Pakistan entered the Asia Cup 2023 edition as the No. 1 ranked ODI side and were off to a solid start. However, their campaign fell apart in the Super Four stage with a heavy defeat versus arch-rivals India, losing by 228 runs, before throwing away a thrilling contest against&nbsp;Sri Lanka&nbsp;by two wickets (DLS method), to bow out of the multi-nation event. With the ODI World Cup to kick off early next month in India, on October 05, Pakistan are under pressure. Captain Babar Azam has also drawn a lot of criticism for falling short in terms of tactics in crunch situations in the Asia Cup. However, he has found the backing of stalwarts such as Javed Miandad and Misbah-ul-Haq.&nbsp;

<h2>'Our team is not as bad as it played in the Asia Cup'</h2>

Speaking to the media at a match of the 40's Global Cricket Event, both Miandad and Misbah have urged the country's cricket authorities to not panic ahead of the CWC 2023 edition.&nbsp;"Why blame Babar Azam only when the rest of the team didn't perform as well in the Asia Cup matches against India and Sri Lanka," Miandad said.

"Look our team is not as bad as it played in the Asia Cup. It has plenty of potential to do well in the World Cup. The only thing is how quickly our players cope and adjust to playing in Indian conditions before big crowds and in a country where they will encounter some hostility. The sooner this suspense about the final squad is ended the better it is for us in the mega-event," Miandad further asserted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shadab-khans-world-cup-place-in-doubt-as-selectors-keen-on-drafting-in-new-face-for-cwc-2023-reports-637591">Shadab Khan’s World Cup place in doubt as selectors keen on drafting in new face for CWC 2023 - Reports</a>

Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain and coach Misbah pointed out that Pakistan would only do well if everyone in the squad contributes collectively and isn't dependent on a select few (namely captain Babar, Shaheen Shah Afridi and keeper-batter Mohammed Rizwan). In this regard, he opined, "Don't just expect Babar to perform every time. This is not possible. This team has been successful as a collective unit and they must remember that even in India."

Misbah mentioned that now is not the time to raise questions on Babar, who had been entrusted with the role long back. "Now is not the time to talk about his captaincy. He is someone who can be relied upon in the World Cup as a captain and batsman," he stated.&nbsp;

In addition, the 2015 ODI World Cup skipper opened up on the speculations and discussions regarding a divide in the locker room, as well as rumours about a player leaking inside information. He feels all this will&nbsp;only harm the team's cause.

"I have worked with these players as captain, coach and chief selector and I back them to do well in the World Cup," Misbah added.

Pakistan will kick off their CWC 2023 campaign on October 06 when they play the Netherlands in Hyderabad. The marquee tournament commences a day before with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

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Pakistan entered the Asia Cup 2023 edition as the No. 1 ranked ODI side and were off to a solid start. However, their campaign fell apart in the Super Four stage with a heavy defeat versus arch-rivals India, losing by 228 runs, before throwing away a thrilling contest against Sri Lanka by two wickets (DLS method), to bow out of the multi-nation event.

Pakistan entered the Asia Cup 2023 edition as the No. 1 ranked ODI side and were off to a solid start. However, their campaign fell apart in the Super Four stage with a heavy defeat versus arch-rivals India, losing by 228 runs, before throwing away a thrilling contest against Sri Lanka by two wickets (DLS method), to bow out of the multi-nation event. With the ODI World Cup to kick off early next month in India, on October 05, Pakistan are under pressure. Captain Babar Azam has also drawn a lot of criticism for falling short in terms of tactics in crunch situations in the Asia Cup. However, he has found the backing of stalwarts such as Javed Miandad and Misbah-ul-Haq. 'Our team is not as bad as it played in the Asia Cup' Speaking to the media at a match of the 40's Global Cricket Event, both Miandad and Misbah have urged the country's cricket authorities to not panic ahead of the CWC 2023 edition. "Why blame Babar Azam only when the rest of the team didn't perform as well in the Asia Cup matches against India and Sri Lanka," Miandad said. "Look our team is not as bad as it played in the Asia Cup. It has plenty of potential to do well in the World Cup. The only thing is how quickly our players cope and adjust to playing in Indian conditions before big crowds and in a country where they will encounter some hostility. The sooner this suspense about the final squad is ended the better it is for us in the mega-event," Miandad further asserted. Also read: Shadab Khan’s World Cup place in doubt as selectors keen on drafting in new face for CWC 2023 - Reports Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain and coach Misbah pointed out that Pakistan would only do well if everyone in the squad contributes collectively and isn't dependent on a select few (namely captain Babar, Shaheen Shah Afridi and keeper-batter Mohammed Rizwan). In this regard, he opined, "Don't just expect Babar to perform every time. This is not possible. This team has been successful as a collective unit and they must remember that even in India." Misbah mentioned that now is not the time to raise questions on Babar, who had been entrusted with the role long back. "Now is not the time to talk about his captaincy. He is someone who can be relied upon in the World Cup as a captain and batsman," he stated. In addition, the 2015 ODI World Cup skipper opened up on the speculations and discussions regarding a divide in the locker room, as well as rumours about a player leaking inside information. He feels all this will only harm the team's cause. "I have worked with these players as captain, coach and chief selector and I back them to do well in the World Cup," Misbah added. Pakistan will kick off their CWC 2023 campaign on October 06 when they play the Netherlands in Hyderabad. The marquee tournament commences a day before with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Why blame Babar Azam only? Miandad, Misbah back Pakistan captain for CWC '23 after Asia Cup debacle

Indian&nbsp;pacer Mohammed Siraj will enter the upcoming India-Australia ODIs&nbsp;at home&nbsp;as the No. 1 bowler after the latest update in the ICC ODI Rankings&nbsp;on Wednesday (September 20). Siraj has been rewarded for his spectacular run with the ball, chipping in with regular wickets in the powerplays, including a magnificent 6 for 21 in the recently-held Asia Cup final between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo on September 17 (Sunday). In the continental tournament's summit clash, Siraj broke the back of the Lankan batting line-up. His career-best figures not only propelled India to the title but also&nbsp;took&nbsp;him to the numero uno position in the overall standings for bowlers.

Siraj had 637 points before the Asia Cup final. However, his splendid spell -- the fourth-best bowling figures by an Indian in ODIs -- sealed his spot at&nbsp;the top, propelling him from the No. 9 position. His tally now reads 694 points. He has 16 more points than Josh Hazlewood, who lost the top spot after the South Africa ODIs in the African nation.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that this is the second time Siraj has taken the top spot. Earlier, the 29-year-old held the spot in January 2023 after a fine show against Sri Lanka at home.

<h3>ICC ODI Rankings for Bowlers</h3>

1. Mohammed Siraj - 694 rating points 
2. Josh Hazlewood - 678 
3. Trent Boult - 677 
4. Mujeeb Ur Rahman - 657 
5. Rashid Khan - 655

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/either-he-has-fought-with-someone-or-harbhajan-baffled-with-chahals-omission-for-australia-odis-637606">'Either he has fought with someone or...': Harbhajan baffled by Chahal's omission from Australia ODIs</a>

Siraj is now gearing up for the three ODIs versus Pat Cummins-led Australia at home. The series gets underway on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. The second and penultimate ODI will take&nbsp;place on Sunday (September 24) with the series finale on Wednesday (September 27) in Rajkot. Regulars such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav are part of the squad for the final ODI only.&nbsp;

For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.

The speedster will look to maintain the momentum in the Australia ODIs -- which is India's last series before the CWC 2023 edition on home soil. The tournament begins on October 05 with India taking on the Aussies in their respective tournament opener&nbsp;on October 08 in Chennai.&nbsp;

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Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj will enter the upcoming India-Australia ODIs at home as the No. 1 bowler after the latest update in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (September 20).

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj will enter the upcoming India-Australia ODIs at home as the No. 1 bowler after the latest update in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (September 20). Siraj has been rewarded for his spectacular run with the ball, chipping in with regular wickets in the powerplays, including a magnificent 6 for 21 in the recently-held Asia Cup final between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo on September 17 (Sunday). In the continental tournament's summit clash, Siraj broke the back of the Lankan batting line-up. His career-best figures not only propelled India to the title but also took him to the numero uno position in the overall standings for bowlers. Siraj had 637 points before the Asia Cup final. However, his splendid spell -- the fourth-best bowling figures by an Indian in ODIs -- sealed his spot at the top, propelling him from the No. 9 position. His tally now reads 694 points. He has 16 more points than Josh Hazlewood, who lost the top spot after the South Africa ODIs in the African nation. It is to be noted that this is the second time Siraj has taken the top spot. Earlier, the 29-year-old held the spot in January 2023 after a fine show against Sri Lanka at home. ICC ODI Rankings for Bowlers 1. Mohammed Siraj - 694 rating points 2. Josh Hazlewood - 678 3. Trent Boult - 677 4. Mujeeb Ur Rahman - 657 5. Rashid Khan - 655 Also read: 'Either he has fought with someone or...': Harbhajan baffled by Chahal's omission from Australia ODIs Siraj is now gearing up for the three ODIs versus Pat Cummins-led Australia at home. The series gets underway on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. The second and penultimate ODI will take place on Sunday (September 24) with the series finale on Wednesday (September 27) in Rajkot. Regulars such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav are part of the squad for the final ODI only. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. The speedster will look to maintain the momentum in the Australia ODIs -- which is India's last series before the CWC 2023 edition on home soil. The tournament begins on October 05 with India taking on the Aussies in their respective tournament opener on October 08 in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Mohammed Siraj becomes No. 1 ODI bowler after 6 for 21 in Asia Cup final

Joe Root is gearing up for England's three-match ODI series opener versus Ireland, on September 20 (Wednesday) at Headingley, Leeds. The former England Test captain voluntarily added him to the squad for the first ODI&nbsp;as he needs more game time in the&nbsp;format ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad on October 05. Root's decision comes on the back of a horrible run in the four ODIs against New Zealand,&nbsp;at home, where he ended with scores of 6, 0, 4, and 29.

Ahead of the Ireland series, where Zak Crawley will lead a second-stringed side, England's regular captain Jos Buttler lauded Root's 'hunger to play' and backs him to regain form before CWC 2023.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Buttler said, "It just shows his hunger to play. He's someone who, over the last four years because of the schedule probably hasn't played as much 50-over cricket as he would like. He's an experienced guy and he knows what he needs. He's arguably the best player in our team and he just knows what he needs to get ready. It was very simple for all involved."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-blame-babar-azam-only-miandad-misbah-back-pak-captain-for-cwc-23-after-asia-cup-debacle-637810">Why blame Babar Azam only: Miandad, Misbah back Pakistan captain for CWC '23 after Asia Cup debacle</a>

Meanwhile, England's chief selector Luke Wright also lauded Root for requesting for more game time and&nbsp;added, "It's great for someone to have that desire to keep wanting to do more. He just wanted a bit more time. It's a great thing for someone to still have that desire to keep wanting to do more and more. It shows where he's at with his game and what makes him such a world-class player that, when he doesn't feel quite right, he still wants to tinker and do more. As much as we probably thought he needed a break as well, he just wanted another go."

Root has batted only 16 times in ODIs since the 2019 World Cup, won by England in a thrilling final, at Lord's, versus the Black Caps. Hence, he is desperate to regain his rhythm before the upcoming ICC event in October-November.

England's final squad for the 2023 World Cup:&nbsp;Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.

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Joe Root is gearing up for England's three-match ODI series opener versus Ireland, on September 20 (Wednesday) at Headingley, Leeds. The former England Test captain voluntarily added him to the squad for the first ODI as he needs more game time in the format ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad on October 05.

Joe Root is gearing up for England's three-match ODI series opener versus Ireland, on September 20 (Wednesday) at Headingley, Leeds. The former England Test captain voluntarily added him to the squad for the first ODI as he needs more game time in the format ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad on October 05. Root's decision comes on the back of a horrible run in the four ODIs against New Zealand, at home, where he ended with scores of 6, 0, 4, and 29. Ahead of the Ireland series, where Zak Crawley will lead a second-stringed side, England's regular captain Jos Buttler lauded Root's 'hunger to play' and backs him to regain form before CWC 2023. Speaking to Sky Sports, Buttler said, "It just shows his hunger to play. He's someone who, over the last four years because of the schedule probably hasn't played as much 50-over cricket as he would like. He's an experienced guy and he knows what he needs. He's arguably the best player in our team and he just knows what he needs to get ready. It was very simple for all involved." Also read: Why blame Babar Azam only: Miandad, Misbah back Pakistan captain for CWC '23 after Asia Cup debacle Meanwhile, England's chief selector Luke Wright also lauded Root for requesting for more game time and added, "It's great for someone to have that desire to keep wanting to do more. He just wanted a bit more time. It's a great thing for someone to still have that desire to keep wanting to do more and more. It shows where he's at with his game and what makes him such a world-class player that, when he doesn't feel quite right, he still wants to tinker and do more. As much as we probably thought he needed a break as well, he just wanted another go." Root has batted only 16 times in ODIs since the 2019 World Cup, won by England in a thrilling final, at Lord's, versus the Black Caps. Hence, he is desperate to regain his rhythm before the upcoming ICC event in October-November. England's final squad for the 2023 World Cup: Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Arguably best player in our team: England captain Jos Buttler lauds under-fire Joe Root ahead of CWC '23

Former India cricketer Mohammad&nbsp;Kaif has voiced his opinion on the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the upcoming ODI series against Australia as the spin master looks for a potential entry into the World Cup squad. Ashwin, on Tuesday, was selected in India’s squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia as they look for a potential backup to Axar Patel. The left-arm bowling all-rounder was injured in the final Super Four contest of the Asia Cup against Bangladesh and consequently missed the summit clash against Sri Lanka.

<h2>Kaif opines on Ashwin</h2>

"If Axar hadn't been injured then we wouldn't have seen this move and Ashwin would have never been in the scene. Now Axar has suffered a strain injury and that takes time to recover from. No matter what they say he will be back in a week but such injuries take at least 2-3 weeks to recover from. That is why they went for the experience in Ashwin. And remember, there is no comparison between Ashwin and Sundar. He has 900 wickets (712) across formats,” Kaif said&nbsp;in a conversation with Star Sports.

The Indian team will have to look for reinforcements after Axar was not available for the Asia Cup final while he also misses out on the Australia series. The Indian team management will have another week to decide the final World Cup squad before the deadline of September 27. Ashwin’s inclusion in the squad though has raised eyebrows, having not played ODI cricket for more than 18 months. He last played for India in January 2022 against South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-brazilian-footballer-to-visit-indias-kolkata-before-durga-puja-in-october-find-itinerary-details-637659">Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details</a>

<h2>Ashwin’s time frame</h2>

Ashwin has been an integral part of the Test side but has been hardly seen taking part in white-ball international cricket. However, like the 2022 T20 World Cup where he came in as a surprise, Ashwin will hope for the same in the ODI World Cup as well. He will have three matches to impress the Indian team management while competition from Washington Sundar could also affect his potential involvement in the World Cup squad.

The three-match ODI series will start on Friday, September 22 with a near fully-fit Australia squad ready to make a statement. The Aussies will be led by returning Pat Cummins while they will also have the services of Mitchell Starc and Steven Smith. Travis Head remains the only player from the World Cup squad not available due to injury.

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Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his opinion on the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the upcoming ODI series against Australia as the spin master looks for a potential entry into the World Cup squad.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his opinion on the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the upcoming ODI series against Australia as the spin master looks for a potential entry into the World Cup squad. Ashwin, on Tuesday, was selected in India’s squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia as they look for a potential backup to Axar Patel. The left-arm bowling all-rounder was injured in the final Super Four contest of the Asia Cup against Bangladesh and consequently missed the summit clash against Sri Lanka. Kaif opines on Ashwin "If Axar hadn't been injured then we wouldn't have seen this move and Ashwin would have never been in the scene. Now Axar has suffered a strain injury and that takes time to recover from. No matter what they say he will be back in a week but such injuries take at least 2-3 weeks to recover from. That is why they went for the experience in Ashwin. And remember, there is no comparison between Ashwin and Sundar. He has 900 wickets (712) across formats,” Kaif said in a conversation with Star Sports. The Indian team will have to look for reinforcements after Axar was not available for the Asia Cup final while he also misses out on the Australia series. The Indian team management will have another week to decide the final World Cup squad before the deadline of September 27. Ashwin’s inclusion in the squad though has raised eyebrows, having not played ODI cricket for more than 18 months. He last played for India in January 2022 against South Africa. ALSO READ | Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details Ashwin’s time frame Ashwin has been an integral part of the Test side but has been hardly seen taking part in white-ball international cricket. However, like the 2022 T20 World Cup where he came in as a surprise, Ashwin will hope for the same in the ODI World Cup as well. He will have three matches to impress the Indian team management while competition from Washington Sundar could also affect his potential involvement in the World Cup squad. The three-match ODI series will start on Friday, September 22 with a near fully-fit Australia squad ready to make a statement. The Aussies will be led by returning Pat Cummins while they will also have the services of Mitchell Starc and Steven Smith. Travis Head remains the only player from the World Cup squad not available due to injury. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mohammad Kaif opines on Ravi Ashwin's potential wildcard entry for World Cup, 'if Axar hadn't been injured...'

Veteran New Zealand pacer Tim Southee will face a race against time to be fit for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he is set to have surgery on his right thumb. Southee dislocated his right thumb while fielding during the ODI series against England at Lord’s which will now see him go under the knife before the prestigious tournament in India. He, though, remains optimistic about his involvement in the World Cup while New Zealand Cricket (NZC) will make a final decision next week when the results of the surgery are revealed.

<h2>Suspense on Southee’s selection</h2>

"We've got our fingers crossed that the surgery goes well for Tim," head coach Gary Stead said.

"He'll have some pins or screws inserted in his right thumb and, providing the procedure is a success, it will be a matter of ensuring Tim can tolerate the pain and manage the actual wound when returning to train and play.

"Our opening game of the World Cup against England is not until Thursday, October 5 in Ahmedabad, so that would be our logical target in terms of his availability.

"Tim's obviously a hugely experienced and important figure in our team and we want to give him every chance to be part of this World Cup campaign,” added Stead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-brazilian-footballer-to-visit-indias-kolkata-before-durga-puja-in-october-find-itinerary-details-637659">Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details</a>

<h2>Worried NZ side</h2>

New Zealand are already sweating on the fitness of skipper Kane Williamson who won’t be 100 per cent fit during the World Cup’s initial phase. Southee’s injury will be a key blow for the side as they get ready for the final phase of the build-up. The Kiwis have been runners-up in the last two editions of the World Cup, having lost to Australia and England in 2015 and 2019, respectively.

New Zealand will participate in a three-match ODI series against Bangladesh starting on Thursday, September 21 before they travel to India for the World Cup warm-up games. They will be playing South Africa and Pakistan in the build-up before kick-starting their campaign against England in the repeat of the 2019 edition’s final.

Both New Zealand and England will meet at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad in the curtain-raiser contest on Thursday, October 5.

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Veteran New Zealand pacer Tim Southee will face a race against time to be fit for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he is set to have surgery on his right thumb. Southee dislocated his right thumb while fielding during the ODI series against England at Lord’s which will now see him go under the knife before the prestigious tournament in India.

Veteran New Zealand pacer Tim Southee will face a race against time to be fit for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he is set to have surgery on his right thumb. Southee dislocated his right thumb while fielding during the ODI series against England at Lord’s which will now see him go under the knife before the prestigious tournament in India. He, though, remains optimistic about his involvement in the World Cup while New Zealand Cricket (NZC) will make a final decision next week when the results of the surgery are revealed. Suspense on Southee’s selection "We've got our fingers crossed that the surgery goes well for Tim," head coach Gary Stead said. "He'll have some pins or screws inserted in his right thumb and, providing the procedure is a success, it will be a matter of ensuring Tim can tolerate the pain and manage the actual wound when returning to train and play. "Our opening game of the World Cup against England is not until Thursday, October 5 in Ahmedabad, so that would be our logical target in terms of his availability. "Tim's obviously a hugely experienced and important figure in our team and we want to give him every chance to be part of this World Cup campaign,” added Stead. ALSO READ | Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details Worried NZ side New Zealand are already sweating on the fitness of skipper Kane Williamson who won’t be 100 per cent fit during the World Cup’s initial phase. Southee’s injury will be a key blow for the side as they get ready for the final phase of the build-up. The Kiwis have been runners-up in the last two editions of the World Cup, having lost to Australia and England in 2015 and 2019, respectively. New Zealand will participate in a three-match ODI series against Bangladesh starting on Thursday, September 21 before they travel to India for the World Cup warm-up games. They will be playing South Africa and Pakistan in the build-up before kick-starting their campaign against England in the repeat of the 2019 edition’s final. Both New Zealand and England will meet at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad in the curtain-raiser contest on Thursday, October 5. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tim Southee set to undergo surgery on dislocated thumb, hopeful for timely return for ODI World Cup

On Monday (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's squads for the upcoming Australia ODIs, which kicks off on Friday (September 22). There were two squads announced as KL Rahul will lead in the opening two games with regular captain Rohit Sharma, along with vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Virat Kohli and Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;returning for the final ODI. While R Ashwin's return has made heads turn, Yuzvendra Chahal continues to miss out and this has not been well-received by former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh.&nbsp;

Axar Patel's injury, during the just-concluded Asia Cup, led to the return of Ashwin and Washington Sundar in the ODI squad.

However, Chahal's omission has left Harbhajan Singh baffled.&nbsp;

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan said, “Yuzvendra Chahal should have been here. He has not been given an opportunity. It is beyond my understanding. Either he has fought with someone or he has said something to someone, I don't know. If we talk only about skill, his name should have been there in this team because a lot of Team India players are resting."

With his World Cup dreams looking bleak, Chahal has been busy representing Kent in County Cricket. Meanwhile, Ashwin and Sundar have a wonderful opportunity to perform well in the upcoming three ODIs and stake a claim in the CWC squad.

Talking about Axar, he is expected to recover and, hence, is&nbsp;part of the squad for the final ODI (subject to fitness).

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohli-wants-power-or-leadership-sanjay-manjrekar-opines-on-indias-star-batter-637581">'Don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership': Sanjay Manjrekar opines on India's star batter</a>

Further, Bhajji opened up on the Australia series. He stated, "Team India have to continue the winning habit they developed in the Asia Cup. They have the ability to beat Australia as well. The team is slightly weak for the first two matches but I believe this slightly weak team can also come out on top against them."

“Australia were playing against South Africa and India were playing against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup. Australia are a different team. You will have to be at your best to beat Australia because they have decent batting till No. 7 or No. 8 and they have solid hitters,” Harbhajan further added.&nbsp;

India will enter the Australia ODIs on a positive note following the Asia Cup 2023 win. Australia, on the other hand, will look to build up strongly for the forthcoming ODI World Cup -- which starts on October 5 in India -- after a 2-3 series loss to South Africa, in the African nation.&nbsp;

For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.

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On Monday (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's squads for the upcoming Australia ODIs, which kicks off on Friday (September 22).

On Monday (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's squads for the upcoming Australia ODIs, which kicks off on Friday (September 22). There were two squads announced as KL Rahul will lead in the opening two games with regular captain Rohit Sharma, along with vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Virat Kohli and Kuldeep Yadav, returning for the final ODI. While R Ashwin's return has made heads turn, Yuzvendra Chahal continues to miss out and this has not been well-received by former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh. Axar Patel's injury, during the just-concluded Asia Cup, led to the return of Ashwin and Washington Sundar in the ODI squad. However, Chahal's omission has left Harbhajan Singh baffled. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan said, “Yuzvendra Chahal should have been here. He has not been given an opportunity. It is beyond my understanding. Either he has fought with someone or he has said something to someone, I don't know. If we talk only about skill, his name should have been there in this team because a lot of Team India players are resting." With his World Cup dreams looking bleak, Chahal has been busy representing Kent in County Cricket. Meanwhile, Ashwin and Sundar have a wonderful opportunity to perform well in the upcoming three ODIs and stake a claim in the CWC squad. Talking about Axar, he is expected to recover and, hence, is part of the squad for the final ODI (subject to fitness). Also read: 'Don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership': Sanjay Manjrekar opines on India's star batter Further, Bhajji opened up on the Australia series. He stated, "Team India have to continue the winning habit they developed in the Asia Cup. They have the ability to beat Australia as well. The team is slightly weak for the first two matches but I believe this slightly weak team can also come out on top against them." “Australia were playing against South Africa and India were playing against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup. Australia are a different team. You will have to be at your best to beat Australia because they have decent batting till No. 7 or No. 8 and they have solid hitters,” Harbhajan further added. India will enter the Australia ODIs on a positive note following the Asia Cup 2023 win. Australia, on the other hand, will look to build up strongly for the forthcoming ODI World Cup -- which starts on October 5 in India -- after a 2-3 series loss to South Africa, in the African nation. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Either he has fought with someone or...': Harbhajan baffled by Chahal's omission from Australia ODIs

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on India's star batter Virat Kohli during a recent interaction. Manjrekar feels that Kohli isn't one who wants leadership or power and doesn't have any scope of an unfulfilled dream when it comes to leadership after having led India for a long time across formats before Rohit Sharma's current tenure. Kohli was recently seen in action during Asia Cup 2023, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Sri Lanka in the final by ten wickets. He will feature in the third and final ODI between India and Australia with the series opener to be held on Friday (September 22).

While talking to journalist&nbsp;Vimal Kumar on his Youtube channel, Manjrekar spoke at length about similarities between Kohli and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and opined on the former not wanting power or leadership in the current Indian setup.&nbsp;

Manjrekar said, "The one similarity between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar is that both of them enjoy playing cricket. They want to be on the field. He was not part of the team for the game against Bangladesh but was still on the field. I don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership." He further opined, "He just wants to play and it looks like he enjoys being a part of the team. He captained the team for a very long time, so there is no scope for an unfulfilled dream. Being with the team, travelling with players, going to the ground, and being part of winning moments are more important to him than having power."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-kl-rahul-should-play-all-games-and-maintain-consistency-says-2011-odi-wc-winner-637568">India vs Australia: KL Rahul should play all games and maintain consistency, says 2011 ODI WC winner</a>

<h2>'It will be very difficult for Kohli to reach SRT's 51 Test centuries'</h2>

Further, Manjrekar made a big claim whether Kohli can surpass Tendulkar's Test century tally and added, "Sachin Tendulkar has 51 hundreds, 17 more than what Sunil Gavaskar finished with. For a good player, accumulating runs in ODIs is comparatively easy, as bowlers don't always try to take a wicket. Tendulkar and Kohli are special because they also have a lot of Test hundreds. However, I believe it will be very difficult for Kohli to reach 51 Test centuries."

Tendulkar ended his illustrious career with over 34,000 international runs and 100 tons overall. Kohli, at present, has&nbsp;amassed 13,027 runs in 280 ODIs, 8,676 runs in 111 Tests, and 4,008 runs in 115 T20Is for India. He is just two centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's tally in ODIs (49) but remains far behind in Tests (with 29 hundreds).

Kohli will soon take part in his fourth ODI World Cup when the marquee event kicks off in India on October 05.&nbsp;

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Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on India's star batter Virat Kohli during a recent interaction. Manjrekar feels that Kohli isn't one who wants leadership or power and doesn't have any scope of an unfulfilled dream when it comes to leadership after having led India for a long time across formats before Rohit Sharma's current tenure.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on India's star batter Virat Kohli during a recent interaction. Manjrekar feels that Kohli isn't one who wants leadership or power and doesn't have any scope of an unfulfilled dream when it comes to leadership after having led India for a long time across formats before Rohit Sharma's current tenure. Kohli was recently seen in action during Asia Cup 2023, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Sri Lanka in the final by ten wickets. He will feature in the third and final ODI between India and Australia with the series opener to be held on Friday (September 22). While talking to journalist Vimal Kumar on his Youtube channel, Manjrekar spoke at length about similarities between Kohli and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and opined on the former not wanting power or leadership in the current Indian setup. Manjrekar said, "The one similarity between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar is that both of them enjoy playing cricket. They want to be on the field. He was not part of the team for the game against Bangladesh but was still on the field. I don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership." He further opined, "He just wants to play and it looks like he enjoys being a part of the team. He captained the team for a very long time, so there is no scope for an unfulfilled dream. Being with the team, travelling with players, going to the ground, and being part of winning moments are more important to him than having power." Also read: India vs Australia: KL Rahul should play all games and maintain consistency, says 2011 ODI WC winner 'It will be very difficult for Kohli to reach SRT's 51 Test centuries' Further, Manjrekar made a big claim whether Kohli can surpass Tendulkar's Test century tally and added, "Sachin Tendulkar has 51 hundreds, 17 more than what Sunil Gavaskar finished with. For a good player, accumulating runs in ODIs is comparatively easy, as bowlers don't always try to take a wicket. Tendulkar and Kohli are special because they also have a lot of Test hundreds. However, I believe it will be very difficult for Kohli to reach 51 Test centuries." Tendulkar ended his illustrious career with over 34,000 international runs and 100 tons overall. Kohli, at present, has amassed 13,027 runs in 280 ODIs, 8,676 runs in 111 Tests, and 4,008 runs in 115 T20Is for India. He is just two centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's tally in ODIs (49) but remains far behind in Tests (with 29 hundreds). Kohli will soon take part in his fourth ODI World Cup when the marquee event kicks off in India on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership': Sanjay Manjrekar opines on India's star batter

S Sreesanth, India's 2011 ODI World Cup winner, feels KL Rahul -- who returned to international cricket during Asia Cup 2023&nbsp;after a lengthy break -- should play all three ODIs versus Australia, which gets underway on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. Rahul has been named as the India captain for the first two games before regular captain Rohit Sharma will return for the series finale.&nbsp;

Speaking to Sportskeeda, Sreesanth opined that the Indian team management can opt to rest ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah -- who also made his international comeback last month after an 11-month break -- if there is a niggle.

Bumrah has been named in both the ODI squad for the Australia series -- for the opening two encounters and final ODI.

Sreesanth said, “It will be interesting to see the kind of pitches they offer to Australia in the series. But I want Bumrah to be rested if there is a niggle. Let him decide how his body is feeling. He deserves to make that decision and choose his priority. The use of fast bowlers would be crucial. They should rotate them and the fast bowlers should focus on bowling in partnerships."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-odis-would-be-disappointed-if-former-all-rounder-irfan-pathan-on-sanju-samsons-omission-637535">Ind vs Aus ODIs: 'Would be disappointed if...' - Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Sanju Samson's omission</a>

He shifted focus on Rahul and added, “I would ask the likes of KL Rahul to play all the games and maintain the consistency that we spoke about. Show Australia that it will be worse for them in the World Cup. Just demoralize them and make sure we don’t lose."

The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, regular vice-captain Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav will only feature for the third ODI whereas the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Prasidh Krishna will look to make a mark if they get a chance during the first two games.

The biggest news from the squad announcement was the return of R Ashwin.

Both Washington Sundar and Ashwin have been added for the entire series with Axar Patel being injured.

Axar, however, is part of the squad for the third ODI if he attains full fitness.

For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.

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S Sreesanth, India's 2011 ODI World Cup winner, feels KL Rahul -- who returned to international cricket during Asia Cup 2023 after a lengthy break -- should play all three ODIs versus Australia, which gets underway on Friday (September 22) in Mohali.

S Sreesanth, India's 2011 ODI World Cup winner, feels KL Rahul -- who returned to international cricket during Asia Cup 2023 after a lengthy break -- should play all three ODIs versus Australia, which gets underway on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. Rahul has been named as the India captain for the first two games before regular captain Rohit Sharma will return for the series finale. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Sreesanth opined that the Indian team management can opt to rest ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah -- who also made his international comeback last month after an 11-month break -- if there is a niggle. Bumrah has been named in both the ODI squad for the Australia series -- for the opening two encounters and final ODI. Sreesanth said, “It will be interesting to see the kind of pitches they offer to Australia in the series. But I want Bumrah to be rested if there is a niggle. Let him decide how his body is feeling. He deserves to make that decision and choose his priority. The use of fast bowlers would be crucial. They should rotate them and the fast bowlers should focus on bowling in partnerships." Also read: Ind vs Aus ODIs: 'Would be disappointed if...' - Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Sanju Samson's omission He shifted focus on Rahul and added, “I would ask the likes of KL Rahul to play all the games and maintain the consistency that we spoke about. Show Australia that it will be worse for them in the World Cup. Just demoralize them and make sure we don’t lose." The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, regular vice-captain Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav will only feature for the third ODI whereas the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Prasidh Krishna will look to make a mark if they get a chance during the first two games. The biggest news from the squad announcement was the return of R Ashwin. Both Washington Sundar and Ashwin have been added for the entire series with Axar Patel being injured. Axar, however, is part of the squad for the third ODI if he attains full fitness. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India vs Australia: KL Rahul should play all games and maintain consistency, says 2011 ODI WC winner

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

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

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

All eyes are now on the upcoming CWC 2023 edition, which gets underway in India on October 05 in Ahmedabad. All the participating teams are working hard to finalise their team combination and keep their players fit, and former cricketers and experts are busy making predictions for the marquee event.

Former Australia stumper Adam Gilchrist has joined the bandwagon and shared his semi-finalists. Gilchrist, part of Australia's 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cup winning campaigns, feels India, Australia, England and Pakistan will make the top four.

"I think India and Pakistan could feature, Australia and England are another two teams," Gilchrist told the press in a promotional event at Ahmedabad.

Recently, a second-stringed Australian side lost a five-match ODI series (2-3) to host South Africa despite leading 2-0.

Gilchrist, however, isn't concerned and stated, "Australia will learn a lot from their efforts in South Africa when they come to India. They have got three games before the World Cup against India. So, they will have a bit more of a full-strength squad there, that might tell us a bit about where they are at."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-india-squad-for-australia-odis-rohit-kohli-to-feature-in-series-finale-r-ashwin-returns-637248">BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns</a>

He further opined on Adam Zampa -- who was taken to the cleaners versus the Proteas and ended with 10-0-113-0 in the fourth ODI -- and added, "Adam Zampa, in South Africa, was at the receiving end a little bit but it's different conditions out here in India with different pitches and he is a world-class spin bowler, and he has shown that particularly across T20 cricket, and now he gets his chance in the 50-over World Cup. So it's a very knowledgeable group and they are going to have to use all that experience against batting line-ups across the globe and play without fear."

Australia have now shifted their focus to the three ODIs versus hosts India, which kicks off on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. For the upcoming series, the likes of regular captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith have returned.&nbsp;

Australia squad:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

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All eyes are now on the upcoming CWC 2023 edition, which gets underway in India on October 05 in Ahmedabad. All the participating teams are working hard to finalise their team combination and keep their players fit, and former cricketers and experts are busy making predictions for the marquee event.

All eyes are now on the upcoming CWC 2023 edition, which gets underway in India on October 05 in Ahmedabad. All the participating teams are working hard to finalise their team combination and keep their players fit, and former cricketers and experts are busy making predictions for the marquee event. Former Australia stumper Adam Gilchrist has joined the bandwagon and shared his semi-finalists. Gilchrist, part of Australia's 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cup winning campaigns, feels India, Australia, England and Pakistan will make the top four. "I think India and Pakistan could feature, Australia and England are another two teams," Gilchrist told the press in a promotional event at Ahmedabad. Recently, a second-stringed Australian side lost a five-match ODI series (2-3) to host South Africa despite leading 2-0. Gilchrist, however, isn't concerned and stated, "Australia will learn a lot from their efforts in South Africa when they come to India. They have got three games before the World Cup against India. So, they will have a bit more of a full-strength squad there, that might tell us a bit about where they are at." Also read: BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns He further opined on Adam Zampa -- who was taken to the cleaners versus the Proteas and ended with 10-0-113-0 in the fourth ODI -- and added, "Adam Zampa, in South Africa, was at the receiving end a little bit but it's different conditions out here in India with different pitches and he is a world-class spin bowler, and he has shown that particularly across T20 cricket, and now he gets his chance in the 50-over World Cup. So it's a very knowledgeable group and they are going to have to use all that experience against batting line-ups across the globe and play without fear." Australia have now shifted their focus to the three ODIs versus hosts India, which kicks off on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. For the upcoming series, the likes of regular captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith have returned. Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Team India make the cut as former Aussie stumper Adam Gilchrist predicts semi-finalists

On Monday evening (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced two squads for India's upcoming three ODIs versus Australia at home, starting on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. In what will be India's last series before the commencement of CWC 2023, on October 05 in India, KL Rahul will lead in the opening two games with Rohit Sharma to return for the series finale. However, R Ashwin's comeback has made heads turn.&nbsp;

Ashwin, who has not played an ODI since early 2022, has rejoined the 50-over setup after a long gap. Many reports claimed&nbsp;that his inclusion was on the cards ever since Rohit hinted at his comeback post Asia Cup 2023 final, where India beat Sri Lanka by ten wickets in Colombo on Sunday (September 17), following Axar Patel's injury. For the Asia Cup final, India recalled Washington Sundar as a like-for-like replacement for Axar, but now the senior pro Ashwin has also been&nbsp;included. Meanwhile, Axar is&nbsp;part of the squad only for the third ODI, subject to fitness.

During a virtual press conference, Rohit opened up on Ashwin's ODI comeback so close to the World Cup. There are now strong possibilities of him making a late entry in the WC squad, especially if Axar&nbsp;remains unfit.&nbsp;

<h2>'It is&nbsp;all in the head more than the body'</h2>

Rohit told, "With guys like Ashwin, game-time and time on the ground is not so much of a concern. Which is why we thought if he is an option for us, we need to get him in. With the kind of experience he has, for guys like him, it's all in the head more than the body. I thought getting him in could give is a chance to understand where he is at, how his body is and stuff like that."

"It's not like he has not been playing cricket for the last year or so. Yes, he hasn't played in this [ODI] format, but he played Test cricket recently in the West Indies, and if I'm not wrong, in the TNPL as well. Of course, there's no comparison but he has had some cricket there. The games against Australia will give us a chance to look at where he's at," he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-india-squad-for-australia-odis-rohit-kohli-to-feature-in-series-finale-r-ashwin-returns-637248">BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns</a>

Meanwhile, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar said, "We're hoping Axar will be fit. Washy was already part of the squad for the final. Ashwin brings experience, so it gives us options in case there is a need at some stage for us to look at those guys."

As reported by Cricbuzz, Ashwin&nbsp;is scheduled to play a 50-over match in Chennai on Tuesday (September 19),&nbsp;in the local league of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). Thus, the 37-year-old spinner is sincerely preparing himself for&nbsp;any potential scenarios ahead of CWC&nbsp;'23&nbsp;in India.

For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.

Virat Kohli, Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya have also been rested for the first two ODIs, along with Rohit, but will return for the final game.

The Australia ODIs kick&nbsp;off in Mohali on Friday, followed by the second and penultimate tie in Indore on&nbsp;September 24 (Sunday)&nbsp;and the series finale on September 27 (Wednesday).&nbsp;

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On Monday evening (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced two squads for India's upcoming three ODIs versus Australia at home, starting on Friday (September 22) in Mohali.

On Monday evening (September 18), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced two squads for India's upcoming three ODIs versus Australia at home, starting on Friday (September 22) in Mohali. In what will be India's last series before the commencement of CWC 2023, on October 05 in India, KL Rahul will lead in the opening two games with Rohit Sharma to return for the series finale. However, R Ashwin's comeback has made heads turn. Ashwin, who has not played an ODI since early 2022, has rejoined the 50-over setup after a long gap. Many reports claimed that his inclusion was on the cards ever since Rohit hinted at his comeback post Asia Cup 2023 final, where India beat Sri Lanka by ten wickets in Colombo on Sunday (September 17), following Axar Patel's injury. For the Asia Cup final, India recalled Washington Sundar as a like-for-like replacement for Axar, but now the senior pro Ashwin has also been included. Meanwhile, Axar is part of the squad only for the third ODI, subject to fitness. During a virtual press conference, Rohit opened up on Ashwin's ODI comeback so close to the World Cup. There are now strong possibilities of him making a late entry in the WC squad, especially if Axar remains unfit. 'It is all in the head more than the body' Rohit told, "With guys like Ashwin, game-time and time on the ground is not so much of a concern. Which is why we thought if he is an option for us, we need to get him in. With the kind of experience he has, for guys like him, it's all in the head more than the body. I thought getting him in could give is a chance to understand where he is at, how his body is and stuff like that." "It's not like he has not been playing cricket for the last year or so. Yes, he hasn't played in this [ODI] format, but he played Test cricket recently in the West Indies, and if I'm not wrong, in the TNPL as well. Of course, there's no comparison but he has had some cricket there. The games against Australia will give us a chance to look at where he's at," he added. Also read: BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns Meanwhile, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar said, "We're hoping Axar will be fit. Washy was already part of the squad for the final. Ashwin brings experience, so it gives us options in case there is a need at some stage for us to look at those guys." As reported by Cricbuzz, Ashwin is scheduled to play a 50-over match in Chennai on Tuesday (September 19), in the local league of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). Thus, the 37-year-old spinner is sincerely preparing himself for any potential scenarios ahead of CWC '23 in India. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. Virat Kohli, Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya have also been rested for the first two ODIs, along with Rohit, but will return for the final game. The Australia ODIs kick off in Mohali on Friday, followed by the second and penultimate tie in Indore on September 24 (Sunday) and the series finale on September 27 (Wednesday). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Game-time not a concern': Rohit Sharma on R Ashwin's ODI return in Australia series ahead of CWC '23

India have given a call-up to veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the ODI squad for the upcoming Australia ODI series ahead of the ODI World Cup. The call comes as Axar Patel, India's third spinner apart from Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja in the World Cup squad, suffered an injury. Patel got injured in the final Super Four game against Bangladesh in the recently-concluded Asia Cup.

Speaking on India's squad, Sri Lanka's World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga, in a conversation with the Indian Express, said that not having a strong group of spinners would be a disadvantage for India in the upcoming quadrennial event.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-skipper-rohit-sharma-opens-up-resting-kuldeep-yadav-for-first-odis-of-australia-series-637356">India skipper Rohit Sharma opens up 'resting' Kuldeep Yadav for first ODIs of Australia series</a>

"I don't know whether India has two proper spinners. They have good all-rounders, who happen to be spinners but I can't see a proper spinner in this side. On Indian pitches, they need a strong group of spinners. If not, it would be a disadvantage for India," Ranatunga said.

"Of course, there is Kuldeep Yadav, he can be a match-winner as he showed against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup. He is pretty clever from what I see, especially when it comes to using the variations. But you need one more to support him who could contain and attack because teams will try to target him and unsettle. Especially when you play against England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, sometimes you might have to play 3 spinners without affecting the balance of the team. And India doesn’t have a batsman who can bowl. Jadeja who bowls, bats at No 7," he added.

Ranatunga also backs Ashwin's inclusion in the squad as he could be a match-winner whenever he plays for India.

"You take Pakistan and England, they have proper spinners. So that is something I’m sure India will address before the World Cup. They are looking more at the all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, but I personally feel that they should have someone like R Ashwin in the squad, if not in the XI. When he plays, he can be a match-winner for you," said the former Sri Lanka captain.

After the three-match ODI series against Australia which starts September 22, India will play two warm-up games ahead of the ODI World Cup, which begins on October 5 next month.

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India have given a call-up to veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the ODI squad for the upcoming Australia ODI series ahead of the ODI World Cup. The call comes as Axar Patel, India's third spinner apart from Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja in the World Cup squad, suffered an injury.

India have given a call-up to veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the ODI squad for the upcoming Australia ODI series ahead of the ODI World Cup. The call comes as Axar Patel, India's third spinner apart from Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja in the World Cup squad, suffered an injury. Patel got injured in the final Super Four game against Bangladesh in the recently-concluded Asia Cup. Speaking on India's squad, Sri Lanka's World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga, in a conversation with the Indian Express, said that not having a strong group of spinners would be a disadvantage for India in the upcoming quadrennial event. Also Read: India skipper Rohit Sharma opens up 'resting' Kuldeep Yadav for first ODIs of Australia series "I don't know whether India has two proper spinners. They have good all-rounders, who happen to be spinners but I can't see a proper spinner in this side. On Indian pitches, they need a strong group of spinners. If not, it would be a disadvantage for India," Ranatunga said. "Of course, there is Kuldeep Yadav, he can be a match-winner as he showed against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup. He is pretty clever from what I see, especially when it comes to using the variations. But you need one more to support him who could contain and attack because teams will try to target him and unsettle. Especially when you play against England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, sometimes you might have to play 3 spinners without affecting the balance of the team. And India doesn’t have a batsman who can bowl. Jadeja who bowls, bats at No 7," he added. Ranatunga also backs Ashwin's inclusion in the squad as he could be a match-winner whenever he plays for India. "You take Pakistan and England, they have proper spinners. So that is something I’m sure India will address before the World Cup. They are looking more at the all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, but I personally feel that they should have someone like R Ashwin in the squad, if not in the XI. When he plays, he can be a match-winner for you," said the former Sri Lanka captain. After the three-match ODI series against Australia which starts September 22, India will play two warm-up games ahead of the ODI World Cup, which begins on October 5 next month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'He can be a match-winner,' ex-SL skipper Arjuna Ranatunga backs Ravi Ashwin to be in India's World Cup squad

Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, has backed Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.&nbsp;to win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off on October 05 in Ahmedabad. On Sunday (September 17), in Colombo, Team India thrashed Sri Lanka by ten wickets -- chasing a paltry 51&nbsp;-- to win the Asia Cup 2023 edition (eighth title overall) to strengthen their preparations for CWC 2023. Hence, Kapil has backed the national side but advised them to play 'passionately' and 'enjoy themselves'.

Speaking to PTI, Kapil said that reaching the top four would be India's first priority and then luck will come into play.&nbsp;

"I think if we can come in top four, that is more important and then it will be about stroke of luck and everything," Kapil said on the sidelines of the launch of the third edition of J&amp;K Open, to be played at the Jammu Tawi Golf Course from October 4 to 7.

"We can't say right now that we are favourites, of course our team is very good. Heart says something else, mind says no we have to work very hard. I know our team, I don't know about other teams, so I would say it is unfair for me to give a blank answer," Kapil opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-have-to-win-matches-with-his-batting-ability-gambhir-wants-jadeja-the-batter-to-stand-tall-in-cwc-23-637188">He will have to win matches with his batting ability: Gambhir wants Jadeja the batter to stand tall in CWC '23</a>

Kapil pointed out, "...as far as India team is concerned, it is ready to play and win the championships...they should play passionately, enjoy themselves."

The World Cup-winning captain spoke about the one-sided Asia Cup final and hailed Team India's performance, however, he admitted that he expected a better contest. "...what a fantastic cricket played! As a cricketer I would like to see much close games but as a player, I feel bowl them out for 30 and win. As a spectator, probably a little close matches would have been better,"&nbsp;Kapil added.

Rohit-led India will now host Australia in three ODIs, starting on Friday (September 22) in Mohali, before their CWC 2023 opener -- where they will meet the Aussies on October 08 in Chennai. The tournament opener will be held between defending champions England and New Zealand on October 05 in Ahmedabad.

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Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, has backed Rohit Sharma & Co. to win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off on October 05 in Ahmedabad.

Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, has backed Rohit Sharma & Co. to win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off on October 05 in Ahmedabad. On Sunday (September 17), in Colombo, Team India thrashed Sri Lanka by ten wickets -- chasing a paltry 51 -- to win the Asia Cup 2023 edition (eighth title overall) to strengthen their preparations for CWC 2023. Hence, Kapil has backed the national side but advised them to play 'passionately' and 'enjoy themselves'. Speaking to PTI, Kapil said that reaching the top four would be India's first priority and then luck will come into play. "I think if we can come in top four, that is more important and then it will be about stroke of luck and everything," Kapil said on the sidelines of the launch of the third edition of J&K Open, to be played at the Jammu Tawi Golf Course from October 4 to 7. "We can't say right now that we are favourites, of course our team is very good. Heart says something else, mind says no we have to work very hard. I know our team, I don't know about other teams, so I would say it is unfair for me to give a blank answer," Kapil opined. Also read: He will have to win matches with his batting ability: Gambhir wants Jadeja the batter to stand tall in CWC '23 Kapil pointed out, "...as far as India team is concerned, it is ready to play and win the championships...they should play passionately, enjoy themselves." The World Cup-winning captain spoke about the one-sided Asia Cup final and hailed Team India's performance, however, he admitted that he expected a better contest. "...what a fantastic cricket played! As a cricketer I would like to see much close games but as a player, I feel bowl them out for 30 and win. As a spectator, probably a little close matches would have been better," Kapil added. Rohit-led India will now host Australia in three ODIs, starting on Friday (September 22) in Mohali, before their CWC 2023 opener -- where they will meet the Aussies on October 08 in Chennai. The tournament opener will be held between defending champions England and New Zealand on October 05 in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India is ready to win ODI World Cup: Kapil Dev urges Rohit & Co. to 'play passionately'

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the Asia Cup 2023 final, on Sunday (September 17), in Colombo to win their eighth title in the continental tournament history. With this, India are preparing well for the upcoming home ODI World Cup. Before the mega event kicks off on October 5 in Ahmedabad, India, former Pakistan great Wasim Akram has named the player who can be India's main weapon in the 50-over marquee event.

<h2>'Hardik Pandya is India's main weapon'</h2>

Akram was quoted as saying to Star Sports, "He (Hardik Pandya) is their main weapon in the upcoming World Cup and India are one of the favourite teams to win it. For starters, they are playing at home and we have seen what they can do with the ball."

To back the Pakistan great's claim, Hardik does provide a good balance to the Indian side.

With him bowling very well (he ended with six scalps in Asia Cup 2023) and being India's crisis man lower down the order, his performance will be very crucial to India's chances in the 50-over World Cup.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/someone-will-be-replacing-him-says-gautam-gambhir-on-shreyas-iyers-odi-world-cup-squad-spot-637038">'Someone will be replacing him,' says Gautam Gambhir on Shreyas Iyer's ODI World Cup squad spot</a>

Further, Akram opined on India's overall run in Asia Cup and how nicely the squad is building up for the World Cup at home.

“Kuldeep got wickets as well against the big sides in the Asia Cup. So, it’s a complete side. So, well done to the Indian think tank, which has been supporting these boys and making sure that they have the proper squad before the World Cup,” he added.

India will now shift focus on the three-match ODI series versus Australia at home, which begins on September 22 (Friday) in IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali.

After the series, India will play two warm-up games before their CWC 2023 opener, versus Australia in Chennai on October 8.&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the Asia Cup 2023 final, on Sunday (September 17), in Colombo to win their eighth title in the continental tournament history.

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the Asia Cup 2023 final, on Sunday (September 17), in Colombo to win their eighth title in the continental tournament history. With this, India are preparing well for the upcoming home ODI World Cup. Before the mega event kicks off on October 5 in Ahmedabad, India, former Pakistan great Wasim Akram has named the player who can be India's main weapon in the 50-over marquee event. 'Hardik Pandya is India's main weapon' Akram was quoted as saying to Star Sports, "He (Hardik Pandya) is their main weapon in the upcoming World Cup and India are one of the favourite teams to win it. For starters, they are playing at home and we have seen what they can do with the ball." To back the Pakistan great's claim, Hardik does provide a good balance to the Indian side. With him bowling very well (he ended with six scalps in Asia Cup 2023) and being India's crisis man lower down the order, his performance will be very crucial to India's chances in the 50-over World Cup. Also read: 'Someone will be replacing him,' says Gautam Gambhir on Shreyas Iyer's ODI World Cup squad spot Further, Akram opined on India's overall run in Asia Cup and how nicely the squad is building up for the World Cup at home. “Kuldeep got wickets as well against the big sides in the Asia Cup. So, it’s a complete side. So, well done to the Indian think tank, which has been supporting these boys and making sure that they have the proper squad before the World Cup,” he added. India will now shift focus on the three-match ODI series versus Australia at home, which begins on September 22 (Friday) in IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. After the series, India will play two warm-up games before their CWC 2023 opener, versus Australia in Chennai on October 8. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023

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

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

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

India defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the Asia Cup final on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo to clinch their eighth title in the tournament history. Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bowl first and rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 to dismiss the islanders for 50 in 15.2 overs before chasing down the paltry total in 6.1 overs.

During their entire campaign, Team India were tested on several grounds before coming to their own in the summit clash. There were a lot of individual brilliance throughout the tournament for the Men in Blue, with the likes of Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav doing well.

Talking about Ravindra Jadeja, the spin-bowling all-rounder also claimed six wickets but didn't do anything significant with the bat.&nbsp;

Ahead of the India-Australia home ODIs, which kicks off on Friday (September 22) in Mohali followed by CWC 2023, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir opined that Jadeja will have to come good with the bat in the upcoming 50-over mega event.

Speaking to Star Sports, Gambhir -- the 2011 ODI World Cup winner -- said, "If Ishan Kishan plays at No. 5, there are question marks there as well. So Ravindra Jadeja will have to win matches with his batting ability because you might have a situation where you need 80 or 90 runs in 10 overs and the No. 6 and No. 7 batters might be playing together."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kohli-or-bumrah-pak-great-wasim-akram-names-who-will-be-rohit-led-indias-main-weapon-in-cwc-2023-637142">Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023</a>

"Ravindra Jadeja has the ability but it is still debatable against top-quality bowling. The way he has contributed, no doubt he will fit in any playing XI, but India will be happy if Ravindra Jadeja is seen in good hitting form. There is a massive difference between good batting form and good hitting form," Gambhir further added.

Gambhir stressed that the ability to form partnerships down the order was something which was missing for India during Asia Cup 2023. Jadeja only managed&nbsp;25 runs in three innings in the just-concluded continental tournament. Thus, he will be looking forward to the India-Australia ODIs to get some runs under his belt before the&nbsp;World Cup gets underway.

After the Australia home ODIs, India will play two warm-up games -- on September 30 and October 03 -- before their CWC 2023 campaign gets off the mark on October 08, where they play Australia in Chennai. The World Cup commences on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

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India defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the Asia Cup final on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo to clinch their eighth title in the tournament history. Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bowl first and rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 to dismiss the islanders for 50 in 15.

India defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the Asia Cup final on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo to clinch their eighth title in the tournament history. Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bowl first and rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 21 to dismiss the islanders for 50 in 15.2 overs before chasing down the paltry total in 6.1 overs. During their entire campaign, Team India were tested on several grounds before coming to their own in the summit clash. There were a lot of individual brilliance throughout the tournament for the Men in Blue, with the likes of Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav doing well. Talking about Ravindra Jadeja, the spin-bowling all-rounder also claimed six wickets but didn't do anything significant with the bat. Ahead of the India-Australia home ODIs, which kicks off on Friday (September 22) in Mohali followed by CWC 2023, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir opined that Jadeja will have to come good with the bat in the upcoming 50-over mega event. Speaking to Star Sports, Gambhir -- the 2011 ODI World Cup winner -- said, "If Ishan Kishan plays at No. 5, there are question marks there as well. So Ravindra Jadeja will have to win matches with his batting ability because you might have a situation where you need 80 or 90 runs in 10 overs and the No. 6 and No. 7 batters might be playing together." Also read: Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023 "Ravindra Jadeja has the ability but it is still debatable against top-quality bowling. The way he has contributed, no doubt he will fit in any playing XI, but India will be happy if Ravindra Jadeja is seen in good hitting form. There is a massive difference between good batting form and good hitting form," Gambhir further added. Gambhir stressed that the ability to form partnerships down the order was something which was missing for India during Asia Cup 2023. Jadeja only managed 25 runs in three innings in the just-concluded continental tournament. Thus, he will be looking forward to the India-Australia ODIs to get some runs under his belt before the World Cup gets underway. After the Australia home ODIs, India will play two warm-up games -- on September 30 and October 03 -- before their CWC 2023 campaign gets off the mark on October 08, where they play Australia in Chennai. The World Cup commences on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

He will have to win matches with his batting ability: Gambhir wants Jadeja the batter to stand tall in CWC '23

Legendary Sri Lanka player Kumar Sangakkara has backed Rohit Sharma’s Team India to be one of the favourites to clinch the upcoming ODI World Cup as they prepare for a busy next couple of months. The Men in Blue set to play the World Cup in their own backyard will look to add to their 1983 and 2011 titles. According to Sangakkara, India won’t be the only team favourites to conquer glory as England too will be eyeing another World Cup glory.

<h2>Sangakkara backs India</h2>

“I think England and India are going to be top favourites saw Sri Lanka play the last game and how they played throughout the Asia Cup, so they could be challenging for a playoff position you’re in the playoffs, you’re a game away. You have a good day, you could be in the final” Sangakkara said while in conversation with Sky Sports.

Momentum will be a key factor in India’s success as they will the likes of Australia and England in the build-up to the marquee tournament. India will play a three-match ODI series against Australia while they will play Jos Buttler’s side in the warm-up match of the World Cup. India have reached at least the semifinals of the ODI World Cup on each of the last three occasions while winning in 2011.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-capable-of-being-in-team-if-says-former-pakistan-batter-younis-khan-on-skipper-babar-azam-636790">'Not capable of being in team if...,' says former Pakistan batter Younis Khan on skipper Babar Azam</a>

<h2>India’s road to World Cup</h2>

Before heading into the World Cup and the Australia series, India will play Sri Lanka in the final of the Asia Cup 2023. The game will be India’s chance to get a trophy before the start of the World Cup with few players returning to form. The likes of KL Rahul and Virat Kohli showed their class in the Pakistan game with respective tons while Shubman Gill was on song in the dead-rubber clash against Bangladesh on Friday as he scored his sixth international hundred of 2023.

The two-time ODI World Cup champions will start their journey in the showpiece event on Sunday, October 8 against Australia in Chennai before they host Afghanistan. Rohit’s men will then play Pakistan in the high-voltage clash on Saturday, October 14 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

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Legendary Sri Lanka player Kumar Sangakkara has backed Rohit Sharma’s Team India to be one of the favourites to clinch the upcoming ODI World Cup as they prepare for a busy next couple of months.

Legendary Sri Lanka player Kumar Sangakkara has backed Rohit Sharma’s Team India to be one of the favourites to clinch the upcoming ODI World Cup as they prepare for a busy next couple of months. The Men in Blue set to play the World Cup in their own backyard will look to add to their 1983 and 2011 titles. According to Sangakkara, India won’t be the only team favourites to conquer glory as England too will be eyeing another World Cup glory. Sangakkara backs India “I think England and India are going to be top favourites saw Sri Lanka play the last game and how they played throughout the Asia Cup, so they could be challenging for a playoff position you’re in the playoffs, you’re a game away. You have a good day, you could be in the final” Sangakkara said while in conversation with Sky Sports. Momentum will be a key factor in India’s success as they will the likes of Australia and England in the build-up to the marquee tournament. India will play a three-match ODI series against Australia while they will play Jos Buttler’s side in the warm-up match of the World Cup. India have reached at least the semifinals of the ODI World Cup on each of the last three occasions while winning in 2011. ALSO READ | 'Not capable of being in team if...,' says former Pakistan batter Younis Khan on skipper Babar Azam India’s road to World Cup Before heading into the World Cup and the Australia series, India will play Sri Lanka in the final of the Asia Cup 2023. The game will be India’s chance to get a trophy before the start of the World Cup with few players returning to form. The likes of KL Rahul and Virat Kohli showed their class in the Pakistan game with respective tons while Shubman Gill was on song in the dead-rubber clash against Bangladesh on Friday as he scored his sixth international hundred of 2023. The two-time ODI World Cup champions will start their journey in the showpiece event on Sunday, October 8 against Australia in Chennai before they host Afghanistan. Rohit’s men will then play Pakistan in the high-voltage clash on Saturday, October 14 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Sri Lanka legend backs Rohit Sharma's Team India for glory; England also strong favourites

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has lamented India as the favourites to win the upcoming ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue prepare for the showpiece event in their own backyard. However, Hussain claims Rohit Sharma’s men won’t be the clear favourites as other teams could resist them from clinching the title. India are currently enjoying top form and will play in the final of the Asia Cup on Sunday, September 17 against Sri Lanka.

<h2>Hussain laments India favourites</h2>

"They're favorites but they're not clear favorites because of the amount of quality sides there are. If you look at their squad, they have two of the greatest white ball batters to ever play the game, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They have a potential future great in Shubman Gill and Bumrah coming back is fantastic news. So if you look at their batting and bowling, it's right up there among one of the best squads,” Hussain said while in conversation with Sky Sports.

The Indian team has been in fine form in the build-up to the tournament while they prepare for the Asia Cup final. The Men in Blue will have home advantage to their aid with sights on 2011 glory when they clinched the title. The likes of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have been in great touch while KL Rahul also made his return to the circuit with a fine hundred against Pakistan in the Super Four contest last Sunday.

Hussian though pinpointed one drawback from the side as batters are unable to contribute with the ball while the same goes vice-versa. In contrast, the Indian team in 2011 had Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Sachin Tendulkar, and Virender Sehwag as bowling options while the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Ravichandran Ashwin contributed with the bat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-when-could-max-verstappen-clinch-2023-formula-one-championship-636571">Explained | When could Max Verstappen clinch 2023 Formula One Championship</a>

"An area where they lack is if you look at the batters, they don't bowl and the bowlers don't bat. So the side has a different make-up to England and Australia with all the all-rounders," said Hussain.

<h2>India’s journey at World Cup</h2>

India have never failed to reach the semifinals of the World Cup whenever it has been held in the sub-continent. Rohit Sharma’s men will start their campaign against Australia on Sunday, October 8 while they will play Hussain’s former side England in the warm-ups on Saturday, September 30. The two will meet again in the league stage of the tournament on Sunday, October 29 in Lucknow.

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Former England captain Nasser Hussain has lamented India as the favourites to win the upcoming ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue prepare for the showpiece event in their own backyard.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has lamented India as the favourites to win the upcoming ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue prepare for the showpiece event in their own backyard. However, Hussain claims Rohit Sharma’s men won’t be the clear favourites as other teams could resist them from clinching the title. India are currently enjoying top form and will play in the final of the Asia Cup on Sunday, September 17 against Sri Lanka. Hussain laments India favourites "They're favorites but they're not clear favorites because of the amount of quality sides there are. If you look at their squad, they have two of the greatest white ball batters to ever play the game, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They have a potential future great in Shubman Gill and Bumrah coming back is fantastic news. So if you look at their batting and bowling, it's right up there among one of the best squads,” Hussain said while in conversation with Sky Sports. The Indian team has been in fine form in the build-up to the tournament while they prepare for the Asia Cup final. The Men in Blue will have home advantage to their aid with sights on 2011 glory when they clinched the title. The likes of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have been in great touch while KL Rahul also made his return to the circuit with a fine hundred against Pakistan in the Super Four contest last Sunday. Hussian though pinpointed one drawback from the side as batters are unable to contribute with the ball while the same goes vice-versa. In contrast, the Indian team in 2011 had Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Sachin Tendulkar, and Virender Sehwag as bowling options while the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Ravichandran Ashwin contributed with the bat. ALSO READ | Explained | When could Max Verstappen clinch 2023 Formula One Championship "An area where they lack is if you look at the batters, they don't bowl and the bowlers don't bat. So the side has a different make-up to England and Australia with all the all-rounders," said Hussain. India’s journey at World Cup India have never failed to reach the semifinals of the World Cup whenever it has been held in the sub-continent. Rohit Sharma’s men will start their campaign against Australia on Sunday, October 8 while they will play Hussain’s former side England in the warm-ups on Saturday, September 30. The two will meet again in the league stage of the tournament on Sunday, October 29 in Lucknow. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Former England captain terms India as favourites for title, but says, 'they are not...'

Australia opener Travis Head suffered a fracture in his left had, putting his participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup under a cloud of doubt. Head was hit by a Gerald Coetzee delivery during the fourth ODI against South Africa in Centurion on Friday, September 15. The batsman was trying to attempt a pull shot on the shorter delivery when he was hit. He was attended by the medical staff and continued to play after the treatment only to leave the field after three deliveries.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the injury at the post-match presentation after Australia lost the game by 164 runs. "At this stage, it's a confirmed fracture and how long that timeframe is, we're yet to determine that so fingers crossed clearly with the World Cup fast approaching," McDonald said post-match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tim-southees-odi-world-cup-participation-under-doubt-after-suffering-injury-in-lords-odi-against-england-636483">Tim Southee's ODI World Cup participation under doubt after suffering injury in Lord's ODI against England</a>

"I'm not a medical person, but I think it's a little bit higher up than the actual [index] finger itself. But I don't know the actual terminology. It's in a joint somewhere so I won't go into the medical specifics. But, yeah, a confirmed fracture and to be assessed again tomorrow with another scan," he added.

Head joins a long list of Australian players with injury concerns ahead of the World Cup which starts&nbsp;on October 5 in India. Apart from the Southpaw, Pat Cummins (wrist), Steve Smith (wrist), Mitchell Starc (groin), and Glenn Maxwell (leg) are also hoping to be fit before the World Cup and participate in the ODI series against India.

The Kangaroos are scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against World Cup hosts from September 22 ahead of the quadrennial tournament.

As for the match, it was a nightmare for Australia as South Africa put on a mammoth 416/5 on the board, thanks to Heinrich Klassen's mind-boggling 174 off 83 balls. Chasing the total, Australia were never in the hunt and eventually folded out for 252, leaving the five-ODI series equal at 2-2 with one more game to go.

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Australia opener Travis Head suffered a fracture in his left had, putting his participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup under a cloud of doubt. Head was hit by a Gerald Coetzee delivery during the fourth ODI against South Africa in Centurion on Friday, September 15.

Australia opener Travis Head suffered a fracture in his left had, putting his participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup under a cloud of doubt. Head was hit by a Gerald Coetzee delivery during the fourth ODI against South Africa in Centurion on Friday, September 15. The batsman was trying to attempt a pull shot on the shorter delivery when he was hit. He was attended by the medical staff and continued to play after the treatment only to leave the field after three deliveries. Australia head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the injury at the post-match presentation after Australia lost the game by 164 runs. "At this stage, it's a confirmed fracture and how long that timeframe is, we're yet to determine that so fingers crossed clearly with the World Cup fast approaching," McDonald said post-match. Also Read: Tim Southee's ODI World Cup participation under doubt after suffering injury in Lord's ODI against England "I'm not a medical person, but I think it's a little bit higher up than the actual [index] finger itself. But I don't know the actual terminology. It's in a joint somewhere so I won't go into the medical specifics. But, yeah, a confirmed fracture and to be assessed again tomorrow with another scan," he added. Head joins a long list of Australian players with injury concerns ahead of the World Cup which starts on October 5 in India. Apart from the Southpaw, Pat Cummins (wrist), Steve Smith (wrist), Mitchell Starc (groin), and Glenn Maxwell (leg) are also hoping to be fit before the World Cup and participate in the ODI series against India. The Kangaroos are scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against World Cup hosts from September 22 ahead of the quadrennial tournament. As for the match, it was a nightmare for Australia as South Africa put on a mammoth 416/5 on the board, thanks to Heinrich Klassen's mind-boggling 174 off 83 balls. Chasing the total, Australia were never in the hunt and eventually folded out for 252, leaving the five-ODI series equal at 2-2 with one more game to go. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia vs South Africa: Travis Head suffers hand fracture, World Cup participation under doubt

West Indies great Vivian Richards has backed Team India to 'do well' in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, which kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Richards, regarded as one of the finest batters of his time and a two-time World Cup winner, feels the&nbsp; massive home support will be extremely helpful for the Men in Blue.

Speaking to ICC, Richards said, "I fancy India, I have got a deep affiliation with India, that particular country in itself. I made my debut in India and I have a lot of sentimental reasons about that part of the world." He added, "So I will back India to do well, they have massive support you can never forget that when you have massive support it can be seriously encouraging."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-rohit-sharma-always-had-incredible-fighting-spirit-sa-great-ab-de-villiers-lauds-india-captain-636176">Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma always had incredible fighting spirit - SA great AB de Villiers lauds India captain</a>

Rohit Sharma-led India are in good form at the moment. In the ongoing Asia Cup, they became the first team to qualify for the final -- to be played on September 17 (Sunday) in Colombo -- and will aim to win the continental tournament, which will boost their confidence heading into CWC 2023. In the upcoming ICC event, they will open their campaign versus Australia, in Chennai, on October 08.&nbsp;

India have a strong chance to shine in the upcoming World Cup. This will be the first-ever 50-over World Cup to be held entirely in India. The last time they co-hosted the marquee event was in 2011, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, when they ended the winners.

Will Rohit &amp; Co. replicate their 2011 success? Only time will tell...

India’s 15-member World Cup squad:

Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.

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West Indies great Vivian Richards has backed Team India to 'do well' in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, which kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

West Indies great Vivian Richards has backed Team India to 'do well' in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, which kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Richards, regarded as one of the finest batters of his time and a two-time World Cup winner, feels the massive home support will be extremely helpful for the Men in Blue. Speaking to ICC, Richards said, "I fancy India, I have got a deep affiliation with India, that particular country in itself. I made my debut in India and I have a lot of sentimental reasons about that part of the world." He added, "So I will back India to do well, they have massive support you can never forget that when you have massive support it can be seriously encouraging." Also read: Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma always had incredible fighting spirit - SA great AB de Villiers lauds India captain Rohit Sharma-led India are in good form at the moment. In the ongoing Asia Cup, they became the first team to qualify for the final -- to be played on September 17 (Sunday) in Colombo -- and will aim to win the continental tournament, which will boost their confidence heading into CWC 2023. In the upcoming ICC event, they will open their campaign versus Australia, in Chennai, on October 08. India have a strong chance to shine in the upcoming World Cup. This will be the first-ever 50-over World Cup to be held entirely in India. The last time they co-hosted the marquee event was in 2011, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, when they ended the winners. Will Rohit & Co. replicate their 2011 success? Only time will tell... India’s 15-member World Cup squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Massive support can be seriously encouraging: WI great Viv Richards backs India ‘to do well’ in CWC 2023

India's Test specialist R Ashwin has lauded KL Rahul and feels the right-hander is providing stability with the bat in the middle-order. Rahul made his return to international cricket after a long injury layoff, since early May, during the Super Four round of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 edition and has had scores of 111* and 39, versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka, respectively. Thus, Ashwin feels Rahul is 'slowly mastering his role perfectly' of batting in the middle order.

<h2>'MS Dhoni nailed that art. KL Rahul is slowly mastering his role perfectly'</h2>

"KL Rahul is giving us that stability with the bat in the middle-order," Ashwin was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. "That’s why batting in the middle order is really difficult. MS Dhoni nailed that art. However, I am not at all comparing KL Rahul with MS Dhoni. Plus, he did a different role of batting at number 6/7 compared to KL Rahul," he opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-played-better-cricket-captain-babar-azam-on-pakistans-asia-cup-2023-elimination-636125">Sri Lanka played better cricket: Captain Babar Azam on Pakistan's Asia Cup 2023 elimination</a>

Ashwin added, "But I feel he is slowly mastering his role perfectly. He put a partnership with Ishan Kishan initially against Sri Lanka too. When Dunith Wellalage was in a great rhythm, KL Rahul left it alone for two deliveries. That was a very good sign. It showed us that he had a good game plan."

Rahul missed the group stage of the Asia Cup and was drafted into the playing XI at the last minute during the India-Pakistan Super Four stage after Shreyas Iyer's back issues. He returned in style,&nbsp;slamming a brilliant 111 not out whereas also looked most comfortable during India's spin struggles versus the Islanders. He ended with a sublime 39 and was sharp behind the stumps with his movements and valuable inputs to the bowlers.&nbsp;

India are taking on Bangladesh in their last Super Four clash on Friday (September 15) at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo before locking horns with hosts Sri Lanka in the final, on Sunday (September 17), at the same venue.

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India's Test specialist R Ashwin has lauded KL Rahul and feels the right-hander is providing stability with the bat in the middle-order. Rahul made his return to international cricket after a long injury layoff, since early May, during the Super Four round of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 edition and has had scores of 111* and 39, versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka, respectively.

India's Test specialist R Ashwin has lauded KL Rahul and feels the right-hander is providing stability with the bat in the middle-order. Rahul made his return to international cricket after a long injury layoff, since early May, during the Super Four round of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 edition and has had scores of 111* and 39, versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka, respectively. Thus, Ashwin feels Rahul is 'slowly mastering his role perfectly' of batting in the middle order. 'MS Dhoni nailed that art. KL Rahul is slowly mastering his role perfectly' "KL Rahul is giving us that stability with the bat in the middle-order," Ashwin was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. "That’s why batting in the middle order is really difficult. MS Dhoni nailed that art. However, I am not at all comparing KL Rahul with MS Dhoni. Plus, he did a different role of batting at number 6/7 compared to KL Rahul," he opined. Also read: Sri Lanka played better cricket: Captain Babar Azam on Pakistan's Asia Cup 2023 elimination Ashwin added, "But I feel he is slowly mastering his role perfectly. He put a partnership with Ishan Kishan initially against Sri Lanka too. When Dunith Wellalage was in a great rhythm, KL Rahul left it alone for two deliveries. That was a very good sign. It showed us that he had a good game plan." Rahul missed the group stage of the Asia Cup and was drafted into the playing XI at the last minute during the India-Pakistan Super Four stage after Shreyas Iyer's back issues. He returned in style, slamming a brilliant 111 not out whereas also looked most comfortable during India's spin struggles versus the Islanders. He ended with a sublime 39 and was sharp behind the stumps with his movements and valuable inputs to the bowlers. India are taking on Bangladesh in their last Super Four clash on Friday (September 15) at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo before locking horns with hosts Sri Lanka in the final, on Sunday (September 17), at the same venue. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: KL Rahul is giving India stability in the middle-order, says veteran spinner R Ashwin

Sri Lanka and Pakistan produced a thriller in their last Super Four clash of the Asia Cup on Thursday (September 14). Competing with each other for the remaining spot in the tournament final -- with India&nbsp;qualifying on Tuesday (September 12)&nbsp;-- the two Asian giants produced a riveting clash, in a rain-marred contest, where Kusal Mendis' 91 and Charith Asalanka's 49* propelled their side to a two-wicket win.

Opting to bat first, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Babar Azam-led Men in Green posted 252 for 7 in a 42-over contest (which was initially a 45-over affair before another rain break reduced it further). Md Rizwan stood tall with an impressive 86 not out, Abdullah Shafique's 52 and Iftikhar Ahmed's 47 took them to a competitive score. In reply, the Lankans ticked the basics and were cruising at 210 for 3 before a flurry of wickets opened the contest and took it to the final over.

Eventually, the Islanders edged past Pakistan on the last ball to set up a final clash with India. With this, Pakistan -- the No. 1 ODI side -- have bowed out of the competition with two successive losses in the Super Four round (having earlier lost to India by 228 runs). After the match, captain Babar said in the post-match presentation, "We just decided to bowl our best overs and asked Shaheen to bowl the second last over and believed in Zaman. Sri Lanka played very well, better cricket than us."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-sri-lanka-edge-out-pakistan-to-set-up-summit-clash-with-india-636074">Asia Cup 2023: Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan to set up summit clash with India</a>

“We have not been up to the mark in the bowling and fielding. That is why we lost the match. In the middle overs, we did not bowl well. That partnership cost us. We started well, ended well, but middle overs were not great. We have lacked that,” Babar added.

Sri Lanka have now entered their 11th Asia Cup final where they will meet Rohit Sharma-led India on September 17 (Sunday) at the same venue in Colombo. Meanwhile, the wait for fans&nbsp;to see&nbsp;India and Pakistan lock horns in the final of the continental tournament's history continues.&nbsp;

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Sri Lanka and Pakistan produced a thriller in their last Super Four clash of the Asia Cup on Thursday (September 14). Competing with each other for the remaining spot in the tournament final -- with India qualifying on Tuesday (September 12) -- the two Asian giants produced a riveting clash, in a rain-marred contest, where Kusal Mendis' 91 and Charith Asalanka's 49* propelled their side to a two-wicket win.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan produced a thriller in their last Super Four clash of the Asia Cup on Thursday (September 14). Competing with each other for the remaining spot in the tournament final -- with India qualifying on Tuesday (September 12) -- the two Asian giants produced a riveting clash, in a rain-marred contest, where Kusal Mendis' 91 and Charith Asalanka's 49* propelled their side to a two-wicket win. Opting to bat first, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Babar Azam-led Men in Green posted 252 for 7 in a 42-over contest (which was initially a 45-over affair before another rain break reduced it further). Md Rizwan stood tall with an impressive 86 not out, Abdullah Shafique's 52 and Iftikhar Ahmed's 47 took them to a competitive score. In reply, the Lankans ticked the basics and were cruising at 210 for 3 before a flurry of wickets opened the contest and took it to the final over. Eventually, the Islanders edged past Pakistan on the last ball to set up a final clash with India. With this, Pakistan -- the No. 1 ODI side -- have bowed out of the competition with two successive losses in the Super Four round (having earlier lost to India by 228 runs). After the match, captain Babar said in the post-match presentation, "We just decided to bowl our best overs and asked Shaheen to bowl the second last over and believed in Zaman. Sri Lanka played very well, better cricket than us." Also read: Asia Cup 2023: Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan to set up summit clash with India “We have not been up to the mark in the bowling and fielding. That is why we lost the match. In the middle overs, we did not bowl well. That partnership cost us. We started well, ended well, but middle overs were not great. We have lacked that,” Babar added. Sri Lanka have now entered their 11th Asia Cup final where they will meet Rohit Sharma-led India on September 17 (Sunday) at the same venue in Colombo. Meanwhile, the wait for fans to see India and Pakistan lock horns in the final of the continental tournament's history continues. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka played better cricket: Captain Babar Azam on Pakistan's Asia Cup 2023 elimination

Ben Stokes, who recently came out of ODI retirement for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India, slammed a career-best 182 as England romped past New Zealand in the third and penultimate ODI at The Oval, London. Opting to bowl first, Tom Latham-led Kiwis made a bright start with the Jos Buttler-led hosts reeling at 13 for 2 before Stokes-Dawid Malan (96) stitched a match-winning 199-run third-wicket stand as England posted a mammoth 368 all-out in 48.1 overs. In reply, the Black Caps folded for a paltry 187 in 39 overs.

With the win, England have now taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series. For Stokes, he registered the highest individual score for England in the shorter format, going past opener Jason Roy's 180 versus Australia in early 2018. The left-hander has, thus, kicked off his second stint in the format in style ahead of the marquee event in India starting next month.&nbsp;

From NZ's perspective, their bowlers started off nicely but England's positive approach kept them at bay as they conceded runs at regular intervals. While they managed to restrict them under 370, courtesy of Trent Boult's 5 for 51, they were never in the hunt in the steep run-chase. Chris Woakes (3 for 31), Liam Livingstone (3 for 16) and Reece Topley (2 for 31) starred with the ball as England attained a massive win and went 2-1 up in the series.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-records-highest-individual-score-for-england-in-odis-with-sensational-ton-against-new-zealand-635728">Ben Stokes records highest individual score for England in ODIs with sensational ton against New Zealand</a>

After the match, Player-of-the-Match Stokes said at the post-match presentation, "Really pleased. Apologise to Jason (Jason Roy - for breaking his record of highest individual score for England). We spoke about putting New Zealand under pressure and get to a good start and even after losing those early wickets, we wanted to be positive."

He opined, "Once we got going, we didn't want them (bowlers) to settle. As experienced players, we need to guide the younger players. He (Malan) is a very consistent player, he is a very quality player, rotates the strike very well as well and missed out on the milestone after getting a strangle down leg. I'm feeling much better, Test matches are a bit longer but ODIs surely are not that demanding."

Meanwhile, captain Buttler stated, "Really pleased with the performance. Spoke at the toss about wanting to be more aggressive. Malan and Stokes had a brilliant partnership to put the pressure back on. There are levels we can keep achieving. There's more in the tank as well, which is exciting. That's the England way."

On Stokes, he added, "Stokesy's innings was incredibly special. Dawid's done brilliantly well everytime he's got his chance. That opening spell was as good as it gets from Woakes and Topley. Really pleased with today. Most important thing was that message of being aggressive. Feels we're heading in the right direction."

The fourth and final match takes place on Friday (September 15) at the&nbsp;Lord's Cricket Ground, London. Both sides will meet at the iconic venue for the first time in this format since&nbsp;the epic 2019 ODI World Cup final.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes, who recently came out of ODI retirement for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India, slammed a career-best 182 as England romped past New Zealand in the third and penultimate ODI at The Oval, London.

Ben Stokes, who recently came out of ODI retirement for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India, slammed a career-best 182 as England romped past New Zealand in the third and penultimate ODI at The Oval, London. Opting to bowl first, Tom Latham-led Kiwis made a bright start with the Jos Buttler-led hosts reeling at 13 for 2 before Stokes-Dawid Malan (96) stitched a match-winning 199-run third-wicket stand as England posted a mammoth 368 all-out in 48.1 overs. In reply, the Black Caps folded for a paltry 187 in 39 overs. With the win, England have now taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series. For Stokes, he registered the highest individual score for England in the shorter format, going past opener Jason Roy's 180 versus Australia in early 2018. The left-hander has, thus, kicked off his second stint in the format in style ahead of the marquee event in India starting next month. From NZ's perspective, their bowlers started off nicely but England's positive approach kept them at bay as they conceded runs at regular intervals. While they managed to restrict them under 370, courtesy of Trent Boult's 5 for 51, they were never in the hunt in the steep run-chase. Chris Woakes (3 for 31), Liam Livingstone (3 for 16) and Reece Topley (2 for 31) starred with the ball as England attained a massive win and went 2-1 up in the series. Also read: Ben Stokes records highest individual score for England in ODIs with sensational ton against New Zealand After the match, Player-of-the-Match Stokes said at the post-match presentation, "Really pleased. Apologise to Jason (Jason Roy - for breaking his record of highest individual score for England). We spoke about putting New Zealand under pressure and get to a good start and even after losing those early wickets, we wanted to be positive." He opined, "Once we got going, we didn't want them (bowlers) to settle. As experienced players, we need to guide the younger players. He (Malan) is a very consistent player, he is a very quality player, rotates the strike very well as well and missed out on the milestone after getting a strangle down leg. I'm feeling much better, Test matches are a bit longer but ODIs surely are not that demanding." Meanwhile, captain Buttler stated, "Really pleased with the performance. Spoke at the toss about wanting to be more aggressive. Malan and Stokes had a brilliant partnership to put the pressure back on. There are levels we can keep achieving. There's more in the tank as well, which is exciting. That's the England way." On Stokes, he added, "Stokesy's innings was incredibly special. Dawid's done brilliantly well everytime he's got his chance. That opening spell was as good as it gets from Woakes and Topley. Really pleased with today. Most important thing was that message of being aggressive. Feels we're heading in the right direction." The fourth and final match takes place on Friday (September 15) at the Lord's Cricket Ground, London. Both sides will meet at the iconic venue for the first time in this format since the epic 2019 ODI World Cup final.

Stokes stars with 182 in England's mammoth win vs New Zealand, hosts take unassailable 2-1 lead in ODI series

On Wednesday (September 13), Ben Stokes slammed a career-best 182 in England's&nbsp;third and penultimate ODI versus New Zealand at The Oval, London. Riding on his daddy hundred, Jos Buttler &amp; Co. took an unassailable lead in the four ODIs, with an 181-run win, as they prepare&nbsp;for the upcoming ODI World Cup, to kick off in India on October 05.

On August 16, Stokes came out of his 50-over retirement ahead of&nbsp;defending champions England's ODI WC opener, where they play New Zealand in the inaugural&nbsp;game in Ahmedabad. In July 2022, the current England Test captain had called it quits from the shorter format blaming an "unsustainable" cricketing schedule. However, he&nbsp;made a U-turn as England look desperate to defend their title. After his knock versus the Black Caps, which is the highest individual score in ODIs by an English batter, Stokes revealed that he knew he would be coming back for the 50-over World Cup.

"Obviously I've been asked a lot about my knee over a long period of time, so I just said that to leave it," Stokes said, post the third ODI versus the Kiwis,&nbsp;in relation to his comments at the conclusion of&nbsp;Ashes 2023. He added, "I knew that I'd be playing in these games and potentially in the World Cup then when I said that, but it was just the easiest thing to say that and put you (the media) off the radar."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stokes-182-stars-in-englands-mammoth-win-vs-new-zealand-hosts-take-unassailable-2-1-lead-in-odi-series-635803">Stokes stars with 182 in England's mammoth win vs New Zealand, hosts take unassailable 2-1 lead in ODI series</a>

Since his ODI return, Stokes has looked good and has had scores of 52, 1 and 182. He will look to carry on with the momentum going ahead. With his return, England look stronger than ever to defend their title in the showpiece event in India. At present, they will be backing themselves to win the four-match ODI series versus New Zealand at home, with the series finale to be held on Friday (September 15) at Lord's.&nbsp;

England's provisional squad for the World Cup:&nbsp;Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes

It is to be noted that all ODI WC participants can make changes to their squad until September 28.

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On Wednesday (September 13), Ben Stokes slammed a career-best 182 in England's third and penultimate ODI versus New Zealand at The Oval, London. Riding on his daddy hundred, Jos Buttler & Co.

On Wednesday (September 13), Ben Stokes slammed a career-best 182 in England's third and penultimate ODI versus New Zealand at The Oval, London. Riding on his daddy hundred, Jos Buttler & Co. took an unassailable lead in the four ODIs, with an 181-run win, as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup, to kick off in India on October 05. On August 16, Stokes came out of his 50-over retirement ahead of defending champions England's ODI WC opener, where they play New Zealand in the inaugural game in Ahmedabad. In July 2022, the current England Test captain had called it quits from the shorter format blaming an "unsustainable" cricketing schedule. However, he made a U-turn as England look desperate to defend their title. After his knock versus the Black Caps, which is the highest individual score in ODIs by an English batter, Stokes revealed that he knew he would be coming back for the 50-over World Cup. "Obviously I've been asked a lot about my knee over a long period of time, so I just said that to leave it," Stokes said, post the third ODI versus the Kiwis, in relation to his comments at the conclusion of Ashes 2023. He added, "I knew that I'd be playing in these games and potentially in the World Cup then when I said that, but it was just the easiest thing to say that and put you (the media) off the radar." Also read: Stokes stars with 182 in England's mammoth win vs New Zealand, hosts take unassailable 2-1 lead in ODI series Since his ODI return, Stokes has looked good and has had scores of 52, 1 and 182. He will look to carry on with the momentum going ahead. With his return, England look stronger than ever to defend their title in the showpiece event in India. At present, they will be backing themselves to win the four-match ODI series versus New Zealand at home, with the series finale to be held on Friday (September 15) at Lord's. England's provisional squad for the World Cup: Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes It is to be noted that all ODI WC participants can make changes to their squad until September 28. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Knew I would be playing World Cup: England's Ben Stokes on coming out of ODI retirement after 182 vs NZ

South Africa's spin bowlers backed up a century by Aiden Markram as the hosts ended Australia's winning streak with a 111-run victory in the third one-day international at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Tuesday.

Markram hit 102 not out in a South African total of 338 for six.

South Africa survived a furious assault by David Warner and Travis Head before bowling out Australia for 227.

Australia won the first two games in the five-match series after sweeping a Twenty20 series 3-0.

The tourists looked on track for another win when Warner and Head thrashed 79 for the first wicket off only 48 balls.

Australia were 104 for one at the end of the 10-over power play, the second time in a row they reached three figures while fielding restrictions were in place.

But left-arm spinners Tabraiz Shamsi (two for 29) and Keshav Maharaj (two for 37) changed the course of the match on a spin-friendly pitch before fast bowler Gerald Coetzee (four for 50) finished off the Australian innings.

Maharaj also made a key intervention in the field with a direct-hit run-out of Warner, who made 78 off 56 balls before slipping and losing his shoe as he set off for a single.

"We needed a positive one," said South African captain Temba Bavuma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-spinners-headline-low-scoring-affair-as-india-register-41-run-win-to-book-place-in-sundays-final-635405">Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final</a>

"The batters knuckled down and we were banking on the wicket assisting the spin bowlers and it's exactly what it did.

"The power play didn't go as well as we wanted but the way we clawed it back was exactly what we're looking for."

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh said the loss was "a little slip-up" in conditions which are likely to be replicated during the World Cup in India next month.

"Hopefully we learnt a lot from it," he said.

Quinton de Kock (82) and captain Temba Bavuma (57) gave South Africa an ideal start with an opening stand of 146 in 22.5 overs.

But Australia were able to slow down the scoring, with part-time off-spinner Travis Head making good use of a slow, dry pitch to bowl unchanged and take two for 39 in 10 overs.

Markram and Marco Jansen gave the innings late impetus with a sixth-wicket partnership of 63 off 31 balls which was ended by a sensational diving left-handed catch by Sean Abbott on the cover boundary off Nathan Ellis.

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South Africa's spin bowlers backed up a century by Aiden Markram as the hosts ended Australia's winning streak with a 111-run victory in the third one-day international at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Tuesday.

South Africa's spin bowlers backed up a century by Aiden Markram as the hosts ended Australia's winning streak with a 111-run victory in the third one-day international at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on Tuesday. Markram hit 102 not out in a South African total of 338 for six. South Africa survived a furious assault by David Warner and Travis Head before bowling out Australia for 227. Australia won the first two games in the five-match series after sweeping a Twenty20 series 3-0. The tourists looked on track for another win when Warner and Head thrashed 79 for the first wicket off only 48 balls. Australia were 104 for one at the end of the 10-over power play, the second time in a row they reached three figures while fielding restrictions were in place. But left-arm spinners Tabraiz Shamsi (two for 29) and Keshav Maharaj (two for 37) changed the course of the match on a spin-friendly pitch before fast bowler Gerald Coetzee (four for 50) finished off the Australian innings. Maharaj also made a key intervention in the field with a direct-hit run-out of Warner, who made 78 off 56 balls before slipping and losing his shoe as he set off for a single. "We needed a positive one," said South African captain Temba Bavuma. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final "The batters knuckled down and we were banking on the wicket assisting the spin bowlers and it's exactly what it did. "The power play didn't go as well as we wanted but the way we clawed it back was exactly what we're looking for." Australian captain Mitchell Marsh said the loss was "a little slip-up" in conditions which are likely to be replicated during the World Cup in India next month. "Hopefully we learnt a lot from it," he said. Quinton de Kock (82) and captain Temba Bavuma (57) gave South Africa an ideal start with an opening stand of 146 in 22.5 overs. But Australia were able to slow down the scoring, with part-time off-spinner Travis Head making good use of a slow, dry pitch to bowl unchanged and take two for 39 in 10 overs. Markram and Marco Jansen gave the innings late impetus with a sixth-wicket partnership of 63 off 31 balls which was ended by a sensational diving left-handed catch by Sean Abbott on the cover boundary off Nathan Ellis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SA vs AUS 3rd ODI: Aiden Markram, spinners keep South Africa's series hopes alive after 111-run win

England’s David Willey is delighted to be back in the frame for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he looks for a shot at redemption. The left-arm pacer from Northampton was unfortunate to miss out on a spot in the 2019 ODI World Cup with Jofra Archer replacing him in the winning campaign. However, with Archer snubbed from the provisional squad Willey will hope to make the most of the opportunity.

<h2>Willey reflects back on 2019 snub</h2>

"I'd been a big part of that from 2015 through to that World Cup, so there were mixed emotions the day they won it," Willey said ahead of the third ODI against New Zealand.

"I was obviously delighted for the lads, but it hurt. I'd have probably given my left arm to be a part of that. I think anything that happens to me in cricket now is never going to be as bad as that. As my career in the game goes on, and whatever I do after, I think that's probably a difficult but great experience for me to have - hopefully, it can serve me well in other areas of my life."

Having been named in the provisional squad for the 2019 World Cup, he was forced to make way for the then-impressive Archer. The move by the England Cricket Board (ECB) proved to be a masterstroke as Archer helped them win their maiden ODI World Cup on home soil. He bowled the decisive Super Over against New Zealand where they got the better of the Kiwis on boundaries scored.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-spinners-headline-low-scoring-affair-as-india-register-41-run-win-to-book-place-in-sundays-final-635405">Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final</a>

<h2>Willey’s fabulous 12 months</h2>

For Willey, it has been a superb 12 months as he regained his place in the side after the COVID-19 outbreak. England opted to make use of two squads after the pandemic, which paved the way for him to be part of the national team set-up. He was also part of the England squad that won the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, despite not getting any playing time.

The 33-year-old, though, will not be hoping for a Deja vu as Archer is back in training while the final squad is to be announced before September 27. England start their World Cup campaign in a repeat of last edition’s final as they meet New Zealand in the curtain-raiser encounter on Thursday, October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

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England’s David Willey is delighted to be back in the frame for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he looks for a shot at redemption. The left-arm pacer from Northampton was unfortunate to miss out on a spot in the 2019 ODI World Cup with Jofra Archer replacing him in the winning campaign.

England’s David Willey is delighted to be back in the frame for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he looks for a shot at redemption. The left-arm pacer from Northampton was unfortunate to miss out on a spot in the 2019 ODI World Cup with Jofra Archer replacing him in the winning campaign. However, with Archer snubbed from the provisional squad Willey will hope to make the most of the opportunity. Willey reflects back on 2019 snub "I'd been a big part of that from 2015 through to that World Cup, so there were mixed emotions the day they won it," Willey said ahead of the third ODI against New Zealand. "I was obviously delighted for the lads, but it hurt. I'd have probably given my left arm to be a part of that. I think anything that happens to me in cricket now is never going to be as bad as that. As my career in the game goes on, and whatever I do after, I think that's probably a difficult but great experience for me to have - hopefully, it can serve me well in other areas of my life." Having been named in the provisional squad for the 2019 World Cup, he was forced to make way for the then-impressive Archer. The move by the England Cricket Board (ECB) proved to be a masterstroke as Archer helped them win their maiden ODI World Cup on home soil. He bowled the decisive Super Over against New Zealand where they got the better of the Kiwis on boundaries scored. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final Willey’s fabulous 12 months For Willey, it has been a superb 12 months as he regained his place in the side after the COVID-19 outbreak. England opted to make use of two squads after the pandemic, which paved the way for him to be part of the national team set-up. He was also part of the England squad that won the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, despite not getting any playing time. The 33-year-old, though, will not be hoping for a Deja vu as Archer is back in training while the final squad is to be announced before September 27. England start their World Cup campaign in a repeat of last edition’s final as they meet New Zealand in the curtain-raiser encounter on Thursday, October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

England's David Willey delighted to get back in frame for ODI WC spot: 'I thought my England career was done'

Australia’s ace all-rounder Ashton Agar is geared up for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he will share the bowling podium with compatriot Adam Zampa in India. Agar, who is all set to leave for Australia from South Africa for a paternity leave, will be an important member as his side targets a record sixth World Cup in India. Agar, 29, was recently included in Australia’s ODI World Cup squad that also features Zampa, who is likely to be the first choice.

<h2>Agar ready for Zampa’s company</h2>

"I can't wait to play with Zamps in that World Cup," Agar, speaking before the South Africa tour, said.

"We're ripe for it, we're pretty experienced now, we've played a lot of games together.

"When we play together, we usually have a pretty good impact on the game. We just know each other so well, we're good friends, we just know what to do out there and we communicate nicely. We seem to complement each other with our skillsets,” the Aussie all-rounder added.

The coming ODI World Cup in India will be a great chance for the Aussies to yet again stamp their authority on the cricketing world. They currently hold the World Test Championship (WTC), having won the title in England in June while they were also T20 World Cup champions in 2021. An ODI World Cup in India will complete the World Championship set for the side in span of less than two years.

In his eight years with the side, Agar has not featured prominently as he only accounts for 21 wickets while playing just 22 matches. During this period, he has been facing stiff competition from Zampa having made his ODI debut in 2016. During the same period, Zampa played in 81 matches while scalping 136 wickets for the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-yuvraj-was-in-a-different-league-hardik-jadeja-arent-quite-there-manjrekar-makes-big-claim-634824">Asia Cup: Yuvraj was in a different league, Hardik &amp; Jadeja aren't quite there - Manjrekar makes big claim</a>

<h2>Australia prepare for World Cup</h2>

The Aussies currently in South Africa have been in great form as they seek momentum before the showpiece tournament. The Aussies won the T20I series against the Proteas 3-0 while they got the better of the hosts in the first two ODIs to lead the series 2-0. Currently, Mitchell Marsh is in the stand-in skipper’s role while Pat Cummins and Steve Smith spend time away from the team. Both are nursing a wrist injury while Mitchell Starc is also unavailable for the series.

The trio is expected to return for the ODI series against India later in the month while they begin their World Cup campaign against the same side on Sunday, October 8.

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Australia’s ace all-rounder Ashton Agar is geared up for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he will share the bowling podium with compatriot Adam Zampa in India. Agar, who is all set to leave for Australia from South Africa for a paternity leave, will be an important member as his side targets a record sixth World Cup in India.

Australia’s ace all-rounder Ashton Agar is geared up for the upcoming ODI World Cup as he will share the bowling podium with compatriot Adam Zampa in India. Agar, who is all set to leave for Australia from South Africa for a paternity leave, will be an important member as his side targets a record sixth World Cup in India. Agar, 29, was recently included in Australia’s ODI World Cup squad that also features Zampa, who is likely to be the first choice. Agar ready for Zampa’s company "I can't wait to play with Zamps in that World Cup," Agar, speaking before the South Africa tour, said. "We're ripe for it, we're pretty experienced now, we've played a lot of games together. "When we play together, we usually have a pretty good impact on the game. We just know each other so well, we're good friends, we just know what to do out there and we communicate nicely. We seem to complement each other with our skillsets,” the Aussie all-rounder added. The coming ODI World Cup in India will be a great chance for the Aussies to yet again stamp their authority on the cricketing world. They currently hold the World Test Championship (WTC), having won the title in England in June while they were also T20 World Cup champions in 2021. An ODI World Cup in India will complete the World Championship set for the side in span of less than two years. In his eight years with the side, Agar has not featured prominently as he only accounts for 21 wickets while playing just 22 matches. During this period, he has been facing stiff competition from Zampa having made his ODI debut in 2016. During the same period, Zampa played in 81 matches while scalping 136 wickets for the national side. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Yuvraj was in a different league, Hardik & Jadeja aren't quite there - Manjrekar makes big claim Australia prepare for World Cup The Aussies currently in South Africa have been in great form as they seek momentum before the showpiece tournament. The Aussies won the T20I series against the Proteas 3-0 while they got the better of the hosts in the first two ODIs to lead the series 2-0. Currently, Mitchell Marsh is in the stand-in skipper’s role while Pat Cummins and Steve Smith spend time away from the team. Both are nursing a wrist injury while Mitchell Starc is also unavailable for the series. The trio is expected to return for the ODI series against India later in the month while they begin their World Cup campaign against the same side on Sunday, October 8. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Ashton Agar ready to share bowling podium with Adam Zampa, says 'I can't wait to play'

Shubman Gill has his eyes set on the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, which will kick off in India on October 05. The Indian opener, who is currently playing&nbsp;in the Asia Cup 2023 edition, says that his aim is to win the home ODI WC title, where the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will open their campaign on October 08, in Chennai, versus Australia. Gill will be one of the most important batters for India in the mega event, especially given how impressive he has been in 2023.

In the ongoing calendar year, Gill has a double ton, two centuries and four half-centuries in the 50-over format. In addition, he struck three hundreds in IPL 2023 and scored his maiden T20I ton earlier&nbsp;this year. Moreover, he also slammed an impressive 128 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23 edition during the home Tests against Australia. Thus, Gill will be confident going into his maiden World Cup and will hope for more big knocks in the games in the run-up to the WC opener.&nbsp;

Speaking to the official broadcasters during the Super 4 round of the Asia Cup, in Colombo, Gill said&nbsp;that his goal was to win the World Cup. The 24-year-old mentioned, "The most important goal for me as a player right now is to win World Cup 2023. I recall being young when India won the World Cup in 2011. The mindset is to swiftly read the wicket and access the positions."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-all-over-the-place-shoaib-akhtar-names-his-toughest-opponent-from-indias-2003-04-tour-pakistan-634754">'I was all over the place...,' Shoaib Akhtar names his TOUGHEST OPPONENT from India's 2003-04 tour of Pakistan</a>

Gill added, “As a batsman, it is critical to quickly access the position and understand the speed. So the planning and play are all based on that. Mindset plays an important role as one has to switch mentally, like from an ODI mentality to a T20 one. The faster you switch, the faster your body adapts; thus, I believe being able to mentally switch is important."

The right-hander has been among the runs in the ongoing continental tournament -- jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. While missing out in India's group stage clash versus Pakistan, he came to his own with a sublime 67 not out versus Nepal and struck a praiseworthy 58 in India's ongoing Super 4 tie versus arch-rivals Pakistan. The game kicked off on Sunday (September 10), in Colombo, with Babar Azam &amp; Co. opting to bowl first. India rode on Gill and captain Rohit Sharma's&nbsp;(56) fifties to stitch a solid 121-run opening stand.&nbsp;

After Gill and Rohit's departures, India were well-placed at 147 for 2 in 24.1 overs with Virat Kohli (8 not out) and KL Rahul (28-ball 17*) in the middle before rain and wet outfield pushed the game to the reserve day. The proceedings will resume on Monday (September 11) with India looking for a big score.

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Shubman Gill has his eyes set on the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, which will kick off in India on October 05. The Indian opener, who is currently playing in the Asia Cup 2023 edition, says that his aim is to win the home ODI WC title, where the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will open their campaign on October 08, in Chennai, versus Australia.

Shubman Gill has his eyes set on the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, which will kick off in India on October 05. The Indian opener, who is currently playing in the Asia Cup 2023 edition, says that his aim is to win the home ODI WC title, where the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will open their campaign on October 08, in Chennai, versus Australia. Gill will be one of the most important batters for India in the mega event, especially given how impressive he has been in 2023. In the ongoing calendar year, Gill has a double ton, two centuries and four half-centuries in the 50-over format. In addition, he struck three hundreds in IPL 2023 and scored his maiden T20I ton earlier this year. Moreover, he also slammed an impressive 128 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23 edition during the home Tests against Australia. Thus, Gill will be confident going into his maiden World Cup and will hope for more big knocks in the games in the run-up to the WC opener. Speaking to the official broadcasters during the Super 4 round of the Asia Cup, in Colombo, Gill said that his goal was to win the World Cup. The 24-year-old mentioned, "The most important goal for me as a player right now is to win World Cup 2023. I recall being young when India won the World Cup in 2011. The mindset is to swiftly read the wicket and access the positions." Also read: 'I was all over the place...,' Shoaib Akhtar names his TOUGHEST OPPONENT from India's 2003-04 tour of Pakistan Gill added, “As a batsman, it is critical to quickly access the position and understand the speed. So the planning and play are all based on that. Mindset plays an important role as one has to switch mentally, like from an ODI mentality to a T20 one. The faster you switch, the faster your body adapts; thus, I believe being able to mentally switch is important." The right-hander has been among the runs in the ongoing continental tournament -- jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. While missing out in India's group stage clash versus Pakistan, he came to his own with a sublime 67 not out versus Nepal and struck a praiseworthy 58 in India's ongoing Super 4 tie versus arch-rivals Pakistan. The game kicked off on Sunday (September 10), in Colombo, with Babar Azam & Co. opting to bowl first. India rode on Gill and captain Rohit Sharma's (56) fifties to stitch a solid 121-run opening stand. After Gill and Rohit's departures, India were well-placed at 147 for 2 in 24.1 overs with Virat Kohli (8 not out) and KL Rahul (28-ball 17*) in the middle before rain and wet outfield pushed the game to the reserve day. The proceedings will resume on Monday (September 11) with India looking for a big score. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Most important goal is to win World Cup 2023, says Indian opener Shubman Gill

Australian cricket team is back on the top of the ICC ranking as the number one ODI team in the world. The Kangaroos were displaced by Pakistan briefly after the Men in Green beat Afghanistan 3-0 in a recent ODI series. Australia, however, have reclaimed the position after beating South Africa in the second ODI on September 9 of the ongoing series.

Australia currently are at 121 points, one clear of Pakistan, who are number two with 120 points. India are at the third place with 114 points and New Zealand occupy the fourth place with 106 points while England are at fifth place with 99 points.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-skipper-shakib-al-hasan-wants-odi-world-cup-bound-players-to-be-rested-for-new-zealand-series-634417">Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan wants ODI World Cup bound players to be rested for New Zealand series</a>

The rankings, however, are of little importance now as the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup is about to begin in less than a month. The marquee tournament, which is being held in India, will start on October 5 with the final scheduled on November 19.

<h2>Warner roars back in form ahead of World Cup</h2>

Australia opening batsman David Warner recorded his 20th ODI century during the second ODI against South Africa as his team took a 2-0 lead in the five-ODI series. Thanks to Warner's belligerent 106 and Marnus Labuschagne's 124, Australia &nbsp;posted a mammoth 392/8 in 50 overs and won the game by 123 runs.

Warner, who has been struggling for form for some time now, was sceptical of making it to Australia's ODI World Cup squad. The selectors, however, showed faith in him and the southpaw repaid it in the best way he can - scoring runs.

With the century, Warner also broke former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's record of most hundreds as an opener across formats. With his latest ton, Warner has 46 as an opener - 20 in ODIs, 25 in Tests and one in T20Is. Sachin, on the other hand, has scored all of 45 centuries as opener in ODIs only. In total, however, he has 49 ODI centuries to his name - a world record that still stands.

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Australian cricket team is back on the top of the ICC ranking as the number one ODI team in the world. The Kangaroos were displaced by Pakistan briefly after the Men in Green beat Afghanistan 3-0 in a recent ODI series.

Australian cricket team is back on the top of the ICC ranking as the number one ODI team in the world. The Kangaroos were displaced by Pakistan briefly after the Men in Green beat Afghanistan 3-0 in a recent ODI series. Australia, however, have reclaimed the position after beating South Africa in the second ODI on September 9 of the ongoing series. Australia currently are at 121 points, one clear of Pakistan, who are number two with 120 points. India are at the third place with 114 points and New Zealand occupy the fourth place with 106 points while England are at fifth place with 99 points. Also Read: Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan wants ODI World Cup bound players to be rested for New Zealand series The rankings, however, are of little importance now as the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup is about to begin in less than a month. The marquee tournament, which is being held in India, will start on October 5 with the final scheduled on November 19. Warner roars back in form ahead of World Cup Australia opening batsman David Warner recorded his 20th ODI century during the second ODI against South Africa as his team took a 2-0 lead in the five-ODI series. Thanks to Warner's belligerent 106 and Marnus Labuschagne's 124, Australia posted a mammoth 392/8 in 50 overs and won the game by 123 runs. Warner, who has been struggling for form for some time now, was sceptical of making it to Australia's ODI World Cup squad. The selectors, however, showed faith in him and the southpaw repaid it in the best way he can - scoring runs. With the century, Warner also broke former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's record of most hundreds as an opener across formats. With his latest ton, Warner has 46 as an opener - 20 in ODIs, 25 in Tests and one in T20Is. Sachin, on the other hand, has scored all of 45 centuries as opener in ODIs only. In total, however, he has 49 ODI centuries to his name - a world record that still stands. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia back on top in ICC ODI rankings ahead of ODI World Cup

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the officiating panel for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India as the top names will call the game starting from Thursday, October 5. The ICC announced a 20-member team for the World Cup that comprises of 16 umpires and four referees. India’s Nitin Menon and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Dharmasena will take charge of the curtain-raiser contest between England and New Zealand that will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

<h2>Officiating panel for ODI World Cup</h2>

The ODI World Cup will kick start in a repeat of the 2019 edition final as New Zealand will square off against defending champions England. The 20-member panel will officiate in the league stage with officials for the semifinal and final to be named after the initial stage. The officiating team will work on 48 matches during the tournament with the final taking place at the same venue as the curtain-raiser contest in Ahmedabad.

Of the 16 umpires to officiate at the World Cup, 12 belong to the elite panel of ICC umpires. The remaining four belong to the ICC Emerging Umpire Panel. They include Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid (Bangladesh), Paul Wilson (Australia), Alex Wharf (England) and Chris Brown (New Zealand).

The trio of Dharmasena, Erasmus and Tucker had officiated in the 2019 World Cup final with another veteran Aleem Dar stepping down from the elite panel of ICC umpires in March.

Sean Easey, ICC Senior Manager – Umpires and Referees believes that this group would do an excellent job during the global event.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-eyes-chris-gayles-unique-odi-record-showers-praise-on-rahul-dravid-633713">Rohit Sharma eyes Chris Gayle's unique ODI record, showers praise on Rahul Dravid</a>

“We are pleased to announce the match officials who will be officiating at the biggest ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup ever,” Easey said. “This group is the very best from around the world and we believe that they are ready to perform what will be a challenging job with the eyes of the global cricketing community focussed on every decision.”

“We are confident that they will do an excellent job and wish them all the best of luck for what will surely be a World Cup to remember.”

<h2>List of Umpires</h2>

They are Christopher Gaffaney (New Zealand), Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka), Marais Erasmus (South Africa), Michael Gough (England), Nitin Menon (India), Paul Reiffel (Australia), Richard Illingworth (England), Richard Kettleborough (England), Rodney Tucker (Australia), Joel Wilson (West Indies), Ahsan Raza (Pakistan), and Adrian Holdstock (South Africa).

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the officiating panel for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India as the top names will call the game starting from Thursday, October 5.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the officiating panel for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India as the top names will call the game starting from Thursday, October 5. The ICC announced a 20-member team for the World Cup that comprises of 16 umpires and four referees. India’s Nitin Menon and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Dharmasena will take charge of the curtain-raiser contest between England and New Zealand that will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Officiating panel for ODI World Cup The ODI World Cup will kick start in a repeat of the 2019 edition final as New Zealand will square off against defending champions England. The 20-member panel will officiate in the league stage with officials for the semifinal and final to be named after the initial stage. The officiating team will work on 48 matches during the tournament with the final taking place at the same venue as the curtain-raiser contest in Ahmedabad. Of the 16 umpires to officiate at the World Cup, 12 belong to the elite panel of ICC umpires. The remaining four belong to the ICC Emerging Umpire Panel. They include Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid (Bangladesh), Paul Wilson (Australia), Alex Wharf (England) and Chris Brown (New Zealand). The trio of Dharmasena, Erasmus and Tucker had officiated in the 2019 World Cup final with another veteran Aleem Dar stepping down from the elite panel of ICC umpires in March. Sean Easey, ICC Senior Manager – Umpires and Referees believes that this group would do an excellent job during the global event. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma eyes Chris Gayle's unique ODI record, showers praise on Rahul Dravid “We are pleased to announce the match officials who will be officiating at the biggest ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup ever,” Easey said. “This group is the very best from around the world and we believe that they are ready to perform what will be a challenging job with the eyes of the global cricketing community focussed on every decision.” “We are confident that they will do an excellent job and wish them all the best of luck for what will surely be a World Cup to remember.” List of Umpires They are Christopher Gaffaney (New Zealand), Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka), Marais Erasmus (South Africa), Michael Gough (England), Nitin Menon (India), Paul Reiffel (Australia), Richard Illingworth (England), Richard Kettleborough (England), Rodney Tucker (Australia), Joel Wilson (West Indies), Ahsan Raza (Pakistan), and Adrian Holdstock (South Africa). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Nitin Menon, Kumar Dharmasena to officiate in ENG vs NZ curtain-raiser

England’s star batter Harry Brook has been given an ODI World Cup lifeline as he has been included in the England squad for the New Zealand and Ireland series. The squad announced on Wednesday, September 6 sees the inclusion of the T20 World Cup winner who was surprisingly overlooked for the ODI World Cup squad. However, with amendments in the squad still possible until September 27, Brook could still make the England squad for the ODI World Cup.

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Harry Brook has been added to our ODI squad to face New Zealand as batting cover 👊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/dVcGTcEeh2">pic.twitter.com/dVcGTcEeh2</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1699443588256456793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Brook included in England squad</h2>

England are set to face New Zealand in a four-match ODI series followed by an Ireland tour later in the month. While the competition for places is still high, Brook’s inclusion in the squad for the series could come as a big spanner in the work for the likes of Jason Roy, Dawid Malan, and Liam Livingstone as they are struggling for form.

If Brook makes the desired impact on the side during both the series, he could be on the plane to India for the World Cup. However, this could mean one of Roy, Malan, and Livingstone could miss out on the showpiece event. As things stand, if Brook is drafted into the World Cup squad, Roy could make way for him as the other two options offer utility options.

The 24-year-old Yorkshire star has played only three ODIs for the national team where he has scored 86 runs with a best of 80. He was an important member of the squad that won the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-fitness-of-these-two-players-key-for-indias-campaign-says-former-aussie-batsman-tom-moody-632853">CWC '23: Fitness of THESE two players key for India's campaign, says former Aussie batsman Tom Moody</a>

The ODI series against New Zealand will start on Friday, September 8 while the Ireland tour starts later in the month and will conclude on September 26. England are due to fly to India on September 27 with suspense still hanging on Brook’s inclusion in the team.

<h2>England squad to play Ireland</h2>

Rehan Ahmed, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley (captain), Ben Duckett (vice-captain), Sam Hain, Will Jacks, Craig Overton, Matthew Potts, Phil Salt, George Scrimshaw, Jamie Smith, Luke Wood

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England’s star batter Harry Brook has been given an ODI World Cup lifeline as he has been included in the England squad for the New Zealand and Ireland series. The squad announced on Wednesday, September 6 sees the inclusion of the T20 World Cup winner who was surprisingly overlooked for the ODI World Cup squad.

England’s star batter Harry Brook has been given an ODI World Cup lifeline as he has been included in the England squad for the New Zealand and Ireland series. The squad announced on Wednesday, September 6 sees the inclusion of the T20 World Cup winner who was surprisingly overlooked for the ODI World Cup squad. However, with amendments in the squad still possible until September 27, Brook could still make the England squad for the ODI World Cup. Harry Brook has been added to our ODI squad to face New Zealand as batting cover 👊 #EnglandCricket | #ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/dVcGTcEeh2 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 6, 2023 × Brook included in England squad England are set to face New Zealand in a four-match ODI series followed by an Ireland tour later in the month. While the competition for places is still high, Brook’s inclusion in the squad for the series could come as a big spanner in the work for the likes of Jason Roy, Dawid Malan, and Liam Livingstone as they are struggling for form. If Brook makes the desired impact on the side during both the series, he could be on the plane to India for the World Cup. However, this could mean one of Roy, Malan, and Livingstone could miss out on the showpiece event. As things stand, if Brook is drafted into the World Cup squad, Roy could make way for him as the other two options offer utility options. The 24-year-old Yorkshire star has played only three ODIs for the national team where he has scored 86 runs with a best of 80. He was an important member of the squad that won the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. ALSO READ | CWC '23: Fitness of THESE two players key for India's campaign, says former Aussie batsman Tom Moody The ODI series against New Zealand will start on Friday, September 8 while the Ireland tour starts later in the month and will conclude on September 26. England are due to fly to India on September 27 with suspense still hanging on Brook’s inclusion in the team. England squad to play Ireland Rehan Ahmed, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley (captain), Ben Duckett (vice-captain), Sam Hain, Will Jacks, Craig Overton, Matthew Potts, Phil Salt, George Scrimshaw, Jamie Smith, Luke Wood WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Harry Brook to give ODI World Cup audition as star player included in latest England squad to face NZ, Ireland

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