<p>Afghanistan stunned Pakistan by eight wickets in chase of 283 in match 22 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Monday (Oct 23) in Chennai. After Babar Azam-led Men in Green opted to bat first, they&nbsp;rode on Babar's 74, Abdullah Shafique's 58 and 40 apiece from Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed to post 282 for 7 with Noor Ahmed (3 for 49) and Naveen-ul-Haq sharing five wickets&nbsp;between them. In reply, the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghans chased down the score in 49 overs with eight wickets in hand.</p>

<p>Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65), Player-of-the-Match Ibrahim Zadran (87), Rahmat Shah (77 not out) and captain Shahidi (48*) took the side to a famous win as the Asian team now has two wins from five games in the ten-team tournament. After the win, Afghan cricketers and their fans as well as&nbsp;former players reacted to the triumph. Here are all the reactions on social media platform X.</p>

<p><strong>Here is a clip of&nbsp;the dressing room celebrations:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations! Our team emerged triumphant n an epic battle against 🇵🇰 ending a long-awaited victory drought. It was a true test of skills &amp; teamwork. All showcased thr immense tlnt &amp; unwavering dedication. Let's celebrate ds 2gether n d glory of our great 🏏 team &amp; people🇦🇫 <a href="https://t.co/d1ZMVqgIM2">pic.twitter.com/d1ZMVqgIM2</a></p>
— Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadNabi007/status/1716506792912650538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq were over the moon:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is no better feeling than this 💙🇦🇫<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICC</a> <a href="https://t.co/OQ4i4PDa4h">pic.twitter.com/OQ4i4PDa4h</a></p>
— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19/status/1716514966940058026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you India 🇮🇳 for Your Support 🫂❤ Love you Chennai!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvsPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/aBGsxMIW6J">pic.twitter.com/aBGsxMIW6J</a></p>
— Naveen Ul Haq Murid (@imnaveenUlHaq_) <a href="https://twitter.com/imnaveenUlHaq_/status/1716515151908831478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-player-of-the-match-zadran-dedicates-award-to-people-whom-pakistan-sent-back-to-afghanistan-650502">CWC '23: Player-of-the-Match Zadran dedicates award to ‘people whom Pakistan sent back to Afghanistan’</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Sachin Tendulkar and others laud Afghanistan:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Afghanistan's performance at this World Cup has been nothing short of outstanding. Their discipline with the bat, the temperament they've shown, and aggressive running between the wickets reflects their hard work. It could possibly be due to a certain Mr. Ajay Jadeja's influence.… <a href="https://t.co/12FaLICQPs">pic.twitter.com/12FaLICQPs</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1716505320556757286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rasid khan fulfilled his promise and I fulfilled mine. Well done guys <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashidkhan_19</a> <a href="https://t.co/DKPU0jWBz9">pic.twitter.com/DKPU0jWBz9</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1716497137486135527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This isn't an upset... it's an uprise!<a href="https://twitter.com/ACBofficials?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ACBofficials</a> 👏🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvsAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvsAFG</a></p>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1716492856142266608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tough pill to swallow for Pakistan but trust me this is not an upset. Afg came close to beating Pak in recent times as well but got over the line today thanks to top batting effort by the top 4. Very well played <a href="https://twitter.com/ACBofficials?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ACBofficials</a> 👏🏽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAFG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/gquQ7fE5Ps">pic.twitter.com/gquQ7fE5Ps</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1716492510024077362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>FANS GO BERSERK</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The dance and Celebrations of Afghanistan tean and fans after won the match against Pakistan.<br />
<br />
- Historic moments for Afghanistan and their fans...!!! <a href="https://t.co/G3HEVvzCP6">pic.twitter.com/G3HEVvzCP6</a></p>
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImTanujSingh/status/1716642990578655527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Famous Scenes today in Chennai<br />
-Irfan Pathan dance with Rashid Khan<br />
- Ajay Jadeja owning Pakistan again<br />
-Indian and afghanistan fans dancing together outside Chepauk<a href="https://t.co/bthKsoekvZ">pic.twitter.com/bthKsoekvZ</a></p>
— ICT Fan (@Delphy06) <a href="https://twitter.com/Delphy06/status/1716568214598021273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>IRFAN CELEBRATES WITH RASHID &amp; CO.</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">🎵 𝘑𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘫𝘰 𝘗𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯. 💙<a href="https://t.co/ILMboJlItK">pic.twitter.com/ILMboJlItK</a></p>
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/LucknowIPL/status/1716507659166450177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>After the loss, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "This hurts us. We had a good total. In the bowling, we aren't up to the mark because we are not taking wickets in the middle&nbsp;overs. In the World Cup, if you are not good in even one department, then you'll lose the match."</p>

<p>"In the field, we didn't stop boundaries and gave away runs, that cost us. Bowling - we started well, in the middle overs, we needed wickets but we couldn't take any wickets," said Babar&nbsp;about the shortcomings the team is facing.</p>

<p>"All credit to Afghanistan the way they played in all three departments. That's why they won. We are not playing good cricket in bowling and fielding. We'll try our best in the next match. We didn't hit the lengths in the middle overs, especially our spinners. We couldn't put pressure on the batters," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a jubilant Afghan skipper Shahidi said, "This win tastes nice. The way we chased was very professional. Looking forward for the other games. The way we chased today, we'll do it again. The quality cricket that we have been playing from the last couple of years, the belief was there when we were playing the Asia Cup also."</p>

<p>At the start of the tournament, I said that we want to make this tournament historic for our country people. First was England, today Pakistan, looking forward for the other games. We'll try our best to play positive&nbsp;cricket and do a lot for our country in this World Cup. The spin bowling department did very well. We gave a chance to Noor and trusted in him, he showed his talent. The way Gurbaz and Ibrahim started the innings, they gave that momentum and confidence. The game was in our hand from the beginning till the end. The last partnership that me and Rahmat played was also good."</p>

<p>Pakistan remain in the fifth spot (four points) after their third defeat on the trot whereas Afghanistan are now in the sixth position.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Afghanistan stunned Pakistan by eight wickets in chase of 283 in match 22 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Monday (Oct 23) in Chennai. After Babar Azam-led Men in Green opted to bat first, they rode on Babar's 74, Abdullah Shafique's 58 and 40 apiece from Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed to post 282 for 7 with Noor Ahmed (3 for 49) and Naveen-ul-Haq sharing five wickets between them.

Afghanistan stunned Pakistan by eight wickets in chase of 283 in match 22 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Monday (Oct 23) in Chennai. After Babar Azam-led Men in Green opted to bat first, they rode on Babar's 74, Abdullah Shafique's 58 and 40 apiece from Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed to post 282 for 7 with Noor Ahmed (3 for 49) and Naveen-ul-Haq sharing five wickets between them. In reply, the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghans chased down the score in 49 overs with eight wickets in hand. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65), Player-of-the-Match Ibrahim Zadran (87), Rahmat Shah (77 not out) and captain Shahidi (48*) took the side to a famous win as the Asian team now has two wins from five games in the ten-team tournament. After the win, Afghan cricketers and their fans as well as former players reacted to the triumph. Here are all the reactions on social media platform X. Here is a clip of the dressing room celebrations: Congratulations! Our team emerged triumphant n an epic battle against 🇵🇰 ending a long-awaited victory drought. It was a true test of skills & teamwork. All showcased thr immense tlnt & unwavering dedication. Let's celebrate ds 2gether n d glory of our great 🏏 team & people🇦🇫 pic.twitter.com/d1ZMVqgIM2 — Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) October 23, 2023 × Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq were over the moon: There is no better feeling than this 💙🇦🇫#CWC23 #ICC pic.twitter.com/OQ4i4PDa4h — Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) October 23, 2023 × Thank you India 🇮🇳 for Your Support 🫂❤ Love you Chennai!! #AFGvsPAK pic.twitter.com/aBGsxMIW6J — Naveen Ul Haq Murid (@imnaveenUlHaq_) October 23, 2023 × Also read: CWC '23: Player-of-the-Match Zadran dedicates award to ‘people whom Pakistan sent back to Afghanistan’ Sachin Tendulkar and others laud Afghanistan: Afghanistan's performance at this World Cup has been nothing short of outstanding. Their discipline with the bat, the temperament they've shown, and aggressive running between the wickets reflects their hard work. It could possibly be due to a certain Mr. Ajay Jadeja's influence.… pic.twitter.com/12FaLICQPs — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 23, 2023 × Rasid khan fulfilled his promise and I fulfilled mine. Well done guys @ICC @rashidkhan_19 pic.twitter.com/DKPU0jWBz9 — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 23, 2023 × This isn't an upset... it's an uprise!@ACBofficials 👏🏻#PAKvsAFG — DK (@DineshKarthik) October 23, 2023 × Tough pill to swallow for Pakistan but trust me this is not an upset. Afg came close to beating Pak in recent times as well but got over the line today thanks to top batting effort by the top 4. Very well played @ACBofficials 👏🏽 #PAKvAFG #CWC2023 pic.twitter.com/gquQ7fE5Ps — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) October 23, 2023 × FANS GO BERSERK The dance and Celebrations of Afghanistan tean and fans after won the match against Pakistan. - Historic moments for Afghanistan and their fans...!!! pic.twitter.com/G3HEVvzCP6 — CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) October 24, 2023 × Famous Scenes today in Chennai -Irfan Pathan dance with Rashid Khan - Ajay Jadeja owning Pakistan again -Indian and afghanistan fans dancing together outside Chepaukpic.twitter.com/bthKsoekvZ — ICT Fan (@Delphy06) October 23, 2023 × IRFAN CELEBRATES WITH RASHID & CO. 🎵 𝘑𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘫𝘰 𝘗𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯. 💙pic.twitter.com/ILMboJlItK — Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) October 23, 2023 × After the loss, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "This hurts us. We had a good total. In the bowling, we aren't up to the mark because we are not taking wickets in the middle overs. In the World Cup, if you are not good in even one department, then you'll lose the match." "In the field, we didn't stop boundaries and gave away runs, that cost us. Bowling - we started well, in the middle overs, we needed wickets but we couldn't take any wickets," said Babar about the shortcomings the team is facing. "All credit to Afghanistan the way they played in all three departments. That's why they won. We are not playing good cricket in bowling and fielding. We'll try our best in the next match. We didn't hit the lengths in the middle overs, especially our spinners. We couldn't put pressure on the batters," he added. Meanwhile, a jubilant Afghan skipper Shahidi said, "This win tastes nice. The way we chased was very professional. Looking forward for the other games. The way we chased today, we'll do it again. The quality cricket that we have been playing from the last couple of years, the belief was there when we were playing the Asia Cup also." At the start of the tournament, I said that we want to make this tournament historic for our country people. First was England, today Pakistan, looking forward for the other games. We'll try our best to play positive cricket and do a lot for our country in this World Cup. The spin bowling department did very well. We gave a chance to Noor and trusted in him, he showed his talent. The way Gurbaz and Ibrahim started the innings, they gave that momentum and confidence. The game was in our hand from the beginning till the end. The last partnership that me and Rahmat played was also good." Pakistan remain in the fifth spot (four points) after their third defeat on the trot whereas Afghanistan are now in the sixth position. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Isn't an upset, it's an uprise': SRT & others react; Afghanistan fans & players celebrate win vs Pakistan

<p>On Monday (Oct 23), former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away at the age of 77. The legendary spinner represented India in 67 Tests, ending with 266 wickets. In addition, he played 10 ODIs where he took seven wickets. Bedi ended his career, spanning from 1967 to 1979, ended with 14 five-wicket hauls and a solitary ten-fer in Tests. He is regarded as one of the finest spinners and his passing away has left a huge void in Indian cricket. After the shocking news broke out, many cricketers reacted to his&nbsp;demise&nbsp;and paid their heartfelt tribute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), former cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble,&nbsp;Gautam Gambhir,&nbsp;Irfan Pathan, Mohammad&nbsp;Azharuddin, Dinesh Karthik, Cheteshwar Pujara paid their heartfelt tribute to Bishan Singh Bedi. Among the current lot, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj, etc. have&nbsp;also reacted to the sad news.</p>

<p>The BCCI took to its official handle on X, formerly Twitter and wrote, "The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India Test Captain and legendary spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in these tough times. May his soul rest in peace."</p>

<p>Kumble -- one of India's finest spinners -- wrote, "Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah also said, "Sad to hear the demise of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi. Indian Cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler and his impeccable character. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India Test Captain and legendary spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi.<br />
<br />
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in these tough times.<br />
<br />
May his soul rest in peace 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/oYdJU0cBCV">pic.twitter.com/oYdJU0cBCV</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1716405951249744341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad to hear the demise of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi. Indian Cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler and his impeccable character. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and…</p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1716405116142764381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-legend-bishan-singh-bedi-passes-away-aged-77-650279">Legendary Indian cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi passes away aged 77</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji.<br />
My condolences to the family 🙏🏽</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1716436377150296392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Sashu," he'd say with warmth that only he possessed. To Bishan Paaji, I wasn't just another cricketer; I was like a son. Under his nurturing guidance, I scored my first 100 in England. On chilly NZ evenings, we'd sit over meals, and I'd hang on to every story he told, every… <a href="https://t.co/z0ahschCvp">pic.twitter.com/z0ahschCvp</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1716439364891501033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-remembering-legendary-former-india-captain-bishen-singh-bedi-650304">IN PICS – Remembering legendary former India captain Bishen Singh Bedi</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bishan singh bedi One of our best is no more. It’s a loss to our cricketing fraternity. My deep condolences to his family.</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1716399077595009349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Bishan Singh Bedi Sir, a legend and a true ambassador of the sport. His contribution to Indian cricket will be remembered forever.<br />
My heartfelt condolences to his family. <a href="https://t.co/VKGb5lCEcO">pic.twitter.com/VKGb5lCEcO</a></p>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1716405703106232793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.</p>
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1716405904827167168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My heartfelt condolences and thoughts with Bishan sir’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace 🙏</p>
— Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1/status/1716407118990045314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Extremely saddened by the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. His immense contribution to cricket will forever be remembered. May god give strength to his family and loved ones! <a href="https://t.co/zDpSd4aUp2">pic.twitter.com/zDpSd4aUp2</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1716408719133819118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A legend of Indian cricket. RIP Bishan Singh Bedi Sir. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones 🙏</p>
— Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/mdsirajofficial/status/1716406087493259302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’m sorry to hear about Bishan Singh Bedi sir’s passing away. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family.<br />
May his soul rest in peace. <a href="https://twitter.com/Imangadbedi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Imangadbedi</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fgw6tkAElx">pic.twitter.com/Fgw6tkAElx</a></p>
— Dr. (Hon) Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/azharflicks/status/1716408217235063084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Bedi was an orthodox left-arm spinner whose bowling action made heads turn and was described as&nbsp;the most textbook one out there. Apart from outfoxing batters with his spin, the former cricketer also led India. He succeeded the great&nbsp;Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi in 1976 with his first Test victory coming against the mighty West Indies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After his cricketing journey, Bedi honed the skills of the next crop of Indian cricketers and made a big mark on the domestic circuit. He was always known for calling a spade a spade and remained vocal on sharing his views on Indian cricket.&nbsp;</p>


On Monday (Oct 23), former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away at the age of 77. The legendary spinner represented India in 67 Tests, ending with 266 wickets.

On Monday (Oct 23), former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away at the age of 77. The legendary spinner represented India in 67 Tests, ending with 266 wickets. In addition, he played 10 ODIs where he took seven wickets. Bedi ended his career, spanning from 1967 to 1979, ended with 14 five-wicket hauls and a solitary ten-fer in Tests. He is regarded as one of the finest spinners and his passing away has left a huge void in Indian cricket. After the shocking news broke out, many cricketers reacted to his demise and paid their heartfelt tribute. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), former cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Gautam Gambhir, Irfan Pathan, Mohammad Azharuddin, Dinesh Karthik, Cheteshwar Pujara paid their heartfelt tribute to Bishan Singh Bedi. Among the current lot, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj, etc. have also reacted to the sad news. The BCCI took to its official handle on X, formerly Twitter and wrote, "The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India Test Captain and legendary spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in these tough times. May his soul rest in peace." Kumble -- one of India's finest spinners -- wrote, "Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones." Meanwhile, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah also said, "Sad to hear the demise of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi. Indian Cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler and his impeccable character. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time." The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India Test Captain and legendary spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in these tough times. May his soul rest in peace 🙏 pic.twitter.com/oYdJU0cBCV — BCCI (@BCCI) October 23, 2023 × Sad to hear the demise of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi. Indian Cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler and his impeccable character. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and… — Jay Shah (@JayShah) October 23, 2023 × Also read: Legendary Indian cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi passes away aged 77 Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. My condolences to the family 🙏🏽 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) October 23, 2023 × "Sashu," he'd say with warmth that only he possessed. To Bishan Paaji, I wasn't just another cricketer; I was like a son. Under his nurturing guidance, I scored my first 100 in England. On chilly NZ evenings, we'd sit over meals, and I'd hang on to every story he told, every… pic.twitter.com/z0ahschCvp — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 23, 2023 × Also read: IN PICS – Remembering legendary former India captain Bishen Singh Bedi Bishan singh bedi One of our best is no more. It’s a loss to our cricketing fraternity. My deep condolences to his family. — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 23, 2023 × Deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Bishan Singh Bedi Sir, a legend and a true ambassador of the sport. His contribution to Indian cricket will be remembered forever. My heartfelt condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/VKGb5lCEcO — DK (@DineshKarthik) October 23, 2023 × Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) October 23, 2023 × My heartfelt condolences and thoughts with Bishan sir’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace 🙏 — Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) October 23, 2023 × Extremely saddened by the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. His immense contribution to cricket will forever be remembered. May god give strength to his family and loved ones! pic.twitter.com/zDpSd4aUp2 — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) October 23, 2023 × A legend of Indian cricket. RIP Bishan Singh Bedi Sir. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones 🙏 — Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) October 23, 2023 × I’m sorry to hear about Bishan Singh Bedi sir’s passing away. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace. @Imangadbedi pic.twitter.com/Fgw6tkAElx — Dr. (Hon) Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) October 23, 2023 × Bedi was an orthodox left-arm spinner whose bowling action made heads turn and was described as the most textbook one out there. Apart from outfoxing batters with his spin, the former cricketer also led India. He succeeded the great Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi in 1976 with his first Test victory coming against the mighty West Indies. After his cricketing journey, Bedi honed the skills of the next crop of Indian cricketers and made a big mark on the domestic circuit. He was always known for calling a spade a spade and remained vocal on sharing his views on Indian cricket.

'His contribution will be remembered forever': Cricket fraternity mourns death of legend Bishan Singh Bedi

<p>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC) over alleged "inappropriate crowd behaviour" during the Men in Green's clash versus India in the 2023 ODI World Cup. The match was held on Oct 14 (Saturday) in the west Indian city of Ahmedabad, where Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Babar Azam's Pakistan by seven wickets. After PCB's complaint, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recalled a shocking story of being hit by a nail in India-Pakistan clash during his playing days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports, amid the ongoing India-Bangladesh tie in Pune on Thursday (Oct 19), Irfan recalled the shocking story which took place during his active days when India toured Pakistan (during 2004 and 2006).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'The match was halted for 10 minutes, but we did not pay any heed to it'</strong></h2>

<p>"We were playing a game in Peshawar, when a fan threw a nail at me, which struck me under my eye. I could have gotten seriously injured. The match was halted for 10 minutes, but we did not pay any heed to it as we were playing good cricket,” Pathan said on commentary.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-could-be-india-vs-new-zealand-in-cwc-23-final-former-indian-opener-makes-bold-claim-648795">It could be India vs New Zealand in CWC '23 final: Former Indian opener makes BOLD claim</a></strong></p>

<p>After this, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, to react to Irfan's revelations. He wrote, "Didn’t know that fans in Peshawar threw a nail at Irfan, which hit him under the eye. Remember the game getting stopped for a bit bcoz of fan trouble but it’s only today I got to know the exact reason. Well done."</p>

<p>To this, Irfan was quick to respond and replied saying, "I Would have taken to my grave brother cos I think fans are the utmost important to this game and things do happen. But the narrative is set differently now days with some ppl trying to spread unnecessary negativity for their own benefit. So i spoke. Love you brother."</p>

<p>Irfan shared the incident following PCB's formal complaint, raising issue on the treatment given to Pakistani cricketers during the India clash. "The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged another formal protest with the ICC over delays in visas for Pakistani journalists and the absence of a visa policy for Pakistan fans for the ongoing World Cup 2023. The PCB has also filed a complaint regarding inappropriate conduct targeted at the Pakistan squad during the India vs Pakistan match held on 14 October 2023," PCB posted on X.</p>

<p>At present, Pakistan occupy the fourth spot in the points table with two wins and a heavy defeat versus India. The hosts, with three back-to-back wins, are at the second spot with unbeaten New Zealand on top.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC) over alleged "inappropriate crowd behaviour" during the Men in Green's clash versus India in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC) over alleged "inappropriate crowd behaviour" during the Men in Green's clash versus India in the 2023 ODI World Cup. The match was held on Oct 14 (Saturday) in the west Indian city of Ahmedabad, where Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Babar Azam's Pakistan by seven wickets. After PCB's complaint, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recalled a shocking story of being hit by a nail in India-Pakistan clash during his playing days. Speaking on Star Sports, amid the ongoing India-Bangladesh tie in Pune on Thursday (Oct 19), Irfan recalled the shocking story which took place during his active days when India toured Pakistan (during 2004 and 2006). 'The match was halted for 10 minutes, but we did not pay any heed to it' "We were playing a game in Peshawar, when a fan threw a nail at me, which struck me under my eye. I could have gotten seriously injured. The match was halted for 10 minutes, but we did not pay any heed to it as we were playing good cricket,” Pathan said on commentary. Also read: It could be India vs New Zealand in CWC '23 final: Former Indian opener makes BOLD claim After this, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, to react to Irfan's revelations. He wrote, "Didn’t know that fans in Peshawar threw a nail at Irfan, which hit him under the eye. Remember the game getting stopped for a bit bcoz of fan trouble but it’s only today I got to know the exact reason. Well done." To this, Irfan was quick to respond and replied saying, "I Would have taken to my grave brother cos I think fans are the utmost important to this game and things do happen. But the narrative is set differently now days with some ppl trying to spread unnecessary negativity for their own benefit. So i spoke. Love you brother." Irfan shared the incident following PCB's formal complaint, raising issue on the treatment given to Pakistani cricketers during the India clash. "The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged another formal protest with the ICC over delays in visas for Pakistani journalists and the absence of a visa policy for Pakistan fans for the ongoing World Cup 2023. The PCB has also filed a complaint regarding inappropriate conduct targeted at the Pakistan squad during the India vs Pakistan match held on 14 October 2023," PCB posted on X. At present, Pakistan occupy the fourth spot in the points table with two wins and a heavy defeat versus India. The hosts, with three back-to-back wins, are at the second spot with unbeaten New Zealand on top. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SHOCKING! As PCB complains about Indian crowd in CWC '23, Irfan Pathan recalls how Pak fan threw nail at him

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India have been in top form in the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition at home. After three games, the Men in Blue have&nbsp;equal number of wins and&nbsp;are at the top in the points table. So far, India have beaten Australia, Afghanistan and Pakistan and will now face Bangladesh in match 17 of the ten-team tournament at the MCA Stadium in Pune on Thursday (Oct 19). Ahead of the India-Bangladesh tie, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Khan has lavished praise on Rohit. Irfan feels Rohit has been displaying the most aggressive approach among all captains in the competition.</p>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan opined on Rohit&nbsp;defending in the net session, in Pune,&nbsp;something he hasn't done in the matches so far. To this, he said, "This is a backfoot punch for four. It is his timing. He is in very good form. The way he is leaving deliveries, it means he is not just coming and playing carelessly in the nets, and just playing the big shots." He further opined, "He is going with full confidence into the practice but is still respecting the balls that need to be respected, but Rohit Sharma has adopted the most aggressive approach among all captains in this World Cup, which is not easy."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-lucky-to-get-kohli-out-5-times-he-is-the-best-batter-says-shakib-ahead-of-ind-vs-ban-tie-648365">ODI World Cup: Lucky to get Kohli out 5 times, he is the best batter, says Shakib ahead of Ind vs Ban tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Irfan added, "We won't get tired of praising him because he deserves praise considering the responsibility he has shouldered. He is playing shots extremely easily. You might see defensive as well as big shots in practice, but he will keep his attacking approach in the match. All batters and bowlers you saw in practice, they were looking in great control when they were practicing and I was seeing them on the ground as well. They were relaxed and played foot volleyball for half an hour before the Pakistan match."</p>

<p>Rohit has been in top form both as captain and player in the home ODI World Cup. He has made some good bowling changes, been at-par with his team combination and has scored 217 runs in three outings -- including a hundred and a fifty. After falling for a duck in India's tournament-opener, versus Australia, he has played aggressively from the word go versus the Afghans and arch-rivals Pakistan to set the tone for the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will now face the Bangla Tigers on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune and hope to make it four wins on the trot in the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Rohit Sharma-led India have been in top form in the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition at home. After three games, the Men in Blue have equal number of wins and are at the top in the points table.

Rohit Sharma-led India have been in top form in the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition at home. After three games, the Men in Blue have equal number of wins and are at the top in the points table. So far, India have beaten Australia, Afghanistan and Pakistan and will now face Bangladesh in match 17 of the ten-team tournament at the MCA Stadium in Pune on Thursday (Oct 19). Ahead of the India-Bangladesh tie, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Khan has lavished praise on Rohit. Irfan feels Rohit has been displaying the most aggressive approach among all captains in the competition. Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan opined on Rohit defending in the net session, in Pune, something he hasn't done in the matches so far. To this, he said, "This is a backfoot punch for four. It is his timing. He is in very good form. The way he is leaving deliveries, it means he is not just coming and playing carelessly in the nets, and just playing the big shots." He further opined, "He is going with full confidence into the practice but is still respecting the balls that need to be respected, but Rohit Sharma has adopted the most aggressive approach among all captains in this World Cup, which is not easy." Also read: ODI World Cup: Lucky to get Kohli out 5 times, he is the best batter, says Shakib ahead of Ind vs Ban tie Irfan added, "We won't get tired of praising him because he deserves praise considering the responsibility he has shouldered. He is playing shots extremely easily. You might see defensive as well as big shots in practice, but he will keep his attacking approach in the match. All batters and bowlers you saw in practice, they were looking in great control when they were practicing and I was seeing them on the ground as well. They were relaxed and played foot volleyball for half an hour before the Pakistan match." Rohit has been in top form both as captain and player in the home ODI World Cup. He has made some good bowling changes, been at-par with his team combination and has scored 217 runs in three outings -- including a hundred and a fifty. After falling for a duck in India's tournament-opener, versus Australia, he has played aggressively from the word go versus the Afghans and arch-rivals Pakistan to set the tone for the team. Rohit-led India will now face the Bangla Tigers on Thursday (Oct 19) in Pune and hope to make it four wins on the trot in the tournament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohit has adopted the most aggressive approach among all captains in ODI World Cup 2023, says Irfan

<p>Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan believes England should bring all-rounder Ben Stokes into the playing XI, even if he is not fully fit, at the ongoing World Cup in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pathan's remarks come after England suffered a morale-downing defeat against Afghanistan on Sunday (Oct 15) where the team sorely missed someone like Stokes to steer the ship when things went south.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Bring in Ben Stokes even if he is 99 per cent&nbsp;fit. You need him. You brought him for his experience. They won't have a chance to come back if they lose the next match. It won't happen every time," said Pathan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pathan reflected on England's 2019 WC Campaign where the team lost three games in the league stage and yet managed to emerge with the ultimate prize.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the 2019 World Cup, England lost three matches. They lost to Sri Lanka, Pakistan and one more match. They became the world champions despite that. So it's not that everything is over but if they get too late in playing their main team and their better bowlers, they will not be able to catch the wagon."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-many-players-are-undercooked-former-cricketer-slams-england-after-big-defeat-vs-afghanistan-647399"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;CWC '23: 'Many players are undercooked' - Former cricketer slams England after big defeat vs Afghanistan</strong></a></p>

<h2><b>Stokes unretired&nbsp;for WC</b></h2>

<p>The former England captain has missed all three World Cup games so far due to a hip injury. There were rumours that Stokes would start the match against Afghanistan as he was seen warming up at the Arun Jaitley Stadium but the playing XI had his name missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stokes had retired from the ODI format in July last year and only came into the World Cup reckoning less than two months before the start of the marquee tournament when he unretired himself.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite struggling with the bowling load, Stokes can deliver a few overs in the middle if required and simultaneously play as a specialist batter. His knack for bailing the team from tricky situations is something that England desperately want, especially in the subcontinent conditions, cricket pundits argue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday (Oct 15), a maverick Afghanistan beat world champions England by 69 runs, whilst defending a target of 285 on a flat Delhi pitch. The Afghans dominated the match from the beginning as openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran smashed English bowlers to all parts of the park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the chase, the Afghan spinners weaved a web around the English batters and neutralised them completely to walk away with a historic win.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan believes England should bring all-rounder Ben Stokes into the playing XI, even if he is not fully fit, at the ongoing World Cup in India.

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan believes England should bring all-rounder Ben Stokes into the playing XI, even if he is not fully fit, at the ongoing World Cup in India. Pathan's remarks come after England suffered a morale-downing defeat against Afghanistan on Sunday (Oct 15) where the team sorely missed someone like Stokes to steer the ship when things went south. "Bring in Ben Stokes even if he is 99 per cent fit. You need him. You brought him for his experience. They won't have a chance to come back if they lose the next match. It won't happen every time," said Pathan. Pathan reflected on England's 2019 WC Campaign where the team lost three games in the league stage and yet managed to emerge with the ultimate prize. "In the 2019 World Cup, England lost three matches. They lost to Sri Lanka, Pakistan and one more match. They became the world champions despite that. So it's not that everything is over but if they get too late in playing their main team and their better bowlers, they will not be able to catch the wagon." Also read | CWC '23: 'Many players are undercooked' - Former cricketer slams England after big defeat vs Afghanistan Stokes unretired for WC The former England captain has missed all three World Cup games so far due to a hip injury. There were rumours that Stokes would start the match against Afghanistan as he was seen warming up at the Arun Jaitley Stadium but the playing XI had his name missing. Stokes had retired from the ODI format in July last year and only came into the World Cup reckoning less than two months before the start of the marquee tournament when he unretired himself. Despite struggling with the bowling load, Stokes can deliver a few overs in the middle if required and simultaneously play as a specialist batter. His knack for bailing the team from tricky situations is something that England desperately want, especially in the subcontinent conditions, cricket pundits argue. On Sunday (Oct 15), a maverick Afghanistan beat world champions England by 69 runs, whilst defending a target of 285 on a flat Delhi pitch. The Afghans dominated the match from the beginning as openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran smashed English bowlers to all parts of the park. During the chase, the Afghan spinners weaved a web around the English batters and neutralised them completely to walk away with a historic win. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Cup 2023: Former Indian cricketer wants England to play Ben Stokes even if he's not fully fit

<p>India beat Afghanistan by eight wickets in pursuit of 273 in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup&nbsp;2023 edition on Wednesday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. After losing the toss, India were asked to bowl first and rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 4 for 39, on a pitch akin for batters, as Afghanistan posted a healthy 272 for 8. The Afghans rode on their skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi's 80 and&nbsp;Azmatullah Omarzai (61) but could have scored much more, even more than 300, but Bumrah restricted the opposition with some stunning bowling and regular breakthroughs.</p>

<p>In reply, India completed the run-chase in a jiffy courtesy of Rohit Sharma's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out. Rohit ended as the Player-of-the-Match for his berserk knock, coming off 84 balls, but many also lauded Bumrah for his stellar show with the ball.</p>

<p>After the match, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan, speaking to Star Sports, said, "You won't get a better bowler than him in the entire world. If you focus on his action, you will come to know how he uses his variations. He first sets up the batters with inswing, creates a cluster, and then bowls outswing without any change in action and deceives the batters."</p>

<p>"A bowler who bowls at 140 kph, inswing and outswing at one spot, bouncers, slower ones, yorkers, you won't get anywhere. The angle from which he bowls, his pitch map will be outside the off stump. The ball will come in from there and can go away as well," Irfan further pointed out.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-rohit-is-an-odi-beast-does-not-chopra-hails-hitman-after-indias-easy-win-vs-afghanistan-645867">CWC '23: 'Rohit is an ODI beast, does not...'- Chopra HAILS Hitman after India's easy win vs Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Irfan added, "If you focus on his wrists and seam position, the seam position is towards fine leg when he bowls inswing and towards slip when he bowls outswing. There is no change in action, just the wrist's control and balance. This is praiseworthy bowling and it is impossible for the batter to pick it at a speed of 140 kph."</p>

<p>Bumrah ended with his best figures in an ODI World Cup match during the Afghanistan face-off in the national capital. Ever since his international comeback, following a lengthy injury layoff, he has been among wickets in every game and will like to continue in a similar manner going ahead in India's CWC 2023 campaign.</p>

<p>India will next face arch-rivals Pakistan in match 12 of CWC 2023 edition on Saturday (Oct 14) in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India beat Afghanistan by eight wickets in pursuit of 273 in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Wednesday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

India beat Afghanistan by eight wickets in pursuit of 273 in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Wednesday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. After losing the toss, India were asked to bowl first and rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 4 for 39, on a pitch akin for batters, as Afghanistan posted a healthy 272 for 8. The Afghans rode on their skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi's 80 and Azmatullah Omarzai (61) but could have scored much more, even more than 300, but Bumrah restricted the opposition with some stunning bowling and regular breakthroughs. In reply, India completed the run-chase in a jiffy courtesy of Rohit Sharma's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out. Rohit ended as the Player-of-the-Match for his berserk knock, coming off 84 balls, but many also lauded Bumrah for his stellar show with the ball. After the match, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan, speaking to Star Sports, said, "You won't get a better bowler than him in the entire world. If you focus on his action, you will come to know how he uses his variations. He first sets up the batters with inswing, creates a cluster, and then bowls outswing without any change in action and deceives the batters." "A bowler who bowls at 140 kph, inswing and outswing at one spot, bouncers, slower ones, yorkers, you won't get anywhere. The angle from which he bowls, his pitch map will be outside the off stump. The ball will come in from there and can go away as well," Irfan further pointed out. Also read: CWC '23: 'Rohit is an ODI beast, does not...'- Chopra HAILS Hitman after India's easy win vs Afghanistan Irfan added, "If you focus on his wrists and seam position, the seam position is towards fine leg when he bowls inswing and towards slip when he bowls outswing. There is no change in action, just the wrist's control and balance. This is praiseworthy bowling and it is impossible for the batter to pick it at a speed of 140 kph." Bumrah ended with his best figures in an ODI World Cup match during the Afghanistan face-off in the national capital. Ever since his international comeback, following a lengthy injury layoff, he has been among wickets in every game and will like to continue in a similar manner going ahead in India's CWC 2023 campaign. India will next face arch-rivals Pakistan in match 12 of CWC 2023 edition on Saturday (Oct 14) in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: 'Won't get a better bowler than Jasprit Bumrah' - Irfan Pathan in awe of India pacer

<p>India beat Australia in match 5 of CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p>Being asked to bowl first, Indian bowlers restricted Australia to 199 in 49.3 overs with Ravindra Jadeja accounting for 3 for 28, along with two-fers from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav each. In reply, the Men in Blue were 2 for 3 before a 165-run third-wicket stand between KL Rahul (97 not out) and Virat Kohli (85) stole the show and took India home with six wickets, and 52 balls, to spare. Thus, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have opened their CWC 2023 campaign in style.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the win, many former cricketers and experts of the game lauded Rahul and Kohli for battling a tough period early in the run-chase, buying out some time in the middle, keeping the scoreboard ticking before taking on the attack.</p>

<p>Talking about Rahul, the keeper-batter has been in exceptional form ever since he made his international comeback -- from a hip injury suffered in IPL 2023 -- during the Asia Cup. Since his return, he has had scores of 111*, 39, 19, 58*, 52, 26 and 97*. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished huge praise on the 31-year-old Rahul.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'KL Rahul doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Irfan analysed Rahul's successful approach post his return and said, "He's been looking very calm. He doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before, now he looks like he's soaking that pressure, and it can be seen in the result. And because of that, he doesn't even seem like he's going to get out while he is batting. He's getting beaten less. That doesn't mean one doesn't get beaten."</p>

<p>He added, "There seems to be control, he's finding the singles, playing the big shots, he's also using the sweep shots, seems to be having a lot of time while pulling the ball. He has worked a lot on his technique, but most importantly he looks like a much better version of himself than before."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-always-performs-on-the-big-stage-sehwag-lauds-star-batter-after-indias-cwc-23-win-over-australia-644513">Kohli always performs on the big stage - Sehwag LAUDS star batter after India's CWC '23 win over Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian team management would be mighty pleased with the batting effort as Rahul-Kohli ensured the hosts recovered from early setbacks to win the contest. After this win, India will now shift their focus to their next game, where they take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct&nbsp;11) in New Delhi, India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will be keen to make it two wins in a row and continue moving forward in the ten-team tournament at home.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India beat Australia in match 5 of CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Indian bowlers restricted Australia to 199 in 49.

India beat Australia in match 5 of CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Indian bowlers restricted Australia to 199 in 49.3 overs with Ravindra Jadeja accounting for 3 for 28, along with two-fers from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav each. In reply, the Men in Blue were 2 for 3 before a 165-run third-wicket stand between KL Rahul (97 not out) and Virat Kohli (85) stole the show and took India home with six wickets, and 52 balls, to spare. Thus, Rohit Sharma & Co. have opened their CWC 2023 campaign in style. After the win, many former cricketers and experts of the game lauded Rahul and Kohli for battling a tough period early in the run-chase, buying out some time in the middle, keeping the scoreboard ticking before taking on the attack. Talking about Rahul, the keeper-batter has been in exceptional form ever since he made his international comeback -- from a hip injury suffered in IPL 2023 -- during the Asia Cup. Since his return, he has had scores of 111*, 39, 19, 58*, 52, 26 and 97*. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished huge praise on the 31-year-old Rahul. 'KL Rahul doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before' Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Irfan analysed Rahul's successful approach post his return and said, "He's been looking very calm. He doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before, now he looks like he's soaking that pressure, and it can be seen in the result. And because of that, he doesn't even seem like he's going to get out while he is batting. He's getting beaten less. That doesn't mean one doesn't get beaten." He added, "There seems to be control, he's finding the singles, playing the big shots, he's also using the sweep shots, seems to be having a lot of time while pulling the ball. He has worked a lot on his technique, but most importantly he looks like a much better version of himself than before." Also read: Kohli always performs on the big stage - Sehwag LAUDS star batter after India's CWC '23 win over Australia The Indian team management would be mighty pleased with the batting effort as Rahul-Kohli ensured the hosts recovered from early setbacks to win the contest. After this win, India will now shift their focus to their next game, where they take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi, India. Rohit-led India will be keen to make it two wins in a row and continue moving forward in the ten-team tournament at home. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

KL Rahul looks like a much better version of himself, says Irfan Pathan after India beat Australia in CWC 2023

<p>Former India speedster Irfan Pathan has questioned the involvement of 2011 World Cup winner and star man Ravichandran Ashwin in the upcoming ODI series against Australia. The Indian team announced on Tuesday, September 20 saw the return of the veteran player before the ODI World Cup next month. His return though has now sparked debate, with India already riding high on the services of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel while Yuzvendra Chahal was dropped for the marquee tournament.</p>

<h2><strong>Irfan questions Ashwin’s involvement</strong></h2>

<p>"You get a better spinner than Ashwin in the entire world. But in a tournament as big as the World Cup, where there is immense pressure, you can't expect a senior player to walk in and play for the team in a format which he hasn't played for a long time and prove his worth,” Irfan said while speaking to Star Sports.</p>

<p>“So you are leaving it entirely to fate. There is no planning here. Had there been a plan for Ashwin, they should have given him some game time before the World Cup,” Irfan added.</p>

<p>The Indian team management opted to rest Kuldeep for the first two matches of the ODI series against Australia along with regular captain Rohit Sharma and senior players, such as Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya. The backlash is the result of Ravichandran Ashwin being out of action in ODI cricket for the last 18 months. His last game for the nation in the ODI format came in January 2022 against South Africa and has since been out of the ODI team while only participating in the Test format.</p>

<p>According to Irfan, lack of playing time could be a big factor during the World Cup while India also have better options. It is worth noting&nbsp;that India dropped Yuzvendra Chahal for the World Cup and opted for Axar Patel and Kuldeep.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-brazilian-footballer-to-visit-indias-kolkata-before-durga-puja-in-october-find-itinerary-details-637659">Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details</a></p>

<h2><strong>IND vs AUS starts on Friday</strong></h2>

<p>India will start the start three-match ODI series against Australia on Friday, September 22 as they will take on a strong side led by returning skipper Pat Cummins. The match will take place at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Big names like Virat and Rohit will return to the squad for the final ODI in Rajkot next Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for first two ODIs</strong></p>

<p>KL Rahul (captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, J Bumrah, M Siraj, M Shami, Tilak Varma, Prasidh Krishna, R Ashwin, Washington Sundar</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Former India speedster Irfan Pathan has questioned the involvement of 2011 World Cup winner and star man Ravichandran Ashwin in the upcoming ODI series against Australia.

Former India speedster Irfan Pathan has questioned the involvement of 2011 World Cup winner and star man Ravichandran Ashwin in the upcoming ODI series against Australia. The Indian team announced on Tuesday, September 20 saw the return of the veteran player before the ODI World Cup next month. His return though has now sparked debate, with India already riding high on the services of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel while Yuzvendra Chahal was dropped for the marquee tournament. Irfan questions Ashwin’s involvement "You get a better spinner than Ashwin in the entire world. But in a tournament as big as the World Cup, where there is immense pressure, you can't expect a senior player to walk in and play for the team in a format which he hasn't played for a long time and prove his worth,” Irfan said while speaking to Star Sports. “So you are leaving it entirely to fate. There is no planning here. Had there been a plan for Ashwin, they should have given him some game time before the World Cup,” Irfan added. The Indian team management opted to rest Kuldeep for the first two matches of the ODI series against Australia along with regular captain Rohit Sharma and senior players, such as Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya. The backlash is the result of Ravichandran Ashwin being out of action in ODI cricket for the last 18 months. His last game for the nation in the ODI format came in January 2022 against South Africa and has since been out of the ODI team while only participating in the Test format. According to Irfan, lack of playing time could be a big factor during the World Cup while India also have better options. It is worth noting that India dropped Yuzvendra Chahal for the World Cup and opted for Axar Patel and Kuldeep. ALSO READ | Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details IND vs AUS starts on Friday India will start the start three-match ODI series against Australia on Friday, September 22 as they will take on a strong side led by returning skipper Pat Cummins. The match will take place at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Big names like Virat and Rohit will return to the squad for the final ODI in Rajkot next Wednesday. India’s squad for first two ODIs KL Rahul (captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, J Bumrah, M Siraj, M Shami, Tilak Varma, Prasidh Krishna, R Ashwin, Washington Sundar WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs AUS: Irfan Pathan questions THIS star player's involvement before WC, 'you get a better spinner...'

<p>On Monday (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's squads for the upcoming Australia home ODIs -- which gets underway on Friday (September 22).</p>

<p>The selection committee have finalised two squads -- one for the first two games and the series finale with KL Rahul to lead the former and Rohit Sharma to take charge of the side for the final ODI.</p>

<p>While R Ashwin's return made heads turn, Sanju Samson's name was missing from the two squads with Tilak Varma and Ruturaj Gaikwad getting the nod ahead of him.</p>

<p>Following Samson's shocking omission, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan took to his official account on X, formerly known as Twitter, to react to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper's non-selection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If I’m in place of Sanju Samson right now I will be very disappointed," Pathan wrote on Twitter.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If I’m in place of <a href="https://twitter.com/IamSanjuSamson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamSanjuSamson</a> right now I will be very disappointed…</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1703835332439904545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-team-india-make-the-cut-as-former-aussie-stumper-adam-gilchrist-predicts-semi-finalists-637503">CWC 2023: Team India make the cut as former Aussie stumper Adam Gilchrist predicts semi-finalists</a></strong></p>

<p>Samson's has been a curious case. While he has never got a long rope in the white-ball setup, he has done reasonably well in ODIs.</p>

<p>In 13 ODIs, he has 390 runs at an average of&nbsp;55.71 along with three half-centuries.</p>

<p>Many might say that he has done much better than Suryakumar Yadav, who continues to be backed in the ODI squad, but Samson has often thrown away his wicket after getting starts or scoring a fifty.</p>

<p>Moreover, the Indian team management has kept faith in Surya due to his T20I heroics and hopes for him to turn the tides in the shorter format as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Samson will feel unlucky to have not made it to the India squad, for the Australia ODIs, with Varma and Gaikwad -- who is set to lead India in the Asian Games 2023 -- to have got the nod ahead of him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;</b>KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.</p>

<p><b>For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;</b>Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


On Monday (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's squads for the upcoming Australia home ODIs -- which gets underway on Friday (September 22).

On Monday (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's squads for the upcoming Australia home ODIs -- which gets underway on Friday (September 22). The selection committee have finalised two squads -- one for the first two games and the series finale with KL Rahul to lead the former and Rohit Sharma to take charge of the side for the final ODI. While R Ashwin's return made heads turn, Sanju Samson's name was missing from the two squads with Tilak Varma and Ruturaj Gaikwad getting the nod ahead of him. Following Samson's shocking omission, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan took to his official account on X, formerly known as Twitter, to react to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper's non-selection. "If I’m in place of Sanju Samson right now I will be very disappointed," Pathan wrote on Twitter. If I’m in place of @IamSanjuSamson right now I will be very disappointed… — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) September 18, 2023 × Also read: CWC 2023: Team India make the cut as former Aussie stumper Adam Gilchrist predicts semi-finalists Samson's has been a curious case. While he has never got a long rope in the white-ball setup, he has done reasonably well in ODIs. In 13 ODIs, he has 390 runs at an average of 55.71 along with three half-centuries. Many might say that he has done much better than Suryakumar Yadav, who continues to be backed in the ODI squad, but Samson has often thrown away his wicket after getting starts or scoring a fifty. Moreover, the Indian team management has kept faith in Surya due to his T20I heroics and hopes for him to turn the tides in the shorter format as well. However, Samson will feel unlucky to have not made it to the India squad, for the Australia ODIs, with Varma and Gaikwad -- who is set to lead India in the Asian Games 2023 -- to have got the nod ahead of him. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Aus ODIs: 'Would be disappointed if...' - Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Sanju Samson's omission

<p>Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 5. Axar is currently out of action&nbsp;after suffering a left quadriceps strain during the just-concluded Asia Cup 2023 edition, won by Rohit Sharma-led India on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo.</p>

<p>India had a good run in Asia Cup 2023. They were tested on many occasions but romped past Sri Lanka in the final to win by 10&nbsp;wickets after Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 demolished the Lankans for a mere 50 in 15.2 overs. Later, India chased down the score with 10 wickets and 263&nbsp;balls to spare.</p>

<p>While there were&nbsp;plenty of positives for Team India, some injury concerns remain in their preparations for CWC 2023. With Shreyas Iyer's back issues persisting, Axar's injury is also a cause of concern.</p>

<p>Irfan feels Axar will be vital to India's chances as his batting is needed at No. 8.</p>

<p>"He got hit in two or three places, so we don't know how serious it is. However, he is an extremely fit guy, which means he might recover quicker and it's not that he is a very aged player. It is extremely necessary for the Indian team to get him fit and come back. I feel India will need his batting at No. 8 because he has shown form on Sri Lankan pitches where it is slightly difficult to bat," Pathan said during a discussion on Star Sports.</p>

<p>Axar suffered the injury during India's close loss to Bangladesh in the Super Four stage on Friday (September 15).</p>

<p>During India's tricky 266-run chase versus the Bangla Tigers, Axar kept India's hopes alive -- after centurion Shubman Gill's departure (121) -- with a fine 42 before falling in the penultimate over. His batting has improved significantly, across formats, in the last one year and, hence, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will hope for his quick recovery.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kohli-or-bumrah-pak-great-wasim-akram-names-who-will-be-rohit-led-indias-main-weapon-in-cwc-2023-637142">Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Asked about Axar's&nbsp;likely replacement if the spin-bowling all-rounder fails to recover before CWC 2023's commencement, Piyush Chawla -- also part of the same discussion -- made his choice known.&nbsp;"If Axar Patel doesn't get fit, we see Washington Sundar only in his place because once he came, he straightaway played in the final of the Asia Cup. It means the team have shown a lot of confidence in him, so Washington Sundar."</p>

<p>Axar is likely to remain out of India's upcoming three-match ODI series versus Australia, at home, which starts on September 22 (Friday) in Mohali.</p>

<p>If not all the games, he is expected to be out for the opening two encounters.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 5.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 5. Axar is currently out of action after suffering a left quadriceps strain during the just-concluded Asia Cup 2023 edition, won by Rohit Sharma-led India on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo. India had a good run in Asia Cup 2023. They were tested on many occasions but romped past Sri Lanka in the final to win by 10 wickets after Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 demolished the Lankans for a mere 50 in 15.2 overs. Later, India chased down the score with 10 wickets and 263 balls to spare. While there were plenty of positives for Team India, some injury concerns remain in their preparations for CWC 2023. With Shreyas Iyer's back issues persisting, Axar's injury is also a cause of concern. Irfan feels Axar will be vital to India's chances as his batting is needed at No. 8. "He got hit in two or three places, so we don't know how serious it is. However, he is an extremely fit guy, which means he might recover quicker and it's not that he is a very aged player. It is extremely necessary for the Indian team to get him fit and come back. I feel India will need his batting at No. 8 because he has shown form on Sri Lankan pitches where it is slightly difficult to bat," Pathan said during a discussion on Star Sports. Axar suffered the injury during India's close loss to Bangladesh in the Super Four stage on Friday (September 15). During India's tricky 266-run chase versus the Bangla Tigers, Axar kept India's hopes alive -- after centurion Shubman Gill's departure (121) -- with a fine 42 before falling in the penultimate over. His batting has improved significantly, across formats, in the last one year and, hence, Rohit Sharma & Co. will hope for his quick recovery. Also read: Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023 Asked about Axar's likely replacement if the spin-bowling all-rounder fails to recover before CWC 2023's commencement, Piyush Chawla -- also part of the same discussion -- made his choice known. "If Axar Patel doesn't get fit, we see Washington Sundar only in his place because once he came, he straightaway played in the final of the Asia Cup. It means the team have shown a lot of confidence in him, so Washington Sundar." Axar is likely to remain out of India's upcoming three-match ODI series versus Australia, at home, which starts on September 22 (Friday) in Mohali. If not all the games, he is expected to be out for the opening two encounters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Team India will need Axar Patel's batting at No. 8 in CWC 2023, feels Irfan Pathan

<p>Team India have been in top form in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, having sealed a place in the final of the tournament on Tuesday, September 12. The 41-run win against co-hosts Sri Lanka saw the Men in Blue book their place in the final with top-quality spin highlighting the day. Ravindra Jadeja was also seen in fine touch as he scalped two wickets while India defended a lowly total of 213 runs. In doing so, he now holds a unique feat for Team India as they look forward to the final on Sunday.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Consecutive wins in Colombo for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🙌<br />
<br />
Kuldeep Yadav wraps things up in style as India complete a 41-run victory over Sri Lanka 👏👏<br />
<br />
Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/P0ylBAiETu">https://t.co/P0ylBAiETu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/HUVtGvRpnG">pic.twitter.com/HUVtGvRpnG</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1701652534228820092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Jadeja adds another feather in his hat</strong></h2>

<p>Having scalped two wickets in the Super Four clash, he now is India’s leading wicket-taker in the Asia Cup (ODIs only) with 24. He leapfrogged Irfan Pathan’s tally of 22 wickets after dismissing&nbsp;Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka on the first ball of the 26th over. He would later dismiss firmly settled Dhananjaya de Silva (41) on the third ball of the 38th over leading to Sri Lanka’s downfall. The latter wicket also opened the gates for India to register yet another win in Asia Cup.</p>

<p>Jadeja, though, could face tough competition for the top spot in Asia Cup from compatriot Kuldeep Yadav. The left-arm spinner has 19 wickets and is five behind Jadeja sitting third in the standings.</p>

<p><strong>Most Wickets for India in Asia Cup (ODIs)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Ravindra Jadeja* – 24 Wickets</strong></p>

<p>Irfan Pathan – 22 Wickets</p>

<p>Kuldeep Yadav* – 19 Wickets</p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar – 17 Wickets</p>

<p>Kapil Dev – 15 Wickets</p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin – 14 Wickets</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-spinners-headline-low-scoring-affair-as-india-register-41-run-win-to-book-place-in-sundays-final-635405">Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final</a></p>

<p>Overall, Jadeja is six wickets behind record holder Muttiah Muralitharan who is sitting tight with 30 wickets followed by Lasith Malinga at 29. Ajantha Mendis and Saeed Ajmal complete the rest of the top five for most wickets in Asia Cup ODIs.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in the contest vs Sri Lanka?</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma’s Team India has reached the final of the Asia Cup 2023 after a spin-dominated day in Colombo. Spinners from both sides were in top form as they scalped 16 wickets in total, with India’s entire batting unit falling prey to the exploits of Dunith Wellalage (5 wickets) and Charith Asalanka (4 wickets), while Kuldeep was once again on song with four wickets for Team India.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Team India have been in top form in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, having sealed a place in the final of the tournament on Tuesday, September 12. The 41-run win against co-hosts Sri Lanka saw the Men in Blue book their place in the final with top-quality spin highlighting the day.

Team India have been in top form in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, having sealed a place in the final of the tournament on Tuesday, September 12. The 41-run win against co-hosts Sri Lanka saw the Men in Blue book their place in the final with top-quality spin highlighting the day. Ravindra Jadeja was also seen in fine touch as he scalped two wickets while India defended a lowly total of 213 runs. In doing so, he now holds a unique feat for Team India as they look forward to the final on Sunday. Consecutive wins in Colombo for #TeamIndia 🙌 Kuldeep Yadav wraps things up in style as India complete a 41-run victory over Sri Lanka 👏👏 Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/P0ylBAiETu#AsiaCup2023 | #INDvSL pic.twitter.com/HUVtGvRpnG — BCCI (@BCCI) September 12, 2023 × Jadeja adds another feather in his hat Having scalped two wickets in the Super Four clash, he now is India’s leading wicket-taker in the Asia Cup (ODIs only) with 24. He leapfrogged Irfan Pathan’s tally of 22 wickets after dismissing Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka on the first ball of the 26th over. He would later dismiss firmly settled Dhananjaya de Silva (41) on the third ball of the 38th over leading to Sri Lanka’s downfall. The latter wicket also opened the gates for India to register yet another win in Asia Cup. Jadeja, though, could face tough competition for the top spot in Asia Cup from compatriot Kuldeep Yadav. The left-arm spinner has 19 wickets and is five behind Jadeja sitting third in the standings. Most Wickets for India in Asia Cup (ODIs) Ravindra Jadeja* – 24 Wickets Irfan Pathan – 22 Wickets Kuldeep Yadav* – 19 Wickets Sachin Tendulkar – 17 Wickets Kapil Dev – 15 Wickets Ravichandran Ashwin – 14 Wickets ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final Overall, Jadeja is six wickets behind record holder Muttiah Muralitharan who is sitting tight with 30 wickets followed by Lasith Malinga at 29. Ajantha Mendis and Saeed Ajmal complete the rest of the top five for most wickets in Asia Cup ODIs. What happened in the contest vs Sri Lanka? Rohit Sharma’s Team India has reached the final of the Asia Cup 2023 after a spin-dominated day in Colombo. Spinners from both sides were in top form as they scalped 16 wickets in total, with India’s entire batting unit falling prey to the exploits of Dunith Wellalage (5 wickets) and Charith Asalanka (4 wickets), while Kuldeep was once again on song with four wickets for Team India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Ravindra Jadeja leapfrogs Irfan Pathan in THIS tally after narrow win vs Sri Lanka

<p>Ravindra Jadeja added another feather to his illustrious hat during India's group stage face-off with Nepal in match 5 of Asia Cup 2023, on Monday (September 04) in Kandy. After India's opening game versus Pakistan&nbsp;was washed out due to rain, they have now locked horns with the lowly-ranked and inexperienced Nepal where Jadeja ended with 3 for 40 in his ten overs after India opted to bowl first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With three key wickets, Jadeja equalled former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan to become India's joint-most successful bowler in Asia Cup ODIs. Both the all-rounders have 22 wickets apiece and 34-year-old Jadeja will certainly look to add to his tally in the Super Four, should India proceed further with a win over Nepal on Monday evening.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-aasif-sheikh-creates-history-becomes-nepals-first-player-to-hit-a-fifty-vs-india-632294">Asia Cup 2023: Aasif Sheikh creates history, becomes Nepal's first player to slam fifty vs India</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Most wickets for India in Asia Cup ODIs</strong></p>

<p><strong>Ravindra Jadeja: 22 in 15 innings (24.5 Avg)*</strong><br />
Irfan Pathan: 22 in 12 innings (27.5 Avg)<br />
Sachin Tendulkar: 17 in 15 innings (21.4 Avg)<br />
Kapil Dev: 15 in 7 innings (13 Avg)</p>

<p>Jadeja removed the likes of Bhim Shirki, captain Rohit Paudel and Kushal Malla to dent Nepal's innings after they were off to a fine start courtesy of openers Aasif Sheikh (58) and Kusal Bhurtel (38). Jaddu ended as India's best bowler of the evening whereas Mohammed Siraj also accounted for 3 for 61.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For India, they have a task in hand to chase down 231 versus Nepal, who played fearlessly to put on a decent total on the board. The former ODI champions need a win to enter the Super Four, where they will then lock horns with Pakistan on September 10 (Sunday) in Colombo.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ravindra Jadeja added another feather to his illustrious hat during India's group stage face-off with Nepal in match 5 of Asia Cup 2023, on Monday (September 04) in Kandy.

Ravindra Jadeja added another feather to his illustrious hat during India's group stage face-off with Nepal in match 5 of Asia Cup 2023, on Monday (September 04) in Kandy. After India's opening game versus Pakistan was washed out due to rain, they have now locked horns with the lowly-ranked and inexperienced Nepal where Jadeja ended with 3 for 40 in his ten overs after India opted to bowl first. With three key wickets, Jadeja equalled former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan to become India's joint-most successful bowler in Asia Cup ODIs. Both the all-rounders have 22 wickets apiece and 34-year-old Jadeja will certainly look to add to his tally in the Super Four, should India proceed further with a win over Nepal on Monday evening. Also read: Asia Cup 2023: Aasif Sheikh creates history, becomes Nepal's first player to slam fifty vs India Most wickets for India in Asia Cup ODIs Ravindra Jadeja: 22 in 15 innings (24.5 Avg)* Irfan Pathan: 22 in 12 innings (27.5 Avg) Sachin Tendulkar: 17 in 15 innings (21.4 Avg) Kapil Dev: 15 in 7 innings (13 Avg) Jadeja removed the likes of Bhim Shirki, captain Rohit Paudel and Kushal Malla to dent Nepal's innings after they were off to a fine start courtesy of openers Aasif Sheikh (58) and Kusal Bhurtel (38). Jaddu ended as India's best bowler of the evening whereas Mohammed Siraj also accounted for 3 for 61. For India, they have a task in hand to chase down 231 versus Nepal, who played fearlessly to put on a decent total on the board. The former ODI champions need a win to enter the Super Four, where they will then lock horns with Pakistan on September 10 (Sunday) in Colombo. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Nep: Ravindra Jadeja equals Irfan Pathan to become India's leading wicket-taker in Asia Cup ODIs

<p>India vs Pakistan has always been an electric contest with the rivalry always producing moments to remember. The latest in the clash of Asian giants is the the ongoing match in Asia Cup 2023 in Kandy, Sri Lanka. While the teams always try and play down the occasion, the former players and fans get to it very religiously, reminding each other of wins, losses, controversies and more.</p>

<p>Before the start of Asia Cup 2023 game between India and Pakistan, one such incident was recalled by former India bowler Irfan Pathan who had toured the neighbouring country in 2004 with the Indian squad. Pathan, during the pre-game show on Star network, recalled former Pakistan skipper Javed Miandad's comments about him where the latter had said that 'bowlers like Irfan are found on every street in Pakistan'.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-former-skipper-ramiz-raja-says-indias-doubts-about-playing-xi-will-benefit-pakistan-631721">Asia Cup: Former skipper Ramiz Raja says India's doubts about Playing XI will benefit Pakistan</a></p>

<p>“The great Javed Miandad had said something about me. He said, ‘bowlers like Irfan are found in every street of Pakistan’. And how it actually panned out, and how it actually gave respect to me when I did well there… I feel that was pretty special,” said Pathan while on the show with former Pak bowler Waqar Younis.</p>

<p>As for the match, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first two wickets of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli went to Shaheen Afridi while Rauf took the wicket of comeback batsman Shreyas Iyer. The match was also disrupted by rain twice but started soon after as the showers were just passing by. India, after first 10 overs, barely scraped to reach 48 runs for the loss of three wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill were on the crease at the time of writing this report, trying to rebuild the Indian innings.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India vs Pakistan has always been an electric contest with the rivalry always producing moments to remember. The latest in the clash of Asian giants is the the ongoing match in Asia Cup 2023 in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

India vs Pakistan has always been an electric contest with the rivalry always producing moments to remember. The latest in the clash of Asian giants is the the ongoing match in Asia Cup 2023 in Kandy, Sri Lanka. While the teams always try and play down the occasion, the former players and fans get to it very religiously, reminding each other of wins, losses, controversies and more. Before the start of Asia Cup 2023 game between India and Pakistan, one such incident was recalled by former India bowler Irfan Pathan who had toured the neighbouring country in 2004 with the Indian squad. Pathan, during the pre-game show on Star network, recalled former Pakistan skipper Javed Miandad's comments about him where the latter had said that 'bowlers like Irfan are found on every street in Pakistan'. Also Read: Asia Cup: Former skipper Ramiz Raja says India's doubts about Playing XI will benefit Pakistan “The great Javed Miandad had said something about me. He said, ‘bowlers like Irfan are found in every street of Pakistan’. And how it actually panned out, and how it actually gave respect to me when I did well there… I feel that was pretty special,” said Pathan while on the show with former Pak bowler Waqar Younis. As for the match, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets. The first two wickets of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli went to Shaheen Afridi while Rauf took the wicket of comeback batsman Shreyas Iyer. The match was also disrupted by rain twice but started soon after as the showers were just passing by. India, after first 10 overs, barely scraped to reach 48 runs for the loss of three wickets. Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill were on the crease at the time of writing this report, trying to rebuild the Indian innings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Irfan Pathan recalls Javed Miandad's 'found on every street' comment ahead of India-Pakistan clash

<p>Delhi Capitals (DC) have had a torrid run in IPL 2023. The David Warner-led side were on the back foot before the ongoing season commenced with regular captain Rishabh Pant out of action after a horrific accident on December 30, 2022. Since the start of the season, DC struggled for momentum and while they did achieve some inspiring wins, they became the first team to be eliminated this season after two back-to-back defeats in the last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since Ricky Ponting was appointed as the DC head coach, ahead of IPL 2018 (back when the franchise was known as the Delhi Daredevils), the franchise has done considerably well (reaching the playoffs thrice and playing their first-ever final in 2020 edition). However, Ponting-led team management have been criticised for their team combination, underutilisation of key players, etc. in IPL 2023. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has suggested Sourav Ganguly's name as DC's next head coach.</p>

<h2><strong>GANGULY AS NEXT DC COACH?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"Sourav Ganguly's presence in the Delhi dugout is a big deal. I think if Dada is given the responsibility of coach as well, he can make a big difference in this team. Dada has knowledge of the psychology of Indian players. He knows how to run the dressing room and Delhi should definitely take advantage of that. At the time of the toss, Warner has said that his team has now started preparing for the next season and in this context, it would not be wrong to see Ganguly in a changed role," said Pathan.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-rohit-sharma-dances-down-the-track-smacks-a-huge-six-in-lsg-vs-mi-clash-watch-593259">IPL 2023: Rohit Sharma dances down the track, smacks a huge SIX in LSG vs MI clash - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Ganguly was part of the DC setup in IPL 2019 as the team advisor before he came back into the setup as the Director of Cricket before IPL 2023. Ganguly has led IPL teams in the past, such as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the now-defunct Pune Warriors (PWI), but never donned the coaching hat. It will be interesting to see if the DC team management remains intact following their dismal run in IPL 2023. If Ponting is sacked, Ganguly can be a worthy successor.</p>

<p>Only time will tell if DC back their under-fire team management or make wholesome changes ahead of IPL 2024.</p>


Delhi Capitals (DC) have had a torrid run in IPL 2023. The David Warner-led side were on the back foot before the ongoing season commenced with regular captain Rishabh Pant out of action after a horrific accident on December 30, 2022.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have had a torrid run in IPL 2023. The David Warner-led side were on the back foot before the ongoing season commenced with regular captain Rishabh Pant out of action after a horrific accident on December 30, 2022. Since the start of the season, DC struggled for momentum and while they did achieve some inspiring wins, they became the first team to be eliminated this season after two back-to-back defeats in the last week. Ever since Ricky Ponting was appointed as the DC head coach, ahead of IPL 2018 (back when the franchise was known as the Delhi Daredevils), the franchise has done considerably well (reaching the playoffs thrice and playing their first-ever final in 2020 edition). However, Ponting-led team management have been criticised for their team combination, underutilisation of key players, etc. in IPL 2023. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has suggested Sourav Ganguly's name as DC's next head coach. GANGULY AS NEXT DC COACH? "Sourav Ganguly's presence in the Delhi dugout is a big deal. I think if Dada is given the responsibility of coach as well, he can make a big difference in this team. Dada has knowledge of the psychology of Indian players. He knows how to run the dressing room and Delhi should definitely take advantage of that. At the time of the toss, Warner has said that his team has now started preparing for the next season and in this context, it would not be wrong to see Ganguly in a changed role," said Pathan. Also Read: IPL 2023: Rohit Sharma dances down the track, smacks a huge SIX in LSG vs MI clash - Watch Ganguly was part of the DC setup in IPL 2019 as the team advisor before he came back into the setup as the Director of Cricket before IPL 2023. Ganguly has led IPL teams in the past, such as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the now-defunct Pune Warriors (PWI), but never donned the coaching hat. It will be interesting to see if the DC team management remains intact following their dismal run in IPL 2023. If Ponting is sacked, Ganguly can be a worthy successor. Only time will tell if DC back their under-fire team management or make wholesome changes ahead of IPL 2024.

IPL 2023: Sourav Ganguly should take over as DC's head coach next season, suggests Irfan Pathan

<p>MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir are modern-day legends of Indian cricket. Over the years, the two have been part of some glorious wins for Team India. The duo have been playing together for a long time, since their India A days, even before they became a regular for the senior team. While there have been the occasional differences in the past, with several reports of a rift between the two, they do share&nbsp;mutual respect for each other to date.</p>

<p>Recently, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recalled how Gambhir's on-field tactics against Dhoni rattled the latter a few years back in the IPL. During IPL 2016 and 2017, Dhoni was struggling for runs when he played for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS). In IPL 2016, he led the Pune franchise and his side was on the mat, in match 45,&nbsp;after opting to bat first in their away game versus Gambhir's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Kolkata.</p>

<p>When Dhoni came out to bat, at 74-4, KKR skipper Gambhir&nbsp;brought in the likes of Shakib Al Hasan, Suryakumar Yadav and Yusuf Pathan in close-in positions and operated with his top spinners Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-ms-dhoni-no-longer-playing-as-a-player-but-as-mentor-former-indian-batter-on-csk-captain-588762">IPL 2023: 'MS Dhoni no longer playing as a player but as mentor' - Former Indian batter on CSK captain</a></strong></p>

<p>The ploy rattled Dhoni as he was not able to rotate the strike. Recalling the incident, Irfan -- who was at the non-striker's end&nbsp;-- said that the former Indian captain was taken aback by Gambhir's tactics.</p>

<p>While doing commentary on&nbsp;Star Sports Hindi&nbsp;during Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s home game versus Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in match 45 of IPL 2023 on Wednesday (May 03), Irfan said,&nbsp;"Gautam Gambhir played with the ego of MS Dhoni when he was the captain of KKR. He was the only one who succeeded in rattling him for years. MS was rattled to the core by the field setting."</p>

<p>Gambhir's aggressive field set for Dhoni resulted in his dismissal for a 22-ball eight in KKR-RPS clash in IPL 2016 (which KKR won by eight wickets). Such was Dhoni's desperation to get off the strike that it also resulted in Irfan's run-out. From 2016 onwards, Dhoni became susceptible against spin bowlers and, hence, Gambhir did use the same ploy&nbsp;in the following IPL season.</p>

<p>At present, Dhoni is leading CSK in IPL 2023 and occupy the third position in the points table. Gambhir is LSG's team mentor. Lucknow are in the second spot. Both sides have 11 points each after ten games.</p>


MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir are modern-day legends of Indian cricket. Over the years, the two have been part of some glorious wins for Team India. The duo have been playing together for a long time, since their India A days, even before they became a regular for the senior team.

MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir are modern-day legends of Indian cricket. Over the years, the two have been part of some glorious wins for Team India. The duo have been playing together for a long time, since their India A days, even before they became a regular for the senior team. While there have been the occasional differences in the past, with several reports of a rift between the two, they do share mutual respect for each other to date. Recently, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recalled how Gambhir's on-field tactics against Dhoni rattled the latter a few years back in the IPL. During IPL 2016 and 2017, Dhoni was struggling for runs when he played for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS). In IPL 2016, he led the Pune franchise and his side was on the mat, in match 45, after opting to bat first in their away game versus Gambhir's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Kolkata. When Dhoni came out to bat, at 74-4, KKR skipper Gambhir brought in the likes of Shakib Al Hasan, Suryakumar Yadav and Yusuf Pathan in close-in positions and operated with his top spinners Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla. Also Read: IPL 2023: 'MS Dhoni no longer playing as a player but as mentor' - Former Indian batter on CSK captain The ploy rattled Dhoni as he was not able to rotate the strike. Recalling the incident, Irfan -- who was at the non-striker's end -- said that the former Indian captain was taken aback by Gambhir's tactics. While doing commentary on Star Sports Hindi during Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s home game versus Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in match 45 of IPL 2023 on Wednesday (May 03), Irfan said, "Gautam Gambhir played with the ego of MS Dhoni when he was the captain of KKR. He was the only one who succeeded in rattling him for years. MS was rattled to the core by the field setting." Gambhir's aggressive field set for Dhoni resulted in his dismissal for a 22-ball eight in KKR-RPS clash in IPL 2016 (which KKR won by eight wickets). Such was Dhoni's desperation to get off the strike that it also resulted in Irfan's run-out. From 2016 onwards, Dhoni became susceptible against spin bowlers and, hence, Gambhir did use the same ploy in the following IPL season. At present, Dhoni is leading CSK in IPL 2023 and occupy the third position in the points table. Gambhir is LSG's team mentor. Lucknow are in the second spot. Both sides have 11 points each after ten games.

'Gambhir played with MS Dhoni's ego': Irfan recalls former KKR captain's famous field set in IPL 2016

<p>From one champion to the other! Former India seamer Irfan Pathan has praised Mohammed Siraj for showing discipline and maturity in his bowling. The India bowler is making headlines for his performances, having picked 13 wickets in seven games – most by any bowler in IPL 2023 so far. While the Royal Challengers Bangalore didn't attain the results they would have wanted, the franchise will bank on Siraj to deliver goods in the remaining season as well.</p>

<p>Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan, who was also successful with the new ball during his time, is impressed with Siraj’s line and length in the Powerplay and feels he is the difference-maker for RCB this season.</p>

<p>"Mohammad Siraj has bowled excellently in the Powerplay this season for RCB. He's really making a difference for them. There is a big and positive difference in his bowling compared to last year. That is why his responsibility has increased being the premier seamer in the team,” Pathan said on Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-ravi-shastri-to-triple-h-twitter-shower-praises-on-sachin-tendulkar-as-master-blaster-turns-50-585684">From Ravi Shastri to Triple H, Twitter shower praises on Sachin Tendulkar as Master Blaster turns 50</a></p>

<p>Against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday in a home game, Siraj clean&nbsp;bowled dangerous Jos Buttler on a second-ball duck and even troubled the left-handed pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Devdutt Padikkal during his first spell. Even at the death, he was spot on and helped RCB beat RR by seven runs. Talking about his role in the side after the game, Siraj said,</p>

<p>“I accept any challenge. My role is going well, wickets with the new ball, and the ball is coming out of the hand nicely. One ball swung in the first over when it swung into Jaiswal, and then concentrated on my scrambled seam as I trust that.”</p>

<p>Even in the Indian team, the right-arm seamer has climbed up the ladder; and in the absence of the ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is nursing a back injury and is out for some time, Siraj is now the first-team player across formats.</p>

<p>Given he is amongst the selected set of players who will get picked for the 2023 World Cup, it would be interesting to see if and when he gets the desired rest ahead of the packed international schedule that awaits.</p>


From one champion to the other! Former India seamer Irfan Pathan has praised Mohammed Siraj for showing discipline and maturity in his bowling. The India bowler is making headlines for his performances, having picked 13 wickets in seven games – most by any bowler in IPL 2023 so far.

From one champion to the other! Former India seamer Irfan Pathan has praised Mohammed Siraj for showing discipline and maturity in his bowling. The India bowler is making headlines for his performances, having picked 13 wickets in seven games – most by any bowler in IPL 2023 so far. While the Royal Challengers Bangalore didn't attain the results they would have wanted, the franchise will bank on Siraj to deliver goods in the remaining season as well. Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan, who was also successful with the new ball during his time, is impressed with Siraj’s line and length in the Powerplay and feels he is the difference-maker for RCB this season. "Mohammad Siraj has bowled excellently in the Powerplay this season for RCB. He's really making a difference for them. There is a big and positive difference in his bowling compared to last year. That is why his responsibility has increased being the premier seamer in the team,” Pathan said on Star Sports. ALSO READ: From Ravi Shastri to Triple H, Twitter shower praises on Sachin Tendulkar as Master Blaster turns 50 Against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday in a home game, Siraj clean bowled dangerous Jos Buttler on a second-ball duck and even troubled the left-handed pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Devdutt Padikkal during his first spell. Even at the death, he was spot on and helped RCB beat RR by seven runs. Talking about his role in the side after the game, Siraj said, “I accept any challenge. My role is going well, wickets with the new ball, and the ball is coming out of the hand nicely. One ball swung in the first over when it swung into Jaiswal, and then concentrated on my scrambled seam as I trust that.” Even in the Indian team, the right-arm seamer has climbed up the ladder; and in the absence of the ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is nursing a back injury and is out for some time, Siraj is now the first-team player across formats. Given he is amongst the selected set of players who will get picked for the 2023 World Cup, it would be interesting to see if and when he gets the desired rest ahead of the packed international schedule that awaits.

IPL 2023: Irfan Pathan in awe of RCB's Mohammed Siraj, says he's the difference-maker for them this season

<p>Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 14 runs in match 25 of IPL 2023 edition on Tuesday (April 18) in Hyderabad. Asked to bat first, MI rode on Cameron Green's 40-ball 64 and Tilak Verma's 37 to post a daunting 192 for 5. In reply, Aiden Markram-led SRH posted 178 all-out in 19.5 overs.</p>

<p>Green, Australia's 23-year-old young star, didn't have a great start in the IPL but he came to his own versus SRH as MI earned their third win on the trot. Not just with the bat, Green also chipped in with the ball as he returned with 4-0-29-1 to be adjudged the Player-of-the-Match. After the game, former Indian pacer-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan lauded Green and predicted him to be the 'next superstar in world cricket'.</p>

<p>Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan said, "Cameron Green is going to be the next superstar in world cricket. He's a talented player and we are going to see more of him because he is raising his game with every passing day."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-chance-i-will-virat-kohli-recalls-how-he-turned-down-another-franchises-offer-and-remained-at-rcb-584017">'No chance, I will...': Virat Kohli recalls how he turned down another franchise's offer and remained at RCB</a></strong></p>

<p>More applause came Green's way as Sachin Tendulkar, MI's team mentor, also lavished huge praise on him. Speaking in a video shared on MI's official social media handles, he said, "I think today [Tuesday] I learned something. And I feel that we have all picked the same message from Green. He can hit the ball as well as anyone in the team. But, the initial phase was a tough phase for him. And he did not let his ego come in the way. Ego is something that will always encourage you to do the wrong things. He did not."</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, the Aussie star stated, "I think first couple of games were a learning curve for me and our team. Bit of a sticky situation (when I walked out to bat). But glad the plans came off. I am a work in progress with my bowling at the death. Obviously, we can continue with the winning momentum."</p>


Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 14 runs in match 25 of IPL 2023 edition on Tuesday (April 18) in Hyderabad. Asked to bat first, MI rode on Cameron Green's 40-ball 64 and Tilak Verma's 37 to post a daunting 192 for 5.

Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 14 runs in match 25 of IPL 2023 edition on Tuesday (April 18) in Hyderabad. Asked to bat first, MI rode on Cameron Green's 40-ball 64 and Tilak Verma's 37 to post a daunting 192 for 5. In reply, Aiden Markram-led SRH posted 178 all-out in 19.5 overs. Green, Australia's 23-year-old young star, didn't have a great start in the IPL but he came to his own versus SRH as MI earned their third win on the trot. Not just with the bat, Green also chipped in with the ball as he returned with 4-0-29-1 to be adjudged the Player-of-the-Match. After the game, former Indian pacer-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan lauded Green and predicted him to be the 'next superstar in world cricket'. Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan said, "Cameron Green is going to be the next superstar in world cricket. He's a talented player and we are going to see more of him because he is raising his game with every passing day." Also Read: 'No chance, I will...': Virat Kohli recalls how he turned down another franchise's offer and remained at RCB More applause came Green's way as Sachin Tendulkar, MI's team mentor, also lavished huge praise on him. Speaking in a video shared on MI's official social media handles, he said, "I think today [Tuesday] I learned something. And I feel that we have all picked the same message from Green. He can hit the ball as well as anyone in the team. But, the initial phase was a tough phase for him. And he did not let his ego come in the way. Ego is something that will always encourage you to do the wrong things. He did not." At the post-match presentation, the Aussie star stated, "I think first couple of games were a learning curve for me and our team. Bit of a sticky situation (when I walked out to bat). But glad the plans came off. I am a work in progress with my bowling at the death. Obviously, we can continue with the winning momentum."

IPL 2023: Irfan Pathan names THIS MI player as 'the next superstar in world cricket'

<p>Pakistan's veteran pacer Sohail Khan, who last represented the Men in Green in 2017 and is best known for his five-fer versus India in the 2015 ODI World Cup, has been in the news of late. Sohail had an interaction recently, where he said a number of things about Indian cricketers Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Umran Malik, Gautam Gambhir, etc.</p>

<p>Pakistani cricketers -- especially former players -- often make the headlines for their glaring remarks on Indian cricket. Sohail joined the bandwagon when he recently commented on India's young pacer Umran Malik. Speaking on The Nadir Ali podcast, he said, "I feel this Umran Malik guy is a good bowler. I’ve seen 1-2 matches. He runs fast and has kept other things in check as well. But if you think of fast bowlers with speed in excess of over 150-155 kph, I can count 12-15 players right now who play tape-ball cricket. If you go visit the trails organised by Lahore Qalandars, you’ll find many players."</p>

<p>Sohail added, "Iske (Umran Malik) jaise toh bohot hain. Domestic cricket bhari padi hai hamaari. (Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik)<em>.</em>&nbsp;When a bowler comes through in our domestic level, he becomes a bonafide bowler. Like Shaheen, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf… these are bowlers who know their stuff. I can give you plenty of names."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/our-domestic-setup-is-filled-with-bowlers-like-umran-malik-says-pakistan-pacer-sohail-khan-558780">Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik, says Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>Thus, Sohail's statement on Umran -- where he says such raw pacers are in abundance in Pakistan's domestic circuit -- hasn't been well received by many Indian cricket fans. A Twitterati, named Major Gaurav Arya took note of Sohail's comments and schooled him, reminding him of Javed Miandad's ill-comments on Irfan Pathan on the eve of India's historic tour of Pakistan in 2004. <strong>Here's what he tweeted:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><i>"Pakistani cricketer says Umran Malik jaise humare domestic cricket mein bhare pade hain. Javed Miandad said the same about Irfan Pathan. Phir Irfan ne Pakistan mein ja kar Pakistan ki team ka band bajaya tha. Yaar tum log thoda kam bola karo</i>&nbsp;(Pakistan cricketer says there are plenty of bowlers like Umran Malik in our domestic circuit. Javed Miandad had said the same about Irfan Pathan. He then went to Pakistan and proved his worth. Pakistanis should speak less)," the Twitter user wrote.</p>

<p>India's former all-rounder Irfan joined in and gave a befitting reply to Sohail by saying, "<i>Major sahab ese statements de kar inhe attention chahiye. Ignore maariye&nbsp;</i>(Major, they want to get attention by making these statements. Please ignore)."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Major sahab ese statements de kar inhe attention chahiye. Ignore maariye.</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1621801437645705222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Talking about the Twitter user's&nbsp;mention of Miandad's comments on Irfan, it was during India's 2004 tour of Pakistan when the then Pakistani coach brushed aside the pacer's&nbsp;threat. Irfan had a stellar run in India's 2003/04 tour of Australia. However, Miandad played it down whereas Irfan maintained silence and let his performances do the talking. Irfan chipped in with key scalps in India's 3-2 ODI series win whereas ended with 12 wickets, at 28.50, to help Sourav Ganguly &amp; Co. beat Pakistan 2-1 in three Tests.</p>

<p>Speaking of Umran, he made a mark at the highest level during IPL 2022 with 22 scalps; the fourth-most by any. Since then, his stocks have risen. While he missed out on being a part of India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad, he has remained in the scheme of things of India's white-ball setup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Umran was part of India's 2-1 T20I series win over New Zealand at home. With the ODI World Cup set to be held later this year in India, the 23-year-old will be eager to remain consistent with the ball and be a part of the national squad for the showpiece event.</p>


Pakistan's veteran pacer Sohail Khan, who last represented the Men in Green in 2017 and is best known for his five-fer versus India in the 2015 ODI World Cup, has been in the news of late.

Pakistan's veteran pacer Sohail Khan, who last represented the Men in Green in 2017 and is best known for his five-fer versus India in the 2015 ODI World Cup, has been in the news of late. Sohail had an interaction recently, where he said a number of things about Indian cricketers Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Umran Malik, Gautam Gambhir, etc. Pakistani cricketers -- especially former players -- often make the headlines for their glaring remarks on Indian cricket. Sohail joined the bandwagon when he recently commented on India's young pacer Umran Malik. Speaking on The Nadir Ali podcast, he said, "I feel this Umran Malik guy is a good bowler. I’ve seen 1-2 matches. He runs fast and has kept other things in check as well. But if you think of fast bowlers with speed in excess of over 150-155 kph, I can count 12-15 players right now who play tape-ball cricket. If you go visit the trails organised by Lahore Qalandars, you’ll find many players." Sohail added, "Iske (Umran Malik) jaise toh bohot hain. Domestic cricket bhari padi hai hamaari. (Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik). When a bowler comes through in our domestic level, he becomes a bonafide bowler. Like Shaheen, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf… these are bowlers who know their stuff. I can give you plenty of names." Also Read: Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik, says Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan Thus, Sohail's statement on Umran -- where he says such raw pacers are in abundance in Pakistan's domestic circuit -- hasn't been well received by many Indian cricket fans. A Twitterati, named Major Gaurav Arya took note of Sohail's comments and schooled him, reminding him of Javed Miandad's ill-comments on Irfan Pathan on the eve of India's historic tour of Pakistan in 2004. Here's what he tweeted: "Pakistani cricketer says Umran Malik jaise humare domestic cricket mein bhare pade hain. Javed Miandad said the same about Irfan Pathan. Phir Irfan ne Pakistan mein ja kar Pakistan ki team ka band bajaya tha. Yaar tum log thoda kam bola karo (Pakistan cricketer says there are plenty of bowlers like Umran Malik in our domestic circuit. Javed Miandad had said the same about Irfan Pathan. He then went to Pakistan and proved his worth. Pakistanis should speak less)," the Twitter user wrote. India's former all-rounder Irfan joined in and gave a befitting reply to Sohail by saying, "Major sahab ese statements de kar inhe attention chahiye. Ignore maariye (Major, they want to get attention by making these statements. Please ignore)." Major sahab ese statements de kar inhe attention chahiye. Ignore maariye. — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) February 4, 2023 × Talking about the Twitter user's mention of Miandad's comments on Irfan, it was during India's 2004 tour of Pakistan when the then Pakistani coach brushed aside the pacer's threat. Irfan had a stellar run in India's 2003/04 tour of Australia. However, Miandad played it down whereas Irfan maintained silence and let his performances do the talking. Irfan chipped in with key scalps in India's 3-2 ODI series win whereas ended with 12 wickets, at 28.50, to help Sourav Ganguly & Co. beat Pakistan 2-1 in three Tests. Speaking of Umran, he made a mark at the highest level during IPL 2022 with 22 scalps; the fourth-most by any. Since then, his stocks have risen. While he missed out on being a part of India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad, he has remained in the scheme of things of India's white-ball setup. Recently, Umran was part of India's 2-1 T20I series win over New Zealand at home. With the ODI World Cup set to be held later this year in India, the 23-year-old will be eager to remain consistent with the ball and be a part of the national squad for the showpiece event.

Irfan gives it back to PAK pacer for his 'our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik' remark

<p>Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton. Having such a flawless run, one expects Gill to feature in India's playing XI for the four-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur on February 09.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the competition is tough as India have preferred the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in Tests. The two were at their best during the England Tests in 2021 and were expected to open together during the Bangladesh series before captain Rohit got injured. With Rahul being his deputy, it will be tough for Gill to replace him. With no Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, either of the two can bat in the middle order as well but the questions remains as to who will open with Rohit. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his take.</p>

<p>“Not in all three formats but in two formats. If you talk about Test matches, you have two openers who have scored runs in difficult conditions, scored runs in England and won matches for India there. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are there, so suddenly because Shubman Gill has scored runs in the T20 format, you cannot ask them to step aside and let him play. You need the stability,” Pathan told&nbsp;<i>Star Sports.</i></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-sharma-but-virat-kohli-may-play-2024-t20-world-cup-predicts-former-indian-opener-558549">Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit and Rahul are expected to open the innings with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to follow suit. KS Bharat might don the wicketkeeping gloves with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel being the spin-bowling all-rounders whereas the likes of Mohammed Shami and Siraj are likely to handle the pace unit.</p>

<p><strong>Squads</strong></p>

<p><strong>India (for first two Tests):</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

<p><strong>Australia:</strong>&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner</p>


Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton.

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton. Having such a flawless run, one expects Gill to feature in India's playing XI for the four-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur on February 09. Nonetheless, the competition is tough as India have preferred the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in Tests. The two were at their best during the England Tests in 2021 and were expected to open together during the Bangladesh series before captain Rohit got injured. With Rahul being his deputy, it will be tough for Gill to replace him. With no Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, either of the two can bat in the middle order as well but the questions remains as to who will open with Rohit. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his take. “Not in all three formats but in two formats. If you talk about Test matches, you have two openers who have scored runs in difficult conditions, scored runs in England and won matches for India there. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are there, so suddenly because Shubman Gill has scored runs in the T20 format, you cannot ask them to step aside and let him play. You need the stability,” Pathan told Star Sports. Also read: Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener Rohit and Rahul are expected to open the innings with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to follow suit. KS Bharat might don the wicketkeeping gloves with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel being the spin-bowling all-rounders whereas the likes of Mohammed Shami and Siraj are likely to handle the pace unit. Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

'Just because he has scored runs in T20Is....': Irfan on Rahul vs Gill debate ahead of India-Australia Tests

<p>Last week, the BCCI selection committee announced India's white-ball squads for the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on January 03 in Mumbai. Hardik Pandya was named the T20I captain whereas regular skipper Rohit Sharma will return from a thumb injury to take charge of the ODI line-up versus the Lankans. While nothing has been revealed whether Hardik is set to become the next T20I captain, it is believed that the official announcement will follow suit sometime later this year (with seniors focused on 2023 ODI World Cup). Moreover, he is also being touted as Rohit's successor in limited-overs. He is also named as the ODI vice-captain despite KL Rahul's presence (who held onto the post for a year until the recent squad announcement).</p>

<p>Hardik has impressed many with his calm demeanour as captain -- especially during IPL 2022 for the eventual champions Gujarat Titans. As a result, he has led India on a few occasions last year. While talks are on with many supporting Hardik as a long-term captaincy option, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has pointed out a crucial factor which needs to be taken into consideration before promoting the 29-year-old all-rounder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking during an interaction on Star Sports, Pathan said, "The captaincy Hardik has done, whether it was for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL or at the start for India, I felt the communication was extremely good. He was seen as very agile." He added, "When there was talk about his captaincy, I was extremely impressed with his approach but along with that India will have to keep in mind that if you are making him the long-term captain, they will have to concentrate a lot on his fitness, whether you talk about him or the team management. It will be very crucial going ahead."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-everything-to-know-about-dexa-test-bccis-new-mandatory-selection-criteria-for-team-india-players-548619">Explained: Everything to know about Dexa test, BCCI's new MANDATORY selection criteria for Team India players</a></strong></p>

<p>Hardik will lead a young T20I team when India take on Sri Lanka in the series opener on Tuesday (January 03) in Mumbai. It will be the start of a new era with many senior players not being part of the series. It will be interesting to see how Hardik manages himself and continues to perform the role of an all-rounder when leading the side (he bowled in excess of 30 overs and batted at No. 4 mostly during IPL 2022) as he continues to make rapid strides as a leader.</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: </strong>Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.</p>


Last week, the BCCI selection committee announced India's white-ball squads for the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on January 03 in Mumbai. Hardik Pandya was named the T20I captain whereas regular skipper Rohit Sharma will return from a thumb injury to take charge of the ODI line-up versus the Lankans.

Last week, the BCCI selection committee announced India's white-ball squads for the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on January 03 in Mumbai. Hardik Pandya was named the T20I captain whereas regular skipper Rohit Sharma will return from a thumb injury to take charge of the ODI line-up versus the Lankans. While nothing has been revealed whether Hardik is set to become the next T20I captain, it is believed that the official announcement will follow suit sometime later this year (with seniors focused on 2023 ODI World Cup). Moreover, he is also being touted as Rohit's successor in limited-overs. He is also named as the ODI vice-captain despite KL Rahul's presence (who held onto the post for a year until the recent squad announcement). Hardik has impressed many with his calm demeanour as captain -- especially during IPL 2022 for the eventual champions Gujarat Titans. As a result, he has led India on a few occasions last year. While talks are on with many supporting Hardik as a long-term captaincy option, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has pointed out a crucial factor which needs to be taken into consideration before promoting the 29-year-old all-rounder. Speaking during an interaction on Star Sports, Pathan said, "The captaincy Hardik has done, whether it was for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL or at the start for India, I felt the communication was extremely good. He was seen as very agile." He added, "When there was talk about his captaincy, I was extremely impressed with his approach but along with that India will have to keep in mind that if you are making him the long-term captain, they will have to concentrate a lot on his fitness, whether you talk about him or the team management. It will be very crucial going ahead." Also read: Explained: Everything to know about Dexa test, BCCI's new MANDATORY selection criteria for Team India players Hardik will lead a young T20I team when India take on Sri Lanka in the series opener on Tuesday (January 03) in Mumbai. It will be the start of a new era with many senior players not being part of the series. It will be interesting to see how Hardik manages himself and continues to perform the role of an all-rounder when leading the side (he bowled in excess of 30 overs and batted at No. 4 mostly during IPL 2022) as he continues to make rapid strides as a leader. India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.

'They'll have to...' - Irfan points out 'crucial' factor if Hardik Pandya becomes India's long-term skipper

<p>Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). In what was both the Asian giants' Super 12 opening fixtures, the Rohit Sharma-led India restricted Pakistan to 159-8, after opting to bowl first. In reply, the one-time winners&nbsp;rode on Kohli's 82* and Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40 to take India home&nbsp;after they were reeling at 31 for 4 at one stage.</p>

<p>Kohli's knock was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 154.72. He rotated the strike with Hardik, who was the aggressor of the two at the beginning of their 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down, the 33-year-old Kohli upped the ante with some breathtaking shots and took India home in a dramatic last-over finish in front of a jam-packed stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 WC final win over Pakistan -- lifted Kohli as the ex-captain joined him and presenter Jatin Sapru for an interview on Star Sports. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkFq5hQgLgI/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkFq5hQgLgI/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkFq5hQgLgI/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkFq5hQgLgI/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Irfan Pathan (@irfanpathan_official)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Post R Ashwin hitting the winning runs for India, captain Rohit Sharma and others had also stormed into the middle to laud Kohli. Even Hitman had lifted his predecessor for his unbelievable and memorable knock under pressure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-have-taken-a-bullet-for-you-but-not-have-hardik-pandya-tells-virat-kohli-after-duos-mcg-heroics-527920">'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Kohli said, "Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support."</p>


Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23).

Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). In what was both the Asian giants' Super 12 opening fixtures, the Rohit Sharma-led India restricted Pakistan to 159-8, after opting to bowl first. In reply, the one-time winners rode on Kohli's 82* and Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40 to take India home after they were reeling at 31 for 4 at one stage. Kohli's knock was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 154.72. He rotated the strike with Hardik, who was the aggressor of the two at the beginning of their 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down, the 33-year-old Kohli upped the ante with some breathtaking shots and took India home in a dramatic last-over finish in front of a jam-packed stadium. After the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 WC final win over Pakistan -- lifted Kohli as the ex-captain joined him and presenter Jatin Sapru for an interview on Star Sports. Here's the video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Irfan Pathan (@irfanpathan_official) × Post R Ashwin hitting the winning runs for India, captain Rohit Sharma and others had also stormed into the middle to laud Kohli. Even Hitman had lifted his predecessor for his unbelievable and memorable knock under pressure. ALSO READ | 'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Kohli said, "Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support."

Watch: After Rohit Sharma, Irfan Pathan lifts Virat Kohli following his MCG heroics vs Pakistan

<p>Irfan Pathan had a meteoric rise in international cricket after making his debut for the Indian team in 2003. At a time when India were in desperate need of quality fast bowlers, Irfan's emergence came as a breath of fresh air as he made batters dance to his tunes with his pace and swing.</p>

<p>Pathan made his debut for India in a Test against Australia in Adelaide in 2003 and soon went on to become one of the key members of the Indian pace attack across formats. He also developed his batting skills and was looked at as a proper all-rounder.</p>

<p>He was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under MS Dhoni in 2007 but couldn't make the cut for the ODI World Cup in 2011 which India won after defeating Sri Lanka in the final. Pathan's dwindling form and fitness issues&nbsp;saw him lose his spot in the Indian squad after 2012 as his downfall began.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-guy-whos-damn-self-confident-sanjay-manjrekar-reacts-as-virat-kohli-regains-form-520138">'This is a guy who’s damn self-confident' - Sanjay Manjrekar reacts as Virat Kohli regains form</a></p>

<p>He last played for India in 2012 and failed to make his comeback to the team before retiring in 2020. He is currently playing for Bhilwara Kings in the Legends League Cricket and has impressed some fans with his performances despite being 37 and not having played much competitive cricket recently.</p>

<p>A fan took to Twitter to blame MS Dhoni and the former Indian team management for Pathan's short international career. The all-rounder noticed the tweet and came up with a classy response to the fan which won the hearts of many on Twitter.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nepal-seeks-interpols-help-to-find-fugitive-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-amid-rape-allegations-520130">Nepal seeks Interpol's help to find fugitive cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane amid rape allegations</a></p>

<p>"Every time I see Irfan Pathan in these leagues, i curse MS &amp; his management even more...I can't believe, he played last white ball game at the age of just 29...Perfect no. 7, any team would die for..But India played Jaddu, even Binny #LegendsLeagueCricket," said the fan in a tweet.</p>

<p>"Don't blame any one. Thank you for love," Pathan responded.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Don’t blame any one. Thank you for love</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1574644848644456448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Pathan played 29 Tests, 120 ODIs and 24 T20Is for India in his short but eventful international career. He picked up 100, 173 and 28 wickets in the three formats respectively, and also notched up 2821 runs in the three formats combined.</p>


Irfan Pathan had a meteoric rise in international cricket after making his debut for the Indian team in 2003. At a time when India were in desperate need of quality fast bowlers, Irfan's emergence came as a breath of fresh air as he made batters dance to his tunes with his pace and swing.

Irfan Pathan had a meteoric rise in international cricket after making his debut for the Indian team in 2003. At a time when India were in desperate need of quality fast bowlers, Irfan's emergence came as a breath of fresh air as he made batters dance to his tunes with his pace and swing. Pathan made his debut for India in a Test against Australia in Adelaide in 2003 and soon went on to become one of the key members of the Indian pace attack across formats. He also developed his batting skills and was looked at as a proper all-rounder. He was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under MS Dhoni in 2007 but couldn't make the cut for the ODI World Cup in 2011 which India won after defeating Sri Lanka in the final. Pathan's dwindling form and fitness issues saw him lose his spot in the Indian squad after 2012 as his downfall began. Also Read: 'This is a guy who’s damn self-confident' - Sanjay Manjrekar reacts as Virat Kohli regains form He last played for India in 2012 and failed to make his comeback to the team before retiring in 2020. He is currently playing for Bhilwara Kings in the Legends League Cricket and has impressed some fans with his performances despite being 37 and not having played much competitive cricket recently. A fan took to Twitter to blame MS Dhoni and the former Indian team management for Pathan's short international career. The all-rounder noticed the tweet and came up with a classy response to the fan which won the hearts of many on Twitter. Also Read: Nepal seeks Interpol's help to find fugitive cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane amid rape allegations "Every time I see Irfan Pathan in these leagues, i curse MS & his management even more...I can't believe, he played last white ball game at the age of just 29...Perfect no. 7, any team would die for..But India played Jaddu, even Binny #LegendsLeagueCricket," said the fan in a tweet. "Don't blame any one. Thank you for love," Pathan responded. Don’t blame any one. Thank you for love — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) September 27, 2022 × Pathan played 29 Tests, 120 ODIs and 24 T20Is for India in his short but eventful international career. He picked up 100, 173 and 28 wickets in the three formats respectively, and also notched up 2821 runs in the three formats combined.

Fan blames MS Dhoni for Irfan Pathan's short career, former India all-rounder's response wins hearts

<p>Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the Indian team should recall senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami in their T20 squad if they have to fix the issues in their bowling department ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. India's bowling let them down as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. suffered their second straight defeat in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Indian bowlers struggled against Sri Lanka as they failed to pick up early wickets in the Powerplay and conceded runs heavily in the death overs as well. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya were all taken to the cleaners as India failed to defend the total of 173 runs in Dubai.</p>

<p>As India stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament, Pathan has made a bold suggestion, asking the team management to bring back the experienced Mohammed Shami. Shami is currently not part of India's plans in T20Is but has been a regular member of the Test and ODI squad.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-explains-why-deepak-hooda-didnt-bowl-against-sri-lanka-after-questions-over-his-selection-513798">Rohit Sharma explains why Deepak Hooda didn't bowl against Sri Lanka after questions over his selection</a></p>

<p>Pathan feels Shami is the best option India have if they want to improve their prospects with the new ball as he has the form and the experience to come and deliver straightaway.</p>

<p>“The team you chose, you didn’t use the sixth bowler, and you didn’t get the result you wanted from the other five bowlers. Now there is an opportunity here whether a bowler can come in the World Cup race who can help the Indian team. I feel if you are looking for only the new ball, you will not get a better option than Mohammad Shami," Pathan said after India's six-wicket loss against Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>“There are a lot of bowlers who have raised their hands, there are options, but they are young and inexperienced. If you see experience and form, Mohammad Shami is furthest ahead," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-has-no-pace-pakistan-legend-wasim-akram-on-indias-death-bowling-woes-against-sri-lanka-513752">Bhuvneshwar Kumar has no pace: Pakistan legend Wasim Akram on India's death bowling woes against Sri Lanka</a></p>

<p>Despite losing the first two games in the Super Four stage, India still have an outside chance of making it to the final if they can beat Afghanistan by a huge margin in their final encounter. However, Pakistan will have to lose their remaining two matches for India to stand a chance of qualifying for the final.</p>


Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the Indian team should recall senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami in their T20 squad if they have to fix the issues in their bowling department ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the Indian team should recall senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami in their T20 squad if they have to fix the issues in their bowling department ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. India's bowling let them down as Rohit Sharma & Co. suffered their second straight defeat in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Tuesday. Indian bowlers struggled against Sri Lanka as they failed to pick up early wickets in the Powerplay and conceded runs heavily in the death overs as well. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya were all taken to the cleaners as India failed to defend the total of 173 runs in Dubai. As India stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament, Pathan has made a bold suggestion, asking the team management to bring back the experienced Mohammed Shami. Shami is currently not part of India's plans in T20Is but has been a regular member of the Test and ODI squad. Also Read: Rohit Sharma explains why Deepak Hooda didn't bowl against Sri Lanka after questions over his selection Pathan feels Shami is the best option India have if they want to improve their prospects with the new ball as he has the form and the experience to come and deliver straightaway. “The team you chose, you didn’t use the sixth bowler, and you didn’t get the result you wanted from the other five bowlers. Now there is an opportunity here whether a bowler can come in the World Cup race who can help the Indian team. I feel if you are looking for only the new ball, you will not get a better option than Mohammad Shami," Pathan said after India's six-wicket loss against Sri Lanka. “There are a lot of bowlers who have raised their hands, there are options, but they are young and inexperienced. If you see experience and form, Mohammad Shami is furthest ahead," he added. Also Read: Bhuvneshwar Kumar has no pace: Pakistan legend Wasim Akram on India's death bowling woes against Sri Lanka Despite losing the first two games in the Super Four stage, India still have an outside chance of making it to the final if they can beat Afghanistan by a huge margin in their final encounter. However, Pakistan will have to lose their remaining two matches for India to stand a chance of qualifying for the final.

No better option than Md. Shami: Irfan Pathan on how India can fix bowling woes ahead of T20 World Cup

<p>Young India pacer Arshdeep Singh has been on the receiving end of intense criticism after he dropped a simple catch of Pakistan batter Asif Ali in the Super 4 clash between the arch-rivals in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (September 04). India lost the game by five wickets as Pakistan successfully chased down the target of 182 runs in a last-over thriller in Dubai.</p>

<p>It was the second meeting between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 after the two teams had met during the group stage. Asked to bat first, India got off to a flying start courtesy of a 54-run stand between openers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma before Virat Kohli's 60-run-knock propelled the team's total to a strong 181 runs in 20 overs.</p>

<p>In reply, Pakistan got off to a shaky start as their captain Babar Azam departed cheaply on just 14 off 10 balls. However, opener Mohammad Rizwan single-handedly kept Pakistan in the game with a gritty knock of 71 runs. He combined with Mohammad Nawaz (42) to take Pakistan closer to victory before the duo lost their wickets in quick succession.</p>

<p>Sensing an opportunity to make a comeback in the game, India fought back in the final few overs and had a great opportunity to turn the tide in their favour when Asif Ali gave an easy catch to Arshdeep in the 18th over. However, the youngster put it down as Ali went on to score 16 off 8 balls to take Pakistan home.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/only-ms-dhoni-texted-me-after-leaving-test-captaincy-recalls-virat-kohli-512942">‘Only MS Dhoni texted me after leaving Test captaincy’,&nbsp;recalls Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>The likes of former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan and ex-Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez defended Arshdeep as the young pacer faced massive backlash on social media for his mistake. All three cricketers praised Arshdeep and asked the fans to cut him some slack.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stop criticising young <a href="https://twitter.com/arshdeepsinghh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arshdeepsinghh</a> No one drop the catch purposely..we are proud of our boys .. Pakistan played better.. shame on such people who r putting our own guys down by saying cheap things on this platform bout arsh and team.. Arsh is GOLD</p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1566490748547399680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Arshdeep is a strong character. Stay that way boy. <a href="https://twitter.com/arshdeepsinghh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arshdeepsinghh</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1566512731695505413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My request to all Indian team fans. In sports we make mistakes as we r human. Please don’t humiliate anyone on these mistakes. <a href="https://twitter.com/arshdeepsinghh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arshdeepsinghh</a></p>
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1566516118919036928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-mohammad-rizwans-brilliant-knock-helps-pakistan-beat-india-by-six-wickets-in-super-4-clash-512927">Mohammad Rizwan's brilliant knock helps Pakistan beat India by five wickets in Super 4 clash</a></p>

<p>Despite dropping the catch under pressure in a big game, Arshdeep showed great heart as he went on to to bowl a brilliant 20th over against Pakistan on Sunday. With 7 runs to defend, the left-arm pacer dragged the game to the penultimate ball before Pakistan clinched the thiller. He finished with figures of 1/27 in his 3.5 overs.</p>

<p>India are now under pressure in the Super Four after their loss against Pakistan as they wil have to win their remaining two matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka at all cost to qualify for the final.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Young India pacer Arshdeep Singh has been on the receiving end of intense criticism after he dropped a simple catch of Pakistan batter Asif Ali in the Super 4 clash between the arch-rivals in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (September 04).

Young India pacer Arshdeep Singh has been on the receiving end of intense criticism after he dropped a simple catch of Pakistan batter Asif Ali in the Super 4 clash between the arch-rivals in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (September 04). India lost the game by five wickets as Pakistan successfully chased down the target of 182 runs in a last-over thriller in Dubai. It was the second meeting between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 after the two teams had met during the group stage. Asked to bat first, India got off to a flying start courtesy of a 54-run stand between openers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma before Virat Kohli's 60-run-knock propelled the team's total to a strong 181 runs in 20 overs. In reply, Pakistan got off to a shaky start as their captain Babar Azam departed cheaply on just 14 off 10 balls. However, opener Mohammad Rizwan single-handedly kept Pakistan in the game with a gritty knock of 71 runs. He combined with Mohammad Nawaz (42) to take Pakistan closer to victory before the duo lost their wickets in quick succession. Sensing an opportunity to make a comeback in the game, India fought back in the final few overs and had a great opportunity to turn the tide in their favour when Asif Ali gave an easy catch to Arshdeep in the 18th over. However, the youngster put it down as Ali went on to score 16 off 8 balls to take Pakistan home. Also Read: ‘Only MS Dhoni texted me after leaving Test captaincy’, recalls Virat Kohli The likes of former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan and ex-Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez defended Arshdeep as the young pacer faced massive backlash on social media for his mistake. All three cricketers praised Arshdeep and asked the fans to cut him some slack. Stop criticising young @arshdeepsinghh No one drop the catch purposely..we are proud of our boys .. Pakistan played better.. shame on such people who r putting our own guys down by saying cheap things on this platform bout arsh and team.. Arsh is GOLD — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) September 4, 2022 × Arshdeep is a strong character. Stay that way boy. @arshdeepsinghh — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) September 4, 2022 × My request to all Indian team fans. In sports we make mistakes as we r human. Please don’t humiliate anyone on these mistakes. @arshdeepsinghh — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 4, 2022 × Also Read: Mohammad Rizwan's brilliant knock helps Pakistan beat India by five wickets in Super 4 clash Despite dropping the catch under pressure in a big game, Arshdeep showed great heart as he went on to to bowl a brilliant 20th over against Pakistan on Sunday. With 7 runs to defend, the left-arm pacer dragged the game to the penultimate ball before Pakistan clinched the thiller. He finished with figures of 1/27 in his 3.5 overs. India are now under pressure in the Super Four after their loss against Pakistan as they wil have to win their remaining two matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka at all cost to qualify for the final.

'No one drops a catch purposely': Harbhajan, Hafeez defend Arshdeep Singh amid criticism after Pakistan defeat

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India failed to defend a competitive 181/7 versus Pakistan in their Super Four face-off at the Asia Cup, in the UAE, on Sunday (September 04). Being asked to bat first, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, India rode on Virat Kohli's 44-ball 60 before Md Rizwan-Md Nawaz's blazing knocks and cameos from Asif Ali-Khushil Shah led to Pakistan's thrilling five-wicket win in the&nbsp;continental tournament.</p>

<p>After the defeat, many raised fingers at Arshdeep Singh for dropping one of the easiest catches -- in the 18th over to give a reprieve to Asif Ali -- whereas the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar (giving away 19 runs in the penultimate over) and India's middle order batters also got criticised. Moreover, fingers were also pointed out at Rohit's usage of bowlers. Some feel he could've brought back Bhuvi early for his final spell whereas the others didn't agree with him recalling inexperienced spinner Ravi Bishnoi in the 18th over (despite him nearly producing a wicket of Asif before Arshdeep's blunder). However, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has fully backed Hitman and feels Rohit knows how to rotate his bowlers.</p>

<p>“A captain can be tested on two things, especially how he handles the bowler, especially when the bowlers are new and when you are defending too. These two times you get to realise and I have seen time and again Rohit Sharma is a fantastic leader. He manages the bowlers really well, he knows when to play which bowler,” Pathan said while speaking on Star Sports show ‘Follow the Blues’.</p>

<p>“Made Bishnoi bowl an over during the power play, he had taken a wicket but he still kept him waiting, did not let him bowl another over and got him again after Chahal’s over as he knows Bishnoi is a different kind of bowler, not a typical leg spin bowler, doesn’t bowl side arm so it was difficult for Pakistan to read his bowling style that is why he had given just 8 runs off his first two overs," Pathan added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-are-brave-enough-shami-blasts-jobless-trollers-slamming-arshdeep-after-indo-pak-showdown-513220"><strong>'If you are brave enough...' - Shami blasts 'jobless' trolls slamming Arshdeep after Indo-Pak showdown</strong></a></p>

<p>“Rohit Sharma manages the team very well and I hope that when the whole team is back, having Bumrah, Harshal Patel we’ll get to see a better performance from team India which we want to see specially if you see it from the lens of the World Cup,” Pathan further asserted while hoping for the Men in Blue to improve and produce better results with the return of injured pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel.</p>

<p>India's journey at the Asia Cup has been dented by the Pakistan defeat. They will now face Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, respectively, in their remaining encounters in the Super Four in a bid to qualify for the final. Will Rohit guide India to the summit clash? Only time will tell...</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India failed to defend a competitive 181/7 versus Pakistan in their Super Four face-off at the Asia Cup, in the UAE, on Sunday (September 04). Being asked to bat first, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, India rode on Virat Kohli's 44-ball 60 before Md Rizwan-Md Nawaz's blazing knocks and cameos from Asif Ali-Khushil Shah led to Pakistan's thrilling five-wicket win in the continental tournament.

Rohit Sharma-led India failed to defend a competitive 181/7 versus Pakistan in their Super Four face-off at the Asia Cup, in the UAE, on Sunday (September 04). Being asked to bat first, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, India rode on Virat Kohli's 44-ball 60 before Md Rizwan-Md Nawaz's blazing knocks and cameos from Asif Ali-Khushil Shah led to Pakistan's thrilling five-wicket win in the continental tournament. After the defeat, many raised fingers at Arshdeep Singh for dropping one of the easiest catches -- in the 18th over to give a reprieve to Asif Ali -- whereas the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar (giving away 19 runs in the penultimate over) and India's middle order batters also got criticised. Moreover, fingers were also pointed out at Rohit's usage of bowlers. Some feel he could've brought back Bhuvi early for his final spell whereas the others didn't agree with him recalling inexperienced spinner Ravi Bishnoi in the 18th over (despite him nearly producing a wicket of Asif before Arshdeep's blunder). However, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has fully backed Hitman and feels Rohit knows how to rotate his bowlers. “A captain can be tested on two things, especially how he handles the bowler, especially when the bowlers are new and when you are defending too. These two times you get to realise and I have seen time and again Rohit Sharma is a fantastic leader. He manages the bowlers really well, he knows when to play which bowler,” Pathan said while speaking on Star Sports show ‘Follow the Blues’. “Made Bishnoi bowl an over during the power play, he had taken a wicket but he still kept him waiting, did not let him bowl another over and got him again after Chahal’s over as he knows Bishnoi is a different kind of bowler, not a typical leg spin bowler, doesn’t bowl side arm so it was difficult for Pakistan to read his bowling style that is why he had given just 8 runs off his first two overs," Pathan added. ALSO READ | 'If you are brave enough...' - Shami blasts 'jobless' trolls slamming Arshdeep after Indo-Pak showdown “Rohit Sharma manages the team very well and I hope that when the whole team is back, having Bumrah, Harshal Patel we’ll get to see a better performance from team India which we want to see specially if you see it from the lens of the World Cup,” Pathan further asserted while hoping for the Men in Blue to improve and produce better results with the return of injured pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. India's journey at the Asia Cup has been dented by the Pakistan defeat. They will now face Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, respectively, in their remaining encounters in the Super Four in a bid to qualify for the final. Will Rohit guide India to the summit clash? Only time will tell...

'Rohit is a fantastic leader' - Irfan backs Hitman after India's Asia Cup journey dented by Pakistan loss

<p>Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan recently took to social media to offer a scathing review of one of the most popular airlines in the world, Vistara. In the statement that he released on Twitter, Pathan alleged that his ticket class was downgraded involuntarily.</p>

<p>The Indian cricketer turned pundit offered fans some insight into his experience with the airlines, detailing how he was treated extremely poorly by the ground staff while travelling to Dubai from Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-have-ability-to-squash-everybody-former-nz-all-rounder-feels-rohit-co-favourites-to-win-asia-cup-510125" hreflang="en">'India have ability to squash everybody': Former NZ all-rounder feels Rohit &amp; Co. favourites to win Asia Cup</a></p>

<p>"Today, I was travelling to Dubai from Mumbai by Vistara Flight UK-201. At the check-in counter, I had a very bad experience, Vistara was involuntarily downgrading my ticket class which was a confirmed booking.</p>

<p>"I was made to wait one and half an hour at the counter for a resolution. Along with me, my wife, my 8 month old in fact and 5 years old child also had to go through this.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hope you notice and rectify <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> <a href="https://t.co/IaR0nb74Cb">pic.twitter.com/IaR0nb74Cb</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1562461570990751746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He subsequently revealed that he was not the only passenger who was treated this way by the airline, revealing how a myriad of fellow travellers stood alongside him trying to solve their predicament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The ground staff were rude and giving various excuses. In fact, couple of passengers also had to go through the same experience. I don't understand why they oversold the flight and how is this even approved by the management?</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-has-injured-shaheen-afridi-travelled-to-uae-with-pakistan-for-asia-cup-pcb-spokesperson-reveals-510071" hreflang="en">Why has injured Shaheen Afridi travelled to UAE with Pakistan for Asia Cup? PCB spokesperson reveals</a></p>

<p>"I would request the concerned authorities to take immediate action on these incidents so that no one has to go through the same experience as I did," read the cricketer's&nbsp;tweet.</p>

<p>Pathan is presumably charting a course to the United Arab Emirates to watch India perform on the international stage against some of the strongest teams in the world in the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan recently took to social media to offer a scathing review of one of the most popular airlines in the world, Vistara. In the statement that he released on Twitter, Pathan alleged that his ticket class was downgraded involuntarily.

Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan recently took to social media to offer a scathing review of one of the most popular airlines in the world, Vistara. In the statement that he released on Twitter, Pathan alleged that his ticket class was downgraded involuntarily. The Indian cricketer turned pundit offered fans some insight into his experience with the airlines, detailing how he was treated extremely poorly by the ground staff while travelling to Dubai from Mumbai. ALSO READ: 'India have ability to squash everybody': Former NZ all-rounder feels Rohit & Co. favourites to win Asia Cup "Today, I was travelling to Dubai from Mumbai by Vistara Flight UK-201. At the check-in counter, I had a very bad experience, Vistara was involuntarily downgrading my ticket class which was a confirmed booking. "I was made to wait one and half an hour at the counter for a resolution. Along with me, my wife, my 8 month old in fact and 5 years old child also had to go through this. Hope you notice and rectify @airvistara pic.twitter.com/IaR0nb74Cb — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 24, 2022 × He subsequently revealed that he was not the only passenger who was treated this way by the airline, revealing how a myriad of fellow travellers stood alongside him trying to solve their predicament. "The ground staff were rude and giving various excuses. In fact, couple of passengers also had to go through the same experience. I don't understand why they oversold the flight and how is this even approved by the management? ALSO READ: Why has injured Shaheen Afridi travelled to UAE with Pakistan for Asia Cup? PCB spokesperson reveals "I would request the concerned authorities to take immediate action on these incidents so that no one has to go through the same experience as I did," read the cricketer's tweet. Pathan is presumably charting a course to the United Arab Emirates to watch India perform on the international stage against some of the strongest teams in the world in the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup.

'Ground staff were rude'- Irfan Pathan nukes popular airline following an extremely poor travelling experience

<p>Virat Kohli's ongoing lean patch with the willow is a huge concern for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. Kohli has been backed constantly by the Indian team management but has failed to notch up big knocks consistently. He had a disastrous campaign during India's recently-concluded tour of England and has not returned to action since.</p>

<p>Kohli had opted for a break following the conclusion of the England tour and went on to miss India's tour of the West Indies and Zimbabwe. The senior batter is all set to make his comeback for the Indian team in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway in UAE on August 28.</p>

<p>There has been a raging debate over Kohli's woeful form with several former cricketers and experts also calling for the superstar batter to be dropped from India's T20I side ahead of the T20 World Cup this year. However, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed Kohli to bounce back soon.</p>

<p>Pathan explained why Asia Cup 2022 will be an important tournament for Kohli stating that the Indian batter cannot head into the World Cup looking to still find his form. Pathan believes returning to top form in Asia Cup will be a huge boost for Kohli and the Indian team looking forward to the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-responds-as-fan-asks-him-to-come-out-of-retirement-to-replace-injured-shaheen-in-asia-cup-2022-508995">Shahid Afridi responds as fan asks him to come out of retirement to replace injured Shaheen in Asia Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>"As far as the mind is concerned, what Virat Kohli will be thinking, what kind of mindset he will be coming in with and playing the matches, I think yes, Asia Cup is very, very important but when I look forward to the World Cup, where the pitches will be very, very good in Australia, which he likes, he thrives on Australian pitches, he's done really well," Pathan said on Star Sports.</p>

<p>"So Indian team needs Virat Kohli in top form. &nbsp;He comes back from Asia Cup in top form, I think it's a win-win situation for Virat Kohli and the Indian team.</p>

<p>"Indian team has so many options, they need to choose from the options. Because you need someone going into the World Cup in good form. You cannot not have form in the World Cup. You can't find form in the World Cup," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irfan-pathan-takes-a-sly-dig-at-waqar-younis-after-his-relief-for-india-tweet-on-shaheen-afridis-injury-508886">Irfan Pathan takes a sly dig at Waqar Younis after his 'relief for India' tweet on Shaheen Afridi's injury</a></p>

<p>Kohli, who missed the last edition of the tournament&nbsp;in the UAE in 2018, is the second highest run-getter in the Asia Cup among active cricketers with 766 runs in 16 matches at a brilliant&nbsp;average of 63.83. He will be hoping to extend his dominance in the tournament this year.</p>


Virat Kohli's ongoing lean patch with the willow is a huge concern for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. Kohli has been backed constantly by the Indian team management but has failed to notch up big knocks consistently.

Virat Kohli's ongoing lean patch with the willow is a huge concern for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. Kohli has been backed constantly by the Indian team management but has failed to notch up big knocks consistently. He had a disastrous campaign during India's recently-concluded tour of England and has not returned to action since. Kohli had opted for a break following the conclusion of the England tour and went on to miss India's tour of the West Indies and Zimbabwe. The senior batter is all set to make his comeback for the Indian team in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway in UAE on August 28. There has been a raging debate over Kohli's woeful form with several former cricketers and experts also calling for the superstar batter to be dropped from India's T20I side ahead of the T20 World Cup this year. However, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed Kohli to bounce back soon. Pathan explained why Asia Cup 2022 will be an important tournament for Kohli stating that the Indian batter cannot head into the World Cup looking to still find his form. Pathan believes returning to top form in Asia Cup will be a huge boost for Kohli and the Indian team looking forward to the T20 World Cup. Also Read: Shahid Afridi responds as fan asks him to come out of retirement to replace injured Shaheen in Asia Cup 2022 "As far as the mind is concerned, what Virat Kohli will be thinking, what kind of mindset he will be coming in with and playing the matches, I think yes, Asia Cup is very, very important but when I look forward to the World Cup, where the pitches will be very, very good in Australia, which he likes, he thrives on Australian pitches, he's done really well," Pathan said on Star Sports. "So Indian team needs Virat Kohli in top form. He comes back from Asia Cup in top form, I think it's a win-win situation for Virat Kohli and the Indian team. "Indian team has so many options, they need to choose from the options. Because you need someone going into the World Cup in good form. You cannot not have form in the World Cup. You can't find form in the World Cup," he added. Also Read: Irfan Pathan takes a sly dig at Waqar Younis after his 'relief for India' tweet on Shaheen Afridi's injury Kohli, who missed the last edition of the tournament in the UAE in 2018, is the second highest run-getter in the Asia Cup among active cricketers with 766 runs in 16 matches at a brilliant average of 63.83. He will be hoping to extend his dominance in the tournament this year.

You can't find form in the World Cup: Irfan Pathan explains why Asia Cup will be important for Virat Kohli

<p>There is no dearth of excitement and hype when it comes to a clash between India and Pakistan in cricket. The arch-rivals share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of the game and any game involving the two sides is always a blockbuster affair with millions across the globe glued to their television screens.</p>

<p>The clash between India and Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 is going to be no different as the two teams gear up to lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28. However, the game is set to be short on firepower when it comes to the pace attacks of both teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India are set to miss Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel, Pakistan were handed a huge setback on Saturday (August 20) when fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was ruled out of the tournament due to an injury. Afridi's absence certainly is a big blow to Pakistan's chances and his absence will be felt when Babar Azam &amp; Co. lock horns with India in the marquee clash.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-relief-for-indian-batsmen-pakistan-legend-on-shaheen-shah-afridis-injury-ahead-of-asia-cup-2022-508835">'Big relief for Indian batsmen': Pakistan legend on Shaheen Shah Afridi's injury ahead of Asia Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>Reacting to the news of Afridi's injury, Pakistan pace legend Waqar Younis said the fast bowler's absence is a 'big relief' for India's top-order batters. "Shaheen’s injury Big relief for the Indian top order batsmen. Sad we won’t be seeing him in #AsiaCup2022. Get fit soon Champ," he wrote in a tweet.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shaheen’s injury Big relief for the Indian top order batsmen. Sad we won’t be seeing him in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> Get fit soon Champ <a href="https://twitter.com/iShaheenAfridi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iShaheenAfridi</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fosph7yVHs">pic.twitter.com/Fosph7yVHs</a></p>
— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) <a href="https://twitter.com/waqyounis99/status/1561001177445269504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Younis' tweet soon went viral with many Indian fans arguing India still would have been favourites even if Afridi was in the team. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also took notice of Younis' tweet and took a sly dig at the Pakistan great.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pathan reminded Younis of the absence of Bumrah and Harshal from the Indian squad in a cheeky tweet which was likely in response to his post on Afridi's injury. "It’s a relief of other teams that Bumrah and Harshal aren’t playing this Asia cup!," wrote Pathan.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s a relief of other teams that Bumrah and Harshal aren’t playing this Asia cup!</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1561281637018910720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-babar-or-smith-shane-watson-picks-team-india-star-as-the-best-test-batsman-in-the-world-508842">Not Babar or Smith! Shane Watson picks Team India star as the best Test batsman in the world</a></p>

<p>Afridi was one of the stand-out performers for Pakistan the last time they locked horns with India in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. He bowled a dream spell with the new ball, dismissing Indian openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in quick succession before also sending back Virat Kohli to finish with a three-wicket haul.</p>

<p>India lost the game by ten wickets to suffer their first defeat against Pakistan in a World Cup match. However, a lot has changed since the defeat for the Indian team, which will be led by Rohit Sharma in the Asia Cup 2022. India are yet to lose a T20I series under Rohit's captaincy and will be looking to successfully defend their title at the Asia Cup in the UAE.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


There is no dearth of excitement and hype when it comes to a clash between India and Pakistan in cricket. The arch-rivals share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of the game and any game involving the two sides is always a blockbuster affair with millions across the globe glued to their television screens.

There is no dearth of excitement and hype when it comes to a clash between India and Pakistan in cricket. The arch-rivals share one of the greatest rivalries in the history of the game and any game involving the two sides is always a blockbuster affair with millions across the globe glued to their television screens. The clash between India and Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 is going to be no different as the two teams gear up to lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28. However, the game is set to be short on firepower when it comes to the pace attacks of both teams. While India are set to miss Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel, Pakistan were handed a huge setback on Saturday (August 20) when fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was ruled out of the tournament due to an injury. Afridi's absence certainly is a big blow to Pakistan's chances and his absence will be felt when Babar Azam & Co. lock horns with India in the marquee clash. Also Read: 'Big relief for Indian batsmen': Pakistan legend on Shaheen Shah Afridi's injury ahead of Asia Cup 2022 Reacting to the news of Afridi's injury, Pakistan pace legend Waqar Younis said the fast bowler's absence is a 'big relief' for India's top-order batters. "Shaheen’s injury Big relief for the Indian top order batsmen. Sad we won’t be seeing him in #AsiaCup2022. Get fit soon Champ," he wrote in a tweet. Shaheen’s injury Big relief for the Indian top order batsmen. Sad we won’t be seeing him in #AsiaCup2022 Get fit soon Champ @iShaheenAfridi pic.twitter.com/Fosph7yVHs — Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) August 20, 2022 × Younis' tweet soon went viral with many Indian fans arguing India still would have been favourites even if Afridi was in the team. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also took notice of Younis' tweet and took a sly dig at the Pakistan great. Pathan reminded Younis of the absence of Bumrah and Harshal from the Indian squad in a cheeky tweet which was likely in response to his post on Afridi's injury. "It’s a relief of other teams that Bumrah and Harshal aren’t playing this Asia cup!," wrote Pathan. It’s a relief of other teams that Bumrah and Harshal aren’t playing this Asia cup! — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 21, 2022 × Also Read: Not Babar or Smith! Shane Watson picks Team India star as the best Test batsman in the world Afridi was one of the stand-out performers for Pakistan the last time they locked horns with India in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. He bowled a dream spell with the new ball, dismissing Indian openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in quick succession before also sending back Virat Kohli to finish with a three-wicket haul. India lost the game by ten wickets to suffer their first defeat against Pakistan in a World Cup match. However, a lot has changed since the defeat for the Indian team, which will be led by Rohit Sharma in the Asia Cup 2022. India are yet to lose a T20I series under Rohit's captaincy and will be looking to successfully defend their title at the Asia Cup in the UAE.

Irfan Pathan takes a sly dig at Waqar Younis after his 'relief for India' tweet on Shaheen Afridi's injury

<p>The BCCI selection committee announced a 16-member Team India squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies, starting on&nbsp;July 22. Shikhar Dhawan has been named the captain of the second-stringed side as regulars&nbsp;skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul have been rested.</p>

<p>The likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Md Siraj, Axar Patel will get opportunities in&nbsp;regulars' absence. Ravindra Jadeja has been named the vice-captain for the upcoming series on the Caribbean island. While Rohit, Kohli &amp; the likes are expected to return for the five T20Is, after the ODIs, former Indian all-rounder-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan&nbsp;took to social media to take a dig at the selection policy. The 37-year-old claimed that&nbsp;players won't return to form with them being rested at regular intervals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shikhar-dhawan-to-lead-team-india-in-odi-series-against-wi-494954">India tour of WI: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli &amp; other big guns rested</a></strong></p>

<p>"No one comes back to form while resting', said&nbsp;Pathan&nbsp;in a tweet with many fans also questioning the absence of the star players.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No one comes back to form while resting…</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1544636566689177600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Among the rested players, Kohli's form remains a cause of concern for the national side. He only managed 31 runs in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test whereas Rohit has also been out of action since IPL 2022, where he didn't even manage a single fifty-plus score. With the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, from October-November in Australia, India need their big guns to play regularly,&nbsp;regain form and remain fit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937">Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>India squad for WI ODI series</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh</p>


The BCCI selection committee announced a 16-member Team India squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies, starting on July 22. Shikhar Dhawan has been named the captain of the second-stringed side as regulars skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul have been rested.

The BCCI selection committee announced a 16-member Team India squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies, starting on July 22. Shikhar Dhawan has been named the captain of the second-stringed side as regulars skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul have been rested. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Md Siraj, Axar Patel will get opportunities in regulars' absence. Ravindra Jadeja has been named the vice-captain for the upcoming series on the Caribbean island. While Rohit, Kohli & the likes are expected to return for the five T20Is, after the ODIs, former Indian all-rounder-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan took to social media to take a dig at the selection policy. The 37-year-old claimed that players won't return to form with them being rested at regular intervals. ALSO READ | India tour of WI: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli & other big guns rested "No one comes back to form while resting', said Pathan in a tweet with many fans also questioning the absence of the star players. No one comes back to form while resting… — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) July 6, 2022 × Among the rested players, Kohli's form remains a cause of concern for the national side. He only managed 31 runs in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test whereas Rohit has also been out of action since IPL 2022, where he didn't even manage a single fifty-plus score. With the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, from October-November in Australia, India need their big guns to play regularly, regain form and remain fit. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test India squad for WI ODI series Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh

'No one comes back to form....' - Irfan Pathan questions Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's absence from WI ODI squad

<p>India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series.</p>

<p>The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.</p>

<p>DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of&nbsp;29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He&nbsp;had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly&nbsp;made match-winning contributions, unlike DK.</p>

<p>Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit &amp; Co., naming DK over Pant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830"><strong>WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;<em>Star Sports,</em>&nbsp;Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added.</p>

<p>Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-the-finisher-who-is-far-from-finished-489375">Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup:</strong>&nbsp;KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.</p>


India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19).

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series. The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of 29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly made match-winning contributions, unlike DK. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit & Co., naming DK over Pant. ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added. Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup: KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI

<p>Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them.</p>

<p>In this regard, Pathan feels Dravid must have given role clarity to a new-looking Indian squad which is gearing up to face Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the five-match T20I series at home and must have communicated what he wants from KL Rahul the batter and captain (in regular skipper Rohit Sharma's absence).</p>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan said, "It is extremely necessary and the clarity would have been given. I have been saying that since Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I have played under his captaincy, his biggest thing is the clarity of role.</p>

<p>“It is not that the earlier coaches have not done that, Ravi Shastri was there and Virat Kohli was captaining, but he (Dravid) will take it one step ahead. I have full belief the communication would have happened and KL Rahul would have been told that if he is the captain, it means he is the next in line,” he further added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-head-coach-rahul-dravid-gives-pep-talk-as-team-india-begin-training-for-south-africa-t20i-series-485649"><strong>WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series</strong></a></p>

<p>The Dravid-Rahul-led Indian team will be eager to get off to a winning start in the five T20Is as they are preparing hard for this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the second half of 2022. For the SA series, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested.</p>

<p><strong>India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;</strong>KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik</p>


Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them. In this regard, Pathan feels Dravid must have given role clarity to a new-looking Indian squad which is gearing up to face Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the five-match T20I series at home and must have communicated what he wants from KL Rahul the batter and captain (in regular skipper Rohit Sharma's absence). Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan said, "It is extremely necessary and the clarity would have been given. I have been saying that since Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I have played under his captaincy, his biggest thing is the clarity of role. “It is not that the earlier coaches have not done that, Ravi Shastri was there and Virat Kohli was captaining, but he (Dravid) will take it one step ahead. I have full belief the communication would have happened and KL Rahul would have been told that if he is the captain, it means he is the next in line,” he further added. ALSO READ | WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series The Dravid-Rahul-led Indian team will be eager to get off to a winning start in the five T20Is as they are preparing hard for this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the second half of 2022. For the SA series, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

KL Rahul would've been told he's next-in-line: Irfan Pathan on Rahul Dravid's communication with India captain

irfan-pathan

Irfan Pathan, News on Irfan Pathan, stories on Irfan Pathan, articles on Irfan Pathan, Irfan Pathan stories at Wion, Irfan Pathan news, Irfan Pathan latest news

irfan pathan