Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri held a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

Virat Kohli: No fatigue due to IPL, World Cup conditions not a challenge

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack.&nbsp;

"You need a skipper who backs you and believes in your ability to shine on the big stage. You think we could have been so successful if Kohli bhai had not given us the freedom to attack? I don't think so," Kuldeep told PTI in an interview.&nbsp;

Kuldeep, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders, was badly let down by the batting-friendly conditions at Eden Gardens in this year's IPL as he returned with just four wickets from nine matches before being dropped by his franchise in the business end of the tournament.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old said he is looking forward to put the IPL disappointment behind with a spectacular performance in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30.&nbsp;

"IPL is very different than World Cup. There are players who have done well in IPL but have struggled to make a mark for the country. I've matured as a bowler and by no means it will affect my performance in the World Cup," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

"It's (T20) such a format, you may have a bad day where you're hit for runs. I'm not a magician who will do well in every match. You cannot say I will take so many wickets."&nbsp;

By his own standard, an average of 71.50 in IPL is something he would look to forget. &nbsp;

"If I'm not getting wickets it does not mean I'm not bowling well. Now I play as a mature cricketer and think more about the team," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

Kuldeep also spoke about the recent controversy about his comments on Mahendra Singh Dhoni that sometimes the former skipper "goes wrong" with his tips.&nbsp;

"How can a youngster like me make such comments on a senior member of the side? My comments had been misinterpreted by media to create a controversy," he said.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that his tips have been invaluable not only for me but for the entire team. His presence behind the stumps makes our job easy and nobody can change that fact. We wouldn't have been half as effective without his inputs."&nbsp;

Andre Russell was a terror in the IPL with his batting exploits and single-handedly turned KKR's fortunes before they failed to make the playoffs.&nbsp;

Kuldeep said he has learnt a few tricks which he would employ against the West Indian in the World Cup.&nbsp;

"He has some problems facing a turning ball. If the ball is turning, then he has a weakness. It's not just this, I've different plans to unleash against him in the World Cup. I know how to stop him and I'm very clear in my mind," he signed off. &nbsp;

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack.

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack. "You need a skipper who backs you and believes in your ability to shine on the big stage. You think we could have been so successful if Kohli bhai had not given us the freedom to attack? I don't think so," Kuldeep told PTI in an interview. Kuldeep, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders, was badly let down by the batting-friendly conditions at Eden Gardens in this year's IPL as he returned with just four wickets from nine matches before being dropped by his franchise in the business end of the tournament. The 24-year-old said he is looking forward to put the IPL disappointment behind with a spectacular performance in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30. "IPL is very different than World Cup. There are players who have done well in IPL but have struggled to make a mark for the country. I've matured as a bowler and by no means it will affect my performance in the World Cup," Kuldeep said. "It's (T20) such a format, you may have a bad day where you're hit for runs. I'm not a magician who will do well in every match. You cannot say I will take so many wickets." By his own standard, an average of 71.50 in IPL is something he would look to forget. "If I'm not getting wickets it does not mean I'm not bowling well. Now I play as a mature cricketer and think more about the team," Kuldeep said. Kuldeep also spoke about the recent controversy about his comments on Mahendra Singh Dhoni that sometimes the former skipper "goes wrong" with his tips. "How can a youngster like me make such comments on a senior member of the side? My comments had been misinterpreted by media to create a controversy," he said. "There is no doubt that his tips have been invaluable not only for me but for the entire team. His presence behind the stumps makes our job easy and nobody can change that fact. We wouldn't have been half as effective without his inputs." Andre Russell was a terror in the IPL with his batting exploits and single-handedly turned KKR's fortunes before they failed to make the playoffs. Kuldeep said he has learnt a few tricks which he would employ against the West Indian in the World Cup. "He has some problems facing a turning ball. If the ball is turning, then he has a weakness. It's not just this, I've different plans to unleash against him in the World Cup. I know how to stop him and I'm very clear in my mind," he signed off.

'IPL is very different than World Cup,' says Kuldeep Yadav on his performance

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhirs-comments-on-indias-best-wicketkeeper-upset-ms-dhoni-fans-206683&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwily-iDnaDiAhWLsI8KHZ-SDIsQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1NQVcv3ve3mMO2pX37iwFj">Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir</a> on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer.

"I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar need more support. You may argue that India has two fast bowling all-rounders in Hardik (Pandya) and Vijay Shankar but I am not convinced," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/gautam-gambhir-voter-id-case-atishi-to-record-her-statement-matter-fixed-for-may-31-218487&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwily-iDnaDiAhWLsI8KHZ-SDIsQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1bxjJ8EH-Gmi0YzgkVoJ0F">Gambhir</a>, as saying.

Bumrah has been the key weapon in the bowling scheme of things for India and Gambhir reckons the bowler will once again be the trump card for India and his form will be crucial for its chances in the World Cup.

"The wickets are going to be very flat and it's going to be hot. So how Jasprit Bumrah bowls will decide where India reaches because it's going to be a high-scoring World Cup," Gambhir said.

The selectors did not pick Ambati Rayudu in the fifteen-member team.

Chief selector MSK Prasad at the time of announcing the squad had said Vijay Shankar will most likely play at number four position, with KL Rahul being the backup option for that spot.

However, Gambhir is of the view that Rahul is the best-suited batsman to play at number four position, considering his technique.

"I feel Rahul is best suited for No.4 spot because he has got the technique, he has got the ability to win you games. I know that is not the position you would have preferred, but I have always believed one thing you only put yourself in the playing XI ultimately it is the team management who decide," Gambhir said.

Gambhir played a key role in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-among-favourites-to-win-world-cup-says-kapil-dev-217038&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiuyKO-naDiAhXEfX0KHRpnA38QFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jZ_LnIo30U85PZFp09nVS">India's World Cup</a> triumph in 2011 as he scored a knock of 97 runs in the finals against Sri Lanka.

The player said that Australia has one of the best bowling attacks going into the World Cup this time around.

The left-handed batsman also praised the tournament's format this time as the World Cup will be played between the top ten teams.

The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with every team taking on each other before the semi-finals stage.

"With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith coming back, they're probably the side to beat. In any ICC tournament, if you beat Australia, you're right up there because they know how to play big matches," Gambhir said.

"This will be a well-contested tournament as all the teams play each other. This format will give us the real world champion and I think ICC should stick to this format for all future World Cups," he added.

India will take&nbsp;on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup.

The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;India will open its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

India's&nbsp;fifteen-member squad for World Cup:

Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah , Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer. "I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer. "I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar need more support. You may argue that India has two fast bowling all-rounders in Hardik (Pandya) and Vijay Shankar but I am not convinced," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Gambhir, as saying. Bumrah has been the key weapon in the bowling scheme of things for India and Gambhir reckons the bowler will once again be the trump card for India and his form will be crucial for its chances in the World Cup. "The wickets are going to be very flat and it's going to be hot. So how Jasprit Bumrah bowls will decide where India reaches because it's going to be a high-scoring World Cup," Gambhir said. The selectors did not pick Ambati Rayudu in the fifteen-member team. Chief selector MSK Prasad at the time of announcing the squad had said Vijay Shankar will most likely play at number four position, with KL Rahul being the backup option for that spot. However, Gambhir is of the view that Rahul is the best-suited batsman to play at number four position, considering his technique. "I feel Rahul is best suited for No.4 spot because he has got the technique, he has got the ability to win you games. I know that is not the position you would have preferred, but I have always believed one thing you only put yourself in the playing XI ultimately it is the team management who decide," Gambhir said. Gambhir played a key role in India's World Cup triumph in 2011 as he scored a knock of 97 runs in the finals against Sri Lanka. The player said that Australia has one of the best bowling attacks going into the World Cup this time around. The left-handed batsman also praised the tournament's format this time as the World Cup will be played between the top ten teams. The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with every team taking on each other before the semi-finals stage. "With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith coming back, they're probably the side to beat. In any ICC tournament, if you beat Australia, you're right up there because they know how to play big matches," Gambhir said. "This will be a well-contested tournament as all the teams play each other. This format will give us the real world champion and I think ICC should stick to this format for all future World Cups," he added. India will take on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup. The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. India's fifteen-member squad for World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah , Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

Indian World Cup team lacks one more quality fast bowler: Gautam Gambhir

The goose that lays the golden eggs in Indian cricket is finally going to have a say in the running of the game in the country with a national players' association inching closer to becoming a reality.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has traditionally abhorred the idea of a players' association, regarding it completely unnecessary and potentially troublesome.

On rare occasions when such a body was mooted, top players usually stayed away as joining it would mean incurring the wrath of the world's richest cricket board.

Things changed two years ago when the country's top court put a Committee of Administrators in charge following the board's failure to implement administrative reforms suggested by a panel led by former chief justice R.M. Lodha.

One of the key recommendations of the Lodha committee was to form a players' union and subsequently a steering committee was formed to facilitate the process.

Former India batsman Anshuman Gaekwad, a member of the committee, said the paperwork was nearly complete and before long <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-exceptionally-open-to-ideas-vettori-216524&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjc2d2EpoviAhW363MBHXHTDssQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3IVf4svofoGt8_GPesDc5h">Virat Kohli</a> and his India teammates would have a voice in things that affect their career.

"We're going to have an association very soon. It's very important for the players," Gaekwad told Reuters by telephone.

A gutsy opening batsman who played 40 tests between 1975-85, Gaekwad regretted not having such players' body during his cricketing days.

"We tried it twice in the 1970s but it did not work out," he added.

BCCI Chief Executive Rahul Johri did not immediately respond to call and message seeking comment.

A stronger effort was made in early 2000 when Indian Cricket Players' Association (ICPA) was floated with former captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi as its president.

But the ICPA too failed to attract the top players and fizzled out.

"It did not work out because the BCCI was against it," former India opener Arun Lal, who was the ICPA vice-president, told Reuters from Kolkata.

"The players were scared of the board, which is only natural. It's hardly expected of a young cricketer to do something if the secretary of his state association warns him against it. The board always had an antagonistic approach to a players' association. They saw it like a trade union movement", Lal said.

Lal, who played 16 tests for India, said a players' body was integral to the game across the globe.

"More than anything else, the cricketers then become responsible for their game.&nbsp;At the moment, a cricketer is just a player. But once an association comes into being, he's a partner in taking the game forward'',&nbsp;the 63-year-old added.

"Players then become more responsible and aware of their duty to retain cricket's more than 200 years of legacy and not bring disrepute to the game", he said.

The Federation of International Cricketers Associations (FICA) welcomed the possibility of having an Indian players' body in the coming months.

"The existence of a body that can collectively represent the players in India, the world's biggest cricket economy, is an important step forward for the game," the global players' representative body said in a statement.

"It is critical that players are involved in the development and governance of any association set up to collectively represent them, in order to ensure its effectiveness," FICA executive chairman Tony Irish said.

"We would welcome a player-established Indian cricketers' association, which meets our membership and minimum standards requirements, into FICA and as part of the global collective of the world's cricketers", Irish said.

The goose that lays the golden eggs in Indian cricket is finally going to have a say in the running of the game in the country with a national players' association inching closer to becoming a reality.

The goose that lays the golden eggs in Indian cricket is finally going to have a say in the running of the game in the country with a national players' association inching closer to becoming a reality. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has traditionally abhorred the idea of a players' association, regarding it completely unnecessary and potentially troublesome. On rare occasions when such a body was mooted, top players usually stayed away as joining it would mean incurring the wrath of the world's richest cricket board. Things changed two years ago when the country's top court put a Committee of Administrators in charge following the board's failure to implement administrative reforms suggested by a panel led by former chief justice R.M. Lodha. One of the key recommendations of the Lodha committee was to form a players' union and subsequently a steering committee was formed to facilitate the process. Former India batsman Anshuman Gaekwad, a member of the committee, said the paperwork was nearly complete and before long Virat Kohli and his India teammates would have a voice in things that affect their career. "We're going to have an association very soon. It's very important for the players," Gaekwad told Reuters by telephone. A gutsy opening batsman who played 40 tests between 1975-85, Gaekwad regretted not having such players' body during his cricketing days. "We tried it twice in the 1970s but it did not work out," he added. BCCI Chief Executive Rahul Johri did not immediately respond to call and message seeking comment. A stronger effort was made in early 2000 when Indian Cricket Players' Association (ICPA) was floated with former captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi as its president. But the ICPA too failed to attract the top players and fizzled out. "It did not work out because the BCCI was against it," former India opener Arun Lal, who was the ICPA vice-president, told Reuters from Kolkata. "The players were scared of the board, which is only natural. It's hardly expected of a young cricketer to do something if the secretary of his state association warns him against it. The board always had an antagonistic approach to a players' association. They saw it like a trade union movement", Lal said. Lal, who played 16 tests for India, said a players' body was integral to the game across the globe. "More than anything else, the cricketers then become responsible for their game. At the moment, a cricketer is just a player. But once an association comes into being, he's a partner in taking the game forward'', the 63-year-old added. "Players then become more responsible and aware of their duty to retain cricket's more than 200 years of legacy and not bring disrepute to the game", he said. The Federation of International Cricketers Associations (FICA) welcomed the possibility of having an Indian players' body in the coming months. "The existence of a body that can collectively represent the players in India, the world's biggest cricket economy, is an important step forward for the game," the global players' representative body said in a statement. "It is critical that players are involved in the development and governance of any association set up to collectively represent them, in order to ensure its effectiveness," FICA executive chairman Tony Irish said. "We would welcome a player-established Indian cricketers' association, which meets our membership and minimum standards requirements, into FICA and as part of the global collective of the world's cricketers", Irish said.

Kohli & Co go from mute golden goose to vocal stakeholders as Players' Association is on the cards

India have dropped three places to fifth in the expanded men's Twenty20 International team rankings while Pakistan have consolidated their top position, according to the latest list issued by the ICC.&nbsp;

The ICC Friday unveiled an expanded T20I team rankings table with 80 teams who will now be able to gauge their progress in a format, recognised by the world body as the vehicle for the growth of the game.

Pakistan, ICC T20 World Cup champions in 2009, are now on 286 points while the next four teams are within two points of each other -- South Africa (262), England (261), Australia (261) and India (260).

South Africa and India have swapped positions two and five in the expanded table, whose launch coincides with the annual rankings update in which series results from 2015-16 are removed and outcomes from 2016-17 and 2017-18 are weighted at 50 per cent.

In other significant changes, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka have moved up one place each to seventh and eighth positions, respectively, with the West Indies going down to ninth position.&nbsp;

In what will be big news for their passionate fans, Nepal have moved from 14th to 11th position while Namibia have grabbed the 20th position.

Teams like Austria, Botswana, Luxembourg and Mozambique are among the sides figuring in the first men's T20I ranking table that features all members meeting the criteria of having played six matches against other ICC members since May 2016.

The move to expand the table follows ICC's decision last year that all men's T20 matches between members from January 1 2019 will be classified as internationals.&nbsp;

As with the ICC Women's T20I team rankings, which were launched in October 2018, teams will need to play six matches against other teams in the previous three to four years to remain in the rankings table.

The qualification process for the ICC men's T20 World Cup, which is underway, includes 58 T20I matches across five regional finals is likely to mean significant movements on the rankings over the coming months.&nbsp;

The first final was held in Papua New Guinea last month whilst the Africa final in Uganda (19-24 May), the Europe final in Guernsey (15-19 June), the Asia final in Singapore (22-28 July) and the Americas final in the USA (19-25 August) are still to come.

Six of these teams will join hosts UAE, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland and Zimbabwe in the global qualifier in what will be another chance to improve their standings on the table as they try to qualify for the ICC men's T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia.

India have dropped three places to fifth in the expanded men's Twenty20 International team rankings while Pakistan have consolidated their top position, according to the latest list issued by the ICC.

India have dropped three places to fifth in the expanded men's Twenty20 International team rankings while Pakistan have consolidated their top position, according to the latest list issued by the ICC. The ICC Friday unveiled an expanded T20I team rankings table with 80 teams who will now be able to gauge their progress in a format, recognised by the world body as the vehicle for the growth of the game. Pakistan, ICC T20 World Cup champions in 2009, are now on 286 points while the next four teams are within two points of each other -- South Africa (262), England (261), Australia (261) and India (260). South Africa and India have swapped positions two and five in the expanded table, whose launch coincides with the annual rankings update in which series results from 2015-16 are removed and outcomes from 2016-17 and 2017-18 are weighted at 50 per cent. In other significant changes, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka have moved up one place each to seventh and eighth positions, respectively, with the West Indies going down to ninth position. In what will be big news for their passionate fans, Nepal have moved from 14th to 11th position while Namibia have grabbed the 20th position. Teams like Austria, Botswana, Luxembourg and Mozambique are among the sides figuring in the first men's T20I ranking table that features all members meeting the criteria of having played six matches against other ICC members since May 2016. The move to expand the table follows ICC's decision last year that all men's T20 matches between members from January 1 2019 will be classified as internationals. As with the ICC Women's T20I team rankings, which were launched in October 2018, teams will need to play six matches against other teams in the previous three to four years to remain in the rankings table. The qualification process for the ICC men's T20 World Cup, which is underway, includes 58 T20I matches across five regional finals is likely to mean significant movements on the rankings over the coming months. The first final was held in Papua New Guinea last month whilst the Africa final in Uganda (19-24 May), the Europe final in Guernsey (15-19 June), the Asia final in Singapore (22-28 July) and the Americas final in the USA (19-25 August) are still to come. Six of these teams will join hosts UAE, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland and Zimbabwe in the global qualifier in what will be another chance to improve their standings on the table as they try to qualify for the ICC men's T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia.

India slip to 5th spot in expanded ICC T20 team rankings

The Supreme Court on Tuesday&nbsp;has ordered Amrapali Group to disclose by tomorrow all payments made to cricketer MS Dhoni who has sued the realty firm over unpaid dues when he was the brand ambassador of the company.

The 37-year-old former Indian captain, last month,&nbsp;took the debt-ridden real estate group to court, seeking Rs. 40 crore due to him for his services.&nbsp;

Dhoni endorsed Amrapali from 2009 to 2016 and appeared in several advertisements.&nbsp;

Amrapali Group ran into financial difficulties and 46,000 homebuyers, who have already paid for their respective properties, moved the apex court seeking court’s intervention for the handover of properties.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday has ordered Amrapali Group to disclose by tomorrow all payments made to cricketer MS Dhoni who has sued the realty firm over unpaid dues when he was the brand ambassador of the company.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday has ordered Amrapali Group to disclose by tomorrow all payments made to cricketer MS Dhoni who has sued the realty firm over unpaid dues when he was the brand ambassador of the company. The 37-year-old former Indian captain, last month, took the debt-ridden real estate group to court, seeking Rs. 40 crore due to him for his services. Dhoni endorsed Amrapali from 2009 to 2016 and appeared in several advertisements. Amrapali Group ran into financial difficulties and 46,000 homebuyers, who have already paid for their respective properties, moved the apex court seeking court’s intervention for the handover of properties.

On MS Dhoni’s plea, SC asks Amrapali to disclose details of payments

The BCCI acting President CK Khanna on Saturday met India captain Virat Kohli and wished him luck for the upcoming <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS_fn4ovDhAhXBOI8KHfRMBqIQFjAIegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1-WOfAxVtZtu8U9p0gG0ja">World Cup</a>.

Khanna, who was forced to skip the day's CoA meeting due to personal issues, met Kohli at the Bangalore team hotel.

"I wished him all the luck and I am pretty confident that we will win the World Cup under Virat's leadership," Khanna said after meeting Kohli.

He sidestepped on the issue of team selection debate though.

"The selectors have picked the best 15 and it's our job to back the team," said Khanna, who didn't wish to comment on Delhi man Rishabh Pant's omission.

The BCCI acting President CK Khanna on Saturday met India captain Virat Kohli and wished him luck for the upcoming World Cup. Khanna, who was forced to skip the day's CoA meeting due to personal issues, met Kohli at the Bangalore team hotel.

The BCCI acting President CK Khanna on Saturday met India captain Virat Kohli and wished him luck for the upcoming World Cup. Khanna, who was forced to skip the day's CoA meeting due to personal issues, met Kohli at the Bangalore team hotel. "I wished him all the luck and I am pretty confident that we will win the World Cup under Virat's leadership," Khanna said after meeting Kohli. He sidestepped on the issue of team selection debate though. "The selectors have picked the best 15 and it's our job to back the team," said Khanna, who didn't wish to comment on Delhi man Rishabh Pant's omission.

BCCI acting president CK Khanna meets Virat Kohli, wishes him luck for the World Cup

India Women’s cricket team has made all the right noises in the recent past but it still lags behind in terms of benefits, outreach and popularity to the men's game.

And now, with men's Indian Premier League (IPL) having entered its 12th edition and its popularity growing in leaps and bounds with each passing year, Indian women's ODI captain Mithali Raj proposed to have such a tournament for her side also.&nbsp;

In an exclusive to WION, Mithali talked about the growing clamour for a women's IPL in the country, saying "it is the right time to start the tournament."

However, a year or so earlier, Mithali was the one who said on the record that such a tournament is not viable because there isn't perhaps a large enough talent pool of Indian women players. 
&nbsp; 
When asked does that still holds true, Mithali said, after the 2018 Women's Twenty20 Asia Cup, things have changed for the women players in the country.&nbsp;

"I was asked about the IPL 3-4 years ago. Back then I felt that we as women's cricket in India still need to grow, still need to spread that awareness among people. Attract people to follow women's cricket."

"But now after the world cup, after the one-day world cup, I have seen how people are so interested to follow the national side, the performance of the team and even the profiling of each player has improved since then. And I only think that we should start, even though we don't have a pool of players. "

The 36-year-old women cricketer said, that such tournament will help create a base.

"We should start may be as three or four teams and try to have a double leg because it will create a base and in another two-three season we might improve and increase the participation of team," she added.

Mithali is the highest run-scorer in women's international cricket and the only female cricketer to surpass the 6,000 run mark in WODIs.&nbsp;

During the 2018 Women's Asia Cup, she also became the first player from India (either male or female) to score 2000 runs in T20Is, and also became the first woman cricketer to reach 2000 WT20I runs.

And after achieving all such record, Raj felt that the women's side is not getting its worth and hence she proposed a mixed gender cricket match.

When asked why such where this idea came from, Raj said," It is all about having a gender equality platform and we should be starting from sports arena and cricket is something, where for a long period people associate men's cricket when they talk about the sport. "

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"But since the 2-3 years after the World Cup, the way the India women's cricket team has done, now the conversation tilts towards women's cricket too."

Raj also added that the cricket sport should not be seen as one gender's property.

"I think this is important that this as a sport should be seen in our country and not men's cricket or women's cricket. And this is also a good concept I feel because a lot of general people, when they travel on the streets, see a lot of boys playing but never do you get to see a girl playing along with them."

When asked if that is even possible, Raj was quick to say 'yes' because "as professional cricketers, we train along with boys at the nets or we have some matches playing against them."

"So I think it is a great thing to have a gender-mixed match and promote gender equality for young kids, where boys and girls are playing together for the same team."

India Women’s cricket team has made all the right noises in the recent past but it still lags behind in terms of benefits, outreach and popularity to the men's game.

India Women’s cricket team has made all the right noises in the recent past but it still lags behind in terms of benefits, outreach and popularity to the men's game. And now, with men's Indian Premier League (IPL) having entered its 12th edition and its popularity growing in leaps and bounds with each passing year, Indian women's ODI captain Mithali Raj proposed to have such a tournament for her side also. In an exclusive to WION, Mithali talked about the growing clamour for a women's IPL in the country, saying "it is the right time to start the tournament." However, a year or so earlier, Mithali was the one who said on the record that such a tournament is not viable because there isn't perhaps a large enough talent pool of Indian women players. When asked does that still holds true, Mithali said, after the 2018 Women's Twenty20 Asia Cup, things have changed for the women players in the country. "I was asked about the IPL 3-4 years ago. Back then I felt that we as women's cricket in India still need to grow, still need to spread that awareness among people. Attract people to follow women's cricket." "But now after the world cup, after the one-day world cup, I have seen how people are so interested to follow the national side, the performance of the team and even the profiling of each player has improved since then. And I only think that we should start, even though we don't have a pool of players. " The 36-year-old women cricketer said, that such tournament will help create a base. "We should start may be as three or four teams and try to have a double leg because it will create a base and in another two-three season we might improve and increase the participation of team," she added. Mithali is the highest run-scorer in women's international cricket and the only female cricketer to surpass the 6,000 run mark in WODIs. During the 2018 Women's Asia Cup, she also became the first player from India (either male or female) to score 2000 runs in T20Is, and also became the first woman cricketer to reach 2000 WT20I runs. And after achieving all such record, Raj felt that the women's side is not getting its worth and hence she proposed a mixed gender cricket match. When asked why such where this idea came from, Raj said," It is all about having a gender equality platform and we should be starting from sports arena and cricket is something, where for a long period people associate men's cricket when they talk about the sport. " × "But since the 2-3 years after the World Cup, the way the India women's cricket team has done, now the conversation tilts towards women's cricket too." Raj also added that the cricket sport should not be seen as one gender's property. "I think this is important that this as a sport should be seen in our country and not men's cricket or women's cricket. And this is also a good concept I feel because a lot of general people, when they travel on the streets, see a lot of boys playing but never do you get to see a girl playing along with them." When asked if that is even possible, Raj was quick to say 'yes' because "as professional cricketers, we train along with boys at the nets or we have some matches playing against them." "So I think it is a great thing to have a gender-mixed match and promote gender equality for young kids, where boys and girls are playing together for the same team."

Right time to start women's IPL tournament: ODI captain Mithali Raj to WION

Indian Premier League (IPL) side Mumbai have signed South African pace bowler Beuran Hendricks as an injury replacement for West Indian Alzarri Joseph for the remainder of the season, the IPL franchise said on Tuesday.

Joseph, who was a replacement for injured New Zealand pacer Adam Milne, had a stellar IPL debut this month when he recorded figures of six wickets for 12 runs against Hyderabad, the best bowling figures in the competition's history.

However, he failed to build on that performance and did not pick up a single wicket in his next two matches, leaking runs at a rate around 10 per over.

Joseph, 22, dislocated his right arm while fielding in the five-wicket loss to Rajasthan over the weekend.

Hendricks, who previously played for IPL side Punjab in 2014 and 2015, has played 10 Twenty20 internationals for South Africa, picking up 16 wickets.

Mumbai, who are third in the standings, next play Chennai away on Friday.

Indian Premier League (IPL) side Mumbai have signed South African pace bowler Beuran Hendricks as an injury replacement for West Indian Alzarri Joseph for the remainder of the season, the IPL franchise said on Tuesday.

Indian Premier League (IPL) side Mumbai have signed South African pace bowler Beuran Hendricks as an injury replacement for West Indian Alzarri Joseph for the remainder of the season, the IPL franchise said on Tuesday. Joseph, who was a replacement for injured New Zealand pacer Adam Milne, had a stellar IPL debut this month when he recorded figures of six wickets for 12 runs against Hyderabad, the best bowling figures in the competition's history. However, he failed to build on that performance and did not pick up a single wicket in his next two matches, leaking runs at a rate around 10 per over. Joseph, 22, dislocated his right arm while fielding in the five-wicket loss to Rajasthan over the weekend. Hendricks, who previously played for IPL side Punjab in 2014 and 2015, has played 10 Twenty20 internationals for South Africa, picking up 16 wickets. Mumbai, who are third in the standings, next play Chennai away on Friday.

IPL 2019: Mumbai sign Beuran Hendricks to replace injured pacer Alzarri Joseph

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have booked a place for themselves in India's squad for the ICC World Cup despite their objectionable comments on women during a TV chat show.

The two were at the receiving end from every corner.&nbsp;

After being put under a provisional suspension by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), both the players produced impressive shows on the comeback and are going really strong in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). &nbsp;

As Rahul turned 27 Thursday, Pandya posted a special birthday wish for the batsman, referring him as 'brother for life'&nbsp;

"Brothers for life!!!!! No matter what!!! Love u bro @rahulkl happy birthday. Let's make it our year," Pandya captioned a photograph with Rahul on Instagram.

In IPL, Rahul has so far made 387 runs in nine matches which included a century. The Punjab opener is currently the second leading run-scorer in the IPL 2019.

Hardik, on the other hand, has amassed 186 runs in eight matches and picked up seven wickets, including a man of the match award for his performance against Chennai.&nbsp;

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have booked a place for themselves in India's squad for the ICC World Cup despite their objectionable comments on women during a TV chat show.

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have booked a place for themselves in India's squad for the ICC World Cup despite their objectionable comments on women during a TV chat show. The two were at the receiving end from every corner. After being put under a provisional suspension by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), both the players produced impressive shows on the comeback and are going really strong in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As Rahul turned 27 Thursday, Pandya posted a special birthday wish for the batsman, referring him as 'brother for life' "Brothers for life!!!!! No matter what!!! Love u bro @rahulkl happy birthday. Let's make it our year," Pandya captioned a photograph with Rahul on Instagram. In IPL, Rahul has so far made 387 runs in nine matches which included a century. The Punjab opener is currently the second leading run-scorer in the IPL 2019. Hardik, on the other hand, has amassed 186 runs in eight matches and picked up seven wickets, including a man of the match award for his performance against Chennai.

Hardik Pandya to KL Rahul: 'Brothers for life, no matter what'

The BCCI Selection Committee, along with India captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri, met in Mumbai on Monday to select <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-india-vs-australia-whose-squad-is-better-210751">India's 15-member squad for the ICC World Cup</a> to be played in England and Wales.

In a press conference, BCCI announced that Virat Kohli will be the captain and Rohit Sharma the vice-captain of Team India. Shikhar Dhawan is also in the squad.

KL Rahul and<a href="Vijay Shankar is three dimensional, looking him at no 4: MSK Prasad after naming India's World Cup squad"> Vijay Shankar are the big surprises in the squad announcement</a>. He might be considered for the no.4&nbsp;spot.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked. However, in a big surprise, Rishabh Pant has not been included. His chances of getting a cup-up were very high.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side.&nbsp;Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.&nbsp;

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India’s squad for the ICC <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> announced: Virat Kohli (Capt), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MSD (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Shami
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The biggest surprise is the no 4 batsman as there were many contenders for the spot including KL Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Ambati Rayadu and Rishabh Pant.

Shreyas Iyer and Vijay Shankar are also the players who were on the consideration list for the spot.&nbsp;

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For the uninitiated, the team announced for the World Cup are provisional selections and can be changed till May 23rd without ICC permission.

The cricket tournament will start from May 30 to July 14, with India's first&nbsp;game to be played against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

The BCCI Selection Committee, along with India captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri, met in Mumbai on Monday to select India's 15-member squad for the ICC World Cup to be played in England and Wales.

The BCCI Selection Committee, along with India captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri, met in Mumbai on Monday to select India's 15-member squad for the ICC World Cup to be played in England and Wales. In a press conference, BCCI announced that Virat Kohli will be the captain and Rohit Sharma the vice-captain of Team India. Shikhar Dhawan is also in the squad. KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar are the big surprises in the squad announcement. He might be considered for the no.4 spot. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked. However, in a big surprise, Rishabh Pant has not been included. His chances of getting a cup-up were very high. Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners. India’s squad for the ICC #CWC19 announced: Virat Kohli (Capt), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MSD (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Shami — BCCI (@BCCI) April 15, 2019 × The biggest surprise is the no 4 batsman as there were many contenders for the spot including KL Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Ambati Rayadu and Rishabh Pant. Shreyas Iyer and Vijay Shankar are also the players who were on the consideration list for the spot. × For the uninitiated, the team announced for the World Cup are provisional selections and can be changed till May 23rd without ICC permission. The cricket tournament will start from May 30 to July 14, with India's first game to be played against South Africa on June 5.

KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik in, Rishabh Pant out as India's ICC World Cup squad announced

Ambati Rayudu has "ordered 3d glasses" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-and-dinesh-karthik-in-rishabh-pant-out-as-indias-icc-world-cup-squad-announced-210575">to watch the World Cup</a>, a day after he was pipped by the "three-dimensional" Vijay Shankar in the Indian squad for the showpiece.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-shankar-is-three-dimensional-looking-him-at-no-4-msk-prasad-after-naming-indias-world-cup-squad-210607">All-rounder Shankar was preferred</a> over the 33-year-old Rayudu for the contentious number four spot in India's World Cup squad.

"Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup," Rayudu wrote on his twitter handle Tuesday.

Disappointment knocked on Rayudu's door when his name was left out of the squad just a few months after captain Virat Kohli had more or less earmarked him for the number four position.

"We did give a few more chances to Rayudu but Vijay Shankar gives three dimensions. He can bat, if the conditions are overcast, he can bowl, plus he is a fielder. We are looking at Vijay Shankar as a No. 4," chief selector MSK Prasad said Tuesday, justifying his selection.&nbsp;

Prasad's view was seconded by former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who called Shankar a "very handy cricketer".&nbsp;

On the other hand, in his quest to ramp up his limited-overs game, Rayudu had even given up on white ball cricket but he has struggled to be consistent.

Three poor outings against Australia in the five-match ODI home series seemed to have put paid to his hopes. The experienced batsman also could not light up the Indian Premier League in a way he would have liked.

While he enjoys an average of 47.05 in 55 ODIs, the three failures against Australia hurt him.

The batsman was the team's number four since Asia Cup last year. Between then and the home series against Australia, Rayudu scored one century and four fifties. A 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paved the way for India's victory after they were tottering at one stage.

He played only two ODIs during the tour of Australia, but was the highest run-getter for India in the ODIs on the tour of New Zealand, with 190 runs in five innings at an average of 63.33 and a strike rate of 82.25.&nbsp;

But the performances were not enough for him to ensure a ticket to the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

Ambati Rayudu has "ordered 3d glasses" to watch the World Cup, a day after he was pipped by the "three-dimensional" Vijay Shankar in the Indian squad for the showpiece.

Ambati Rayudu has "ordered 3d glasses" to watch the World Cup, a day after he was pipped by the "three-dimensional" Vijay Shankar in the Indian squad for the showpiece. All-rounder Shankar was preferred over the 33-year-old Rayudu for the contentious number four spot in India's World Cup squad. "Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup," Rayudu wrote on his twitter handle Tuesday. Disappointment knocked on Rayudu's door when his name was left out of the squad just a few months after captain Virat Kohli had more or less earmarked him for the number four position. "We did give a few more chances to Rayudu but Vijay Shankar gives three dimensions. He can bat, if the conditions are overcast, he can bowl, plus he is a fielder. We are looking at Vijay Shankar as a No. 4," chief selector MSK Prasad said Tuesday, justifying his selection. Prasad's view was seconded by former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who called Shankar a "very handy cricketer". On the other hand, in his quest to ramp up his limited-overs game, Rayudu had even given up on white ball cricket but he has struggled to be consistent. Three poor outings against Australia in the five-match ODI home series seemed to have put paid to his hopes. The experienced batsman also could not light up the Indian Premier League in a way he would have liked. While he enjoys an average of 47.05 in 55 ODIs, the three failures against Australia hurt him. The batsman was the team's number four since Asia Cup last year. Between then and the home series against Australia, Rayudu scored one century and four fifties. A 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paved the way for India's victory after they were tottering at one stage. He played only two ODIs during the tour of Australia, but was the highest run-getter for India in the ODIs on the tour of New Zealand, with 190 runs in five innings at an average of 63.33 and a strike rate of 82.25. But the performances were not enough for him to ensure a ticket to the United Kingdom.

Ordered 3D glasses to watch ICC World Cup: Ambati Rayudu after exclusion

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is looking to gain confidence from his match-winning performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 50-over World Cup, the 25-year-old has said.

Pandya, who missed India's limited-overs home series against Australia in February and March with a lower back injury, returned for the Mumbai IPL campaign and has averaged 46.50 in eight matches so far, remaining not out four times.

The 25-year-old was named in India's 15-man World Cup squad on Monday as the team's first choice all-rounder in the showpiece event in England and Wales.

"It's pretty important to have confidence, the World Cup is a big stage and this is the first time I'm playing," Pandya told reporters after helping Mumbai beat visitors Bangalore on Monday.

"I was out of the game for some time... Everyone has setbacks and I wanted to improve, I got some time for my body as well. The time I spent out (of the game) is helping me right now because I'm in a good mind space."

Needing 172 to beat Bangalore, Pandya walked in at 129-4 and smashed 37 not out off 16 balls to give Mumbai their fifth win of the season.

"For me it was important to keep hitting the ball well," he said. "I've been doing this (finishing games) for four years now. That's my role in any team I play for.

"It's all about playing according to the situation if you're smart enough you will get the result you desire."

Pandya said he hoped the pitches in England had not changed since their 2017 Champions Trophy campaign when India finished as runners-up. He averaged 52.50 with the bat in that tournament with a strike rate close to 200.

"The last time we went to England a lot of people said it would be cold with swinging conditions but when we went there... I've never played on flat wickets like that before," Pandya said.

"Depending on the conditions, and if we have the same situation like we did in the Champions Trophy, then it will be helpful."

India begin their bid for a third World Cup title against South Africa in Southampton on June 5.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is looking to gain confidence from his match-winning performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 50-over World Cup, the 25-year-old has said.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is looking to gain confidence from his match-winning performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 50-over World Cup, the 25-year-old has said. Pandya, who missed India's limited-overs home series against Australia in February and March with a lower back injury, returned for the Mumbai IPL campaign and has averaged 46.50 in eight matches so far, remaining not out four times. The 25-year-old was named in India's 15-man World Cup squad on Monday as the team's first choice all-rounder in the showpiece event in England and Wales. "It's pretty important to have confidence, the World Cup is a big stage and this is the first time I'm playing," Pandya told reporters after helping Mumbai beat visitors Bangalore on Monday. "I was out of the game for some time... Everyone has setbacks and I wanted to improve, I got some time for my body as well. The time I spent out (of the game) is helping me right now because I'm in a good mind space." Needing 172 to beat Bangalore, Pandya walked in at 129-4 and smashed 37 not out off 16 balls to give Mumbai their fifth win of the season. "For me it was important to keep hitting the ball well," he said. "I've been doing this (finishing games) for four years now. That's my role in any team I play for. "It's all about playing according to the situation if you're smart enough you will get the result you desire." Pandya said he hoped the pitches in England had not changed since their 2017 Champions Trophy campaign when India finished as runners-up. He averaged 52.50 with the bat in that tournament with a strike rate close to 200. "The last time we went to England a lot of people said it would be cold with swinging conditions but when we went there... I've never played on flat wickets like that before," Pandya said. "Depending on the conditions, and if we have the same situation like we did in the Champions Trophy, then it will be helpful." India begin their bid for a third World Cup title against South Africa in Southampton on June 5.

IPL heroics boost Hardik Pandya's confidence ahead of World Cup

Rookie swing bowler Abu Jayed earned a spot in Bangladesh's World Cup squad while batsman Mosaddek Hossain also made the cut in their 15-man squad for the showpiece tournament in England and Wales.

Jayed, who has played only five tests and three Twenty20 internationals, was picked following his performances in the two-test series in New Zealand where he finished as the visitors' leading wicket-taker.

Hossain, a middle-order batsman who can bowl off-spin, last played for Bangladesh in the Asia Cup in September. He was not in the squad when they played Zimbabwe, West Indies and New Zealand across formats.

Three recovering players -- left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, all-rounder Mahmudullah and paceman Rubel Hossain -- were also named in the squad.

Mahmudullah recently started training after suffering a shoulder injury while Mustafizur has not fully recovered from an ankle problem. Rubel is recovering from a side strain.

All 10 participating teams will have to submit their 15-member squads by April 23, while injury replacements can be named until May 23.

Bangladesh begin their campaign against South Africa at the Oval in London on June 2.

Squad: Mashrafe Mortaza (captain), Tamim Iqbal, Liton Das, Soumya Sarkar, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Mahmudullah, Shakib Al Hasan (vice captain), Mohammad Mithun, Sabbir Rahaman, Mosaddek Hossain, Mohammad Saifuddin, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rubel Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Abu Jayed

Rookie swing bowler Abu Jayed earned a spot in Bangladesh's World Cup squad while batsman Mosaddek Hossain also made the cut in their 15-man squad for the showpiece tournament in England and Wales.

Rookie swing bowler Abu Jayed earned a spot in Bangladesh's World Cup squad while batsman Mosaddek Hossain also made the cut in their 15-man squad for the showpiece tournament in England and Wales. Jayed, who has played only five tests and three Twenty20 internationals, was picked following his performances in the two-test series in New Zealand where he finished as the visitors' leading wicket-taker. Hossain, a middle-order batsman who can bowl off-spin, last played for Bangladesh in the Asia Cup in September. He was not in the squad when they played Zimbabwe, West Indies and New Zealand across formats. Three recovering players -- left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, all-rounder Mahmudullah and paceman Rubel Hossain -- were also named in the squad. Mahmudullah recently started training after suffering a shoulder injury while Mustafizur has not fully recovered from an ankle problem. Rubel is recovering from a side strain. All 10 participating teams will have to submit their 15-member squads by April 23, while injury replacements can be named until May 23. Bangladesh begin their campaign against South Africa at the Oval in London on June 2. Squad: Mashrafe Mortaza (captain), Tamim Iqbal, Liton Das, Soumya Sarkar, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Mahmudullah, Shakib Al Hasan (vice captain), Mohammad Mithun, Sabbir Rahaman, Mosaddek Hossain, Mohammad Saifuddin, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rubel Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Abu Jayed

Uncapped Abu Jayed in Bangladesh's World Cup squad, Mosaddek Hossain back

After months of speculations, the much-awaited announcement of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-and-dinesh-karthik-in-rishabh-pant-out-as-indias-icc-world-cup-squad-announced-210575">Indian squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019</a> was finally announced.&nbsp;The named squad had many surprising inclusions, as players whom everyone thought will be inducted have actually been omitted.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Rishabh Pant and Ambati Rayadu were the players who were expecting a call-up for England but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-shankar-is-three-dimensional-looking-him-at-no-4-msk-prasad-after-naming-indias-world-cup-squad-210607">they were replaced with Dinesh Kartik and Vijay Shankar.</a>

Minutes after the announcement, Twitter exploded with hilarious Bollywood memes expressing Pant's mood after seeing the squad list.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldcupsquad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldcupsquad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup2019</a> 
*BCCI selects Dinesh Kartik Over Rishabh Pant* 
Rishabh Pant to BCCI- <a href="https://t.co/D9XVTArpmU">pic.twitter.com/D9XVTArpmU</a>
— N I T I N (@theNitinWalke) <a href="https://twitter.com/theNitinWalke/status/1117731775357177856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Reason why pant dropped from wc squad<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottInsecureCaptain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottInsecureCaptain</a> <a href="https://t.co/K8TyD65aMa">pic.twitter.com/K8TyD65aMa</a>
— Troll Dhawan Haters (@Dhawanswarrior) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dhawanswarrior/status/1117741357819240448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Rishabh Pant waiting for selectors <a href="https://t.co/IhCz2mqOiq">pic.twitter.com/IhCz2mqOiq</a>
— Faking News (@fakingnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/fakingnews/status/1117727950671990785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pant to Virat after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WC2019Squad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WC2019Squad</a> announcement <a href="https://t.co/wFMrj3KIOD">pic.twitter.com/wFMrj3KIOD</a>
— DJ 🎧 LM #LPPL (@djaywalebabu) <a href="https://twitter.com/djaywalebabu/status/1117735328150720512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Rishabh Pant looking at India’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2019</a> squad announcement <a href="https://t.co/Dk8WOTn0xV">pic.twitter.com/Dk8WOTn0xV</a>
— The-Lying-Lama 2.0 (@KyaUkhaadLega) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyaUkhaadLega/status/1117732831461986305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> 
This is how <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DineshKarthik</a> and his fans making fun of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pant</a> 
I m feeling bad for him 
Rishav pant👏👏 
Better luck next time <a href="https://t.co/Ew1qv64dmZ">pic.twitter.com/Ew1qv64dmZ</a>
— Waz kkr (@WasherSrkian1) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasherSrkian1/status/1117733172723118080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Raydu ane Pant's reaction after not getting selection in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCworldcup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCworldcup2019</a> team.. <a href="https://t.co/11u3wMXCxO">pic.twitter.com/11u3wMXCxO</a>
— 20may (@mistervismy) <a href="https://twitter.com/mistervismy/status/1117744451093291008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While Dinesh was preferred over Pant due to his superior 'keeping skills, Shankar had been included to take up the role of the number four position in the playing XI, which was earlier unofficially decided for Rayadu by many cricketing experts.&nbsp;

For the uninitiated, the team announced for the World Cup are provisional selections and can be changed till May 23rd without ICC permission.

The cricket tournament will from May 30 to July 14, with India's first game to be played against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

After months of speculations, the much-awaited announcement of the Indian squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 was finally announced. The named squad had many surprising inclusions, as players whom everyone thought will be inducted have actually been omitted.

After months of speculations, the much-awaited announcement of the Indian squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 was finally announced. The named squad had many surprising inclusions, as players whom everyone thought will be inducted have actually been omitted. Rishabh Pant and Ambati Rayadu were the players who were expecting a call-up for England but they were replaced with Dinesh Kartik and Vijay Shankar. Minutes after the announcement, Twitter exploded with hilarious Bollywood memes expressing Pant's mood after seeing the squad list. #worldcupsquad #WorldCup2019 *BCCI selects Dinesh Kartik Over Rishabh Pant* Rishabh Pant to BCCI- pic.twitter.com/D9XVTArpmU — N I T I N (@theNitinWalke) April 15, 2019 × Reason why pant dropped from wc squad#BoycottInsecureCaptain pic.twitter.com/K8TyD65aMa — Troll Dhawan Haters (@Dhawanswarrior) April 15, 2019 × Rishabh Pant waiting for selectors pic.twitter.com/IhCz2mqOiq — Faking News (@fakingnews) April 15, 2019 × Pant to Virat after #WC2019Squad announcement pic.twitter.com/wFMrj3KIOD — DJ 🎧 LM #LPPL (@djaywalebabu) April 15, 2019 × Rishabh Pant looking at India’s #CWC2019 squad announcement pic.twitter.com/Dk8WOTn0xV — The-Lying-Lama 2.0 (@KyaUkhaadLega) April 15, 2019 × #CWC19 This is how @DineshKarthik and his fans making fun of #Pant I m feeling bad for him Rishav pant👏👏 Better luck next time pic.twitter.com/Ew1qv64dmZ — Waz kkr (@WasherSrkian1) April 15, 2019 × Raydu ane Pant's reaction after not getting selection in #ICCworldcup2019 team.. pic.twitter.com/11u3wMXCxO — 20may (@mistervismy) April 15, 2019 × While Dinesh was preferred over Pant due to his superior 'keeping skills, Shankar had been included to take up the role of the number four position in the playing XI, which was earlier unofficially decided for Rayadu by many cricketing experts. For the uninitiated, the team announced for the World Cup are provisional selections and can be changed till May 23rd without ICC permission. The cricket tournament will from May 30 to July 14, with India's first game to be played against South Africa on June 5.

Twitterati express Rishabh Pant's mood in Bollywood style after being excluded from ICC World Cup squad

India's national cricket team selector MSK Prasad on Monday named <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-and-dinesh-karthik-in-rishabh-pant-out-as-indias-icc-world-cup-squad-announced-210575">Vijay Shankar, Dinesh Karthik and KL Rahul in the squad for the upcoming 2019 ICC World Cup</a> in England and Wales.&nbsp;

The selection committee, however, left Ambati Rayudu while all-rounder Vijay Shankar made the cut as a batsman who can bowl.

Talking about choosing Shankar over Rayadu, Prasad was quick to answer saying Vijay is 'three dimensional'

"After the Champions Trophy (2017), we tried quite a few people in that position. We did give a few more chances to Rayudu. Vijay Shankar is three dimensional. We are looking at him at no. 4 to begin with."

"We also have Dinesh Karthik and Kedar Jadhav. It's not that anything that went against [Rayudu], it's that a few things went for [Shankar]," Prasad added.

To everyone's surprise, Rishabh Pant exclusion was also a shocking decision by the management.&nbsp;

When asked what made them take such a call, Prasad said Karthik was preferred over Pant due to his superior 'keeping skills.

"Definitely a case where we debated (at) length. We all (agreed) that either Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik will come in only when [Dhoni] is injured. In an important game, wicket keeping is also important. That's the reason we went with Dinesh Karthik."

Ravindra Jadeja took up the third spinner's slot, alongside wrist spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;

The four pacers in the side picked themselves with Jasprit Bumrah leading an attack that also includes Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

For the uninitiated, the team announced for the World Cup are provisional selections and can be changed till May 23rd without ICC permission.

The cricket tournament will from May 30 to July 14, with India's first game to be played against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

India's national cricket team selector MSK Prasad on Monday named Vijay Shankar, Dinesh Karthik and KL Rahul in the squad for the upcoming 2019 ICC World Cup in England and Wales.

India's national cricket team selector MSK Prasad on Monday named Vijay Shankar, Dinesh Karthik and KL Rahul in the squad for the upcoming 2019 ICC World Cup in England and Wales. The selection committee, however, left Ambati Rayudu while all-rounder Vijay Shankar made the cut as a batsman who can bowl. Talking about choosing Shankar over Rayadu, Prasad was quick to answer saying Vijay is 'three dimensional' "After the Champions Trophy (2017), we tried quite a few people in that position. We did give a few more chances to Rayudu. Vijay Shankar is three dimensional. We are looking at him at no. 4 to begin with." "We also have Dinesh Karthik and Kedar Jadhav. It's not that anything that went against [Rayudu], it's that a few things went for [Shankar]," Prasad added. To everyone's surprise, Rishabh Pant exclusion was also a shocking decision by the management. When asked what made them take such a call, Prasad said Karthik was preferred over Pant due to his superior 'keeping skills. "Definitely a case where we debated (at) length. We all (agreed) that either Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik will come in only when [Dhoni] is injured. In an important game, wicket keeping is also important. That's the reason we went with Dinesh Karthik." Ravindra Jadeja took up the third spinner's slot, alongside wrist spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav. The four pacers in the side picked themselves with Jasprit Bumrah leading an attack that also includes Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. For the uninitiated, the team announced for the World Cup are provisional selections and can be changed till May 23rd without ICC permission. The cricket tournament will from May 30 to July 14, with India's first game to be played against South Africa on June 5.

Vijay Shankar is three dimensional, looking at him for no 4: MSK Prasad after naming India's World Cup squad

The Indian selection committee will announce the 15 players squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup on Monday. However, former Indian cricket team opener Virender Sehwag has already picked up his team for the tournament starting May 30. &nbsp;

Sehwag, who has played in three World Cups for the country, took to his Twitter to announce his team.&nbsp;

The interesting point in his chosen team is that seven players out of 15 played in the 2015 World Cup.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami are the seven players who were also part of the 2015 World Cup team.

He also asked his fans to tell their team for the cricket World cup.&nbsp;

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My Team India for the 2019 World Cup. 7 players from the 2015 team, 8 replacements ! What is your team ? <a href="https://t.co/37QPZ9Z267">pic.twitter.com/37QPZ9Z267</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1117043940082028544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While many believed that there won't be much difference in the official squad of Team India, some were of the opinion that Ambati Rayadu should be given a chance.&nbsp;

Some were also of the opinion that Rishabh pant should be replaced with Dinesh Karthik.

The Indian selection committee will announce the 15 players squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup on Monday. However, former Indian cricket team opener Virender Sehwag has already picked up his team for the tournament starting May 30.

The Indian selection committee will announce the 15 players squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup on Monday. However, former Indian cricket team opener Virender Sehwag has already picked up his team for the tournament starting May 30. Sehwag, who has played in three World Cups for the country, took to his Twitter to announce his team. The interesting point in his chosen team is that seven players out of 15 played in the 2015 World Cup. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami are the seven players who were also part of the 2015 World Cup team. He also asked his fans to tell their team for the cricket World cup. My Team India for the 2019 World Cup. 7 players from the 2015 team, 8 replacements ! What is your team ? pic.twitter.com/37QPZ9Z267 — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 13, 2019 × While many believed that there won't be much difference in the official squad of Team India, some were of the opinion that Ambati Rayadu should be given a chance. Some were also of the opinion that Rishabh pant should be replaced with Dinesh Karthik.

Virender Sehwag picks his 'Team India' for 2019 ICC World Cup

Ranveer Singh is currently in Dharamshala as he trains and prepares for his role in Kabir Khan’s ‘83’ that tells the story of India’s historic win in the Cricket World Cup Championship in 1983.

Ranveer Singh is currently in Dharamshala as he trains and prepares for his role in Kabir Khan’s ‘83’ that tells the story of India’s historic win in the Cricket World Cup Championship in 1983. Sharing pictures of him training with Kapil Dev who served as the Indian captain at the time of the win, Ranveer looks elated and lost in training. In one photo shared by Ranveer on Instagram, he wrote: "Becoming the Hurricane #KapilDev #legend #journeybegins @83thefilm @kabirkhankk." On the film and his role, in an earlier interview, Ranveer said, "He is a legend in the truest sense. He commands such respect in the cricket fraternity and has a vast fan following.” He added, "The story of underdogs' triumph is completely lost. There is a whole generation that needs to know.” View this post on Instagram Becoming the Hurricane 🌪 #KapilDev #Legend #JourneyBegins @83thefilm @kabirkhankk 🏏 A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Apr 5, 2019 at 6:34pm PDT × View this post on Instagram LEGEND!🏏👑 #KapilDev @83thefilm #blessed #journeybegins @kabirkhankk A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Apr 5, 2019 at 10:58pm PDT × The movie will be released in three languages, that is, Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil. View this post on Instagram Workin’ the #NatrajShot 🏏with the Man Himself #KapilDev 👑 @83thefilm #blessed #journeybegins @kabirkhankk A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Apr 6, 2019 at 3:23am PDT × View this post on Instagram Guess who ❓❓❓ A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Apr 7, 2019 at 12:36pm PDT × The cast includes the likes of Pankaj Tripathi, Saqib Saleem, Chirag Patil, Sahil Khattar. The film’s shoot begins in May. The film will release on April 10, 2020. On another note, Kapil Dev's daughter will work on the film as an assistant director.

'83': Ranveer Singh shares pics of him training with Kapil Dev for cricket world cup film

Chennai spinner Harbhajan Singh's performance in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League has been the talk of the town.&nbsp;

In almost every game, Harbhajan has given match-winning performances for the defending champions.&nbsp;

He picked up three crucial wickets in the opening match against Bangalore and repeated the heroics against Punjab.

The off-spinner, who was an integral part of the Mumbai team, switched to Chennai last season and won the title with the ‘Yellow Brigade’.&nbsp;

When asked what major difference he feels in the two teams, Singh in an interview to a newspaper said, "I have great respect for MI and they are wonderful this year as well, but the pressure of winning is more there."

"Here in CSK it’s more chilled out, you are expected to win, but it’s not a matter of life and death here,” the seasoned campaigner said," he added.

It will be crucial to see if Harbhajan can stop Jamaican Andre Russell from going berserk when Chennai lock horns with Kolkata on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Chennai spinner Harbhajan Singh's performance in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League has been the talk of the town. In almost every game, Harbhajan has given match-winning performances for the defending champions.

Chennai spinner Harbhajan Singh's performance in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League has been the talk of the town. In almost every game, Harbhajan has given match-winning performances for the defending champions. He picked up three crucial wickets in the opening match against Bangalore and repeated the heroics against Punjab. The off-spinner, who was an integral part of the Mumbai team, switched to Chennai last season and won the title with the ‘Yellow Brigade’. When asked what major difference he feels in the two teams, Singh in an interview to a newspaper said, "I have great respect for MI and they are wonderful this year as well, but the pressure of winning is more there." "Here in CSK it’s more chilled out, you are expected to win, but it’s not a matter of life and death here,” the seasoned campaigner said," he added. It will be crucial to see if Harbhajan can stop Jamaican Andre Russell from going berserk when Chennai lock horns with Kolkata on Tuesday.

IPL 2019:  Winning 'matter of life and death' at Mumbai than at Chennai, says Harbhajan Singh

Former skipper Kevin Pietersen reckons that if hot and dry conditions persist in England, it will work more in favour of sub-continent teams during the upcoming World Cup but green surfaces would be an advantage for the hosts.

Pietersen said last summer was one of the hottest with hardly any rain.&nbsp;

"We started a Test against India in 2000 something. On day one it was an absolutely green surface but at the end of day two it was completely dry. It never rained but the moisture that was was sucked by the system dry completely and depleting any grass on the wicket.&nbsp;

"If the conditions are like they were last summer, then I can say sub-continental teams will have a massive role to play in the World Cup. If they are not and it's horrible and green and seaming all over, it will play into England's favour," said Pietersen.

However, Pietersen fears that if the ball swung as it did on the West Indies, England could be in trouble.&nbsp;

"The one downside for England though is that although they have the license to slog from ball one, but in those swinging and seaming conditions it's quite difficult as we saw in the West Indies at Barbados where the ball did a bit and the West Indies knocked over England (in the Test)," he said.

Batting great Brian Lara felt that the West Indies, recently, have become strong at home but cautioned that it was consistency and team work which could see the team through in the World Cup.

"The series against England has given us all in the West indies some hope. We have become strong at home. But I am not going to be fooled by what we did against England. We have a team that understands the conditions at home now. But four months ago we were terrible, but I am happy to see we have made that little progress in our cricket,&nbsp;said the former stylish left-handed batsman.

"We have got a few match winners but in English conditions, we need a bit more than match winners to win the World Cup. We need a team with great consistency and if we reach the knock out stages we can knock out any team. It gives us a little bit of chance but would like to see the team selection first."

Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene was not happy with the way things have gone in his country in the run-up to the mega event with so many chopping and changing.

"Usually we plan for the World Cup years ahead - 12 months ahead&nbsp;and know what our combinations are. This time there is the (upcoming) provincial tournament to finalise the World Cup squad. That shows inconsistency in the approach," he said candidly.

"It's not alarming as there is talent, some good players who have had experience of World Cup before and have been in finals before. Sri Lanka always turns out for the World Cup with a mentality that they can win. Leading up to the World Cup, we have not done well. We have won a handful of matches over the last five months both in Sri Lanka and away&nbsp;which won't give any confidence."

Jayawardene said a settled top-order is crucial and Sri Lanka are still not sure about it.&nbsp;

"There has not been a consistent selection process. We had like eight different opening partnerships. Top four guys are very crucial in those conditions. I think they need to find solutions for that, some soul searching. Hopefully, this domestic tournament is not going to make a huge impact in the selection process. You need to back the guys who have done the thing in the past. I hope common sense will prevail," he added.

Former skipper Kevin Pietersen reckons that if hot and dry conditions persist in England, it will work more in favour of sub-continent teams during the upcoming World Cup but green surfaces would be an advantage for the hosts.

Former skipper Kevin Pietersen reckons that if hot and dry conditions persist in England, it will work more in favour of sub-continent teams during the upcoming World Cup but green surfaces would be an advantage for the hosts. Pietersen said last summer was one of the hottest with hardly any rain. "We started a Test against India in 2000 something. On day one it was an absolutely green surface but at the end of day two it was completely dry. It never rained but the moisture that was was sucked by the system dry completely and depleting any grass on the wicket. "If the conditions are like they were last summer, then I can say sub-continental teams will have a massive role to play in the World Cup. If they are not and it's horrible and green and seaming all over, it will play into England's favour," said Pietersen. However, Pietersen fears that if the ball swung as it did on the West Indies, England could be in trouble. "The one downside for England though is that although they have the license to slog from ball one, but in those swinging and seaming conditions it's quite difficult as we saw in the West Indies at Barbados where the ball did a bit and the West Indies knocked over England (in the Test)," he said. Batting great Brian Lara felt that the West Indies, recently, have become strong at home but cautioned that it was consistency and team work which could see the team through in the World Cup. "The series against England has given us all in the West indies some hope. We have become strong at home. But I am not going to be fooled by what we did against England. We have a team that understands the conditions at home now. But four months ago we were terrible, but I am happy to see we have made that little progress in our cricket, said the former stylish left-handed batsman. "We have got a few match winners but in English conditions, we need a bit more than match winners to win the World Cup. We need a team with great consistency and if we reach the knock out stages we can knock out any team. It gives us a little bit of chance but would like to see the team selection first." Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene was not happy with the way things have gone in his country in the run-up to the mega event with so many chopping and changing. "Usually we plan for the World Cup years ahead - 12 months ahead and know what our combinations are. This time there is the (upcoming) provincial tournament to finalise the World Cup squad. That shows inconsistency in the approach," he said candidly. "It's not alarming as there is talent, some good players who have had experience of World Cup before and have been in finals before. Sri Lanka always turns out for the World Cup with a mentality that they can win. Leading up to the World Cup, we have not done well. We have won a handful of matches over the last five months both in Sri Lanka and away which won't give any confidence." Jayawardene said a settled top-order is crucial and Sri Lanka are still not sure about it. "There has not been a consistent selection process. We had like eight different opening partnerships. Top four guys are very crucial in those conditions. I think they need to find solutions for that, some soul searching. Hopefully, this domestic tournament is not going to make a huge impact in the selection process. You need to back the guys who have done the thing in the past. I hope common sense will prevail," he added.

Hot conditions in England would be an advantage for sub-continent teams: Kevin Pietersen

India are a class outfit but they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, former batsman Sanjay Manjrekar told Reuters in an interview.

With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the twice champions have a top order the rival of any in the game.

Selectors continue to fret over who bats after the second wicket falls, however, with a series of candidates having fluffed their auditions.

Ajinkya Rahane, Manish Pandey, Lokesh Rahul and Dinesh Karthik have all been trialled for the number four spot and been found wanting.

Ambati Rayudu emerged as the most likely choice to fill the berth but scores of 13, 18 and two in the first three matches of the recent home series against world champions Australia damaged his cause.

The hosts ended up losing the series 3-2 and Manjrekar felt India were back to square one with no more ODIs scheduled before the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales, where India will be looking to add to their 1983 and 2011 triumphs.

"There was only one little gap that needed to be filled which is number four and getting some exciting options at four, five, six," Manjrekar said.

"They tried quite a few people and I don't begrudge them that. I don't think that was wrong. It's just disappointing that the players have not used the opportunity to cement their places.

"Like, Ambati Rayudu had a great opportunity. He got a 90 in New Zealand and I thought that's done. But then he fails in the next few innings and then a good ball will suddenly get him out and you sort of lose faith in him as the number four."

Vijay Shankar's rise as a handy, nerveless all-rounder was one definite gain from the Australia series.

With India's first choice pace-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya injured, Shankar proved he could float in the batting order and hold his nerve in the death overs with ball in hand.

Manjrekar, who played 37 tests and 74 ODIs for India before turning his hand to media punditry, said that Shankar was his pick to fill the number four spot.

"Your number four has got to have a little bit of class because in England it's perfectly possible that you are 20-2 so you got to have somebody who will just weather the storm and then take India close to 300 runs," he said.

"That perfect number four India still haven't found and I don't think they will find it now.

"So when India goes into the World Cup, it's a class team with genuine class in bowling and batting but with a soft underbelly which will be their middle order.

"Vijay Shankar is my current number four -- not the ideal number four but from the candidates that we have, he is my number four."

Australia Revival

Manjrekar&nbsp;said he expected the usual suspects to be challenging for the World Cup.

Five-times world champions Australia arrived in India as clear underdogs for the recent short format tour, having endured a wretched couple of years in ODIs during which they lost six series in a row.

That form slump was exacerbated by the ball-tampering scandal that robbed them of Steve Smith and David Warner for 12 months.

Without their two best batsmen as well as frontline pace duo Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, they still managed to win a five-match series from 2-0 down for the first time.

"I am delighted that Australia is coming into their own," Manjrekar said.

"Because you don't want a World Cup where there are one or two teams clear leaders and others are really struggling.

"And don't forget they know what it takes to be champions. So if they have one or two good games, they will be thinking about only the title, nothing else."

Manjrekar did not have the same optimism about the chances of hosts England, who top the ODI world rankings but have yet to win the World Cup.

"I want to see England on a global sort of platform, when the entire world is watching," he added.

"I want to see how they cope with the pressure that comes with it. I have a big question mark over their temperament as a team."

India are a class outfit but they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, former batsman Sanjay Manjrekar told Reuters in an interview.

India are a class outfit but they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, former batsman Sanjay Manjrekar told Reuters in an interview. With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the twice champions have a top order the rival of any in the game. Selectors continue to fret over who bats after the second wicket falls, however, with a series of candidates having fluffed their auditions. Ajinkya Rahane, Manish Pandey, Lokesh Rahul and Dinesh Karthik have all been trialled for the number four spot and been found wanting. Ambati Rayudu emerged as the most likely choice to fill the berth but scores of 13, 18 and two in the first three matches of the recent home series against world champions Australia damaged his cause. The hosts ended up losing the series 3-2 and Manjrekar felt India were back to square one with no more ODIs scheduled before the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales, where India will be looking to add to their 1983 and 2011 triumphs. "There was only one little gap that needed to be filled which is number four and getting some exciting options at four, five, six," Manjrekar said. "They tried quite a few people and I don't begrudge them that. I don't think that was wrong. It's just disappointing that the players have not used the opportunity to cement their places. "Like, Ambati Rayudu had a great opportunity. He got a 90 in New Zealand and I thought that's done. But then he fails in the next few innings and then a good ball will suddenly get him out and you sort of lose faith in him as the number four." Vijay Shankar's rise as a handy, nerveless all-rounder was one definite gain from the Australia series. With India's first choice pace-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya injured, Shankar proved he could float in the batting order and hold his nerve in the death overs with ball in hand. Manjrekar, who played 37 tests and 74 ODIs for India before turning his hand to media punditry, said that Shankar was his pick to fill the number four spot. "Your number four has got to have a little bit of class because in England it's perfectly possible that you are 20-2 so you got to have somebody who will just weather the storm and then take India close to 300 runs," he said. "That perfect number four India still haven't found and I don't think they will find it now. "So when India goes into the World Cup, it's a class team with genuine class in bowling and batting but with a soft underbelly which will be their middle order. "Vijay Shankar is my current number four -- not the ideal number four but from the candidates that we have, he is my number four." Australia Revival Manjrekar said he expected the usual suspects to be challenging for the World Cup. Five-times world champions Australia arrived in India as clear underdogs for the recent short format tour, having endured a wretched couple of years in ODIs during which they lost six series in a row. That form slump was exacerbated by the ball-tampering scandal that robbed them of Steve Smith and David Warner for 12 months. Without their two best batsmen as well as frontline pace duo Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, they still managed to win a five-match series from 2-0 down for the first time. "I am delighted that Australia is coming into their own," Manjrekar said. "Because you don't want a World Cup where there are one or two teams clear leaders and others are really struggling. "And don't forget they know what it takes to be champions. So if they have one or two good games, they will be thinking about only the title, nothing else." Manjrekar did not have the same optimism about the chances of hosts England, who top the ODI world rankings but have yet to win the World Cup. "I want to see England on a global sort of platform, when the entire world is watching," he added. "I want to see how they cope with the pressure that comes with it. I have a big question mark over their temperament as a team."

India a class act with soft underbelly: Sanjay Manjrekar

India's wicketkeeper-batsman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Rishabh+Pant">Rishabh Pant</a> has said that he is scared of&nbsp;skipper Virat Kohli's anger.&nbsp;

"I am not scared of anyone but Virat bhaiya ke gusse se dar lagta hai (I'm scared of Virat Kohli's anger)," Pant said in a video posted by his IPL team, Delhi&nbsp;in their official website.

He further added, "But if you are doing everything correctly, then why he (Kohli) should get angry."&nbsp;

"But if you make a mistake and someone gets angry with you.. It's good because you only learn from your mistakes," said Pant.&nbsp;

Pant, who is considered as the best wicketkeeping option for future, has played some dashing knocks in all three formats of the game.

However, his wicket-keeping skills have sometimes left skipper Kohli disappointed.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has said that he is scared of skipper Virat Kohli's anger. "I am not scared of anyone but Virat bhaiya ke gusse se dar lagta hai (I'm scared of Virat Kohli's anger)," Pant said in a video posted by his IPL team, Delhi in their official website.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has said that he is scared of skipper Virat Kohli's anger. "I am not scared of anyone but Virat bhaiya ke gusse se dar lagta hai (I'm scared of Virat Kohli's anger)," Pant said in a video posted by his IPL team, Delhi in their official website. He further added, "But if you are doing everything correctly, then why he (Kohli) should get angry." "But if you make a mistake and someone gets angry with you.. It's good because you only learn from your mistakes," said Pant. Pant, who is considered as the best wicketkeeping option for future, has played some dashing knocks in all three formats of the game. However, his wicket-keeping skills have sometimes left skipper Kohli disappointed.

I'm scared of Virat Kohli's anger: Rishabh Pant

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

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

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

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

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav says Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understanding of match situations beats that of the bowlers and the former captain's presence behind the stumps makes his job easy.&nbsp;

Yadav, who is quite vocal in his admiration for Dhoni, said he feels lucky to play alongside the iconic keeper-batsman, who led India to two world titles.

"He always guides us bowlers, whenever he feels the need to get his message across he does it. When the wicketkeeper supports you like that, it becomes easier for the bowler," Yadav was quoted as saying by India Today's YouTube channel 'Sports Tak'.

"A lot of times, the bowler is not able to understand the situation but the wicketkeeper understands it better. Mahi bhai is just like that.

"He has so much experience. He tells gives us small details and even when he doesn't, I make sure to ask him for guidance. Chahal and I feel very lucky to be playing with him. Bowling becomes easier with Mahi bhai behind the stumps," he added.

Speaking on India's chances at the World Cup in England, starting May 30, Yadav said the 2011 champions are in with a great opportunity but he also expects teams like England and Pakistan to do well.&nbsp;

"We definitely have the chance to bring the World Cup home. But I feel England has a strong batting line-up as compared to the other teams. They will be playing in home conditions.

"I think Pakistan will also perform well in the World Cup looking at the way they have been performing. So I think England and Pakistan will be the ones to watch out for," Yadav said.

The left-arm spinner also lauded India's pace attack.

"We have a very good combination of bowlers in the side now. We train together and back each other which is the biggest plus point," Yadav said.

On current captain Virat Kohli, Yadav said, "Virat bhai always backs us. He understands our bowling styles be it spinners or fast bowlers. He is a very attacking captain.

"It feels good as a spinner because then we get to take wickets regularly. He supports not only me and Chahal but all the other youngsters in the team," he added.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav says Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understanding of match situations beats that of the bowlers and the former captain's presence behind the stumps makes his job easy.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav says Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understanding of match situations beats that of the bowlers and the former captain's presence behind the stumps makes his job easy. Yadav, who is quite vocal in his admiration for Dhoni, said he feels lucky to play alongside the iconic keeper-batsman, who led India to two world titles. "He always guides us bowlers, whenever he feels the need to get his message across he does it. When the wicketkeeper supports you like that, it becomes easier for the bowler," Yadav was quoted as saying by India Today's YouTube channel 'Sports Tak'. "A lot of times, the bowler is not able to understand the situation but the wicketkeeper understands it better. Mahi bhai is just like that. "He has so much experience. He tells gives us small details and even when he doesn't, I make sure to ask him for guidance. Chahal and I feel very lucky to be playing with him. Bowling becomes easier with Mahi bhai behind the stumps," he added. Speaking on India's chances at the World Cup in England, starting May 30, Yadav said the 2011 champions are in with a great opportunity but he also expects teams like England and Pakistan to do well. "We definitely have the chance to bring the World Cup home. But I feel England has a strong batting line-up as compared to the other teams. They will be playing in home conditions. "I think Pakistan will also perform well in the World Cup looking at the way they have been performing. So I think England and Pakistan will be the ones to watch out for," Yadav said. The left-arm spinner also lauded India's pace attack. "We have a very good combination of bowlers in the side now. We train together and back each other which is the biggest plus point," Yadav said. On current captain Virat Kohli, Yadav said, "Virat bhai always backs us. He understands our bowling styles be it spinners or fast bowlers. He is a very attacking captain. "It feels good as a spinner because then we get to take wickets regularly. He supports not only me and Chahal but all the other youngsters in the team," he added.

Dhoni understands match situations better than bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav

Amid speculation&nbsp;that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indo-pak-world-cup-match-bound-by-icc-agreement-icc-chief-david-richardson-204177">India might not&nbsp;play Pakistan at the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to develop a firm stand on cricketing relations with Pakistan.&nbsp;

Gambhir, who was addressing the media on the sidelines of a promotional event, stressed that BCCI should either snap all cricketing ties with Pakistan, including multi-lateral events, or engage with India's arch-rivals at every level as "there can't be conditional bans".&nbsp;

After the Pulwama terror attack, Gambhir had voiced his opinion — of snapping all cricketing ties with Pakistan — several times and said BCCI has to decide and then be prepared for the consequences.

"There can't be conditional bans. Either you ban everything with Pakistan or open everything with Pakistan. What has happened in Pulwama is absolutely not acceptable," Gambhir had said.

"I am sure its going to be difficult for India to boycott them in ICC tournaments but stop playing Pakistan in the Asia Cup," the left-hander said.

Gambhir reiterated that there should be a blanket ban on engagement with Pakistan even if it comes at the cost of being ostracised by the sporting community.

"There could be repercussions and we may not qualify for the semi-finals. No media should blame the Indian team if they plan to boycott playing Pakistan," he said.

The BCCI had appealed to the ICC to snap ties with countries from where terror emanates in a veiled reference to Pakistan but the request was turned down at the ICC board meeting in Dubai.

When asked what should be done if the two teams meet in the final, Gambhir said that in that case, India should forfeit the final.

Amid speculation that India might not play Pakistan at the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to develop a firm stand on cricketing relations with Pakistan.

Amid speculation that India might not play Pakistan at the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to develop a firm stand on cricketing relations with Pakistan. Gambhir, who was addressing the media on the sidelines of a promotional event, stressed that BCCI should either snap all cricketing ties with Pakistan, including multi-lateral events, or engage with India's arch-rivals at every level as "there can't be conditional bans". After the Pulwama terror attack, Gambhir had voiced his opinion — of snapping all cricketing ties with Pakistan — several times and said BCCI has to decide and then be prepared for the consequences. "There can't be conditional bans. Either you ban everything with Pakistan or open everything with Pakistan. What has happened in Pulwama is absolutely not acceptable," Gambhir had said. "I am sure its going to be difficult for India to boycott them in ICC tournaments but stop playing Pakistan in the Asia Cup," the left-hander said. Gambhir reiterated that there should be a blanket ban on engagement with Pakistan even if it comes at the cost of being ostracised by the sporting community. "There could be repercussions and we may not qualify for the semi-finals. No media should blame the Indian team if they plan to boycott playing Pakistan," he said. The BCCI had appealed to the ICC to snap ties with countries from where terror emanates in a veiled reference to Pakistan but the request was turned down at the ICC board meeting in Dubai. When asked what should be done if the two teams meet in the final, Gambhir said that in that case, India should forfeit the final.

Either snap all cricketing ties or engage at every level with Pakistan: Gautam Gambhir to BCCI

The Indian players will have to smartly manage their workload during the upcoming IPL since it will be their responsibility to stay fit and fresh for the ICC World Cup, says skipper Virat Kohli.

The upcoming edition of the popular Indian Premier League (IPL) will begin on March 23 and culminate days before the World Cup, starting on May 30.

Many cricket boards have been cautious in releasing their players for their respective IPL franchises, putting national duty above league commitments.

Kohli said it's not that he is asking the Indian players not to be committed to their IPL teams but to be smart and aware during the course of the tournament.

"All the workload will be monitored and given a window, the guys can afford to rest. The World Cup comes every four years and we play IPL every year," said Kohli after India lost the decisive fifth ODI by 35 runs on Wednesday to concede the series 2-3 to Australia.

"Not to say we won't be committed to the IPL but we've got to be smart. We have to work in balance and take smart decisions.

"The responsibility and the onus is on the player. No one will be forced to do something. Eventually no one wants to miss the World Cup and cost the team good balance," added Kohli.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-india-by-35-runs-in-fifth-odi-win-series-3-2-203158">India lost its first ODI series since 2015 and will go into the World Cup after losing three straight matches</a> but Kohli said it was not something that is bothering the team management.

"None of the guys in the change room are panicking. The support staff is not feeling down after this defeat because we knew things we wanted to do in these last three games," Kohli said.

"To be honest, it doesn't feel like something off has happened because we have been playing such good cricket. The other team has really been more passionate and more energetic than us in the pressure moments. They've grabbed the crucial moments in the game better than us. They deserve to win."

Kohli asserted that India is pretty sure about its playing XI, going into the showpiece ICC event.

"As a side, combination wise, we are pretty sorted. Maximum one change, you'll get to see in the World Cup. As a side, we're balanced," he said.

"Hardik Pandya will come back to the team. With him, there's batting depth, and bowling option opens up. We know where we have to go as a combination. The XI is clear in our head. We just have to take better decisions in pressure situations to go far in the World Cup."

Asked if too much experimentation cost India the series after taking 2-0 lead, Kohli replied in the negative.&nbsp;

"Whoever gets a chance to play, we expect that guy to take responsibility and pressure. And hence you expose these guys to pressure situations where a series is on the line and you expect someone to step up. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't," the India skipper said.

"But unless you try, you wouldn't know. So, that's exactly what we wanted to do in these games. From that point of view, you can analyse. I cannot breakdown who we expect to take the pressure in the World Cup. Unless the squad is announced, I cannot reveal.

"Being on the road for so many months does take a toll on you as a team. I'm not saying that's an excuse because you're expected to do that and be motivated to win every game you're playing for the country," he said.

Kohli said he was proud of India's achievements in the "hectic" season and would like his players to enjoy the IPL now.

"From that point of view, I think all of us just deserve to go to the IPL and just enjoy these two months," he said.&nbsp;

The Indian players will have to smartly manage their workload during the upcoming IPL since it will be their responsibility to stay fit and fresh for the ICC World Cup, says skipper Virat Kohli.

The Indian players will have to smartly manage their workload during the upcoming IPL since it will be their responsibility to stay fit and fresh for the ICC World Cup, says skipper Virat Kohli. The upcoming edition of the popular Indian Premier League (IPL) will begin on March 23 and culminate days before the World Cup, starting on May 30. Many cricket boards have been cautious in releasing their players for their respective IPL franchises, putting national duty above league commitments. Kohli said it's not that he is asking the Indian players not to be committed to their IPL teams but to be smart and aware during the course of the tournament. "All the workload will be monitored and given a window, the guys can afford to rest. The World Cup comes every four years and we play IPL every year," said Kohli after India lost the decisive fifth ODI by 35 runs on Wednesday to concede the series 2-3 to Australia. "Not to say we won't be committed to the IPL but we've got to be smart. We have to work in balance and take smart decisions. "The responsibility and the onus is on the player. No one will be forced to do something. Eventually no one wants to miss the World Cup and cost the team good balance," added Kohli. On Wednesday, India lost its first ODI series since 2015 and will go into the World Cup after losing three straight matches but Kohli said it was not something that is bothering the team management. "None of the guys in the change room are panicking. The support staff is not feeling down after this defeat because we knew things we wanted to do in these last three games," Kohli said. "To be honest, it doesn't feel like something off has happened because we have been playing such good cricket. The other team has really been more passionate and more energetic than us in the pressure moments. They've grabbed the crucial moments in the game better than us. They deserve to win." Kohli asserted that India is pretty sure about its playing XI, going into the showpiece ICC event. "As a side, combination wise, we are pretty sorted. Maximum one change, you'll get to see in the World Cup. As a side, we're balanced," he said. "Hardik Pandya will come back to the team. With him, there's batting depth, and bowling option opens up. We know where we have to go as a combination. The XI is clear in our head. We just have to take better decisions in pressure situations to go far in the World Cup." Asked if too much experimentation cost India the series after taking 2-0 lead, Kohli replied in the negative. "Whoever gets a chance to play, we expect that guy to take responsibility and pressure. And hence you expose these guys to pressure situations where a series is on the line and you expect someone to step up. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't," the India skipper said. "But unless you try, you wouldn't know. So, that's exactly what we wanted to do in these games. From that point of view, you can analyse. I cannot breakdown who we expect to take the pressure in the World Cup. Unless the squad is announced, I cannot reveal. "Being on the road for so many months does take a toll on you as a team. I'm not saying that's an excuse because you're expected to do that and be motivated to win every game you're playing for the country," he said. Kohli said he was proud of India's achievements in the "hectic" season and would like his players to enjoy the IPL now. "From that point of view, I think all of us just deserve to go to the IPL and just enjoy these two months," he said.

'It doesn't feel like something off has happened,' says Kohli after India lose ODI series to Australia

Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth one-day international at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-blames-drs-after-losing-4th-odi-to-australia-202423">the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2</a>.

Opting to bat, Australia were restricted to a score of 272 runs despite Usman Khawaja hitting a century and Peter Handscomb slamming a half-century.

In reply, India were bowled out for 237 runs as the wickets kept tumbling and vice-captain Rohit Sharma did not find any support at the other end.&nbsp;

Sharma, who had hit a patient and crucial half-century, was the sole batsman to have kept the charge going while others, including skipper Virat Kohli, failed to stay on the crease for long.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the only pair that saved India's pride at home was of Kedar Jadhav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The two played some phenomenal quick shots to reduce the run rate and target, which India at a point were very far from.

The hosts, at one point, were reduced to 136 for the loss of six wickets. It was after that the two took the charge and depleted the Australian bolwing attack for the next few overs.&nbsp;

However, both Jadhav and Kumar departed in quick succession for 44 and 46 runs respectively. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, who was replaced in place of veteran batsman MS Dhoni, once again failed to share the pressure and departed for a poor 16 runs.&nbsp;

There were high expectations from Pant as he is well versed with the conditions of the Kotla ground. Though, his performance with the gloves were decent today in comparison to this 4th ODI, where he committed some serious mistakes that become one of the reasons why India lost the game.&nbsp;

In bowling, India were able to restrict the opponents from scoring a big total. Bhuvneshwar Kumar gave the best performance by clinching three wickets while Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja took two.&nbsp;

Left-arm bowler Kuldeep Yadav settled for one wicket.

For Australia, Adam Zampa was the most disastrous as he went on to take three while Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson settled for a brace.&nbsp;

Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth one-day international at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2.

Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth one-day international at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2. Opting to bat, Australia were restricted to a score of 272 runs despite Usman Khawaja hitting a century and Peter Handscomb slamming a half-century. In reply, India were bowled out for 237 runs as the wickets kept tumbling and vice-captain Rohit Sharma did not find any support at the other end. Sharma, who had hit a patient and crucial half-century, was the sole batsman to have kept the charge going while others, including skipper Virat Kohli, failed to stay on the crease for long. Meanwhile, the only pair that saved India's pride at home was of Kedar Jadhav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The two played some phenomenal quick shots to reduce the run rate and target, which India at a point were very far from. The hosts, at one point, were reduced to 136 for the loss of six wickets. It was after that the two took the charge and depleted the Australian bolwing attack for the next few overs. However, both Jadhav and Kumar departed in quick succession for 44 and 46 runs respectively. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, who was replaced in place of veteran batsman MS Dhoni, once again failed to share the pressure and departed for a poor 16 runs. There were high expectations from Pant as he is well versed with the conditions of the Kotla ground. Though, his performance with the gloves were decent today in comparison to this 4th ODI, where he committed some serious mistakes that become one of the reasons why India lost the game. In bowling, India were able to restrict the opponents from scoring a big total. Bhuvneshwar Kumar gave the best performance by clinching three wickets while Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja took two. Left-arm bowler Kuldeep Yadav settled for one wicket. For Australia, Adam Zampa was the most disastrous as he went on to take three while Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson settled for a brace.

Australia beat India by 35 runs in fifth ODI, win series 3-2

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

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

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

Sunil Gavaskar picks England as 2019 ICC World Cup favourites

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting Tuesday said banned Steve Smith and David Warner's return won't be easy as he expects fan hostility and intense media scrutiny during the ICC World Cup in England, later this year.

Ponting, however, added that there won't be any internal hostility towards the former captain and vice-captain.

The two were banned for a period of 12 months for their in the aftermath of ball tampering incident against South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

"I don't think it is much of a challenge internally around the players," Ponting told cricket.com.au.&nbsp;

"You'd like to think that those guys are having conversations now, so they're not leaving it to the last minute and just be exposed to this thing that could be derailing to a team.

"I'm sure this would have been talked about at a higher level for a long time - how do we integrate them back in? How do they fit in? How is it all going to be seamless?

"But the hardest part for those guys is going to be the public perception of us, especially in England. They`re coming back into a World Cup in the UK - they shouldn`t be expecting too many pats on the back over there," he said.

"They`re going to cop it everywhere they go. They`ve got to know that, they`ve got to accept that and understand that.

"The team needs to as well, because that could also be something that could be unsettling for a team," he added.

Despite their bans getting over before the fourth ODI in Dubai, the two&nbsp;weren't named in Australia's final World Cup buildup in the UAE, an upcoming five-match series against Pakistan,

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting Tuesday said banned Steve Smith and David Warner's return won't be easy as he expects fan hostility and intense media scrutiny during the ICC World Cup in England, later this year.

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting Tuesday said banned Steve Smith and David Warner's return won't be easy as he expects fan hostility and intense media scrutiny during the ICC World Cup in England, later this year. Ponting, however, added that there won't be any internal hostility towards the former captain and vice-captain. The two were banned for a period of 12 months for their in the aftermath of ball tampering incident against South Africa in Cape Town. "I don't think it is much of a challenge internally around the players," Ponting told cricket.com.au. "You'd like to think that those guys are having conversations now, so they're not leaving it to the last minute and just be exposed to this thing that could be derailing to a team. "I'm sure this would have been talked about at a higher level for a long time - how do we integrate them back in? How do they fit in? How is it all going to be seamless? "But the hardest part for those guys is going to be the public perception of us, especially in England. They`re coming back into a World Cup in the UK - they shouldn`t be expecting too many pats on the back over there," he said. "They`re going to cop it everywhere they go. They`ve got to know that, they`ve got to accept that and understand that. "The team needs to as well, because that could also be something that could be unsettling for a team," he added. Despite their bans getting over before the fourth ODI in Dubai, the two weren't named in Australia's final World Cup buildup in the UAE, an upcoming five-match series against Pakistan,

Steve Smith, David Warner return won't be easy, believes Ricky Ponting

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-pays-tribute-to-pulwama-attack-victims-dons-special-army-cap-for-3rd-odi-against-australia-201965">India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps</a> in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to.&nbsp;

In the third ODI in Ranchi on March 8, the Indian team sported military caps as a mark of respect to the CRPF personnel who were killed in the Pulwama terror attack and donated its match fee to the National Defence Fund.

"The BCCI sought permission from the ICC to wear the caps as part of a fundraising drive and in memory of fallen soldiers who have died, which was granted," ICC's General Manager Strategic Communications Claire Furlong said in a statement.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had sent a strongly-worded letter to the ICC, calling for action against India for wearing the caps.

"They took permission from ICC for some other purpose and used it to do something else, which is not acceptable," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Sunday in Karachi.

Last month, the BCCI had asked the ICC to "sever ties with countries from which terrorism emanates" following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The responsibility of the attack was taken by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to. In the third ODI in Ranchi on March 8, the Indian team sported military caps as a mark of respect to the CRPF personnel who were killed in the Pulwama terror attack and donated its match fee to the National Defence Fund. "The BCCI sought permission from the ICC to wear the caps as part of a fundraising drive and in memory of fallen soldiers who have died, which was granted," ICC's General Manager Strategic Communications Claire Furlong said in a statement. The Pakistan Cricket Board had sent a strongly-worded letter to the ICC, calling for action against India for wearing the caps. "They took permission from ICC for some other purpose and used it to do something else, which is not acceptable," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Sunday in Karachi. Last month, the BCCI had asked the ICC to "sever ties with countries from which terrorism emanates" following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The responsibility of the attack was taken by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India was given permission to wear camouflage caps in memory of fallen soldiers: ICC

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) was replaced by young bloke Rishabh Pant in the fourth ODI against Australia. Pant gave a decent performance with bat scoring 34 off 26 balls but failed miserably with the gloves.&nbsp;

One of the reasons India lost the fourth game despite scoring a mammoth 358, was poor fielding, especially by Pant.&nbsp;

The youngster missing a few clear-cut chances, with one being trying to stump a batsman in Dhoni's no-look flick. His missed chance actually turned the game in Australia's favour.&nbsp;

His failure behind the stumps also drew an angry reaction <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-blames-drs-after-losing-4th-odi-to-australia-202423">from India skipper Virat Kohli</a>.

Right-arm leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also didn't look happy as Pant smiled sheepishly after his another failed attempt.

Out of many, here are the three major mistakes Pant committed that cost India 4th ODI.

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Pant's mistakes...!! <a href="https://t.co/qyo9Kpkdox">pic.twitter.com/qyo9Kpkdox</a>
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It turned out to be a dismal day for India in the field despite the heroics of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma. The opening duo's record partnership, which includes a sensational 143, had helped India post a mammoth target.&nbsp;

Australia chase down a record-breaking target of 359 runs, making it the highest ever total that Indian team failed to defend in its ODI history, losing the game by four wickets.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-is-vital-as-we-need-left-right-combination-at-top-going-sanjay-bangar-202257">Also read:&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan is vital as we need left-right combination at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-is-vital-as-we-need-left-right-combination-at-top-going-sanjay-bangar-202257">top</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-is-vital-as-we-need-left-right-combination-at-top-going-sanjay-bangar-202257"> going: Sanjay Bangar</a>

Playing only his second ODI, Turner hit an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls with five boundaries and as many as six sixes to help Australia reach the target with 13 balls to spare.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) was replaced by young bloke Rishabh Pant in the fourth ODI against Australia. Pant gave a decent performance with bat scoring 34 off 26 balls but failed miserably with the gloves.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) was replaced by young bloke Rishabh Pant in the fourth ODI against Australia. Pant gave a decent performance with bat scoring 34 off 26 balls but failed miserably with the gloves. One of the reasons India lost the fourth game despite scoring a mammoth 358, was poor fielding, especially by Pant. The youngster missing a few clear-cut chances, with one being trying to stump a batsman in Dhoni's no-look flick. His missed chance actually turned the game in Australia's favour. His failure behind the stumps also drew an angry reaction from India skipper Virat Kohli. Right-arm leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also didn't look happy as Pant smiled sheepishly after his another failed attempt. Out of many, here are the three major mistakes Pant committed that cost India 4th ODI. Pant's mistakes...!! pic.twitter.com/qyo9Kpkdox — Vidshots (@Vidshots1) March 10, 2019 × It turned out to be a dismal day for India in the field despite the heroics of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma. The opening duo's record partnership, which includes a sensational 143, had helped India post a mammoth target. Australia chase down a record-breaking target of 359 runs, making it the highest ever total that Indian team failed to defend in its ODI history, losing the game by four wickets. Also read: Shikhar Dhawan is vital as we need left-right combination at top going: Sanjay Bangar Playing only his second ODI, Turner hit an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls with five boundaries and as many as six sixes to help Australia reach the target with 13 balls to spare.

Watch: Three mistakes of Rishabh Pant that cost India 4th ODI