reliant on you know, a no latency solution there.

"LandTek are working hand in glove with Damian on all of the agronomy aspects of the facility. From a cricket perspective, they are the ones that we are most keenly interested in ensuring over the right quality because that's fundamental,” he added.

The Eisenhower Park in New York, the venue for the marquee clash between India and Pakistan (scheduled for June 9), will be ready in three months and will not host any international matches in the lead-up to the 2024 T20 World Cup, starting on June 3 in the Caribbean and the USA.

The Eisenhower Park in New York, the venue for the marquee clash between India and Pakistan (scheduled for June 9), will be ready in three months and will not host any international matches in the lead-up to the 2024 T20 World Cup, starting on June 3 in the Caribbean and the USA. However, on Wednesday, the ICC confirmed the venue will host several warm-up matches before hosting the tournament opener between Sri Lanka and South Africa. Located 25 miles east of New York City Nassau County (Long Island), Eisenhower Park is among the three venues shortlisted by the ICC in the USA, along with Grand Prairie (Texas) and Broward County (Lauderhill, Florida), which will host a total of 16 group stage matches, including three India games. Although this venue has never hosted an international cricket game, the ICC’s head of events, Chris Tetley, doesn’t seem to be bothered much. Per the released ICC statement, the testing phase at the said venue will begin on May 13, including hosting practice matches, giving the organisers a fair idea about how the wicket at the first modular stadium in cricket fares. ALSO READ: IND v AFG: Coach Dravid lauds Rohit for doing 'Ashwin-like swap' in double super-over thriller in 3rd T20I "There will be warm-up matches played at the facility (New York) so that we know from a cricket perspective how the venue runs," Tetley said. "Also, importantly, we will know from an operational perspective how all of the functional teams that will come together to run the stadium need to interact on an event day with people coming through the turnstiles,” he added. Ground preparation underway Populous - a globally renowned architecture and design firm, has been hired to construct the stadium which will have a seating capacity of 34,000. With trusted hands involved, Tetley provided ‘reassurance’ to the governing body, saying there would not be anything to worry about even in case of a last-minute hiccup. Alongside this, Damian Hough-headed Adelaide Oval Turf Solutions is preparing a set of drop-in pitches and LankTek Group – a USA-based turf-making business, which is known to be preparing fields for the New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Inter Miami CF, has been hired to manufacture the outfield. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × "In addition to testing events that give us a lot of reassurance is the quality of the people involved and the quality of the work that they do day in, day out: from Damian (Hough) on the pitches and the number of pitches he's building, which gives us a bit of flex in case one of the pitches doesn't go as well as we want, we can shift around so that we're not reliant on you know, a no latency solution there. "LandTek are working hand in glove with Damian on all of the agronomy aspects of the facility. From a cricket perspective, they are the ones that we are most keenly interested in ensuring over the right quality because that's fundamental,” he added.

New York’s Eisenhower Park, venue for India-Pakistan game, will not host any matches before T20 World Cup

India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi's approval to travel.

The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought several wars since winning independence from British rule in 1947, and sporting contests between the two have long been the victim of their enduring animosity.

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) asked the sports ministry for approval to travel to Pakistan after a request to shift the fixture to a third country was rejected by the International Tennis Federation tribunal.

"The proposal is still pending with the ministry and we are awaiting a decision," AITA secretary-general Anil Dhupar told AFP.&nbsp;

Pakistan Tennis Federation president Salim Saifullah Khan said 18 members of the Indian squad had requested visas for the World Group 1 clash scheduled for February 3-4.

"We have all the arrangements put in place. They will be given the best security and accommodation," he told AFP. "Let politics be kept away from sports and better sense prevail."

New Delhi last hosted the Pakistani tennis team in 2006 and the Indian Davis Cup team last travelled to Islamabad in 1964, according to news outlet India Today.

Local media reports said a 2019 match was moved to Kazakhstan, with the AITA citing political tensions as the reason for the request.

Sports matches between India and Pakistan are rare owing to decades of hostility between the two nations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-v-pak-play-delayed-after-third-umpire-got-stuck-in-lift-at-mcg-during-boxing-day-test-674226">AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test</a>

They share one of the world's great sporting rivalries in cricket, by far the most popular sport in both countries.

But their teams have not played a bilateral series in more than a decade, and typically only face each other in larger tournaments.&nbsp;

India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over Asia Cup in September, a move that forced its neighbour to partially relinquish hosting duties to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Pakistan travelled to India the following month for the Cricket World Cup after its request to stage some matches in a third country was rejected.&nbsp;

India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi's approval to travel.

India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi's approval to travel. The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought several wars since winning independence from British rule in 1947, and sporting contests between the two have long been the victim of their enduring animosity. The All India Tennis Association (AITA) asked the sports ministry for approval to travel to Pakistan after a request to shift the fixture to a third country was rejected by the International Tennis Federation tribunal. "The proposal is still pending with the ministry and we are awaiting a decision," AITA secretary-general Anil Dhupar told AFP. Pakistan Tennis Federation president Salim Saifullah Khan said 18 members of the Indian squad had requested visas for the World Group 1 clash scheduled for February 3-4. "We have all the arrangements put in place. They will be given the best security and accommodation," he told AFP. "Let politics be kept away from sports and better sense prevail." New Delhi last hosted the Pakistani tennis team in 2006 and the Indian Davis Cup team last travelled to Islamabad in 1964, according to news outlet India Today. Local media reports said a 2019 match was moved to Kazakhstan, with the AITA citing political tensions as the reason for the request. Sports matches between India and Pakistan are rare owing to decades of hostility between the two nations. ALSO READ | AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test They share one of the world's great sporting rivalries in cricket, by far the most popular sport in both countries. But their teams have not played a bilateral series in more than a decade, and typically only face each other in larger tournaments. India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over Asia Cup in September, a move that forced its neighbour to partially relinquish hosting duties to Sri Lanka. Pakistan travelled to India the following month for the Cricket World Cup after its request to stage some matches in a third country was rejected.

Tennis: India likely to miss Davis Cup match hosted by rival Pakistan

In 2024, New York will host the marquee India vs Pakistan 2024 T20 World Cup clash, per the latest reports. With the USA and the West Indies playing co-host for the T20 World Cup next year in June, America is said to have won the race to stage the mother of all matches.

In 2024, New York will host the marquee India vs Pakistan 2024 T20 World Cup clash, per the latest reports. With the USA and the West Indies playing co-host for the T20 World Cup next year in June, America is said to have won the race to stage the mother of all matches. As first reported by the Guardian, a pop-up 34,000 seating capacity temporary stadium (to be built) on the outskirts of New York will be the venue for the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match. New York has been chosen over other cities in the USA and the Caribbean because more than 7,11,000 Indians and about 1,00,000 Pakistani-origin people reside in the American city, as per the latest census data. Although the time difference between New York and India is nearly 10-and-a-half hours, some of the Indian games will be scheduled per the timing suited to the Indian audience. ALSO READ: Mohammed Shami, Kagiso Rabada among top stars doubtful for India-South Africa Tests Meanwhile, only three venues in the USA are locked in to host 2024 T20 World Cup matches - Central Broward Park in Florida, Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas and Eisenhower Park on Long Island, about 25 miles from downtown Manhattan. India vs Pakistan Unlike in previous years, India and Pakistan squared off more than twice in 2023 – during ICC and ACC-related tournaments. They faced off in the 2023 Asia Cup, wherein the first match got washed out due to rain, while India won their next tie against their arch-rivals. Following that, India and Pakistan met at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad during the 2023 World Cup, where India won the clash with seven wickets. Earlier, in 2022, during the India vs Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup at the MCG, star India batter Virat Kohli helped the Men in Blue cross the winning line with his majestic unbeaten 82. Though an India vs Pakistan match gets restricted to multi-team tournaments, New York hosting this high-octane clash will raise its value in that part of the world, which will host the 2028 Summer Games, in which cricket is returning after 112 years. Following the rise of franchise-based T20 cricket leagues, with one in the USA – the Major League Cricket (MLC), and considering its footprints across the Southeast-Asia market, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided to bring back cricket alongside four other sports for the LA28 Summer Games.

New York likely to host India vs Pakistan 2024 T20 World Cup match - Reports

Pakistan cricket team had a revenge of sorts against India on Sunday (Dec 10) as their U19 side got the better of the Men in Blue in Asia Cup by eight wickets. The tournament currently ongoing in Dubai saw Pakistan’s Azan Awais take the spotlight with an unbeaten 105 as they now head to the next stage of the tournament. The win also saw them top Group A of the eight-team Asia Cup tournament with India now needing a win against Nepal and Afghanistan to guarantee a top-two finish.

<h2>Awais steals the show</h2>

Having opted to bowl first, Pakistan restricted India to 259/9 in their 50 overs and needed to chase the total in the challenging conditions of Dubai. Opener Shamyl Hussain departed for 8 off 15 early but then Shahzaib Khan (63) and Awais stitched a partnership of 110 runs for the second wicket to lay the foundation of a win. Shahzaib’s innings consisted of 4 fours and 3 sixes while Awais hit 10 fours.

After Shahzaib’s dismissal, captain and wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig (unbeaten 68) helped the national side to victory. They put together 125 runs for the third wicket as Pakistan registered an eight-wicket win with 18 balls to spare. Murugan Abhishek scalped both wickets for India.&nbsp;

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<h2>What happened in Indian innings?</h2>

Earlier, Captain Uday Saharan’s 60-run knock coupled with Adarsh Singh’s 62 saw India make a good start to their innings before they lost way. The pair put up a partnership of 93 runs for the third wicket before the downfall began. Sachin Dhas then took&nbsp;the initiative with his 58 off 42 and helped India reach the total of 259/9 in 50 overs. Mohammad Zeeshan scalped four wickets while Amir Hassan and Ubaid Shah ended with two wickets each.&nbsp;

India will next take on Nepal on Tuesday in&nbsp;a do-or-die contest as they seek a place in the semifinal of the U-19 Asia Cup.

Pakistan cricket team had a revenge of sorts against India on Sunday (Dec 10) as their U19 side got the better of the Men in Blue in Asia Cup by eight wickets. The tournament currently ongoing in Dubai saw Pakistan’s Azan Awais take the spotlight with an unbeaten 105 as they now head to the next stage of the tournament.

Pakistan cricket team had a revenge of sorts against India on Sunday (Dec 10) as their U19 side got the better of the Men in Blue in Asia Cup by eight wickets. The tournament currently ongoing in Dubai saw Pakistan’s Azan Awais take the spotlight with an unbeaten 105 as they now head to the next stage of the tournament. The win also saw them top Group A of the eight-team Asia Cup tournament with India now needing a win against Nepal and Afghanistan to guarantee a top-two finish. Awais steals the show Having opted to bowl first, Pakistan restricted India to 259/9 in their 50 overs and needed to chase the total in the challenging conditions of Dubai. Opener Shamyl Hussain departed for 8 off 15 early but then Shahzaib Khan (63) and Awais stitched a partnership of 110 runs for the second wicket to lay the foundation of a win. Shahzaib’s innings consisted of 4 fours and 3 sixes while Awais hit 10 fours. After Shahzaib’s dismissal, captain and wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig (unbeaten 68) helped the national side to victory. They put together 125 runs for the third wicket as Pakistan registered an eight-wicket win with 18 balls to spare. Murugan Abhishek scalped both wickets for India. ALSO READ | Los Angeles Lakers beat Indiana Pacers in maiden in-season tournament final What happened in Indian innings? Earlier, Captain Uday Saharan’s 60-run knock coupled with Adarsh Singh’s 62 saw India make a good start to their innings before they lost way. The pair put up a partnership of 93 runs for the third wicket before the downfall began. Sachin Dhas then took the initiative with his 58 off 42 and helped India reach the total of 259/9 in 50 overs. Mohammad Zeeshan scalped four wickets while Amir Hassan and Ubaid Shah ended with two wickets each. India will next take on Nepal on Tuesday in a do-or-die contest as they seek a place in the semifinal of the U-19 Asia Cup.

U-19 Asia Cup 2023: Azan Awais' ton leads Pakistan to win against India; Shahzaib Khan stars with 63

Virat Kohli is currently enjoying his time away from the game post India's heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 final loss, to Australia, last month. Kohli ended with most runs (765 -- most by any batter in a single edition).&nbsp;Over the years, the former Indian captain has broken a multitude of batting records, especially in white-ball formats. Since his international debut, in 2008, Kohli has&nbsp;had famous rivalries with innumerable bowlers from the opposition camps.&nbsp;

Veteran Pakistan pacer Junaid Khan has enjoyed&nbsp;a memorable battle with Kohli on the field. Junaid has dominated the Indian batter, having dismissed him thrice in five ODIs -- all of which happened in consecutive matches during Pakistan's 2012/13 tour of India&nbsp;-- and conceded a solitary boundary in the only T20I where they came face-to-face.

Recalling Pakistan's last visit to India for a bilateral series, including three ODIs and two T20Is in 2012/13, Junaid spoke at length on his dominance over Kohli. Back then, he dismissed the Indian batter in all the three ODIs (which the Men in Green won 2-1). Speaking on Nadir Shah’s podcast, Junaid said, “Dande toh bahut saare ke udaye hai magar log jo yaad karte hai wo Virat Kohli ke hai (I have taken wickets of so many batsmen but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket).”

He further mentioned, "We have played in the U-19 World Cup, we knew each other. It was my comeback series and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match and he told me it will not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match. Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him 'Viru, aaj aapki khair nahi hai (Virat, you will not be spared today).' Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch," said Junaid who never managed to dismiss Kohli again.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-should-indias-star-javelin-thrower-neeraj-chopra-shares-advice-for-pacer-666105">‘Jasprit Bumrah should...’: India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra shares advice for pacer</a>

Kohli ended the three ODIs with scores of 0, 6 and 7. Meanwhile, Junaid returned with eight wickets at an economy rate of 3.66 -- having troubled India's famed batters.

Junaid, however, heaped words of praise on Kohli as he rates him among the top-5 batters in the world. “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball they way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world class batsman,” he added.

Kohli recently ended the home ODI WC surpassing Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's ODI ton tally (49). He now has 50 ODI hundreds, most by any, and a total of 80 international centuries to his name. He will look to add to his ton-tally during India's tour of South Africa, where he is part of Rohit Sharma-led side's Test squad.&nbsp;

The two-match Test series kicks off on Dec 26.

Virat Kohli is currently enjoying his time away from the game post India's heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 final loss, to Australia, last month. Kohli ended with most runs (765 -- most by any batter in a single edition).

Virat Kohli is currently enjoying his time away from the game post India's heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 final loss, to Australia, last month. Kohli ended with most runs (765 -- most by any batter in a single edition). Over the years, the former Indian captain has broken a multitude of batting records, especially in white-ball formats. Since his international debut, in 2008, Kohli has had famous rivalries with innumerable bowlers from the opposition camps. Veteran Pakistan pacer Junaid Khan has enjoyed a memorable battle with Kohli on the field. Junaid has dominated the Indian batter, having dismissed him thrice in five ODIs -- all of which happened in consecutive matches during Pakistan's 2012/13 tour of India -- and conceded a solitary boundary in the only T20I where they came face-to-face. Recalling Pakistan's last visit to India for a bilateral series, including three ODIs and two T20Is in 2012/13, Junaid spoke at length on his dominance over Kohli. Back then, he dismissed the Indian batter in all the three ODIs (which the Men in Green won 2-1). Speaking on Nadir Shah’s podcast, Junaid said, “Dande toh bahut saare ke udaye hai magar log jo yaad karte hai wo Virat Kohli ke hai (I have taken wickets of so many batsmen but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket).” He further mentioned, "We have played in the U-19 World Cup, we knew each other. It was my comeback series and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match and he told me it will not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match. Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him 'Viru, aaj aapki khair nahi hai (Virat, you will not be spared today).' Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch," said Junaid who never managed to dismiss Kohli again. Also read: ‘Jasprit Bumrah should...’: India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra shares advice for pacer Kohli ended the three ODIs with scores of 0, 6 and 7. Meanwhile, Junaid returned with eight wickets at an economy rate of 3.66 -- having troubled India's famed batters. Junaid, however, heaped words of praise on Kohli as he rates him among the top-5 batters in the world. “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball they way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world class batsman,” he added. Kohli recently ended the home ODI WC surpassing Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's ODI ton tally (49). He now has 50 ODI hundreds, most by any, and a total of 80 international centuries to his name. He will look to add to his ton-tally during India's tour of South Africa, where he is part of Rohit Sharma-led side's Test squad. The two-match Test series kicks off on Dec 26.

'You will not be spared today': Veteran Pakistan pacer recalls dominating Virat Kohli during 2012/13 ODIs

Former Pakistan seamer Junaid Khan recalled playing against India great Virat Kohli. While Junaid expressed his utmost respect for the batter and cricketer that Kohli has emerged, the left-handed pacer still cherishes every time he dismissed Kohli in limited meetings, adding people haven’t forgotten that either.

“I have taken wickets of so many batsmen, but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket,” Junaid said on Nadir Shah’s podcast.

During India-Pakistan's last bilateral series in 2012/13, Junaid dismissed Virat on all three occasions.&nbsp;

In the first ODI in Chennai, where he cleaned up his off-stump, Junaid picked Kohli caught behind in the second ODI in Kolkata. Their premier pacer back then, Junaid, recalled an instance of warning Kohli ahead of the final ODI in Delhi, where also he got rid of him.

“We have played in the U-19 World Cup; we knew each other. It was my comeback series, and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match, and he told me it would not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match."&nbsp;

"Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him ‘Virat you will not be spared today.’ Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch,” Junaid revealed during the discussion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-naseem-shah-switch-bases-in-sensational-psl-2024-trade-665470">Pakistan's Naseem Shah switch bases in sensational PSL 2024 trade</a>

Around 11 years later, Virat has stamped his authority as the greatest batter of the modern-day game, going past legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s 50 ODI centuries tally during the recently-concluded World Cup.&nbsp;

Speaking highly of the India great, Junaid said, “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball, the way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world-class batsman.”&nbsp;

<h2>Rohit is better than both – Junaid&nbsp;</h2>

When asked about his opinion on the best Indian batter of the two – Sachin or Virat, Junaid named current captain Rohit Sharma, saying the veteran star has more shots in his kitty than Kohli and Sachin.

“In my opinion, Rohit Sharma is a better batsman than Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli,” Junaid said. 
 
Junaid added because Rohit has more double hundreds in ODIs in comparison to others and is also the batter with the most sixes in the One-Dayers, he is ahead of the two.

“Everybody calls Rohit ‘The Hitman.’ He has scored an incredible 264. He has also smashed a couple of double-hundreds in the ODIs. This is rare because he has done it more than once. He has also hit the most number of sixes. That’s why I would vote for Rohit,” Junaid added.

Former Pakistan seamer Junaid Khan recalled playing against India great Virat Kohli. While Junaid expressed his utmost respect for the batter and cricketer that Kohli has emerged, the left-handed pacer still cherishes every time he dismissed Kohli in limited meetings, adding people haven’t forgotten that either.

Former Pakistan seamer Junaid Khan recalled playing against India great Virat Kohli. While Junaid expressed his utmost respect for the batter and cricketer that Kohli has emerged, the left-handed pacer still cherishes every time he dismissed Kohli in limited meetings, adding people haven’t forgotten that either. “I have taken wickets of so many batsmen, but people always remember Virat Kohli’s wicket,” Junaid said on Nadir Shah’s podcast. During India-Pakistan's last bilateral series in 2012/13, Junaid dismissed Virat on all three occasions. In the first ODI in Chennai, where he cleaned up his off-stump, Junaid picked Kohli caught behind in the second ODI in Kolkata. Their premier pacer back then, Junaid, recalled an instance of warning Kohli ahead of the final ODI in Delhi, where also he got rid of him. “We have played in the U-19 World Cup; we knew each other. It was my comeback series, and I was playing against India for the first time. I got Kohli in the first match, and he told me it would not happen again. I got him again in the second and third match." "Before the third ODI at the breakfast table, I told him ‘Virat you will not be spared today.’ Younis Khan was also there. He said get him out again today. Younis bhai took Virat’s catch,” Junaid revealed during the discussion. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Naseem Shah switch bases in sensational PSL 2024 trade Around 11 years later, Virat has stamped his authority as the greatest batter of the modern-day game, going past legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s 50 ODI centuries tally during the recently-concluded World Cup. Speaking highly of the India great, Junaid said, “Virat Kohli is still among the top five batsmen in the World. Especially in the white-ball, the way he has made records and has recently broken Sachin Tendulkar’s century record. He is a world-class batsman.” Rohit is better than both – Junaid When asked about his opinion on the best Indian batter of the two – Sachin or Virat, Junaid named current captain Rohit Sharma, saying the veteran star has more shots in his kitty than Kohli and Sachin. “In my opinion, Rohit Sharma is a better batsman than Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli,” Junaid said. Junaid added because Rohit has more double hundreds in ODIs in comparison to others and is also the batter with the most sixes in the One-Dayers, he is ahead of the two. “Everybody calls Rohit ‘The Hitman.’ He has scored an incredible 264. He has also smashed a couple of double-hundreds in the ODIs. This is rare because he has done it more than once. He has also hit the most number of sixes. That’s why I would vote for Rohit,” Junaid added.

Junaid Khan cherishes every Virat Kohli dismissal of his, recalls brief but interesting rivalry

Harbhajan Singh has slammed former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq over the latter's comments that the ex-Indian spinner was close to converting his religion after meeting a Muslim scholar.&nbsp;

In a video that has gone viral on social media, Inzamam can be seen addressing a gathering where he recalls a story from the time when the Indian team toured Pakistan.

Inzamam alleged that Muslim players in the India squad&nbsp;(referring to Irfan Pathan, Mohammed Kaif and Zaheer Khan) used to join the Pakistan players for prayers. During the prayers, non-Muslim Indian players like Harbhajan Singh also joined in and observed the proceedings.&nbsp;

“We had a room where prayers were conducted. Maulana Tariq Jameel used to visit us in the evening and lead us into a namaz. After a few days, Irfan Pathan, Mohammed Kaif and Zaheer Khan also started coming," said Inzamam.

"Four other Indian cricketers sat and watched us.&nbsp;Harbhajan, who was unaware that Tariq Jameel was a maulana, said that ‘I am impressed with this man and want to follow his words',” he added.&nbsp;

However, Harbhajan did not take kindly to Inzamam's allegations and took to X, formerly known as Twitter and gave a strong reply.&nbsp;

"What is he drinking before speaking such nonsense? I am a proud Indian and a proud Sikh...these worthless people speak anything (Yeh kon sa nasha pee kar baat kar raha hai? I am a proud Indian and proud Sikh..yeh Bakwaas log kuch bi bakte hai)," posted Harbhajan.&nbsp;

In an interview to India Today, Harbhaj added:&nbsp;"I just want to say that someone should take Inzamam ul Haq to the doctor. He is not in the right mental state, please take him to the doctor. He is given odd statements. I am a Sikh and I am very happy to be born in a Sikh family."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-a-terrible-thing-to-say-abdul-razzaq-slammed-for-controversial-remarks-on-aishwarya-rai-bachchan-658481">Also read | 'What a terrible thing to say': Abdul Razzaq slammed for controversial remarks on Aishwarya Rai Bachchan</a>

Inzamam has waded into the&nbsp;controversy the same day as his former teammate Abdul Razzaq was panned across the social media for his miogynist&nbsp;statements.&nbsp;

During an event,&nbsp;Razzaq mentioned&nbsp;popular Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's name in a distasteful manner.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Harbhajan Singh has slammed former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq over the latter's comments that the ex-Indian spinner was close to converting his religion after meeting a Muslim scholar.

Harbhajan Singh has slammed former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq over the latter's comments that the ex-Indian spinner was close to converting his religion after meeting a Muslim scholar. In a video that has gone viral on social media, Inzamam can be seen addressing a gathering where he recalls a story from the time when the Indian team toured Pakistan. Inzamam alleged that Muslim players in the India squad (referring to Irfan Pathan, Mohammed Kaif and Zaheer Khan) used to join the Pakistan players for prayers. During the prayers, non-Muslim Indian players like Harbhajan Singh also joined in and observed the proceedings. “We had a room where prayers were conducted. Maulana Tariq Jameel used to visit us in the evening and lead us into a namaz. After a few days, Irfan Pathan, Mohammed Kaif and Zaheer Khan also started coming," said Inzamam. "Four other Indian cricketers sat and watched us. Harbhajan, who was unaware that Tariq Jameel was a maulana, said that ‘I am impressed with this man and want to follow his words',” he added. However, Harbhajan did not take kindly to Inzamam's allegations and took to X, formerly known as Twitter and gave a strong reply. "What is he drinking before speaking such nonsense? I am a proud Indian and a proud Sikh...these worthless people speak anything (Yeh kon sa nasha pee kar baat kar raha hai? I am a proud Indian and proud Sikh..yeh Bakwaas log kuch bi bakte hai)," posted Harbhajan. In an interview to India Today, Harbhaj added: "I just want to say that someone should take Inzamam ul Haq to the doctor. He is not in the right mental state, please take him to the doctor. He is given odd statements. I am a Sikh and I am very happy to be born in a Sikh family." Also read | 'What a terrible thing to say': Abdul Razzaq slammed for controversial remarks on Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Inzamam has waded into the controversy the same day as his former teammate Abdul Razzaq was panned across the social media for his miogynist statements. During an event, Razzaq mentioned popular Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's name in a distasteful manner. (With inputs from agencies)

'What is he drinking?': Harbhajan Singh slams Inzamam-ul-Haq for 'conversion' claims

The race for the semifinals of the ODI World Cup is heating up with one spot still up for grabs as Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan scramble to reach the promised land. Three teams including hosts India have booked their place in the last four while South Africa and Australia are also in the hunt for glory. The latter two are all set to face in one semifinal while India are waiting to know who they could face to reach the summit clash.

However, fans across the world are hoping for India vs Pakistan clash in the semifinal.

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Australia lock up a semi-final spot 🔒 
 
One place still remains. Who can reach the final four? 📲 <a href="https://t.co/OHY3825MLS">https://t.co/OHY3825MLS</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xn93fmTBVN">pic.twitter.com/Xn93fmTBVN</a>
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<h2>What is the current scenario?</h2>

With India guaranteed a place in the semifinals as league toppers, and South Africa and Australia to finish in second and third place, Pakistan need to finish fourth.

As things stand, Pakistan are fifth in the league standings while New Zealand are in the fourth spot. Afghanistan are also in the race to reach the last four but will need favours from other sides.

Currently all the three teams are locked on same number points (eight points from eight matches) and are separated by Net Run Rate (NRR).

New Zealand are on +0.398 while Pakistan and Afghanistan are on +0.036 and -0.338 respectively.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-pakistan-to-reach-odi-world-cup-semi-finals-and-play-india-says-former-captain-sourav-ganguly-656852">Want Pakistan to reach ODI World Cup semi-finals and play India, says former captain Sourav Ganguly</a>

<h2>How can India vs Pakistan take place in semifinals?</h2>

For Pakistan to finish fourth, they will have to better the result of New Zealand and match the result of Aghanistan in the final league match.

In case New Zealand win by even one run, Pakistan will have to win by 131 runs or in 35 overs to better their NRR.

However, a defeat for New Zealand will see them needing to match Afghanistan’s result in the final league match.

However, the task won’t be straightforward as Babar Azam’s men take on England who are buying for a place in the 2025 Champions Trophy with qualification up for stake.

On the other hand, Afghanistan will play South Africa, having suffered a demoralising defeat to Australia where Glenn Maxwell was the star of the show.

Pakistan’s failure to win against England could still see them make the last four provided both New Zealand and Afghanistan lose by big margins and end with worse NRR.

However, that possibility could be ruled out, considering New Zealand are dominating Sri Lanka in their final league match.

At the time of writing, bowling first, the Kiwis have reduced Sri Lanka to 114/8 and are all set for a big win which could see them book their place in the last four.

The race for the semifinals of the ODI World Cup is heating up with one spot still up for grabs as Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan scramble to reach the promised land.

The race for the semifinals of the ODI World Cup is heating up with one spot still up for grabs as Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan scramble to reach the promised land. Three teams including hosts India have booked their place in the last four while South Africa and Australia are also in the hunt for glory. The latter two are all set to face in one semifinal while India are waiting to know who they could face to reach the summit clash. However, fans across the world are hoping for India vs Pakistan clash in the semifinal. Australia lock up a semi-final spot 🔒 One place still remains. Who can reach the final four? 📲 https://t.co/OHY3825MLS#CWC23 pic.twitter.com/Xn93fmTBVN — ICC (@ICC) November 8, 2023 × What is the current scenario? With India guaranteed a place in the semifinals as league toppers, and South Africa and Australia to finish in second and third place, Pakistan need to finish fourth. As things stand, Pakistan are fifth in the league standings while New Zealand are in the fourth spot. Afghanistan are also in the race to reach the last four but will need favours from other sides. Currently all the three teams are locked on same number points (eight points from eight matches) and are separated by Net Run Rate (NRR). New Zealand are on +0.398 while Pakistan and Afghanistan are on +0.036 and -0.338 respectively. ALSO READ | Want Pakistan to reach ODI World Cup semi-finals and play India, says former captain Sourav Ganguly How can India vs Pakistan take place in semifinals? For Pakistan to finish fourth, they will have to better the result of New Zealand and match the result of Aghanistan in the final league match. In case New Zealand win by even one run, Pakistan will have to win by 131 runs or in 35 overs to better their NRR. However, a defeat for New Zealand will see them needing to match Afghanistan’s result in the final league match. However, the task won’t be straightforward as Babar Azam’s men take on England who are buying for a place in the 2025 Champions Trophy with qualification up for stake. On the other hand, Afghanistan will play South Africa, having suffered a demoralising defeat to Australia where Glenn Maxwell was the star of the show. Pakistan’s failure to win against England could still see them make the last four provided both New Zealand and Afghanistan lose by big margins and end with worse NRR. However, that possibility could be ruled out, considering New Zealand are dominating Sri Lanka in their final league match. At the time of writing, bowling first, the Kiwis have reduced Sri Lanka to 114/8 and are all set for a big win which could see them book their place in the last four.

ODI World Cup 2023: Can the semifinal be India vs Pakistan? Here are the odds

Pakistan have a complex road ahead in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition. With one game to go, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green need a win&nbsp;versus England in their remaining tie and also hope for New Zealand and Afghanistan's exit to grab the leftover fourth semi-final spot. Ahead of their next outing, on Saturday (Nov 11), former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has backed the Men in Green to reach the top four and play India in a high-voltage semi-final.&nbsp;

"I want Pakistan to reach the semi-finals and play India. It can't be a bigger semi-final than that," Ganguly told Sports Tak.

The last time when India hosted the 50-over World Cup, in 2011, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, they faced arch-rivals Pakistan in the second semi-final and went past them by 29 runs in Mohali. As India are set to finish first and Pakistan can only take the fourth remaining slot, they can meet in the second semi-final at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

It is to be noted that Pakistan's semi-final will only take place in Kolkata&nbsp;due to security concerns.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-ben-stokes-wants-to-make-sure-england-qualify-for-2025-champions-trophy-jos-buttler-656828">CWC 2023: Ben Stokes wants to make sure England qualify for 2025 Champions Trophy - Jos Buttler</a>

Meanwhile, Ganguly spoke at length about Rohit Sharma-led Team India's performance, who are on an eight-match winning streak in the ten-team tournament at home. While he accepted that the hosts have played way better than every opposition, he was quick to dismiss the reporter's claim that it will be a shock if India do not go on to lift the cup. He, however, mentioned that he does not feel the team's level will&nbsp;drop drastically in the knockouts.

"No, it won't be a shock (if this Indian team does not win&nbsp;the World Cup). It doesn't happen in sports like that. The entire nation is happy with the way India is playing. The way they have played in the 8 games, it appears that there is a big gap from the rest of the teams. I hope they keep playing like this. I don't think the level will drop so drastically (in semi-finals) that they will suddenly start playing poor cricket. Fingers crossed, they are looking very good," the former Indian skipper added.

Pakistan have a complex road ahead in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition. With one game to go, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green need a win versus England in their remaining tie and also hope for New Zealand and Afghanistan's exit to grab the leftover fourth semi-final spot.

Pakistan have a complex road ahead in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition. With one game to go, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green need a win versus England in their remaining tie and also hope for New Zealand and Afghanistan's exit to grab the leftover fourth semi-final spot. Ahead of their next outing, on Saturday (Nov 11), former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has backed the Men in Green to reach the top four and play India in a high-voltage semi-final. "I want Pakistan to reach the semi-finals and play India. It can't be a bigger semi-final than that," Ganguly told Sports Tak. The last time when India hosted the 50-over World Cup, in 2011, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, they faced arch-rivals Pakistan in the second semi-final and went past them by 29 runs in Mohali. As India are set to finish first and Pakistan can only take the fourth remaining slot, they can meet in the second semi-final at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. It is to be noted that Pakistan's semi-final will only take place in Kolkata due to security concerns. Also read: CWC 2023: Ben Stokes wants to make sure England qualify for 2025 Champions Trophy - Jos Buttler Meanwhile, Ganguly spoke at length about Rohit Sharma-led Team India's performance, who are on an eight-match winning streak in the ten-team tournament at home. While he accepted that the hosts have played way better than every opposition, he was quick to dismiss the reporter's claim that it will be a shock if India do not go on to lift the cup. He, however, mentioned that he does not feel the team's level will drop drastically in the knockouts. "No, it won't be a shock (if this Indian team does not win the World Cup). It doesn't happen in sports like that. The entire nation is happy with the way India is playing. The way they have played in the 8 games, it appears that there is a big gap from the rest of the teams. I hope they keep playing like this. I don't think the level will drop so drastically (in semi-finals) that they will suddenly start playing poor cricket. Fingers crossed, they are looking very good," the former Indian skipper added.

Want Pakistan to reach ODI World Cup semi-finals and play India, says former captain Sourav Ganguly

Former India star player Mohammed Kaif has made a bold prediction for India vs Pakistan's potential final as the latter stands an opportunity to make the last four of the ODI World Cup. India already guaranteed as league leaders will enter the semifinal in good form while Pakistan need certain equations to go their way to reach the same stage. If the two teams meet in the World Cup semis it will be the 9th time they meet in the global event while this will be the second time in the ongoing tournament.

<h2>Kaif makes bold prediction</h2>

"They can reach but it will be a one-sided affair. I am opening the pages of history, what has happened. India have defeated them easily. However, Pakistan have the chance. If they play a good match and defeat England, the net-run-rate issue will be there, so they can reach there with a big win," said Kaif while speaking on Starsports.

Pakistan will have a task in their hands when they face England on Saturday (Nov 11) at the Eden Gardens. Pakistan will need to match New Zealand’s result to reach the last four provided they win by more than 130 runs. They will also need Afghanistan to lose at least one match from their remaining two against South Africa and Australia.

If Afghanistan beat both South Africa and Australia, they will reach the semis albeit of the Pakistan and New Zealand’s result in the final round of matches. Pakistan can reach the semis even with a defeat but will need both New Zealand and Afghanistan to lose by big margins which could aid their Net Run Rate (NRR).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-sri-lanka-bangladesh-players-refuse-to-shake-hands-after-mathews-timed-out-controversy-655953">CWC 2023: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh players REFUSE to shake hands after Mathews 'timed out' controversy</a>

The semifinal clash can only take place if Pakistan finish fourth in the league ahead of New Zealand in the ODI World Cup. England can play spoilsport in the contest but have a Champions Trophy spot to play for and could put a spanner in the work. On the other hand, India take on the Netherlands in the final league game in Bengaluru with the Dutch also trying to qualify for the Champions Trophy.

In case India and Pakistan play in the ODI World Cup semifinal, they will play at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. In case Pakistan don’t make the semifinal, India will play at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai with the final taking place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Former India star player Mohammed Kaif has made a bold prediction for India vs Pakistan's potential final as the latter stands an opportunity to make the last four of the ODI World Cup.

Former India star player Mohammed Kaif has made a bold prediction for India vs Pakistan's potential final as the latter stands an opportunity to make the last four of the ODI World Cup. India already guaranteed as league leaders will enter the semifinal in good form while Pakistan need certain equations to go their way to reach the same stage. If the two teams meet in the World Cup semis it will be the 9th time they meet in the global event while this will be the second time in the ongoing tournament. Kaif makes bold prediction "They can reach but it will be a one-sided affair. I am opening the pages of history, what has happened. India have defeated them easily. However, Pakistan have the chance. If they play a good match and defeat England, the net-run-rate issue will be there, so they can reach there with a big win," said Kaif while speaking on Starsports. Pakistan will have a task in their hands when they face England on Saturday (Nov 11) at the Eden Gardens. Pakistan will need to match New Zealand’s result to reach the last four provided they win by more than 130 runs. They will also need Afghanistan to lose at least one match from their remaining two against South Africa and Australia. If Afghanistan beat both South Africa and Australia, they will reach the semis albeit of the Pakistan and New Zealand’s result in the final round of matches. Pakistan can reach the semis even with a defeat but will need both New Zealand and Afghanistan to lose by big margins which could aid their Net Run Rate (NRR). ALSO READ | CWC 2023: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh players REFUSE to shake hands after Mathews 'timed out' controversy The semifinal clash can only take place if Pakistan finish fourth in the league ahead of New Zealand in the ODI World Cup. England can play spoilsport in the contest but have a Champions Trophy spot to play for and could put a spanner in the work. On the other hand, India take on the Netherlands in the final league game in Bengaluru with the Dutch also trying to qualify for the Champions Trophy. In case India and Pakistan play in the ODI World Cup semifinal, they will play at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. In case Pakistan don’t make the semifinal, India will play at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai with the final taking place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: Former star makes BOLD prediction for India vs Pakistan potential SF clash

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the alleged inappropriate conduct of the Ahmedabad crowd in their ODI World Cup contest against India on Saturday (Oct 14). The high-voltage clash between the two nations took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in which&nbsp;India beat Pakistan by seven wickets to extend their winning run to 8-0 against the arch-rivals in the ODI World Cup while more than 120,000 fans were in attendance.

<h2>PCB lodges complaint</h2>

"The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged another formal protest with the ICC over delays in visas for Pakistani journalists and the absence of a visa policy for Pakistan fans for the ongoing World Cup 2023. The PCB has also filed a complaint regarding inappropriate conduct targeted at the Pakistan squad during the India vs Pakistan match held on 14 October 2023," read the statement.

The PCB has been in hot water recently and were first reluctant to play in Ahmedabad against India. However, those requests were not considered. The PCB also wanted clearance from the Indian government for their journalists to travel to India for the ODI World Cup, having previously seen their entry denied.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-australia-pacer-mitchell-starcs-toe-crushing-yorker-vs-sl-to-dismiss-batter-647959">ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH - Australia pacer Mitchell Starc's TOE-CRUSHING yorker vs SL to dismiss batter</a>

The Men in Green suffered an embarrassing seven-wicket defeat to India on Saturday, which was their first of the ODI World Cup campaign. They had earlier beaten Netherlands and Sri Lanka, with the latter chase coming in a record-breaking contest as they scored 345 runs. The defeat to India has now seen their losing streak extend to 8-0 in the ODI World Cups.

Pakistan will next travel to Bengaluru to face Australia. Babar’s side would now look to bounce back from their defeat against India with a positive result on Friday. Australia on the other hand have faced problems of their own having lost their opening two matches. However, they avoided defeat on Monday, beating Sri Lanka by five wickets in Lucknow.

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the alleged inappropriate conduct of the Ahmedabad crowd in their ODI World Cup contest against India on Saturday (Oct 14).

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the alleged inappropriate conduct of the Ahmedabad crowd in their ODI World Cup contest against India on Saturday (Oct 14). The high-voltage clash between the two nations took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in which India beat Pakistan by seven wickets to extend their winning run to 8-0 against the arch-rivals in the ODI World Cup while more than 120,000 fans were in attendance. PCB lodges complaint "The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged another formal protest with the ICC over delays in visas for Pakistani journalists and the absence of a visa policy for Pakistan fans for the ongoing World Cup 2023. The PCB has also filed a complaint regarding inappropriate conduct targeted at the Pakistan squad during the India vs Pakistan match held on 14 October 2023," read the statement. The PCB has been in hot water recently and were first reluctant to play in Ahmedabad against India. However, those requests were not considered. The PCB also wanted clearance from the Indian government for their journalists to travel to India for the ODI World Cup, having previously seen their entry denied. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH - Australia pacer Mitchell Starc's TOE-CRUSHING yorker vs SL to dismiss batter The Men in Green suffered an embarrassing seven-wicket defeat to India on Saturday, which was their first of the ODI World Cup campaign. They had earlier beaten Netherlands and Sri Lanka, with the latter chase coming in a record-breaking contest as they scored 345 runs. The defeat to India has now seen their losing streak extend to 8-0 in the ODI World Cups. Pakistan will next travel to Bengaluru to face Australia. Babar’s side would now look to bounce back from their defeat against India with a positive result on Friday. Australia on the other hand have faced problems of their own having lost their opening two matches. However, they avoided defeat on Monday, beating Sri Lanka by five wickets in Lucknow. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: PCB lodge complaint with ICC for inappropriate crowd conduct in Ahmedabad

Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has hit back at Mickey Arthur after the latter made some audacious claims, despite being humbled by the men-in-blue in the World Cup encounter.

Former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has hit back at Mickey Arthur after the latter made some audacious claims, despite being humbled by the men-in-blue in the World Cup encounter. After the loss, Arthur, Pakistan men's cricket team's technical director admitted that he is still looking forward to taking on the tournament hosts in the summit clash. “Mickey Arthur said we’ll meet in the final. I don’t think Pakistan can ever beat India in an ICC trophy or in any other event considering the team they have. Even our C team can beat Pakistan’s main XI. Make an IPL XI of players who are not playing, even they can defeat the Pakistan team,” said Sreesanth. “Pakistan cannot even dream of playing in such a big stadium. We gave them a chance, but if you play like that, you won’t get such chances again,” Sreesanth added. Also read | World Cup 2023: ICC responds to Mickey Arthur's controversial 'BCCI event' remarks Arthur's controversial remarks Ever since suffering the loss against India, Arthur has issued a slew of excuses to hide the dismal performance of the Pakistan team. He said the World Cup in India felt more like a BCCI event than an ICC event. "It didn't seem like an ICC event to be brutally honest. It seemed like a bilateral series; it seemed like a BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) event," said Arthur. Arthur also accused the Narendra Modi Stadium's public address system organisers of favouring India by refusing to play "Dil Dil Pakistan", the nation's unofficial anthem. "I didn't hear 'Dil Dil Pakistan' ('My heart is Pakistan') coming through too often tonight. So yes, that does play a role, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse." India belted Pakistan by seven wickets in the match after the bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, outfoxed the opposition batters. In the end, India maintained their perfect World Cup record against the arch-rivals, extending it to eight wins in as many games. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'Even India's C team can beat them', Former Indian cricketer claps back at Pakistan

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik has suggested that Babar Azam give up his captaincy duties after the team suffered a humiliating loss against India in the World Cup.&nbsp;

Malik, a former Pakistan skipper reasoned that since Babar did not think outside the box, he did not fit the mould of a captain.&nbsp;

"I gave an opinion in the past as well that Babar Azam should leave captaincy. This is my personal opinion. Babar does not think out of the box as a captain. He is doing captaincy, but the improvement is not coming. He can do wonders for Pakistan as a player," said Malik.&nbsp;

“Shaheen Afridi should become captain in white ball cricket in case Babar Azam resigns," he added.&nbsp;

However, Malik's comments did not go down well with Mohammed Yousuf who said even Imran Khan was given three chances to bring the World Cup trophy home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Imran Khan captained in 1983 and 1987 and lost both times before winning on his third attempt in 1992. Any good player should be allowed to continue as a captain for a long time. He is the captain because he has the ability,” said Yousuf.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-beat-us-like-kids-former-pakistan-player-blasts-team-after-humiliating-wc-performance-against-india-647157">Also read |&nbsp;'They beat us like kids': Former Pakistan player blasts team after 'humiliating' WC performance against India</a>

<h2>If I was in Babar's place...</h2>

This is not the first instance when Malik has advised Babar to quit captaincy and focus on his own game. In April this year, Malik on a Pakistani TV news channel iterated the same views.&nbsp;

"If I was in Babar’s place, or those people who guide him, they should tell him that Babar should quit captaincy. And focus just as a player. Pakistan team will also benefit from this,” said Malik.&nbsp;

With the sword dangling over his captaincy, Babar, however, appears confident and says his captaincy tenure will not be decided by one match.&nbsp;

"I never worry, that because of this match, I will lose my captaincy. Whatever God has written for me – I will get it. I will get what I deserve. I didn't get the captaincy because of one match and I will not lose it because of one match," Babar said.

Pakistan suffered a morale-downing defeat against arch-rivals India last week wherein Babar and wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Rizwan were called out for batting timidly when the Men-in-Green were in an advantageous position.&nbsp;

The lack of application in batting allowed India to storm back and restrict Pakistan to a sub-par total. It didn't help things that Babar looked devoid of ideas while attempting to defend the target.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik has suggested that Babar Azam give up his captaincy duties after the team suffered a humiliating loss against India in the World Cup.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik has suggested that Babar Azam give up his captaincy duties after the team suffered a humiliating loss against India in the World Cup. Malik, a former Pakistan skipper reasoned that since Babar did not think outside the box, he did not fit the mould of a captain. "I gave an opinion in the past as well that Babar Azam should leave captaincy. This is my personal opinion. Babar does not think out of the box as a captain. He is doing captaincy, but the improvement is not coming. He can do wonders for Pakistan as a player," said Malik. “Shaheen Afridi should become captain in white ball cricket in case Babar Azam resigns," he added. However, Malik's comments did not go down well with Mohammed Yousuf who said even Imran Khan was given three chances to bring the World Cup trophy home. “Imran Khan captained in 1983 and 1987 and lost both times before winning on his third attempt in 1992. Any good player should be allowed to continue as a captain for a long time. He is the captain because he has the ability,” said Yousuf. Also read | 'They beat us like kids': Former Pakistan player blasts team after 'humiliating' WC performance against India If I was in Babar's place... This is not the first instance when Malik has advised Babar to quit captaincy and focus on his own game. In April this year, Malik on a Pakistani TV news channel iterated the same views. "If I was in Babar’s place, or those people who guide him, they should tell him that Babar should quit captaincy. And focus just as a player. Pakistan team will also benefit from this,” said Malik. With the sword dangling over his captaincy, Babar, however, appears confident and says his captaincy tenure will not be decided by one match. "I never worry, that because of this match, I will lose my captaincy. Whatever God has written for me – I will get it. I will get what I deserve. I didn't get the captaincy because of one match and I will not lose it because of one match," Babar said. Pakistan suffered a morale-downing defeat against arch-rivals India last week wherein Babar and wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Rizwan were called out for batting timidly when the Men-in-Green were in an advantageous position. The lack of application in batting allowed India to storm back and restrict Pakistan to a sub-par total. It didn't help things that Babar looked devoid of ideas while attempting to defend the target. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: 'He doesn't think...', Shoaib Malik suggests Babar Azam quit captaincy after India loss

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has slammed Babar Azam-led Pakistan's batting unit after their horror show versus arch-rivals India in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. The sides met each other on Saturday (Oct 14) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad where India opted to bowl first.&nbsp;

From 155 for 2, Pakistan slipped to 191 all-out in 42.5 overs with Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 19), Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 35) and the likes of Md Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya claiming two wickets apiece. In reply, India made a mockery of the low total and chased it down in 30.3 overs to win by seven wickets in hand.

After yet another defeat to India in ODI World Cup history, Ganguly has come hard at the Pakistani batters. He was quoted as saying by Times Now, "During our time, Pakistan was a different team, this is not the type of Pakistan team we used to play. This team can’t handle the pressure during the batting. It will be hard for Pakistan to come back in this World Cup with this batting."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-pat-cummins-is-under-no-captaincy-pressure-reveals-adam-zampa-after-australia-beat-sri-lanka-647910">ODI World Cup: Pat Cummins is under no captaincy pressure, reveals Adam Zampa after Australia beat Sri Lanka</a>

Further, Ganguly lauded Team India and said, "Rohit (86) played superbly against Pakistan. India’s every department is doing well. Batting, bowling and fielding is firing together and at the right time."

Pakistan have a very poor Net Run Rate (NRR) --&nbsp;-0.137 -- following the India defeat. They will try to regroup and asses their mistakes before taking on five-time winners Australia in match 18 of the ongoing edition at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20).&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led unbeaten India are at the top in the points table with three straight wins and will face Bangladesh in match 17 on Thursday (Oct 19) at the MCA Stadium in Pune.

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Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has slammed Babar Azam-led Pakistan's batting unit after their horror show versus arch-rivals India in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has slammed Babar Azam-led Pakistan's batting unit after their horror show versus arch-rivals India in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. The sides met each other on Saturday (Oct 14) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad where India opted to bowl first. From 155 for 2, Pakistan slipped to 191 all-out in 42.5 overs with Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 19), Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 35) and the likes of Md Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya claiming two wickets apiece. In reply, India made a mockery of the low total and chased it down in 30.3 overs to win by seven wickets in hand. After yet another defeat to India in ODI World Cup history, Ganguly has come hard at the Pakistani batters. He was quoted as saying by Times Now, "During our time, Pakistan was a different team, this is not the type of Pakistan team we used to play. This team can’t handle the pressure during the batting. It will be hard for Pakistan to come back in this World Cup with this batting." Also read: ODI World Cup: Pat Cummins is under no captaincy pressure, reveals Adam Zampa after Australia beat Sri Lanka Further, Ganguly lauded Team India and said, "Rohit (86) played superbly against Pakistan. India’s every department is doing well. Batting, bowling and fielding is firing together and at the right time." Pakistan have a very poor Net Run Rate (NRR) -- -0.137 -- following the India defeat. They will try to regroup and asses their mistakes before taking on five-time winners Australia in match 18 of the ongoing edition at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday (Oct 20). Rohit Sharma-led unbeaten India are at the top in the points table with three straight wins and will face Bangladesh in match 17 on Thursday (Oct 19) at the MCA Stadium in Pune. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Ganguly slams Pak's batting unit, says 'will be hard' for them to come back post India drubbing

India's ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been in superb form in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 with the joint-most wickets (8) so far. The bowler had returned to the national side just ahead of the quadrennial tournament and has been India's gun weapon in all three games.

Talking to ICC's Digital Inside Tanvi Shah after India's seven-wicket win over Pakistan, Bumrah put aside any injury concerns or pressure of the job and said that he's doing what he wanted to do as a child.

"I don't really look at it as pressure or responsibility because as a child I wanted to be a cricketer,” Bumrah said in Ahmedabad.

"I wanted to play for India. I wanted to do the difficult job. I wanted to make my team win. So that is what I'm doing.

"I've learned a lot over the years. I tried to use my experience, I've played a lot in this country,” he added.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-unmissable-watch-afghanistan-dressing-room-erupts-in-joy-with-historic-win-over-england-647350">UNMISSABLE! Afghanistan dressing room erupts in joy with historic win over England</a>

"So you use my experience and try to help the team as much as you can because if you think about pressure and expectation and responsibility, you won't be able to perform with that baggage of expectation.”

The bowler was named Player of the Match for his 2/19 in the low-scoring game against Pakistan and was the chief architect of Men in Green's collapse.

Bumrah bowled Pak's Mohammad Rizwan and Shadab Khan on sensational deliveries as others around him chipped in to bring the opposition from 155/2 to 191 all-out.

Chasing the target, India never looked troubled as skipper Rohit Sharma led the charge with a 63-ball 86 and the Men in Blue mauled down the target with almost 20 overs to spare.

India had previously beaten Australia and Afghanistan in Chennai and New Delhi, respectively, before conquering Pakistan. They next play against Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune.

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India's ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been in superb form in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 with the joint-most wickets (8) so far. The bowler had returned to the national side just ahead of the quadrennial tournament and has been India's gun weapon in all three games.

India's ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been in superb form in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 with the joint-most wickets (8) so far. The bowler had returned to the national side just ahead of the quadrennial tournament and has been India's gun weapon in all three games. Talking to ICC's Digital Inside Tanvi Shah after India's seven-wicket win over Pakistan, Bumrah put aside any injury concerns or pressure of the job and said that he's doing what he wanted to do as a child. "I don't really look at it as pressure or responsibility because as a child I wanted to be a cricketer,” Bumrah said in Ahmedabad. "I wanted to play for India. I wanted to do the difficult job. I wanted to make my team win. So that is what I'm doing. "I've learned a lot over the years. I tried to use my experience, I've played a lot in this country,” he added. Also Watch: UNMISSABLE! Afghanistan dressing room erupts in joy with historic win over England "So you use my experience and try to help the team as much as you can because if you think about pressure and expectation and responsibility, you won't be able to perform with that baggage of expectation.” The bowler was named Player of the Match for his 2/19 in the low-scoring game against Pakistan and was the chief architect of Men in Green's collapse. Bumrah bowled Pak's Mohammad Rizwan and Shadab Khan on sensational deliveries as others around him chipped in to bring the opposition from 155/2 to 191 all-out. Chasing the target, India never looked troubled as skipper Rohit Sharma led the charge with a 63-ball 86 and the Men in Blue mauled down the target with almost 20 overs to spare. India had previously beaten Australia and Afghanistan in Chennai and New Delhi, respectively, before conquering Pakistan. They next play against Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: India bowler Jasprit Bumrah puts aside injury and pressure concerns after Pakistan win

Pakistan losing to India didn’t sit well with anyone from that part of the world. While several experts came down hard on the batters, exposing the deficiencies in their technique, others questioned the overall functioning of the PCB. Former captain and legend Wasim Akram is one of them, who, during a chat show in Pakistan, made shocking revelations that seem to turn quite a few heads around.

Speaking on A-Sports following Pakistan’s record eighth loss to India in World Cup history in Ahmedabad the past week, Akram sounded concerned about Pakistan players' fitness, claiming that there is no fitness test or the famous Yo-Yo test for these players.

Drawing comparisons with how fit and polished their counterparts are on the field, Akram said, "I am concerned about the fitness of these players.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-latif-tears-into-pakistan-cricket-setup-blames-political-vendetta-aggressive-changes-for-poor-show-647447">Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show</a>

“Now, there is no fitness test. When Misbah was the coach and selector, he used to get the Yo-Yo Test and other tests done. A professional cricketer should undergo a fitness test at least once in a month. If you won't do this, you will face this (defeat vs India)," Akram said on a Pakistan TV show.

He even went on to say that because of ongoing tensions behind the scenes in PCB, there was a lot of unrest in the dressing room, resulting in them failing to deliver on the big day.

Asked to bat first after losing the toss, Pakistan got off to a good start. Though both openers got out inside the first 12 overs, Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steadied the ship with an 82-run stand. However, the Indian bowlers inflicted crucial blows, triggering a collapse&nbsp;and reducing them from 155 for two to 191 all out.

Rohit Sharma scored a stunning 86 as he guided India to a seven-wicket win in Ahmedabad.

"PCB has seen three chairmen in the last three years. It created a scare among the team members and management about whether they would be part of the next series or not. From 154 for two and then 191 all out was really, really disappointing," the former Pakistan captain added.

<h2>Rashid Latif bashes Pakistan Cricket</h2>

Another former captain, Rashid Latif, bashed the Pakistan Cricket on the same grounds, saying the political vendetta and aggressive changes over the past year led to this situation.

“The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express.&nbsp;

“In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket.

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Pakistan losing to India didn’t sit well with anyone from that part of the world. While several experts came down hard on the batters, exposing the deficiencies in their technique, others questioned the overall functioning of the PCB.

Pakistan losing to India didn’t sit well with anyone from that part of the world. While several experts came down hard on the batters, exposing the deficiencies in their technique, others questioned the overall functioning of the PCB. Former captain and legend Wasim Akram is one of them, who, during a chat show in Pakistan, made shocking revelations that seem to turn quite a few heads around. Speaking on A-Sports following Pakistan’s record eighth loss to India in World Cup history in Ahmedabad the past week, Akram sounded concerned about Pakistan players' fitness, claiming that there is no fitness test or the famous Yo-Yo test for these players. Drawing comparisons with how fit and polished their counterparts are on the field, Akram said, "I am concerned about the fitness of these players.” ALSO READ: Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show “Now, there is no fitness test. When Misbah was the coach and selector, he used to get the Yo-Yo Test and other tests done. A professional cricketer should undergo a fitness test at least once in a month. If you won't do this, you will face this (defeat vs India)," Akram said on a Pakistan TV show. He even went on to say that because of ongoing tensions behind the scenes in PCB, there was a lot of unrest in the dressing room, resulting in them failing to deliver on the big day. Asked to bat first after losing the toss, Pakistan got off to a good start. Though both openers got out inside the first 12 overs, Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steadied the ship with an 82-run stand. However, the Indian bowlers inflicted crucial blows, triggering a collapse and reducing them from 155 for two to 191 all out. Rohit Sharma scored a stunning 86 as he guided India to a seven-wicket win in Ahmedabad. "PCB has seen three chairmen in the last three years. It created a scare among the team members and management about whether they would be part of the next series or not. From 154 for two and then 191 all out was really, really disappointing," the former Pakistan captain added. Rashid Latif bashes Pakistan Cricket Another former captain, Rashid Latif, bashed the Pakistan Cricket on the same grounds, saying the political vendetta and aggressive changes over the past year led to this situation. “The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express. “In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Cup: No fitness, Yo-Yo tests for Pakistan players: Wasim Akram's shocking revelation turns heads

Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage.

“The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express.&nbsp;

“In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket.&nbsp;

From being 155 for two at one stage to getting all out on 191 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Pakistan lost momentum and thus the match later on. For India, skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front, hitting a magnificent 86, including six sixes, helping India cross the line with relative ease.

Although Pakistan Captain Babar Azam completed his fifty and Muhammad Rizwan contributed with 49 in the middle overs, none of the batters could put pressure back on the Indian bowlers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-we-got-to-move-on-quickly-but-players-must-enjoy-the-win-first-trott-on-afgs-famous-win-over-england-647374">CWC: We got to move on quickly but players must enjoy the win first: Trott on AFG’s famous win over England</a>

“The selectors should also be blamed because there was no vision. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali were not in contention a year ago, and suddenly, they are in the ODI World Cup.

“Saud and Abdullah had never played a high-intensity game, and you cannot blame them. Fakhar Zaman was our main player for the past three years and all of a sudden, he was dropped. I agree that he was not in good form, but in my opinion, he should have batted at No 4 to face Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav,” Latif bashed the selection criteria.

<h2>Shaheen looked fatigued; Pakistan lacked mental toughness</h2>

The bowlers looked fatigued, starting with Shaheen, who is said to be carrying an injury. Besides him, Haris Rauf failed to terrorize batters with his steamy pace the way he does in the shortest format. And as per Rashid, with Indians being so good against the spin, they could have hit Shadab Khan with their eyes closed.

“I don’t know if Shaheen Afridi is injured, but he looked fatigued. Haris Rauf will have to learn how to hit the good lengths consistently. In the T20Is, the four-over spell can make you a superstar by firing all the cylinders in 24 balls. But in the ODIs and Test cricket, you need that mental toughness that was lacking in Ahmedabad,” the Pakistan veteran added.

“Shadab Khan’s spells against the minor teams are exceptional but when it comes to the top five side, he struggles. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and David Miller face the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Rashid Khan and Tabraiz Shamsi in the nets; they will pick Shadab with their eyes shut,” Rashid slammed Pakistan team’s vice-captain.&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage.

Former Pakistan captain and veteran keeper-batter Rashid Latif bashed the current situation of Pakistan cricket and its board in the country. Following their loss to India for the record eighth time in World Cup history in Ahmedabad by seven wickets, Latif pointed fingers towards political vendetta and aggressive changes in the top brass as reasons behind the team’s yet another failure on the big stage. “The continuous political interference is ruining Pakistan cricket,” Rashid Latif said, as quoted in The Indian Express. “In the past twelve months, we have seen three different persons heading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We have seen Ramiz Raja, then Najam Sethi, and now Zaka Ashraf is at the helm. And not to forget, in the same timeline, we have had five selectors as well. Mohammad Wasim, Micky Arthur, Shahid Afridi, Haroon Rasheed, and now Inzamam-ul-Haq,” Latif added while talking about the reason behind the fall of Pakistan Cricket. From being 155 for two at one stage to getting all out on 191 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Pakistan lost momentum and thus the match later on. For India, skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front, hitting a magnificent 86, including six sixes, helping India cross the line with relative ease. Although Pakistan Captain Babar Azam completed his fifty and Muhammad Rizwan contributed with 49 in the middle overs, none of the batters could put pressure back on the Indian bowlers. ALSO READ: CWC: We got to move on quickly but players must enjoy the win first: Trott on AFG’s famous win over England “The selectors should also be blamed because there was no vision. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali were not in contention a year ago, and suddenly, they are in the ODI World Cup. “Saud and Abdullah had never played a high-intensity game, and you cannot blame them. Fakhar Zaman was our main player for the past three years and all of a sudden, he was dropped. I agree that he was not in good form, but in my opinion, he should have batted at No 4 to face Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav,” Latif bashed the selection criteria. Shaheen looked fatigued; Pakistan lacked mental toughness The bowlers looked fatigued, starting with Shaheen, who is said to be carrying an injury. Besides him, Haris Rauf failed to terrorize batters with his steamy pace the way he does in the shortest format. And as per Rashid, with Indians being so good against the spin, they could have hit Shadab Khan with their eyes closed. “I don’t know if Shaheen Afridi is injured, but he looked fatigued. Haris Rauf will have to learn how to hit the good lengths consistently. In the T20Is, the four-over spell can make you a superstar by firing all the cylinders in 24 balls. But in the ODIs and Test cricket, you need that mental toughness that was lacking in Ahmedabad,” the Pakistan veteran added. “Shadab Khan’s spells against the minor teams are exceptional but when it comes to the top five side, he struggles. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and David Miller face the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Rashid Khan and Tabraiz Shamsi in the nets; they will pick Shadab with their eyes shut,” Rashid slammed Pakistan team’s vice-captain. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rashid Latif tears into Pakistan cricket setup, blames political vendetta, aggressive changes for poor show

India skipper Rohit Sharma played a brilliant knock of 86 runs off just 63 ball as India beat Pakistan by seven wickets in the ODI World Cup 2023 on October 14 in Ahmedabad. The innings saw Rohit hitting six fours and six sixes and three off them came against Haris Rauf - one of the fastest bowlers in the tournament.

Out of the three sixes Rohit hit to Rauf, two came in one over — one over mid-on on a length ball and second a slice on the off side on a full ball in the ninth over of the innings. Rohit completed his fifty off just 36 balls and was asked by on-field umpire Murray Erasmus that how does he hit such big sixes.

Rohit, being witty, showed the umpires his muscles and the moment was captured during the live broadcast as well. After the game, Sharma's deputy Hardik Pandya asked Rohit about the gesture to which the skipper replied: "The umpire asked me about how am I able to hit such big sixes. Is there anything in your bat? So, I told him all the power is in muscles," laughed Rohit.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-sachin-tendulkar-trolls-shoaib-akhtar-after-india-beat-pakistan-647149">Sachin Tendulkar TROLLS Shoaib Akhtar after India beat Pakistan</a>

Rohit was batting beautifully before being done by a slower one from Shaheen Afridi as he got out with India just 36 runs short of the 192-run target. Talking about his batting, Rohit acknowledged that he missed out on a hundred.

"I just wanted to play my shots. I have been trying to play like this since last couple of years and the wicket was good so I just wanted to play the shots. I know I missed out on a hundred," added Rohit.

During his knock, Rohit hit six sixes, becoming only the third batter in ODI history to cross the 300-six mark. The Indian skipper now has 303 sixes to his name in 246 innings of 254 ODIs he has played, with only West Indies' Chris Gayle (331) and Pakistan's Shahid Afridi (351) ahead of him.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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India skipper Rohit Sharma played a brilliant knock of 86 runs off just 63 ball as India beat Pakistan by seven wickets in the ODI World Cup 2023 on October 14 in Ahmedabad.

India skipper Rohit Sharma played a brilliant knock of 86 runs off just 63 ball as India beat Pakistan by seven wickets in the ODI World Cup 2023 on October 14 in Ahmedabad. The innings saw Rohit hitting six fours and six sixes and three off them came against Haris Rauf - one of the fastest bowlers in the tournament. Out of the three sixes Rohit hit to Rauf, two came in one over — one over mid-on on a length ball and second a slice on the off side on a full ball in the ninth over of the innings. Rohit completed his fifty off just 36 balls and was asked by on-field umpire Murray Erasmus that how does he hit such big sixes. Rohit, being witty, showed the umpires his muscles and the moment was captured during the live broadcast as well. After the game, Sharma's deputy Hardik Pandya asked Rohit about the gesture to which the skipper replied: "The umpire asked me about how am I able to hit such big sixes. Is there anything in your bat? So, I told him all the power is in muscles," laughed Rohit. Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar TROLLS Shoaib Akhtar after India beat Pakistan Rohit was batting beautifully before being done by a slower one from Shaheen Afridi as he got out with India just 36 runs short of the 192-run target. Talking about his batting, Rohit acknowledged that he missed out on a hundred. "I just wanted to play my shots. I have been trying to play like this since last couple of years and the wicket was good so I just wanted to play the shots. I know I missed out on a hundred," added Rohit. During his knock, Rohit hit six sixes, becoming only the third batter in ODI history to cross the 300-six mark. The Indian skipper now has 303 sixes to his name in 246 innings of 254 ODIs he has played, with only West Indies' Chris Gayle (331) and Pakistan's Shahid Afridi (351) ahead of him. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: India skipper Rohit Sharma shares reason for showing muscles to umpire in game vs Pakistan

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed the national men's cricket team for the 'humiliating' defeat they suffered at the hands of arch-rivals India at the ongoing ODI World Cup on Saturday (Oct 14).&nbsp;

Talking about India's performance on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said the Men-in-Blue beat Pakistan like they were a team of kids and claimed he couldn't bear to watch it.

"Pakistan's humiliation is in front of us. India beat Pakistan like kids. I couldn't watch it. Rohit Sharma played ruthlessly," said Akhtar.

Akhtar, also known as "Rawalpindi Express" was full of praise for Rohit Sharma, adding that the Indian captain had taken his revenge. &nbsp;

"The kind of innings he played, he humiliated Pakistan’s bowling attack. He took revenge for the last two years when he didn’t get many runs. Good to see Rohit Sharma back, he did right to smash the bowlers. What’s the need to finish the game in the last overs and take it deep? Rohit hammered the bowlers,” said Akhtar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-from-being-hospitalised-to-getting-99-match-ready-heres-how-shubman-gill-got-fit-in-time-for-pak-game-647137">Also read |&nbsp;CWC: From being hospitalised to getting 99% match-ready, here's how Shubman Gill got fit in time for PAK game</a>

<h2>India can repeat history: Akhtar</h2>

The former speedster said he believed that India was on course to repeat the heroics of the 2011 World Cup when they went on to win the marquee tournament.&nbsp;

"I am beginning to believe India is about to repeat that history of 2011 World Cup. If they don't mess up in the semi-finals, India is really there to win this World Cup. So well done India. You have done wonderfully well. You destroyed us, demoralised us and decimated us," said Akhtar.

India&nbsp;won the toss in the high-voltage encounter and decided to field first. The decision, however, seemed to backfire initially as the pitch looked a belter for batting. Pakistani batters got off to a decent start as well and the contest was balanced up until the 30th over.&nbsp;

However, from thereon, the pair of Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah mounted their attack which left the Pakistani batters clueless as to what hit them. After the middle and lower-middle order capitulated, Pakistan bowed out by putting only 199 on board.&nbsp;

The target was never going to be enough against the stacked Indian batting lineup and Rohit Sharma came out with an ultra-positive mindset to bat Pakistan out of the contest in the first 10 overs. The Indian captain did just that as the two-time World Cup champions, easily coasted to victory.&nbsp;

After Saturday's victory, India have climbed atop the points table and look all set to lock in a spot in the semifinals. Meanwhile, Pakistan have a difficult assignment next, as they take on Australia at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed the national men's cricket team for the 'humiliating' defeat they suffered at the hands of arch-rivals India at the ongoing ODI World Cup on Saturday (Oct 14).

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed the national men's cricket team for the 'humiliating' defeat they suffered at the hands of arch-rivals India at the ongoing ODI World Cup on Saturday (Oct 14). Talking about India's performance on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said the Men-in-Blue beat Pakistan like they were a team of kids and claimed he couldn't bear to watch it. "Pakistan's humiliation is in front of us. India beat Pakistan like kids. I couldn't watch it. Rohit Sharma played ruthlessly," said Akhtar. Akhtar, also known as "Rawalpindi Express" was full of praise for Rohit Sharma, adding that the Indian captain had taken his revenge. "The kind of innings he played, he humiliated Pakistan’s bowling attack. He took revenge for the last two years when he didn’t get many runs. Good to see Rohit Sharma back, he did right to smash the bowlers. What’s the need to finish the game in the last overs and take it deep? Rohit hammered the bowlers,” said Akhtar. Also read | CWC: From being hospitalised to getting 99% match-ready, here's how Shubman Gill got fit in time for PAK game India can repeat history: Akhtar The former speedster said he believed that India was on course to repeat the heroics of the 2011 World Cup when they went on to win the marquee tournament. "I am beginning to believe India is about to repeat that history of 2011 World Cup. If they don't mess up in the semi-finals, India is really there to win this World Cup. So well done India. You have done wonderfully well. You destroyed us, demoralised us and decimated us," said Akhtar. India won the toss in the high-voltage encounter and decided to field first. The decision, however, seemed to backfire initially as the pitch looked a belter for batting. Pakistani batters got off to a decent start as well and the contest was balanced up until the 30th over. However, from thereon, the pair of Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah mounted their attack which left the Pakistani batters clueless as to what hit them. After the middle and lower-middle order capitulated, Pakistan bowed out by putting only 199 on board. The target was never going to be enough against the stacked Indian batting lineup and Rohit Sharma came out with an ultra-positive mindset to bat Pakistan out of the contest in the first 10 overs. The Indian captain did just that as the two-time World Cup champions, easily coasted to victory. After Saturday's victory, India have climbed atop the points table and look all set to lock in a spot in the semifinals. Meanwhile, Pakistan have a difficult assignment next, as they take on Australia at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'They beat us like kids': Former Pakistan player blasts team after 'humiliating' WC performance against India

Rohit Sharma announcing on the game eve that Shubman Gill is 99% match-ready cheered the whole cricket-loving nation up, but there was still something to read between the lines. The young batter, perhaps in the best form, was down with dengue fever ahead of India’s warm-up matches, remaining out of contention ever since. In the past week, Gill got hospitalised in Chennai, travelled to Ahmedabad, regained fitness, and played the match against Pakistan and ended up on the winning side.

But how did he get fit so early and return to the side for the marquee World Cup clash? As per the latest reports, his treatment at the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai should be credited for the same.&nbsp;

Going back to&nbsp;Rohit’s comments on Gill on the eve of the Pakistan match, Shubman was 100% fit, but the captain and the team management were concerned about things going wrong or a relapse of fever on the match-day, thus sticking with 99% claim instead of declaring him fit.&nbsp;

The bigger question at that point was how Gill would be able to endure 100 overs on the field, having recovered from the fever very recently. The right-handed batter had two days – Thursday and Friday to get back to the ground and prepare for the game.&nbsp;

<h2>From getting hospitalised to playing against Pakistan – Gill’s timeline</h2>

As first reported by Cricbuzz, Dr Sivarama Kannan - the physician responsible for Gill's speedy recovery, explained what happened behind the scenes and how he managed to recover so quickly.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-enjoy-playing-in-india-it-suits-my-style-englands-root-happy-to-return-to-form-as-afghanistan-tie-looms-647116">I enjoy playing in India, it suits my style: England’s Root happy to return to form as Afghanistan tie looms</a>

"A young person, an athlete, usually recovers well. He was fully cooperative and attentive. He obliged to whatever we said," the doctor said.&nbsp; 
 
"He came on the evening of the India-Australia match (October 8) and went back to the hotel the next evening. We had our male nurse, one person stationed there to give him timely injections and IV fluids,” the doctor added.

"He came to us on the second day of his illness... We didn't allow his body temperature to rise. We continuously administered medication to ensure that the fever didn't escalate, and we maintained his hydration to prevent the disease from taking hold."

"When the platelet count dropped below 50,000-60,000, we decided to admit him to the hospital. This was during India's match against Australia. The next morning, his platelet count dropped further, but by Monday evening, it began to increase, so we shifted him back to the hotel,” he added.

On Wednesday, Gill’s platelet count surpassed 100,000, which is when Dr. Kannan, discharged him.&nbsp;

"The following day, Tuesday, October 10, his platelet count increased, and it continued to rise on the subsequent day. By Wednesday morning, I informed him that he was fit to travel as his count had gone beyond one lakh. That afternoon, he left for Ahmedabad,” the doctor detailed.

Gill joined the Indian Team in Ahmedabad on Wednesday and trained for two days before the team management decided to play him at the last moment.&nbsp;

Gill scored four fours in his 11-ball 16-run-stay at the crease before he got caught in the point region.&nbsp;

India will next face Bangladesh in Pune on Thursday (Oct 19).

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Rohit Sharma announcing on the game eve that Shubman Gill is 99% match-ready cheered the whole cricket-loving nation up, but there was still something to read between the lines.

Rohit Sharma announcing on the game eve that Shubman Gill is 99% match-ready cheered the whole cricket-loving nation up, but there was still something to read between the lines. The young batter, perhaps in the best form, was down with dengue fever ahead of India’s warm-up matches, remaining out of contention ever since. In the past week, Gill got hospitalised in Chennai, travelled to Ahmedabad, regained fitness, and played the match against Pakistan and ended up on the winning side. But how did he get fit so early and return to the side for the marquee World Cup clash? As per the latest reports, his treatment at the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai should be credited for the same. Going back to Rohit’s comments on Gill on the eve of the Pakistan match, Shubman was 100% fit, but the captain and the team management were concerned about things going wrong or a relapse of fever on the match-day, thus sticking with 99% claim instead of declaring him fit. The bigger question at that point was how Gill would be able to endure 100 overs on the field, having recovered from the fever very recently. The right-handed batter had two days – Thursday and Friday to get back to the ground and prepare for the game. From getting hospitalised to playing against Pakistan – Gill’s timeline As first reported by Cricbuzz, Dr Sivarama Kannan - the physician responsible for Gill's speedy recovery, explained what happened behind the scenes and how he managed to recover so quickly. ALSO READ: I enjoy playing in India, it suits my style: England’s Root happy to return to form as Afghanistan tie looms "A young person, an athlete, usually recovers well. He was fully cooperative and attentive. He obliged to whatever we said," the doctor said. "He came on the evening of the India-Australia match (October 8) and went back to the hotel the next evening. We had our male nurse, one person stationed there to give him timely injections and IV fluids,” the doctor added. "He came to us on the second day of his illness... We didn't allow his body temperature to rise. We continuously administered medication to ensure that the fever didn't escalate, and we maintained his hydration to prevent the disease from taking hold." "When the platelet count dropped below 50,000-60,000, we decided to admit him to the hospital. This was during India's match against Australia. The next morning, his platelet count dropped further, but by Monday evening, it began to increase, so we shifted him back to the hotel,” he added. On Wednesday, Gill’s platelet count surpassed 100,000, which is when Dr. Kannan, discharged him. "The following day, Tuesday, October 10, his platelet count increased, and it continued to rise on the subsequent day. By Wednesday morning, I informed him that he was fit to travel as his count had gone beyond one lakh. That afternoon, he left for Ahmedabad,” the doctor detailed. Gill joined the Indian Team in Ahmedabad on Wednesday and trained for two days before the team management decided to play him at the last moment. Gill scored four fours in his 11-ball 16-run-stay at the crease before he got caught in the point region. India will next face Bangladesh in Pune on Thursday (Oct 19). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC: From being hospitalised to getting 99% match-ready, here's how Shubman Gill got fit in time

India skipper Rohit Sharma played another scintillating innings in the ODI World Cup 2023 and led the team to their third consecutive win in the ongoing tournament. Rohit, who had scored a record-breaking 131 in the previous match against Afghanistan, scored 63-ball 86 against Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. During his knock, Rohit hit six sixes, becoming only the third batter in ODI history to cross the 300-six mark.

The Indian skipper now has 303 sixes to his name in 246 innings of 254 ODIs he has played, with only West Indies' Chris Gayle and Pakistan's Shahid Afridi ahead of him. While Gayle has 331 sixes in 301 ODIs to his name, Afridi tops the list with 351 maximums in 398 ODIs he had played.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-former-skipper-wasim-akram-slams-babar-azam-for-accepting-virat-kohlis-jersey-after-loss-647070">Former skipper Wasim Akram slams Babar Azam for accepting Virat Kohli's jersey after loss</a>

Rohit also entered the top three six hitters in the ODI World Cup history. Sharma, who is playing in his third ODI World Cup, now has 34 sixes to his name in just 20 ODI World Cup innings. Only West Indies' Chris Gayle with 49 sixes (34 innings) and South Africa's AB de Villiers with 37 sixes (22 innings) are ahead of him.

Rohit is having a monstrous World Cup with the bat, having already scored 217 runs in three innings with one fifty and one hundred. Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan tops the most runs getters list in 2023 with 248 runs in three innings and New Zealand's Devon Conway is second ahead of Rohit with 229 runs in three innings.

In the last match against Afghanistan, Rohit also broke the record of most centuries in ODI World Cup history. The Indian skipper now has seven centuries in 20 ODI World Cup innings, one more than former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's tally of six tons in 45 ODI World Cup matches.

The 63-ball century against Afghanistan by Sharma was also the fastest hundred for India in ODI World Cups.

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India skipper Rohit Sharma played another scintillating innings in the ODI World Cup 2023 and led the team to their third consecutive win in the ongoing tournament.

India skipper Rohit Sharma played another scintillating innings in the ODI World Cup 2023 and led the team to their third consecutive win in the ongoing tournament. Rohit, who had scored a record-breaking 131 in the previous match against Afghanistan, scored 63-ball 86 against Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. During his knock, Rohit hit six sixes, becoming only the third batter in ODI history to cross the 300-six mark. The Indian skipper now has 303 sixes to his name in 246 innings of 254 ODIs he has played, with only West Indies' Chris Gayle and Pakistan's Shahid Afridi ahead of him. While Gayle has 331 sixes in 301 ODIs to his name, Afridi tops the list with 351 maximums in 398 ODIs he had played. Also Read: Former skipper Wasim Akram slams Babar Azam for accepting Virat Kohli's jersey after loss Rohit also entered the top three six hitters in the ODI World Cup history. Sharma, who is playing in his third ODI World Cup, now has 34 sixes to his name in just 20 ODI World Cup innings. Only West Indies' Chris Gayle with 49 sixes (34 innings) and South Africa's AB de Villiers with 37 sixes (22 innings) are ahead of him. Rohit is having a monstrous World Cup with the bat, having already scored 217 runs in three innings with one fifty and one hundred. Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan tops the most runs getters list in 2023 with 248 runs in three innings and New Zealand's Devon Conway is second ahead of Rohit with 229 runs in three innings. In the last match against Afghanistan, Rohit also broke the record of most centuries in ODI World Cup history. The Indian skipper now has seven centuries in 20 ODI World Cup innings, one more than former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's tally of six tons in 45 ODI World Cup matches. The 63-ball century against Afghanistan by Sharma was also the fastest hundred for India in ODI World Cups. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma joins Shahid Afridi and Chris Gayle in ELITE list with 86 vs Pakistan

Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi failed to bring his A-game against India in the marquee World Cup clash in Ahmedabad the other night. The left-arm seamer has troubled top-order batters, including Rohit, with his steamy in-swingers before but couldn’t deliver on the big day. Former India legend Ravi Shastri tore into his performance, bashing him up-side-and-down.

Afridi was wayward with his line and length, let alone troubling the batters with his stock deliveries. From Shubman Gill to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, everyone hammered him.&nbsp;

With Pakistan already defending a below-par total of 192 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, their bowlers needed to deliver from ball one, which was not the case. Instead, the Indian batters had put their backs against the wall with superb knocks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-count-my-slower-ball-as-a-spinners-slower-ball-bumrah-on-winning-man-of-the-match-award-against-pakistan-646887">I count my slower ball as a spinner’s slower ball: Bumrah on winning Man of the Match award against Pakistan</a>

In the absence of Naseem Shah, Hasan Ali got an extended run in the XI, proving a tad expensive despite picking Kohli’s wicket.&nbsp;

While speaking with the host broadcaster Star Sports after India’s seven-wicket win, Shastri bashed Shaheen for a failed show when his team needed him the most, saying he is no Wasim Akram and there’s nothing too special about him.

"When Naseem Shah is not playing, and this is the quality of spin... Shaheen Shah Afridi is no Wasim Akram. He is a good bowler with the new ball and can pick wickets, but there is nothing special about him. He is only a decent bowler. He's no big deal. You have to accept the truth," Shastri told Star Sports.

<h2>‘Shaheen should’ve taken a leaf out of Bumrah’s book’</h2>

Jasprit Bumrah was the protagonist of India’s bowling in Ahmedabad, picking two for 19 in seven overs, including a maiden, earning himself a Player of the Match award. Though others also chipped in with timely wickets, Bumrah’s slower delivery to dismiss Rizwan on 49 was the talking point of the game.

Noting that Afridi bowled his usual lengths and didn’t think of taking a leaf out of Bumrah’s book on how to dismiss well-settled batters on this pitch, Shastri’s old mate and legend Sunil Gavaskar slammed him, saying,&nbsp;

“Clearly Pakistan did not learn anything because it was only towards the end when Shaheen bowled that cutter that got Rohit out. We would have thought that they would bowl the cutter even with the new ball. It is not written anywhere that the new ball has to be bowled at a certain pace. You can change it, but nothing of those sorts was seen from the Pakistan bowlers," mentioned Gavaskar.

Meanwhile, with three wins in as many games, India is sitting at the top of the points table with a better NRR ahead of New Zealand.&nbsp;

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Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi failed to bring his A-game against India in the marquee World Cup clash in Ahmedabad the other night. The left-arm seamer has troubled top-order batters, including Rohit, with his steamy in-swingers before but couldn’t deliver on the big day.

Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi failed to bring his A-game against India in the marquee World Cup clash in Ahmedabad the other night. The left-arm seamer has troubled top-order batters, including Rohit, with his steamy in-swingers before but couldn’t deliver on the big day. Former India legend Ravi Shastri tore into his performance, bashing him up-side-and-down. Afridi was wayward with his line and length, let alone troubling the batters with his stock deliveries. From Shubman Gill to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, everyone hammered him. With Pakistan already defending a below-par total of 192 on a batting paradise at the Narendra Modi Stadium, their bowlers needed to deliver from ball one, which was not the case. Instead, the Indian batters had put their backs against the wall with superb knocks. ALSO READ: I count my slower ball as a spinner’s slower ball: Bumrah on winning Man of the Match award against Pakistan In the absence of Naseem Shah, Hasan Ali got an extended run in the XI, proving a tad expensive despite picking Kohli’s wicket. While speaking with the host broadcaster Star Sports after India’s seven-wicket win, Shastri bashed Shaheen for a failed show when his team needed him the most, saying he is no Wasim Akram and there’s nothing too special about him. "When Naseem Shah is not playing, and this is the quality of spin... Shaheen Shah Afridi is no Wasim Akram. He is a good bowler with the new ball and can pick wickets, but there is nothing special about him. He is only a decent bowler. He's no big deal. You have to accept the truth," Shastri told Star Sports. ‘Shaheen should’ve taken a leaf out of Bumrah’s book’ Jasprit Bumrah was the protagonist of India’s bowling in Ahmedabad, picking two for 19 in seven overs, including a maiden, earning himself a Player of the Match award. Though others also chipped in with timely wickets, Bumrah’s slower delivery to dismiss Rizwan on 49 was the talking point of the game. Noting that Afridi bowled his usual lengths and didn’t think of taking a leaf out of Bumrah’s book on how to dismiss well-settled batters on this pitch, Shastri’s old mate and legend Sunil Gavaskar slammed him, saying, “Clearly Pakistan did not learn anything because it was only towards the end when Shaheen bowled that cutter that got Rohit out. We would have thought that they would bowl the cutter even with the new ball. It is not written anywhere that the new ball has to be bowled at a certain pace. You can change it, but nothing of those sorts was seen from the Pakistan bowlers," mentioned Gavaskar. Meanwhile, with three wins in as many games, India is sitting at the top of the points table with a better NRR ahead of New Zealand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Cup: He is good but nothing special about him: Ravi Shastri slams Shaheen Afridi following India bashing

India continued their dominance over Pakistan in the ODI World Cups with a seven-wicket win over arch-rivals on October 14 in Ahmedabad. The highly-anticipated match turned out to be a bit anti-climatic after Pakistan suffered a collapse to get all out on 191&nbsp;despite being 155/2 at one point.

Former Pakistan player and 1992 World Cup winner Ramiz Raja wasn't too happy with Babar Azam's team and blasted them for not being able to compete. Ramiz made the comments on The ICC Review podcast after Pakistan's eighth successive loss against India in the ODI World Cup history.

"This should hurt Pakistan because they weren't able to compete,” Ramiz said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-didnt-hear-dil-dil-pakistan-pakistans-mickey-arthur-slams-bcci-in-bizarre-manner-646939">'Didn't hear Dil Dil Pakistan...', Pakistan's Mickey Arthur slams BCCI in bizarre manner</a>

"When you're playing against India obviously it's such an environment where it's 99 per cent India fans and crowds, you're obviously overwhelmed. I understand all of that."

"But Babar Azam has led this side for a good four or five years, so you've got to rise to the occasion. If you can't win, then at least compete. Pakistan weren't able to do that,” he added.

The former cricketer believed that Pakistan were under pressure because of their past record against India in the World Cups.

"It's a reality and Pakistan have got to do something about it. They can't be termed as 'chokers' against India because that's not a great tag to have. Somehow it's a mental block, it's a skill block as well," he said.

The cricketer turned commentator acknowledged that the loss is going to hurt Pakistan and that the team should be brutally honest in the meetings going forward.

"It's going to hurt them. It's a scarring, it's a pasting, it's a battering and they've been outpaced and outplayed in all the three departments,” Ramiz added.

"Babar Azam and the senior players will have to rally around some of the young kids and have got to find an answer."

"They've got to be brutally honest in those team meetings. I think that is where Pakistan need to start. On the drawing board saying that our spin has been struggling, we shouldn't get out after scoring 50 or a 49, and what were the tailenders doing?,” he further said.

Chasing a modest 192, India skipper Rohit Sharma led the charge, scoring 63-ball 86 as India reached the target with almost 20 overs to spare and seven wickets in hand.

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India continued their dominance over Pakistan in the ODI World Cups with a seven-wicket win over arch-rivals on October 14 in Ahmedabad. The highly-anticipated match turned out to be a bit anti-climatic after Pakistan suffered a collapse to get all out on 191 despite being 155/2 at one point.

India continued their dominance over Pakistan in the ODI World Cups with a seven-wicket win over arch-rivals on October 14 in Ahmedabad. The highly-anticipated match turned out to be a bit anti-climatic after Pakistan suffered a collapse to get all out on 191 despite being 155/2 at one point. Former Pakistan player and 1992 World Cup winner Ramiz Raja wasn't too happy with Babar Azam's team and blasted them for not being able to compete. Ramiz made the comments on The ICC Review podcast after Pakistan's eighth successive loss against India in the ODI World Cup history. "This should hurt Pakistan because they weren't able to compete,” Ramiz said. Also Read: 'Didn't hear Dil Dil Pakistan...', Pakistan's Mickey Arthur slams BCCI in bizarre manner "When you're playing against India obviously it's such an environment where it's 99 per cent India fans and crowds, you're obviously overwhelmed. I understand all of that." "But Babar Azam has led this side for a good four or five years, so you've got to rise to the occasion. If you can't win, then at least compete. Pakistan weren't able to do that,” he added. The former cricketer believed that Pakistan were under pressure because of their past record against India in the World Cups. "It's a reality and Pakistan have got to do something about it. They can't be termed as 'chokers' against India because that's not a great tag to have. Somehow it's a mental block, it's a skill block as well," he said. The cricketer turned commentator acknowledged that the loss is going to hurt Pakistan and that the team should be brutally honest in the meetings going forward. "It's going to hurt them. It's a scarring, it's a pasting, it's a battering and they've been outpaced and outplayed in all the three departments,” Ramiz added. "Babar Azam and the senior players will have to rally around some of the young kids and have got to find an answer." "They've got to be brutally honest in those team meetings. I think that is where Pakistan need to start. On the drawing board saying that our spin has been struggling, we shouldn't get out after scoring 50 or a 49, and what were the tailenders doing?,” he further said. Chasing a modest 192, India skipper Rohit Sharma led the charge, scoring 63-ball 86 as India reached the target with almost 20 overs to spare and seven wickets in hand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: 'If you can't win, then...,' Former player Ramiz Raja blasts Pakistan after loss vs India

India skipper Rohit Sharma lauded the bowlers for setting up the ODI World Cup 2023 game against Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. After Indian bowlers restricted Pakistan on 191, India won by seven wickets with almost 20 overs in hand. With the win, India also extended its win record to 8-0 against Pakistan in the ODI World Cups.

"There is no doubt about it that the bowlers set up the game for us again today. It was a great effort," said Rohit to the broadcasters after the match.

"I don't think it was a 190 pitch. At one stage we were looking at 270-280 but they came back and showed grit and that says a lot about the guys," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-if-you-cant-win-then-former-player-ramiz-raja-blasts-pakistan-after-loss-vs-india-647026">'If you can't win, then...,' Former player Ramiz Raja blasts Pakistan after loss vs India</a>

All of India's main five bowlers took two wickets apiece as Pakistan suffered a dramatic collapse, going from 155/2 to 191 all-out. Rohit said his job as a captain was to track who troubles whom.

"My job as a captain is important there to read the conditions and who is the best guy to trouble the batsman.

"We pride ourselves on whoever gets the ball doing the job for us. It can be someone's day. It can't be everybody's every day," added Rohit.

The win against Pakistan was India's third in three matches in the 2023 World Cup and the skipper said that it's looking good but they don't want to get too excited.

"All in all it is looking good, and I want to keep my fingers crossed. We don't want to get too excited or get too low, we want to stay balanced."

"I've said it quite a few times now, this was an opposition we wanted to play against because we want to play quality opposition," said Rohit.

"Every opposition we come up against in this tournament is quality and can beat you on any particular day," he concluded.

India next play Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune.

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India skipper Rohit Sharma lauded the bowlers for setting up the ODI World Cup 2023 game against Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. After Indian bowlers restricted Pakistan on 191, India won by seven wickets with almost 20 overs in hand.

India skipper Rohit Sharma lauded the bowlers for setting up the ODI World Cup 2023 game against Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. After Indian bowlers restricted Pakistan on 191, India won by seven wickets with almost 20 overs in hand. With the win, India also extended its win record to 8-0 against Pakistan in the ODI World Cups. "There is no doubt about it that the bowlers set up the game for us again today. It was a great effort," said Rohit to the broadcasters after the match. "I don't think it was a 190 pitch. At one stage we were looking at 270-280 but they came back and showed grit and that says a lot about the guys," he said. Also Read: 'If you can't win, then...,' Former player Ramiz Raja blasts Pakistan after loss vs India All of India's main five bowlers took two wickets apiece as Pakistan suffered a dramatic collapse, going from 155/2 to 191 all-out. Rohit said his job as a captain was to track who troubles whom. "My job as a captain is important there to read the conditions and who is the best guy to trouble the batsman. "We pride ourselves on whoever gets the ball doing the job for us. It can be someone's day. It can't be everybody's every day," added Rohit. The win against Pakistan was India's third in three matches in the 2023 World Cup and the skipper said that it's looking good but they don't want to get too excited. "All in all it is looking good, and I want to keep my fingers crossed. We don't want to get too excited or get too low, we want to stay balanced." "I've said it quite a few times now, this was an opposition we wanted to play against because we want to play quality opposition," said Rohit. "Every opposition we come up against in this tournament is quality and can beat you on any particular day," he concluded. India next play Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: India skipper Rohit Sharma doesn't want to get TOO EXCITED with win against Pakistan

The dust is yet to settle on the India-Pakistan ODI World Cup contest as both teams played for the eighth time on Saturday. India won the contest at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by seven wickets in a one-sided contest where both teams showcased great sporting spirits both on and off the field. One such moment was spotted after the match when Virat Kohli and Babar Azam were seen together while the former gifted a signed T-shirt.

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FANBOY MOMENT FOR BABAR AZAM....!! 
 
Babar asks for a signed from Virat Kohli and Virat gives it.<a href="https://t.co/Caq3GoQoaV">pic.twitter.com/Caq3GoQoaV</a>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1713216505138262051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Virat gifts signed T-Shirt</h2>

After the match, players were seen on the field trying to wrap up before leaving the field. Former India skipper Virat Kohli and current Pakistan captain Babar Azam were around the corner wearing respective training gear. Virat then approached Babar to sign and gift a T-Shirt to him while the cameras spotted them both. The modern-day greats for their sides were also seen having a mini-conversation before they left.

<h2>What happened in the match?</h2>

Ahmedabad was painted blue on Saturday (Oct 14) as Team India won the ODI World Cup contest against arch-rivals Pakistan to maintain their perfect record. Led by Rohit Sharma,&nbsp;the Men in Blue extended their winning streak to 8-0 after another dominant display in the ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The seven-wicket win also sees India maintain their perfect start to the ODI World Cup as they have won all their three matches while Pakistan suffered their first defeat of the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-lackluster-mitchell-marsh-vows-to-correct-mistakes-as-cornered-australia-eye-comeback-646761">World Cup: Lackluster Mitchell Marsh vows to correct mistakes as cornered Australia eye comeback</a>

After a horrible batting collapse by Pakistan, India were tasked to chase 192 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium as skipper Rohit led from the front. The Indian skipper was unfortunate to miss out on a hundred as he scored 86 runs in front of 120,000 fans in Ahmedabad. His innings which consisted of 6 sixes and 6 fours set the tone for the Indian team as they manufactured a comprehensive win.

India will next take the field on Thursday (Oct 19) against Bangladesh as they push for their fourth win in Pune. Pakistan will take on five-time champions Australia in Chennai on Friday as both teams look to bounce back after defeats.

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The dust is yet to settle on the India-Pakistan ODI World Cup contest as both teams played for the eighth time on Saturday. India won the contest at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by seven wickets in a one-sided contest where both teams showcased great sporting spirits both on and off the field.

The dust is yet to settle on the India-Pakistan ODI World Cup contest as both teams played for the eighth time on Saturday. India won the contest at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by seven wickets in a one-sided contest where both teams showcased great sporting spirits both on and off the field. One such moment was spotted after the match when Virat Kohli and Babar Azam were seen together while the former gifted a signed T-shirt. FANBOY MOMENT FOR BABAR AZAM....!! Babar asks for a signed from Virat Kohli and Virat gives it.pic.twitter.com/Caq3GoQoaV — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 14, 2023 × Virat gifts signed T-Shirt After the match, players were seen on the field trying to wrap up before leaving the field. Former India skipper Virat Kohli and current Pakistan captain Babar Azam were around the corner wearing respective training gear. Virat then approached Babar to sign and gift a T-Shirt to him while the cameras spotted them both. The modern-day greats for their sides were also seen having a mini-conversation before they left. What happened in the match? Ahmedabad was painted blue on Saturday (Oct 14) as Team India won the ODI World Cup contest against arch-rivals Pakistan to maintain their perfect record. Led by Rohit Sharma, the Men in Blue extended their winning streak to 8-0 after another dominant display in the ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The seven-wicket win also sees India maintain their perfect start to the ODI World Cup as they have won all their three matches while Pakistan suffered their first defeat of the tournament. ALSO READ | World Cup: Lackluster Mitchell Marsh vows to correct mistakes as cornered Australia eye comeback After a horrible batting collapse by Pakistan, India were tasked to chase 192 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium as skipper Rohit led from the front. The Indian skipper was unfortunate to miss out on a hundred as he scored 86 runs in front of 120,000 fans in Ahmedabad. His innings which consisted of 6 sixes and 6 fours set the tone for the Indian team as they manufactured a comprehensive win. India will next take the field on Thursday (Oct 19) against Bangladesh as they push for their fourth win in Pune. Pakistan will take on five-time champions Australia in Chennai on Friday as both teams look to bounce back after defeats. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Virat Kohli gifts Babar Azam signed T-shirt after India vs Pakistan World Cup contest