Australia on Sunday lost the third and final ODI in Hobart by 40 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 321 runs set by South Africa.

After openers Chris Lynn and Aaron Finch lost their wickets early, Shaun Marsh played a pivotal inning and went on to slam 106 to bring Australia back in the game.

However, his century went in vain as Proteas registered an easy win to clinch the three-game ODI series by 2-1.&nbsp;

Apart from Marsh, Marcus Stoinis made 63 runs while &nbsp;Alex Carey (wk) and Glenn Maxwell contributed 43 and 35 runs respectively.&nbsp;

The last three batsmen for Australia failed to open their account and went back to the pavilion on a duck.&nbsp;

For South Africa, Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada grabbed three wickets each to end Australia's inning.&nbsp;

Earlier, David Miller and Faf du Plessis had hit centuries to power South Africa to a huge total in the deciding ODI. The duo had build-up a 252-run partnership after the Proteas were reduced to 55 for the loss of three wickets at a point.&nbsp;

The Proteas won the opening game of the series by six wickets and Australia snapped their seven-game losing streak to clinch the second by seven runs.

The two teams will next lock horns in the one-off T20I at Carrara Oval, Queensland on November 17.&nbsp;

Australia on Sunday lost the third and final ODI in Hobart by 40 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 321 runs set by South Africa. After openers Chris Lynn and Aaron Finch lost their wickets early, Shaun Marsh played a pivotal inning and went on to slam 106 to bring Australia back in the game.

Australia on Sunday lost the third and final ODI in Hobart by 40 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 321 runs set by South Africa. After openers Chris Lynn and Aaron Finch lost their wickets early, Shaun Marsh played a pivotal inning and went on to slam 106 to bring Australia back in the game. However, his century went in vain as Proteas registered an easy win to clinch the three-game ODI series by 2-1. Apart from Marsh, Marcus Stoinis made 63 runs while Alex Carey (wk) and Glenn Maxwell contributed 43 and 35 runs respectively. The last three batsmen for Australia failed to open their account and went back to the pavilion on a duck. For South Africa, Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada grabbed three wickets each to end Australia's inning. Earlier, David Miller and Faf du Plessis had hit centuries to power South Africa to a huge total in the deciding ODI. The duo had build-up a 252-run partnership after the Proteas were reduced to 55 for the loss of three wickets at a point. The Proteas won the opening game of the series by six wickets and Australia snapped their seven-game losing streak to clinch the second by seven runs. The two teams will next lock horns in the one-off T20I at Carrara Oval, Queensland on November 17.

3rd ODI: South Africa beat Australia by 40 runs, win series

30 unique facts about Virat Kohli on his 30th birthday

Babar Azam became the fastest player to reach 1,000 Twenty20 international runs as Pakistan scored 166-3 in the third and final match against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.

When Azam reached 48 he completed the landmark in just 26 innings, beating the previous record set by India's Virat Kohli who reached 1,000 runs in 27 Twenty20 innings.

Azam finished with a 58-ball 79 with two sixes and seven boundaries while Mohammad Hafeez scored a 34-ball 53 after Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat at Dubai stadium.

Pakistan enjoy an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Babar Azam became the fastest player to reach 1,000 Twenty20 international runs as Pakistan scored 166-3 in the third and final match against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.

Babar Azam became the fastest player to reach 1,000 Twenty20 international runs as Pakistan scored 166-3 in the third and final match against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. When Azam reached 48 he completed the landmark in just 26 innings, beating the previous record set by India's Virat Kohli who reached 1,000 runs in 27 Twenty20 innings. Azam finished with a 58-ball 79 with two sixes and seven boundaries while Mohammad Hafeez scored a 34-ball 53 after Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat at Dubai stadium. Pakistan enjoy an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Babar Azam beats Kohli's 1,000-run landmark

Indian cricket team's Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement from the game's long-form, including the Ranji Trophy, to focus on limited-over&nbsp;cricket.&nbsp;

With virtually no chance of playing Test cricket, Rayudu has decided to hang up his "first-class"&nbsp;boots.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old's decision might help him prolong his white-ball career, especially now that he is back to the Indian ODI and is batting at No. 4.

Rayudu was supposed to join the Hyderabad Ranji team from the second round of matches. But on Saturday, in a letter to the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), he announced his retirement from first-class cricket.&nbsp;

“I will continue to play international and domestic matches of the shorter version. And, I take this opportunity to thank the BCCI, HCA, Baroda Cricket Association and also Vidarbha Cricket Association for giving me the opportunities over the years,” he wrote in his letter.

Rayudu’s first-class career spanned 17 years after he made his debut as a 16-year-old during the 2001-02 season. He scored 6,151 runs in 97 matches including 16 hundreds.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team's Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement from the game's long-form, including the Ranji Trophy, to focus on limited-over cricket. With virtually no chance of playing Test cricket, Rayudu has decided to hang up his "first-class" boots.

Indian cricket team's Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement from the game's long-form, including the Ranji Trophy, to focus on limited-over cricket. With virtually no chance of playing Test cricket, Rayudu has decided to hang up his "first-class" boots. The 33-year-old's decision might help him prolong his white-ball career, especially now that he is back to the Indian ODI and is batting at No. 4. Rayudu was supposed to join the Hyderabad Ranji team from the second round of matches. But on Saturday, in a letter to the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), he announced his retirement from first-class cricket. “I will continue to play international and domestic matches of the shorter version. And, I take this opportunity to thank the BCCI, HCA, Baroda Cricket Association and also Vidarbha Cricket Association for giving me the opportunities over the years,” he wrote in his letter. Rayudu’s first-class career spanned 17 years after he made his debut as a 16-year-old during the 2001-02 season. He scored 6,151 runs in 97 matches including 16 hundreds.

Ambati Rayudu retires. Wait, it's not what you think

South Africa hammered a careless Australia by six wickets in the first one-day international in Perth on Sunday, with a Dale Steyn-led pace onslaught exposing their batting frailties.

Set 153 to win, Proteas' openers Quinton de Kock (47) and Reeza Hendricks (44) helped secure victory with 124 balls to spare, leaving Australia with plenty to ponder ahead of the second of the three-game series in Adelaide on Friday.

The hosts came into the clash having lost 16 of their past 18 ODIs and with the reverberations of a ball-tampering scandal this year still hanging over them.

Coach Justin Langer was hoping they could put a smile back on the faces of fans in their first game on home soil since the cheating row boiled over in March.

But without the banned Steve Smith and David Warner, their batsmen were exposed once again in a stadium full of empty seats.

They were bowled out for just 152 in 38.1 overs with Nathan Coulter-Nile (34) and Alex Carey (33) the only ones to offer any resistance. Veteran Steyn took 2-18 off seven overs while Andile Phehlukwayo picked up 3-33 off six overs.

"We didn't play anywhere near our potential," said skipper Aaron Finch.

"We were a bit careless at times in the first innings. We were off the mark slowly.&nbsp;

"If you're defending 152, then nothing can go wrong with the ball. Unfortunately for us, Quinton and Reeza got off to a flier, and there was little we could do from there."

His opposite number Faf Du Plessis praised his team as "exceptional" with the ball and in the field.

"There was some counter-punching at the end, but a good day at the office overall," he said.

"All the bowlers today were great. It's great as a captain to have such X-factor in the bowling attack and they made sure to take advantage of the conditions."

The Proteas won the toss and after opting for a four-pronged pace attack chose to bowl, with Steyn getting two early breakthroughs.

Travis Head got a thick edge to de Kock off the veteran for just one and then D'Arcy Short, in the side for Shaun Marsh who needs minor surgery on an abscess, followed him back to the pavilion for a duck two balls later.

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SOUTH AFRICA LEAD SERIES 1-0 
 
Bowlers lead the charge as visitors register comprehensive six-wicket win over Australia in the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvSA</a> ODI in Perth. 
 
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Finch, who can be explosive when in full flight, totally misjudged the bounce from a Lungi Ngidi delivery and was out lbw soon after for five.

He mistakenly opted not to review with Australia floundering at 8-3 as replays revealed the ball would have gone over the stumps.

The first four of the innings, from Chris Lynn, didn't come until the 12th over, and he was caught behind for 15 on review not long after.

Carey kept the scoreboard slowly ticking over but he fell attempting to scoop an Imran Tahir ball over the head of de Kock before some late fireworks from Coulter-Nile took them past 150.

Australia were buoyant ahead of the game with injured fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins returning to spearhead the attack alongside Josh Hazlewood.

But they failed to emulate their South African counterparts.

Finch bizarrely opted to open the bowling with Coulter-Nile instead of Starc. He was smashed for 16 in his first over before being removed.

De Kock and Hendricks raced to a 94-run partnership before Coulter-Nile made amends on his return, having de Kock caught at mid-off going for another big hit.

Marcus Stoinis took the wickets of Hendricks, Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen before du Plessis and David Miller secured the win.

South Africa hammered a careless Australia by six wickets in the first one-day international in Perth on Sunday, with a Dale Steyn-led pace onslaught exposing their batting frailties.

South Africa hammered a careless Australia by six wickets in the first one-day international in Perth on Sunday, with a Dale Steyn-led pace onslaught exposing their batting frailties. Set 153 to win, Proteas' openers Quinton de Kock (47) and Reeza Hendricks (44) helped secure victory with 124 balls to spare, leaving Australia with plenty to ponder ahead of the second of the three-game series in Adelaide on Friday. The hosts came into the clash having lost 16 of their past 18 ODIs and with the reverberations of a ball-tampering scandal this year still hanging over them. Coach Justin Langer was hoping they could put a smile back on the faces of fans in their first game on home soil since the cheating row boiled over in March. But without the banned Steve Smith and David Warner, their batsmen were exposed once again in a stadium full of empty seats. They were bowled out for just 152 in 38.1 overs with Nathan Coulter-Nile (34) and Alex Carey (33) the only ones to offer any resistance. Veteran Steyn took 2-18 off seven overs while Andile Phehlukwayo picked up 3-33 off six overs. "We didn't play anywhere near our potential," said skipper Aaron Finch. "We were a bit careless at times in the first innings. We were off the mark slowly. "If you're defending 152, then nothing can go wrong with the ball. Unfortunately for us, Quinton and Reeza got off to a flier, and there was little we could do from there." His opposite number Faf Du Plessis praised his team as "exceptional" with the ball and in the field. "There was some counter-punching at the end, but a good day at the office overall," he said. "All the bowlers today were great. It's great as a captain to have such X-factor in the bowling attack and they made sure to take advantage of the conditions." The Proteas won the toss and after opting for a four-pronged pace attack chose to bowl, with Steyn getting two early breakthroughs. Travis Head got a thick edge to de Kock off the veteran for just one and then D'Arcy Short, in the side for Shaun Marsh who needs minor surgery on an abscess, followed him back to the pavilion for a duck two balls later. SOUTH AFRICA LEAD SERIES 1-0 Bowlers lead the charge as visitors register comprehensive six-wicket win over Australia in the first #AUSvSA ODI in Perth. REPORT ⬇️https://t.co/VPAotXVj67 pic.twitter.com/r2g9R5L2VL — ICC (@ICC) November 4, 2018 × Finch, who can be explosive when in full flight, totally misjudged the bounce from a Lungi Ngidi delivery and was out lbw soon after for five. He mistakenly opted not to review with Australia floundering at 8-3 as replays revealed the ball would have gone over the stumps. The first four of the innings, from Chris Lynn, didn't come until the 12th over, and he was caught behind for 15 on review not long after. Carey kept the scoreboard slowly ticking over but he fell attempting to scoop an Imran Tahir ball over the head of de Kock before some late fireworks from Coulter-Nile took them past 150. Australia were buoyant ahead of the game with injured fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins returning to spearhead the attack alongside Josh Hazlewood. But they failed to emulate their South African counterparts. Finch bizarrely opted to open the bowling with Coulter-Nile instead of Starc. He was smashed for 16 in his first over before being removed. De Kock and Hendricks raced to a 94-run partnership before Coulter-Nile made amends on his return, having de Kock caught at mid-off going for another big hit. Marcus Stoinis took the wickets of Hendricks, Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen before du Plessis and David Miller secured the win.

South Africa beat Australia by six wickets in 1st ODI

India captain Virat Kohli has said Mahendra Singh Dhoni continues to play a key role in their limited-overs team despite the wicketkeeper-batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announce-indias-t20-squads-for-wi-and-australia-series-ms-dhoni-dropped-173727">being omitted for upcoming Twenty20 matches </a>against West Indies and Australia.&nbsp;

India's chief selector MSK Prasad said Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik had been drafted in for six T20s this month as the side look to identify a backup wicketkeeper to Dhoni.&nbsp;

While the decision to omit Dhoni raised questions about the long-serving wicketkeeper's future in the shortest format of the game, Prasad said the 37-year-old was merely being rested.&nbsp;

Kohli, speaking to reporters on Thursday after his side secured a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-odi-rohit-kohli-chase-down-windies-total-in-145-overs-clinch-series-3-1-174897">3-1 victory over West Indies</a> in their five-match one-day international series, gave short shrift to questions regarding Dhoni's future.&nbsp;

"I think the selector has already addressed this if I'm not wrong," he said.&nbsp;

"And he's been spoken to firstly... So, I don't see any reason why I should be sitting here and explaining that. I think the selector has come out and explained exactly what happened.&nbsp;

"I think people are putting too much variables into this situation, which is not the case I can assure you of that," Kohli said.&nbsp;

By sitting out the T20s, Dhoni was giving an opportunity to younger players to get much-needed expereince, Kohli said.&nbsp;

"He's still a very integral part of this team and he just feels that in the T20 format, someone like Rishabh can get more chances," he added.

"It has got nothing to do with anything that other people are thinking and I, as captain, can certainly assure you of that."

Dhoni announced his sudden retirement from test cricket midway through an Australia series in 2014, with the Boxing Day match in Melbourne being the last of his 90 appearances in the longer format.

He has continued to compete in limited-overs internationals but local media have questioned whether he will be around for next year's one-day World Cup in England and Wales when Dhoni will be 38.

He remains supremely fit and his glove work is still of the highest quality but opinion is divided over whether age has diminished his batting.

Dhoni was once considered India's best finisher and no target was deemed out of reach with the boundary-hitting right-hander at the crease. He has scored 1,487 runs from 93 T20 internationals, at a strike-rate of over 127.

Pant, 21, has been making his mark with the bat and selectors could be planning ahead for not only next year's World Cup but the World Twenty20 the following year in Australia.

India captain Virat Kohli has said Mahendra Singh Dhoni continues to play a key role in their limited-overs team despite the wicketkeeper-batsman being omitted for upcoming Twenty20 matches against West Indies and Australia.

India captain Virat Kohli has said Mahendra Singh Dhoni continues to play a key role in their limited-overs team despite the wicketkeeper-batsman being omitted for upcoming Twenty20 matches against West Indies and Australia. India's chief selector MSK Prasad said Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik had been drafted in for six T20s this month as the side look to identify a backup wicketkeeper to Dhoni. While the decision to omit Dhoni raised questions about the long-serving wicketkeeper's future in the shortest format of the game, Prasad said the 37-year-old was merely being rested. Kohli, speaking to reporters on Thursday after his side secured a 3-1 victory over West Indies in their five-match one-day international series, gave short shrift to questions regarding Dhoni's future. "I think the selector has already addressed this if I'm not wrong," he said. "And he's been spoken to firstly... So, I don't see any reason why I should be sitting here and explaining that. I think the selector has come out and explained exactly what happened. "I think people are putting too much variables into this situation, which is not the case I can assure you of that," Kohli said. By sitting out the T20s, Dhoni was giving an opportunity to younger players to get much-needed expereince, Kohli said. "He's still a very integral part of this team and he just feels that in the T20 format, someone like Rishabh can get more chances," he added. "It has got nothing to do with anything that other people are thinking and I, as captain, can certainly assure you of that." Dhoni announced his sudden retirement from test cricket midway through an Australia series in 2014, with the Boxing Day match in Melbourne being the last of his 90 appearances in the longer format. He has continued to compete in limited-overs internationals but local media have questioned whether he will be around for next year's one-day World Cup in England and Wales when Dhoni will be 38. He remains supremely fit and his glove work is still of the highest quality but opinion is divided over whether age has diminished his batting. Dhoni was once considered India's best finisher and no target was deemed out of reach with the boundary-hitting right-hander at the crease. He has scored 1,487 runs from 93 T20 internationals, at a strike-rate of over 127. Pant, 21, has been making his mark with the bat and selectors could be planning ahead for not only next year's World Cup but the World Twenty20 the following year in Australia.

MS Dhoni 'very integral' part of team, says captain Virat Kohli

Former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali on Thursday announced his retirement from one-day international cricket. The right-handed batsman said he wanted to focus on his test career.

"I haven't taken this decision suddenly. I have been thinking about it," Azhar told reporters in Lahore. "It's the right time to focus on tests. There have been terrific players in one-dayers in the Pakistan set-up.

"I want to concentrate on tests with the same fitness and energy that I have been. I didn't decide to retire after any hard feelings. It's my personal decision."

The 33-year-old became captain of Pakistan's ODI side after the 2015 World Cup but was replaced by Sarfraz Ahmed at the start of 2017 after a string of poor results.

Former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali on Thursday announced his retirement from one-day international cricket. The right-handed batsman said he wanted to focus on his test career.

Former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali on Thursday announced his retirement from one-day international cricket. The right-handed batsman said he wanted to focus on his test career. "I haven't taken this decision suddenly. I have been thinking about it," Azhar told reporters in Lahore. "It's the right time to focus on tests. There have been terrific players in one-dayers in the Pakistan set-up. "I want to concentrate on tests with the same fitness and energy that I have been. I didn't decide to retire after any hard feelings. It's my personal decision." The 33-year-old became captain of Pakistan's ODI side after the 2015 World Cup but was replaced by Sarfraz Ahmed at the start of 2017 after a string of poor results.

Pakistan's Azhar Ali retires from one-day internationals

Khaleel Ahmed, a 20-year-old left-arm pacer who has earned praise from the likes of Zaheer Khan and Rahul Dravid, scalped three crucial wickets to power India to 224-run victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI on Monday.&nbsp;

Windies star batsman Shimron Hetmyer, Marlon Samuels and Rovman Powell were the wickets he clinched in the five overs he bowled, giving just 13 runs, bringing the economy to 2.60, something which cannot be ignored. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The out and out fast bowler had played in the Quadrangular trophy for India A where he picked up seven wickets in four matches, including 3/45 against South Africa A in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Prior to that, Khaleel played five List-A matches for India A in England and impressed with eight wickets.

Son of a compounder, Khaleel hails from the small town of Tonk in Rajasthan.&nbsp;

With 12 wickets in three innings, including 3/29 against Sri Lanka in the final of the Tri-Nation Under-19s tournament in Colombo, he broke into India’s Under-19 World Cup squad in 2016.&nbsp;

It was the same year where he was picked up by the IPL franchise Delhi, where his association began with the then coach of the franchise Rahul Dravid.&nbsp;

In two years, Khaleel’s development has impressed Dravid to an extent that he feels the left-arm pacer can be part of India’s bench-strength and a potential candidate for the World Cup in England next year.

Khaleel actually came into light after he was bought for a whopping amount of Rs 3 crore by another IPL franchise Hyderabad on the first day of Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions.

He moved to Hyderabad this year but played just one match and went wicketless.

Ahmed's father used to hate cricket and even tried to dissuade him from playing, however, his then coach Imtiyaz Khan, played a big part in convincing Khaleel's father to let him continue playing.&nbsp;

Within a short span, Khaleel has earned him a place for himself but it will be his consistency that will earn him the chance to bowl in 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

Khaleel Ahmed, a 20-year-old left-arm pacer who has earned praise from the likes of Zaheer Khan and Rahul Dravid, scalped three crucial wickets to power India to 224-run victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI on Monday.

Khaleel Ahmed, a 20-year-old left-arm pacer who has earned praise from the likes of Zaheer Khan and Rahul Dravid, scalped three crucial wickets to power India to 224-run victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI on Monday. Windies star batsman Shimron Hetmyer, Marlon Samuels and Rovman Powell were the wickets he clinched in the five overs he bowled, giving just 13 runs, bringing the economy to 2.60, something which cannot be ignored. The out and out fast bowler had played in the Quadrangular trophy for India A where he picked up seven wickets in four matches, including 3/45 against South Africa A in Bengaluru. Prior to that, Khaleel played five List-A matches for India A in England and impressed with eight wickets. Son of a compounder, Khaleel hails from the small town of Tonk in Rajasthan. With 12 wickets in three innings, including 3/29 against Sri Lanka in the final of the Tri-Nation Under-19s tournament in Colombo, he broke into India’s Under-19 World Cup squad in 2016. It was the same year where he was picked up by the IPL franchise Delhi, where his association began with the then coach of the franchise Rahul Dravid. In two years, Khaleel’s development has impressed Dravid to an extent that he feels the left-arm pacer can be part of India’s bench-strength and a potential candidate for the World Cup in England next year. Khaleel actually came into light after he was bought for a whopping amount of Rs 3 crore by another IPL franchise Hyderabad on the first day of Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions. He moved to Hyderabad this year but played just one match and went wicketless. Ahmed's father used to hate cricket and even tried to dissuade him from playing, however, his then coach Imtiyaz Khan, played a big part in convincing Khaleel's father to let him continue playing. Within a short span, Khaleel has earned him a place for himself but it will be his consistency that will earn him the chance to bowl in 2019 World Cup.

Khaleel Ahmed: India's left-handed seamer in contention for 2019 World Cup

India will look to find the 'perfect' balance in their playing eleven when they take on a resurgent West Indies in the fourth One-day International here on Monday.&nbsp;

Going with five specialist bowlers in Pune on Saturday did not work for India, who ended up as the losing side for the first time in the home series against the West Indies.

With the series surprisingly tied at 1-1 and two matches to go, Virat Kohli's team finds itself in a must-win situation at the Cricket Club of India (CCI).&nbsp;

Credit must be given to the West Indies, who have not only moved on from a dismal Test series but have given the formidable hosts a run for their money in the one-day format.&nbsp;

As Kohli pointed out after the 43-run loss in the third ODI, the return of Kedar Jadhav from injury will give the team a much-needed depth in both the batting and bowling department.&nbsp;

"You will always drift to one side when you don't have the balance. We have to think about the perfect balance we need," said the skipper after the defeat.

An unstable middle-order and lack of runs from MS Dhoni's bat are another issues facing India, not just for Monday's fixture but also in the long run with 15 games remaining before the World Cup in England next year.&nbsp;

Having lost his place in the T20 team, Dhoni is in desperate need of runs in the limited opportunities that are left ahead of the 50-over showpiece event.

Ambati Rayudu (22) did get a start in Pune but if the right-hander wants to hold on to the number four spot, he will have to keep scoring consistently.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant, who batted at five ahead of Dhoni in the previous game, has been his usual aggressive self but a significant score in his debut ODI series is still awaited.&nbsp;

Amid all the uncertainty, Jadhav's return in the middle-order is more than welcome. His fitness has been a concern in the recent past but he looked good in his first competitive game, played during the Deodhar Trophy, after recovering from a hamstring injury.&nbsp;

Besides his powerful hitting, his off-spin could also come handy. 
Openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who have had twin failures, are due for a big partnership.&nbsp;

The biggest positive for the hosts has been the form of skipper Kohli, who struck his third hundred in a row during the third ODI, becoming the first Indian to do so.

While most will back Kohli to get another hundred at the CCI, the skipper would be expecting a much-improved performance from his team.&nbsp;

On the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah made a stunning comeback, clinching four wickets last night. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, however, conceded runs in the death overs but trust him to bounce back.

The role of both the spinners -- Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav -- will be crucial in restricting the opposition batsmen.

For the West Indies, their biggest asset has been wicket-keeper Shai Hope, who has played two key innings, a 123 in Visakhapatnam followed by a crucial 95 in Pune.

He would be hoping for another big knock tomorrow and so will Shimron Hetmyer, who failed to convert his start in the third game.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old southpaw, who had scores of 106 and 94 before the Pune game, would be the one watch out for again.

Apart from these two star players, Windies would be hoping that the likes of Kieron Powell, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Rovman Powell fire in the crucial contest.

The experienced Marlon Samuels shone with the ball last night with three wickets but his bat has not done the talking so far. Skipper Jason Holder would also be itching to make a match-winning contribution.

The bowlers would have taken confidence from bundling out India in Pune. Pacer Obed McCoy and off-spinner Ashley Nurse will be high on confidence as the West Indies aim to take the series lead.

With the encounter on Monday, international cricket returns to the CCI, which last hosted a Test in 2009 and an ODI back in 2006. 
&nbsp;

India will look to find the 'perfect' balance in their playing eleven when they take on a resurgent West Indies in the fourth One-day International here on Monday.

India will look to find the 'perfect' balance in their playing eleven when they take on a resurgent West Indies in the fourth One-day International here on Monday. Going with five specialist bowlers in Pune on Saturday did not work for India, who ended up as the losing side for the first time in the home series against the West Indies. With the series surprisingly tied at 1-1 and two matches to go, Virat Kohli's team finds itself in a must-win situation at the Cricket Club of India (CCI). Credit must be given to the West Indies, who have not only moved on from a dismal Test series but have given the formidable hosts a run for their money in the one-day format. As Kohli pointed out after the 43-run loss in the third ODI, the return of Kedar Jadhav from injury will give the team a much-needed depth in both the batting and bowling department. "You will always drift to one side when you don't have the balance. We have to think about the perfect balance we need," said the skipper after the defeat. An unstable middle-order and lack of runs from MS Dhoni's bat are another issues facing India, not just for Monday's fixture but also in the long run with 15 games remaining before the World Cup in England next year. Having lost his place in the T20 team, Dhoni is in desperate need of runs in the limited opportunities that are left ahead of the 50-over showpiece event. Ambati Rayudu (22) did get a start in Pune but if the right-hander wants to hold on to the number four spot, he will have to keep scoring consistently. Rishabh Pant, who batted at five ahead of Dhoni in the previous game, has been his usual aggressive self but a significant score in his debut ODI series is still awaited. Amid all the uncertainty, Jadhav's return in the middle-order is more than welcome. His fitness has been a concern in the recent past but he looked good in his first competitive game, played during the Deodhar Trophy, after recovering from a hamstring injury. Besides his powerful hitting, his off-spin could also come handy. Openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who have had twin failures, are due for a big partnership. The biggest positive for the hosts has been the form of skipper Kohli, who struck his third hundred in a row during the third ODI, becoming the first Indian to do so. While most will back Kohli to get another hundred at the CCI, the skipper would be expecting a much-improved performance from his team. On the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah made a stunning comeback, clinching four wickets last night. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, however, conceded runs in the death overs but trust him to bounce back. The role of both the spinners -- Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav -- will be crucial in restricting the opposition batsmen. For the West Indies, their biggest asset has been wicket-keeper Shai Hope, who has played two key innings, a 123 in Visakhapatnam followed by a crucial 95 in Pune. He would be hoping for another big knock tomorrow and so will Shimron Hetmyer, who failed to convert his start in the third game. The 21-year-old southpaw, who had scores of 106 and 94 before the Pune game, would be the one watch out for again. Apart from these two star players, Windies would be hoping that the likes of Kieron Powell, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Rovman Powell fire in the crucial contest. The experienced Marlon Samuels shone with the ball last night with three wickets but his bat has not done the talking so far. Skipper Jason Holder would also be itching to make a match-winning contribution. The bowlers would have taken confidence from bundling out India in Pune. Pacer Obed McCoy and off-spinner Ashley Nurse will be high on confidence as the West Indies aim to take the series lead. With the encounter on Monday, international cricket returns to the CCI, which last hosted a Test in 2009 and an ODI back in 2006.

IND vs WI, 4th ODI: India seek 'perfect' balance against determined West Indies

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against West Indies in the fourth one-day clash at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium on Monday.

West Indies registered a stunning 43-run win in the third ODI to level the series 1-1.

After winning the toss, Kohli said, "They (Windies) play fearless cricket, we are not taking anything lightly."

He also added, "Considering all the factors, giving our bowlers the best time to bowl was also the decision behind to bat first. We have known from game one."

Windies captain Jason Holder said, "We are just looking forward to the game today. This is an important game."

For India, Ravindra Jadeja has been included at the place of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kedar Jadhav is back replacing Rishabh Pant.

For Windies, Keemo Paul has been added to the squad and at the place of Obed McCoy.

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Toss won. We will bat first 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/GQQAxDV5WX">pic.twitter.com/GQQAxDV5WX</a>
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Playing XI

West Indies: Kieran Powell, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope(w), Marlon Samuels, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder(c), Fabian Allen, Ashley Nurse, Kemar Roach, Keemo Paul

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w), Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, K Khaleel Ahmed, Jasprit Bumrah

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against West Indies in the fourth one-day clash at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium on Monday. West Indies registered a stunning 43-run win in the third ODI to level the series 1-1.

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against West Indies in the fourth one-day clash at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium on Monday. West Indies registered a stunning 43-run win in the third ODI to level the series 1-1. After winning the toss, Kohli said, "They (Windies) play fearless cricket, we are not taking anything lightly." He also added, "Considering all the factors, giving our bowlers the best time to bowl was also the decision behind to bat first. We have known from game one." Windies captain Jason Holder said, "We are just looking forward to the game today. This is an important game." For India, Ravindra Jadeja has been included at the place of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kedar Jadhav is back replacing Rishabh Pant. For Windies, Keemo Paul has been added to the squad and at the place of Obed McCoy. Toss won. We will bat first 💪#INDvWI pic.twitter.com/GQQAxDV5WX — BCCI (@BCCI) October 29, 2018 × Playing XI West Indies: Kieran Powell, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope(w), Marlon Samuels, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder(c), Fabian Allen, Ashley Nurse, Kemar Roach, Keemo Paul India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w), Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, K Khaleel Ahmed, Jasprit Bumrah

IND vs WI, 4th ODI: Virat Kohli wins toss, chooses to bat against West Indies

Ashley Nurse, who was awarded player of the match for his all-round performance in West Indies' <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-3rd-odi-virat-kohli-completes-half-century-india-are-119-2-after-23-overs-173870">43-run win over India</a> in the third one-day, hailed his team's efforts for the victory.

The lower batting over of West Indies squad made the difference, also Indian bowlers leaked plenty of runs in death overs that helped the guests to level the series 1-1.

Nurse, who played a crucial role in his side's win, said his team was showing the people that they are here to play.

"It was a very good performance by the boys. No one gave us a chance when we came but I think we're showing the public out here that we are here to play," Nurse told reporters at the post-match media conference.

Nurse's 22-ball 40 helped the visitors post a competitive 283-9 on the board after losing quick wickets.&nbsp;

He also took two crucial wickets in the middle overs with his off-spin, including that of the opener Shikhar Dhawan, helped them successfully defend the total.

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It's all over here in Pune. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> all out for 240 
 
Windies win by 43 runs. 
 
The series now stands at 1-1 with two games to go <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/drnpfUqfHx">pic.twitter.com/drnpfUqfHx</a>
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"I guess it was my day. I guess I played with a lot of free spirit. When Shai got out, I had to do something because the score was not that big," said Nurse.

"Sometimes you can be the hero, sometimes it can go down to zero as well. If I get a 50-50 chance to win the game, I back myself to do it," he added.

Nurse also talked about Pune's wicket.

"It's just good to see the boys play consistent cricket and giving India a run for their money," he said.

"It was a good wicket but a bit on the slower side. Don't think the wicket had any devils in it. I just thought from our side Shai got a nice 95 and Virat got a hundred for India. It wasn't a belter. You had to work for your runs but it was a pretty good wicket," he added.

Ashley Nurse, who was awarded player of the match for his all-round performance in West Indies' 43-run win over India in the third one-day, hailed his team's efforts for the victory.

Ashley Nurse, who was awarded player of the match for his all-round performance in West Indies' 43-run win over India in the third one-day, hailed his team's efforts for the victory. The lower batting over of West Indies squad made the difference, also Indian bowlers leaked plenty of runs in death overs that helped the guests to level the series 1-1. Nurse, who played a crucial role in his side's win, said his team was showing the people that they are here to play. "It was a very good performance by the boys. No one gave us a chance when we came but I think we're showing the public out here that we are here to play," Nurse told reporters at the post-match media conference. Nurse's 22-ball 40 helped the visitors post a competitive 283-9 on the board after losing quick wickets. He also took two crucial wickets in the middle overs with his off-spin, including that of the opener Shikhar Dhawan, helped them successfully defend the total. It's all over here in Pune. #TeamIndia all out for 240 Windies win by 43 runs. The series now stands at 1-1 with two games to go #INDvWI pic.twitter.com/drnpfUqfHx — BCCI (@BCCI) October 27, 2018 × "I guess it was my day. I guess I played with a lot of free spirit. When Shai got out, I had to do something because the score was not that big," said Nurse. "Sometimes you can be the hero, sometimes it can go down to zero as well. If I get a 50-50 chance to win the game, I back myself to do it," he added. Nurse also talked about Pune's wicket. "It's just good to see the boys play consistent cricket and giving India a run for their money," he said. "It was a good wicket but a bit on the slower side. Don't think the wicket had any devils in it. I just thought from our side Shai got a nice 95 and Virat got a hundred for India. It wasn't a belter. You had to work for your runs but it was a pretty good wicket," he added.

We are showing public that we are here to play: Ashley Nurse

Australia have dropped Test skipper Tim Paine from their one-day squad for next month's series against South Africa and named opening batsman Aaron Finch as captain in his place.

Finch, who led his country's Twenty20 side to an 11-run defeat to Pakistan in Dubai on Friday to go 2-0 down in the series, will be supported by twovice-captainss in Josh Hazlewood and Alex Carey, echoing the Test structure.

Carey replaces Tim Paine as wicketkeeper in&nbsp;the 14-man squad for the three-match series which begins in Perth on Nov. 4 and also includes matches in Adelaide and Hobart.

"We expect Aaron, Josh and Alex to lead the side through a big Australian summer ... they'll also be driving our standards and values as we prepare&nbsp;our defence of the World Cup, which is only seven months away," chief selector Trevor Hohns said in a news release.

"We believe the squad we have selected will give us a great opportunity to not only be competitive at home this summer, but it also allows us to start to build continuity leading into next year's tournament."

Hazlewood returns to action for his country along with fellow quick Pat Cummins after both skipped the Test series against Pakistan because of injury.

The third member of Australia's much-vaunted pace attack, Mitchell Starc, returns to white ball cricket after missing the series in England earlier this year and despite an injury scare during the Pakistan Test series.

Steve Smith and David Warner are still banned for their part in the ball-tampering scandal during the Test series against the Proteas in March, giving the batting line-up an unfamiliar feel.

Finch, Travis Head and Marcus Stoinis look set to be the first three names on the list with Shaun Marsh retained at number four despite his poor Test form.

Changes to the squad from the England tour include the inclusion of quick Nathan Coulter-Nile and top order batsman Chris Lynn, who will get a chance to earn his second ODI cap nearly two years after his first.

Mitchell Marsh, the Test vice-captain, and off-spinner Nathan Lyon were omitted from the squad but Hohns said they had been rested.

"We have made the decision to manage Mitch Marsh and Nathan Lyon carefully to ensure they are in the best condition possible to put their hand up for selection either later in the summer or for the World Cup next year," he said.

Squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Alex Carey (vice-captain), Josh Hazlewood (vice-captain), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Travis Head, Chris Lynn, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Darcy Short, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Australia have dropped Test skipper Tim Paine from their one-day squad for next month's series against South Africa and named opening batsman Aaron Finch as captain in his place.

Australia have dropped Test skipper Tim Paine from their one-day squad for next month's series against South Africa and named opening batsman Aaron Finch as captain in his place. Finch, who led his country's Twenty20 side to an 11-run defeat to Pakistan in Dubai on Friday to go 2-0 down in the series, will be supported by twovice-captainss in Josh Hazlewood and Alex Carey, echoing the Test structure. Carey replaces Tim Paine as wicketkeeper in the 14-man squad for the three-match series which begins in Perth on Nov. 4 and also includes matches in Adelaide and Hobart. "We expect Aaron, Josh and Alex to lead the side through a big Australian summer ... they'll also be driving our standards and values as we prepare our defence of the World Cup, which is only seven months away," chief selector Trevor Hohns said in a news release. "We believe the squad we have selected will give us a great opportunity to not only be competitive at home this summer, but it also allows us to start to build continuity leading into next year's tournament." Hazlewood returns to action for his country along with fellow quick Pat Cummins after both skipped the Test series against Pakistan because of injury. The third member of Australia's much-vaunted pace attack, Mitchell Starc, returns to white ball cricket after missing the series in England earlier this year and despite an injury scare during the Pakistan Test series. Steve Smith and David Warner are still banned for their part in the ball-tampering scandal during the Test series against the Proteas in March, giving the batting line-up an unfamiliar feel. Finch, Travis Head and Marcus Stoinis look set to be the first three names on the list with Shaun Marsh retained at number four despite his poor Test form. Changes to the squad from the England tour include the inclusion of quick Nathan Coulter-Nile and top order batsman Chris Lynn, who will get a chance to earn his second ODI cap nearly two years after his first. Mitchell Marsh, the Test vice-captain, and off-spinner Nathan Lyon were omitted from the squad but Hohns said they had been rested. "We have made the decision to manage Mitch Marsh and Nathan Lyon carefully to ensure they are in the best condition possible to put their hand up for selection either later in the summer or for the World Cup next year," he said. Squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Alex Carey (vice-captain), Josh Hazlewood (vice-captain), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Travis Head, Chris Lynn, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Darcy Short, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Australia drop Tim Paine, name Aaron Finch as ODI captain

West Indies restricted India at 240 to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-3rd-odi-virat-kohli-completes-half-century-india-are-119-2-after-23-overs-173870">win the third one-day</a> clash by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

Virat Kohli, who top-scored with 107, said that it is "embarrassing" to talk about records when the team doesn't win the match.

Skipper Kohli, yet again, created a record as he became the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-batsman-to-score-3-consecutive-centuries-173880">first Indian batsman to score three consecutive centuries</a> in the one-day format.

After losing the match, Kohli said, "It is a bit embarrassing when people ask you the same thing again and again," when he asked about his record making streak.

Kohli, who is also the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs, slammed 38th one-day century of his career.

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Virat Kohli with his third ODI hundred in a row! 
 
What a player he is, he's scored 397 runs this series and has only been dismissed once. 
 
India are 202/5 and need another 82 to win.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 3rd ODI live ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN">https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN</a> <a href="https://t.co/q38zQe2Wgk">pic.twitter.com/q38zQe2Wgk</a>
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💯 No. 38 for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> 👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/sRu8KMg4Eh">pic.twitter.com/sRu8KMg4Eh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1056199161844920325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ahead of the match, during the toss, Kohli said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible."

His statement proves that India is preparing for the ICC World Cup 2019 which is scheduled to take place in England.

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

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

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

West Indies restricted India at 240 to win the third one-day match of a five-match&nbsp;series by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

While chasing the 283-run target, India kept losing wickets and the lower batting order failed again to perform.

India's skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-batsman-to-score-3-consecutive-centuries-173880">Virat Kohli</a>, who top-scored with 107, slammed the 38th&nbsp;century of his ODI career but apart from him none other batsman&nbsp;proved any significance.

Part-time spinner Marlon Samuels claimed three wickets while skipper Jason Holder, fellow paceman Obed McCoy and spinner Ashley Nurse took two each.

Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan opened India's innings but Rohit lost his wicket in the second over itself.

Ashley Nurse got another breakthrough when he took Shikhar Dhawan's wicket at 35.

Ambati Rayudu and Rishabh Pant lost their wickets after scoring 22 and 24 runs respectively.

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What a win for <a href="https://twitter.com/windiescricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@windiescricket</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/MarlonSamuels7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MarlonSamuels7</a> finishes off the job, taking a third wicket to bowl India out for 240. 
 
Windies win by 43 runs! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 3rd ODI REACTION ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN">https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN</a> <a href="https://t.co/XnKx1lGRk4">pic.twitter.com/XnKx1lGRk4</a>
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Earlier, batsman Shai Hope, who top-scored with 95, and bowler Ashley Nurse made crucial contributions as West Indies reached 283 for nine.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ms-dhonis-superman-like-catch-to-dismiss-chandrapaul-hemraj-in-3rd-odi-against-west-indies-173815">Watch: MS Dhoni's superman-like catch to dismiss Chandrapaul Hemraj in 3rd ODI against West Indies</a>

Hope hit 6 fours and 3 sixes in his 113-ball knock to give West Indies a fighting total.&nbsp;

Number-nine batsman Ashley Nurse also smashed a crucial 40 off 22 balls.

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets to return impressive figures of 4-35.

The fourth ODI is scheduled on Monday at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium.

West Indies restricted India at 240 to win the third one-day match of a five-match series by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

West Indies restricted India at 240 to win the third one-day match of a five-match series by 43 runs on Saturday at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. While chasing the 283-run target, India kept losing wickets and the lower batting order failed again to perform. India's skipper Virat Kohli, who top-scored with 107, slammed the 38th century of his ODI career but apart from him none other batsman proved any significance. Part-time spinner Marlon Samuels claimed three wickets while skipper Jason Holder, fellow paceman Obed McCoy and spinner Ashley Nurse took two each. Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan opened India's innings but Rohit lost his wicket in the second over itself. Ashley Nurse got another breakthrough when he took Shikhar Dhawan's wicket at 35. Ambati Rayudu and Rishabh Pant lost their wickets after scoring 22 and 24 runs respectively. What a win for @windiescricket!@MarlonSamuels7 finishes off the job, taking a third wicket to bowl India out for 240. Windies win by 43 runs! #INDvWI 3rd ODI REACTION ⬇️https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN pic.twitter.com/XnKx1lGRk4 — ICC (@ICC) October 27, 2018 × Earlier, batsman Shai Hope, who top-scored with 95, and bowler Ashley Nurse made crucial contributions as West Indies reached 283 for nine. Watch: MS Dhoni's superman-like catch to dismiss Chandrapaul Hemraj in 3rd ODI against West Indies Hope hit 6 fours and 3 sixes in his 113-ball knock to give West Indies a fighting total. Number-nine batsman Ashley Nurse also smashed a crucial 40 off 22 balls. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets to return impressive figures of 4-35. The fourth ODI is scheduled on Monday at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium.

IND vs WI, 3rd ODI: Despite Virat Kohli's century, West Indies beat India by 43 runs

Shai Hope and Ashley Nurse helped West Indies to set a fighting target of 283 runs for team India in the third ODI of the five-match series on Saturday.

Windies looked vulnerable after losing quick wickets but batsman Shai Hope, who top-scored with 95, and bowler Ashley Nurse made crucial contributions as West Indies reached 283 for nine.

Hope hit 6 fours and 3 sixes in his 113-ball knock to give West Indies a decent total. Number-nine batsman Ashley Nurse also smashed a crucial 40 off 22 balls.

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets to return impressive figures of 4-35.

Windies players Kieran Powell and Chandrapaul Hemraj started the innings as Virat Kohli put West Indies to bat first after winning the toss at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

India's yorker specialist Bumrah dismissed both the openers that led Windies in a pressure situation.

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India need 284 to win the third ODI of their series against <a href="https://twitter.com/windiescricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@windiescricket</a>. 
 
Can <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> score a third century in a row?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 3rd ODI live ⬇️ 
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Bumrah took the first wicket for his side in the fifth over and saw off Chandrapaul Hemraj at 15. Hemraj played with a strike rate of 75.00 and edged Bumrah's delivery but wicket-keeper MS Dhoni took a sensational catch at the fine leg.

After that Powell lost his wicket to Bumrah after edging in Rohit Sharma's safe hands in slips. Sharma took a difficult catch to dismiss Powell at 21.&nbsp;

Bumrah also dismissed Nurse in the 49th over.

Marlon Samuels lost his wicket after scoring nine runs to pacer Khaleel Ahmed.

Another spinner Kuldeep Yadav got prized wicket of Shimron Hetmyer, who had slammed a ton in the first ODI, at a score of 37. Yadav also dismissed Rovman Powell at four.

India lead the five-match series 1-0 after the second ODI ended in a tie.

Shai Hope and Ashley Nurse helped West Indies to set a fighting target of 283 runs for team India in the third ODI of the five-match series on Saturday. Windies looked vulnerable after losing quick wickets but batsman Shai Hope, who top-scored with 95, and bowler Ashley Nurse made crucial contributions as West Indies reached 283 for nine.

Shai Hope and Ashley Nurse helped West Indies to set a fighting target of 283 runs for team India in the third ODI of the five-match series on Saturday. Windies looked vulnerable after losing quick wickets but batsman Shai Hope, who top-scored with 95, and bowler Ashley Nurse made crucial contributions as West Indies reached 283 for nine. Hope hit 6 fours and 3 sixes in his 113-ball knock to give West Indies a decent total. Number-nine batsman Ashley Nurse also smashed a crucial 40 off 22 balls. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets to return impressive figures of 4-35. Windies players Kieran Powell and Chandrapaul Hemraj started the innings as Virat Kohli put West Indies to bat first after winning the toss at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. India's yorker specialist Bumrah dismissed both the openers that led Windies in a pressure situation. India need 284 to win the third ODI of their series against @windiescricket. Can @imVkohli score a third century in a row?#INDvWI 3rd ODI live ⬇️ https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN pic.twitter.com/XtxulHMAEr — ICC (@ICC) October 27, 2018 × Bumrah took the first wicket for his side in the fifth over and saw off Chandrapaul Hemraj at 15. Hemraj played with a strike rate of 75.00 and edged Bumrah's delivery but wicket-keeper MS Dhoni took a sensational catch at the fine leg. After that Powell lost his wicket to Bumrah after edging in Rohit Sharma's safe hands in slips. Sharma took a difficult catch to dismiss Powell at 21. Bumrah also dismissed Nurse in the 49th over. Marlon Samuels lost his wicket after scoring nine runs to pacer Khaleel Ahmed. Another spinner Kuldeep Yadav got prized wicket of Shimron Hetmyer, who had slammed a ton in the first ODI, at a score of 37. Yadav also dismissed Rovman Powell at four. India lead the five-match series 1-0 after the second ODI ended in a tie.

IND vs WI, 3rd ODI: India need 284 runs to win against West Indies

West Indies set 283-run target for team India&nbsp;in the third one-day of a five-match series&nbsp;on Saturday.&nbsp;

Batsman Shai Hope top-scored with 95 as West Indies reached 283 for nine in the third one-day international against India in Pune on Saturday.

Hope hit 6 fours and 3 sixes in his 113-ball knock to give West Indies a fighting total. Number-nine batsman Ashley Nurse also smashed a crucial 40 off 22 balls.

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets to return impressive figures of 4-35.

After Jason Holder departure as the sixth wicket, West Indies were in a vulnerable position.&nbsp;

Shai Hope, however, tried to push the run rate to put a decent target for team India but lost his wicket after scoring 95 runs. His innings included six fours and three sixes.

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An explosive end to the innings propels <a href="https://twitter.com/windiescricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@windiescricket</a> to 283/9 from their 50 overs. 
 
Shai Hope top-scored with 95 while Ashley Nurse smashed 40 off 22 balls. <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> took four wickets on his return to the team.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> 3rd ODI live ⬇️ 
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India have included pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar while Mohammed Shami has been dropped.

After winning the toss, skipper Kohli said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible."

"We will try to restrict Windies to a decent total and chase it down."

Windies's skipper Jason Holder said, "India are an excellent side and we have to perform well in all three departments to compete against them."

Devendra Bishoo has been dropped and Fabian Allen will make his debut.

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Fabian Allen makes his WINDIES ODI debut today. 
Devendra Bishoo is out. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WindiesCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WindiesCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ItsOurGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ItsOurGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/yYkPFn2dst">pic.twitter.com/yYkPFn2dst</a>
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India bring in Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah as they opt to field first in the third ODI. Fabian Allen makes his debut for the Windies.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> LIVE BLOG 👇<a href="https://t.co/zMzPdFJqOl">https://t.co/zMzPdFJqOl</a> <a href="https://t.co/4abi0oDIxZ">pic.twitter.com/4abi0oDIxZ</a>
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Playing XI:

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w), Rishabh Pant, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed, Yuzvendra Chahal.

West Indies: Kieran Powell, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope(w), Marlon Samuels, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder(c), Fabian Allen, Ashley Nurse, Kemar Roach, Obed McCoy. 
&nbsp;

West Indies set 283-run target for team India in the third one-day of a five-match series on Saturday. Batsman Shai Hope top-scored with 95 as West Indies reached 283 for nine in the third one-day international against India in Pune on Saturday.

West Indies set 283-run target for team India in the third one-day of a five-match series on Saturday. Batsman Shai Hope top-scored with 95 as West Indies reached 283 for nine in the third one-day international against India in Pune on Saturday. Hope hit 6 fours and 3 sixes in his 113-ball knock to give West Indies a fighting total. Number-nine batsman Ashley Nurse also smashed a crucial 40 off 22 balls. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets to return impressive figures of 4-35. After Jason Holder departure as the sixth wicket, West Indies were in a vulnerable position. Shai Hope, however, tried to push the run rate to put a decent target for team India but lost his wicket after scoring 95 runs. His innings included six fours and three sixes. An explosive end to the innings propels @windiescricket to 283/9 from their 50 overs. Shai Hope top-scored with 95 while Ashley Nurse smashed 40 off 22 balls. @Jaspritbumrah93 took four wickets on his return to the team.#INDvWI 3rd ODI live ⬇️ https://t.co/zMzPdFrPWN pic.twitter.com/7ro9HNYrw4 — ICC (@ICC) October 27, 2018 × India have included pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar while Mohammed Shami has been dropped. After winning the toss, skipper Kohli said, "We want the guys who will be part of the World Cup to play as much as possible." "We will try to restrict Windies to a decent total and chase it down." Windies's skipper Jason Holder said, "India are an excellent side and we have to perform well in all three departments to compete against them." Devendra Bishoo has been dropped and Fabian Allen will make his debut. Fabian Allen makes his WINDIES ODI debut today. Devendra Bishoo is out. #WindiesCricket #ItsOurGame pic.twitter.com/yYkPFn2dst — Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) October 27, 2018 × India bring in Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah as they opt to field first in the third ODI. Fabian Allen makes his debut for the Windies.#INDvWI LIVE BLOG 👇https://t.co/zMzPdFJqOl pic.twitter.com/4abi0oDIxZ — ICC (@ICC) October 27, 2018 × Playing XI: India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w), Rishabh Pant, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed, Yuzvendra Chahal. West Indies: Kieran Powell, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope(w), Marlon Samuels, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder(c), Fabian Allen, Ashley Nurse, Kemar Roach, Obed McCoy.

IND vs WI, 3rd ODI: West Indies are 283-9 after 50 overs

India's wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni took a stunning catch&nbsp;in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-3rd-odi-virat-kohli-opts-to-bowl-against-west-indies-173797">third one-day</a> of a five-match series between India and West Indies on Saturday.

The world cup winning captain displayed a sensational piece of fielding&nbsp;to dismiss Chandrapaul Hemraj at a score of 21.

Hemraj edged Jasprit Bumrah's fair delivery that went up high in the air and was about to land in front of&nbsp;fine leg where no fielder was present.

MS Dhoni ran towards it, made a full stretched dive and landed horizontally on the ground to take the stunning catch.

Though on-field umpire referred it to the third umpire to check whether the catch was clean or not.

But a&nbsp;red light on the big screen signalled&nbsp;that&nbsp;it is difficult to doubt Dhoni's fitness and fielding skills.

The crowd at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium applauded the superman-like catch&nbsp;with 'Dhoni, Dhoni' chants.

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Did you see superman Mahi take the catch?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> haters can go eat crow! 
😍💙🏏🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsWI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/IOt7UZ7w0E">pic.twitter.com/IOt7UZ7w0E</a>
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Dhoni what a catch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/3EX1QOhUOM">pic.twitter.com/3EX1QOhUOM</a>
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Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been dropped from India's Twenty20 squad for the home series against the West Indies and the crucial away assignment against Australia, signaling a possible end to his run in the shortest format.

The committee said that Dhoni, the 2007 World T20-winning skipper, has been "rested" and India is now looking to fill in the second wicketkeeper's slot.&nbsp;

But when asked if Dhoni's career in T20s is over, Prasad said, "Not yet".

"We want to try out other keepers for the second keeper's slot," said Prasad.

India's wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni took a stunning catch in the third one-day of a five-match series between India and West Indies on Saturday. The world cup winning captain displayed a sensational piece of fielding to dismiss Chandrapaul Hemraj at a score of 21.

India's wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni took a stunning catch in the third one-day of a five-match series between India and West Indies on Saturday. The world cup winning captain displayed a sensational piece of fielding to dismiss Chandrapaul Hemraj at a score of 21. Hemraj edged Jasprit Bumrah's fair delivery that went up high in the air and was about to land in front of fine leg where no fielder was present. MS Dhoni ran towards it, made a full stretched dive and landed horizontally on the ground to take the stunning catch. Though on-field umpire referred it to the third umpire to check whether the catch was clean or not. But a red light on the big screen signalled that it is difficult to doubt Dhoni's fitness and fielding skills. The crowd at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium applauded the superman-like catch with 'Dhoni, Dhoni' chants. Did you see superman Mahi take the catch?#Dhoni haters can go eat crow! 😍💙🏏🇮🇳#INDvsWI #MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/IOt7UZ7w0E — Arnaz Bisney (@ArnazBisney) October 27, 2018 × Dhoni what a catch #Dhoni pic.twitter.com/3EX1QOhUOM — Santoz (@s_a_n_t_o_z) October 27, 2018 × Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been dropped from India's Twenty20 squad for the home series against the West Indies and the crucial away assignment against Australia, signaling a possible end to his run in the shortest format. The committee said that Dhoni, the 2007 World T20-winning skipper, has been "rested" and India is now looking to fill in the second wicketkeeper's slot. But when asked if Dhoni's career in T20s is over, Prasad said, "Not yet". "We want to try out other keepers for the second keeper's slot," said Prasad.

Watch: MS Dhoni's superman-like catch to dismiss Chandrapaul Hemraj in 3rd ODI against West Indies

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday named the 12-member Indian squad for the second One-Day International (ODI) against the West Indies.

The cricket board decided to keep the team unchanged for the match that will take place in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday.&nbsp;

India is expected to enter the pitch with three fast bowlers, meaning it will again keep spinner Kuldeep Yadav out of the playing XI.&nbsp;

However, Yadav might get a chance keeping in mind Mohammed Shami's expensive figures, where he gave away 81 runs in his ten overs.&nbsp;

Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Khaleel Ahmed were also expensive.

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Team India for 2nd ODI, Visakhapatnam - Virat Kohli (C), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu, Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Khaleel Ahmed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a>
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In the first ODI, India beat Windies by a convincing eight-wicket margin, chasing down a 323-run target.&nbsp;

Both opener Rohit Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli scored centuries.&nbsp;

Sharma had notched up his 20th and Kohli his 36th. Rishabh Pant, who made his ODI debut in Guwahati, didn't get a chance to walk out to bat.

The five-match ODI series, which ends November 1, will be followed by a three-match T20I series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday named the 12-member Indian squad for the second One-Day International (ODI) against the West Indies. The cricket board decided to keep the team unchanged for the match that will take place in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday named the 12-member Indian squad for the second One-Day International (ODI) against the West Indies. The cricket board decided to keep the team unchanged for the match that will take place in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. India is expected to enter the pitch with three fast bowlers, meaning it will again keep spinner Kuldeep Yadav out of the playing XI. However, Yadav might get a chance keeping in mind Mohammed Shami's expensive figures, where he gave away 81 runs in his ten overs. Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Khaleel Ahmed were also expensive. Team India for 2nd ODI, Visakhapatnam - Virat Kohli (C), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu, Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Khaleel Ahmed #TeamIndia #INDvWI — BCCI (@BCCI) October 23, 2018 × In the first ODI, India beat Windies by a convincing eight-wicket margin, chasing down a 323-run target. Both opener Rohit Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli scored centuries. Sharma had notched up his 20th and Kohli his 36th. Rishabh Pant, who made his ODI debut in Guwahati, didn't get a chance to walk out to bat. The five-match ODI series, which ends November 1, will be followed by a three-match T20I series.

India vs West Indies: BCCI names unchanged 12-member squad for 2nd ODI

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Sunday backed struggling Mahendra Singh Dhoni to do well in the World Cup and said the ongoing series against West Indies would be crucial for the veteran stumper looking forward to next year's showpiece event.&nbsp;

A colossus in ODI cricket, of late Dhoni is struggling with his batting and his scores have dwindled in the last few years.&nbsp;

Starting with the five-match ODI series against West Indies here, India have 18-odd matches left for the World Cup and the think-tank has brought in dashing Delhi wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant in the mix to spice up the scenario.&nbsp;

"I don't know what combination they are thinking at. But I'm sure he (Dhoni) will do well in the World Cup. It's (against West Indies) big series for him," Ganguly told PTI at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium while watching the ODI with Assam governor Jagdish Mukhi.&nbsp;

In the Asia Cup, Dhoni batted four times, scoring 77 runs with an average of 19.25 and a strike rate of 62.09.&nbsp;

Overall in 2018, he has batted 10 times in 15 matches, for an average of 28.12 and a strike rate of 67.36.&nbsp;

Dhoni has an unimpressive record in the seaming conditions of England where he is yet to score a century from 20 ODIs, and averages 38.06, a sharp drop from his career average of 50.61.&nbsp;

"His overall record is very good," Ganguly pointed out.&nbsp;

"It all depends how the players perform going ahead to the World Cup. It's about scoring runs. That's why Pant has been given a chance," he added.&nbsp;

All 10 teams will play each other in a round-robin format, with the top four qualifying for the semi-finals in the next year's World Cup beginning with England versus South Africa at the Oval on May 30.&nbsp;

"India are a good ODI side. This World Cup will be worth watching. All teams play all and the best four go. It will be a competitive one," Ganguly said.&nbsp;

Hosting its first ODI, the Assam Cricket Association invited Ganguly as the guest of honour and was felicitated with traditional Assamese gamcha (towel) and xorai, an offering pot with a stand at the bottom, a decorative symbol of Assam used for offering tamul pan (betel nut and leaves).&nbsp;

Ganguly also launched ACA's souvenir.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Sunday backed struggling Mahendra Singh Dhoni to do well in the World Cup and said the ongoing series against West Indies would be crucial for the veteran stumper looking forward to next year's showpiece event.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Sunday backed struggling Mahendra Singh Dhoni to do well in the World Cup and said the ongoing series against West Indies would be crucial for the veteran stumper looking forward to next year's showpiece event. A colossus in ODI cricket, of late Dhoni is struggling with his batting and his scores have dwindled in the last few years. Starting with the five-match ODI series against West Indies here, India have 18-odd matches left for the World Cup and the think-tank has brought in dashing Delhi wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant in the mix to spice up the scenario. "I don't know what combination they are thinking at. But I'm sure he (Dhoni) will do well in the World Cup. It's (against West Indies) big series for him," Ganguly told PTI at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium while watching the ODI with Assam governor Jagdish Mukhi. In the Asia Cup, Dhoni batted four times, scoring 77 runs with an average of 19.25 and a strike rate of 62.09. Overall in 2018, he has batted 10 times in 15 matches, for an average of 28.12 and a strike rate of 67.36. Dhoni has an unimpressive record in the seaming conditions of England where he is yet to score a century from 20 ODIs, and averages 38.06, a sharp drop from his career average of 50.61. "His overall record is very good," Ganguly pointed out. "It all depends how the players perform going ahead to the World Cup. It's about scoring runs. That's why Pant has been given a chance," he added. All 10 teams will play each other in a round-robin format, with the top four qualifying for the semi-finals in the next year's World Cup beginning with England versus South Africa at the Oval on May 30. "India are a good ODI side. This World Cup will be worth watching. All teams play all and the best four go. It will be a competitive one," Ganguly said. Hosting its first ODI, the Assam Cricket Association invited Ganguly as the guest of honour and was felicitated with traditional Assamese gamcha (towel) and xorai, an offering pot with a stand at the bottom, a decorative symbol of Assam used for offering tamul pan (betel nut and leaves). Ganguly also launched ACA's souvenir.

Ongoing series against Windies will be crucial for Dhoni: Sourav Ganguly

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma while addressing the media after India's comfortable <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-odi-ton-up-rohit-kohli-give-india-8-wicket-win-over-windies-172676">eight-wicket win</a> against West Indies in the first one-day match on Sunday.

Jadeja went gaga over both the batsmen who shared a massive 246-run partnership for the second wicket.

The left-arm spinner said that is very difficult to dismiss Virat and Rohit when they are batting in full flow.

"If they are set, it's tough to get them out. They can hit groundstrokes and in the air with equal ease. It becomes tough against such batters," said Jadeja.

"They played proper cricketing shots. They did not take any chances, they were just playing according the situation."

Virat completed his 36th ODI century and<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-breaks-tendulkar-record-becomes-fastest-cricketer-to-score-60-tons-172687"> broke cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's record</a> by becoming the faster cricketer to score 60 international hundreds.

Rohit too played magnificently and slammed an unbeaten ton to inspire India towards victory.

"Wicket was also very good to bat on. It was not spinning or swinging much. The ball was coming nicely to bat. It was an ideal condition for the batsmen," Jadeja added.

"After they scored 320-plus, we did not know how it will behave in the second half. But after the start we got following (Shikhar) Dhawan's wicket we thought we could chase it down. Overall it stayed true through out the game," he said.&nbsp;

Jadeja said India decided against fielding three spinners because of the uncertainty factor of the wicket. 
&nbsp; 
"We didn't know how the wicket would behave, this being the first ODI here. We thought three seamers will help to contain the batsmen in the powerplay," he said.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma while addressing the media after India's comfortable eight-wicket win against West Indies in the first one-day match on Sunday.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma while addressing the media after India's comfortable eight-wicket win against West Indies in the first one-day match on Sunday. Jadeja went gaga over both the batsmen who shared a massive 246-run partnership for the second wicket. The left-arm spinner said that is very difficult to dismiss Virat and Rohit when they are batting in full flow. "If they are set, it's tough to get them out. They can hit groundstrokes and in the air with equal ease. It becomes tough against such batters," said Jadeja. "They played proper cricketing shots. They did not take any chances, they were just playing according the situation." Virat completed his 36th ODI century and broke cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's record by becoming the faster cricketer to score 60 international hundreds. Rohit too played magnificently and slammed an unbeaten ton to inspire India towards victory. "Wicket was also very good to bat on. It was not spinning or swinging much. The ball was coming nicely to bat. It was an ideal condition for the batsmen," Jadeja added. "After they scored 320-plus, we did not know how it will behave in the second half. But after the start we got following (Shikhar) Dhawan's wicket we thought we could chase it down. Overall it stayed true through out the game," he said. Jadeja said India decided against fielding three spinners because of the uncertainty factor of the wicket. "We didn't know how the wicket would behave, this being the first ODI here. We thought three seamers will help to contain the batsmen in the powerplay," he said.

It's 'tough' to dismiss Virat and Rohit when they are set: Ravindra Jadeja

Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 152 and skipper Virat Kohli's 140 helped India chase down the mammoth target of 323 runs set them by the West Indies.

Sharma slammed a six on the first ball of the 43rd over to reach his 150 and also give India an 8-wicket victory in the first ODI on Sunday.

After India lost Shikhar Dhawan early, both Kohli and Sharma had put on a 246-run stand for the second wicket to put 'Men In Blue' in a commanding position.

The two were on the way of breaking several partnership records but unfortunately, Kohli departed by a brilliant lbw off wicketkeeper Shai Hope off Devendra Bishoo.

But, Sharma continued to lead the team and play a perfect match-winning knock, stocked with &nbsp;15 boundaries and eight sixes in 117-ball inning.

Kohli, on the other hand, played 107 balls and hit 21 boundaries and two sixes.

Despite setting a huge target and getting an early break, the Jason Holder's side failed to perform with the ball.&nbsp;

Oshane Thomas, who took Dhawan's wicket, turned out to be the most expensive bowler. At an economy of 9.22, Thomas gave 83 runs in his nine overs.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Bishoo, who dismissed Kohli, was the second most expensive bowler with 73 runs in 10 overs bowled.&nbsp;

No other bowler was even able to understand the Indian batsmen strategy and were routed by Rohit and Kohli.&nbsp;

For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring his side back into contention against the 'Men in Blue'. 
&nbsp; 
After being reduced at one time to 86 for the loss of three wickets, Hetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

He had put up a half-century stand with skipper Jason Holder for the sixth wicket and played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes.&nbsp;

Holder contributed 38 runs, including five boundaries, before being clean bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal.&nbsp;

India, who won the recently concluded Test series, now lead 1-0 in the five-match ODI series.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 152 and skipper Virat Kohli's 140 helped India chase down the mammoth target of 323 runs set them by the West Indies. Sharma slammed a six on the first ball of the 43rd over to reach his 150 and also give India an 8-wicket victory in the first ODI on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 152 and skipper Virat Kohli's 140 helped India chase down the mammoth target of 323 runs set them by the West Indies. Sharma slammed a six on the first ball of the 43rd over to reach his 150 and also give India an 8-wicket victory in the first ODI on Sunday. After India lost Shikhar Dhawan early, both Kohli and Sharma had put on a 246-run stand for the second wicket to put 'Men In Blue' in a commanding position. The two were on the way of breaking several partnership records but unfortunately, Kohli departed by a brilliant lbw off wicketkeeper Shai Hope off Devendra Bishoo. But, Sharma continued to lead the team and play a perfect match-winning knock, stocked with 15 boundaries and eight sixes in 117-ball inning. Kohli, on the other hand, played 107 balls and hit 21 boundaries and two sixes. Despite setting a huge target and getting an early break, the Jason Holder's side failed to perform with the ball. Oshane Thomas, who took Dhawan's wicket, turned out to be the most expensive bowler. At an economy of 9.22, Thomas gave 83 runs in his nine overs. Bishoo, who dismissed Kohli, was the second most expensive bowler with 73 runs in 10 overs bowled. No other bowler was even able to understand the Indian batsmen strategy and were routed by Rohit and Kohli. For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring his side back into contention against the 'Men in Blue'. After being reduced at one time to 86 for the loss of three wickets, Hetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant. He had put up a half-century stand with skipper Jason Holder for the sixth wicket and played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes. Holder contributed 38 runs, including five boundaries, before being clean bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal. India, who won the recently concluded Test series, now lead 1-0 in the five-match ODI series.

1st ODI: India beat Windies by 8 wickets after tons from Rohit, Virat

Virat Kohli will look to solve the middle order problem ahead of ICC World Cup 2019 that team India has been facing from quite sometime.

Kohli said if batsman Ambati Rayudu cements his place at the crucial number four then the middle order problem will be solved.

"The only position we were trying to figure out was number four for a long time. We tried many players who unfortunately could not capitalise or cement their places in a way we wanted," Kohli said ahead of the first one-dayer against the West Indies.

"With Rayudu coming in and playing well in the Asia Cup, it's about giving him enough game time till the World Cup so that the particular slot will be sorted for us," he added.&nbsp;

"The team felt there -&nbsp;and I also watched him - that he (Rayudu) is designed to play that middle order batsman's role. We feel that our middle-order is more or less balanced now," Kohli said.

Rayudu impressed the selectors during Indian Premier League 2018 where he scored a total of 602 runs at an average of 43.00 and a strike-rate of 149.75.

After his spectacular performance during the IPL, he had earned a national call-up for the ODI series for the England tour but was dropped after failing the 'Yo-Yo' test.

But in the absence of captain Kohli in the recently concluded Asia Cup, Rayudu amassed 175 runs, averaging 43.75 from six innings.

"We believe he is the right person to capitalise on that spot. He is experienced and has won many games for his state and also in the IPL. He has a great ODI record already for India. I think the batting order is sorted."&nbsp;

India will play around 18-odd ODIs before the World Cup, including the five-match series against the West Indies.

"Now these 18 games would be to find the perfect combination that we want to take into the World Cup," Kohli said.

&nbsp;"Barring injuries or niggles, we want one combination to play through and through. Apart from bowlers resting here and there in the ODIs, we only changed the No. 4 slot because we wanted someone to cement the place," Kohli reasoned.&nbsp;

Kohli talked about the importance of a depth in the batting order. He said, "Batting order is always ready, especially after four. The guys below four are always flexible in terms of the situation. You want the best thing for the team. Being flexible is very important."&nbsp;

"There's no rocket science to it. In T20 cricket, you do that all the time. You are flexible in what you want to do as a batting order.

Virat Kohli will look to solve the middle order problem ahead of ICC World Cup 2019 that team India has been facing from quite sometime. Kohli said if batsman Ambati Rayudu cements his place at the crucial number four then the middle order problem will be solved.

Virat Kohli will look to solve the middle order problem ahead of ICC World Cup 2019 that team India has been facing from quite sometime. Kohli said if batsman Ambati Rayudu cements his place at the crucial number four then the middle order problem will be solved. "The only position we were trying to figure out was number four for a long time. We tried many players who unfortunately could not capitalise or cement their places in a way we wanted," Kohli said ahead of the first one-dayer against the West Indies. "With Rayudu coming in and playing well in the Asia Cup, it's about giving him enough game time till the World Cup so that the particular slot will be sorted for us," he added. "The team felt there - and I also watched him - that he (Rayudu) is designed to play that middle order batsman's role. We feel that our middle-order is more or less balanced now," Kohli said. Rayudu impressed the selectors during Indian Premier League 2018 where he scored a total of 602 runs at an average of 43.00 and a strike-rate of 149.75. After his spectacular performance during the IPL, he had earned a national call-up for the ODI series for the England tour but was dropped after failing the 'Yo-Yo' test. But in the absence of captain Kohli in the recently concluded Asia Cup, Rayudu amassed 175 runs, averaging 43.75 from six innings. "We believe he is the right person to capitalise on that spot. He is experienced and has won many games for his state and also in the IPL. He has a great ODI record already for India. I think the batting order is sorted." India will play around 18-odd ODIs before the World Cup, including the five-match series against the West Indies. "Now these 18 games would be to find the perfect combination that we want to take into the World Cup," Kohli said. "Barring injuries or niggles, we want one combination to play through and through. Apart from bowlers resting here and there in the ODIs, we only changed the No. 4 slot because we wanted someone to cement the place," Kohli reasoned. Kohli talked about the importance of a depth in the batting order. He said, "Batting order is always ready, especially after four. The guys below four are always flexible in terms of the situation. You want the best thing for the team. Being flexible is very important." "There's no rocket science to it. In T20 cricket, you do that all the time. You are flexible in what you want to do as a batting order.

Virat Kohli looking to solve India's middle order puzzle with Ambati Rayudu

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and rose to the occasion and slammed a century while chasing a mammoth target of 323 runs set by West Indies in the first ODI on Sunday.

Kohli along with opener Rohit Sharma, who also reached his century established a 246-run stand.&nbsp; The two&nbsp;kept India's scorecard ticking after Shikhar Dhawan fell early for just four runs.

However, Kohli was stumped off&nbsp;Bishoo at 140. His 107-ball inning included 21 boundaries and two sixes. Meanwhile, Rohit is going strong and is playing ta a strike rate of 122.&nbsp;

Kohli, who played at a strike rate 126, reached the 50-digit mark in just 35 balls. India are&nbsp;198 for the loss of one wicket after 28 overs.&nbsp;

For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring his side back into contention against the 'Men in Blue'. 
&nbsp; 
Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets. &nbsp;

It was then that Hetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

He had put up a half-century stand with skipper Jason Holder for the sixth wicket and played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes.&nbsp;

Holder contributed 38 runs, including five boundaries, before being clean bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and rose to the occasion and slammed a century while chasing a mammoth target of 323 runs set by West Indies in the first ODI on Sunday.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and rose to the occasion and slammed a century while chasing a mammoth target of 323 runs set by West Indies in the first ODI on Sunday. Kohli along with opener Rohit Sharma, who also reached his century established a 246-run stand. The two kept India's scorecard ticking after Shikhar Dhawan fell early for just four runs. However, Kohli was stumped off Bishoo at 140. His 107-ball inning included 21 boundaries and two sixes. Meanwhile, Rohit is going strong and is playing ta a strike rate of 122. Kohli, who played at a strike rate 126, reached the 50-digit mark in just 35 balls. India are 198 for the loss of one wicket after 28 overs. For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring his side back into contention against the 'Men in Blue'. Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets. It was then that Hetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant. He had put up a half-century stand with skipper Jason Holder for the sixth wicket and played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes. Holder contributed 38 runs, including five boundaries, before being clean bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal.

1st ODI: Kohli falls after hitting ton, Rohit hits ton as India chase down Windies' 323

Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring the West Indies back into contention and post a target of 323 runs for India in the 1st ODI at &nbsp;Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati on Sunday. &nbsp;

Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets. &nbsp;

It was then that Hetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

He had put up a half-century stand with skipper Jason Holder for the sixth wicket and played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes.&nbsp;

Holder contributed 38 runs, including five boundaries, before being clean bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal.&nbsp;

Chahal clinched a total of three wickets in his 10 overs spell, followed by Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja, who took two wickets each.&nbsp;

K Khaleel Ahmed also took an important wicket of Kieran Powell.

A perfect cameo of Devendra Bishoo and Kemar Roach took the team past 300. The two remained unbeaten as the Windies inning ended with only eight wickets down after 50 overs.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli had earlier won the toss and chosen to bat against the West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati today.

Rishabh Pant got his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games. In the previous two months, Pant has played some impressive innings which why he has been given this chance.

"Our batting order is settled as (Ambati) Rayudu has taken the number four spot. We don't need to ponder much," said Kohli.

"We have three fast bowlers. (Yuzvendra) Chahal, the wrist spinner and (Ravindra) Jadeja to give us balance."

The hosts won the recently concluded two-match Test series.

Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring the West Indies back into contention and post a target of 323 runs for India in the 1st ODI at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati on Sunday.

Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring the West Indies back into contention and post a target of 323 runs for India in the 1st ODI at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati on Sunday. Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets. It was then that Hetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant. He had put up a half-century stand with skipper Jason Holder for the sixth wicket and played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes. Holder contributed 38 runs, including five boundaries, before being clean bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal. Chahal clinched a total of three wickets in his 10 overs spell, followed by Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja, who took two wickets each. K Khaleel Ahmed also took an important wicket of Kieran Powell. A perfect cameo of Devendra Bishoo and Kemar Roach took the team past 300. The two remained unbeaten as the Windies inning ended with only eight wickets down after 50 overs. Virat Kohli had earlier won the toss and chosen to bat against the West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati today. Rishabh Pant got his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games. In the previous two months, Pant has played some impressive innings which why he has been given this chance. "Our batting order is settled as (Ambati) Rayudu has taken the number four spot. We don't need to ponder much," said Kohli. "We have three fast bowlers. (Yuzvendra) Chahal, the wrist spinner and (Ravindra) Jadeja to give us balance." The hosts won the recently concluded two-match Test series.

1st ODI: Shimron Hetmyer ton powers Windies to massive 322 against India

Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring the West Indies back into contention against India in the 1st ODI. Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It was then that nHetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

Hetmyar played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli had earlier won the toss and chosen to bat against the West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati today.

Rishabh Pant got his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games.&nbsp;In the previous two months, Pant has played some impressive innings which why he has been given this chance.

"Our batting order is settled as (Ambati) Rayudu has taken the number four spot. We don't need to ponder much," said Kohli.

"We have three fast bowlers. (Yuzvendra) Chahal, the wrist spinner and (Ravindra) Jadeja to give us balance."

The hosts won the recently concluded two-match Test series.

Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring the West Indies back into contention against India in the 1st ODI. Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets.

Shimron Hetmyer slammed a century to bring the West Indies back into contention against India in the 1st ODI. Put in to bat, the Windies were at one time reduced to 86 for the loss of three wickets. It was then that nHetmyar took the driver's seat and slammed a 78-ball 106, before giving away his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja trying to hit a six. He was caught by Rishabh Pant. Hetmyar played at a strike rate of 135.90, hitting six boundaries and six sixes. Virat Kohli had earlier won the toss and chosen to bat against the West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati today. Rishabh Pant got his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games. In the previous two months, Pant has played some impressive innings which why he has been given this chance. "Our batting order is settled as (Ambati) Rayudu has taken the number four spot. We don't need to ponder much," said Kohli. "We have three fast bowlers. (Yuzvendra) Chahal, the wrist spinner and (Ravindra) Jadeja to give us balance." The hosts won the recently concluded two-match Test series.

1st ODI: Shimron Hetmyer ton hauls Windies back into contention against India

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against&nbsp;West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati on Sunday.

Rishabh Pant his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games.&nbsp;In the previous two months, Pant has played some impressive innings which why he has been given this chance.

The hosts won the recently concluded two-match Test series.

"Our batting order is settled as (Ambati) Rayudu has taken the number four spot. We don't need to ponder much," said Kohli.

"We have three fast bowlers. (Yuzvendra) Chahal, the wrist spinner and (Ravindra) Jadeja to give us balance."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-looking-to-solve-indias-middle-order-puzzle-with-rayudu-172560">Virat Kohli looking to solve India's middle order puzzle with Ambati Rayudu</a>

The West Indies handed international debuts to left-handed batsman Chandrapaul Hemraj and 21-year-old fast bowler Oshane Thomas.

"I won't mind batting first on this pitch," said captain Jason Holder. "We are a young side and this is an opportunity for the youngsters to make their mark."

"An opportunity for them to showcase what they've got" - Holder backed the 'unfamiliar' faces against India earlier.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> win the toss and elect to bowl first against the Windies in the 1st ODI at Guwahati.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/9V6fzPMSLB">pic.twitter.com/9V6fzPMSLB</a>
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Playing XI:

India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Khaleel Ahmed, Yuzvendra Chahal

West Indies: Jason Holder (captain), Kieran Powell, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Marlon Samuels, Rovman Powell, Ashley Nurse, Devendra Bishoo, Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati on Sunday. Rishabh Pant his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games.

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against West Indies in the first of the five one-day internationals in Guwahati on Sunday. Rishabh Pant his 50-over debut after a strong performance in the five-day games. In the previous two months, Pant has played some impressive innings which why he has been given this chance. The hosts won the recently concluded two-match Test series. "Our batting order is settled as (Ambati) Rayudu has taken the number four spot. We don't need to ponder much," said Kohli. "We have three fast bowlers. (Yuzvendra) Chahal, the wrist spinner and (Ravindra) Jadeja to give us balance." Virat Kohli looking to solve India's middle order puzzle with Ambati Rayudu The West Indies handed international debuts to left-handed batsman Chandrapaul Hemraj and 21-year-old fast bowler Oshane Thomas. "I won't mind batting first on this pitch," said captain Jason Holder. "We are a young side and this is an opportunity for the youngsters to make their mark." "An opportunity for them to showcase what they've got" - Holder backed the 'unfamiliar' faces against India earlier. #TeamIndia win the toss and elect to bowl first against the Windies in the 1st ODI at Guwahati.@Paytm #INDvWI pic.twitter.com/9V6fzPMSLB — BCCI (@BCCI) October 21, 2018 × Playing XI: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Khaleel Ahmed, Yuzvendra Chahal West Indies: Jason Holder (captain), Kieran Powell, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Marlon Samuels, Rovman Powell, Ashley Nurse, Devendra Bishoo, Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas

Ind vs WI, 1st ODI: India win toss, choose to bowl against West Indies

Thunder, lightning and torrential rain halted England on their Sri Lanka tour Saturday, but they wrapped up the one-day series against their hosts with a faster run rate.

After Dasun Shanaka hit a boundary-smattered 66 to help Sri Lanka make 273-7 from their 50 overs, Jason Roy made 45 and England pair Joe Root and captain Eoin Morgan were just shifting up a gear in the chase when dark clouds gathered over Kandy.

With England on 132-2 from 27 overs, Root (32) and Morgan (31) seemed well placed to put their side on the route to victory. They already led the series 2-0 going into the fourth of the five games.

As with the other wins, the decision came with the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern run rate system,and England were awarded victory by 18 runs.&nbsp;Every game in the series has now been halted or interrupted by rain.

While frustrated, Morgan will be satisfied with the show from his team in difficult circumstances.

Roy closed in on a half century which included a six and five fours when an Akila Dananjaya leg spin hit his pad as he came down the wicket. The umpire did not give him out -- but Sri Lanka demanded a review, which proved their shouting was justified.

Morgan himself was shunting ahead with a six and three fours in 34 balls when the deluge started.

Earlier, Shanaka led another starring role for Sri Lanka's middle order after England won the toss and made the home side bat at the Pallekele stadium.

Opener Niroshan Dickwella's 52 was the only resistance shown by Sri Lanka's leading batsmen.

Shanaka made five sixes and four fours in his highest 50-over score, which kept Sri Lanka in a game they had to win to hold out any hope of avoiding another series defeat.

Moeen Ali was England's most effective bowler, taking two for 55 as the tourists used a mixture of spin and pace to maintain pressure.

Dickwella steadied the Sri Lanka innings, putting on 60 for the second wicket, with captain Dinesh Chandimal (30) after Sadeera Samaawickrama fell for one.

Thisara Perera (44) and Dananjaya (32 not out) put on 56 for the seventh wicket to give a late boost to the score.

The final one-day game is in Colombo on Tuesday while the two play a 20 over challenge next Saturday. They will play three Tests in November.

Thunder, lightning and torrential rain halted England on their Sri Lanka tour Saturday, but they wrapped up the one-day series against their hosts with a faster run rate.

Thunder, lightning and torrential rain halted England on their Sri Lanka tour Saturday, but they wrapped up the one-day series against their hosts with a faster run rate. After Dasun Shanaka hit a boundary-smattered 66 to help Sri Lanka make 273-7 from their 50 overs, Jason Roy made 45 and England pair Joe Root and captain Eoin Morgan were just shifting up a gear in the chase when dark clouds gathered over Kandy. With England on 132-2 from 27 overs, Root (32) and Morgan (31) seemed well placed to put their side on the route to victory. They already led the series 2-0 going into the fourth of the five games. As with the other wins, the decision came with the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern run rate system,and England were awarded victory by 18 runs. Every game in the series has now been halted or interrupted by rain. While frustrated, Morgan will be satisfied with the show from his team in difficult circumstances. Roy closed in on a half century which included a six and five fours when an Akila Dananjaya leg spin hit his pad as he came down the wicket. The umpire did not give him out -- but Sri Lanka demanded a review, which proved their shouting was justified. Morgan himself was shunting ahead with a six and three fours in 34 balls when the deluge started. Earlier, Shanaka led another starring role for Sri Lanka's middle order after England won the toss and made the home side bat at the Pallekele stadium. Opener Niroshan Dickwella's 52 was the only resistance shown by Sri Lanka's leading batsmen. Shanaka made five sixes and four fours in his highest 50-over score, which kept Sri Lanka in a game they had to win to hold out any hope of avoiding another series defeat. Moeen Ali was England's most effective bowler, taking two for 55 as the tourists used a mixture of spin and pace to maintain pressure. Dickwella steadied the Sri Lanka innings, putting on 60 for the second wicket, with captain Dinesh Chandimal (30) after Sadeera Samaawickrama fell for one. Thisara Perera (44) and Dananjaya (32 not out) put on 56 for the seventh wicket to give a late boost to the score. The final one-day game is in Colombo on Tuesday while the two play a 20 over challenge next Saturday. They will play three Tests in November.

Eng vs SL: England defeat Sri Lanka in a rain-hit match, seal series

England beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets to win a rain-affected third ODI and take a 2-0 series lead with two games left.

Due to a six-hour rain delay, the match was reduced to 21 overs per side.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka slipped from 57-0 to make 150-9, with Adil Rashid taking 4-36 and Tom Curran 3-17 in Pallekele.

Captain Eoin Morgan remained 58 not out and Jason Roy made 41 as England comfortably chased down the target with 15 balls remaining.

Opener Roy had got the innings off to a quick start with his 26-ball knock after Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root fell early.

Ben Stokes also remained unbeaten on 35 to help England to victory alongside Morgan.

England can seal the series if they beat Sri Lanka in fourth ODI also on Saturday.&nbsp;

England beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets to win a rain-affected third ODI and take a 2-0 series lead with two games left. Due to a six-hour rain delay, the match was reduced to 21 overs per side.

England beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets to win a rain-affected third ODI and take a 2-0 series lead with two games left. Due to a six-hour rain delay, the match was reduced to 21 overs per side. Sri Lanka slipped from 57-0 to make 150-9, with Adil Rashid taking 4-36 and Tom Curran 3-17 in Pallekele. Captain Eoin Morgan remained 58 not out and Jason Roy made 41 as England comfortably chased down the target with 15 balls remaining. Opener Roy had got the innings off to a quick start with his 26-ball knock after Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root fell early. Ben Stokes also remained unbeaten on 35 to help England to victory alongside Morgan. England can seal the series if they beat Sri Lanka in fourth ODI also on Saturday.

England beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets in rain-hit third ODI

England spinner Liam Dawson suffered a side strain and was ruled out of the remainder of England's one-day international tour of Sri Lanka.

Dawson picked up the injury in the second ODI, which England won, on Saturday.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old spinner bowled six overs and clinched a wicket and is likely to be out of action for a month.

All-rounder Joe Denly, who is in England's squad for the Test series against Sri Lanka next month, has been called up as Dawson's replacement.

Denly, 32, played the last of his nine previous ODIs in 2009 and will join the squad on Wednesday.

The tourists are 1-0 up in the five-match series, with the next game on Wednesday in Kandy.

England spinner Liam Dawson suffered a side strain and was ruled out of the remainder of England's one-day international tour of Sri Lanka. Dawson picked up the injury in the second ODI, which England won, on Saturday.

England spinner Liam Dawson suffered a side strain and was ruled out of the remainder of England's one-day international tour of Sri Lanka. Dawson picked up the injury in the second ODI, which England won, on Saturday. The 28-year-old spinner bowled six overs and clinched a wicket and is likely to be out of action for a month. All-rounder Joe Denly, who is in England's squad for the Test series against Sri Lanka next month, has been called up as Dawson's replacement. Denly, 32, played the last of his nine previous ODIs in 2009 and will join the squad on Wednesday. The tourists are 1-0 up in the five-match series, with the next game on Wednesday in Kandy.

Sri Lanka v England: Liam Dawson ruled out of remainder of tour with injury

West Indies' run machine Chris Gayle is a big omission from the West Indies squad for T20I series against India. Meanwhile, Darren Bravo and all-rounder Kieron Pollard were welcomed to the limited-overs squad.

Cricket West Indies said that Chris Gayle has decided to skip their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pollard-and-darren-bravo-back-for-west-indies-gayle-unavailable-170183">series in India and Bangladesh</a>.

"We will be without our stalwart, Chris Gayle, for this Indian tour and the next tour against Bangladesh as he has declined selection at this time..." Courtney Browne, chairman of the selection panel, said in a statement late on Sunday.

The 39-year-old Gayle has declined the selection because currently he is busy with the Afghanistan Premier League and will subsequently feature in the T10 league, also in the United Arab Emirates.

"... however, he has made himself available for the selection for the visit of England to the Caribbean and the CWC (Cricket World Cup) in 2019," Browne added.

ODI squad: Jason Holder (captain), Fabian Allen, Sunil Ambris, Devendra Bishoo, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, Keemo Paul, Rovman Powell, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Oshane Thomas

T20 squad: Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Fabian Allen, Darren Bravo, Shimron Hetmyer, Evin Lewis, Obed McCoy, Ashley Nurse, Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Kieron Pollard, Rovman Powell, Denesh Ramdin, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Oshane Thomas

West Indies' run machine Chris Gayle is a big omission from the West Indies squad for T20I series against India. Meanwhile, Darren Bravo and all-rounder Kieron Pollard were welcomed to the limited-overs squad.

West Indies' run machine Chris Gayle is a big omission from the West Indies squad for T20I series against India. Meanwhile, Darren Bravo and all-rounder Kieron Pollard were welcomed to the limited-overs squad. Cricket West Indies said that Chris Gayle has decided to skip their series in India and Bangladesh. "We will be without our stalwart, Chris Gayle, for this Indian tour and the next tour against Bangladesh as he has declined selection at this time..." Courtney Browne, chairman of the selection panel, said in a statement late on Sunday. The 39-year-old Gayle has declined the selection because currently he is busy with the Afghanistan Premier League and will subsequently feature in the T10 league, also in the United Arab Emirates. "... however, he has made himself available for the selection for the visit of England to the Caribbean and the CWC (Cricket World Cup) in 2019," Browne added. ODI squad: Jason Holder (captain), Fabian Allen, Sunil Ambris, Devendra Bishoo, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, Keemo Paul, Rovman Powell, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Oshane Thomas T20 squad: Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Fabian Allen, Darren Bravo, Shimron Hetmyer, Evin Lewis, Obed McCoy, Ashley Nurse, Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Kieron Pollard, Rovman Powell, Denesh Ramdin, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Oshane Thomas

Here is why Chris Gayle declined selection for India series

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has become a vital cog in the wheel for whichever team he plays, and the India and Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer says experience and superior fitness have made him an improved bowler.

Bhuvneshwar, who made his ODI and T20 debut in 2012, has so far grabbed 90 wickets in 86 ODIs and 28 wickets in 26 T20s and has become the go-to man for skipper Virat Kohli.

"The big change is experience, learning the things. At any stage, initially, you don't know much about those places or that environment, so (when) you keep playing you get to know, what the things are like there. Nothing is easy. So, yes experience - which I have gained over the last two-three years - really improved me as a bowler," the 28-year-old Meerut born player told PTI.

"And the other thing is fitness, the foremost thing which can keep you going for so many years," he said.

Asked whether he got any tips or advice from anybody, he said, "No, nothing, no special thing. I have been working in general, the way you do - match practise, fitness drills and individual skill - there is nothing special."

The swing bowler said there was "commitment to improve my fitness and improve as a bowler".

Bhuvneshwar, who is at ease bowling at the start and even in the death overs in white ball cricket, says that bowling at any point in T20 format is difficult.

"It is difficult to bowl any over, doesn't (matter) whether it's the first six overs or the last four overs. Wherever you bowl in this (T20) format, it is very difficult.

"If you don't do a good planning or if you don't have a good strategy it (will) always be difficult, because there is power-play with only two fielders outside the circle, so good chances of you getting hit for runs. It is all about pure strategy, planning and execution," he said.

He also admitted that things have gone the SRH way in the current edition of the IPL, where they have won three of the first four games.

"So far it's been good. It has been the start of the tournament, almost everything went our way. Of the four matches (played so far), we have lost only one. So far I am pretty confident as a bowler and looking forward to the next (set of) matches."

Bhuvneshwar also praised captaincy of New Zealander Kane Williamson.

"He has always been a good captain, he has captained New Zealand for many years and has been successful. He is a calm guy, so whatever situation comes, he thinks calmly about that and you can see the results in the first three matches. He loves to keep simple," he added.

Bhuvneshwar made his ODI and T20 debut in 2012

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has become a vital cog in the wheel for whichever team he plays, and the India and Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer says experience and superior fitness have made him an improved bowler. Bhuvneshwar, who made his ODI and T20 debut in 2012, has so far grabbed 90 wickets in 86 ODIs and 28 wickets in 26 T20s and has become the go-to man for skipper Virat Kohli. "The big change is experience, learning the things. At any stage, initially, you don't know much about those places or that environment, so (when) you keep playing you get to know, what the things are like there. Nothing is easy. So, yes experience - which I have gained over the last two-three years - really improved me as a bowler," the 28-year-old Meerut born player told PTI. "And the other thing is fitness, the foremost thing which can keep you going for so many years," he said. Asked whether he got any tips or advice from anybody, he said, "No, nothing, no special thing. I have been working in general, the way you do - match practise, fitness drills and individual skill - there is nothing special." The swing bowler said there was "commitment to improve my fitness and improve as a bowler". Bhuvneshwar, who is at ease bowling at the start and even in the death overs in white ball cricket, says that bowling at any point in T20 format is difficult. "It is difficult to bowl any over, doesn't (matter) whether it's the first six overs or the last four overs. Wherever you bowl in this (T20) format, it is very difficult. "If you don't do a good planning or if you don't have a good strategy it (will) always be difficult, because there is power-play with only two fielders outside the circle, so good chances of you getting hit for runs. It is all about pure strategy, planning and execution," he said. He also admitted that things have gone the SRH way in the current edition of the IPL, where they have won three of the first four games. "So far it's been good. It has been the start of the tournament, almost everything went our way. Of the four matches (played so far), we have lost only one. So far I am pretty confident as a bowler and looking forward to the next (set of) matches." Bhuvneshwar also praised captaincy of New Zealander Kane Williamson. "He has always been a good captain, he has captained New Zealand for many years and has been successful. He is a calm guy, so whatever situation comes, he thinks calmly about that and you can see the results in the first three matches. He loves to keep simple," he added.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar credits experience, better fitness for improvement

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