Two-time champions India and 2015 runners-up New Zealand will leave no stone unturned when they will battle for final World Cup berth at Manchester's Old Trafford cricket stadium.&nbsp;

However, the rain gods might have something else planned for today's game.

Light showers are expected in the morning, which will lead to overcast conditions in the late morning at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Fast bowlers will love the cloud cover over the Old Trafford pitch, if Indian captain Virat Kohli wins the toss he would want to make use of his pace attack spearheaded by Bumrah &amp; Co although Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed had chosen to ball first at the same venue after winning the toss against India and lost, so it will be a tough call for anybody calling the toss.

The rain is expected to affect the crucial first hour of the match, according to the weather report.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-know-what-will-happen-if-india-vs-new-zealand-match-gets-abandoned-234101">Know what will happen if India vs New Zealand match gets abandoned</a>

Showers are expected at 11 am BST (3:30 pm IST) and after clearing up in an hour again it is set to hit by 6 pm BST (10:30 pm IST) in the last stages of the game.

The maximum temperature in Manchester is expected to be around 20 degrees.

Cloud cover is expected throughout the day and selection of the playing XI will depend on the conditions of the pitch.

India's league-stage match against New Zealand in Nottingham was washed out due to rain.

In case of another washout today, the reserve day will come into play and the two teams will play the semi-final on Wednesday.

Watch: Virat's pre-match press conference

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If Wednesday's game is also washed out, then India, with more points in the group stages than New Zealand, will progress to play the final.

Two-time champions India and 2015 runners-up New Zealand will leave no stone unturned when they will battle for final World Cup berth at Manchester's Old Trafford cricket stadium.

Two-time champions India and 2015 runners-up New Zealand will leave no stone unturned when they will battle for final World Cup berth at Manchester's Old Trafford cricket stadium. However, the rain gods might have something else planned for today's game. Light showers are expected in the morning, which will lead to overcast conditions in the late morning at Old Trafford. Fast bowlers will love the cloud cover over the Old Trafford pitch, if Indian captain Virat Kohli wins the toss he would want to make use of his pace attack spearheaded by Bumrah & Co although Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed had chosen to ball first at the same venue after winning the toss against India and lost, so it will be a tough call for anybody calling the toss. The rain is expected to affect the crucial first hour of the match, according to the weather report. Also Read: Know what will happen if India vs New Zealand match gets abandoned Showers are expected at 11 am BST (3:30 pm IST) and after clearing up in an hour again it is set to hit by 6 pm BST (10:30 pm IST) in the last stages of the game. The maximum temperature in Manchester is expected to be around 20 degrees. Cloud cover is expected throughout the day and selection of the playing XI will depend on the conditions of the pitch. India's league-stage match against New Zealand in Nottingham was washed out due to rain. In case of another washout today, the reserve day will come into play and the two teams will play the semi-final on Wednesday. Watch: Virat's pre-match press conference × If Wednesday's game is also washed out, then India, with more points in the group stages than New Zealand, will progress to play the final.

World Cup: Overcast clouds, rain expected at Manchester ahead of India vs New Zealand semi-final

The first semi-final of Cricket World Cup 2019 between India and New Zealand, which is underway in Manchester's Old Trafford,&nbsp;has been stopped due to rain.&nbsp;

Opting to bat first,&nbsp;New Zealand reached 211/5 off 46.1 overs before the match was halted.&nbsp;

The umpires will try everything they can to complete the game today and have&nbsp;at least a&nbsp;minimum of 20 overs per innings as there is an additional two hours' playing time to complete the match.&nbsp;

Although, if the conditions don't allow to get the match started then play will resume tomorrow, which is scheduled as the reserve day for today's match.&nbsp;

But the reserve day will only come into operation if the minimum 20 over-per-side match needed for a result under the Duckworth-Lewis method&nbsp;cannot be finished.&nbsp;

In that case, the match would continue Wednesday from where it left off rather than be re-started.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-old-trafford-becomes-no-fly-zone-for-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-clash-234279">Old Trafford becomes 'no fly zone' for India vs New Zealand semi-final clash</a>

Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-new-zealands-martin-guptill-in-semi-final-234308">Virat Kohli takes stunning catch to dismiss New Zealand's Martin Guptill in semi-final</a>

But if a 20 overs per side match cannot be completed on Wednesday as well, India would reach the final owing to their better finish in the 10-team group stage.&nbsp;

In the match, Ross Taylor was 67 not out and Tom Latham three not out when persistent rain worsened sufficiently for the umpires to take the players off the field at 2:00pm (1300 GMT) with 23 balls of the scheduled 50 overs in the innings left.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson had earlier made 67.

India's pacer Jasprit Bumrah led a&nbsp;disciplined bowling attack as in his eight overs, he took&nbsp;1 wicket and gave 25 runs.&nbsp;

The first semi-final of Cricket World Cup 2019 between India and New Zealand, which is underway in Manchester's Old Trafford, has been stopped due to rain. Opting to bat first, New Zealand reached 211/5 off 46.

The first semi-final of Cricket World Cup 2019 between India and New Zealand, which is underway in Manchester's Old Trafford, has been stopped due to rain. Opting to bat first, New Zealand reached 211/5 off 46.1 overs before the match was halted. The umpires will try everything they can to complete the game today and have at least a minimum of 20 overs per innings as there is an additional two hours' playing time to complete the match. Although, if the conditions don't allow to get the match started then play will resume tomorrow, which is scheduled as the reserve day for today's match. But the reserve day will only come into operation if the minimum 20 over-per-side match needed for a result under the Duckworth-Lewis method cannot be finished. In that case, the match would continue Wednesday from where it left off rather than be re-started. Also Read: Old Trafford becomes 'no fly zone' for India vs New Zealand semi-final clash Watch: Virat Kohli takes stunning catch to dismiss New Zealand's Martin Guptill in semi-final But if a 20 overs per side match cannot be completed on Wednesday as well, India would reach the final owing to their better finish in the 10-team group stage. In the match, Ross Taylor was 67 not out and Tom Latham three not out when persistent rain worsened sufficiently for the umpires to take the players off the field at 2:00pm (1300 GMT) with 23 balls of the scheduled 50 overs in the innings left. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson had earlier made 67. India's pacer Jasprit Bumrah led a disciplined bowling attack as in his eight overs, he took 1 wicket and gave 25 runs.

India vs New Zealand, semi-final: Know about reserve day rules

New Zealand have the capacity to upset <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-its-india-vs-new-zealand-and-australia-vs-england-in-semis-233669">Cricket World Cup</a> favourites India in Tuesday's semi-final if they can make an explosive start to the match, according to former captain Daniel Vettori.

After making a fast start to the tournament, the Black Caps lost their last three round-robin games and qualified for the semi-finals in fourth place to set up a clash with the top-ranked Indians in Manchester.

They are heavy underdogs to get to their second successive final but Vettori said anything was possible if New Zealand hit the ground running.

"A three-match losing streak can evaporate pretty quickly with a great 10 overs at the start," Vettori wrote in his International Cricket Council column.

"If New Zealand get off to a great start, with bat or ball, the streak will soon be forgotten."

Vettori said that out-of-form opening batsman Martin Guptill, who has scored just 166 runs in eight innings, was key to that game plan on the batting side.

"He has done it before so many times, and knowing him as I do, I am sure he can turn it around again and very quickly it will become a different story," he added.

"Don't forget he actually started this tournament pretty well with an unbeaten half-century against Sri Lanka, so he doesn't have to look back all that far for proof of what he can still do at this level."

The former left-arm spinner said the rest of New Zealand's batting lineup should also follow the same tactics that England had in the round-robin stage when they beat India by 31 runs at Edgbaston.

Eoin Morgan's team saw off the "basically unplayable" quick Jasprit Bumrah then attacked the rest of the Indian bowlers in a blueprint Vettori believes New Zealand have the talent to follow.

"New Zealand have got all the ingredients in place to put on a big total. I know they haven't done it yet. The Black Caps have the plan in place to post something big, it just all needs to come together at the right time."

Attacking in the opening 10 overs with the ball was also paramount, he wrote, even if India were the best side at assessing conditions and adjusting their batting accordingly.

"They will have to be aggressive right from the outset and bowl to take wickets. If you take early wickets and can get at that Indian middle-order then you have a chance.

"The key will be Trent Boult, he knows these Indian batsmen extremely well at this point. They have to stay aggressive, bowl to get wickets and let Trent work his magic at the start, in the middle and at the death."

New Zealand have the capacity to upset Cricket World Cup favourites India in Tuesday's semi-final if they can make an explosive start to the match, according to former captain Daniel Vettori.

New Zealand have the capacity to upset Cricket World Cup favourites India in Tuesday's semi-final if they can make an explosive start to the match, according to former captain Daniel Vettori. After making a fast start to the tournament, the Black Caps lost their last three round-robin games and qualified for the semi-finals in fourth place to set up a clash with the top-ranked Indians in Manchester. They are heavy underdogs to get to their second successive final but Vettori said anything was possible if New Zealand hit the ground running. "A three-match losing streak can evaporate pretty quickly with a great 10 overs at the start," Vettori wrote in his International Cricket Council column. "If New Zealand get off to a great start, with bat or ball, the streak will soon be forgotten." Vettori said that out-of-form opening batsman Martin Guptill, who has scored just 166 runs in eight innings, was key to that game plan on the batting side. "He has done it before so many times, and knowing him as I do, I am sure he can turn it around again and very quickly it will become a different story," he added. "Don't forget he actually started this tournament pretty well with an unbeaten half-century against Sri Lanka, so he doesn't have to look back all that far for proof of what he can still do at this level." The former left-arm spinner said the rest of New Zealand's batting lineup should also follow the same tactics that England had in the round-robin stage when they beat India by 31 runs at Edgbaston. Eoin Morgan's team saw off the "basically unplayable" quick Jasprit Bumrah then attacked the rest of the Indian bowlers in a blueprint Vettori believes New Zealand have the talent to follow. "New Zealand have got all the ingredients in place to put on a big total. I know they haven't done it yet. The Black Caps have the plan in place to post something big, it just all needs to come together at the right time." Attacking in the opening 10 overs with the ball was also paramount, he wrote, even if India were the best side at assessing conditions and adjusting their batting accordingly. "They will have to be aggressive right from the outset and bowl to take wickets. If you take early wickets and can get at that Indian middle-order then you have a chance. "The key will be Trent Boult, he knows these Indian batsmen extremely well at this point. They have to stay aggressive, bowl to get wickets and let Trent work his magic at the start, in the middle and at the death."

New Zealand can beat India with an explosive start, says Daniel Vettori

Australia will play England in the World Cup semi-finals after the holders suffered a dramatic 10-run defeat against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday.&nbsp;

David Warner marked his first match against South Africa since a 12-month ball-tampering ban with his third hundred of the World Cup, but it was not enough to prevent Australia suffering their second loss of the 10-team group stage.&nbsp;

Defeat on the penultimate ball meant Australia, who had already qualified for the semi-finals, failed to clinch top spot as India leapfrogged them to take pole position after beating Sri Lanka earlier on Saturday.

Had Australia won, they would have faced fourth-placed New Zealand in the first semi-final at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

But instead they will play resurgent hosts England in the second semi-final at Edgbaston on Thursday.

The final is at Lord's a week on Sunday.&nbsp;

Warner (122) and Alex Carey (85) got Australia to within sight of a stiff target of 326 during a fifth-wicket partnership of 108.

But neither could see their side home to victory after South Africa captain Faf du Plessis made 100 and Rassie van der Dussen a career-best 95 in a total of 325-6.

Australia were struggling at 119 for four and Warner could only watch as wickets fell early against a Proteas side whose own semi-final hopes had long since disappeared.&nbsp;

Australia captain Aaron Finch, Warner's opening partner, went for three, when he chipped Imran Tahir to short cover, sparking a typically exuberant celebration from the bowler.

Steve Smith, who like Warner was given a 12-month ban for his part in the ball-tampering scandal during a Test in Cape Town last year, fell lbw for seven to Dwaine Pretorius.

Nail-biting

Warner held firm, going past 600 runs for the tournament, with his latest century coming up in 100 balls when he edged Chris Morris for his 12th four.

He was eventually out when a drive off Dwaine Pretorius was well caught by a diving Morris at mid-on.

Carey, however, launched Tahir for six during his career-best ODI knock before his 69-ball innings ended when he carved Morris to Aiden Markram at deep cover to leave Australia 275-7 in the 46th over.

Usman Khawaja returned after retiring hurt earlier in the innings and helped get the target down to 25 off 12 balls before he was bowled for 18, walking across his stumps, by Kagiso Rabada.

The target eventually became 18 off a nail-biting last over -- bowled by Andile Phehlukwayo -- with one wicket standing.&nbsp;

And with 11 needed off two balls, last man Nathan Lyon holed out to Markram in the deep.&nbsp;

Earlier, Mitchell Starc equalled Australia legend Glenn McGrath's World Cup tournament record of 26 wickets, set at the 2007 event in the Caribbean, with a return of 2-59.

Markram (33), opening after South Africa veteran Hashim Amla was ruled out with a knee injury playing football in a warm-up on Friday, and Quinton de Kock (52) set the tone in front of a sun-drenched crowd in a first-wicket stand of 79.

Du Plessis, who drove fast bowler Pat Cummins for a superb six, completed the first hundred by a South African at this World Cup in 93 balls.

But he was out to the next ball he faced, slicing Jason Behrendorff to third man.

Van der Dussen fell short of his maiden ODI hundred when, trying to hit the last ball of the innings for six, he holed out off Cummins.

Australia will play England in the World Cup semi-finals after the holders suffered a dramatic 10-run defeat against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday. David Warner marked his first match against South Africa since a 12-month ball-tampering ban with his third hundred of the World Cup, but it was not enough to prevent Australia suffering their second loss of the 10-team group stage.

Australia will play England in the World Cup semi-finals after the holders suffered a dramatic 10-run defeat against South Africa at Old Trafford on Saturday. David Warner marked his first match against South Africa since a 12-month ball-tampering ban with his third hundred of the World Cup, but it was not enough to prevent Australia suffering their second loss of the 10-team group stage. Defeat on the penultimate ball meant Australia, who had already qualified for the semi-finals, failed to clinch top spot as India leapfrogged them to take pole position after beating Sri Lanka earlier on Saturday. Had Australia won, they would have faced fourth-placed New Zealand in the first semi-final at Old Trafford on Tuesday. But instead they will play resurgent hosts England in the second semi-final at Edgbaston on Thursday. The final is at Lord's a week on Sunday. Warner (122) and Alex Carey (85) got Australia to within sight of a stiff target of 326 during a fifth-wicket partnership of 108. But neither could see their side home to victory after South Africa captain Faf du Plessis made 100 and Rassie van der Dussen a career-best 95 in a total of 325-6. Australia were struggling at 119 for four and Warner could only watch as wickets fell early against a Proteas side whose own semi-final hopes had long since disappeared. Australia captain Aaron Finch, Warner's opening partner, went for three, when he chipped Imran Tahir to short cover, sparking a typically exuberant celebration from the bowler. Steve Smith, who like Warner was given a 12-month ban for his part in the ball-tampering scandal during a Test in Cape Town last year, fell lbw for seven to Dwaine Pretorius. Nail-biting Warner held firm, going past 600 runs for the tournament, with his latest century coming up in 100 balls when he edged Chris Morris for his 12th four. He was eventually out when a drive off Dwaine Pretorius was well caught by a diving Morris at mid-on. Carey, however, launched Tahir for six during his career-best ODI knock before his 69-ball innings ended when he carved Morris to Aiden Markram at deep cover to leave Australia 275-7 in the 46th over. Usman Khawaja returned after retiring hurt earlier in the innings and helped get the target down to 25 off 12 balls before he was bowled for 18, walking across his stumps, by Kagiso Rabada. The target eventually became 18 off a nail-biting last over -- bowled by Andile Phehlukwayo -- with one wicket standing. And with 11 needed off two balls, last man Nathan Lyon holed out to Markram in the deep. Earlier, Mitchell Starc equalled Australia legend Glenn McGrath's World Cup tournament record of 26 wickets, set at the 2007 event in the Caribbean, with a return of 2-59. Markram (33), opening after South Africa veteran Hashim Amla was ruled out with a knee injury playing football in a warm-up on Friday, and Quinton de Kock (52) set the tone in front of a sun-drenched crowd in a first-wicket stand of 79. Du Plessis, who drove fast bowler Pat Cummins for a superb six, completed the first hundred by a South African at this World Cup in 93 balls. But he was out to the next ball he faced, slicing Jason Behrendorff to third man. Van der Dussen fell short of his maiden ODI hundred when, trying to hit the last ball of the innings for six, he holed out off Cummins.

Cricket World Cup: It's India vs New Zealand and Australia vs England in semis

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-morgan-hails-bairstow-roy-while-williamson-rues-lack-of-partnerships-232936">New Zealand qualified</a> for the World Cup semi-finals on Friday when Pakistan could no longer better their net run-rate in their final group game against Bangladesh.

Sarfaraz Ahmed's team needed to smash the world record for margin of victory in a one-day international but after winning the toss at Lord's they failed to muster enough runs to give them a chance.

Their total of 315 for nine meant that Bangladesh needed only eight runs to end Pakistan's hopes of progress at the tournament and they reached that in the second over.

New Zealand join Australia, India and England in next week's semi-finals.

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New Zealand have QUALIFIED for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> semi-finals! <a href="https://t.co/KCi4ISclqQ">pic.twitter.com/KCi4ISclqQ</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1147143101829582848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan, backed by thousands of passionate flag-waving fans, started curiously slowly in the London sunshine, crawling to 38-1 after 10 overs.

Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam eventually stepped on the gas, reaching their 150 partnership for the second wicket off 146 balls.

But Babar was out shortly afterwards for an impressive 96 off 98 deliveries.

Babar had batted beautifully, hitting 11 fours as he and Imam laid the foundation for a late-innings flourish.

But in another huge blow for Pakistan, Imam was next to go when he trod on his stumps after scoring exactly 100, to leave them 246-3 in the 42nd over, with Mohammad Hafeez departing in the next over.

A late flourish from Imad Wasim, who scored 43 runs from 26 balls, boosted the score but Pakistan lacked the muscle to take the game away from Bangladesh.&nbsp;

"It feels great when you do something good for the team but we have to win the match, that's the main thing," Imam said.

Imam admitted Pakistan took a realistic approach to the match, and were not aiming for 400.

"We have to be realistic and assess the conditions," he said. "They are a good side and they were bowling tight lines -- it was our plan to look for 300 or 320."

Mustafizur Rahman took five wickets for Bangladesh, including a superb caught and bowled to dismiss Shadab Khan.

Bangladesh lost Soumya Sarkar for 22 early in their reply and Tamim Iqbal was the next to go, leaving them 48-2 in the 11th over.

Pakistan were shot out for a paltry 105 in their first match, with the West Indies winning in just 13.4 overs, meaning they took a huge hit on run rate.

They won just one of their first five matches, coming back strongly to beat South Africa, New Zealand and Afghanistan to sit fifth in the 10-team table, but in the end left themselves too much to do.

New Zealand qualified for the World Cup semi-finals on Friday when Pakistan could no longer better their net run-rate in their final group game against Bangladesh.

New Zealand qualified for the World Cup semi-finals on Friday when Pakistan could no longer better their net run-rate in their final group game against Bangladesh. Sarfaraz Ahmed's team needed to smash the world record for margin of victory in a one-day international but after winning the toss at Lord's they failed to muster enough runs to give them a chance. Their total of 315 for nine meant that Bangladesh needed only eight runs to end Pakistan's hopes of progress at the tournament and they reached that in the second over. New Zealand join Australia, India and England in next week's semi-finals. New Zealand have QUALIFIED for #CWC19 semi-finals! pic.twitter.com/KCi4ISclqQ — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 5, 2019 × Pakistan, backed by thousands of passionate flag-waving fans, started curiously slowly in the London sunshine, crawling to 38-1 after 10 overs. Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam eventually stepped on the gas, reaching their 150 partnership for the second wicket off 146 balls. But Babar was out shortly afterwards for an impressive 96 off 98 deliveries. Babar had batted beautifully, hitting 11 fours as he and Imam laid the foundation for a late-innings flourish. But in another huge blow for Pakistan, Imam was next to go when he trod on his stumps after scoring exactly 100, to leave them 246-3 in the 42nd over, with Mohammad Hafeez departing in the next over. A late flourish from Imad Wasim, who scored 43 runs from 26 balls, boosted the score but Pakistan lacked the muscle to take the game away from Bangladesh. "It feels great when you do something good for the team but we have to win the match, that's the main thing," Imam said. Imam admitted Pakistan took a realistic approach to the match, and were not aiming for 400. "We have to be realistic and assess the conditions," he said. "They are a good side and they were bowling tight lines -- it was our plan to look for 300 or 320." Mustafizur Rahman took five wickets for Bangladesh, including a superb caught and bowled to dismiss Shadab Khan. Bangladesh lost Soumya Sarkar for 22 early in their reply and Tamim Iqbal was the next to go, leaving them 48-2 in the 11th over. Pakistan were shot out for a paltry 105 in their first match, with the West Indies winning in just 13.4 overs, meaning they took a huge hit on run rate. They won just one of their first five matches, coming back strongly to beat South Africa, New Zealand and Afghanistan to sit fifth in the 10-team table, but in the end left themselves too much to do.

New Zealand qualify for World Cup semis as Pakistan fail in 'miracle bid'

After registering a comprehensive 119-run victory over New Zealand, England's pacer Mark Wood said that he got really lucky to dismiss Kiwi skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-morgan-hails-bairstow-roy-while-williamson-rues-lack-of-partnerships-232936">Kane Williamson</a>.

Williamson was playing steadily during the chase of 307 runs against England.

Ross Taylor punched a delivery from Wood down the ground, but Wood stuck his hand out and he got the slightest of deflection onto the stumps at the non-striker's end.

Williamson who was backing up in trying to steal a run, was found short of his ground and was eventually sent back to the pavilion.

"I got lucky. He backed-up because he was looking for the run. It was nothing to do with my bowling. And it's not as if I deliberately palmed it back on the stumps. I was trying to actually stop it and got a little bit fortunate. I am pleased that in such a big game I managed to be so lucky," Wood said.

"He doesn't know how unlucky he is because I've got the smallest hands for a bloke you've ever seen. I managed to just get a fingertip to it. The umpire wasn't sure if I'd tipped it, and I was like 'I swear to God I did.'&nbsp;I knew it had flicked the end of my finger," he added.

During the match between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-new-zealand-by-119-runs-to-reach-world-cup-semis-232875">England </a>and New Zealand, the former won the toss and opted to bat first.

England posted a score of 306 runs on the board. Openers Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow once again provided a solid opening partnership to the team.

Roy was dismissed for 60 but Bairstow went on to score a century. This was Bairstow's second consecutive century as he earlier scored a century against India on Sunday as well.

New Zealand were not able to chase the target as they fell 119-run short. No Kiwi batsmen were able to stay at the crease for a long time and England kept chipping away at the wickets.

As a result of this, England qualified for the semi-finals.

England have qualified for the semi-finals for the first time in the World Cup since 1992.

Wood heaped praise on Williamson, saying that the Kiwi is one of the best batsmen he has bowled at. The pacer said that the team has momentum in its corner, which will be beneficial for the side in the semi-final.

"He is one of the best players I've ever bowled at. So to get him out any way you can is pretty important. It saved me bowling at him any more so I was pretty pleased," Wood said.

"We've got some great momentum. We've had our backs up against the wall so to play with the values we have talked about in the past has shown a lot of courage from the team. Now we are going on to another huge game, but one we'll be pretty confident in," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-really-pleased-with-my-performance-says-jonny-bairstow-after-smashing-century-232822">England </a>now waits for other results to find out who they will face in the semi-final.

After registering a comprehensive 119-run victory over New Zealand, England's pacer Mark Wood said that he got really lucky to dismiss Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson.

After registering a comprehensive 119-run victory over New Zealand, England's pacer Mark Wood said that he got really lucky to dismiss Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson. Williamson was playing steadily during the chase of 307 runs against England. Ross Taylor punched a delivery from Wood down the ground, but Wood stuck his hand out and he got the slightest of deflection onto the stumps at the non-striker's end. Williamson who was backing up in trying to steal a run, was found short of his ground and was eventually sent back to the pavilion. "I got lucky. He backed-up because he was looking for the run. It was nothing to do with my bowling. And it's not as if I deliberately palmed it back on the stumps. I was trying to actually stop it and got a little bit fortunate. I am pleased that in such a big game I managed to be so lucky," Wood said. "He doesn't know how unlucky he is because I've got the smallest hands for a bloke you've ever seen. I managed to just get a fingertip to it. The umpire wasn't sure if I'd tipped it, and I was like 'I swear to God I did.' I knew it had flicked the end of my finger," he added. During the match between England and New Zealand, the former won the toss and opted to bat first. England posted a score of 306 runs on the board. Openers Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow once again provided a solid opening partnership to the team. Roy was dismissed for 60 but Bairstow went on to score a century. This was Bairstow's second consecutive century as he earlier scored a century against India on Sunday as well. New Zealand were not able to chase the target as they fell 119-run short. No Kiwi batsmen were able to stay at the crease for a long time and England kept chipping away at the wickets. As a result of this, England qualified for the semi-finals. England have qualified for the semi-finals for the first time in the World Cup since 1992. Wood heaped praise on Williamson, saying that the Kiwi is one of the best batsmen he has bowled at. The pacer said that the team has momentum in its corner, which will be beneficial for the side in the semi-final. "He is one of the best players I've ever bowled at. So to get him out any way you can is pretty important. It saved me bowling at him any more so I was pretty pleased," Wood said. "We've got some great momentum. We've had our backs up against the wall so to play with the values we have talked about in the past has shown a lot of courage from the team. Now we are going on to another huge game, but one we'll be pretty confident in," he added. England now waits for other results to find out who they will face in the semi-final.

World Cup: I got lucky, says England's Mark Wood on dismissing Kane Williamson

Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup received a major setback after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-new-zealand-by-119-runs-to-reach-world-cup-semis-232875">England beat New Zealand</a> by 119 runs on Wednesday.

Now, Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh by never seen before margins to stand a chance to reach the semis. Pakistan are placed fifth in the points table with nine points from eight matches.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-beats-india-in-dropped-catches-with-a-huge-margin-in-world-cup-2019-229984&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjB0t6m5prjAhXHiHAKHQuKAUAQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0JlL65hg04lfP7bYrRuOVE">Pakistan </a>are just below New Zealand, who are placed fourth with eleven points from nine matches and have a net run rate of +0.175 even after their loss to England.

Pakistan have a net run rate of -0.792 which will probably cost them their chance to qualify for the semis.

There are very slim chances of Pakistan to qualify to the semifinal but it is mathematically possible.

Here are the probable ways for Pakistan to reach the semis:

If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 311 runs after posting 350

or

If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 316 runs after scoring 400

or

If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 321 runs after scoring 450.

And if Pakistan are made to bowl first, they will be out of the semifinal race even before the first ball is bowled at Lord's on Friday.

New Zealand who are placed fourth will qualify automatically if Pakistan fail to beat Bangladesh by one of these highly unlikely margins.

Pakistan will take on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-bangladesh-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-with-62-run-win-over-afghanistan-230128&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjHwZ235prjAhWBFYgKHYkGDbEQFjAJegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0JPwlCPamZyM8YaHDhHLgh">Bangladesh </a>on Friday at &nbsp;Lord's in London.

Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup received a major setback after England beat New Zealand by 119 runs on Wednesday. Now, Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh by never seen before margins to stand a chance to reach the semis.

Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup received a major setback after England beat New Zealand by 119 runs on Wednesday. Now, Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh by never seen before margins to stand a chance to reach the semis. Pakistan are placed fifth in the points table with nine points from eight matches. Pakistan are just below New Zealand, who are placed fourth with eleven points from nine matches and have a net run rate of +0.175 even after their loss to England. Pakistan have a net run rate of -0.792 which will probably cost them their chance to qualify for the semis. There are very slim chances of Pakistan to qualify to the semifinal but it is mathematically possible. Here are the probable ways for Pakistan to reach the semis: If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 311 runs after posting 350 or If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 316 runs after scoring 400 or If Pakistan beat Bangladesh by 321 runs after scoring 450. And if Pakistan are made to bowl first, they will be out of the semifinal race even before the first ball is bowled at Lord's on Friday. New Zealand who are placed fourth will qualify automatically if Pakistan fail to beat Bangladesh by one of these highly unlikely margins. Pakistan will take on Bangladesh on Friday at Lord's in London.

Pakistan may get 'tossed' out of World Cup even before a ball is bowled in Bangladesh match

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is a "world-class" leader and pundits should not brand him as timid or cautious after the Kiwis lost their last two matches at the Cricket World Cup, batsman Ross Taylor said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealands-trent-boult-takes-world-cup-hat-trick-against-australia-231583&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik5ZzOkZjjAhVMLo8KHbaeC2kQFjAGegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2bi3h_rwdFfwzpCSvM9Bvz">New Zealand</a> were firm favourites to become the first team to seal a semi-final spot after winning five matches in a row but consecutive losses to Pakistan and Australia have left Williamson's side in third place with one game to go.

British media have picked on Williamson's sedate captaincy style which they said was in stark contrast to former captain Brendon McCullum's gung-ho approach but Taylor said he was not concerned by the reaction from pundits.

"I think Kane is a fantastic world-class batsman and a world-class captain," he told reporters ahead of Wednesday's match against England. "You don't have to look far, the last couple of matches.''

"There are some pundits out there saying he was a great captain. We lose a couple of games and he is a bad captain. He is still a great captain, leads from the front and the team respect him and I love playing under him.''

"I played under many different captains, Brendon was the extreme and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2015-firmly-behind-kane-williamsons-new-zealand-as-they-reunite-with-sri-lanka-223318&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik5ZzOkZjjAhVMLo8KHbaeC2kQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3e4Gib8bbdanDAS87pBEc3">Kane </a>has his own unique style... Brendon would want to set very attacking fields throughout the whole match and Kane would pick his moments when he wants to attack," said Taylor.

Taylor said he expected a high-scoring match at The Riverside Ground after Sri Lanka beat West Indies by 23 runs at the same venue on Monday, with both teams scoring 300-plus runs.

"I think it will be a good wicket," Taylor added. "I think we saw yesterday (in the) Sri Lanka-West Indies (game), 300 played 300. So I think we've got to expect... scores of 300-plus.

"But in saying that, both teams have got very good bowling lineups that can exploit conditions if suited and vice versa some very powerful batting lineups as well."

A win against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-england-end-indias-unbeaten-run-to-revive-semis-hopes-231858&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl5LT4kZjjAhVZinAKHcg8CswQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0P3LpmRK4ucDwqMrAk4xc2">England </a>will seal a semi-final spot for the Kiwis but - placed three points behind Australia - they cannot top the standings.

However, Taylor said a top-four finish was their primary target and not their seeding for the semi-final fixtures.

"We said at the start of the tournament, it doesn't matter if you go on as the first seed or the fourth seed as long as you make the semi-finals," the 35-year-old said.

"Once you make the semi-finals, you know you are only two games away," Taylor said.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is a "world-class" leader and pundits should not brand him as timid or cautious after the Kiwis lost their last two matches at the Cricket World Cup, batsman Ross Taylor said on Tuesday.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is a "world-class" leader and pundits should not brand him as timid or cautious after the Kiwis lost their last two matches at the Cricket World Cup, batsman Ross Taylor said on Tuesday. New Zealand were firm favourites to become the first team to seal a semi-final spot after winning five matches in a row but consecutive losses to Pakistan and Australia have left Williamson's side in third place with one game to go. British media have picked on Williamson's sedate captaincy style which they said was in stark contrast to former captain Brendon McCullum's gung-ho approach but Taylor said he was not concerned by the reaction from pundits. "I think Kane is a fantastic world-class batsman and a world-class captain," he told reporters ahead of Wednesday's match against England. "You don't have to look far, the last couple of matches.'' "There are some pundits out there saying he was a great captain. We lose a couple of games and he is a bad captain. He is still a great captain, leads from the front and the team respect him and I love playing under him.'' "I played under many different captains, Brendon was the extreme and Kane has his own unique style... Brendon would want to set very attacking fields throughout the whole match and Kane would pick his moments when he wants to attack," said Taylor. Taylor said he expected a high-scoring match at The Riverside Ground after Sri Lanka beat West Indies by 23 runs at the same venue on Monday, with both teams scoring 300-plus runs. "I think it will be a good wicket," Taylor added. "I think we saw yesterday (in the) Sri Lanka-West Indies (game), 300 played 300. So I think we've got to expect... scores of 300-plus. "But in saying that, both teams have got very good bowling lineups that can exploit conditions if suited and vice versa some very powerful batting lineups as well." A win against England will seal a semi-final spot for the Kiwis but - placed three points behind Australia - they cannot top the standings. However, Taylor said a top-four finish was their primary target and not their seeding for the semi-final fixtures. "We said at the start of the tournament, it doesn't matter if you go on as the first seed or the fourth seed as long as you make the semi-finals," the 35-year-old said. "Once you make the semi-finals, you know you are only two games away," Taylor said.

Ross Taylor slams skipper Kane Williamson's critics ahead of New Zealand vs England clash

Bangladesh's high court has granted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/climate-change-blights-childrens-lives-in-bangladesh-208060">country's rivers</a> the rights and status of "living entities" in a bid to save them from encroachment, a lawyer said Tuesday.

The court on Monday published a landmark verdict on a 2016 petition filed by a Dhaka-based rights group, saying all of the country's hundreds of rivers would now be treated as legal persons, litigator Manzil Murshid said.

"We filed the petition to save our rivers from powerful encroachers. The court has declared that all the rivers should now have the same rights as legal persons or living entities," he told AFP.

The verdict came just months after the country, much of it crisscrossed by thousands of streams, tributaries and rivers, became the fourth nation after Colombia, India and New Zealand to honour its waterways with such status.

The court appointed the country's River Conservation Commission as the legal guardian of all waterways and directed other state agencies to fully assist them.

Experts said the verdict would save rivers from illegal encroachment in the densely populated country of 165 million people and where land is precious as gold. 
They said many of the country's rivers are struggling to survive thanks to illegal sand dredging and large-scale industrial pollution.

"This verdict is very good news for us. We hope the commission can now work freely and save the rivers from premature deaths," said Sheikh Rokon, a spokesman for the Riverine People group.

He said the high court would empower the commission to take strict action against encroachers, polluters and illegal dredging companies.

National River Conservation Commission of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasinas-8-year-old-grandson-killed-in-shangri-la-hotel-blast-212627">Bangladesh</a> chairman Mujibur Rahman Howlader said the "unprecedented order would help the vast ecology and biodiversity" of Bangladesh's rich river system.

"We feel strengthened. It reminds us the rivers are not anybody's property. We can now enforce a zero-tolerance policy against encroachers," he told AFP.

Bangladesh's river transport authority has already started a massive eviction drive along the banks of the rivers around the capital Dhaka, demolishing over 4,000 illegal establishments since January.

The authorities have recovered some 190 acres (77 hectares) of land during the drive.

Most of Bangladesh's rivers are branches and tributaries of two main Himalayan rivers the Ganges and the Brahmaputra which flow through Bangladesh before reaching the Bay of Bengal.

Bangladesh's high court has granted the country's rivers the rights and status of "living entities" in a bid to save them from encroachment, a lawyer said Tuesday.

Bangladesh's high court has granted the country's rivers the rights and status of "living entities" in a bid to save them from encroachment, a lawyer said Tuesday. The court on Monday published a landmark verdict on a 2016 petition filed by a Dhaka-based rights group, saying all of the country's hundreds of rivers would now be treated as legal persons, litigator Manzil Murshid said. "We filed the petition to save our rivers from powerful encroachers. The court has declared that all the rivers should now have the same rights as legal persons or living entities," he told AFP. The verdict came just months after the country, much of it crisscrossed by thousands of streams, tributaries and rivers, became the fourth nation after Colombia, India and New Zealand to honour its waterways with such status. The court appointed the country's River Conservation Commission as the legal guardian of all waterways and directed other state agencies to fully assist them. Experts said the verdict would save rivers from illegal encroachment in the densely populated country of 165 million people and where land is precious as gold. They said many of the country's rivers are struggling to survive thanks to illegal sand dredging and large-scale industrial pollution. "This verdict is very good news for us. We hope the commission can now work freely and save the rivers from premature deaths," said Sheikh Rokon, a spokesman for the Riverine People group. He said the high court would empower the commission to take strict action against encroachers, polluters and illegal dredging companies. National River Conservation Commission of Bangladesh chairman Mujibur Rahman Howlader said the "unprecedented order would help the vast ecology and biodiversity" of Bangladesh's rich river system. "We feel strengthened. It reminds us the rivers are not anybody's property. We can now enforce a zero-tolerance policy against encroachers," he told AFP. Bangladesh's river transport authority has already started a massive eviction drive along the banks of the rivers around the capital Dhaka, demolishing over 4,000 illegal establishments since January. The authorities have recovered some 190 acres (77 hectares) of land during the drive. Most of Bangladesh's rivers are branches and tributaries of two main Himalayan rivers the Ganges and the Brahmaputra which flow through Bangladesh before reaching the Bay of Bengal.

Bangladesh declares its rivers 'legal persons'

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New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has spent plenty of time with Australian batsman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-i-thrive-on-crowd-booing-i-love-it-says-australias-david-warner-230818&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_rMvZ_Y3jAhUIP48KHfrbBkY4ChAWMAF6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0I5NFSkHL0D3RgDTN3mf7y">David Warner</a> over the years and needed no reminding on Friday of the danger faced in Saturday's World Cup clash at Lord's.

The pair have played together in Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League.

"Day-in, day-out, he's one of the top players for a reason," Williamson told reporters.

"He's been instrumental on the Australian side, he's adapted his game and been able to help put his side in a position of strength,'' said Williamson.

"We know he's a very good player. We want to still worry about us and what we want to achieve with the ball in hand, with the bat, and always importantly for us, it's how we operate with our attitude in the field as well," he added.

Australia have already secured their spot in the last four while neighbours New Zealand, unbeaten in their first six games of the tournament, are third in the standings but have yet to play hosts England.

A win over Australia would see the Black Caps through and represent a strong recovery from their six-wicket loss to Pakistan at Edgbaston on Wednesday.

Warner currently heads the runs table with 500, ahead of Australia captain Aaron Finch on 496. Williamson ranks fifth on 414.

"It will be a really good atmosphere," promised Williamson, who said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistans-shaheen-afridi-tears-through-new-zealand-top-order-230632&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjR_azs_Y3jAhVLrY8KHfwlCtAQFjABegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Wlh3LfXmSCzB-0Jm8WmbI">New Zealand</a> would assess the conditions carefully before confirming the side.

"Sometimes I think we've seen in the last few games that looking to blast teams out, perhaps with the use of seam movement and these sorts of things, it hasn't quite been there, and it's been about playing the long game a little bit," he said.

"They have been playing really good cricket... but when you come to a World Cup, or any tournament, anybody can beat anybody and we've seen that on different occasions already in this tournament," Williamson said.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has spent plenty of time with Australian batsman David Warner over the years and needed no reminding on Friday of the danger faced in Saturday's World Cup clash at Lord's.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has spent plenty of time with Australian batsman David Warner over the years and needed no reminding on Friday of the danger faced in Saturday's World Cup clash at Lord's. The pair have played together in Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League. "Day-in, day-out, he's one of the top players for a reason," Williamson told reporters. "He's been instrumental on the Australian side, he's adapted his game and been able to help put his side in a position of strength,'' said Williamson. "We know he's a very good player. We want to still worry about us and what we want to achieve with the ball in hand, with the bat, and always importantly for us, it's how we operate with our attitude in the field as well," he added. Australia have already secured their spot in the last four while neighbours New Zealand, unbeaten in their first six games of the tournament, are third in the standings but have yet to play hosts England. A win over Australia would see the Black Caps through and represent a strong recovery from their six-wicket loss to Pakistan at Edgbaston on Wednesday. Warner currently heads the runs table with 500, ahead of Australia captain Aaron Finch on 496. Williamson ranks fifth on 414. "It will be a really good atmosphere," promised Williamson, who said New Zealand would assess the conditions carefully before confirming the side. "Sometimes I think we've seen in the last few games that looking to blast teams out, perhaps with the use of seam movement and these sorts of things, it hasn't quite been there, and it's been about playing the long game a little bit," he said. "They have been playing really good cricket... but when you come to a World Cup, or any tournament, anybody can beat anybody and we've seen that on different occasions already in this tournament," Williamson said.

World Cup: Australia take on New Zealand in Trans-Tasman clash

England's players-turned-pundits are paid to criticise the team and are waiting for the hosts to fail at the Cricket World Cup, opening batsman Jonny Bairstow has said.

Defeats to Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Australia have left England in a precarious position and they are yet to seal a semi-final spot with two group stage matches remaining against India and New Zealand.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-england-skipper-eoin-morgan-says-fielding-let-team-down-in-loss-against-pakistan-224075&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWtfrp2IvjAhUW3Y8KHb-zDlEQFjAIegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1wUKURUkBUq7mUzhK6XAGO">England </a>have not defeated either side at the World Cup since 1992 and former skipper Michael Vaughan suggested it could be the hosts' worst-ever campaign in the tournament if they are knocked out.

"People are waiting for us to fail. They are not willing us on to win. In many ways, they are waiting for you to lose so they can jump on your throat. It's just showbiz, they are paid to have an opinion and if they don't have an opinion they get sacked,'' Bairstow said.

"I was in a radio interview and was surprised with a clip of Vaughan's comments. Bloody hell, that's pretty rich. Everyone is talking like we are eighth or ninth in the table. Bloody Nora, chill out... You're panicking. The comments and things like that, you can give it too much air time and then all of a sudden, before you know it, it's a big thing and it's actually really not," he added.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-afghanistan-by-150-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-228503&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWtfrp2IvjAhUW3Y8KHb-zDlEQFjAGegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0gx9ceuGy8X3qS-2z7pwPc">England's </a>next game is at Edgbaston on Sunday against an unbeaten Indian side that leapfrogged the hosts to become the number one ranked one-day international (ODI) side this week.

England prevented India from winning a 10th consecutive bilateral ODI series when Virat Kohli's side toured the country last year.

Despite criticism about their approach at the World Cup, Bairstow said England would stick to their style and play the same aggressive cricket that has brought them success.

"It's going to be interesting against India, we obviously know the following that they've got and it should be a cracking atmosphere," the 29-year-old added.

"Last summer we played really good cricket against them and we won that series and we won it well, so I think we go about it the same way we went about it and have been going about our cricket. Our method doesn't change," Bairstow said.

England's players-turned-pundits are paid to criticise the team and are waiting for the hosts to fail at the Cricket World Cup, opening batsman Jonny Bairstow has said.

England's players-turned-pundits are paid to criticise the team and are waiting for the hosts to fail at the Cricket World Cup, opening batsman Jonny Bairstow has said. Defeats to Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Australia have left England in a precarious position and they are yet to seal a semi-final spot with two group stage matches remaining against India and New Zealand. England have not defeated either side at the World Cup since 1992 and former skipper Michael Vaughan suggested it could be the hosts' worst-ever campaign in the tournament if they are knocked out. "People are waiting for us to fail. They are not willing us on to win. In many ways, they are waiting for you to lose so they can jump on your throat. It's just showbiz, they are paid to have an opinion and if they don't have an opinion they get sacked,'' Bairstow said. "I was in a radio interview and was surprised with a clip of Vaughan's comments. Bloody hell, that's pretty rich. Everyone is talking like we are eighth or ninth in the table. Bloody Nora, chill out... You're panicking. The comments and things like that, you can give it too much air time and then all of a sudden, before you know it, it's a big thing and it's actually really not," he added. England's next game is at Edgbaston on Sunday against an unbeaten Indian side that leapfrogged the hosts to become the number one ranked one-day international (ODI) side this week. England prevented India from winning a 10th consecutive bilateral ODI series when Virat Kohli's side toured the country last year. Despite criticism about their approach at the World Cup, Bairstow said England would stick to their style and play the same aggressive cricket that has brought them success. "It's going to be interesting against India, we obviously know the following that they've got and it should be a cracking atmosphere," the 29-year-old added. "Last summer we played really good cricket against them and we won that series and we won it well, so I think we go about it the same way we went about it and have been going about our cricket. Our method doesn't change," Bairstow said.

World Cup: 'People are waiting for us to fail', says England's Jonny Bairstow

Twenty-seven years and a generation apart, Pakistan's World Cup bears striking similarities with their 1992 campaign -&nbsp;when they started slowly but ended up lifting the trophy in Melbourne.&nbsp;

An identical sequence of wins and losses and other eerie parallels have struck a chord with millions of fans who believe that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-after-defeating-new-zealand-by-six-wickets-230695">Pakistan </a>could be set to come out on top once again.

In both World Cups, Pakistan started with a one-sided defeat to the West Indies, before recovering to win their second game -&nbsp;against Zimbabwe in 1992, and England this time around.

At both tournaments, their third game was rained off and they then went on to lose their next two games and win the following two.

Not only that, but the final win in both sequences was against New Zealand, who were unbeaten in both 1992 and 2019 until they ran into Pakistan.

"It was same, the same sequence of results, points and then we wanted Australia to beat the West Indies for us to qualify," said legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram, who played for Pakistan in 1992.

"Then also we beat New Zealand – who was unbeaten then too. A lot of similarities, I hope the end result is also similar now and we win the World Cup," said Wasim, now a TV commentator.

In another similarity, Wasim was the leading wicket-taker in 1992 with 18 and another Pakistan left-arm pacer, Mohammad Amir, is second on the bowler's chart with 16 so far.

"I am not sure if players are following all these (discussions) but this should motivate them," said Wasim.

But Pakistan skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-saw-my-wife-crying-after-watching-the-fat-shaming-video-sarfaraz-ahmed-230683">Sarfaraz Ahmed</a> played down any parallels with 1992.

"That's history but after we won against New Zealand someone told me that even in 1992 we chased down New Zealand's target with five balls to spare," said Sarfaraz, whose team reached their 238-run target in 49.1 overs on Wednesday.

Fans are now hoping that the similarities don't end there, and even that they continue beyond the World Cup.

"Imran Khan was Pakistan captain in 1992 World Cup and 26 years after that triumph he became country's prime minister, so Sarfaraz should also join politics and become premier in 2045," said one comment on social media.

Twenty-seven years and a generation apart, Pakistan's World Cup bears striking similarities with their 1992 campaign - when they started slowly but ended up lifting the trophy in Melbourne.

Twenty-seven years and a generation apart, Pakistan's World Cup bears striking similarities with their 1992 campaign - when they started slowly but ended up lifting the trophy in Melbourne. An identical sequence of wins and losses and other eerie parallels have struck a chord with millions of fans who believe that Pakistan could be set to come out on top once again. In both World Cups, Pakistan started with a one-sided defeat to the West Indies, before recovering to win their second game - against Zimbabwe in 1992, and England this time around. At both tournaments, their third game was rained off and they then went on to lose their next two games and win the following two. Not only that, but the final win in both sequences was against New Zealand, who were unbeaten in both 1992 and 2019 until they ran into Pakistan. "It was same, the same sequence of results, points and then we wanted Australia to beat the West Indies for us to qualify," said legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram, who played for Pakistan in 1992. "Then also we beat New Zealand – who was unbeaten then too. A lot of similarities, I hope the end result is also similar now and we win the World Cup," said Wasim, now a TV commentator. In another similarity, Wasim was the leading wicket-taker in 1992 with 18 and another Pakistan left-arm pacer, Mohammad Amir, is second on the bowler's chart with 16 so far. "I am not sure if players are following all these (discussions) but this should motivate them," said Wasim. But Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed played down any parallels with 1992. "That's history but after we won against New Zealand someone told me that even in 1992 we chased down New Zealand's target with five balls to spare," said Sarfaraz, whose team reached their 238-run target in 49.1 overs on Wednesday. Fans are now hoping that the similarities don't end there, and even that they continue beyond the World Cup. "Imran Khan was Pakistan captain in 1992 World Cup and 26 years after that triumph he became country's prime minister, so Sarfaraz should also join politics and become premier in 2045," said one comment on social media.

Pakistan on identical 1992 World Cup path after beating New Zealand

New Zealand's Mitchell Santner admitted that his team could not read the pitch properly and missed the services of a second spinner against Pakistan in Wednesday's World Cup match.

Santner said the Kiwis thought the wicket would suit pace bowlers at Edgbaston.

"Obviously, there was a bit of turn out there, probably more than we thought there would be. Obviously at the toss, only going with one spinner, we thought it might be a bit better than that," Santner said.

In the absence of legspinner Ish Sodhi, New Zealand went with the part-time off-spin of skipper Kane Willaimson, who returned with figures of 1-39.

The Kiwis were visibly helpless and frustrated as they could not break the 126-run stand between Haris Sohail and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-babar-azam-says-belief-is-key-for-pakistan-230779"> Babar Azam</a> until the penultimate over when it was too late as Pakistan needed just two runs off 10 balls.

Santner, however, credited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-on-identical-1992-world-cup-path-after-beating-new-zealand-230750">Pakistan's </a>batting in the middle overs.

He also lauded the match-winning partnership between Haris and Babar.

"It's the spinner's role to take wickets on a surface like that but I think credit has to go to the way Pakistan batted throughout the middle. That partnership through the middle there was pretty special. There were a couple of chances there but it's about trying to build up pressure from both ends and stuff like that, but the way they were able to manipulate the field, and get their ones, when you're only chasing 230, is the way to go about it," Santner said.

On the third ball of the 49th over, Haris fell short of his ground as Martin Guptill ran him out.

However, on the first ball of the last over, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-after-defeating-new-zealand-by-six-wickets-230695">Pakistan </a>skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed hit the winning boundary in a match that was must-win for the Men in Green.

"I think we fought pretty well to the end and I guess they only got it in the last over. It was obviously a tough surface and we just had to stick at it. If we could put a couple on it, a couple of wickets on throughout that chase it might have been a little bit different," he said.

Had New Zealand won the match they would have booked their spot in the semi-finals.

The Kiwis would aim to beat Australia on June 29 at Lord's to enter the knock-out stage.

New Zealand's Mitchell Santner admitted that his team could not read the pitch properly and missed the services of a second spinner against Pakistan in Wednesday's World Cup match.

New Zealand's Mitchell Santner admitted that his team could not read the pitch properly and missed the services of a second spinner against Pakistan in Wednesday's World Cup match. Santner said the Kiwis thought the wicket would suit pace bowlers at Edgbaston. "Obviously, there was a bit of turn out there, probably more than we thought there would be. Obviously at the toss, only going with one spinner, we thought it might be a bit better than that," Santner said. In the absence of legspinner Ish Sodhi, New Zealand went with the part-time off-spin of skipper Kane Willaimson, who returned with figures of 1-39. The Kiwis were visibly helpless and frustrated as they could not break the 126-run stand between Haris Sohail and Babar Azam until the penultimate over when it was too late as Pakistan needed just two runs off 10 balls. Santner, however, credited Pakistan's batting in the middle overs. He also lauded the match-winning partnership between Haris and Babar. "It's the spinner's role to take wickets on a surface like that but I think credit has to go to the way Pakistan batted throughout the middle. That partnership through the middle there was pretty special. There were a couple of chances there but it's about trying to build up pressure from both ends and stuff like that, but the way they were able to manipulate the field, and get their ones, when you're only chasing 230, is the way to go about it," Santner said. On the third ball of the 49th over, Haris fell short of his ground as Martin Guptill ran him out. However, on the first ball of the last over, Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed hit the winning boundary in a match that was must-win for the Men in Green. "I think we fought pretty well to the end and I guess they only got it in the last over. It was obviously a tough surface and we just had to stick at it. If we could put a couple on it, a couple of wickets on throughout that chase it might have been a little bit different," he said. Had New Zealand won the match they would have booked their spot in the semi-finals. The Kiwis would aim to beat Australia on June 29 at Lord's to enter the knock-out stage.

World Cup: Needed a second spinner, says Mitchell Santner after loss to Pakistan

Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood questioned New Zealand's ability to win the biggest matches ahead of World Cup clash in Birmingham, while Mitchell Santner said New Zealand could not afford to take "dangerous" Pakistan lightly.

Pakistan have a good record in matches between the two sides, winning six of their eight World Cup encounters, including semi-final victories in 1992 and in the 1999 edition, also in England. 
 
Kane Williamson's side are undefeated at the tournament in England and Wales, with five wins in six games, plus one no result.

In contrast, <a href="http://13.232.42.114/sports/world-cup-wanted-to-commit-suicide-mickey-arthur-after-pakistans-defeat-against-india-230449">Pakistan </a>must win the match at Edgbaston if they are to maintain a realistic chance of reaching the semi-finals after a poor start to the tournament.

Mahmood, a former all-rounder who played in three World Cups for Pakistan, said New Zealand had a good record early in tournaments but often wilted under pressure at the business end.

"New Zealand's history is such that they get there winning, winning and then when a crunch situation comes up, in the semi-final, or quarter-final, they don't do that well," Mahmood said on Tuesday.

"It can happen to any team. Everyone has to have a bad day. Hopefully New Zealand have it tomorrow," Mahmood said.

Mahmood praised in-form paceman Mohammad Amir, who has taken 15 wickets in five matches.

"His skills and ability have always been exceptional," added&nbsp;Mahmood.&nbsp; 
 
Mitchell Santner said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-new-zealands-fiery-ferguson-eager-to-unsettle-west-indies-big-hitters-229435&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMtou-uobjAhUJKo8KHenPBhEQFjAFegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0H0Z-4JijpDn086p-g7lpu">New Zealand</a> could not afford to take "dangerous" Pakistan lightly as they attempt to seal their place in the World Cup semi-finals in Birmingham.

Unbeaten New Zealand have 11 points from five victories and a rained-off game while Pakistan must win to keep alive their chances of qualifying for the last four.

Santner praised Pakistan's varied bowling attack.

"Their bowling attack, on the whole, is very good. They've got some very good seam bowlers as well as spin bowlers. We're aware of their strengths, and I think Wahab (Riaz) back into their team is very good for them.(Mohammad) Amir is bowling very well as well," said Santner.

"When they're hot, they're really hot. We have to, obviously, find ways of trying to cool them down when they're like that," Santner added.&nbsp;

Santner said Pakistan, who have lost three matches at the World Cup so far, had the ability to raise their game despite their troubles.

"They took down England and took down South Africa the other day," he said.

Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood questioned New Zealand's ability to win the biggest matches ahead of World Cup clash in Birmingham, while Mitchell Santner said New Zealand could not afford to take "dangerous" Pakistan lightly.

Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood questioned New Zealand's ability to win the biggest matches ahead of World Cup clash in Birmingham, while Mitchell Santner said New Zealand could not afford to take "dangerous" Pakistan lightly. Pakistan have a good record in matches between the two sides, winning six of their eight World Cup encounters, including semi-final victories in 1992 and in the 1999 edition, also in England. Kane Williamson's side are undefeated at the tournament in England and Wales, with five wins in six games, plus one no result. In contrast, Pakistan must win the match at Edgbaston if they are to maintain a realistic chance of reaching the semi-finals after a poor start to the tournament. Mahmood, a former all-rounder who played in three World Cups for Pakistan, said New Zealand had a good record early in tournaments but often wilted under pressure at the business end. "New Zealand's history is such that they get there winning, winning and then when a crunch situation comes up, in the semi-final, or quarter-final, they don't do that well," Mahmood said on Tuesday. "It can happen to any team. Everyone has to have a bad day. Hopefully New Zealand have it tomorrow," Mahmood said. Mahmood praised in-form paceman Mohammad Amir, who has taken 15 wickets in five matches. "His skills and ability have always been exceptional," added Mahmood. Mitchell Santner said New Zealand could not afford to take "dangerous" Pakistan lightly as they attempt to seal their place in the World Cup semi-finals in Birmingham. Unbeaten New Zealand have 11 points from five victories and a rained-off game while Pakistan must win to keep alive their chances of qualifying for the last four. Santner praised Pakistan's varied bowling attack. "Their bowling attack, on the whole, is very good. They've got some very good seam bowlers as well as spin bowlers. We're aware of their strengths, and I think Wahab (Riaz) back into their team is very good for them.(Mohammad) Amir is bowling very well as well," said Santner. "When they're hot, they're really hot. We have to, obviously, find ways of trying to cool them down when they're like that," Santner added. Santner said Pakistan, who have lost three matches at the World Cup so far, had the ability to raise their game despite their troubles. "They took down England and took down South Africa the other day," he said.

World Cup: Pakistan face battle of survival against unbeaten New Zealand

The weather forecast for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-new-zealands-fiery-ferguson-eager-to-unsettle-west-indies-big-hitters-229435&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCr4Cqw4bjAhWJvI8KHf_6A9MQFjAGegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0hJxbvixGNnEt3PjYkS3Ew">New Zealand</a>&nbsp;vs&nbsp;Pakistan match at Edgbaston in Birmingham looks to please the players and fans as the full game of 50-overs a side is expected without any interruptions by rain.

Kane Williamson's side are undefeated at the World Cup, with five wins in six games, plus one no result and will be looking to seal a spot in the semi-finals with a win at Edgbaston.

In contrast, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-wanted-to-commit-suicide-mickey-arthur-after-pakistans-defeat-against-india-230449&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwib9NSaw4bjAhVPinAKHQIaBasQFjAGegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1diEjgcS2yHFzvEXQD4GbF">Pakistan </a>must win this&nbsp;match at Edgbaston if they want to maintain a realistic chance of reaching the semi-finals after a poor start to the tournament.

There was rain in Birmingham on Tuesday but the skies are expected to be clear for the match today.&nbsp;

Weather forecasts show that there would be cloud cover in the morning but that they shall clear away around noon and that skies will continue to clear leading up to the match.

The chances of rain are negligible and a full 50-overs a side contest will take place between Pakistan and New Zealand.

The game is likely to be played without any stoppages due to bad weather.

The weather forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan match at Edgbaston in Birmingham looks to please the players and fans as the full game of 50-overs a side is expected without any interruptions by rain.

The weather forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan match at Edgbaston in Birmingham looks to please the players and fans as the full game of 50-overs a side is expected without any interruptions by rain. Kane Williamson's side are undefeated at the World Cup, with five wins in six games, plus one no result and will be looking to seal a spot in the semi-finals with a win at Edgbaston. In contrast, Pakistan must win this match at Edgbaston if they want to maintain a realistic chance of reaching the semi-finals after a poor start to the tournament. There was rain in Birmingham on Tuesday but the skies are expected to be clear for the match today. Weather forecasts show that there would be cloud cover in the morning but that they shall clear away around noon and that skies will continue to clear leading up to the match. The chances of rain are negligible and a full 50-overs a side contest will take place between Pakistan and New Zealand. The game is likely to be played without any stoppages due to bad weather.

World Cup: Birmingham weather forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan clash

New Zealand have won the toss and skipper Kane Williamson opted to bat first against Pakistan at Edgbaston.

New Zealand are unbeaten and placed second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result.

Earlier, the toss was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-start-delayed-in-new-zealand-vs-pakistan-match-230588">delayed due to a wet outfield</a> but no overs will be deducted from the 50-over-a-side match.

New Zealand (Playing XI):&nbsp; 
Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w), James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult 
 
Pakistan (Playing XI):&nbsp; 
Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Haris Sohail, Sarfaraz Ahmed(w/c), Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, Shaheen Afridi

The game is set to begin at 12:00pm (1100 GMT).

New Zealand have won the toss and skipper Kane Williamson opted to bat first against Pakistan at Edgbaston. New Zealand are unbeaten and placed second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result.

New Zealand have won the toss and skipper Kane Williamson opted to bat first against Pakistan at Edgbaston. New Zealand are unbeaten and placed second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result. Earlier, the toss was delayed due to a wet outfield but no overs will be deducted from the 50-over-a-side match. New Zealand (Playing XI): Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w), James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult Pakistan (Playing XI): Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Haris Sohail, Sarfaraz Ahmed(w/c), Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, Shaheen Afridi The game is set to begin at 12:00pm (1100 GMT).

World Cup: New Zealand win toss, opt to bat against Pakistan

The crucial&nbsp;World Cup encounter&nbsp;between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-face-battle-of-survival-against-unbeaten-new-zealand-230494">Pakistan and New Zealand </a>at Edgbaston on Wednesday has been delayed due to wet outfield with the toss still not taken place.

The scheduled 10:00am (0900 GMT) toss was put back after an early inspection by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Bruce Oxenford of Australia.

Overnight rain had left the outfield wet and there will be another inspection at 10:30 am before taking a final decision on when to start the match.

Unbeaten New Zealand are second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result.

The toss is now scheduled for 11:30am (1030 GMT) with the game set to begin at 12:00pm (1100 GMT) with no overs lost.

The crucial World Cup encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at Edgbaston on Wednesday has been delayed due to wet outfield with the toss still not taken place.

The crucial World Cup encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at Edgbaston on Wednesday has been delayed due to wet outfield with the toss still not taken place. The scheduled 10:00am (0900 GMT) toss was put back after an early inspection by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Bruce Oxenford of Australia. Overnight rain had left the outfield wet and there will be another inspection at 10:30 am before taking a final decision on when to start the match. Unbeaten New Zealand are second on the 10-team table with 11 points, winning five matches and one no result while Pakistan are seventh with just two wins, three defeats and a no result. The toss is now scheduled for 11:30am (1030 GMT) with the game set to begin at 12:00pm (1100 GMT) with no overs lost.

World Cup: Wet outfield delays New Zealand vs Pakistan match

New Zealand boosted their bid to reach the World Cup semi-finals as Kane Williamson's 148 set up a dramatic five-run win over the West Indies on Saturday.

Williamson's imperious 154-ball innings laid the foundations for New Zealand's 291-8 at Old Trafford.

In a thrilling run-chase, West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite hit 101 from 82 balls to carry his team to the brink of victory before being caught on the boundary going for what would have been the winning six.

New Zealand are top of the 10-team table with five wins from six matches.

New Zealand boosted their bid to reach the World Cup semi-finals as Kane Williamson's 148 set up a dramatic five-run win over the West Indies on Saturday. Williamson's imperious 154-ball innings laid the foundations for New Zealand's 291-8 at Old Trafford.

New Zealand boosted their bid to reach the World Cup semi-finals as Kane Williamson's 148 set up a dramatic five-run win over the West Indies on Saturday. Williamson's imperious 154-ball innings laid the foundations for New Zealand's 291-8 at Old Trafford. In a thrilling run-chase, West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite hit 101 from 82 balls to carry his team to the brink of victory before being caught on the boundary going for what would have been the winning six. New Zealand are top of the 10-team table with five wins from six matches.

Carlos Brathwaite's century in vain as New Zealand beat West Indies by five runs

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is looking to give the West Indies a taste of their own medicine and take his side to the brink of the Cricket World Cup semi-finals in their clash at Old Trafford on Saturday.

West Indies have a barrage of quick bowlers, but <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-new-zealand-add-to-south-africas-stuttering-campaign-agony-228905&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjDjNK6uvziAhWFiHAKHcgrAzoQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1LM8T3BQDAvLBq-robpFrD">New Zealand's</a> seam attack is regarded by many as the best at the tournament.

Ferguson's bullet arm has bagged him 11 wickets in four games at an average under 15, and with a miserly economy-rate to boot.

Against an in-form West Indies top-order that includes Chris Gayle, Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran, Ferguson's extra pace on what is expected to be a good batting wicket in Manchester could be key.

"It's no secret that the West Indies have a powerful (batting) lineup all the way through," Ferguson told reporters.

"And as a bowling unit we need to learn, if they get on a roll, to shut down areas and build up pressure again and hopefully take wickets,"&nbsp;Ferguson said.

The two World Cup matches at Old Trafford so far saw India set Pakistan a victory target of 337, and England post 397 against Afghanistan, suggesting a wicket that provides little reward for bowlers.

"I'm not a traditional big swinger of the ball. So pace is sort of where I generated a bit of hesitation and try to put the batters under a bit of pressure," he said.

"They've got some exciting hitters. But of course, we've got to scout the ground as well. It's a big ground and it's a good wicket which often loads of runs are scored," said&nbsp;Ferguson.

Ferguson knows that the West Indies have some deadly quicks of their own and whoever's pace attack comes out on top in Manchester could decide the contest.

"It's nice to see some quick, aggressive bowling," he said. "The<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-englands-jofra-archer-reminds-west-indies-of-what-they-let-slip-away-227252&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjslsjwuvziAhURSo8KHa9BDbUQFjAFegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw16a4tBMsMfvivngD3J3yET"> West Indies</a> have been taking that approach the whole World Cup. And they've had a lot of success bowling in that sort of aggressive fashion. It's exciting to watch," added&nbsp;Ferguson.

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is looking to give the West Indies a taste of their own medicine and take his side to the brink of the Cricket World Cup semi-finals in their clash at Old Trafford on Saturday.

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is looking to give the West Indies a taste of their own medicine and take his side to the brink of the Cricket World Cup semi-finals in their clash at Old Trafford on Saturday. West Indies have a barrage of quick bowlers, but New Zealand's seam attack is regarded by many as the best at the tournament. Ferguson's bullet arm has bagged him 11 wickets in four games at an average under 15, and with a miserly economy-rate to boot. Against an in-form West Indies top-order that includes Chris Gayle, Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran, Ferguson's extra pace on what is expected to be a good batting wicket in Manchester could be key. "It's no secret that the West Indies have a powerful (batting) lineup all the way through," Ferguson told reporters. "And as a bowling unit we need to learn, if they get on a roll, to shut down areas and build up pressure again and hopefully take wickets," Ferguson said. The two World Cup matches at Old Trafford so far saw India set Pakistan a victory target of 337, and England post 397 against Afghanistan, suggesting a wicket that provides little reward for bowlers. "I'm not a traditional big swinger of the ball. So pace is sort of where I generated a bit of hesitation and try to put the batters under a bit of pressure," he said. "They've got some exciting hitters. But of course, we've got to scout the ground as well. It's a big ground and it's a good wicket which often loads of runs are scored," said Ferguson. Ferguson knows that the West Indies have some deadly quicks of their own and whoever's pace attack comes out on top in Manchester could decide the contest. "It's nice to see some quick, aggressive bowling," he said. "The West Indies have been taking that approach the whole World Cup. And they've had a lot of success bowling in that sort of aggressive fashion. It's exciting to watch," added Ferguson.

World Cup: New Zealand's Fiery Ferguson eager to unsettle West Indies’ big hitters

New Zealand's government on Thursday launched a multimillion-dollar, six-month "buy-back" scheme to compensate owners of powerful but newly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-votes-to-amend-gun-laws-after-christchurch-attack-209275">banned semi-automatic weapons</a> prohibited in the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-attack-gun-shop-owner-says-christchurch-suspect-bought-weapons-online-203970">deadly attacks on two mosques in the Southern city of Christchurch</a>.

Finance Minister Grant Robertson and Minister of Police Stuart Nash said in a joint emailed statement that NZ$208 million ($135.97 million) had been set aside to compensate owners of the banned semi-automatic firearms up to 95% of the original cost.

They would have until December 20 to hand in their weapons.

"Police have detailed plans in place for the next step, which is the collection of firearms from the community. It will be a huge logistical exercise and is expected to get underway in mid-July," Nash said.

Parliament passed the gun reform law - the first substantial changes to the country's gun laws in decades - by a vote of 119 to 1 in April.

The vote came less than a month after its worst-ever peacetime mass shooting in which 51 people were killed and dozens injured in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch.

The new curbs bar the circulation and use of most semi-automatic firearms, parts that convert firearms into semi-automatic firearms, magazines over a certain capacity and some shotguns.

Existing gun laws had provided for a standard "A-category" gun license covering semi-automatics limited to seven shots.

Police estimated around 14,300 military style semi-automatics would be covered by the new legislation, though the government said it was difficult to predict the exact number.

Almost 700 weapons had already been handed in before the compensation scheme was launched and almost 5,000 had been registered by owners with police while they awaited collection.

"There is high uncertainty around any (costs), owing to the lack of information on the number of prohibited items, their type and condition," Robertson said, adding that better estimates of the total cost would be available once the buy-back was underway and the government would top up the amount if needed.

The government has also begun work on a second arms amendment bill to tackle issues regarding a gun registry, among others. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told reporters on Monday that she expected the government to announce its plans for the law in the next few weeks.

With a population of just under 5 million, New Zealand is home to an estimated total of 1.5 million firearms, making it the country with the 17th highest rate of civilian firearm ownership in the world, according to the Small Arms Survey.

New Zealand's government on Thursday launched a multimillion-dollar, six-month "buy-back" scheme to compensate owners of powerful but newly banned semi-automatic weapons prohibited in the wake of deadly attacks on two mosques in the Southern city of Christchurch.

New Zealand's government on Thursday launched a multimillion-dollar, six-month "buy-back" scheme to compensate owners of powerful but newly banned semi-automatic weapons prohibited in the wake of deadly attacks on two mosques in the Southern city of Christchurch. Finance Minister Grant Robertson and Minister of Police Stuart Nash said in a joint emailed statement that NZ$208 million ($135.97 million) had been set aside to compensate owners of the banned semi-automatic firearms up to 95% of the original cost. They would have until December 20 to hand in their weapons. "Police have detailed plans in place for the next step, which is the collection of firearms from the community. It will be a huge logistical exercise and is expected to get underway in mid-July," Nash said. Parliament passed the gun reform law - the first substantial changes to the country's gun laws in decades - by a vote of 119 to 1 in April. The vote came less than a month after its worst-ever peacetime mass shooting in which 51 people were killed and dozens injured in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch. The new curbs bar the circulation and use of most semi-automatic firearms, parts that convert firearms into semi-automatic firearms, magazines over a certain capacity and some shotguns. Existing gun laws had provided for a standard "A-category" gun license covering semi-automatics limited to seven shots. Police estimated around 14,300 military style semi-automatics would be covered by the new legislation, though the government said it was difficult to predict the exact number. Almost 700 weapons had already been handed in before the compensation scheme was launched and almost 5,000 had been registered by owners with police while they awaited collection. "There is high uncertainty around any (costs), owing to the lack of information on the number of prohibited items, their type and condition," Robertson said, adding that better estimates of the total cost would be available once the buy-back was underway and the government would top up the amount if needed. The government has also begun work on a second arms amendment bill to tackle issues regarding a gun registry, among others. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told reporters on Monday that she expected the government to announce its plans for the law in the next few weeks. With a population of just under 5 million, New Zealand is home to an estimated total of 1.5 million firearms, making it the country with the 17th highest rate of civilian firearm ownership in the world, according to the Small Arms Survey.

New Zealand launches gun buy-back scheme for weapons banned after Christchurch attack

New Zealand's government on Thursday launched 'buy-back' scheme to compensate owners of powerful but newly banned semi-automatic weapons. Watch this video to know more.

New Zealand's new gun 'buy-back' scheme

Captain Faf du Plessis was left contemplating the ruins of another World Cup campaign on the ground where South Africa experienced their greatest heartache in the competition 20 years ago.

The Proteas' hopes of reaching the semi-finals in England and Wales are all but over after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-kane-williamson-unbeaten-century-guides-new-zealand-to-win-over-south-africa-228842">four-wicket defeat by New Zealand</a> on Wednesday.

One minor consolation is that the recriminations from Wednesday's reverse at Edgbaston are unlikely to be as great as those at Warwickshire's headquarters 20 years ago when a disastrous run-out saw them tie with Australia and miss out on the final due to an inferior net run rate.

South Africa are still alive at the World Cup but with just one win from six matches, it would take an extraordinary combination of results to see them into the semi-finals from a 10-team round-robin group phase.

On Wednesday, South Africa fought hard to get to 241 for six on a difficult pitch after losing the toss.

And it so very nearly proved enough, with New Zealand needing a superbly paced 106 not out from captain and star batsman Kane Williamson to see them home with just three balls to spare.

Fans of AB de Villiers will argue this proves the Proteas were wrong to refuse the gifted batsman's offer to come out of international retirement for the World Cup, but others will say the offer came far too late for it to be accepted by South Africa's selectors.

"Kane played a great knock, you know. It's probably the difference between the two sides, just one guy taking it through. You need someone to go further, and we haven't had that," said Du Plessis.&nbsp;

Inevitably, given their painful World Cup history, the question of whether South Africa "choked" on Wednesday is bound to be asked.

"Choking", however, implies squandering a winning position, whereas this match in Birmingham was more of a see-saw contest determined largely by Williamson's knock.

Stuttering campaign&nbsp; 
 
The New Zealand skipper is a world-class batsman and the truth is that South Africa's World Cup campaign was in trouble long before this fixture.

Losing Dale Steyn without the veteran fast bowler delivering a ball at the tournament was blow, but South Africa were gambling on the 35-year-old recovering from a longstanding shoulder injury.

Having tournament hosts England and another highly-fancied side in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-feel-emotional-says-shikhar-dhawan-after-injury-ends-his-world-cup-campaign-228775">India </a>as two of their early opponents meant South Africa had a tough start and it was no surprise when they lost both of those matches.

But what really derailed their campaign was a 21-run defeat by Bangladesh, where the Tigers piled up 330.

Several South Africa batsmen got starts in reply, including Du Plessis, who made 62, but nobody was able to play the major innings required.

The Proteas' painful history at the World Cup is littered with self-inflicted wounds.

As well as the 1999 run-out debacle, they exited in 2003 after misunderstanding the rules governing rain-affected matches and made the controversial decision to drop Kyle Abbott for what turned out to be a nailbiting semi-final loss to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-25-new-zealand-vs-south-africa-228634"> New Zealand</a> four years ago.

South Africa did not help themselves on Wednesday when Williamson, who had then made 76, got a thin edge off Imran Tahir to wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock.

The Proteas did not request a review, only for replays to show a nick.

"I think I was at long on at the time, and Quinny is the closest to the action. That's not where the game was won and lost," said Du Plessis.&nbsp;

This World Cup could well mark the last appearance at the global showpiece for players in their mid-30s such as Du Plessis and Proteas opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-hashim-amla-becomes-second-fastest-batsman-to-register-8000-odi-runs-228825">Hashim Amla</a>, who never really got back to his best after being hit on the head by a bouncer from England's Jofra Archer.

"If you look at our batting unit, we've got some future talent and some promising players, but if you put our top six and you put the other top sixes around the world, purely on a numbers point of view, we won't be in the top three," admitted Du Plessis.&nbsp;

Captain Faf du Plessis was left contemplating the ruins of another World Cup campaign on the ground where South Africa experienced their greatest heartache in the competition 20 years ago.

Captain Faf du Plessis was left contemplating the ruins of another World Cup campaign on the ground where South Africa experienced their greatest heartache in the competition 20 years ago. The Proteas' hopes of reaching the semi-finals in England and Wales are all but over after a four-wicket defeat by New Zealand on Wednesday. One minor consolation is that the recriminations from Wednesday's reverse at Edgbaston are unlikely to be as great as those at Warwickshire's headquarters 20 years ago when a disastrous run-out saw them tie with Australia and miss out on the final due to an inferior net run rate. South Africa are still alive at the World Cup but with just one win from six matches, it would take an extraordinary combination of results to see them into the semi-finals from a 10-team round-robin group phase. On Wednesday, South Africa fought hard to get to 241 for six on a difficult pitch after losing the toss. And it so very nearly proved enough, with New Zealand needing a superbly paced 106 not out from captain and star batsman Kane Williamson to see them home with just three balls to spare. Fans of AB de Villiers will argue this proves the Proteas were wrong to refuse the gifted batsman's offer to come out of international retirement for the World Cup, but others will say the offer came far too late for it to be accepted by South Africa's selectors. "Kane played a great knock, you know. It's probably the difference between the two sides, just one guy taking it through. You need someone to go further, and we haven't had that," said Du Plessis. Inevitably, given their painful World Cup history, the question of whether South Africa "choked" on Wednesday is bound to be asked. "Choking", however, implies squandering a winning position, whereas this match in Birmingham was more of a see-saw contest determined largely by Williamson's knock. Stuttering campaign The New Zealand skipper is a world-class batsman and the truth is that South Africa's World Cup campaign was in trouble long before this fixture. Losing Dale Steyn without the veteran fast bowler delivering a ball at the tournament was blow, but South Africa were gambling on the 35-year-old recovering from a longstanding shoulder injury. Having tournament hosts England and another highly-fancied side in India as two of their early opponents meant South Africa had a tough start and it was no surprise when they lost both of those matches. But what really derailed their campaign was a 21-run defeat by Bangladesh, where the Tigers piled up 330. Several South Africa batsmen got starts in reply, including Du Plessis, who made 62, but nobody was able to play the major innings required. The Proteas' painful history at the World Cup is littered with self-inflicted wounds. As well as the 1999 run-out debacle, they exited in 2003 after misunderstanding the rules governing rain-affected matches and made the controversial decision to drop Kyle Abbott for what turned out to be a nailbiting semi-final loss to New Zealand four years ago. South Africa did not help themselves on Wednesday when Williamson, who had then made 76, got a thin edge off Imran Tahir to wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock. The Proteas did not request a review, only for replays to show a nick. "I think I was at long on at the time, and Quinny is the closest to the action. That's not where the game was won and lost," said Du Plessis. This World Cup could well mark the last appearance at the global showpiece for players in their mid-30s such as Du Plessis and Proteas opener Hashim Amla, who never really got back to his best after being hit on the head by a bouncer from England's Jofra Archer. "If you look at our batting unit, we've got some future talent and some promising players, but if you put our top six and you put the other top sixes around the world, purely on a numbers point of view, we won't be in the top three," admitted Du Plessis.

World Cup: New Zealand add to South Africa's stuttering campaign agony

Amid all the controversy regarding <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-offered-to-come-out-of-retirement-for-world-cup-224906&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHmtrc9PTiAhVEpY8KHUvSBPIQFjAAegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1RjaT-t-b8y6Kqbk8RupFH">AB de Villiers</a> wanting to feature in the Cricket World Cup, New Zealand pacer Trent Boult said that it would have been 'awesome'&nbsp;to play against him.

"I really enjoy bowling to the likes of the ABs, Chris Gayles, the Virat Kohlis. I'm sure every bowler does. They grow up wanting to play this game for a reason, and that's to challenge yourself against the best players in the world. In my opinion, AB is still one of those players. It would be awesome to be playing against him," Sport24.ca.za quoted Boult as saying.

Soon after <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-regrets-south-africa-on-turning-down-ab-de-villiers-approach-224972&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHmtrc9PTiAhVEpY8KHUvSBPIQFjACegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TbDK3PHnQwnQP5_UM_iLB">De Villiers</a> expressed his desire to play in the premier tournament, his offer was rejected.

Even skipper Faf du Plessis opined over the issue saying that De Villiers'&nbsp;offer came in too late to consider.

Boult comments came ahead of his side's World Cup clash against South Africa.

The Proteas have been on a dismal run in the tournament as they have only managed to win one match whereas, New Zealand, on the other side, have defeated all the team they have played against and are unbeaten so far in the tournament.

Although Boult denied putting out his opinions on South Africa's cricket, he admitted that it would have been great to see De Villiers in the tournament.

"I don't have too many opinions on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-desperate-south-africa-can-beat-new-zealand-says-bowling-coach-claude-henderson-228317&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBycq49fTiAhUKTY8KHQMhAaoQFjAFegQIDRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3E_kwd7Vfsih9N8w_x_7nl">South Africa's</a> cricket ... to do what they do and play who they want to play, but it would have been great to see him here," he said.

New Zealand compete&nbsp;against South Africa on June 19.

Amid all the controversy regarding AB de Villiers wanting to feature in the Cricket World Cup, New Zealand pacer Trent Boult said that it would have been 'awesome' to play against him.

Amid all the controversy regarding AB de Villiers wanting to feature in the Cricket World Cup, New Zealand pacer Trent Boult said that it would have been 'awesome' to play against him. "I really enjoy bowling to the likes of the ABs, Chris Gayles, the Virat Kohlis. I'm sure every bowler does. They grow up wanting to play this game for a reason, and that's to challenge yourself against the best players in the world. In my opinion, AB is still one of those players. It would be awesome to be playing against him," Sport24.ca.za quoted Boult as saying. Soon after De Villiers expressed his desire to play in the premier tournament, his offer was rejected. Even skipper Faf du Plessis opined over the issue saying that De Villiers' offer came in too late to consider. Boult comments came ahead of his side's World Cup clash against South Africa. The Proteas have been on a dismal run in the tournament as they have only managed to win one match whereas, New Zealand, on the other side, have defeated all the team they have played against and are unbeaten so far in the tournament. Although Boult denied putting out his opinions on South Africa's cricket, he admitted that it would have been great to see De Villiers in the tournament. "I don't have too many opinions on South Africa's cricket ... to do what they do and play who they want to play, but it would have been great to see him here," he said. New Zealand compete against South Africa on June 19.

World Cup: Trent Boult says 'it would be awesome' to play against AB de Villiers

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