Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. 
 
Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium. 
 
By doing so, he took his run tally to 2,452 runs, going two runs ahead of Kohli's total. 
 
Sharma also became the most capped player for India in the shortest format of the game. He has now played 99 matches for the Men in Blue, breaking MS Dhoni's record of 98 appearances. 
 
India is&nbsp;currently playing on 75/3 after the conclusion of 12 overs after they were sent to bat first.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium. By doing so, he took his run tally to 2,452 runs, going two runs ahead of Kohli's total. Sharma also became the most capped player for India in the shortest format of the game. He has now played 99 matches for the Men in Blue, breaking MS Dhoni's record of 98 appearances. India is currently playing on 75/3 after the conclusion of 12 overs after they were sent to bat first.

Rohit Sharma scores most runs in T20I, breaks Kohli's record

India captain Virat Kohli's decision to bat first against South Africa in the third and final Twenty20 International backfired but the 30-year-old says the hosts want to prepare for next year's Twenty20 World Cup by minimising the impact of the toss.

It was the first time in seven T20Is at the Chinnaswamy Stadium that the captain winning the toss chose to bat, only for a revamped South Africa to claim a series-levelling nine-wicket win on Sunday.

"Nothing is a given or a guarantee before you start playing," Kohli told reporters.

"I think if we as a team are willing to get out of our comfort zones a lot more, then we will be unfazed with what happens at the toss.

"Unless you do that and start taking those risks, you are always going to be put under pressure somewhere or the other. We want to make sure we iron all of those things out before we head into the World Cup."

India failed to capitalise on an aggressive start and ended with a below-par 134 for 9.

Ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia in Oct. 2020, Kohli's top priority is to recalibrate India's batting combinations in the shortest format.

"You have to understand as well that it's a very young side, you have to give them time as a team to come together," he added.

"We batted till nine tonight, and that's one area we're looking to strengthen."

India's focus now shifts to the three-match Test series against South Africa, with the opening match in Visakhapatnam starting Oct. 2.

India captain Virat Kohli's decision to bat first against South Africa in the third and final Twenty20 International backfired but the 30-year-old says the hosts want to prepare for next year's Twenty20 World Cup by minimising the impact of the toss.

India captain Virat Kohli's decision to bat first against South Africa in the third and final Twenty20 International backfired but the 30-year-old says the hosts want to prepare for next year's Twenty20 World Cup by minimising the impact of the toss. It was the first time in seven T20Is at the Chinnaswamy Stadium that the captain winning the toss chose to bat, only for a revamped South Africa to claim a series-levelling nine-wicket win on Sunday. "Nothing is a given or a guarantee before you start playing," Kohli told reporters. "I think if we as a team are willing to get out of our comfort zones a lot more, then we will be unfazed with what happens at the toss. "Unless you do that and start taking those risks, you are always going to be put under pressure somewhere or the other. We want to make sure we iron all of those things out before we head into the World Cup." India failed to capitalise on an aggressive start and ended with a below-par 134 for 9. Ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia in Oct. 2020, Kohli's top priority is to recalibrate India's batting combinations in the shortest format. "You have to understand as well that it's a very young side, you have to give them time as a team to come together," he added. "We batted till nine tonight, and that's one area we're looking to strengthen." India's focus now shifts to the three-match Test series against South Africa, with the opening match in Visakhapatnam starting Oct. 2.

Virat Kohli wants India to step out of comfort zone ahead of World T20

Keeping India's pace battery fully charged will be crucial to the team's ICC World Test Championship chances, skipper Virat Kohli said following their win over West Indies in the first Test on Sunday.

Jasprit Bumrah took five wickets for seven runs while fellow fast bowler Ishant Sharma claimed three as India recorded their biggest ever away win by runs, thrashing the hosts by 318 runs in Antigua.

Bumrah's fourth five-wicket haul made him the only Asian to achieve the feat in South Africa, England, Australia and West Indies, and Kohli justified the decision to rest the 25-year-old for the three ODIs and three T20 games before the Tests.

"That's why Bumrah didn't play any white-ball cricket after the World Cup because we wanted him fresh for the Tests," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"He's going to be a key factor for us as long as the Test championship continues. We know how good a bowler he is and the impact he can make in a spell.

"That's probably the most important thing for us right now, managing player workloads."

The inaugural championship involves the nine top-ranked Test nations competing in a league between July 2019 and April 2021, with the top two sides progressing to the final which will be held in England in June 2021.

"Mohammed Shami is the same (as Bumrah). Ishant Sharma is a banker for years now and he can make an impact in any spell he bowls. Those three together are bowling well," Kohli added.

"Umesh Yadav hasn't had a game, and we have Navdeep Saini, who can bowl 150 clicks (kmph), waiting in the wings. We're pretty settled as far as our bowling options are concerned."

In another positive sign, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane scored his first century in international cricket in over two years, scoring 102 in the second innings while Hanuma Vihari made 93.

All-rounder Vihari, preferred ahead of batsman Rohit Sharma due to his part-time off-spin, said he was working on his bowling to keep his place.

"It's important that my off-spin keeps developing, not only for myself but for the team as I fit in just because of that combination," Vihari told a news conference.

"I'm trying to ... get better at it. So, hopefully, I'll get more overs and help the team in the future."

The second and final Test begins in Jamaica on Friday.

Keeping India's pace battery fully charged will be crucial to the team's ICC World Test Championship chances, skipper Virat Kohli said following their win over West Indies in the first Test on Sunday.

Keeping India's pace battery fully charged will be crucial to the team's ICC World Test Championship chances, skipper Virat Kohli said following their win over West Indies in the first Test on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah took five wickets for seven runs while fellow fast bowler Ishant Sharma claimed three as India recorded their biggest ever away win by runs, thrashing the hosts by 318 runs in Antigua. Bumrah's fourth five-wicket haul made him the only Asian to achieve the feat in South Africa, England, Australia and West Indies, and Kohli justified the decision to rest the 25-year-old for the three ODIs and three T20 games before the Tests. "That's why Bumrah didn't play any white-ball cricket after the World Cup because we wanted him fresh for the Tests," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "He's going to be a key factor for us as long as the Test championship continues. We know how good a bowler he is and the impact he can make in a spell. "That's probably the most important thing for us right now, managing player workloads." The inaugural championship involves the nine top-ranked Test nations competing in a league between July 2019 and April 2021, with the top two sides progressing to the final which will be held in England in June 2021. "Mohammed Shami is the same (as Bumrah). Ishant Sharma is a banker for years now and he can make an impact in any spell he bowls. Those three together are bowling well," Kohli added. "Umesh Yadav hasn't had a game, and we have Navdeep Saini, who can bowl 150 clicks (kmph), waiting in the wings. We're pretty settled as far as our bowling options are concerned." In another positive sign, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane scored his first century in international cricket in over two years, scoring 102 in the second innings while Hanuma Vihari made 93. All-rounder Vihari, preferred ahead of batsman Rohit Sharma due to his part-time off-spin, said he was working on his bowling to keep his place. "It's important that my off-spin keeps developing, not only for myself but for the team as I fit in just because of that combination," Vihari told a news conference. "I'm trying to ... get better at it. So, hopefully, I'll get more overs and help the team in the future." The second and final Test begins in Jamaica on Friday.

Managing bowlers' workload top priority for India captain Virat Kohli

Ahead of India's first Test match of a two-match Test series against West Indies, Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli got an opportunity to interview former Windies cricketer Vivian Richards.&nbsp;

In a video posted on the Twitter handle of India's cricket board BCCI, Kohli&nbsp;introduced Viv Richards as "the greatest inspiration to all of us batsmen", he further&nbsp;quizzed&nbsp;the Windies great&nbsp;to understand his fearless mindset while facing the fastest of bowlers of his time.&nbsp;

Virat said that earlier there were less protection and no restriction on bouncers but despite that Richards dominated the game with ease.&nbsp;

Virat asked, "Whenever I have seen videos of you walking out, you're in a hat, no helmets back then. Even when there were, after a point you chose not to. Because it was something that made you feel like you had the belief and 'you are chewing gum'."&nbsp;

"What did you feel from the time you left the changing room till you got to the pitch. What was the mindset?" Kohli added. &nbsp;

Replying to that, Richards said, "I believed I am the man," said Richards.&nbsp;

"It may sound arrogant but I always felt that I was involved in a game that I knew. I would back myself every time," he added.&nbsp;

"You have to back yourself to get hurt, to take the knocks. But the helmet — I tried, I am not going to lie and tell you. But, it felt a little uncomfortable. So I felt my cap, my maroon cap which was given to me. I felt so proud with that," said the 67-year-old.&nbsp;

"My mindset was that if I am good enough to be here, if I get hurt it's God's will. I will survive," he added.&nbsp;

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🚨Part of 2 of the special chat with <a href="https://twitter.com/ivivianrichards?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ivivianrichards</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is out! 
 
Playing in Australia brought the best out of them. Find out how they relished the challenge of taking on some of the best bowlers in the world. 😎 
 
Full interview 🎥 - <a href="https://t.co/1ystv9lmpa">https://t.co/1ystv9lmpa</a> <a href="https://t.co/4TraXddaTK">pic.twitter.com/4TraXddaTK</a>
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Richards, who had earlier praised Kohli's batting skills, said that he sees the same passion in the Indian skipper.&nbsp;"I see that little similarity in you and that same passion in you," said&nbsp;Richards.&nbsp;

Richards, who scored 8,540 Test runs and 6,721 One-Day International (ODI) runs before announcing retirement in 1991, further said, "I always felt I was good enough to be competing and I wanted to express myself in the best way that I can."&nbsp;

Ahead of India's first Test match of a two-match Test series against West Indies, Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli got an opportunity to interview former Windies cricketer Vivian Richards.

Ahead of India's first Test match of a two-match Test series against West Indies, Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli got an opportunity to interview former Windies cricketer Vivian Richards. In a video posted on the Twitter handle of India's cricket board BCCI, Kohli introduced Viv Richards as "the greatest inspiration to all of us batsmen", he further quizzed the Windies great to understand his fearless mindset while facing the fastest of bowlers of his time. Virat said that earlier there were less protection and no restriction on bouncers but despite that Richards dominated the game with ease. Virat asked, "Whenever I have seen videos of you walking out, you're in a hat, no helmets back then. Even when there were, after a point you chose not to. Because it was something that made you feel like you had the belief and 'you are chewing gum'." "What did you feel from the time you left the changing room till you got to the pitch. What was the mindset?" Kohli added. Replying to that, Richards said, "I believed I am the man," said Richards. "It may sound arrogant but I always felt that I was involved in a game that I knew. I would back myself every time," he added. "You have to back yourself to get hurt, to take the knocks. But the helmet — I tried, I am not going to lie and tell you. But, it felt a little uncomfortable. So I felt my cap, my maroon cap which was given to me. I felt so proud with that," said the 67-year-old. "My mindset was that if I am good enough to be here, if I get hurt it's God's will. I will survive," he added. 🚨Part of 2 of the special chat with @ivivianrichards and @imVkohli is out! Playing in Australia brought the best out of them. Find out how they relished the challenge of taking on some of the best bowlers in the world. 😎 Full interview 🎥 - https://t.co/1ystv9lmpa pic.twitter.com/4TraXddaTK — BCCI (@BCCI) August 23, 2019 × Richards, who had earlier praised Kohli's batting skills, said that he sees the same passion in the Indian skipper. "I see that little similarity in you and that same passion in you," said Richards. Richards, who scored 8,540 Test runs and 6,721 One-Day International (ODI) runs before announcing retirement in 1991, further said, "I always felt I was good enough to be competing and I wanted to express myself in the best way that I can."

I see same passion in you, says Vivian Richards to Virat Kohli

Indian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-eggs-on-rishabh-pant-to-unleash-potential-in-ms-dhonis-absence-240379">Virat Kohli</a> said after World Cup ouster, the first few days were difficult but like professionals, the team moved on and recovered from the shock World Cup semi-final defeat by New Zealand last month.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led T20 side is all set to take on West Indies in a three-match series, starting in the United States on August 3.&nbsp;

During the pre-match media conference, Kohli reflected on Team India's World Cup exit. He said, "Obviously the first few days after we exited the World Cup were quite difficult."

"Every time we woke up it was the worst feeling in the morning and through the day you do things and you know sort of get on with your life. But now look, we're professionals, we move ahead, every team has to move on so we're quite ok with what happened in the World Cup, Kohli added.&nbsp;

Ms Dhoni has opted out and India will also miss the services of all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the trip to the Caribbean, where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests.&nbsp;

"Yesterday the fielding session and a little bit of time we spent on the field was really good, everyone was excited, looking forward to just playing, just being on the field again. Everyone's looking forward to these games which I think is the most important thing."

Kohli also said it was a chance for the fringe players to make their case ahead of next year's World T20 in Australia.

"It will just give us an opportunity to have some fun together, understand why we've been so successful as a team and really focus on the things that matter, rather than focusing on the things that are not in our control," Kohli added.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said after World Cup ouster, the first few days were difficult but like professionals, the team moved on and recovered from the shock World Cup semi-final defeat by New Zealand last month.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said after World Cup ouster, the first few days were difficult but like professionals, the team moved on and recovered from the shock World Cup semi-final defeat by New Zealand last month. Virat Kohli-led T20 side is all set to take on West Indies in a three-match series, starting in the United States on August 3. During the pre-match media conference, Kohli reflected on Team India's World Cup exit. He said, "Obviously the first few days after we exited the World Cup were quite difficult." "Every time we woke up it was the worst feeling in the morning and through the day you do things and you know sort of get on with your life. But now look, we're professionals, we move ahead, every team has to move on so we're quite ok with what happened in the World Cup, Kohli added. Ms Dhoni has opted out and India will also miss the services of all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the trip to the Caribbean, where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. "Yesterday the fielding session and a little bit of time we spent on the field was really good, everyone was excited, looking forward to just playing, just being on the field again. Everyone's looking forward to these games which I think is the most important thing." Kohli also said it was a chance for the fringe players to make their case ahead of next year's World T20 in Australia. "It will just give us an opportunity to have some fun together, understand why we've been so successful as a team and really focus on the things that matter, rather than focusing on the things that are not in our control," Kohli added.

Team moved on from disappointing World Cup semi-final defeat, says Virat Kohli

Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the most popular footballer in South Korea at the moment but he has an ardent fan in India cricket captain Virat Kohli, who changes his club allegiance every time the Portuguese forward is transferred.

Lionel Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the global football landscape for a decade, each winning the Ballon d'Or five times before Croatia international midfielder Luka Modric broke their stranglehold by claiming the coveted award last year.

Kohli is arguably the best batsman of his generation across formats and became the first to win the International Cricket Council's cricketer, Test and one-day international player of the year awards together for a phenomenal 2018.

The 30-year-old rates former Real Madrid and Manchester United Ronaldo as the best he has seen.

"For me, Cristiano is above everyone else. His commitment and work ethic is unmatched. He wants it that bad – you can see it every game," Kohli told the FIFA website (www.fifa.com).

"In my opinion he has taken on more challenges and succeeded at all of them. He's the most complete player I have seen and his work ethic, as I mentioned, is unmatched.

"He inspires people. I don't think many people do that. He's also a leader and I love that. Absolutely love it. He has amazing belief too."

The Portuguese player with a huge fan following across the globe has, however, riled up his fans in South Korea who are exploring legal action to seek compensation after Ronaldo failed to play in a friendly during Juventus' pre-season tour in Seoul last week.

Kohli, a co-owner of an Indian Super League soccer franchise, enjoys cult status in cricket-crazy India and boasts 107 million followers across Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

"I like watching Portugal play now because they are maximising their resources along with having a legend in their team," Kohli added.

"They play with passion and belief, so I like watching them. Otherwise, in terms of pure ability and impact, France are very, very strong.

"I support Juventus now because of Cristiano. Simple. I support every club at which he plays. He inspires me."

French forward Kylian Mbappe, 20, is Kohli's choice to rule the football world after Ronaldo and Messi.

"His sprint in the 2018 World Cup against Argentina is hard to forget," Kohli said. "He's a beast and he will definitely be at the top of the pile for me. Absolutely top-class player."

Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the most popular footballer in South Korea at the moment but he has an ardent fan in India cricket captain Virat Kohli, who changes his club allegiance every time the Portuguese forward is transferred.

Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the most popular footballer in South Korea at the moment but he has an ardent fan in India cricket captain Virat Kohli, who changes his club allegiance every time the Portuguese forward is transferred. Lionel Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the global football landscape for a decade, each winning the Ballon d'Or five times before Croatia international midfielder Luka Modric broke their stranglehold by claiming the coveted award last year. Kohli is arguably the best batsman of his generation across formats and became the first to win the International Cricket Council's cricketer, Test and one-day international player of the year awards together for a phenomenal 2018. The 30-year-old rates former Real Madrid and Manchester United Ronaldo as the best he has seen. "For me, Cristiano is above everyone else. His commitment and work ethic is unmatched. He wants it that bad – you can see it every game," Kohli told the FIFA website (www.fifa.com). "In my opinion he has taken on more challenges and succeeded at all of them. He's the most complete player I have seen and his work ethic, as I mentioned, is unmatched. "He inspires people. I don't think many people do that. He's also a leader and I love that. Absolutely love it. He has amazing belief too." The Portuguese player with a huge fan following across the globe has, however, riled up his fans in South Korea who are exploring legal action to seek compensation after Ronaldo failed to play in a friendly during Juventus' pre-season tour in Seoul last week. Kohli, a co-owner of an Indian Super League soccer franchise, enjoys cult status in cricket-crazy India and boasts 107 million followers across Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. "I like watching Portugal play now because they are maximising their resources along with having a legend in their team," Kohli added. "They play with passion and belief, so I like watching them. Otherwise, in terms of pure ability and impact, France are very, very strong. "I support Juventus now because of Cristiano. Simple. I support every club at which he plays. He inspires me." French forward Kylian Mbappe, 20, is Kohli's choice to rule the football world after Ronaldo and Messi. "His sprint in the 2018 World Cup against Argentina is hard to forget," Kohli said. "He's a beast and he will definitely be at the top of the pile for me. Absolutely top-class player."

'Cristiano Ronaldo is above everyone else and inspires people,' says Virat Kohli

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-really-proud-how-we-competed-says-virat-kohli-after-losing-to-new-zealand-234766">Virat&nbsp;Kohli</a> admitted India had paid the price for "45 minutes of bad cricket" as the heart-broken skipper surveyed the wreckage of his side's stunning World Cup exit.

Kohli's team crashed to an unexpected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-stun-india-by-18-runs-to-reach-world-cup-final-234755">18-run defeat against New Zealand</a> in the semi-finals at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Needing just 240 to reach Sunday's final, two-time champions India were undone by a dismal start to their run chase.

Unable to cope with the pace bowling of Matt Henry and Trent Boult, India were reduced to 5-3, 24-4 and 92-6 before their Ravindra Jadeja-inspired late revival set up a tense finale that ultimately fell short.

Kohli was one of the India stars to flop as he was dismissed for one alongside Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, who also only managed a single each.

"We've played outstanding cricket throughout this tournament. To just go out on the basis of 45 minutes of bad cricket is saddening," Kohli told reporters.

"It breaks your heart also, because you worked so hard throughout the tournament to build momentum, you finish number one in the table, and then a spell of bad cricket and you're out of the tournament.

"New Zealand deserves a lot of credit because they really put up a great display of how to bowl with the new ball. They hit perfect line and length and forced us to make errors."

Kohli felt India had taken a huge step towards the final when they restricted New Zealand to 239-8 at the conclusion of the Black Caps' rain-interrupted 50 overs -- with the match carried over from Tuesday due to the bad weather.

"We got what we needed to get in the field this morning and we thought we had restricted them to a total that is chaseable on any surface. But the way they bowled in that first half an hour was the difference in the game," he said.

'One bad day'

Insisting India weren't fazed by having to return to Old Trafford to finish the match on the reserve day, Kohli added: "It was fine having to come back today. We had a good day yesterday and I'm very proud of that effort. Then it was a professional effort with the ball this morning and we had the momentum.

"But credit to the New Zealand bowlers, the way they bowled with the new ball, moving it around, it was an outstanding skill level on display and they made life very difficult for our batsmen."

New Zealand paceman Matt Henry was the wrecker-in-chief as he sent the in-form Sharma trudging back to the pavilion in his very first over.

Trent Boult got Kohli trapped lbw to rattle the famed Indian top-order and set the tone for the underdogs' victory.

Jadeja and MS Dhoni put on 116 runs for the seventh wicket to repair the damage, but their wickets spelt the end for the pre-tournament favourites.

Kohli insisted it was just a rare bad day at the office for India, who had finished the group stage in first place with seven wins from nine games before their disappointing semi-final exit.

"We are sad but not devastated. Because the kind of cricket we played in this tournament, we know where we stood as a team," Kohli added.

"Today we were not good enough. That's the nature of the tournament, one bad day at this stage and you are out of this tournament."

Match in numbers:
<img alt="Cricket World Cup. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="089491a5-e238-4ee0-999b-3d45c3d9c980" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/semi-final%201_1.jpg" />
&nbsp;

Virat Kohli admitted India had paid the price for "45 minutes of bad cricket" as the heart-broken skipper surveyed the wreckage of his side's stunning World Cup exit.

Virat Kohli admitted India had paid the price for "45 minutes of bad cricket" as the heart-broken skipper surveyed the wreckage of his side's stunning World Cup exit. Kohli's team crashed to an unexpected 18-run defeat against New Zealand in the semi-finals at Old Trafford on Wednesday. Needing just 240 to reach Sunday's final, two-time champions India were undone by a dismal start to their run chase. Unable to cope with the pace bowling of Matt Henry and Trent Boult, India were reduced to 5-3, 24-4 and 92-6 before their Ravindra Jadeja-inspired late revival set up a tense finale that ultimately fell short. Kohli was one of the India stars to flop as he was dismissed for one alongside Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, who also only managed a single each. "We've played outstanding cricket throughout this tournament. To just go out on the basis of 45 minutes of bad cricket is saddening," Kohli told reporters. "It breaks your heart also, because you worked so hard throughout the tournament to build momentum, you finish number one in the table, and then a spell of bad cricket and you're out of the tournament. "New Zealand deserves a lot of credit because they really put up a great display of how to bowl with the new ball. They hit perfect line and length and forced us to make errors." Kohli felt India had taken a huge step towards the final when they restricted New Zealand to 239-8 at the conclusion of the Black Caps' rain-interrupted 50 overs -- with the match carried over from Tuesday due to the bad weather. "We got what we needed to get in the field this morning and we thought we had restricted them to a total that is chaseable on any surface. But the way they bowled in that first half an hour was the difference in the game," he said. 'One bad day' Insisting India weren't fazed by having to return to Old Trafford to finish the match on the reserve day, Kohli added: "It was fine having to come back today. We had a good day yesterday and I'm very proud of that effort. Then it was a professional effort with the ball this morning and we had the momentum. "But credit to the New Zealand bowlers, the way they bowled with the new ball, moving it around, it was an outstanding skill level on display and they made life very difficult for our batsmen." New Zealand paceman Matt Henry was the wrecker-in-chief as he sent the in-form Sharma trudging back to the pavilion in his very first over. Trent Boult got Kohli trapped lbw to rattle the famed Indian top-order and set the tone for the underdogs' victory. Jadeja and MS Dhoni put on 116 runs for the seventh wicket to repair the damage, but their wickets spelt the end for the pre-tournament favourites. Kohli insisted it was just a rare bad day at the office for India, who had finished the group stage in first place with seven wins from nine games before their disappointing semi-final exit. "We are sad but not devastated. Because the kind of cricket we played in this tournament, we know where we stood as a team," Kohli added. "Today we were not good enough. That's the nature of the tournament, one bad day at this stage and you are out of this tournament." Match in numbers:

'Forty-five minutes of bad cricket put us out' says Kohli after India's shock exit

Indian skipper Virat Kohli, in a pre-match presser ahead of the semi-final clash of Cricket World Cup 2019 between India and New Zealand said that the whichever team handles pressure better will come out on top.&nbsp;

India atop the points table in the ongoing premier tournament and will face fourth-positioned New Zealand in the semi-final, which is scheduled to take place on July 9.&nbsp;

"Whichever team is more brave in being calculative, that team stands a better chance to win so we understand that combination, we have made it to a lot of knockout games and finals and it's up to both to bring their A-game," said Virat during the press conference.&nbsp;

Virat-led team steamrolled South Africa, Australia and arch-rivals Pakistan on their way to enter the semis, however, it was against minnows Afghanistan that they faced their first scare only to scrape through in the last over with paceman Mohammed Shami claiming a hat-trick.&nbsp;

The only loss came when hosts&nbsp;England defeated the 'Men in Blue' by&nbsp;31 runs at Edgbaston despite a century from Rohit Sharma, who is in terrific form.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-always-be-my-captain-virat-kohli-shares-emotional-message-for-ms-dhoni-233808">'You will always be my captain': Virat Kohli shares emotional message for MS Dhoni</a>

In the media address, Kohli said,&nbsp;"Decision making will be crucial. Both teams are experienced enough to have played these games," he said.&nbsp;

"New Zealand was in the finals last time&amp;they know how to play knock out games. They have had a wonderful World Cup again so they're a quality side," Kohli added.&nbsp;

Watch the full press conference:

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Indian skipper Virat Kohli, in a pre-match presser ahead of the semi-final clash of Cricket World Cup 2019 between India and New Zealand said that the whichever team handles pressure better will come out on top.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli, in a pre-match presser ahead of the semi-final clash of Cricket World Cup 2019 between India and New Zealand said that the whichever team handles pressure better will come out on top. India atop the points table in the ongoing premier tournament and will face fourth-positioned New Zealand in the semi-final, which is scheduled to take place on July 9. "Whichever team is more brave in being calculative, that team stands a better chance to win so we understand that combination, we have made it to a lot of knockout games and finals and it's up to both to bring their A-game," said Virat during the press conference. Virat-led team steamrolled South Africa, Australia and arch-rivals Pakistan on their way to enter the semis, however, it was against minnows Afghanistan that they faced their first scare only to scrape through in the last over with paceman Mohammed Shami claiming a hat-trick. The only loss came when hosts England defeated the 'Men in Blue' by 31 runs at Edgbaston despite a century from Rohit Sharma, who is in terrific form. Also Read: 'You will always be my captain': Virat Kohli shares emotional message for MS Dhoni In the media address, Kohli said, "Decision making will be crucial. Both teams are experienced enough to have played these games," he said. "New Zealand was in the finals last time&they know how to play knock out games. They have had a wonderful World Cup again so they're a quality side," Kohli added. Watch the full press conference: ×

World Cup: 'Decision making will be crucial,' says Virat Kohli ahead of semis

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-sri-lanka-by-seven-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-233658">India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka</a> in their last league stage match, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma said that the team is ready to face any opposition in semi-finals.&nbsp;

Rohit and Kl Rahul scored centuries to guide India towards a comfortable win over the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka team&nbsp;in their final Cricket World Cup group match at Headingley on Saturday.&nbsp;

With the win, India are now atop of points table and as per the current scenario they will face fourth-placed New Zealand in semis.

While the result of Australia vs South Africa clash,&nbsp;which is underway (when the story was filed),&nbsp;might change it as if Australia manage&nbsp;to win the game they will go on the top and will square-off against the Kiwis in semis and second-placed India will lock horns with England.&nbsp;

On being asked about the scenario, Kohli said, "We are happy with where we are placed. It is just about turning up on the semifinal day and putting up a performance,"

"The opposition has never mattered. We don't focus on what the opposition brings to the table. If we don't play well anyone can beat us and if we play well we can beat anyone," he said.&nbsp;

"The focus has to be within and we are confident of our skill sets. We just want to go out there in the semifinal and express our skills and strengths as a team. So regardless of who we will play, we want to play good cricket and get the result our way," he further added.&nbsp;

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Over to you Australia... 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/RSi5QgUHEI">pic.twitter.com/RSi5QgUHEI</a>
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Rohit also said, "As a team we are not thinking about that (Aus-SA game). We have had a great victory today and we want to celebrate that rather than thinking about what is going on there,"

"Whatever opposition comes our way we will put up a show," Rohit added.&nbsp;

After India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their last league stage match, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma said that the team is ready to face any opposition in semi-finals.

After India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their last league stage match, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma said that the team is ready to face any opposition in semi-finals. Rohit and Kl Rahul scored centuries to guide India towards a comfortable win over the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka team in their final Cricket World Cup group match at Headingley on Saturday. With the win, India are now atop of points table and as per the current scenario they will face fourth-placed New Zealand in semis. While the result of Australia vs South Africa clash, which is underway (when the story was filed), might change it as if Australia manage to win the game they will go on the top and will square-off against the Kiwis in semis and second-placed India will lock horns with England. On being asked about the scenario, Kohli said, "We are happy with where we are placed. It is just about turning up on the semifinal day and putting up a performance," "The opposition has never mattered. We don't focus on what the opposition brings to the table. If we don't play well anyone can beat us and if we play well we can beat anyone," he said. "The focus has to be within and we are confident of our skill sets. We just want to go out there in the semifinal and express our skills and strengths as a team. So regardless of who we will play, we want to play good cricket and get the result our way," he further added. Over to you Australia... 👀#CWC19 | #SLvIND pic.twitter.com/RSi5QgUHEI — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 6, 2019 × Rohit also said, "As a team we are not thinking about that (Aus-SA game). We have had a great victory today and we want to celebrate that rather than thinking about what is going on there," "Whatever opposition comes our way we will put up a show," Rohit added.

'Opposition has never mattered,' says Indian skipper Virat Kohli ahead of semis

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> shows no signs of pressure when he bats but the India captain says it's because he knows how to fake it.

Arguably the greatest batsman of his generation, Kohli also has possibly the toughest job in international cricket - of captaining the national team of a cricket-crazy nation of 1.4 billion.

The 30-year-old, however, seems immune to pressure that comes with his twin roles as could be gauged from his nerveless half-centuries in each of India's last four matches which includes a narrow escape against Afghanistan.

"That would be a lie if I say I'm not under pressure. I'm probably good at hiding it," Kohli told reporters ahead of Sunday's group match against England.

"Everyone feels butterflies in their stomach. I'm glad that I feel like that. If I don't, then probably I don't have enough motivation to play anymore.

"I look forward to that, and maybe that's why my body language is the way it is. But in all honesty, everyone feels pressure. It's just the way you portray it to the opposition is what makes all the difference."

In January, Kohli became the first player to win all three major ICC awards and completed 20,000 international runs in their win against West Indies, quickest to the mark.

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Pressure? Yes, <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is human too 🧐🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/ePGdaxXWPC">pic.twitter.com/ePGdaxXWPC</a>
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India, the tournament's only unbeaten team, take on an English side who are under pressure after back-to-back defeats jeopardised their semi-final prospects.

Eoin Morgan's men need to beat India and New Zealand -- two teams they have not defeated in World Cup since 1992 -- to make the semi-finals without bothering about other results.

Kohli admitted being surprised by the struggle of the hosts who entered the tournament as the top-ranked ODI team.

"Everyone is a bit surprised because we thought England is probably going to dominate in their own conditions," he said.

"But as I said at the beginning of the tournament, pressure is going to be a massive factor and low scores are going to be defended.

"We got a scare from Afghanistan... So you can't take anything for granted."

Kohli suggested India would field an unchanged squad with quick Bhuvneshwar Kumar continuing his recovery from a tight hamstring and Vijay Shankar retaining his place at number four.

Mohammed Shami, replacing Kumar, has claimed eight wickets in two matches to present India with a pace bowling dilemma.

"Shami, in the last year and a half, has come around amazingly well. I've never seen him fitter... he has that hunger within him, and he's bowling really, really well at the moment.

"Bhuvi is recovering very fast. When he gets fit, it's going to be a bit of a headache for us to see what we're going to do."

Virat Kohli shows no signs of pressure when he bats but the India captain says it's because he knows how to fake it. Arguably the greatest batsman of his generation, Kohli also has possibly the toughest job in international cricket - of captaining the national team of a cricket-crazy nation of 1.

Virat Kohli shows no signs of pressure when he bats but the India captain says it's because he knows how to fake it. Arguably the greatest batsman of his generation, Kohli also has possibly the toughest job in international cricket - of captaining the national team of a cricket-crazy nation of 1.4 billion. The 30-year-old, however, seems immune to pressure that comes with his twin roles as could be gauged from his nerveless half-centuries in each of India's last four matches which includes a narrow escape against Afghanistan. "That would be a lie if I say I'm not under pressure. I'm probably good at hiding it," Kohli told reporters ahead of Sunday's group match against England. "Everyone feels butterflies in their stomach. I'm glad that I feel like that. If I don't, then probably I don't have enough motivation to play anymore. "I look forward to that, and maybe that's why my body language is the way it is. But in all honesty, everyone feels pressure. It's just the way you portray it to the opposition is what makes all the difference." In January, Kohli became the first player to win all three major ICC awards and completed 20,000 international runs in their win against West Indies, quickest to the mark. Watch the video: Pressure? Yes, @imVkohli is human too 🧐🤔 #TeamIndia #ENGvIND #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/ePGdaxXWPC — BCCI (@BCCI) June 29, 2019 × India, the tournament's only unbeaten team, take on an English side who are under pressure after back-to-back defeats jeopardised their semi-final prospects. Eoin Morgan's men need to beat India and New Zealand -- two teams they have not defeated in World Cup since 1992 -- to make the semi-finals without bothering about other results. Kohli admitted being surprised by the struggle of the hosts who entered the tournament as the top-ranked ODI team. "Everyone is a bit surprised because we thought England is probably going to dominate in their own conditions," he said. "But as I said at the beginning of the tournament, pressure is going to be a massive factor and low scores are going to be defended. "We got a scare from Afghanistan... So you can't take anything for granted." Kohli suggested India would field an unchanged squad with quick Bhuvneshwar Kumar continuing his recovery from a tight hamstring and Vijay Shankar retaining his place at number four. Mohammed Shami, replacing Kumar, has claimed eight wickets in two matches to present India with a pace bowling dilemma. "Shami, in the last year and a half, has come around amazingly well. I've never seen him fitter... he has that hunger within him, and he's bowling really, really well at the moment. "Bhuvi is recovering very fast. When he gets fit, it's going to be a bit of a headache for us to see what we're going to do."

Indian skipper Virat Kohli explains how he fakes being calm

Virat Kohli-led Team India will sport orange jerseys instead of the usual blue in their World Cup clash against England on Sunday at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

The image of the jersey, which is predominantly orange with a tinge of blue, was shared on the official Twitter handle of The Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) two days ahead of the match.&nbsp;

The need for an alternative jersey arose after International Cricket Council issued a guideline before the start of the Word Cup, requiring teams to have two different uniforms for all its televised tournaments except hosts England.

"For televised ICC events all participating teams will be required to provide for two different coloured kits, except for the host country who has a preference in the choice of colour and may, if it chooses to do so, provide only one coloured kit to be worn in all matches throughout the event. In advance of the event the teams will be notified which coloured kit will be worn in each match," the ICC had said in a release.&nbsp;

The concept of multiple jerseys has been inspired from club football in which players choose their colour on a home and away basis.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Team India will sport orange jerseys instead of the usual blue in their World Cup clash against England on Sunday at Edgbaston. The image of the jersey, which is predominantly orange with a tinge of blue, was shared on the official Twitter handle of The Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) two days ahead of the match.

Virat Kohli-led Team India will sport orange jerseys instead of the usual blue in their World Cup clash against England on Sunday at Edgbaston. The image of the jersey, which is predominantly orange with a tinge of blue, was shared on the official Twitter handle of The Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) two days ahead of the match. The need for an alternative jersey arose after International Cricket Council issued a guideline before the start of the Word Cup, requiring teams to have two different uniforms for all its televised tournaments except hosts England. "For televised ICC events all participating teams will be required to provide for two different coloured kits, except for the host country who has a preference in the choice of colour and may, if it chooses to do so, provide only one coloured kit to be worn in all matches throughout the event. In advance of the event the teams will be notified which coloured kit will be worn in each match," the ICC had said in a release. The concept of multiple jerseys has been inspired from club football in which players choose their colour on a home and away basis.

World Cup: Team India's alternate jersey unveiled

Captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;has sought to play down the hype surrounding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indian-team-attends-practice-session-ahead-of-crucial-pakistan-clash-227461">India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan</a>, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime".

The two Asian giants lock horns in Manchester on Sunday with more than a billion people expected to tune in for the most-anticipated match of the tournament.

Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far.

Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a>

Kohli&nbsp;said his team would focus on their strengths rather than worrying about the weaknesses of any opposition.

"We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other,"&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said at Old Trafford on Saturday.

"It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said.

Matches between the two countries, who currently only face each other in multi-nation tournaments, are always about more than just what happens on the pitch.&nbsp;

In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash</a>&nbsp;

"I think the best way to approach something like this, if one focuses too much on what's going on the outside, it's to understand that the game starts tomorrow at a certain time and it finishes at a certain time," said&nbsp;Kohli.

"So it's not going to last a lifetime for you, whether you do well or you don't," the captained reasoned with a blank expression.

He added, "From the fans' point of view, looking at the atmosphere and frenzy around the game, I wouldn't say it's easy to think like a player. For the players, it's very, very crucial to be absolutely professional."

The two teams have played each other in 131 one-day international games. Pakistan have a clear edge with 73 wins, despite their poor record against India at World Cups.

With the threat of rain looming over the match,&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said flexibility would be crucial both for the team's plans and the make-up of the side.

"We can't be rigid in our approach because, if the conditions are very different from what we played in the last game, then we'll have to think of different combinations, " he said.

"If the length of the game is going to be full and we expect the game to be 50 overs both sides, then we'll probably think of another combination, but we'll have to be flexible." 
&nbsp;

Captain Virat Kohli has sought to play down the hype surrounding India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime".

Captain Virat Kohli has sought to play down the hype surrounding India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime". The two Asian giants lock horns in Manchester on Sunday with more than a billion people expected to tune in for the most-anticipated match of the tournament. Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far. Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history Kohli said his team would focus on their strengths rather than worrying about the weaknesses of any opposition. "We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other," Kohli said at Old Trafford on Saturday. "It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said. Matches between the two countries, who currently only face each other in multi-nation tournaments, are always about more than just what happens on the pitch. In pics: Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash "I think the best way to approach something like this, if one focuses too much on what's going on the outside, it's to understand that the game starts tomorrow at a certain time and it finishes at a certain time," said Kohli. "So it's not going to last a lifetime for you, whether you do well or you don't," the captained reasoned with a blank expression. He added, "From the fans' point of view, looking at the atmosphere and frenzy around the game, I wouldn't say it's easy to think like a player. For the players, it's very, very crucial to be absolutely professional." The two teams have played each other in 131 one-day international games. Pakistan have a clear edge with 73 wins, despite their poor record against India at World Cups. With the threat of rain looming over the match, Kohli said flexibility would be crucial both for the team's plans and the make-up of the side. "We can't be rigid in our approach because, if the conditions are very different from what we played in the last game, then we'll have to think of different combinations, " he said. "If the length of the game is going to be full and we expect the game to be 50 overs both sides, then we'll probably think of another combination, but we'll have to be flexible."

India-Pakistan World Cup result will not be career-defining, says Virat Kohli

Indian skipper Virat Kohli addressed a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash</a> which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester.&nbsp;

"No one game is more special for us than the other. Our responsibility is to treat every game equally, regardless of the opposition. We are a top side in the world because of the cricket that we play," said Virat.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a>

"If we play well, we can beat anyone. Nothing changes according to the opposition. For the players, it is very important to be professional, be it any team you are up against," he further added.&nbsp;

India had never lost to Pakistan in 50-over World Cup history&nbsp;and will look to continue the trend in the ongoing edition.&nbsp;

India had not lost any game in the three matches played so far, the last match against New Zealand was got abandoned due to rain.

While Pakistan has won one match out of four they have played so far. They lost two contests and one was abandoned.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli addressed a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli addressed a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester. "No one game is more special for us than the other. Our responsibility is to treat every game equally, regardless of the opposition. We are a top side in the world because of the cricket that we play," said Virat. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history "If we play well, we can beat anyone. Nothing changes according to the opposition. For the players, it is very important to be professional, be it any team you are up against," he further added. India had never lost to Pakistan in 50-over World Cup history and will look to continue the trend in the ongoing edition. India had not lost any game in the three matches played so far, the last match against New Zealand was got abandoned due to rain. While Pakistan has won one match out of four they have played so far. They lost two contests and one was abandoned.

'If we play well, we can beat anyone,' says Virat Kohli ahead of India vs Pakistan clash

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-g20-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-expresses-concern-over-citizenship-by-investment-scheme-for-economic-offenders-225812">Disallow offenders to use investment schemes for citizenship: India at G20</a> 
 
In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakhstan-elects-new-leader-as-hundreds-arrested-in-protests-225813">Kazakhstan elects new leader as hundreds arrested in protests</a> 
 
The victory of career diplomat Kassym Jomart-Tokayev was never in doubt after he received the blessing of powerful Nazarbayev, who had led the Central Asian nation for the last three decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/booing-smith-not-acceptable-i-said-sorry-to-him-on-behalf-of-the-crowd-kohli-225807">Booing Smith not acceptable, I said sorry to him on behalf of the crowd: Kohli</a>

<a>Kohli said had apologised to Smith for the chants of "cheater" directed from the stands towards the former Australia captain.</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/major-fire-breaks-out-in-east-london-flats-225803">Major fire breaks out in east London flats</a> 
 
A fire broke out and set alight six floors of a residential block of flats in east London on Sunday evening , London Fire Brigade said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-under-control-west-bengal-government-answers-home-ministrys-advisory-on-violence-225809">Situation 'under control', West Bengal government answers Home Ministry's advisory on violence</a> 
 
West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that 'firm and appropriate actions' were initiated in case of a few 'stray post-poll clashes' in the state. 
&nbsp;

Disallow offenders to use investment schemes for citizenship: India at G20 In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices.

Disallow offenders to use investment schemes for citizenship: India at G20 In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices. Kazakhstan elects new leader as hundreds arrested in protests The victory of career diplomat Kassym Jomart-Tokayev was never in doubt after he received the blessing of powerful Nazarbayev, who had led the Central Asian nation for the last three decades. Booing Smith not acceptable, I said sorry to him on behalf of the crowd: Kohli Kohli said had apologised to Smith for the chants of "cheater" directed from the stands towards the former Australia captain. Major fire breaks out in east London flats A fire broke out and set alight six floors of a residential block of flats in east London on Sunday evening , London Fire Brigade said. Situation 'under control', West Bengal government answers Home Ministry's advisory on violence West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that 'firm and appropriate actions' were initiated in case of a few 'stray post-poll clashes' in the state.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India captain Virat Kohli insisted it was "not acceptable" for his side's fans to boo Steve Smith during the team's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-shines-as-india-beat-holders-australia-by-36-runs-225791">World Cup victory over Australia in London</a> on Sunday.

Both Smith and fellow Australia batsman David Warner have been on the receiving end of jeers from opposition fans at the World Cup following their return to the international arena after serving year-long bans for their respective roles during a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. &nbsp;

After India completed a 36-run win over the reigning champions, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-had-a-point-to-prove-against-australia-says-virat-kohli-225792">Kohli told reporters </a>he had apologised to Smith for the chants of "cheater" directed from the stands towards the former Australia captain.

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With India fans giving Steve Smith a tough time fielding in the deep, <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> suggested they applaud the Australian instead. 
 
Absolute class 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpiritOfCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpiritOfCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/mmkLoedxjr">pic.twitter.com/mmkLoedxjr</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1137777943667707907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Kohli in fact had tried to stop the taunts on the field by urging India supporters -- who dominated a capacity crowd at the Oval -- to clap, rather than boo Smith when the Australian was fielding on the boundary.&nbsp;

"Look I think what's happened has happened, long back. The guy is trying to play well for his side. It's not good to see someone down like that to be honest," Kohli said.

"We've had a few issues in the past, a few arguments on the field, but you don't want to see a guy feeling that every time he goes out to play."

Kohli had once stopped short of calling Smith a cheat after a Test match in Bangalore in 2017 when the then skipper looked up towards the dressing room for help during an umpire review -- something not permitted under the rules -- and called it a "brain fade".

The star batsman then insisted he would never be friends with the Australians again after winning a Test series marked by bad blood between the two teams but a different side to the Indian run machine, who made 82 in his side's total of 352 for five, was on show at the Oval.

"He (Smith) is coming back, he's playing hard and just getting on with it. There were a lot of Indian fans here and I just didn't want them to set a bad example," said Kohli.

"He didn't do anything to be booed, he was just playing cricket. If I was in a position where something had happened to me, where I had apologised, accepted it and then came back I wouldn't like it either.

"I just told him 'sorry on behalf of the crowd'. In my opinion I didn't think that was acceptable," he added.

Smith and Warner have both been in the runs since their returning and they each hit a fifty, albeit not as quickly as they would have liked, as Australia were dismissed for 316 to lose their first game of the tournament following two wins.

India's success was built on Shikhar Dhawan's 117 and his 127-run opening partnership with Rohit Sharma.

It was the duo's 16th century partnership in one-day internationals as they saw off the new-ball threat of Australian's Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.

Kohli rated the left-hand/right-hand combination of Dhawan and Sharma as "world-class" and sad the two batsmen were difficult to contain when in full flow.

"They both have a big-match temperament and we are lucky to have two such solid openers in our team who when they play well provide a lot of confidence to the dressing room," the captain said.

India captain Virat Kohli insisted it was "not acceptable" for his side's fans to boo Steve Smith during the team's World Cup victory over Australia in London on Sunday.

India captain Virat Kohli insisted it was "not acceptable" for his side's fans to boo Steve Smith during the team's World Cup victory over Australia in London on Sunday. Both Smith and fellow Australia batsman David Warner have been on the receiving end of jeers from opposition fans at the World Cup following their return to the international arena after serving year-long bans for their respective roles during a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. After India completed a 36-run win over the reigning champions, Kohli told reporters he had apologised to Smith for the chants of "cheater" directed from the stands towards the former Australia captain. With India fans giving Steve Smith a tough time fielding in the deep, @imVkohli suggested they applaud the Australian instead. Absolute class 👏 #SpiritOfCricket #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/mmkLoedxjr — ICC (@ICC) June 9, 2019 × Kohli in fact had tried to stop the taunts on the field by urging India supporters -- who dominated a capacity crowd at the Oval -- to clap, rather than boo Smith when the Australian was fielding on the boundary. "Look I think what's happened has happened, long back. The guy is trying to play well for his side. It's not good to see someone down like that to be honest," Kohli said. "We've had a few issues in the past, a few arguments on the field, but you don't want to see a guy feeling that every time he goes out to play." Kohli had once stopped short of calling Smith a cheat after a Test match in Bangalore in 2017 when the then skipper looked up towards the dressing room for help during an umpire review -- something not permitted under the rules -- and called it a "brain fade". The star batsman then insisted he would never be friends with the Australians again after winning a Test series marked by bad blood between the two teams but a different side to the Indian run machine, who made 82 in his side's total of 352 for five, was on show at the Oval. "He (Smith) is coming back, he's playing hard and just getting on with it. There were a lot of Indian fans here and I just didn't want them to set a bad example," said Kohli. "He didn't do anything to be booed, he was just playing cricket. If I was in a position where something had happened to me, where I had apologised, accepted it and then came back I wouldn't like it either. "I just told him 'sorry on behalf of the crowd'. In my opinion I didn't think that was acceptable," he added. Smith and Warner have both been in the runs since their returning and they each hit a fifty, albeit not as quickly as they would have liked, as Australia were dismissed for 316 to lose their first game of the tournament following two wins. India's success was built on Shikhar Dhawan's 117 and his 127-run opening partnership with Rohit Sharma. It was the duo's 16th century partnership in one-day internationals as they saw off the new-ball threat of Australian's Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Kohli rated the left-hand/right-hand combination of Dhawan and Sharma as "world-class" and sad the two batsmen were difficult to contain when in full flow. "They both have a big-match temperament and we are lucky to have two such solid openers in our team who when they play well provide a lot of confidence to the dressing room," the captain said.

Booing Smith not acceptable, I said sorry to him on behalf of the crowd: Kohli

India were dealt a major injury scare before their World Cup opener against South Africa on Wednesday when skipper Virat Kohli hurt his thumb <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indian-team-practice-ahead-of-their-campaign-opener-223511">during a training session</a> at the Ageas Bowl here.&nbsp;

Kohli hurt his right thumb during practice on Saturday, prompting physiotherapist Patrick Farhat to attend to the Indian skipper.

Farhat was first seen using magic spray on the injured finger and the applied tap on it.

Later Kohli was seen leaving the field with his thumb dipped in a glass of ice.

The extent of Kohli's injury is still unclear as the Indian team management is yet to come out with an official comment on the matter.

India, one of the favourites for the title, has been hit by injuries in the run up to the World Cup.&nbsp;

While all-rounder Vijay Shankar had to sit out of the warm-up game against New Zealand after hurting his elbow, Kedar Jadhav is still recovering from a shoulder injury he picked up during IPL and missed India's both warm-up games against the Kiwis and Bangladesh.

India were dealt a major injury scare before their World Cup opener against South Africa on Wednesday when skipper Virat Kohli hurt his thumb during a training session at the Ageas Bowl here.

India were dealt a major injury scare before their World Cup opener against South Africa on Wednesday when skipper Virat Kohli hurt his thumb during a training session at the Ageas Bowl here. Kohli hurt his right thumb during practice on Saturday, prompting physiotherapist Patrick Farhat to attend to the Indian skipper. Farhat was first seen using magic spray on the injured finger and the applied tap on it. Later Kohli was seen leaving the field with his thumb dipped in a glass of ice. The extent of Kohli's injury is still unclear as the Indian team management is yet to come out with an official comment on the matter. India, one of the favourites for the title, has been hit by injuries in the run up to the World Cup. While all-rounder Vijay Shankar had to sit out of the warm-up game against New Zealand after hurting his elbow, Kedar Jadhav is still recovering from a shoulder injury he picked up during IPL and missed India's both warm-up games against the Kiwis and Bangladesh.

Injury scare for India, skipper Virat Kohli hurts thumb during training

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

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

The story of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-we-cant-give-excuses-everyday-virat-kohli-after-bangalores-6th-defeat-in-a-row-208599">Virat Kohli</a>-led Bangalore team has been quite disappointing so far in the twelfth edition of Indian Premier League as team's woeful run continues when they suffered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-virat-kohlis-bangalore-lose-sixth-match-in-a-row-delhi-win-by-4-wickets-208594">sixth straight defeat against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi</a> at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;

Poor fielding and conceding too many runs in the death overs are highlighted reasons for the team's consecutive losses. And talking analytically, Virat-led team has dropped 15 catches so far in the ongoing season.&nbsp;

Talking about poor fielding and missed chances, Kohli hinted pressure is playing in players' mind.&nbsp;

"When the mind is cluttered, you wouldn't be able to focus on the chances that come your way. When you have clarity, you can take your chances better. Shreyas made 65, he was dropped on eight. You never know, could've come into the game that time."&nbsp;

Bangalore also matched Delhi's 2013 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-bangalore-set-record-one-they-never-wanted-to-208612">record for maximum consecutive losses</a> at the beginning of an IPL season.&nbsp;

Like Delhi in 2013, Bangalore also faced sixth consecutive defeats in the start of a season.&nbsp;

Looking forward, Kohli said his side needs to needs relax and accept whatever comes "in front of us".&nbsp;

"There's nothing more you can tell the team. We've asked the boys to take responsibility. It hasn't happened so far, and that's the reality. Need to play expressive cricket.&nbsp;

Personally, not trying to control anything. After a while, it's about the skill. We want to enjoy as a team, otherwise we won't be able to play any good cricket," he said.&nbsp;

The story of Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team has been quite disappointing so far in the twelfth edition of Indian Premier League as team's woeful run continues when they suffered sixth straight defeat against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday.

The story of Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team has been quite disappointing so far in the twelfth edition of Indian Premier League as team's woeful run continues when they suffered sixth straight defeat against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. Poor fielding and conceding too many runs in the death overs are highlighted reasons for the team's consecutive losses. And talking analytically, Virat-led team has dropped 15 catches so far in the ongoing season. Talking about poor fielding and missed chances, Kohli hinted pressure is playing in players' mind. "When the mind is cluttered, you wouldn't be able to focus on the chances that come your way. When you have clarity, you can take your chances better. Shreyas made 65, he was dropped on eight. You never know, could've come into the game that time." Bangalore also matched Delhi's 2013 record for maximum consecutive losses at the beginning of an IPL season. Like Delhi in 2013, Bangalore also faced sixth consecutive defeats in the start of a season. Looking forward, Kohli said his side needs to needs relax and accept whatever comes "in front of us". "There's nothing more you can tell the team. We've asked the boys to take responsibility. It hasn't happened so far, and that's the reality. Need to play expressive cricket. Personally, not trying to control anything. After a while, it's about the skill. We want to enjoy as a team, otherwise we won't be able to play any good cricket," he said.

IPL 2019: Guess how many catches Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team dropped so far this season

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-we-cant-give-excuses-everyday-virat-kohli-after-bangalores-6th-defeat-in-a-row-208599">Virat Kohli-led Bangalore</a> team has created an unwanted record of most consecutive defeats in Indian Premier League. Now, the Bangalore team have suffered seven consecutive defeats from May 19, 2018, to April 7, 2019.&nbsp;

This is not something new for Virat-led team as in 2008, Bangalore registered six back-to-back defeats and in 2017, they faced five consecutive losses.&nbsp;

In the ongoing season, Bangalore's woeful run continues when they suffered sixth straight defeat against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;

Bangalore also matched Delhi's 2013 record for maximum consecutive losses at the beginning of an IPL season.&nbsp;

Like Delhi in 2013, Bangalore also faced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-virat-kohlis-bangalore-lose-sixth-match-in-a-row-delhi-win-by-4-wickets-208594">sixth consecutive defeats</a> in the start of a season.&nbsp;

Bangalore batsmen struggled on a tough wicket after being invited to bat first and could only manage 149 for 8 in the stipulated 20 overs.&nbsp;

While, Iyer played a captain's knock, making a 50-ball 67 to guide Delhi to a comfortable win, bringing their IPL campaign back on track.&nbsp;

Iyer anchored the chase with some crucial partnerships as Delhi overhauled the target with 10 balls to spare.&nbsp;

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A story of frustration and cluelessness from the Green outfit but satisfaction and hope from the Blue 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/tBsYuyysud">pic.twitter.com/tBsYuyysud</a>
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Iyer smashed eight fours and two sixes in his 50-ball innings which helped Delhi grab the fifth place in the points table, snapping a two-match losing streak where they lost to Punjab and Hyderabad in the last two games.

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team has created an unwanted record of most consecutive defeats in Indian Premier League. Now, the Bangalore team have suffered seven consecutive defeats from May 19, 2018, to April 7, 2019.

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team has created an unwanted record of most consecutive defeats in Indian Premier League. Now, the Bangalore team have suffered seven consecutive defeats from May 19, 2018, to April 7, 2019. This is not something new for Virat-led team as in 2008, Bangalore registered six back-to-back defeats and in 2017, they faced five consecutive losses. In the ongoing season, Bangalore's woeful run continues when they suffered sixth straight defeat against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. Bangalore also matched Delhi's 2013 record for maximum consecutive losses at the beginning of an IPL season. Like Delhi in 2013, Bangalore also faced sixth consecutive defeats in the start of a season. Bangalore batsmen struggled on a tough wicket after being invited to bat first and could only manage 149 for 8 in the stipulated 20 overs. While, Iyer played a captain's knock, making a 50-ball 67 to guide Delhi to a comfortable win, bringing their IPL campaign back on track. Iyer anchored the chase with some crucial partnerships as Delhi overhauled the target with 10 balls to spare. A story of frustration and cluelessness from the Green outfit but satisfaction and hope from the Blue 🙌#RCBvDC #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/tBsYuyysud — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 7, 2019 × Iyer smashed eight fours and two sixes in his 50-ball innings which helped Delhi grab the fifth place in the points table, snapping a two-match losing streak where they lost to Punjab and Hyderabad in the last two games.

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore set record (not one they wanted to)

India's pacer Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah is known for his&nbsp;efficient bowling in the death overs but this time he stunned the spectators with his bat by hitting a six on the last ball of India's innings against Australia in fourth ODI in Mohali.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli celebrated Bumrah's last-ball sixer in the dressing room of Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;jumped off from his seat and applauded the shot with the teammates.&nbsp;Even Bumrah couldn't believe that he has hit a six against the opposition's best bowler.&nbsp;

Australian pacer Pat Cummins, who was bowling the last over, took a wicket on the second last ball that put pacer Bumrah on the crease.&nbsp;

Bumrah connected his bat well with the ball and swung it enough to send the&nbsp;ball over&nbsp;boundary rope on long-on.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Whatta a shot. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> enjoyed a lot. He was jumping with jot. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bumrah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bumrah</a> <a href="https://t.co/ajd7vZmaP0">pic.twitter.com/ajd7vZmaP0</a>
— Jaydeepsinh Solanki (@JaydeepsinhSo7) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaydeepsinhSo7/status/1104720099619987456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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That moment when <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> hits the last ball for a maximum 😅😅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/e6iOHorg8N">pic.twitter.com/e6iOHorg8N</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1104710330976894978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Opener Shikhar Dhawan struck a career-best 143 to guide India to 358 for nine in their bid to clinch the series in the fourth one-day international against Australia on Sunday.&nbsp;

The hosts, who lead the five-match series 2-1, rode on a 193-run opening stand between Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who made 95, to put up a challenging total after electing to bat in Mohali.&nbsp;

Fast bowler Pat Cummins returned his best-ever ODI figures of 5-70 in 10 overs.&nbsp;

India's pacer Jasprit Bumrah is known for his efficient bowling in the death overs but this time he stunned the spectators with his bat by hitting a six on the last ball of India's innings against Australia in fourth ODI in Mohali.

India's pacer Jasprit Bumrah is known for his efficient bowling in the death overs but this time he stunned the spectators with his bat by hitting a six on the last ball of India's innings against Australia in fourth ODI in Mohali. Indian skipper Virat Kohli celebrated Bumrah's last-ball sixer in the dressing room of Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium. He jumped off from his seat and applauded the shot with the teammates. Even Bumrah couldn't believe that he has hit a six against the opposition's best bowler. Australian pacer Pat Cummins, who was bowling the last over, took a wicket on the second last ball that put pacer Bumrah on the crease. Bumrah connected his bat well with the ball and swung it enough to send the ball over boundary rope on long-on. Watch the video: Whatta a shot. #ViratKohli enjoyed a lot. He was jumping with jot. #bumrah pic.twitter.com/ajd7vZmaP0 — Jaydeepsinh Solanki (@JaydeepsinhSo7) March 10, 2019 × That moment when @Jaspritbumrah93 hits the last ball for a maximum 😅😅#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/e6iOHorg8N — BCCI (@BCCI) March 10, 2019 × Opener Shikhar Dhawan struck a career-best 143 to guide India to 358 for nine in their bid to clinch the series in the fourth one-day international against Australia on Sunday. The hosts, who lead the five-match series 2-1, rode on a 193-run opening stand between Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who made 95, to put up a challenging total after electing to bat in Mohali. Fast bowler Pat Cummins returned his best-ever ODI figures of 5-70 in 10 overs.

Watch: Jasprit Bumrah hits sixer, Virat Kohli dances in dressing room

Laxman: Kohli can leave legacy with Aus series win

Ahead of the crucial T20 match, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australians-cannot-play-like-pussycats-against-kohli-kim-hughes-178453">India captain Virat Kohli insisted Australia </a>have the quality to upset the odds in their Twenty20 series and said his team will be focusing on the "little things" to come out on top.

The visitors open their tour with the first of three T20s in Brisbane today ahead of four Tests and three one-dayers that will keep them in Australia until late January.

In the short format, they have been by far the better team in recent times. Australia have also been weakened by ball-tampering bans to key batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner.

"We definitely have a very strong side," said Kohli, who last month became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in one-day internationals, breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record.

"When we step on the field we have 11 individuals striving for excellence, they want to be the best they can," he said, adding,"those are the dynamics that have allowed us to play the cricket that we are and hopefully we can build on that."

While Kohli is a dangerman for India, so are KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, who has smashed two centuries in four T20 innings since July. They both sit above their captain on the T20 batting rankings.

Despite Australia being without Smith and Warner - who will need to serve their full 12-month bans for ball-tampering, after Cricket Australia Tuesday ruled out any reductions on Tuesday - Kohli is adamant the hosts still pose a big threat.

"There's no denying the quality they have in their side," he said.&nbsp;

"They still have world class cricketers, though missing out on two of the world's best batsmen in not ideal for any team," he said.

"But the guys they have, especially in the limited-overs game, can do damage at any point in time. You can never underestimate any side. We're won't be taking anything for granted."

India arrived in Australia on the back of a home thrashing of the West Indies, but their form traditionally is more fragile on the road.

Kohli said they planned to "do the little things right so we can win more situations than the opposition".

"We definitely believe we have the quality to win, but it will boil down to how we think in each moment in every game we play."

Australia were beaten in both white-ball formats by South Africa in recent weeks, but skipper Aaron Finch is confident they can turn their fortunes around with a more assertive approach.

"It's going to be a great opportunity for us to come out and express ourselves, play some great attacking cricket, take the game on and really try and take it to India," he said Tuesday.

And Finch believes they are close to winning their first series since new coach Justin Langer took over, after Darren Lehmann stepped down following the tampering row.

"India are in great form but we feel as though we've been building really nicely without getting results going our way so far," he added.

Australia squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Lynn, Ben McDermott, Glenn Maxwell, D'Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa.

India squad: Virat Kohli (capt), Khaleel Ahmed, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Manish Pandey, Krunal Pandya, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Umesh Yadav. 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the crucial T20 match, India captain Virat Kohli insisted Australia have the quality to upset the odds in their Twenty20 series and said his team will be focusing on the "little things" to come out on top.

Ahead of the crucial T20 match, India captain Virat Kohli insisted Australia have the quality to upset the odds in their Twenty20 series and said his team will be focusing on the "little things" to come out on top. The visitors open their tour with the first of three T20s in Brisbane today ahead of four Tests and three one-dayers that will keep them in Australia until late January. In the short format, they have been by far the better team in recent times. Australia have also been weakened by ball-tampering bans to key batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner. "We definitely have a very strong side," said Kohli, who last month became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in one-day internationals, breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record. "When we step on the field we have 11 individuals striving for excellence, they want to be the best they can," he said, adding,"those are the dynamics that have allowed us to play the cricket that we are and hopefully we can build on that." While Kohli is a dangerman for India, so are KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, who has smashed two centuries in four T20 innings since July. They both sit above their captain on the T20 batting rankings. Despite Australia being without Smith and Warner - who will need to serve their full 12-month bans for ball-tampering, after Cricket Australia Tuesday ruled out any reductions on Tuesday - Kohli is adamant the hosts still pose a big threat. "There's no denying the quality they have in their side," he said. "They still have world class cricketers, though missing out on two of the world's best batsmen in not ideal for any team," he said. "But the guys they have, especially in the limited-overs game, can do damage at any point in time. You can never underestimate any side. We're won't be taking anything for granted." India arrived in Australia on the back of a home thrashing of the West Indies, but their form traditionally is more fragile on the road. Kohli said they planned to "do the little things right so we can win more situations than the opposition". "We definitely believe we have the quality to win, but it will boil down to how we think in each moment in every game we play." Australia were beaten in both white-ball formats by South Africa in recent weeks, but skipper Aaron Finch is confident they can turn their fortunes around with a more assertive approach. "It's going to be a great opportunity for us to come out and express ourselves, play some great attacking cricket, take the game on and really try and take it to India," he said Tuesday. And Finch believes they are close to winning their first series since new coach Justin Langer took over, after Darren Lehmann stepped down following the tampering row. "India are in great form but we feel as though we've been building really nicely without getting results going our way so far," he added. Australia squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Lynn, Ben McDermott, Glenn Maxwell, D'Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa. India squad: Virat Kohli (capt), Khaleel Ahmed, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Manish Pandey, Krunal Pandya, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Umesh Yadav.

Won't take anything for granted, says Kohli ahead of T20 match against Australia

30 unique facts about Virat Kohli on his 30th birthday

Virat Kohli created a record, yet again, as he became the first Indian batsman to score three consecutive centuries in the one-day format.

Kohli, who is also the&nbsp;fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs, slammed 38th one-day century of his career.

Virat scored centuries in previous two matches of the same series. He scored 140 in the first ODI and an unbeaten 157 in the second. After today's ton, he became the first Indian player score three consecutive ODI centuries.

KC Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), Zaheer Abbas (Pakistan), Saeed Anwar (Pakistan), HH Gibbs (South Africa), AB de Villiers (South Africa), Q de Kock (South Africa), LRPL Taylor (New Zealand), Babar Azam (Pakistan) and JM Bairstow (England) are other players who have achieved&nbsp;same feat.

Virat completed 100 runs&nbsp;with an easy single but did not celebrate his achievement. Blank-faced Kohli just raised his bat and signalled the teammates to not celebrate.&nbsp;

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Virat Kohli with his third ODI hundred in a row! 
 
What a player he is, he's scored 397 runs this series and has only been dismissed once. 
 
India are 202/5 and need another 82 to win.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 3rd ODI live ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN">https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN</a> <a href="https://t.co/q38zQe2Wgk">pic.twitter.com/q38zQe2Wgk</a>
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Kohli has made one thing very clear that India is preparing for the ICC World Cup 2019 when he said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible," after winning today's toss.

"It's a great honour for me to represent my country and even after playing 10 years, I don't feel like I am entitled to anything here. You still have to work hard for every run that you score at the international level," Kohli told BCCI.TV after reaching 10k milestone.

Virat Kohli created a record, yet again, as he became the first Indian batsman to score three consecutive centuries in the one-day format. Kohli, who is also the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs, slammed 38th one-day century of his career.

Virat Kohli created a record, yet again, as he became the first Indian batsman to score three consecutive centuries in the one-day format. Kohli, who is also the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs, slammed 38th one-day century of his career. Virat scored centuries in previous two matches of the same series. He scored 140 in the first ODI and an unbeaten 157 in the second. After today's ton, he became the first Indian player score three consecutive ODI centuries. KC Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), Zaheer Abbas (Pakistan), Saeed Anwar (Pakistan), HH Gibbs (South Africa), AB de Villiers (South Africa), Q de Kock (South Africa), LRPL Taylor (New Zealand), Babar Azam (Pakistan) and JM Bairstow (England) are other players who have achieved same feat. Virat completed 100 runs with an easy single but did not celebrate his achievement. Blank-faced Kohli just raised his bat and signalled the teammates to not celebrate. Virat Kohli with his third ODI hundred in a row! What a player he is, he's scored 397 runs this series and has only been dismissed once. India are 202/5 and need another 82 to win.#INDvWI 3rd ODI live ⬇️https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN pic.twitter.com/q38zQe2Wgk — ICC (@ICC) October 27, 2018 × Kohli has made one thing very clear that India is preparing for the ICC World Cup 2019 when he said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible," after winning today's toss. "It's a great honour for me to represent my country and even after playing 10 years, I don't feel like I am entitled to anything here. You still have to work hard for every run that you score at the international level," Kohli told BCCI.TV after reaching 10k milestone.

Virat Kohli becomes first Indian batsman to score 3 consecutive ODI centuries

West Indies restricted India at 240 to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-3rd-odi-virat-kohli-completes-half-century-india-are-119-2-after-23-overs-173870">win the third one-day</a> clash by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

Virat Kohli, who top-scored with 107, said that it is "embarrassing" to talk about records when the team doesn't win the match.

Skipper Kohli, yet again, created a record as he became the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-batsman-to-score-3-consecutive-centuries-173880">first Indian batsman to score three consecutive centuries</a> in the one-day format.

After losing the match, Kohli said, "It is a bit embarrassing when people ask you the same thing again and again," when he asked about his record making streak.

Kohli, who is also the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs, slammed 38th one-day century of his career.

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Virat Kohli with his third ODI hundred in a row! 
 
What a player he is, he's scored 397 runs this series and has only been dismissed once. 
 
India are 202/5 and need another 82 to win.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 3rd ODI live ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN">https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN</a> <a href="https://t.co/q38zQe2Wgk">pic.twitter.com/q38zQe2Wgk</a>
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💯 No. 38 for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> 👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/sRu8KMg4Eh">pic.twitter.com/sRu8KMg4Eh</a>
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Ahead of the match, during the toss, Kohli said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible."

His statement proves that India is preparing for the ICC World Cup 2019 which is scheduled to take place in England.

West Indies restricted India at 240 to win the third one-day clash by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Virat Kohli, who top-scored with 107, said that it is "embarrassing" to talk about records when the team doesn't win the match.

West Indies restricted India at 240 to win the third one-day clash by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Virat Kohli, who top-scored with 107, said that it is "embarrassing" to talk about records when the team doesn't win the match. Skipper Kohli, yet again, created a record as he became the first Indian batsman to score three consecutive centuries in the one-day format. After losing the match, Kohli said, "It is a bit embarrassing when people ask you the same thing again and again," when he asked about his record making streak. Kohli, who is also the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs, slammed 38th one-day century of his career. Virat Kohli with his third ODI hundred in a row! What a player he is, he's scored 397 runs this series and has only been dismissed once. India are 202/5 and need another 82 to win.#INDvWI 3rd ODI live ⬇️https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN pic.twitter.com/q38zQe2Wgk — ICC (@ICC) October 27, 2018 × 💯 No. 38 for @imVkohli 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/sRu8KMg4Eh — BCCI (@BCCI) October 27, 2018 × Ahead of the match, during the toss, Kohli said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible." His statement proves that India is preparing for the ICC World Cup 2019 which is scheduled to take place in England.

Virat Kohli: Don't want to talk about records, it's 'embarrassing'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-claims-to-have-audio-video-recordings-to-prove-journalist-jamal-khashoggis-murder-171096">Turkey claims to have audio, video recordings to prove Khashoggi's murder: Report</a>

Turkey claims that it has audio and video recordings that prove the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi took place inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul earlier this month. A media report quoted a source as saying that the evidence Turkey has, shows signs of assault and struggle inside the consulate.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/housefull-4-sajid-khan-steps-down-as-director-akshay-kumar-says-wont-work-with-proven-offenders-171068">Akshay Kumar says 'will not work with proven offenders', Sajid Khan steps down as 'Housefull 4' director</a>

Upcoming Bollywood film ‘Housefull 4’ finds itself in the middle of #MeToo controversy as director Sajid Khan steps down from his post in the wake of several sexual assault allegations levied against him.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-consolidates-top-position-in-test-rankings-171094">Kohli consolidates top position in ICC Test rankings, Windies' Roston Chase moves up</a>

India captain Virat Kohli, who struck 139 in India's massive win in the first Test against the West Indies, on Friday consolidated his position at the top of the Test rankings, moving within one point of his highest rating point of 937.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-longest-flight-departs-singapore-for-new-york-171118">Jetliner lands in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-longest-flight-departs-singapore-for-new-york-171118">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-longest-flight-departs-singapore-for-new-york-171118"> after world's longest flight</a>

The world's longest commercial flight arrived in New York on Friday after a nearly 18-hour trip from Singapore, completing the world's longest commercial flight.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-high-court-judge-sacked-over-remarks-against-isi-171141">Pak High Court judge sacked over remarks against ISI</a>

A senior Pakistani judge, who was in line to become the chief justice of the Islamabad High Court next month, was sacked for his controversial statement that the country's powerful spy agency ISI was manipulating judicial proceedings to get favourable decisions.

Turkey claims to have audio, video recordings to prove Khashoggi's murder: Report Turkey claims that it has audio and video recordings that prove the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi took place inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul earlier this month.

Turkey claims to have audio, video recordings to prove Khashoggi's murder: Report Turkey claims that it has audio and video recordings that prove the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi took place inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul earlier this month. A media report quoted a source as saying that the evidence Turkey has, shows signs of assault and struggle inside the consulate. Akshay Kumar says 'will not work with proven offenders', Sajid Khan steps down as 'Housefull 4' director Upcoming Bollywood film ‘Housefull 4’ finds itself in the middle of #MeToo controversy as director Sajid Khan steps down from his post in the wake of several sexual assault allegations levied against him. Kohli consolidates top position in ICC Test rankings, Windies' Roston Chase moves up India captain Virat Kohli, who struck 139 in India's massive win in the first Test against the West Indies, on Friday consolidated his position at the top of the Test rankings, moving within one point of his highest rating point of 937. Jetliner lands in US after world's longest flight The world's longest commercial flight arrived in New York on Friday after a nearly 18-hour trip from Singapore, completing the world's longest commercial flight. Pak High Court judge sacked over remarks against ISI A senior Pakistani judge, who was in line to become the chief justice of the Islamabad High Court next month, was sacked for his controversial statement that the country's powerful spy agency ISI was manipulating judicial proceedings to get favourable decisions.

Skipper Virat Kohli along with senior most player Mahendra Singh Dhoni was prominent among the host of players rested for the T20 tri-series in Sri Lanka, starting March 6.

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Opener Rohit Sharma will lead a young Indian side in Twenty20 tri-series.

Kohli missed Saturday&#39;s final Twenty20 against South Africa in Cape Town with a stiff back as India won the three-match series 2-1 which followed their 5-1 triumph in the one-dayers against the Proteas.

Rohit led India during the final T20I against South Africa in Cape Town which his side won, and also captained India in the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka in December, both of which India won.

India have a long season ahead starting with the IPL before the team embarks on a long sojourn of England followed by a tour Down Under in December.

Former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was also rested, which allowed Delhi`s Rishabh Pant to join the squad as the second wicketkeeper, along with Dinesh Karthik.

The selectors also decided to leave out the pace duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah and named a largely young 15-member squad for the Nidahas Trophy, which also features Bangladesh, beginning on March 6 in Colombo.

&quot;We`ve kept in mind the workload and upcoming schedule while finalising the team for Nidahas Trophy,&quot; selection committee chairman MSK Prasad said in a statement.

&quot;The high-performance team has suggested that adequate rest should be given to our fast bowlers to help improve athletic performance, maximise rest and prevent injury.&quot;

Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya were also allowed a break following the tour of South Africa.

India squad: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shikhar Dhawan (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik (wicketkeeper), Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Vijay Shankar, Shardul Thakur, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammad Siraj and Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper)

(With inputs from Agencies)

Rohit Sharma will lead India's 15-member squad in the Nidahas Trophy T20I tri-series starting March 6 in Sri Lanka.

Skipper Virat Kohli along with senior most player Mahendra Singh Dhoni was prominent among the host of players rested for the T20 tri-series in Sri Lanka, starting March 6. × Opener Rohit Sharma will lead a young Indian side in Twenty20 tri-series. Kohli missed Saturday's final Twenty20 against South Africa in Cape Town with a stiff back as India won the three-match series 2-1 which followed their 5-1 triumph in the one-dayers against the Proteas. Rohit led India during the final T20I against South Africa in Cape Town which his side won, and also captained India in the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka in December, both of which India won. India have a long season ahead starting with the IPL before the team embarks on a long sojourn of England followed by a tour Down Under in December. Former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was also rested, which allowed Delhi`s Rishabh Pant to join the squad as the second wicketkeeper, along with Dinesh Karthik. The selectors also decided to leave out the pace duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah and named a largely young 15-member squad for the Nidahas Trophy, which also features Bangladesh, beginning on March 6 in Colombo. "We`ve kept in mind the workload and upcoming schedule while finalising the team for Nidahas Trophy," selection committee chairman MSK Prasad said in a statement. "The high-performance team has suggested that adequate rest should be given to our fast bowlers to help improve athletic performance, maximise rest and prevent injury." Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya were also allowed a break following the tour of South Africa. India squad: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shikhar Dhawan (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik (wicketkeeper), Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Vijay Shankar, Shardul Thakur, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammad Siraj and Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper) (With inputs from Agencies)

Nidahas Trophy: Kohli, Dhoni rested as India select young squad for T20 tri-series in Sri Lanka

The 11th season of the much-awaited Indian Premier League will begin on 6th April 2018. &nbsp;

IPL Commissioner Rajiv Shukla announced the news on Monday evening, saying the opening ceremony of the tournament will take place on April 6 in Mumbai while the first match of the new season will be played at the same venue on April 7.&nbsp;

He further informed that the tournament will continue till May 27 with Mumbai once again hosting the final match.&nbsp;

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IPL 11 to begin on 6th April 2018 with opening ceremony in Mumbai and first match on 7th April in Mumbai,the final on 27th May will also be in Mumbai: IPL Commissioner Rajiv Shukla <a href="https://t.co/l6qYDpAZLd">pic.twitter.com/l6qYDpAZLd</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/955417838864379904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Similiar to the previous edition, a total of eight teams will participate in the cash-rich league.&nbsp;

However, last year&rsquo;s finalists Rising Pune Supergiants and Gujarat Lions will be replaced by Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings, as the two teams were banned for two years due to their involvement in match-fixing.&nbsp;

The IPL 2018 auction will take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28 where a total of 578 players will go under the hammer.

A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh, Ajinkya Rahane, mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav and openers KL Rahul and Murali Vijay will be on the franchises&rsquo; radar.

The list also includes the overseas players, including Glenn Maxwell, Chris Gayle, Shane Watson, Rashid Khan and Eoin Morgan.&nbsp;

In the 10th season, Mumbai Indians led by Rohit Sharma defeated Pune to lift the IPL trophy for the third time.

A total of eight teams will participate in the cash-rich league

The 11th season of the much-awaited Indian Premier League will begin on 6th April 2018. IPL Commissioner Rajiv Shukla announced the news on Monday evening, saying the opening ceremony of the tournament will take place on April 6 in Mumbai while the first match of the new season will be played at the same venue on April 7. He further informed that the tournament will continue till May 27 with Mumbai once again hosting the final match. IPL 11 to begin on 6th April 2018 with opening ceremony in Mumbai and first match on 7th April in Mumbai,the final on 27th May will also be in Mumbai: IPL Commissioner Rajiv Shukla pic.twitter.com/l6qYDpAZLd — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2018 × Similiar to the previous edition, a total of eight teams will participate in the cash-rich league. However, last year’s finalists Rising Pune Supergiants and Gujarat Lions will be replaced by Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings, as the two teams were banned for two years due to their involvement in match-fixing. The IPL 2018 auction will take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28 where a total of 578 players will go under the hammer. A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh, Ajinkya Rahane, mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav and openers KL Rahul and Murali Vijay will be on the franchises’ radar. The list also includes the overseas players, including Glenn Maxwell, Chris Gayle, Shane Watson, Rashid Khan and Eoin Morgan. In the 10th season, Mumbai Indians led by Rohit Sharma defeated Pune to lift the IPL trophy for the third time.

IPL XI to begin on April 6, final to be played on May 27

Captain Virat Kohli made a mockery of a sub-par Sri Lanka in the company of centurion Murali Vijay as India raced to 245 for two at tea on the first day of the third and final cricket Test.

Kohli (94 batting), who has taken his batting to an altogether different level is inching towards his 20th Test hundred.&nbsp;The skipper made it look like a knocking session against a bowling attack, which at times looked inferior to a middle-run first-class side playing Ranji Trophy.

Starting the post-lunch session at 17 and his partner Vijay on 57, by the tea break, it was the skipper batting on 94 and Vijay on 101.

Together they added 167 runs in 36.4 overs for the third wicket during another listless session for the visiting side.

The gulf between the two sides was more evident as Kohli at times merely pushed the balls through the gaps and fetched boundaries at will.

None of the Sri Lankan bowlers was even capable of bowling to the set field as Vijay hit nine boundaries in 170 balls and Kohli 14 off 101 deliveries.

The Lankan attack&#39;s plight could be gauged by the fact that they were hit for 31 boundaries in just two sessions.

Pacer Lahiru Gamage (1/45) would provide half-volleys on the off-stump keeping the cover area vacant and the skipper would gleefully punch it through the region. When the off-side cordon was plugged, Gamage would bowl on the legs for him to tickle to fine leg boundary. With his military medium pace, when he tried to bounce Kohli, the skipper rocked back and pulled him through mid-wicket.

Off-spinner Dilruwan Perera (1/73) was given a five- pronged leg-side field expecting him to bowl the classical off-breaks. He bowled straight with no protection on the off- side.

Kohli used his supple wrists to get a boundary through the cover region and then hit a late cut for good measure.

Chinaman Lakshan Sandakan (1/70) couldn&#39;t find his length as he was easily negotiated by Kohli and Vijay.

Kohli&#39;s career-fastest Test half-century came off 52 balls and in no time he matched Vijay&#39;s score with both racing towards three-figure mark.

Vijay reached his personal landmark - 11th in longest version with a back-foot cover drive off chinaman Lakshan Sandakan. He did a little celebratory jig after that.

While the home team scored runs at a fast clip, both Shikhar Dhawan (23) and Cheteshwar Pujara (23) would certainly be lamenting the missed chance on one of the flattest decks on offer.

Earlier, Sri Lankan skipper Dinesh Chandimal was spot on in his assessment of the track as it was another typical low bounce batting paradise at Kotla, where Vijay made merry from the word go after Kohli rightly opted to bat.

Vijay started with a streaky four past gully off Suranga Lakmal followed by one off his hips. In the next over from Lahiru Gamage, there was a firm jab past the bowler that went to the boundary. Vijay hit seven boundaries during that first session.

Dhawan started with a cover drive and hit three more boundaries before he top-edged a sweep shot off Perera to be caught at deep backward square leg by Lakmal, who lost his footwear in the process. This was Dilruwan?s 100th Test wicket.

Pujara was as watchful as he had been all these years before unleashing his range of strokes with the visiting team&#39;s bowling attack looking sub-standard.

However, he fell into a trap when Chandimal deployed a leg slip for Pujara and Gamage fired one into his body. Pujara tried to whip it off his hips but Sadeera Samarawickrama was positioned exactly for that catch.

However, there was no stopping Vijay, who treated all bowlers with equal disdain. He hit a flowing cover drive off Gamage and then flicked him through the vacant mid-wicket region for another boundary.

Starting the post-lunch session at 17 and his partner Vijay on 57, by the tea break, it was the Kohli batting on 94 and Vijay on 101

Captain Virat Kohli made a mockery of a sub-par Sri Lanka in the company of centurion Murali Vijay as India raced to 245 for two at tea on the first day of the third and final cricket Test. Kohli (94 batting), who has taken his batting to an altogether different level is inching towards his 20th Test hundred. The skipper made it look like a knocking session against a bowling attack, which at times looked inferior to a middle-run first-class side playing Ranji Trophy. Starting the post-lunch session at 17 and his partner Vijay on 57, by the tea break, it was the skipper batting on 94 and Vijay on 101. Together they added 167 runs in 36.4 overs for the third wicket during another listless session for the visiting side. The gulf between the two sides was more evident as Kohli at times merely pushed the balls through the gaps and fetched boundaries at will. None of the Sri Lankan bowlers was even capable of bowling to the set field as Vijay hit nine boundaries in 170 balls and Kohli 14 off 101 deliveries. The Lankan attack's plight could be gauged by the fact that they were hit for 31 boundaries in just two sessions. Pacer Lahiru Gamage (1/45) would provide half-volleys on the off-stump keeping the cover area vacant and the skipper would gleefully punch it through the region. When the off-side cordon was plugged, Gamage would bowl on the legs for him to tickle to fine leg boundary. With his military medium pace, when he tried to bounce Kohli, the skipper rocked back and pulled him through mid-wicket. Off-spinner Dilruwan Perera (1/73) was given a five- pronged leg-side field expecting him to bowl the classical off-breaks. He bowled straight with no protection on the off- side. Kohli used his supple wrists to get a boundary through the cover region and then hit a late cut for good measure. Chinaman Lakshan Sandakan (1/70) couldn't find his length as he was easily negotiated by Kohli and Vijay. Kohli's career-fastest Test half-century came off 52 balls and in no time he matched Vijay's score with both racing towards three-figure mark. Vijay reached his personal landmark - 11th in longest version with a back-foot cover drive off chinaman Lakshan Sandakan. He did a little celebratory jig after that. While the home team scored runs at a fast clip, both Shikhar Dhawan (23) and Cheteshwar Pujara (23) would certainly be lamenting the missed chance on one of the flattest decks on offer. Earlier, Sri Lankan skipper Dinesh Chandimal was spot on in his assessment of the track as it was another typical low bounce batting paradise at Kotla, where Vijay made merry from the word go after Kohli rightly opted to bat. Vijay started with a streaky four past gully off Suranga Lakmal followed by one off his hips. In the next over from Lahiru Gamage, there was a firm jab past the bowler that went to the boundary. Vijay hit seven boundaries during that first session. Dhawan started with a cover drive and hit three more boundaries before he top-edged a sweep shot off Perera to be caught at deep backward square leg by Lakmal, who lost his footwear in the process. This was Dilruwan?s 100th Test wicket. Pujara was as watchful as he had been all these years before unleashing his range of strokes with the visiting team's bowling attack looking sub-standard. However, he fell into a trap when Chandimal deployed a leg slip for Pujara and Gamage fired one into his body. Pujara tried to whip it off his hips but Sadeera Samarawickrama was positioned exactly for that catch. However, there was no stopping Vijay, who treated all bowlers with equal disdain. He hit a flowing cover drive off Gamage and then flicked him through the vacant mid-wicket region for another boundary.

Vijay's hundred, Kohli's 94 takes India to 245 for 2 at tea

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara jumped a couple of rungs to second, while skipper Virat Kohli held on to the fifth spot in the latest ICC rankings for Test batsmen, issued here today.

Pujara trails Australian captain Steve Smith, who has extended his lead at the top but the next four batsmen are separated by just 11 points in the latest rankings, the ICC said in a statement.

Pujara has returned to number-two ranking after scoring 143 in his side&#39;s huge victory by an innings and 239 runs against Sri Lanka in Nagpur.

He had first peaked to second following the Ranchi Test against Australia in March, while the last time he was second was following his 133 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August.

Pujara has been rewarded with 22 points, lifting him from fourth to second on a career-high 888 points.

The 29-year-old now leads his fifth-ranked captain Kohli by 11 points. Kohli has vaulted from 817 points to 877 points after scoring his fifth career double-century in 62 Tests.

Smith, on the other hand, stroked an unbeaten 141, his 21st century in his 57th Test, which was the cornerstone of Australia&#39;s 10-wicket victory over England in the first Ashes Test.

For his performance, Smith has gained five points to rise to 941 points, making him joint-fifth in terms of the highest points tally in batting history in Tests behind Sir Don Bradman (961), Len Hutton (945), Jack Hobbs (942) and Ricky Ponting (942), and at par with Peter May (941).

England captain Joe Root is sitting third and New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is occupying the fourth spot, while sixth-ranked David Warner of Australia is another 51 points behind Kohli.

India opener Murali Vijay and middle-order batsman Rohit Sharma, who were the other centurions in the just-concluded Test, have also made impressive gains. Vijay has risen eight places to 28th position, while Rohit has shot up seven places to 46th spot.

Some of the leading batsmen heading in the wrong direction include KL Rahul (ninth, down by one), Ajinkya Rahane (15th, down by two), Dimuth Karunaratne (18th, down by one), and Shikhar Dhawan (29th, down by one).

In the bowlers&#39; rankings, Ravindra Jadeja has reclaimed the second position following his match figures of five for 84, while Mitchell Starc has returned to the top 10 in 10th position after his match figures of six for 128 helped him to gain three places.

Ravichandran Ashwin, who became the fastest man to 300 wickets in Tests, has consolidated his fourth position by gaining nine points, which helped him to be on 849 points.

The India off-spinner is now 42 points behind number-one ranked James Anderson, who has dropped five points after claiming two wickets in the Brisbane Test.

Other bowlers to improve their rankings include Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishant Sharma, who have moved up one place each to 28th and 30th respectively.

In the all-rounders&#39; rankings, Ashwin has returned to third place in the list which is headed by Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Australia captain Steve Smith was at the no. 1 spot

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara jumped a couple of rungs to second, while skipper Virat Kohli held on to the fifth spot in the latest ICC rankings for Test batsmen, issued here today. Pujara trails Australian captain Steve Smith, who has extended his lead at the top but the next four batsmen are separated by just 11 points in the latest rankings, the ICC said in a statement. Pujara has returned to number-two ranking after scoring 143 in his side's huge victory by an innings and 239 runs against Sri Lanka in Nagpur. He had first peaked to second following the Ranchi Test against Australia in March, while the last time he was second was following his 133 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August. Pujara has been rewarded with 22 points, lifting him from fourth to second on a career-high 888 points. The 29-year-old now leads his fifth-ranked captain Kohli by 11 points. Kohli has vaulted from 817 points to 877 points after scoring his fifth career double-century in 62 Tests. Smith, on the other hand, stroked an unbeaten 141, his 21st century in his 57th Test, which was the cornerstone of Australia's 10-wicket victory over England in the first Ashes Test. For his performance, Smith has gained five points to rise to 941 points, making him joint-fifth in terms of the highest points tally in batting history in Tests behind Sir Don Bradman (961), Len Hutton (945), Jack Hobbs (942) and Ricky Ponting (942), and at par with Peter May (941). England captain Joe Root is sitting third and New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is occupying the fourth spot, while sixth-ranked David Warner of Australia is another 51 points behind Kohli. India opener Murali Vijay and middle-order batsman Rohit Sharma, who were the other centurions in the just-concluded Test, have also made impressive gains. Vijay has risen eight places to 28th position, while Rohit has shot up seven places to 46th spot. Some of the leading batsmen heading in the wrong direction include KL Rahul (ninth, down by one), Ajinkya Rahane (15th, down by two), Dimuth Karunaratne (18th, down by one), and Shikhar Dhawan (29th, down by one). In the bowlers' rankings, Ravindra Jadeja has reclaimed the second position following his match figures of five for 84, while Mitchell Starc has returned to the top 10 in 10th position after his match figures of six for 128 helped him to gain three places. Ravichandran Ashwin, who became the fastest man to 300 wickets in Tests, has consolidated his fourth position by gaining nine points, which helped him to be on 849 points. The India off-spinner is now 42 points behind number-one ranked James Anderson, who has dropped five points after claiming two wickets in the Brisbane Test. Other bowlers to improve their rankings include Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishant Sharma, who have moved up one place each to 28th and 30th respectively. In the all-rounders' rankings, Ashwin has returned to third place in the list which is headed by Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh.

ICC Test rankings: Pujara climbs to 2nd spot, Kohli stays at 5th

Indian middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara became the third Indian cricketer after Ravi Shastri and ML Jaisimha to have batted in all five days of a Test match&nbsp;against Sri Lanka at the Eden Gardens on Monday.

Cheteshwar Pujara equalled&nbsp;India&#39;s current coach Ravi Shastri&#39;s record set in 1984 against England at Kolkata and Jaisimha&#39;s record effort against Australia in 1960 in the same venue.

The other batsmen who have batted in all five days of a Test match include England&#39;s Geoff Boycott,&nbsp;Allan Lamb and&nbsp;Andrew Flintoff, Australia&#39;s Kim Hughes, West Indies great Adrian Griffith&nbsp;and South Africa&#39;s Alviro Petersen.

Jaisimha&#39;s 20 not out and 74 against Australia at Kolkata in January, 1960 was the first time a batsman had batted on all five days. &nbsp;Alviro Petersen was the last batsman in March, 2012 who created a similar record against New Zealand at Wellington.

The only batsman to have created the record against India was England&nbsp;all-rounder Andrew Flintoff at Mohali in March 2006.

Cheteshwar Pujara broke India's current coach Ravi Shastri's record set in 1984 against England at Kolkata and Jaisimha's record effort against Australia

Indian middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara became the third Indian cricketer after Ravi Shastri and ML Jaisimha to have batted in all five days of a Test match against Sri Lanka at the Eden Gardens on Monday. Cheteshwar Pujara equalled India's current coach Ravi Shastri's record set in 1984 against England at Kolkata and Jaisimha's record effort against Australia in 1960 in the same venue. The other batsmen who have batted in all five days of a Test match include England's Geoff Boycott, Allan Lamb and Andrew Flintoff, Australia's Kim Hughes, West Indies great Adrian Griffith and South Africa's Alviro Petersen. Jaisimha's 20 not out and 74 against Australia at Kolkata in January, 1960 was the first time a batsman had batted on all five days. Alviro Petersen was the last batsman in March, 2012 who created a similar record against New Zealand at Wellington. The only batsman to have created the record against India was England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff at Mohali in March 2006.

Kolkata Test: Pujara bats on all five days, equals Shastri, Jaisimha's record

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