<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rohit-sharma-hits-record-fifth-century-at-a-single-world-cup-233640">Rohit Sharma became the first player </a>to make five centuries in a single World Cup match and his opening partner KL Rahul also struck a fluent century as India crushed Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their final group match at Headingley on Saturday.

India had already qualified for the last four and will finish top of the standings if Australia lose to South Africa in their last group match.

Sri Lanka, who failed to reach the semi-finals, slumped to 55-4 in the 12th over before Angelo Mathews smashed his first century in nearly two years to help them to a respectable 264-7.

Rohit and Rahul made a mincemeat of the Sri Lankan attack to add 189 runs, the highest opening stand at this World Cup, which effectively settled the match.

Captain Virat Kohli made 34 not out as India romped home with 39 balls to spare for their seventh win in nine matches.

"We wanted to play good cricket but we didn't expect this kind of scoreline heading into the semis," Kohli said, referring to India's 7-1 win-loss record in the group stage.

If India top the standings they will play New Zealand in the semi-finals and if they finish second they will face hosts England.

"For us the opposition never matters...if we don't play well anyone can beat us," Kohli said. "If we play well we can beat anyone. The focus has to be within."

Sri Lanka pace spearhead Lasith Malinga completed figures of 1-82 in his final World Cup match.

Earlier, Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and unsurprisingly elected to bat in a rematch of the 2011 final between the neighbours.

Jasprit Bumrah rocked the islanders early with a two-wicket burst and Mahendra Singh Dhoni was busy behind the stumps as Sri Lanka lost their top four batsmen soon after crossing the 50-mark.

Both Karunaratne and Kusal Perera fell caught behind off Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja did not have to wait for success in his first match at this year's World Cup.

The left-arm spinner lured Kusal Mendis out of the crease for Dhoni, who was involved in each of the first four dismissals, to effect a simple stumping.

Mathews and Lahiru Thirimanne (53) refused to throw in the towel, though, their defiant 124-run stand raising Sri Lankan hopes.

Dropped on 61 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mathews went on to complete his third one-day century, including two sixes and 10 fours, before Bumrah dismissed him for 113 in the penultimate over.

Sri Lanka toiled for 30 overs without success as Rohit and Rahul flayed their attack all round the ground.

Rohit smacked Dhananjaya de Silva for two sixes, the first one bringing up his 50, and reached his third successive hundred with a boundary off Kasun Rajitha.

The disdain they had for the Sri Lanka attack was best illustrated in the ramp shot Rahul played, bending back and lowering himself before guiding the ball over the wicketkeeper's head to the boundary.

Rohit's onslaught ended on 103 when he drove Rajitha to mid-off and Rahul's 111 included 11 fours and a six.

"We ended up with close to 280 which was a good score," Karunaratne said.

"We kept losing wickets, and didn't capitalise on a good start...But Rohit and Rahul batted really well."

Rohit Sharma became the first player to make five centuries in a single World Cup match and his opening partner KL Rahul also struck a fluent century as India crushed Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their final group match at Headingley on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma became the first player to make five centuries in a single World Cup match and his opening partner KL Rahul also struck a fluent century as India crushed Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their final group match at Headingley on Saturday. India had already qualified for the last four and will finish top of the standings if Australia lose to South Africa in their last group match. Sri Lanka, who failed to reach the semi-finals, slumped to 55-4 in the 12th over before Angelo Mathews smashed his first century in nearly two years to help them to a respectable 264-7. Rohit and Rahul made a mincemeat of the Sri Lankan attack to add 189 runs, the highest opening stand at this World Cup, which effectively settled the match. Captain Virat Kohli made 34 not out as India romped home with 39 balls to spare for their seventh win in nine matches. "We wanted to play good cricket but we didn't expect this kind of scoreline heading into the semis," Kohli said, referring to India's 7-1 win-loss record in the group stage. If India top the standings they will play New Zealand in the semi-finals and if they finish second they will face hosts England. "For us the opposition never matters...if we don't play well anyone can beat us," Kohli said. "If we play well we can beat anyone. The focus has to be within." Sri Lanka pace spearhead Lasith Malinga completed figures of 1-82 in his final World Cup match. Earlier, Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and unsurprisingly elected to bat in a rematch of the 2011 final between the neighbours. Jasprit Bumrah rocked the islanders early with a two-wicket burst and Mahendra Singh Dhoni was busy behind the stumps as Sri Lanka lost their top four batsmen soon after crossing the 50-mark. Both Karunaratne and Kusal Perera fell caught behind off Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja did not have to wait for success in his first match at this year's World Cup. The left-arm spinner lured Kusal Mendis out of the crease for Dhoni, who was involved in each of the first four dismissals, to effect a simple stumping. Mathews and Lahiru Thirimanne (53) refused to throw in the towel, though, their defiant 124-run stand raising Sri Lankan hopes. Dropped on 61 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mathews went on to complete his third one-day century, including two sixes and 10 fours, before Bumrah dismissed him for 113 in the penultimate over. Sri Lanka toiled for 30 overs without success as Rohit and Rahul flayed their attack all round the ground. Rohit smacked Dhananjaya de Silva for two sixes, the first one bringing up his 50, and reached his third successive hundred with a boundary off Kasun Rajitha. The disdain they had for the Sri Lanka attack was best illustrated in the ramp shot Rahul played, bending back and lowering himself before guiding the ball over the wicketkeeper's head to the boundary. Rohit's onslaught ended on 103 when he drove Rajitha to mid-off and Rahul's 111 included 11 fours and a six. "We ended up with close to 280 which was a good score," Karunaratne said. "We kept losing wickets, and didn't capitalise on a good start...But Rohit and Rahul batted really well."

India beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets in Cricket World Cup

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rohit-sharma-presents-injured-fan-with-yellow-autographed-bat-after-sixer-ball-hit-her-232572">Rohit Sharma</a>, who is in the form of his life.

Rohit produced another sublime innings to notch his fourth hundred of the tournament as India booked their semi-final place with a 28-run win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-yorker-specialist-jasprit-bumrah-reaps-benefits-of-net-practice-232568">Bangladesh </a>at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

The right-hander became only the second batsman, after Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, to score four tons&nbsp;at a single World Cup, prompting captain Virat Kohli to dub him the world's leading one-day player.

Rahul, who moved up the order in the absence of injured Shikhar Dhawan, admitted his transition has been easier as Rohit continues to find boundaries at will, easing the pressure in the opening powerplay.

"You would be a fool to be tempted to bat like Rohit because he is in a different class," Rahul told reporters. "He is from a different planet altogether when he gets going.''

"To bat with him is really easy because he takes the pressure off you. He keeps getting the boundaries and the scoreboard keeps ticking, I just have to keep there with him. It is great fun," he added.

Rahul, whose 77 against Bangladesh was his highest score of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indias-most-passionate-fan-in-world-cup-skipper-virat-kohli-greets-her-232567">World Cup</a>, said he was pleased with his steady progress at the top of the order and feels a big score is around the corner.

"Personally, I feel I have been going well, but am not fully satisfied as I haven't carried on after some of the starts," he added.

"When I say 'convert' I mean getting to say 35 or 45 overs as often as I can because in these conditions it is the set batsmen who can do the most damage," said Rahul.

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner Rohit Sharma, who is in the form of his life.

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner Rohit Sharma, who is in the form of his life. Rohit produced another sublime innings to notch his fourth hundred of the tournament as India booked their semi-final place with a 28-run win over Bangladesh at Edgbaston on Tuesday. The right-hander became only the second batsman, after Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, to score four tons at a single World Cup, prompting captain Virat Kohli to dub him the world's leading one-day player. Rahul, who moved up the order in the absence of injured Shikhar Dhawan, admitted his transition has been easier as Rohit continues to find boundaries at will, easing the pressure in the opening powerplay. "You would be a fool to be tempted to bat like Rohit because he is in a different class," Rahul told reporters. "He is from a different planet altogether when he gets going.'' "To bat with him is really easy because he takes the pressure off you. He keeps getting the boundaries and the scoreboard keeps ticking, I just have to keep there with him. It is great fun," he added. Rahul, whose 77 against Bangladesh was his highest score of the World Cup, said he was pleased with his steady progress at the top of the order and feels a big score is around the corner. "Personally, I feel I have been going well, but am not fully satisfied as I haven't carried on after some of the starts," he added. "When I say 'convert' I mean getting to say 35 or 45 overs as often as I can because in these conditions it is the set batsmen who can do the most damage," said Rahul.

World Cup: Rohit Sharma's batting on a different planet, says KL Rahul

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right.

Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set.

"It's a bit disappointing," the talented Karnataka batsman said, accepting that he should have gone on to score a few more runs.&nbsp;

"I am doing the hard work in getting through the first 10 or 15 overs, or as an opening batsman, scoring the first 25, 30 runs, which is the hardest. (But then getting out) when the time comes to accelerate and may take the game deeper, so a bit disappointed that I have not been able to do that," Rahul lamented.

He will certainly assess and do the course correction but he does not want to brood over what has already done.

"But again I can sit, I will sit and assess, but it won't worry me that much because there are a lot of things I'm doing right, and I know that the mistakes I've made I can learn from them and get better," Rahul said at the post-match press conference after India beat the West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday.

He got out playing a reverse sweep to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi against Afganistan and versus West Indies, it was a pitched up delivery from Jason Holder that brought about his downfall.

"Against Afghanistan, I would not say it (reverse sweep) was a bad shot. It was a shot I play all the time. And more often than not I hit it for four, so I get it away. But unfortunately, I did not execute it," Rahul said.

"But the planning and the timing of that shot may be was questionable because I needed to stitch up a partnership with Virat," he admitted.

"And today (vs WI), as a batsman, it disappoints you but then again you know bowlers are allowed to bowl good balls. And you do make mistakes. And I can't sit back and break my head about it. I just go on and try to start fresh in Birmingham and try to get a big one."&nbsp;

He was always "ready" to juggle up and down the order, and Shikhar Dhawan's untimely injury did not change much for him.

"I know that Shikhar getting injured was unfortunate. And I had to go to the top of the order. But not that I never prepared for opening the batting. In my head, the last one or two years I have been preparing for whatever might be my role," the 27-year-old right-handed batsman said.

In fact, he is more comfortable opening the batting as that has been his natural slot in all forms of cricket.

"I had to prepare hard for number four because that's not where I batted all my life. I did that. And now to come back to opening the batting again, it's just a bit more comfortable and easier for me because I've batted it all my life," Rahul said. On India's not so impressive batting show in the past two games, Rahul said that both wickets weren't easy for scoring runs.

In fact, he revealed that when he and Rohit were batting, they had sent a message to the dressing room that the wicket was two paced and 260 was a par-score.

Ask about Virat Kohli once again looking like a different player compared to all others who struggled, Rahul said it's his special ability to get runs irrespective of the conditions.

"I don't think he's doing anything different. He has been doing the same thing for how long I can remember since the time he started playing cricket, this is what he has been doing, performing consistently," he observed.

"And no matter what condition, what wicket condition, who the bowlers are, he always finds a way to get runs, always finds a way to put the bowlers under pressure."&nbsp;

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right. Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set.

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right. Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set. "It's a bit disappointing," the talented Karnataka batsman said, accepting that he should have gone on to score a few more runs. "I am doing the hard work in getting through the first 10 or 15 overs, or as an opening batsman, scoring the first 25, 30 runs, which is the hardest. (But then getting out) when the time comes to accelerate and may take the game deeper, so a bit disappointed that I have not been able to do that," Rahul lamented. He will certainly assess and do the course correction but he does not want to brood over what has already done. "But again I can sit, I will sit and assess, but it won't worry me that much because there are a lot of things I'm doing right, and I know that the mistakes I've made I can learn from them and get better," Rahul said at the post-match press conference after India beat the West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday. He got out playing a reverse sweep to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi against Afganistan and versus West Indies, it was a pitched up delivery from Jason Holder that brought about his downfall. "Against Afghanistan, I would not say it (reverse sweep) was a bad shot. It was a shot I play all the time. And more often than not I hit it for four, so I get it away. But unfortunately, I did not execute it," Rahul said. "But the planning and the timing of that shot may be was questionable because I needed to stitch up a partnership with Virat," he admitted. "And today (vs WI), as a batsman, it disappoints you but then again you know bowlers are allowed to bowl good balls. And you do make mistakes. And I can't sit back and break my head about it. I just go on and try to start fresh in Birmingham and try to get a big one." He was always "ready" to juggle up and down the order, and Shikhar Dhawan's untimely injury did not change much for him. "I know that Shikhar getting injured was unfortunate. And I had to go to the top of the order. But not that I never prepared for opening the batting. In my head, the last one or two years I have been preparing for whatever might be my role," the 27-year-old right-handed batsman said. In fact, he is more comfortable opening the batting as that has been his natural slot in all forms of cricket. "I had to prepare hard for number four because that's not where I batted all my life. I did that. And now to come back to opening the batting again, it's just a bit more comfortable and easier for me because I've batted it all my life," Rahul said. On India's not so impressive batting show in the past two games, Rahul said that both wickets weren't easy for scoring runs. In fact, he revealed that when he and Rohit were batting, they had sent a message to the dressing room that the wicket was two paced and 260 was a par-score. Ask about Virat Kohli once again looking like a different player compared to all others who struggled, Rahul said it's his special ability to get runs irrespective of the conditions. "I don't think he's doing anything different. He has been doing the same thing for how long I can remember since the time he started playing cricket, this is what he has been doing, performing consistently," he observed. "And no matter what condition, what wicket condition, who the bowlers are, he always finds a way to get runs, always finds a way to put the bowlers under pressure."

'I will sit and assess,' says India's KL Rahul on his slow conversion rate

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right.

Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set.

"It's a bit disappointing," the talented Karnataka batsman said, accepting that he should have gone on to score a few more runs.&nbsp;I am doing the hard work in getting through the first 10 or 15 overs, or as an opening batsmen, scoring the first 25, 30 runs, which is the hardest. (But then getting out) when the time comes to accelerate and maybe take the game deeper, so a bit disappointed that I have not been able to do that," Rahul lamented.

He will certainly assess and do the course correction but he does not want to brood over what has already done.

"But again I can sit, I will sit and assess, but it won't worry me that much because there are a lot of things I'm doing right, and I know that the mistakes I've made I can learn from them and get better," Rahul said at the post-match press conference after India beat the West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday.

He got out playing a reverse sweep to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi against Afganistan and versus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-is-legend-of-the-game-we-always-back-him-says-indian-skipper-virat-kohli-231009">West Indies</a>, it was a pitched up delivery from Jason Holder that brought about his downfall.

"Against Afghanistan, I would not say it (reverse sweep) was a bad shot. It was a shot I play all the time. And more often than not I hit it for four, so I get it away. But unfortunately, I did not execute it," Rahul said.

"But the planning and the timing of that shot maybe was questionable because I needed to stitch up a partnership with Virat," he admitted.

"And today (vs <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-crush-west-indies-by-125-runs-230985">West Indies</a>), as a batsman, it disappoints you but then again you know bowlers are allowed to bowl good balls. And you do make mistakes. And I can't sit back and break my head about it. I just go on and try to start fresh in Birmingham and try to get a big one," Rahul said.&nbsp;

He was always "ready" to juggle up and down the order, and Shikhar Dhawan's untimely injury did not change much for him.

"I know that Shikhar getting injured was unfortunate. And I had to go to the top of the order. But not that I never prepared for opening the batting. In my head, the last one or two years I have been preparing for whatever might be my role," the 27-year-old right-handed batsman said.

In fact, he is more comfortable opening the batting as that has been his natural slot in all forms of cricket.

"I had to prepare hard for number four because that's not where I batted all my life. I did that. And now to come back to open the batting again, it's just a bit more comfortable and easier for me because I've batted it all my life," Rahul said.

On India's not so impressive batting show in the past two games, Rahul said that both wickets weren't easy for scoring runs.

In fact, he revealed that when he and Rohit were batting, they had sent a message to the dressing room that the wicket was two-paced and 260 was a par-score.

Asked about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-team-india-currently-only-unbeaten-team-in-cricket-world-cup-2019-230997">Virat Kohli</a> once again looking like a different player compared to all others who struggled, Rahul said it's his special ability to get runs irrespective of the conditions.

"I don't think he's doing anything different. He has been doing the same thing for how long I can remember since the time he started playing cricket, this is what he has been doing, performing consistently," he observed.

"And no matter what condition, what wicket condition, who the bowlers are, he always finds a way to get runs, always finds a way to put the bowlers under pressure," Rahul added.

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right. Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set. "It's a bit disappointing," the talented Karnataka batsman said, accepting that he should have gone on to score a few more runs. I am doing the hard work in getting through the first 10 or 15 overs, or as an opening batsmen, scoring the first 25, 30 runs, which is the hardest. (But then getting out) when the time comes to accelerate and maybe take the game deeper, so a bit disappointed that I have not been able to do that," Rahul lamented. He will certainly assess and do the course correction but he does not want to brood over what has already done. "But again I can sit, I will sit and assess, but it won't worry me that much because there are a lot of things I'm doing right, and I know that the mistakes I've made I can learn from them and get better," Rahul said at the post-match press conference after India beat the West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday. He got out playing a reverse sweep to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi against Afganistan and versus West Indies, it was a pitched up delivery from Jason Holder that brought about his downfall. "Against Afghanistan, I would not say it (reverse sweep) was a bad shot. It was a shot I play all the time. And more often than not I hit it for four, so I get it away. But unfortunately, I did not execute it," Rahul said. "But the planning and the timing of that shot maybe was questionable because I needed to stitch up a partnership with Virat," he admitted. "And today (vs West Indies), as a batsman, it disappoints you but then again you know bowlers are allowed to bowl good balls. And you do make mistakes. And I can't sit back and break my head about it. I just go on and try to start fresh in Birmingham and try to get a big one," Rahul said. He was always "ready" to juggle up and down the order, and Shikhar Dhawan's untimely injury did not change much for him. "I know that Shikhar getting injured was unfortunate. And I had to go to the top of the order. But not that I never prepared for opening the batting. In my head, the last one or two years I have been preparing for whatever might be my role," the 27-year-old right-handed batsman said. In fact, he is more comfortable opening the batting as that has been his natural slot in all forms of cricket. "I had to prepare hard for number four because that's not where I batted all my life. I did that. And now to come back to open the batting again, it's just a bit more comfortable and easier for me because I've batted it all my life," Rahul said. On India's not so impressive batting show in the past two games, Rahul said that both wickets weren't easy for scoring runs. In fact, he revealed that when he and Rohit were batting, they had sent a message to the dressing room that the wicket was two-paced and 260 was a par-score. Asked about Virat Kohli once again looking like a different player compared to all others who struggled, Rahul said it's his special ability to get runs irrespective of the conditions. "I don't think he's doing anything different. He has been doing the same thing for how long I can remember since the time he started playing cricket, this is what he has been doing, performing consistently," he observed. "And no matter what condition, what wicket condition, who the bowlers are, he always finds a way to get runs, always finds a way to put the bowlers under pressure," Rahul added.

World Cup: Disappointed on my conversion rate, says India's KL Rahul after West Indies win

Indian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> said that the game of cricket has the potential to make a difference in children's lives as it improves the players as a human being.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli along with teammates KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant enjoyed some quality time playing cricket with school children at the Rose Bowl Stadium on Thursday.&nbsp;

The cricket clinic for school kids has been arranged on a regular basis by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is underway. &nbsp;

"I believe cricket can really make a difference to children's lives. It really improves you as a human being because it makes you go through phases which are very similar to life," Kohli said in a video posted by the official website of the Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

"You understand downfalls; you understand good phases and how to come back from difficult times. So, I think cricket is really a great teacher in many ways," he added.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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🏏 "I believe that cricket can really make a difference to children's lives" 
 
Virat Kohli bats for Cricket4Good. Watch here ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/cu3uY31RAt">pic.twitter.com/cu3uY31RAt</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1141926400812814336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India are at fourth position in the 10-team points table and preparing to face Afghanistan on Saturday.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Spending time with kids is an absolute joy and an opportunity to contribute to their journey in some way. Such honesty and commitment in whatever kids do. So much to learn as well and the biggest learning is to Never forget the joy of playing this great game. 😇😇 <a href="https://t.co/7cHBCb9Arn">pic.twitter.com/7cHBCb9Arn</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1141701678015508481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Spending time with kids is an absolute joy and an opportunity to contribute to their journey in some way. Such honesty and commitment in whatever kids do. So much to learn as well and the biggest learning is to never forget the joy of playing this great game," Kohli tweeted.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said that the game of cricket has the potential to make a difference in children's lives as it improves the players as a human being. Virat Kohli along with teammates KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant enjoyed some quality time playing cricket with school children at the Rose Bowl Stadium on Thursday.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said that the game of cricket has the potential to make a difference in children's lives as it improves the players as a human being. Virat Kohli along with teammates KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant enjoyed some quality time playing cricket with school children at the Rose Bowl Stadium on Thursday. The cricket clinic for school kids has been arranged on a regular basis by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is underway. "I believe cricket can really make a difference to children's lives. It really improves you as a human being because it makes you go through phases which are very similar to life," Kohli said in a video posted by the official website of the Cricket World Cup. "You understand downfalls; you understand good phases and how to come back from difficult times. So, I think cricket is really a great teacher in many ways," he added. Watch the video: 🏏 "I believe that cricket can really make a difference to children's lives" Virat Kohli bats for Cricket4Good. Watch here ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/cu3uY31RAt — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 21, 2019 × India are at fourth position in the 10-team points table and preparing to face Afghanistan on Saturday. Spending time with kids is an absolute joy and an opportunity to contribute to their journey in some way. Such honesty and commitment in whatever kids do. So much to learn as well and the biggest learning is to Never forget the joy of playing this great game. 😇😇 pic.twitter.com/7cHBCb9Arn — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 20, 2019 × "Spending time with kids is an absolute joy and an opportunity to contribute to their journey in some way. Such honesty and commitment in whatever kids do. So much to learn as well and the biggest learning is to never forget the joy of playing this great game," Kohli tweeted.

'Cricket improves you as a human being,' says Indian skipper Virat Kohli

Fitness takes centre stage as Virat, Dhoni, Shami lead India's World Cup campaign

As he looks forward to playing Kapil Dev in `83`, actor and cricket buff Ranveer Singh made his commentary debut alongside former ace cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag for ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.

As he looks forward to playing Kapil Dev in `83`, actor and cricket buff Ranveer Singh made his commentary debut alongside former ace cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag for ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. Prior to the India-Pakistan match on Sunday, the actor turned into a commentator and talked about the weather conditions and the vibe of the crowd in Manchester. And now going on a picture sharing spree, Ranveer posted images of his meet and greet session with the players on Instagram. Congratulating team India and the captain on the big victory, the actor posted a picture of him with Virat Kohli and wrote."I`ve been a die-hard fan of Indian cricket since childhood. Invested so much emotion into our beloved team. Willing and wanting them to be the undisputed best in the world." Calling captain Kohli a 'rare brand of ferocity and passion, he continued', "And then, there was VIRAT KOHLI. Ive witnessed a brash boy evolve into the very embodiment of class. Displaying a rare brand of ferocity and passionate expression, he changed the face of Indian cricket forever." "He`s well on his way to being hailed as the greatest of all time. Leading our country like a true alpha warrior. Yeh naya India hai, aur yeh banda naye India ka Hero hai. We are proud of you, Kaptaan.," Ranveer said. View this post on Instagram Ive been a die-hard fan of Indian cricket since childhood. Invested so much emotion into our beloved team. Willing and wanting them to be the undisputed best in the world. And then, there was VIRAT KOHLI. Ive witnessed a brash boy evolve into the very embodiment of class. Displaying a rare brand of ferocity and passionate expression, he changed the face of Indian cricket forever. He’s well on his way to being hailed as the greatest of all time. Leading our country like a true alpha warrior. Yeh naya India hai, aur yeh banda naye India ka Hero hai. We are proud of you, Kaptaan. 🇮🇳 @virat.kohli A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Jun 17, 2019 at 2:23pm PDT × He also kept batsman KL Rahul in the loop and a picture of the two as they posed for a selfie."BIGGG DAWGGG!!! BOHT HARDDD!!! KL Rahul. That`s how you step up and make a statement!(dat Technique doe ufffff)," Ranveer captioned. View this post on Instagram BIGGG DAWGGG!!! BOHT HARDDD!!! @rahulkl 🏏💥💥💥 That’s how you step up and make a statement!☝🏾 (dat Technique doe 🥶🥶🥶 ufffff) A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Jun 17, 2019 at 1:22pm PDT × While he congratulated the players who performed on the field on Sunday, Ranveer didn`t leave behind the former `Men in Blue`. The `Lootera` actor posted an image of him striking a pose with the `Master Blaster` Sachin Tendulkar. View this post on Instagram MASTER BLASTER !!! 🏏🌟@sachintendulkar 😍❤️🙏🏽 A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Jun 17, 2019 at 12:59pm PDT × He dedicated another post to the `most destructive batsman`, Virendra Sehwag View this post on Instagram Arguably the most destructive batsman the world has ever seen! 🏏💥 VIRU PAAJI DA JAVAAB NAHI! 🌟@virendersehwag A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) on Jun 17, 2019 at 12:12pm PDT × Ranveer flooded his Instagram with scores of pictures from Old Trafford. Other notable cricketers the actor shared pictures with were Brian Lara, Saurav Ganguly, Harbhajan Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, and Hardik Pandya. Prepping for his upcoming film `83` based on the life of the legendary cricketer Kapil Dev, Ranveer is leaving no stone unturned. Kapil captained the Indian cricket team in when they lifted the World Cup in 1983. Kabir Khan`s directorial will hit the theatres on April 10, 2020.

Post India-Pak clash, Ranveer Singh goes on picture-sharing spree

Communication had been the biggest USP in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-by-89-runs-at-world-cup-227784">Rohit Sharma</a> and Shikhar Dhawan's enormously successful opening partnership and the Indian vice-captain wants to create the same level of understanding with KL Rahul by the time World Cup reaches the business end.

Dhawan's fractured left-hand has put Rahul in the line of fire in a stage like World Cup but his senior opening partner is confident that they will slowly be able to build up the right level of communication required in such big event.

In fact against Pakistan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-six-symbol-rohit-sharma-hits-most-sixes-beats-dhonis-record-227634">Rohit </a>allowed Rahul to take the first strike, which he normally does when Dhawan is around.

"Yeah, KL also likes to take the strike, and for me, it was important to give him that because just like me, he also has the mindset of taking the first ball. That is his comfort. He is playing his first game as an opener here, so I wanted to make sure that he's comfortable," Rohit said while making it clear what his responsibilities are as a senior player.

Rahul, on his part, knows what a big opportunity it is and he is ready to fill in the big boots of Dhawan till the time he comes back (if at all in this tournament).

"Obviously Shikhar and Rohit for the last three or four years have been such a dangerous combination having done so well. They have owned those positions. I had to wait for my chance and I am just happy that I got to bat in the top of the order," Rahul told reporters in the mixed zone.

However, during their stand of 136, there were a couple of occasions when Rohit could have nearly got run out primarily because of the lack of communication between the two.

But the champion opener is game for this new challenge as that's what international cricket is all about,&nbsp;clearing new obstacles every passing day.

"These are the sort of challenges you face - the understanding of when he wants to run that two when I want to take that single, and things like that. These are very small little things, but of course, eventually, they add up to a whole lot for the team because at that point we never wanted to get run out. That was the last thing in our mind to do that," said Rohit.

But since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/milestone-men-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-ensure-indias-maiden-century-partnership-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-227611">they batted for nearly 24 overs</a> (23.5 to be precise), they had communicated a lot and it's only going to improve from here on, feels Rohit.

"But we had a lot of communication (during the game against Pakistan) while we were batting, so slowly we will build on it. Now that I know he's going to open for the next few games as well,'' Rohit said.

"So that conversation between us is really, really important, and I hope that continues because it's going to only help both of us," Rohit added.

For Rahul, the biggest challenge against Pakistan was to play out Mohammed Amir's first spell, which they did with a fair degree of success.

"Look I mean, with the new ball against any bowler, you have to see off the first few overs and didn't know what to expect from the wicket as it was under covers for the first two days. It was important that we saw off the first spell," the talented Karnataka batsman said.

Amir, whether it was Champions Trophy final in 2017 or the Asia Cup T20, a year before that, he had always struck in the very first over that he bowled but this time around the Indians had done their homework.&nbsp;

"We needed to focus from ball one as he has earlier done damage in the first over itself. We were switched on from ball one and we didn't take too many chances in the first few overs. We gave their bowlers and the ball the respect it deserved and carried on from there," Rahul said.

Communication had been the biggest USP in Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan's enormously successful opening partnership and the Indian vice-captain wants to create the same level of understanding with KL Rahul by the time World Cup reaches the business end.

Communication had been the biggest USP in Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan's enormously successful opening partnership and the Indian vice-captain wants to create the same level of understanding with KL Rahul by the time World Cup reaches the business end. Dhawan's fractured left-hand has put Rahul in the line of fire in a stage like World Cup but his senior opening partner is confident that they will slowly be able to build up the right level of communication required in such big event. In fact against Pakistan, Rohit allowed Rahul to take the first strike, which he normally does when Dhawan is around. "Yeah, KL also likes to take the strike, and for me, it was important to give him that because just like me, he also has the mindset of taking the first ball. That is his comfort. He is playing his first game as an opener here, so I wanted to make sure that he's comfortable," Rohit said while making it clear what his responsibilities are as a senior player. Rahul, on his part, knows what a big opportunity it is and he is ready to fill in the big boots of Dhawan till the time he comes back (if at all in this tournament). "Obviously Shikhar and Rohit for the last three or four years have been such a dangerous combination having done so well. They have owned those positions. I had to wait for my chance and I am just happy that I got to bat in the top of the order," Rahul told reporters in the mixed zone. However, during their stand of 136, there were a couple of occasions when Rohit could have nearly got run out primarily because of the lack of communication between the two. But the champion opener is game for this new challenge as that's what international cricket is all about, clearing new obstacles every passing day. "These are the sort of challenges you face - the understanding of when he wants to run that two when I want to take that single, and things like that. These are very small little things, but of course, eventually, they add up to a whole lot for the team because at that point we never wanted to get run out. That was the last thing in our mind to do that," said Rohit. But since they batted for nearly 24 overs (23.5 to be precise), they had communicated a lot and it's only going to improve from here on, feels Rohit. "But we had a lot of communication (during the game against Pakistan) while we were batting, so slowly we will build on it. Now that I know he's going to open for the next few games as well,'' Rohit said. "So that conversation between us is really, really important, and I hope that continues because it's going to only help both of us," Rohit added. For Rahul, the biggest challenge against Pakistan was to play out Mohammed Amir's first spell, which they did with a fair degree of success. "Look I mean, with the new ball against any bowler, you have to see off the first few overs and didn't know what to expect from the wicket as it was under covers for the first two days. It was important that we saw off the first spell," the talented Karnataka batsman said. Amir, whether it was Champions Trophy final in 2017 or the Asia Cup T20, a year before that, he had always struck in the very first over that he bowled but this time around the Indians had done their homework. "We needed to focus from ball one as he has earlier done damage in the first over itself. We were switched on from ball one and we didn't take too many chances in the first few overs. We gave their bowlers and the ball the respect it deserved and carried on from there," Rahul said.

Rohit Sharma wants to create same level of understanding with KL Rahul, as he has with Shikhar Dhawan

Major takeaways from India's historic win over Pakistan in World Cup

Virat Kohli walked after Mohammad Amir appealed for caught behind but television cameras later showed that the Indian captain wasn't out as the ball which went over his helmet had missed the willow by a distance.

As Virat himself saw the footage being played on the big screen at Manchester, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-22-india-vs-pakistan-227539">the Indian captain looked bemused</a> but a&nbsp;few minutes later was seen losing his temper in the players dressing room. Virat who is not known as a "walker" perhaps missed a trick in the heat of the moment just after he came out to bat after the rain interruption.

The Indian captain had scored 77 runs in just 65 balls studded with seven boundaries but looked good for more when Amir bounced him to claim his wicket as Pakistan skipper Safaraz Ahmed took the "catch".

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BREAKING: <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> finally encounters someone who can get him out - himself. <a href="https://t.co/TXFFE3sVJC">pic.twitter.com/TXFFE3sVJC</a>
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1140257524031135744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Indian opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-six-symbol-rohit-sharma-hits-most-sixes-beats-dhonis-record-227634">Rohit Sharma hit a superlative century</a>(140) studded with 14 boundaries and three sixes in 113 balls as Indian batsmen rattled the Pakistani pace attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/milestone-men-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-ensure-indias-maiden-century-partnership-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-227611">Rohit and KL Rahul, who hit 57 in 78 balls </a>with three boundaries and two sixes, brought up a century stand to peg back Pakistan who won the toss and put India into bat.

Rahul finally fell with India on 136 but Rohit and Virat came together to keep the momentum as the two stitched a 98-run partnership. Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya played a cameo(26) in 19 balls with two boundaries and a six as the Indian batsmen made merry at Manchester.

India finally finished their innings at 336/7 in 50 overs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Virat Kohli walked after Mohammad Amir appealed for caught behind but television cameras later showed that the Indian captain wasn't out as the ball which went over his helmet had missed the willow by a distance.

Virat Kohli walked after Mohammad Amir appealed for caught behind but television cameras later showed that the Indian captain wasn't out as the ball which went over his helmet had missed the willow by a distance. As Virat himself saw the footage being played on the big screen at Manchester, the Indian captain looked bemused but a few minutes later was seen losing his temper in the players dressing room. Virat who is not known as a "walker" perhaps missed a trick in the heat of the moment just after he came out to bat after the rain interruption. The Indian captain had scored 77 runs in just 65 balls studded with seven boundaries but looked good for more when Amir bounced him to claim his wicket as Pakistan skipper Safaraz Ahmed took the "catch". BREAKING: @imVkohli finally encounters someone who can get him out - himself. pic.twitter.com/TXFFE3sVJC — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) June 16, 2019 × Earlier, Indian opener Rohit Sharma hit a superlative century(140) studded with 14 boundaries and three sixes in 113 balls as Indian batsmen rattled the Pakistani pace attack. Rohit and KL Rahul, who hit 57 in 78 balls with three boundaries and two sixes, brought up a century stand to peg back Pakistan who won the toss and put India into bat. Rahul finally fell with India on 136 but Rohit and Virat came together to keep the momentum as the two stitched a 98-run partnership. Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya played a cameo(26) in 19 balls with two boundaries and a six as the Indian batsmen made merry at Manchester. India finally finished their innings at 336/7 in 50 overs.

World Cup: Virat Kohli out? TV cameras show Indian captain 'walked' as Pak captain Sarfaraz claimed 'catch'

Best moments from India's innings against Pakistan in World Cup match

World Cup: India's new master blaster Rohit Sharma beats Dhoni, Tendulkar as records tumble

As KL Rahul stole a run from Shadab Khan's third ball in the eighteenth over, India completed a historic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">milestone against Pakistan</a> in the World Cup as the two openers hit a century stand for the first time against their arch rival.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-22-india-vs-pakistan-227539">Follow:&nbsp;Live -&nbsp;INDvPAK</a>

Even though Rahul was caught off a Riaz ball in the 24th over, he&nbsp;had done his job giving India a thumping opening stand of 136 runs scoring 57(3 fours and 2 sixes) in 78 balls.

Rohit Sharma at the other end was motoring along as the partnership grew, India brought up their first fifty in just 9.6 overs with Rahul contributing 14 and Rohit hitting 37. India brought up their century stand in the 18th over with Rohit Sharma contributing the lion's share scoring 60 and Rahul hitting 37.

Rahul brought up his half-century in just 69 balls, however as he was looking good, he fell to Shadab's delivery hitting a well-pitched ball to covers which landed straight in Babar Azam's hands.

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/win-toss-and-bat-first-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-suggests-to-sarfaraz-227545">Pakistan won the toss</a> and chose to field&nbsp;in overcast conditions.

As KL Rahul stole a run from Shadab Khan's third ball in the eighteenth over, India completed a historic milestone against Pakistan in the World Cup as the two openers hit a century stand for the first time against their arch rival.

As KL Rahul stole a run from Shadab Khan's third ball in the eighteenth over, India completed a historic milestone against Pakistan in the World Cup as the two openers hit a century stand for the first time against their arch rival. Follow: Live - INDvPAK Even though Rahul was caught off a Riaz ball in the 24th over, he had done his job giving India a thumping opening stand of 136 runs scoring 57(3 fours and 2 sixes) in 78 balls. Rohit Sharma at the other end was motoring along as the partnership grew, India brought up their first fifty in just 9.6 overs with Rahul contributing 14 and Rohit hitting 37. India brought up their century stand in the 18th over with Rohit Sharma contributing the lion's share scoring 60 and Rahul hitting 37. Rahul brought up his half-century in just 69 balls, however as he was looking good, he fell to Shadab's delivery hitting a well-pitched ball to covers which landed straight in Babar Azam's hands. Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and chose to field in overcast conditions.

Milestone men: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul ensure India's maiden century partnership against Pakistan in World Cup

World Cup: Indian team attends practice session ahead of crucial Pakistan clash

Key battles in India vs Australia Cricket World Cup clash

Major takeaways from India's win over South Africa in World Cup 2019

World Cup: Indian team attends practice session ahead of South Africa challenge

Ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup campaign</a> opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised&nbsp;throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

The head coach Ravi Shastri gave tips to the players and he was present during the practice sessions&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Rose Bowl stadium in Southampton.&nbsp;

India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

This was the team's second practice session and it lasted for more than three hours.&nbsp;

Apart from enhancing fielding skills, openers&nbsp;Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan spent time batting in the nets along with KL Rahul, who is almost final to play for India at the number four spot.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya was seen stretching his back due to some issue but later bowled in the nets.

Watch the video:

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Pace and spin in tandem in the nets 💪💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/UUKTPwvV7H">pic.twitter.com/UUKTPwvV7H</a>
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Caption this? 📸📸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/1anayWs7Gh">pic.twitter.com/1anayWs7Gh</a>
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Also, Kuldeep Yadav also looked in good shape after he missed the first practice session and bowled to Dhoni in the nets.

Ahead of their World Cup campaign opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni.

Ahead of their World Cup campaign opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni. The head coach Ravi Shastri gave tips to the players and he was present during the practice sessions at the Rose Bowl stadium in Southampton. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. This was the team's second practice session and it lasted for more than three hours. Apart from enhancing fielding skills, openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan spent time batting in the nets along with KL Rahul, who is almost final to play for India at the number four spot. Hardik Pandya was seen stretching his back due to some issue but later bowled in the nets. Watch the video: Pace and spin in tandem in the nets 💪💪#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/UUKTPwvV7H — BCCI (@BCCI) June 1, 2019 × Caption this? 📸📸#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/1anayWs7Gh — BCCI (@BCCI) June 1, 2019 × Also, Kuldeep Yadav also looked in good shape after he missed the first practice session and bowled to Dhoni in the nets.

Watch: Indian team practice ahead of their campaign opener

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff.

Indian skipper <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammad-saifuddin-dismisses-virat-kohli-with-a-stunning-yorker-in-warm-up-match-222319&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjB9arZ_7_iAhWg73MBHaTtBg8QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vcvyZuVlyuGvxono7scX6">Virat Kohli</a> scored 47 off 46 balls with five boundaries before Rahul and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZgbuw_7_iAhVGOSsKHQ9sChYQFjAFegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QLJj6_Zf7KWeSM3YKt_o7">Dhoni </a>added 164 runs in a fifth-wicket stand.

The partnership came to an end with the dismissal of Rahul, who finished with 108 off 99 balls with 12 fours and four sixes.

Rahul made the squad as a back-up opener but he is also competing for the number four spot alongside all-rounder Vijay Shankar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik.

"The biggest positive from today was the way KL batted at number four. He is such a class player,"&nbsp;Kohli said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-says-ms-dhoni-best-suited-at-no-5-for-india-at-the-icc-cricket-world-cup-220855&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZgbuw_7_iAhVGOSsKHQ9sChYQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3dH6cn6nWXT8DNcdAxm6PV">Former captain Dhoni</a> reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya made a 21-run cameo to take the total to 359-7.

Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar made a steady start to the run chase before they were rattled by Jasprit Bumrah's double strike in the 10th over.

Sarkar was caught behind for 25 and Shakib perished to a perfect yorker for a first-ball duck.

Das (73) and Mushfiqur Rahim (90) offered some resistance with a 120-run partnership for the third wicket but they failed to step up the scoring rate against India's wrist spinning duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the middle overs.

Das was dismissed by Chahal in the 32nd over, triggering a batting collapse as Bangladesh went from 169-2 to 216-8.

Both Chahal and Yadav finished with three wickets each as Bangladesh were bowled out for 264.

Kohli was pleased with his bowling unit ahead of their tournament opener against South Africa on June 5.

"Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," he said.

"In the second half (in the coming matches), the ball might turn a little bit but initially the ball will swing and seam, which will be the most important phase," Kohli said.

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359. Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff. Indian skipper Virat Kohli scored 47 off 46 balls with five boundaries before Rahul and Dhoni added 164 runs in a fifth-wicket stand. The partnership came to an end with the dismissal of Rahul, who finished with 108 off 99 balls with 12 fours and four sixes. Rahul made the squad as a back-up opener but he is also competing for the number four spot alongside all-rounder Vijay Shankar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik. "The biggest positive from today was the way KL batted at number four. He is such a class player," Kohli said. Former captain Dhoni reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over. All-rounder Hardik Pandya made a 21-run cameo to take the total to 359-7. Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar made a steady start to the run chase before they were rattled by Jasprit Bumrah's double strike in the 10th over. Sarkar was caught behind for 25 and Shakib perished to a perfect yorker for a first-ball duck. Das (73) and Mushfiqur Rahim (90) offered some resistance with a 120-run partnership for the third wicket but they failed to step up the scoring rate against India's wrist spinning duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the middle overs. Das was dismissed by Chahal in the 32nd over, triggering a batting collapse as Bangladesh went from 169-2 to 216-8. Both Chahal and Yadav finished with three wickets each as Bangladesh were bowled out for 264. Kohli was pleased with his bowling unit ahead of their tournament opener against South Africa on June 5. "Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," he said. "In the second half (in the coming matches), the ball might turn a little bit but initially the ball will swing and seam, which will be the most important phase," Kohli said.

MS Dhoni, KL Rahul hit tons as India beat Bangladesh in World Cup warm-up

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">KL Rahul's century</a> in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere.

Two-time champions India continue to fret over the problematic batting position after a number of candidates failed their auditions in the buildup to the World Cup.

Chief selector MSK Prasad had made it clear that all-rounder Vijay Shankar was the first choice for the spot while Rahul, generally an opening batsman, was another option.

Batting at number four, Rahul managed only six in Saturday's warm-up match against New Zealand but followed it up with 108 off 99 balls in their 95-run victory in Cardiff.

Rahul's assured innings, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes, seems to have sealed the deal with Indian captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammad-saifuddin-dismisses-virat-kohli-with-a-stunning-yorker-in-warm-up-match-222319">Virat Kohli</a> saying his contribution was the "biggest positive" from the game.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3b2740-508d-4294-9381-5e07fe915b6f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_3.jpg" />
"I'm really happy with how I've bounced back and this gives me lots of confidence," Rahul told reporters after the game.

"Where I play is not for me to decide. It's a team game and you need to be flexible. You need to be ready to bat, whatever role you are given, you have to take what is thrown at you," Rahul said.

Rahul built a 164-run partnership for the fifth wicket with wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a century of his own, to give India a commanding total of 359.

"(Dhoni) just dominated the spinners and is striking the ball so well. It's a great sign for us and it's just a pleasure to watch him from the other end when he is playing like that," Rahul added.

India begin their quest for a third World Cup title on June 5 when they take on South Africa at The Rose Bowl. 
&nbsp;

KL Rahul's century in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere.

KL Rahul's century in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere. Two-time champions India continue to fret over the problematic batting position after a number of candidates failed their auditions in the buildup to the World Cup. Chief selector MSK Prasad had made it clear that all-rounder Vijay Shankar was the first choice for the spot while Rahul, generally an opening batsman, was another option. Batting at number four, Rahul managed only six in Saturday's warm-up match against New Zealand but followed it up with 108 off 99 balls in their 95-run victory in Cardiff. Rahul's assured innings, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes, seems to have sealed the deal with Indian captain Virat Kohli saying his contribution was the "biggest positive" from the game. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "I'm really happy with how I've bounced back and this gives me lots of confidence," Rahul told reporters after the game. "Where I play is not for me to decide. It's a team game and you need to be flexible. You need to be ready to bat, whatever role you are given, you have to take what is thrown at you," Rahul said. Rahul built a 164-run partnership for the fifth wicket with wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a century of his own, to give India a commanding total of 359. "(Dhoni) just dominated the spinners and is striking the ball so well. It's a great sign for us and it's just a pleasure to watch him from the other end when he is playing like that," Rahul added. India begin their quest for a third World Cup title on June 5 when they take on South Africa at The Rose Bowl.

KL Rahul answers India's number four conundrum for World Cup with Cardiff ton

KL Rahul knows exactly what it would mean to win this year's&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in England, having seen for himself what a 2011 triumph on home soil meant to his fellow Indians.

Eight years ago, Rahul was a teenager watching television in a Bangalore bar as Gautam Gambhir's 97 and then-captain MS Dhoni's 91 not out saw India beat Sri Lanka in the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final in Mumbai. &nbsp;

"When the game was over it was absolute chaos. The roads were blocked, everybody left their homes and was on the road celebrating," Rahul said Friday as he recalled the aftermath of India's second&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;triumph.

"It was an unbelievable experience to see so many people forgetting about their worries. Whatever they had going on in their lives, they were just so, so happy India had won the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup.

"It was even bigger because we won it at home in India -- it brought billions of people together and brought so much joy."

Rahul was already a first-class cricketer but said watching the match made him want to focus more.

"I knew what a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;could do to the country, how big it is and how valuable it is to be part of a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;dream," he said.

"To be here after eight years representing my country means the&nbsp;world&nbsp;to me. I'm looking forward to hopefully inspiring billions of people again and to win the&nbsp;WorldCup&nbsp;would be the icing on the cake."

Now the 27-year-old Rahul finds himself in the same side as Dhoni and fellow 2011 winner Virat Kohli, the star batsman who has succeeded the wicket-keeper as India captain.

And he said the current side had the talent to equal the achievement of Kapil Dev's celebrated team in 1983 by winning a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in England.

"To be part of this team is incredible,” Rahul said. "It's not just MS and Virat, there are so many other talented individuals -- Rohit (Sharma) and Shikhar (Dhawan) and Jasprit (Bumrah), who is the most feared bowler in&nbsp;world&nbsp;cricket right now.

"Hopefully the hard work we have put in over the past two or three years means we can go out there, enjoy ourselves and win the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup."

KL Rahul knows exactly what it would mean to win this year's World Cup in England, having seen for himself what a 2011 triumph on home soil meant to his fellow Indians.

KL Rahul knows exactly what it would mean to win this year's World Cup in England, having seen for himself what a 2011 triumph on home soil meant to his fellow Indians. Eight years ago, Rahul was a teenager watching television in a Bangalore bar as Gautam Gambhir's 97 and then-captain MS Dhoni's 91 not out saw India beat Sri Lanka in the World Cup final in Mumbai. "When the game was over it was absolute chaos. The roads were blocked, everybody left their homes and was on the road celebrating," Rahul said Friday as he recalled the aftermath of India's second World Cup triumph. "It was an unbelievable experience to see so many people forgetting about their worries. Whatever they had going on in their lives, they were just so, so happy India had won the World Cup. "It was even bigger because we won it at home in India -- it brought billions of people together and brought so much joy." Rahul was already a first-class cricketer but said watching the match made him want to focus more. "I knew what a World Cup could do to the country, how big it is and how valuable it is to be part of a World Cup dream," he said. "To be here after eight years representing my country means the world to me. I'm looking forward to hopefully inspiring billions of people again and to win the WorldCup would be the icing on the cake." Now the 27-year-old Rahul finds himself in the same side as Dhoni and fellow 2011 winner Virat Kohli, the star batsman who has succeeded the wicket-keeper as India captain. And he said the current side had the talent to equal the achievement of Kapil Dev's celebrated team in 1983 by winning a World Cup in England. "To be part of this team is incredible,” Rahul said. "It's not just MS and Virat, there are so many other talented individuals -- Rohit (Sharma) and Shikhar (Dhawan) and Jasprit (Bumrah), who is the most feared bowler in world cricket right now. "Hopefully the hard work we have put in over the past two or three years means we can go out there, enjoy ourselves and win the World Cup."

KL Rahul inspired by memories of 2011 World Cup glory

Koffee with Karan’s controversial episode featuring the two Indian cricketers was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage. It prompted the CoA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia and handed them provisional suspensions. Pandya and Rahul then tendered unconditional apologies

India's star batsman KL Rahul was at the receiving end for the sexist comments he made along with teammate Hardik Pandya on Karan Johar's TV show Koffee with Karan, that was aired in the first week of January.

The comments triggered outrage as the two boasted about hooking up with multiple women and also how open they had been about it with their parents and family.

The two cricketers were labelled misogynistic and sexist, forcing them to offer unconditional apologies.&nbsp;

Rahul kept his calm took and proved his worth as a cricketer by displaying his batting prowess in the 12 the edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

Not only he depleted the bowling attack of the opponent teams but also book a World Cup place for himself.&nbsp;

On being asked what he has to say about the entire controversy that almost ruined his career, Rahul said, "what fun is it if there's no ups and downs in life".

Ya, look, what fun is it if there's no ups and downs in life. Life will just become boring and it doesn't mean I am expecting bad things to happen to me but yes I am somebody who just takes things as it comes."

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The 27-year-old also stressed that the entire controversy&nbsp;which left the cricket world divided was "unnecessary".

"It was very unnecessary and not expected. But yes it happens. It helped me grow as a person and the stronger I am as a person that reflects on how I play my cricket as well. Even in Sports, you are knocked down sometimes, you need to learn how to fight that battle and also win the game for your team. So, I have taken everything positively."

Combing back to IPL, KL Rahul has led the Punjab franchise from the front, hitting 550 runs in 12 games.

The batsman, so far, has one century and five half-centuries to his name to become the most dependent batsman of the team.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Punjab will lock horns with Kolkata in a must-win encounter to keep their remote play-off chances alive.&nbsp;

Koffee with Karan’s controversial episode featuring the two Indian cricketers was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage. It prompted the CoA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia and handed them provisional suspensions.

Koffee with Karan’s controversial episode featuring the two Indian cricketers was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage. It prompted the CoA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia and handed them provisional suspensions. Pandya and Rahul then tendered unconditional apologies India's star batsman KL Rahul was at the receiving end for the sexist comments he made along with teammate Hardik Pandya on Karan Johar's TV show Koffee with Karan, that was aired in the first week of January. The comments triggered outrage as the two boasted about hooking up with multiple women and also how open they had been about it with their parents and family. The two cricketers were labelled misogynistic and sexist, forcing them to offer unconditional apologies. Rahul kept his calm took and proved his worth as a cricketer by displaying his batting prowess in the 12 the edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Not only he depleted the bowling attack of the opponent teams but also book a World Cup place for himself. On being asked what he has to say about the entire controversy that almost ruined his career, Rahul said, "what fun is it if there's no ups and downs in life". Ya, look, what fun is it if there's no ups and downs in life. Life will just become boring and it doesn't mean I am expecting bad things to happen to me but yes I am somebody who just takes things as it comes." × The 27-year-old also stressed that the entire controversy which left the cricket world divided was "unnecessary". "It was very unnecessary and not expected. But yes it happens. It helped me grow as a person and the stronger I am as a person that reflects on how I play my cricket as well. Even in Sports, you are knocked down sometimes, you need to learn how to fight that battle and also win the game for your team. So, I have taken everything positively." Combing back to IPL, KL Rahul has led the Punjab franchise from the front, hitting 550 runs in 12 games. The batsman, so far, has one century and five half-centuries to his name to become the most dependent batsman of the team. Later in the day, Punjab will lock horns with Kolkata in a must-win encounter to keep their remote play-off chances alive.

KL Rahul on Koffee with Karan controversy: 'What fun is it if there's no ups and downs in life'

Kings XI Punjab take on Kolkata Knight Riders in a crunch contest of IPL 2019 on May 3. The 2014 runners-up have won just two of their last eight games and are winless in their last three despite their star batsman KL Rahul's stellar campaign in which he has amassed over 500 runs. In an exclusive conversation, the wicket-keeper batsman opens up on that controversial appearance on Koffee With Karan as well his selection to India's World Cup squad.

Exclusive: KXIP's KL Rahul on WION

Legendary cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Sachin+Tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> Thursday said the World Cup in the United Kingdom will offer beautiful batting tracks but he doesn't expect the ball to swing much in the hot conditions that will prevail there.

The World Cup, which will kick-start on May 30 in the UK, will see all 10 participating nations face-off against each other.

"I am told it's going to be a hot summer. Even in the Champions Trophy, the wickets were superb when the sun was out. In the heat, the wickets get really flat. I am sure they will give beautiful tracks to bat on," Tendulkar said on the sidelines of the inauguration of the MIG Club pavilion named after him.&nbsp;

"I don't think there will be much difference in the conditions unless there is a heavy cloud cover. If there is a cloud cover, the ball might go around a bit. Even if that's the case I don't see that happening for a longer duration just the first over if at all," he added.&nbsp;

Several Indian players, including captain Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul, are performing well in the ongoing Indian Premier League.

Asked if that will help them in the World Cup, Tendulkar said,&nbsp;"A good performance in any format is good news because it gives the player confidence. If you are confident in any format, that's important."

"The players have time to make some adjustments according to the conditions. All of them have played enough cricket to know what to do to improve," he added.

The 46-year-old, who also launched the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy camp here, recalled an interesting anecdote from one of the playing trips to England.

"Once, we played a match in Essex and were travelling to our next venue and there was a major motor accident. In 3-3.5 hours we had just covered just 250 metres. We thought if we walk we might possibly cover more distance. Even now when all of us get together we discuss that day and how half a movie ended while our bus coach was stuck at the same place", he said.

The cricket icon also extended his best wishes to another batting legend Brian Lara on his birthday.

"We both caught up a few weeks ago. I told him 50 down 50 to go. He is a wonderful chap, with him what you see is what you get. He is a thorough gentleman and we've gotten along well for several years. He has done special things on the cricket field but I hope the best is yet to come for him," Tendulkar said

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar Thursday said the World Cup in the United Kingdom will offer beautiful batting tracks but he doesn't expect the ball to swing much in the hot conditions that will prevail there.

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar Thursday said the World Cup in the United Kingdom will offer beautiful batting tracks but he doesn't expect the ball to swing much in the hot conditions that will prevail there. The World Cup, which will kick-start on May 30 in the UK, will see all 10 participating nations face-off against each other. "I am told it's going to be a hot summer. Even in the Champions Trophy, the wickets were superb when the sun was out. In the heat, the wickets get really flat. I am sure they will give beautiful tracks to bat on," Tendulkar said on the sidelines of the inauguration of the MIG Club pavilion named after him. "I don't think there will be much difference in the conditions unless there is a heavy cloud cover. If there is a cloud cover, the ball might go around a bit. Even if that's the case I don't see that happening for a longer duration just the first over if at all," he added. Several Indian players, including captain Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul, are performing well in the ongoing Indian Premier League. Asked if that will help them in the World Cup, Tendulkar said, "A good performance in any format is good news because it gives the player confidence. If you are confident in any format, that's important." "The players have time to make some adjustments according to the conditions. All of them have played enough cricket to know what to do to improve," he added. The 46-year-old, who also launched the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy camp here, recalled an interesting anecdote from one of the playing trips to England. "Once, we played a match in Essex and were travelling to our next venue and there was a major motor accident. In 3-3.5 hours we had just covered just 250 metres. We thought if we walk we might possibly cover more distance. Even now when all of us get together we discuss that day and how half a movie ended while our bus coach was stuck at the same place", he said. The cricket icon also extended his best wishes to another batting legend Brian Lara on his birthday. "We both caught up a few weeks ago. I told him 50 down 50 to go. He is a wonderful chap, with him what you see is what you get. He is a thorough gentleman and we've gotten along well for several years. He has done special things on the cricket field but I hope the best is yet to come for him," Tendulkar said

Beautiful tracks for batsmen but bowlers won't get lateral movement at the World Cup in England: Tendulkar

Punjab opener KL Rahul defended his strategy of playing slow initially while chasing a mammoth 213 against Hyderabad in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a>, saying one between him and Chris Gayle was supposed to go all out upfront while the other tried to take the game deep.

Chasing a huge total, Rahul (79 off 56; 4x4, 5x6) made a valiant effort with the bat but lacked support from the other end as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-brilliant-david-warner-hands-hyderabad-45-run-win-over-punjab-214615">Punjab were restricted to 167 for eight in their 20 overs.&nbsp;</a>

"That's been the team plan. One of me or Chris Gayle look to bat 15-16 overs as deep as possible so the others can play around," said Rahul at the post-match press conference.

"That doesn't mean that you don't play your shots. I tried my shots a few times, it didn't come off, few went for boundaries, few hit the fielders."

Rahul though finished with a strike-rate of 141.07 but at one stage he had just made 39 off 36 deliveries when the required rate was well above 15 runs per over.

The 27-year-old explained that he knew he could make up for it in the back end had he stayed on the crease in the middle overs.

"Not always as a batsman you will get off to an amazing start, you don't get a 20-ball 50 each time. Sometimes when you get off to a start like that you have got to make it count but sometimes when you are not finding your touch you have to hang in there. I know that if I am set I can make up for it," said Rahul.

He ruled that the lack of partnerships hampered his team.

"We couldn't get enough batting partnerships. We were batting well, unfortunate that each time we tried to take a chance we found a fielder."

Rahul also backed Mujeeb ur Rahman, who conceded 66 runs in his four overs, highest in this year's IPL.

"Obviously, anybody who goes for that many runs will be disappointed. Sometimes it is not your day. In T20 cricket that happens. Everyday one of the bowlers will get targeted and go for runs.

"He is a young guy, he has a lot of skill. This is the first time he has gone for so many runs. Before this he has done really really well for Kings XI and yeah one-off game this happens to every bowler. The best of bowlers will get hit for 50-60 runs, you just have to look to bounce back," said Rahul.

Punjab used only five bowlers despite going for runs and Rahul said that injuries to a lot of their key players prevented them from going for the sixth bowling option.

"It is not an excuse but there are a few injuries in the team which doesn't allow us to go with a sixth bowling option or play an all-rounder," Rahul clarified.

"When you are going in with five bowlers, all of them have to bowl four overs each. There is not really a choice. When you have gone with five full-time bowlers, you have to trust them. You expect them to deliver most times but some times it does not happen," he added.

Punjab opener KL Rahul defended his strategy of playing slow initially while chasing a mammoth 213 against Hyderabad in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), saying one between him and Chris Gayle was supposed to go all out upfront while the other tried to take the game deep.

Punjab opener KL Rahul defended his strategy of playing slow initially while chasing a mammoth 213 against Hyderabad in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), saying one between him and Chris Gayle was supposed to go all out upfront while the other tried to take the game deep. Chasing a huge total, Rahul (79 off 56; 4x4, 5x6) made a valiant effort with the bat but lacked support from the other end as Punjab were restricted to 167 for eight in their 20 overs. "That's been the team plan. One of me or Chris Gayle look to bat 15-16 overs as deep as possible so the others can play around," said Rahul at the post-match press conference. "That doesn't mean that you don't play your shots. I tried my shots a few times, it didn't come off, few went for boundaries, few hit the fielders." Rahul though finished with a strike-rate of 141.07 but at one stage he had just made 39 off 36 deliveries when the required rate was well above 15 runs per over. The 27-year-old explained that he knew he could make up for it in the back end had he stayed on the crease in the middle overs. "Not always as a batsman you will get off to an amazing start, you don't get a 20-ball 50 each time. Sometimes when you get off to a start like that you have got to make it count but sometimes when you are not finding your touch you have to hang in there. I know that if I am set I can make up for it," said Rahul. He ruled that the lack of partnerships hampered his team. "We couldn't get enough batting partnerships. We were batting well, unfortunate that each time we tried to take a chance we found a fielder." Rahul also backed Mujeeb ur Rahman, who conceded 66 runs in his four overs, highest in this year's IPL. "Obviously, anybody who goes for that many runs will be disappointed. Sometimes it is not your day. In T20 cricket that happens. Everyday one of the bowlers will get targeted and go for runs. "He is a young guy, he has a lot of skill. This is the first time he has gone for so many runs. Before this he has done really really well for Kings XI and yeah one-off game this happens to every bowler. The best of bowlers will get hit for 50-60 runs, you just have to look to bounce back," said Rahul. Punjab used only five bowlers despite going for runs and Rahul said that injuries to a lot of their key players prevented them from going for the sixth bowling option. "It is not an excuse but there are a few injuries in the team which doesn't allow us to go with a sixth bowling option or play an all-rounder," Rahul clarified. "When you are going in with five bowlers, all of them have to bowl four overs each. There is not really a choice. When you have gone with five full-time bowlers, you have to trust them. You expect them to deliver most times but some times it does not happen," he added.

IPL 2019: Punjab's KL Rahul defends playing slow initially against Hyderabad

India cricketers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=hardil+pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=kl+rahul">KL Rahul</a> were on Saturday fined INR 20 lakh each by the BCCI Ombudsman DK Jain for their sexist comments on a popular TV show.&nbsp;

In the order published on the official BCCI website, Jain wrote that no further action will be taken against Pandya and Rahul, who have already served a provisional suspension and tendered an unconditional apology for their loose comments on women.&nbsp;

Instead, he directed the World Cup-bound players to play a fine of INR 20 lakh each that included a payment of INR 1 lakh each to "each of the most deserving widows often constables in para-military forces who have lost their lives while on duty, through 'Bharat Ke Veer App".&nbsp;

Jain also instructed them to deposit INR 10 lakh each in the fund "created by the Cricket Association for the blind". All payments are to be made within four weeks from the date of the order -- April 19, 2019.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court-appointed Ombudsman had issued notices to Pandya and Rahul earlier this month to appear for deposition for their controversial comments on 'Koffee with Karan'.&nbsp;

Pandya and Rahul were provisionally suspended by the Committee of Administrators (COA) for their remarks before the suspension was lifted pending an inquiry by the Ombudsman.

Both players became subjects of nationwide criticism following their remarks on women.&nbsp;

The controversial episode was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage, which prompted the COA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia, handing them provisional suspensions.&nbsp;

The two tendered unconditional apologies and their ban was provisionally lifted pending inquiry. Once Jain assumed his role, the COA handed over the matter to Ombudsman for the completion of inquiry.&nbsp;

The two players have also spoken publicly on the incident, recalling one of the toughest phases of their respective careers.

India cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul were on Saturday fined INR 20 lakh each by the BCCI Ombudsman DK Jain for their sexist comments on a popular TV show.

India cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul were on Saturday fined INR 20 lakh each by the BCCI Ombudsman DK Jain for their sexist comments on a popular TV show. In the order published on the official BCCI website, Jain wrote that no further action will be taken against Pandya and Rahul, who have already served a provisional suspension and tendered an unconditional apology for their loose comments on women. Instead, he directed the World Cup-bound players to play a fine of INR 20 lakh each that included a payment of INR 1 lakh each to "each of the most deserving widows often constables in para-military forces who have lost their lives while on duty, through 'Bharat Ke Veer App". Jain also instructed them to deposit INR 10 lakh each in the fund "created by the Cricket Association for the blind". All payments are to be made within four weeks from the date of the order -- April 19, 2019. The Supreme Court-appointed Ombudsman had issued notices to Pandya and Rahul earlier this month to appear for deposition for their controversial comments on 'Koffee with Karan'. Pandya and Rahul were provisionally suspended by the Committee of Administrators (COA) for their remarks before the suspension was lifted pending an inquiry by the Ombudsman. Both players became subjects of nationwide criticism following their remarks on women. The controversial episode was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage, which prompted the COA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia, handing them provisional suspensions. The two tendered unconditional apologies and their ban was provisionally lifted pending inquiry. Once Jain assumed his role, the COA handed over the matter to Ombudsman for the completion of inquiry. The two players have also spoken publicly on the incident, recalling one of the toughest phases of their respective careers.

Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul fined Rs 20 lakh each for their sexist comments

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

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

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

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

11 players who can solve fourth-place conundrum in Team India's World Cup squad

Stand-in captain Kieron Pollard's sensational 83-run knock put KL Rahul's maiden IPL hundred in the shade as Mumbai pulled off a thrilling last-ball three-wicket win over Punjab, here Wednesday.&nbsp;

Rahul and Chris Gayle, who struck a 36-ball 63 powered Punjab to an imposing 197 for four after being asked to bat.&nbsp;

Pollard single-handedly brought his side back in the game with his 31-ball knock punishing the Punjab bowlers with 10 sixes and three fours.

The burly West Indian was dismissed in the second ball of the last over with four needed for victory from final five balls.

Alzarri Joseph (15 not out), who added a crucial 54 runs in 23 balls with Pollard for the seventh wicket, and Rahul Chahar (1) managed to hold their nerves to take side past the finish line.

The victory was the third in a row for Mumbai and took their tally to eight from six games while Punjab suffered their third defeat in seven games.&nbsp;

Pollard's pyrotechnics stole the thunder from Punjab openers K L Rahul who had carried his bat through with an unbeaten 100 in 64 balls with the help of six fours and as many sixes and his opening partner Chris Gayle who smashed 63 in 36 balls with seven sixes and three fours.

Pollard, standing in for Rohit Sharma, who missed out on the game due to leg spasm injury, promoted himself in the order.

After 10 overs, Mumbai needed 133 in 60 balls, still fancying their chances with the big-hitting Pollard at the crease and another fine finisher Hardik Pandya to follow.

Shami got rid of the other Hardhik and Krunal Pandya in spac of four balls.

The equation whittled down to 63 from 30 balls and then 15 off the last six balls after Pollard smacked Curran for two sixes and a four in the penultimate over before he was caught off Rajput in the last over.

Earlier, Gayle, who smashed seven towering sixes and also hit three fours, laid the platform for the big total with his opening partner Rahul.

The duo's 116-run stand in 77 balls took Mumbai by storm. Gayle's dismissal in the 13th over slowed down the innings but Rahul punished Hardik Pandya by hitting three sixes and a four in the 19th, which yielded them 25 runs.&nbsp;

Thirteen came off the final over to boost the total.

The flamboyant Gayle, who was circumspect initially, struck Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff for three huge sixes and one four to cream off 23 runs to begin the punishing act.

In the ninth over, Gayle struck two fours and another massive leg-side six as 17 came off Hardik Pandya's over to take Punjab to 86 without loss.

The left-hander also hit leggie Rahul Chahar, and the Pandya brothers Krunal and Hardik for a six each. He reached his 50 in 31 balls and the team's 100 was raised in 10.2 overs.

Gayle's mayhem ended when he was caught at deep mid-wicket off Behrendorff to nip his opening partnership with Rahul.&nbsp;

The left-handed Gayle's departure slowed down the run-rate with Hardik sending back David Miller and Karun Nair cheaply and Bumrah accounting for Sam Curran between the 15th and 18th overs.

Rahul went on the offensive in the last two and in the process completed his century.

Mumbai were without captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested as a precautionary measure due to muscle spasm in his right leg.

Stand-in captain Kieron Pollard's sensational 83-run knock put KL Rahul's maiden IPL hundred in the shade as Mumbai pulled off a thrilling last-ball three-wicket win over Punjab, here Wednesday.

Stand-in captain Kieron Pollard's sensational 83-run knock put KL Rahul's maiden IPL hundred in the shade as Mumbai pulled off a thrilling last-ball three-wicket win over Punjab, here Wednesday. Rahul and Chris Gayle, who struck a 36-ball 63 powered Punjab to an imposing 197 for four after being asked to bat. Pollard single-handedly brought his side back in the game with his 31-ball knock punishing the Punjab bowlers with 10 sixes and three fours. The burly West Indian was dismissed in the second ball of the last over with four needed for victory from final five balls. Alzarri Joseph (15 not out), who added a crucial 54 runs in 23 balls with Pollard for the seventh wicket, and Rahul Chahar (1) managed to hold their nerves to take side past the finish line. The victory was the third in a row for Mumbai and took their tally to eight from six games while Punjab suffered their third defeat in seven games. Pollard's pyrotechnics stole the thunder from Punjab openers K L Rahul who had carried his bat through with an unbeaten 100 in 64 balls with the help of six fours and as many sixes and his opening partner Chris Gayle who smashed 63 in 36 balls with seven sixes and three fours. Pollard, standing in for Rohit Sharma, who missed out on the game due to leg spasm injury, promoted himself in the order. After 10 overs, Mumbai needed 133 in 60 balls, still fancying their chances with the big-hitting Pollard at the crease and another fine finisher Hardik Pandya to follow. Shami got rid of the other Hardhik and Krunal Pandya in spac of four balls. The equation whittled down to 63 from 30 balls and then 15 off the last six balls after Pollard smacked Curran for two sixes and a four in the penultimate over before he was caught off Rajput in the last over. Earlier, Gayle, who smashed seven towering sixes and also hit three fours, laid the platform for the big total with his opening partner Rahul. The duo's 116-run stand in 77 balls took Mumbai by storm. Gayle's dismissal in the 13th over slowed down the innings but Rahul punished Hardik Pandya by hitting three sixes and a four in the 19th, which yielded them 25 runs. Thirteen came off the final over to boost the total. The flamboyant Gayle, who was circumspect initially, struck Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff for three huge sixes and one four to cream off 23 runs to begin the punishing act. In the ninth over, Gayle struck two fours and another massive leg-side six as 17 came off Hardik Pandya's over to take Punjab to 86 without loss. The left-hander also hit leggie Rahul Chahar, and the Pandya brothers Krunal and Hardik for a six each. He reached his 50 in 31 balls and the team's 100 was raised in 10.2 overs. Gayle's mayhem ended when he was caught at deep mid-wicket off Behrendorff to nip his opening partnership with Rahul. The left-handed Gayle's departure slowed down the run-rate with Hardik sending back David Miller and Karun Nair cheaply and Bumrah accounting for Sam Curran between the 15th and 18th overs. Rahul went on the offensive in the last two and in the process completed his century. Mumbai were without captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested as a precautionary measure due to muscle spasm in his right leg.

IPL 2019: Kieron Pollard fashions sensational win for Mumbai against Punjab

MS Dhoni is known for his brilliant accuracy while stumping and he is often termed as one of the best wicketkeepers in the world. It is believed that he will keep the stumps in the upcoming cricket World Cup in England and Wales for India as he remains the trusted and efficient wicketkeeper for the team.&nbsp;

However, maybe for the first time, Dhoni committed an unexpected error on the field in an Indian Premier League match in which Chennai registered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-spinners-help-chennai-defend-160-against-punjab-reclaim-top-spot-208398">a 22-run win over Punjab</a>.&nbsp;

Also Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-chennai-skipper-ms-dhonis-sprint-competition-with-shane-watson-and-imran-tahirs-sons-208503">Chennai skipper MS Dhoni's sprint competition with Shane Watson and Imran Tahir's sons</a>&nbsp;

The incident happened when Punjab's batsman KL Rahul made the luckiest escape when MS Dhoni failed to run him out.&nbsp;

In the 13th over, Rahul's missed sweep saw Dhoni flick the ball on to the stumps but the bails didn't come off though the LED lights lit up, ensuring the batsman survived despite being short of his crease. &nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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KXIP's KL Rahul survived a close run out after MS Dhoni's direct hit fails to dislodge the bails from their groo . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lionsdenkxip</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/pUj4ZMnkXs">pic.twitter.com/pUj4ZMnkXs</a>
— Rakesh sharma (@rk11official) <a href="https://twitter.com/rk11official/status/1114802470742421504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MS Dhoni Gets Unlucky With No-Look Throw, KL Rahul Survives –&nbsp;Watch <a href="https://t.co/EFRPYTZZQc">https://t.co/EFRPYTZZQc</a> <a href="https://t.co/1xBeUnfb9u">pic.twitter.com/1xBeUnfb9u</a>
— Top Trending (@TopTrending18) <a href="https://twitter.com/TopTrending18/status/1114803959204597760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the match, however, led by seasoned Harbhajan Singh, Chennai spinners put on a dominating show to help the side reclaim the top position with a 22-run win over Punjab.&nbsp;

Defending 160 for three, Chennai restricted Punjab to 138 for 5 despite half-centuries from KL Rahul (55) and Sarfaraz Khan (67).&nbsp;

The visitors scored at a low pace and required to score 26 off the last over, bowled by IPL debutant Scott Kuggeleijn. The Kiwi paceman had no trouble defending those runs and also dismissed Sarfaraz.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni is known for his brilliant accuracy while stumping and he is often termed as one of the best wicketkeepers in the world. It is believed that he will keep the stumps in the upcoming cricket World Cup in England and Wales for India as he remains the trusted and efficient wicketkeeper for the team.

MS Dhoni is known for his brilliant accuracy while stumping and he is often termed as one of the best wicketkeepers in the world. It is believed that he will keep the stumps in the upcoming cricket World Cup in England and Wales for India as he remains the trusted and efficient wicketkeeper for the team. However, maybe for the first time, Dhoni committed an unexpected error on the field in an Indian Premier League match in which Chennai registered a 22-run win over Punjab. Also Watch: Chennai skipper MS Dhoni's sprint competition with Shane Watson and Imran Tahir's sons The incident happened when Punjab's batsman KL Rahul made the luckiest escape when MS Dhoni failed to run him out. In the 13th over, Rahul's missed sweep saw Dhoni flick the ball on to the stumps but the bails didn't come off though the LED lights lit up, ensuring the batsman survived despite being short of his crease. Watch the video: KXIP's KL Rahul survived a close run out after MS Dhoni's direct hit fails to dislodge the bails from their groo . #dhoni #IPL2019 #VIVOIPL #VIVOIPL2019 @lionsdenkxip @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/pUj4ZMnkXs — Rakesh sharma (@rk11official) April 7, 2019 × MS Dhoni Gets Unlucky With No-Look Throw, KL Rahul Survives – Watch https://t.co/EFRPYTZZQc pic.twitter.com/1xBeUnfb9u — Top Trending (@TopTrending18) April 7, 2019 × In the match, however, led by seasoned Harbhajan Singh, Chennai spinners put on a dominating show to help the side reclaim the top position with a 22-run win over Punjab. Defending 160 for three, Chennai restricted Punjab to 138 for 5 despite half-centuries from KL Rahul (55) and Sarfaraz Khan (67). The visitors scored at a low pace and required to score 26 off the last over, bowled by IPL debutant Scott Kuggeleijn. The Kiwi paceman had no trouble defending those runs and also dismissed Sarfaraz.

Watch: How MS Dhoni missed KL Rahul's stumping in IPL match

The Supreme Court-appointed BCCI ombudsman Justice (Retd) DK Jain has issued notices to India players <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Hardik+Pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=KL+Rahul">KL Rahul</a> to appear for deposition for their sexist comments on a TV chat show.&nbsp;

Pandya and Rahul were provisionally suspended by the Committee of Administrators (COA) for their loose talk on chat show "Koffee With Karan" before the ban was lifted pending an inquiry by the ombudsman.&nbsp;

"I have issued notices last week to Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul asking them to appear for deposition," Justice Jain told PTI on Monday.&nbsp;

However, it is not clear how the BCCI will co-ordinate with Pandya and Rahul's respective franchises Mumbai and Punjab to arrange for their deposition in between the ongoing IPL.&nbsp;

It is learnt that they might depose ahead of the April 11 clash between the two teams in Mumbai. &nbsp;

"Both are playing IPL and the itinerary is packed with back to back matches and a gruelling travel schedule," a BCCI official said.&nbsp;

The ombudsman, who is also the BCCI's ad-hoc Ethics Officer, made it clear that for the matter to reach its logical conclusion, the duo needs to depose.

"As per principles of natural justice, I need to hear their side. It's up to them now to decide when they want to appear," Justice Jain said.&nbsp;

It is understood that both players have to appear in person and not through their legal representatives.&nbsp;

The controversial episode was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage, which prompted the COA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia handing them provisional suspensions.&nbsp;

The two tendered unconditional apologies and their ban was provisionally lifted pending inquiry.&nbsp;

Once Jain assumed his role, the COA handed over the matter to him for the completion of the inquiry.&nbsp;

Jain has also received a complaint about former India captain Sourav Ganguly's alleged 'Conflict of Interest' in his dual role of being the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president and an adviser to IPL franchise Delhi.&nbsp;

"I am supposed to receive a fresh set of complaints on various issues today. I don't know whether the issue (Ganguly's Conflict) is in this lot or not. As and when I get the details, I will have a detailed look into the matter," said Jain.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court-appointed BCCI ombudsman Justice (Retd) DK Jain has issued notices to India players Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul to appear for deposition for their sexist comments on a TV chat show.

The Supreme Court-appointed BCCI ombudsman Justice (Retd) DK Jain has issued notices to India players Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul to appear for deposition for their sexist comments on a TV chat show. Pandya and Rahul were provisionally suspended by the Committee of Administrators (COA) for their loose talk on chat show "Koffee With Karan" before the ban was lifted pending an inquiry by the ombudsman. "I have issued notices last week to Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul asking them to appear for deposition," Justice Jain told PTI on Monday. However, it is not clear how the BCCI will co-ordinate with Pandya and Rahul's respective franchises Mumbai and Punjab to arrange for their deposition in between the ongoing IPL. It is learnt that they might depose ahead of the April 11 clash between the two teams in Mumbai. "Both are playing IPL and the itinerary is packed with back to back matches and a gruelling travel schedule," a BCCI official said. The ombudsman, who is also the BCCI's ad-hoc Ethics Officer, made it clear that for the matter to reach its logical conclusion, the duo needs to depose. "As per principles of natural justice, I need to hear their side. It's up to them now to decide when they want to appear," Justice Jain said. It is understood that both players have to appear in person and not through their legal representatives. The controversial episode was aired in the first week of January, triggering outrage, which prompted the COA to call the duo back from the tour of Australia handing them provisional suspensions. The two tendered unconditional apologies and their ban was provisionally lifted pending inquiry. Once Jain assumed his role, the COA handed over the matter to him for the completion of the inquiry. Jain has also received a complaint about former India captain Sourav Ganguly's alleged 'Conflict of Interest' in his dual role of being the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president and an adviser to IPL franchise Delhi. "I am supposed to receive a fresh set of complaints on various issues today. I don't know whether the issue (Ganguly's Conflict) is in this lot or not. As and when I get the details, I will have a detailed look into the matter," said Jain.

Sexist comments: BCCI ombudsman issues notices to Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul

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