India captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">upcoming World Cup</a>.

Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Sussex quick, capable of bowling at 90 miles-an-hour (145 kmh), celebrated his inclusion by setting his sights on dismissing Kohli, long one of the world's leading batsmen, during the competition. &nbsp;

"I'd quite like to get&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli out because I wasn't able to in the IPL," Archer, who only qualified for England in March, told Sky Sports.

Kohli, who had been told of Archer's comments at a captains' press conference in London on Thursday, said: "That's news to me, news to Morgs (England skipper Eoin Morgan) as well. I don't really focus on these things.

"I take a lot of pride in performing well for the team and making a big impact on each game I play, so if Jofra said that it's a big compliment as he himself is a world-class bowler."

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'Intimidating'

Kohli added: "And the way he has come through in the IPL over the last couple of years, I have seen him and he's played all around the world and done well so there's a good reason why he's been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like the World Cup.

"I think he's going to be the X-factor because he has all the skill-sets and he's very different from anyone else.

"He can generate a lot of pace, which can be intimidating, and you don't really expect that from his run-up."

England have climbed to the top of the ODI rankings since their humiliating group-stage exit at the 2015 World Cup and are threatening the smash the 500-run barrier, once considered all but impossible in 50 overs.

But Kohli predicted that some World Cup matches would be low-scoring affairs.&nbsp;

"They (England) seem to be obsessed with getting to 500 before anyone else," he said. "They smash it from ball one and for the full 50 overs."

"It could be pretty high scoring, but 260-270 is going to be as difficult to get as chasing 370, 380 in a World Cup," he added.

"When you get closer to the knockout phase that is going to bring greater pressure and no-one is going to go gung-ho from ball one," he said.

"Generally teams will find a way but I see pressure playing a massive role."

England launch the World Cup against South Africa at The Oval on May 30.

With all 10 teams playing each other in the group phase, England are scheduled to play India at Edgbaston on June 30.

India captain Virat Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the upcoming World Cup. Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals.

India captain Virat Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the upcoming World Cup. Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals. The 24-year-old Sussex quick, capable of bowling at 90 miles-an-hour (145 kmh), celebrated his inclusion by setting his sights on dismissing Kohli, long one of the world's leading batsmen, during the competition. "I'd quite like to get Virat Kohli out because I wasn't able to in the IPL," Archer, who only qualified for England in March, told Sky Sports. Kohli, who had been told of Archer's comments at a captains' press conference in London on Thursday, said: "That's news to me, news to Morgs (England skipper Eoin Morgan) as well. I don't really focus on these things. "I take a lot of pride in performing well for the team and making a big impact on each game I play, so if Jofra said that it's a big compliment as he himself is a world-class bowler." × 'Intimidating' Kohli added: "And the way he has come through in the IPL over the last couple of years, I have seen him and he's played all around the world and done well so there's a good reason why he's been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like the World Cup. "I think he's going to be the X-factor because he has all the skill-sets and he's very different from anyone else. "He can generate a lot of pace, which can be intimidating, and you don't really expect that from his run-up." England have climbed to the top of the ODI rankings since their humiliating group-stage exit at the 2015 World Cup and are threatening the smash the 500-run barrier, once considered all but impossible in 50 overs. But Kohli predicted that some World Cup matches would be low-scoring affairs. "They (England) seem to be obsessed with getting to 500 before anyone else," he said. "They smash it from ball one and for the full 50 overs." "It could be pretty high scoring, but 260-270 is going to be as difficult to get as chasing 370, 380 in a World Cup," he added. "When you get closer to the knockout phase that is going to bring greater pressure and no-one is going to go gung-ho from ball one," he said. "Generally teams will find a way but I see pressure playing a massive role." England launch the World Cup against South Africa at The Oval on May 30. With all 10 teams playing each other in the group phase, England are scheduled to play India at Edgbaston on June 30.

Virat Kohli honoured to be World Cup target for 'X-factor' Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer has received the seal of approval from cricket's biggest global star, with India captain Virat Kohli hailing the England newcomer as a potential World Cup X factor.

'He's their X factor' says Kohli about England's Archer ahead of Cricket World Cup

Jofra Archer's late bid for a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#england-211485">England's 15-man squad for the tournament</a> announced Tuesday.

Barbados-born Archer only became qualified for England in March and has played just three one-day internationals.

He edged out left-arm quick David Willey, a veteran of 46 ODIs, after both pacemen featured during England's 4-0 series win at home to Pakistan which concluded Sunday.

There was no place also in a squad again captained by Eoin Morgan for back-up spinner and batsman Joe Denly, with Hampshire slow left-arm Liam Dawson -- who did not feature against Pakistan -- recalled as cover for Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali.

James Vince came in for Alex Hales after England decided against picking the Nottinghamshire batsman following a ban for recreational drug use.

England, the&nbsp;world's top-ranked ODI side, are bidding to win the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;for the first time.

They launch the tournament against South Africa at The Oval on May 30.

England&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;squad:

Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Jofra Archer's late bid for a World Cup place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts England's 15-man squad for the tournament announced Tuesday.

Jofra Archer's late bid for a World Cup place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts England's 15-man squad for the tournament announced Tuesday. Barbados-born Archer only became qualified for England in March and has played just three one-day internationals. He edged out left-arm quick David Willey, a veteran of 46 ODIs, after both pacemen featured during England's 4-0 series win at home to Pakistan which concluded Sunday. There was no place also in a squad again captained by Eoin Morgan for back-up spinner and batsman Joe Denly, with Hampshire slow left-arm Liam Dawson -- who did not feature against Pakistan -- recalled as cover for Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali. James Vince came in for Alex Hales after England decided against picking the Nottinghamshire batsman following a ban for recreational drug use. England, the world's top-ranked ODI side, are bidding to win the World Cup for the first time. They launch the tournament against South Africa at The Oval on May 30. England World Cup squad: Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Jofra Archer in England's World Cup squad as David Willey and Joe Denly miss out

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/transformed-england-favourites-to-win-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-216311&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8ssTAlYniAhUPT48KHS3-CJoQFjAGegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0m9VQhMS3aY8HSShqev-aB">England</a> Test-captain Joe Root on Tuesday said it was nice to get off to a winning start against Pakistan in the one-off T20I and was delighted seeing the crux of the team together.

"It`s exciting to see the crux of the squad together and to start the journey of the summer. And for us to find a way of winning two games, I know this is a different format, but the majority of the squad will be around for the 50-over stuff," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Root as saying.

"It was a great chance for us to start going in the right direction, to get some momentum going into the one-day series. It`s really pleasing to be two from two and, hopefully, now carry that forward throughout those five games," he added.

England registered a seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in a one-off T20I on Sunday and the pleasing fact for the team was that the win was achieved in the absence of key players like Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, and Ben Stokes.

Jofra Archer, the latest addition to the limited-overs team of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-overcome-batting-collapse-to-beat-ireland-by-four-wickets-in-the-one-off-odi-leading-to-the-world-cup-215823&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmx5r2lYniAhVWnY8KHcpYC4gQFjAGegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tWe15yngmIOy77uQJxcWb">England</a>, made a good impression in the T20I scalping two wickets and Root was seen addressing the value addition Archer brings to the team.

"You could see the value of what he could bring to a side, that extra bit of zip. He is someone that wants to get into the game and make things happen, which is a brilliant quality to have," Archer said.

"What this game did is provide a huge opportunity for guys who haven`t played a huge amount for England, either before or in recent times. It was really important that those guys got something out of it. It`s about them trying to take that opportunity and us finding a way of winning without a normal-looking T20 side, and I thought it was a fantastic effort from the group to win in the manner that we did," Root&nbsp;added.

England next takes on Pakistan in the five-match ODI series beginning on May 8 at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

England Test-captain Joe Root on Tuesday said it was nice to get off to a winning start against Pakistan in the one-off T20I and was delighted seeing the crux of the team together.

England Test-captain Joe Root on Tuesday said it was nice to get off to a winning start against Pakistan in the one-off T20I and was delighted seeing the crux of the team together. "It`s exciting to see the crux of the squad together and to start the journey of the summer. And for us to find a way of winning two games, I know this is a different format, but the majority of the squad will be around for the 50-over stuff," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Root as saying. "It was a great chance for us to start going in the right direction, to get some momentum going into the one-day series. It`s really pleasing to be two from two and, hopefully, now carry that forward throughout those five games," he added. England registered a seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in a one-off T20I on Sunday and the pleasing fact for the team was that the win was achieved in the absence of key players like Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, and Ben Stokes. Jofra Archer, the latest addition to the limited-overs team of England, made a good impression in the T20I scalping two wickets and Root was seen addressing the value addition Archer brings to the team. "You could see the value of what he could bring to a side, that extra bit of zip. He is someone that wants to get into the game and make things happen, which is a brilliant quality to have," Archer said. "What this game did is provide a huge opportunity for guys who haven`t played a huge amount for England, either before or in recent times. It was really important that those guys got something out of it. It`s about them trying to take that opportunity and us finding a way of winning without a normal-looking T20 side, and I thought it was a fantastic effort from the group to win in the manner that we did," Root added. England next takes on Pakistan in the five-match ODI series beginning on May 8 at the Oval in London.

Exciting to see 'crux of squad' together, says Joe Root after England's T20I win against Pakistan

England captain Eoin Morgan said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/alex-hales-withdrawn-from-englands-world-cup-squad-214471&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjh8KLz6v7hAhVx73MBHXjlAvEQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw06d_yH9NwGWSeSKBauqTrq">Alex Hales</a>'&nbsp;actions showed "complete disregard" for values his team had built in recent years and confirmed it was the senior players who wanted the batsman to play no part in their World Cup preparations.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) dropped Hales from England`s preliminary World Cup squad after the Guardian reported the player had tested positive for recreational drugs.

Speaking ahead of England's one-off one-dayer against Ireland, Morgan discussed the process by which Hales was removed from the squad.

"I spoke to the coach (Trevor Bayliss) at depth and I spoke to all of our senior players - I actually called the meeting with the senior players to discuss moving forward, how it would affect the team and the team culture'', Morgan said.

"We've been working extremely hard over the last 18 months to try and build that team culture and established values that we could adhere to. But with this Alex has clearly demonstrated a lack of respect for these values, and there has been a complete breakdown of trust between the team and Alex. Out of that meeting, everybody agreed that the best decision was for Alex to be de-selected", Morgan added.

Hales was fined and suspended for his part in a nightclub altercation which also involved teammate Ben Stokes in 2017.

Morgan said the decision to remove Hales from the group had been reached after consulting with Joe Root, Moeen Ali, Stokes, Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes at the team’s training camp in Cardiff last weekend.

"We will need at least 15 men to win that World Cup," Morgan said.&nbsp;

"For whatever way Alex would have dealt with it, the other 14 people would have been dragged down and that would have been quite a weight taken forward, and that didn`t outweigh his performance", Morgan added.

Morgan confirmed all-rounder Jofra Archer will make his much-anticipated England debut against Ireland, while Dawid Malan and wicketkeeper Ben Foakes will also feature for the first time.

England captain Eoin Morgan said Alex Hales' actions showed "complete disregard" for values his team had built in recent years and confirmed it was the senior players who wanted the batsman to play no part in their World Cup preparations.

England captain Eoin Morgan said Alex Hales' actions showed "complete disregard" for values his team had built in recent years and confirmed it was the senior players who wanted the batsman to play no part in their World Cup preparations. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) dropped Hales from England`s preliminary World Cup squad after the Guardian reported the player had tested positive for recreational drugs. Speaking ahead of England's one-off one-dayer against Ireland, Morgan discussed the process by which Hales was removed from the squad. "I spoke to the coach (Trevor Bayliss) at depth and I spoke to all of our senior players - I actually called the meeting with the senior players to discuss moving forward, how it would affect the team and the team culture'', Morgan said. "We've been working extremely hard over the last 18 months to try and build that team culture and established values that we could adhere to. But with this Alex has clearly demonstrated a lack of respect for these values, and there has been a complete breakdown of trust between the team and Alex. Out of that meeting, everybody agreed that the best decision was for Alex to be de-selected", Morgan added. Hales was fined and suspended for his part in a nightclub altercation which also involved teammate Ben Stokes in 2017. Morgan said the decision to remove Hales from the group had been reached after consulting with Joe Root, Moeen Ali, Stokes, Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes at the team’s training camp in Cardiff last weekend. "We will need at least 15 men to win that World Cup," Morgan said. "For whatever way Alex would have dealt with it, the other 14 people would have been dragged down and that would have been quite a weight taken forward, and that didn`t outweigh his performance", Morgan added. Morgan confirmed all-rounder Jofra Archer will make his much-anticipated England debut against Ireland, while Dawid Malan and wicketkeeper Ben Foakes will also feature for the first time.

Alex Hales showed 'lack of respect' for England teammates, says captain Eoin Morgan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/lenders-reject-jet-airways-request-for-rs-400-crore-emergency-funding-sources-211192">Lenders reject Jet Airways funding request, flights grounded: Sources</a>

Cash-strapped Jet Airways which had requested for Rs 400 crore funding from banks as a form of "emergency liquidity support" has been rejected, PTI sources said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firmly-oppose-forcing-new-resolution-through-unsc-on-masood-azhar-china-211140">Firmly oppose forcing new resolution through UNSC on Masood Azhar: China</a>

China on Wednesday dismissed reports that it had been served an ultimatum until April 23 by the US, UK and France to lift its "technical hold" on designating Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist but claimed that the vexed issue is moving towards settlement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madras-high-court-upholds-election-commissions-decision-to-cancel-vellore-lok-sabha-polls-211196">Madras High Court upholds EC decision to cancel Vellore Lok Sabha polls</a>

Madras High Court today upheld the decision of Election Commission of India to cancel the election to Vellore Lok Sabha constituency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joko-widodo-leading-in-early-count-in-indonesia-pollsters-211136">Joko Widodo leading in early count in Indonesia: Pollsters</a>

Indonesia's Joko Widodo was on track to be re-elected leader of the world's third-biggest democracy with pollsters giving him a wide lead over rival Prabowo Subianto, a firebrand ex-general, hours after voting closed Wednesday across the 17,000-island archipelago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-name-preliminary-world-cup-squad-jofra-archer-left-out-211187">IPL 2019 hero Jofra Archer left out as England name preliminary World Cup squad</a>

England have not picked uncapped all-rounder Jofra Archer in a preliminary 15-man World Cup squad but have named him in squads for the warm-up games against Pakistan and Ireland.

 
&nbsp;

Lenders reject Jet Airways funding request, flights grounded: Sources Cash-strapped Jet Airways which had requested for Rs 400 crore funding from banks as a form of "emergency liquidity support" has been rejected, PTI sources said.

Lenders reject Jet Airways funding request, flights grounded: Sources Cash-strapped Jet Airways which had requested for Rs 400 crore funding from banks as a form of "emergency liquidity support" has been rejected, PTI sources said. Firmly oppose forcing new resolution through UNSC on Masood Azhar: China China on Wednesday dismissed reports that it had been served an ultimatum until April 23 by the US, UK and France to lift its "technical hold" on designating Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist but claimed that the vexed issue is moving towards settlement. Madras High Court upholds EC decision to cancel Vellore Lok Sabha polls Madras High Court today upheld the decision of Election Commission of India to cancel the election to Vellore Lok Sabha constituency. Joko Widodo leading in early count in Indonesia: Pollsters Indonesia's Joko Widodo was on track to be re-elected leader of the world's third-biggest democracy with pollsters giving him a wide lead over rival Prabowo Subianto, a firebrand ex-general, hours after voting closed Wednesday across the 17,000-island archipelago. IPL 2019 hero Jofra Archer left out as England name preliminary World Cup squad England have not picked uncapped all-rounder Jofra Archer in a preliminary 15-man World Cup squad but have named him in squads for the warm-up games against Pakistan and Ireland.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The 2008 champions of Indian Premier League is expected to raise their game in the upcoming edition of India's annual cricket carnival which will kick off from March 23.

Rajasthan Royals have made very smart choices when they purchased players like Jaydev Unadkat, Oshane Thomas, Varun Aaron etc.

They already had a well-balanced squad, when they retained Ajinkya Rahane, Krishnappa Gowtham, Sanju Samson, Stuart Binny, Rahul Tripathi, Ben Stokes, Steve Smith, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mahipal Lomror and few more.

RR made a return in IPL 2018 after completing a two-year ban but suffered a huge set back when their star player and skipper Steve Smith was banned from participating in IPL because of his involvement in a ball-tampering scandal that rocked the cricketing world.

In the absence of Smith, Ajinkya Rahane stepped up and lead the team but as a player, he failed to deliver with his bat.

Same goes with Ben Stokes, who was last season's most expensive buy, ended up as an unprofitable asset.

Also, Sanju Samson who failed last year despite starting the season as one of the orange cap contenders but keeping his performances in previous seasons in mind, it is very evident that Samson has potential.

But Jos Buttler, who made crucial contributions to the team and stepped up at various instances in last season, is expected to do it again.

Buttler has been consistent with his performance for the England cricket team.

Batting department this time is strengthened with the presence of Steve Smith as he is expected to raise his game for Royals.

Playing for Rajasthan Royals will be a huge thing for Smith as this is the only cricket he will be playing before World Cup, where he will make an international comeback.

Ajinkya Rahane, Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson and Steve Smith are key players in the batting unit.

Followed by Ben Stokes, Aston Turner in the mid, however, players like Jaydev Unadkat and Varun Aaron need to deliver to cut pressure off main batsmen as and when required.

However, Australia's&nbsp;rising sensation Ashton Turner is unavailable for first three games for Royals due to international commitment against Pakistan.

In the bowling unit, Royals have two good spinners which are Shreyas Gopal and K Gowtham and their combination might prove lethal.

Jofra Archer, who is doing well in England's domestic set up, will lead the pace attack along with the new buy Oshane Thomas.

But the lack of backup bowling options is a major threat for the team.

Players like Steve Smith, Ajinkya Rahane, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Ashton Turner will look to deliver their level best considering the World Cup looming in.

Royals finished fourth last season and have the potential to make a come back and emerge as an unlikely hero.

Here is the squad list:

Retained: Ajinkya Rahane, Krishnappa Gowtham, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Gopal, Aryaman Birla, S Midhun, Prashant Chopra, Stuart Binny, Rahul Tripathi, Ben Stokes, Steve Smith, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mahipal Lomror

Purchased: Jaydev Unadkat (Rs 8.4 crore), Varun Aaron (Rs 2.4 crore), Oshane Thomas (Rs 1.1 crore), Shashank Singh (Rs 30 lakh), Liam Livingstone (Rs 50 lakh), Shubham Rajane (Rs 20 lakh), Manan Vohra (Rs 20 lakh), Ashton Turner (Rs 50 lakh), Riyan Parag (Rs 20 lakh).

The 2008 champions of Indian Premier League is expected to raise their game in the upcoming edition of India's annual cricket carnival which will kick off from March 23.

The 2008 champions of Indian Premier League is expected to raise their game in the upcoming edition of India's annual cricket carnival which will kick off from March 23. Rajasthan Royals have made very smart choices when they purchased players like Jaydev Unadkat, Oshane Thomas, Varun Aaron etc. They already had a well-balanced squad, when they retained Ajinkya Rahane, Krishnappa Gowtham, Sanju Samson, Stuart Binny, Rahul Tripathi, Ben Stokes, Steve Smith, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mahipal Lomror and few more. RR made a return in IPL 2018 after completing a two-year ban but suffered a huge set back when their star player and skipper Steve Smith was banned from participating in IPL because of his involvement in a ball-tampering scandal that rocked the cricketing world. In the absence of Smith, Ajinkya Rahane stepped up and lead the team but as a player, he failed to deliver with his bat. Same goes with Ben Stokes, who was last season's most expensive buy, ended up as an unprofitable asset. Also, Sanju Samson who failed last year despite starting the season as one of the orange cap contenders but keeping his performances in previous seasons in mind, it is very evident that Samson has potential. But Jos Buttler, who made crucial contributions to the team and stepped up at various instances in last season, is expected to do it again. Buttler has been consistent with his performance for the England cricket team. Batting department this time is strengthened with the presence of Steve Smith as he is expected to raise his game for Royals. Playing for Rajasthan Royals will be a huge thing for Smith as this is the only cricket he will be playing before World Cup, where he will make an international comeback. Ajinkya Rahane, Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson and Steve Smith are key players in the batting unit. Followed by Ben Stokes, Aston Turner in the mid, however, players like Jaydev Unadkat and Varun Aaron need to deliver to cut pressure off main batsmen as and when required. However, Australia's rising sensation Ashton Turner is unavailable for first three games for Royals due to international commitment against Pakistan. In the bowling unit, Royals have two good spinners which are Shreyas Gopal and K Gowtham and their combination might prove lethal. Jofra Archer, who is doing well in England's domestic set up, will lead the pace attack along with the new buy Oshane Thomas. But the lack of backup bowling options is a major threat for the team. Players like Steve Smith, Ajinkya Rahane, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Ashton Turner will look to deliver their level best considering the World Cup looming in. Royals finished fourth last season and have the potential to make a come back and emerge as an unlikely hero. Here is the squad list: Retained: Ajinkya Rahane, Krishnappa Gowtham, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Gopal, Aryaman Birla, S Midhun, Prashant Chopra, Stuart Binny, Rahul Tripathi, Ben Stokes, Steve Smith, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mahipal Lomror Purchased: Jaydev Unadkat (Rs 8.4 crore), Varun Aaron (Rs 2.4 crore), Oshane Thomas (Rs 1.1 crore), Shashank Singh (Rs 30 lakh), Liam Livingstone (Rs 50 lakh), Shubham Rajane (Rs 20 lakh), Manan Vohra (Rs 20 lakh), Ashton Turner (Rs 50 lakh), Riyan Parag (Rs 20 lakh).

IPL 2019: Squad analysis of Rajasthan

Jofra Archer took a one-hand remarkable catch near the boundary rope during a Big Bash League match between Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old bowling all-rounder displayed tremendous fitness by taking such a stunning catch to dismiss Max Bryant for just seven.&nbsp;

Bryant smashed a full-length delivery by James Faulkner but Jofra outstretched his right hand and lobed the ball back, crossed the boundary line and came back quickly to complete the catch.

Archer later impressed with the ball and claimed two big wickets in Chris Lynn (10) and Matt Renshaw (0).

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JOFRA ARCHER STOP IT 😲😲<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL08?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL08</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/BKTtires?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BKTtires</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZjkGB7BjVp">pic.twitter.com/ZjkGB7BjVp</a>
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The BBL has witnessed some top cricketers delighting cricket fans with such remarkable catches from time and again. Earlier this month, all-rounder Ben Cutting suffered a nasty blow to his face while attempting a catch during a BBL match against Melbourne Renegades.

Jofra Archer took a one-hand remarkable catch near the boundary rope during a Big Bash League match between Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat on Tuesday. The 23-year-old bowling all-rounder displayed tremendous fitness by taking such a stunning catch to dismiss Max Bryant for just seven.

Jofra Archer took a one-hand remarkable catch near the boundary rope during a Big Bash League match between Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat on Tuesday. The 23-year-old bowling all-rounder displayed tremendous fitness by taking such a stunning catch to dismiss Max Bryant for just seven. Bryant smashed a full-length delivery by James Faulkner but Jofra outstretched his right hand and lobed the ball back, crossed the boundary line and came back quickly to complete the catch. Archer later impressed with the ball and claimed two big wickets in Chris Lynn (10) and Matt Renshaw (0). JOFRA ARCHER STOP IT 😲😲#BBL08 | @BKTtires pic.twitter.com/ZjkGB7BjVp — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 29, 2019 × The BBL has witnessed some top cricketers delighting cricket fans with such remarkable catches from time and again. Earlier this month, all-rounder Ben Cutting suffered a nasty blow to his face while attempting a catch during a BBL match against Melbourne Renegades.

Watch: Jofra Archer's one-handed stunner near the boundary rope

Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata in the Eliminator match of Indian Premier League 2018 at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.

After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.

On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp

Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI.&nbsp

Playing XI:

Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions

Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata in the Eliminator match of Indian Premier League 2018 at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI. Playing XI: Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

IPL 2018: Ajinkya Rahane opts to bowl against Kolkata in Eliminator match

Rajasthan Royals, the winner of Indian Premier League&#39;s inaugural edition, have marked an exciting return after a two-year ban with a very special and important cricketer, Shayne Warne, not as a player but as a mentor.

On his return, he said, &quot;I am very happy and excited to be back with the Rajasthan Royals who I believe hold a very special place in my cricketing journey.

In the year 2015, Rajasthan Royals was found guilty in an illegal betting and match-fixing probe along with another IPL giant, Chennai Super Kings. The panel also suspended Royals co-owner Raj Kundra from all cricket-related activities for life.

Now, the franchise is owned by Manoj Badale along with Aditya Chellaram, Lachlan Murdoch, Ryan Tkalcevic and Suresh Chellaram.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-ms-dhonis-yellow-brigade-35660">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of MS Dhoni&#39;s &#39;Yellow Brigade&#39;</a>

If we talk about the team, Rajasthan Royals had retained an aggressive and intense Australian batsman Steve Smith before entering the auctions and used Right To Match card (RTM) to purchase calm and composed Ajinkya Rahane.

During the auction, they had shown an intent of structuring a well-balanced team by purchasing a variety of players. They made the most expensive buys of all time in the form of England&#39;s all-rounder, Ben Stokes for an amount of 12.5 cr.

Steve Smith-led Royals look alike another Pune Super Giants as most of Pune&#39;s talent have landed in Rajasthan.

They are definitely banking upon more overseas players especially all-rounders, who can provide options to the team but they do have a tangy Indian obscure flavour.

Foreigners like, Steve Smith, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, D&#39;Arcy Short, are some crucial investments along with Indian talents Ajinkya Rahane, Rahul Tripathi, Stuart Binny, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jaydev Unadkat.

Sanju Samson and Ajinkya Rahane will probably open for Rajasthan&nbsp;and there is&nbsp;a depth of batting in&nbsp;line up in the form of Steve Smith, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-653#photo-36184">IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list</a>

Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Stuart Binny have a good IPL record and can provide a winning essence to the team.

Jayadev Unadkat, the best purchase when it comes to bowling along with Dhawal Kulkarni, Jofra Archer but the team lacks in spin department as spinners Dushmantha Chameera and K Gowtham need to prove their talents in a larger extent.

All in all, Rajasthan Royals is a team whose playing XI is massive in terms of variety but if any player misfires or suffers an injury then the option of replacement is less as the bench is comparatively inexperienced.

Here is the complete squad of the Rajasthan Royals:&nbsp;Steve Smith,&nbsp;Ben Stokes, Ajinkya Rahane, Stuart Binny, Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, Rahul Tripathi, D&#39;Arcy Short, Jofra Archer, K Gowtham, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat, Ankit Sharma, Anureet Singh, Zahir Khan Pakteen, Shreyas Gopal, MS Midhun, Prashant Chopra, Ben Laughlin, Mahipal Lomror, Aryaman Birla, Jatin Saxena, Dushmantha Chameera

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From Dhoni to Kohli, here&#39;s a list of all the leading run-scorers in IPL. Number 1 rank might surprise you (Zee News Network)
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Steve Smith-led Royals look alike another Pune Super Giants as most of Pune's talent have landed in Rajasthan

Rajasthan Royals, the winner of Indian Premier League's inaugural edition, have marked an exciting return after a two-year ban with a very special and important cricketer, Shayne Warne, not as a player but as a mentor. On his return, he said, "I am very happy and excited to be back with the Rajasthan Royals who I believe hold a very special place in my cricketing journey. In the year 2015, Rajasthan Royals was found guilty in an illegal betting and match-fixing probe along with another IPL giant, Chennai Super Kings. The panel also suspended Royals co-owner Raj Kundra from all cricket-related activities for life. Now, the franchise is owned by Manoj Badale along with Aditya Chellaram, Lachlan Murdoch, Ryan Tkalcevic and Suresh Chellaram. IPL 2018: Squad analysis of MS Dhoni's 'Yellow Brigade' If we talk about the team, Rajasthan Royals had retained an aggressive and intense Australian batsman Steve Smith before entering the auctions and used Right To Match card (RTM) to purchase calm and composed Ajinkya Rahane. During the auction, they had shown an intent of structuring a well-balanced team by purchasing a variety of players. They made the most expensive buys of all time in the form of England's all-rounder, Ben Stokes for an amount of 12.5 cr. Steve Smith-led Royals look alike another Pune Super Giants as most of Pune's talent have landed in Rajasthan. They are definitely banking upon more overseas players especially all-rounders, who can provide options to the team but they do have a tangy Indian obscure flavour. Foreigners like, Steve Smith, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, D'Arcy Short, are some crucial investments along with Indian talents Ajinkya Rahane, Rahul Tripathi, Stuart Binny, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jaydev Unadkat. Sanju Samson and Ajinkya Rahane will probably open for Rajasthan and there is a depth of batting in line up in the form of Steve Smith, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler. IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Stuart Binny have a good IPL record and can provide a winning essence to the team. Jayadev Unadkat, the best purchase when it comes to bowling along with Dhawal Kulkarni, Jofra Archer but the team lacks in spin department as spinners Dushmantha Chameera and K Gowtham need to prove their talents in a larger extent. All in all, Rajasthan Royals is a team whose playing XI is massive in terms of variety but if any player misfires or suffers an injury then the option of replacement is less as the bench is comparatively inexperienced. Here is the complete squad of the Rajasthan Royals: Steve Smith, Ben Stokes, Ajinkya Rahane, Stuart Binny, Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, Rahul Tripathi, D'Arcy Short, Jofra Archer, K Gowtham, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat, Ankit Sharma, Anureet Singh, Zahir Khan Pakteen, Shreyas Gopal, MS Midhun, Prashant Chopra, Ben Laughlin, Mahipal Lomror, Aryaman Birla, Jatin Saxena, Dushmantha Chameera From Dhoni to Kohli, here's a list of all the leading run-scorers in IPL. Number 1 rank might surprise you (Zee News Network) ×

IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns

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