<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam has not enjoyed the best of campaigns in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 so far and has been struggling to score runs consistently. His poor form continued in Pakistan's clash against Netherlands on Sunday (October 30) as Babar recorded another flop show and was dismissed cheaply on just 4 off 5 balls.</p>

<p>There were concerns over Babar's form in the run-up to the T20 World Cup, however, those were brushed aside after the Pakistan skipper's good show in the home series against England, and the tri-series in New Zealand. However, he has failed to perform in all three games for his side in the ongoing showpiece event.</p>

<p>Chasing a low-key target of 92 runs, the stage was set for the Pakistan skipper to get into the groove against Netherlands on Sunday. However, he was run out without troubling the scorers much in the game. Veteran India spinner Amit Mishra took a hilarious dig at Babar following his failure.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-pakistan-register-their-first-win-beat-netherlands-by-six-wickets-529603">T20 World Cup 2022: Pakistan register their first win, beat Netherlands by six wickets</a></p>

<p>Mishra took to Twitter and wrote, "This too shall pass. Stay strong", referring to an old tweet that Babar had posted earlier this year for Kohli when the senior India batter was dealing with a lean patch in international cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This too shall pass. Stay strong <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam258</a>.</p>
— Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) <a href="https://twitter.com/MishiAmit/status/1586652390161526784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Babar has had a disastrous start to the tournament in Australia and his poor performances have also impacted Pakistan's chances in the ongoing T20 World Cup. He has so far managed only 8 runs in three matches at an abysmal average of 2.66.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-answer-this-crap-wasim-akram-loses-cool-after-question-over-md-rizwans-lip-balm-in-t20-world-cup-529601">'I can't answer this crap': Wasim Akram loses cool after question over Md. Rizwan's lip balm in T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>Babar's failure at the top was one of the key reasons behind Pakistan losing their first two Super 12 games in a row. The Men in Green lost their opening game against India before suffering a shock defeat at the hands of Zimbabwe. They bounced back on Sunday to bag their first win of the tournament after defeating Netherlands by six wickets.</p>

<p>Despite Babar's failure, Pakistan chased down the target of 92 runs comfortably with 6.1 overs to spare against Netherlands in Perth on Sunday to bag their first two points in the tournament and remain alive in the race for the semi-finals.</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam has not enjoyed the best of campaigns in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 so far and has been struggling to score runs consistently. His poor form continued in Pakistan's clash against Netherlands on Sunday (October 30) as Babar recorded another flop show and was dismissed cheaply on just 4 off 5 balls.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has not enjoyed the best of campaigns in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 so far and has been struggling to score runs consistently. His poor form continued in Pakistan's clash against Netherlands on Sunday (October 30) as Babar recorded another flop show and was dismissed cheaply on just 4 off 5 balls. There were concerns over Babar's form in the run-up to the T20 World Cup, however, those were brushed aside after the Pakistan skipper's good show in the home series against England, and the tri-series in New Zealand. However, he has failed to perform in all three games for his side in the ongoing showpiece event. Chasing a low-key target of 92 runs, the stage was set for the Pakistan skipper to get into the groove against Netherlands on Sunday. However, he was run out without troubling the scorers much in the game. Veteran India spinner Amit Mishra took a hilarious dig at Babar following his failure. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2022: Pakistan register their first win, beat Netherlands by six wickets Mishra took to Twitter and wrote, "This too shall pass. Stay strong", referring to an old tweet that Babar had posted earlier this year for Kohli when the senior India batter was dealing with a lean patch in international cricket. This too shall pass. Stay strong @babarazam258. — Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) October 30, 2022 × Babar has had a disastrous start to the tournament in Australia and his poor performances have also impacted Pakistan's chances in the ongoing T20 World Cup. He has so far managed only 8 runs in three matches at an abysmal average of 2.66. Also Read: 'I can't answer this crap': Wasim Akram loses cool after question over Md. Rizwan's lip balm in T20 World Cup Babar's failure at the top was one of the key reasons behind Pakistan losing their first two Super 12 games in a row. The Men in Green lost their opening game against India before suffering a shock defeat at the hands of Zimbabwe. They bounced back on Sunday to bag their first win of the tournament after defeating Netherlands by six wickets. Despite Babar's failure, Pakistan chased down the target of 92 runs comfortably with 6.1 overs to spare against Netherlands in Perth on Sunday to bag their first two points in the tournament and remain alive in the race for the semi-finals.

'This too shall pass': Indian spinner takes a dig at Babar Azam after his flop show vs Netherlands in T20 WC

<p>He had one of the greatest careers in cricket but the lack of thrill and excitement of the game after retirement&nbsp;pushed Wasim Akram towards drugs. Akram, widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game, has opened up on his cocaine addiction in his new autobiography — Sultan: A Memoir, excerpts from which were published by <em>The Times.&nbsp;</em>The autobiography also sheds light on several other controversial aspects of his career and personal life.</p>

<p>Akram, a legend of Pakistan cricket, has admitted to drug addiction for the first time through his book. He revealed it was at a party in England where he was first offered cocaine and snorted a line. From one line it soon became two and lines eventually became a gram or two.</p>

<p>The addiction started taking a toll on his body and personal life but the damage had already been done and Akram admitted it reached a point where it felt he needed to consume cocaine to function. It was only after the death of his former wife Huma that Akram decided to quit and change his life for the good.</p>

<p>Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in international cricket with over 900 scalps to his name, Akram has bared it all about his addiction in his book which also touches upon the infamous match-fixing saga involving him. Opening up on his dependence on cocaine, Akram revealed how it started and affected his life.</p>

<p>"I liked to indulge myself; I liked to party. The culture of fame in south Asia is all consuming, seductive and corrupting. You can go to 10&nbsp;parties a night.&nbsp;And it took its toll on me. My devices turned into vices,"&nbsp;Akram has written in his book, as per excerpts published by <em>The Times</em>.</p>

<p>"Worst of all, I developed a dependence on cocaine. It started innocuously enough when I was offered a line at a party in England; my use grew steadily more serious, to the point that I felt I needed it to function."</p>

<p>"It made me volatile. It made me deceptive. Huma, I know, was often lonely in this time ... she would talk of her desire to move to Karachi, to be nearer her parents and siblings. I was reluctant. Why? Partly because I liked going to Karachi on my own, pretending it was work when it was actually about partying, often for days at a time," he adds.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-wait-to-retire-australia-captain-aaron-finch-wants-to-watch-india-pakistan-game-live-529428">'Can’t wait to retire': Australia captain Aaron Finch wants to watch India-Pakistan game live</a></p>

<p>Akram revealed how his wife eventually found out about his cocaine addiction and knew he needed help. The former pacer agreed he needed to get out of it as his addiction was growing out of hand and it resulted in him ignoring his diabetes which impacted his body adversely.</p>

<p>"Huma eventually found me out, discovering a packet of cocaine in my wallet . . . ‘You need help.’ I agreed. It was getting out of hand. I couldn’t control it. One line would become two, two would become four; four would become a gram, a gram would become two. I could not sleep. I could not eat. I grew inattentive to my diabetes, which caused me headaches and mood swings. Like a lot of addicts, part of me welcomed discovery: the secrecy had been exhausting," Akram writes.</p>

<p><strong>Rehab didn't help Wasim Akram</strong></p>

<p>Akram was struggling to get control of his life with his drug addiction becoming unbearable. The Pakistan legend revealed he eventually agreed to go into rehab, however, the experience made him return to his old habits soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Pakistan cricketer said the doctor who was treating him at the rehab was a complete 'con man' whose primary motive was to milk money out of the families of his patients. Akram said the treatment made him gain weight and he felt like a 'zombie', who wanted to get out of rehab soon.</p>

<p>"Movies conjure up an image of rehab as a caring, nurturing environment. This facility was brutal: a bare building with five cells, a meeting room and a kitchen. The doctor was a complete con man, who worked primarily on manipulating families rather than treating patients, on separating relatives from money rather than users from drugs.</p>

<p>"The treatment was essentially sedation, with fistfuls of tablets to take in the morning and evening, coupled with lectures and prayer. I felt lethargic. I gained weight. For an hour a day I wandered round our little exercise yard like a zombie... I screamed at my wife. ‘I’ve got to get out of here'," Akram writes in his book.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-the-best-in-this-era-he-cannot-be-compared-says-former-pakistan-pacer-mohammad-amir-529440">Virat Kohli is the best in this era, he cannot be compared, says former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir</a></p>

<p>Akram spent seven weeks in rehab but the traumatic experience left him 'scared' as he found comfort in his addiction once again. The former Pakistan pacer started taking drugs again when he returned to England on commentary duties for the Champions Trophy in 2009, away from the watchful eyes of his wife.</p>

<p>"It was horrible. That scarred me for a bit . . . when people keep you against your will that pisses you off," Akram writes describing his experience in rehab.</p>

<p>"Try as I might, part of me was still smouldering inside about the indignity of what I’d been put through. My pride was hurt, and the lure of my lifestyle remained. I briefly contemplated divorce. I settled for heading to the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy where, out from under Huma’s daily scrutiny, I started using again, he says about his return to old habits.</p>

<p><strong>The turning point&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The turning point in Akram's life came following the death of his former wife Huma. While she couldn't stop him from drug abuse when she was still alive, her demise prompted the former Pakistan cricketer to rethink his way of life and change for the good.</p>

<p>Huma died after being diagnosed with a rare fungal infection called mucormycosis, which couldn't be treated in time as doctors in Pakistan failed to recognise&nbsp;it. Akram is currently married to&nbsp;Shaniera Akram, whom he tied the knot with in 2013. Calling it her last selfless act, Akram admitted ever since Huma's death he stopped taking drugs and never looked back.</p>

<p>"Huma’s last selfless, unconscious act was curing me of my drug problem. That way of life was over, and I have never looked back," he writes.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-is-insecure-plays-for-himself-wasim-akram-slams-pakistan-skipper-after-zimbabwe-defeat-529376">Babar Azam is insecure, plays for himself: Wasim Akram slams Pakistan skipper after Zimbabwe defeat</a></p>

<p><strong>The highs and lows of sport</strong></p>

<p>Akram has easily had one of the most decorated careers in the history of Pakistan cricket. He won the World Cup in 1992 and went on to captain the team before retiring as one of the most successful bowlers in world cricket.</p>

<p>However, he sorely missed the highs of the sport post-retirement which paved way for drug addiction that eventually made him sink to new lows. Akram revealed for him, cocaine was a substitute for the adrenaline rush that cricket gave him in&nbsp;his playing days.</p>

<p>"A&nbsp;substitute for the adrenaline rush of competition, which I sorely missed, or to take advantage of the opportunity, which I had never had," Akram writes explaining how he ended up becoming an addict.</p>

<p>Seen as one of the cricketing heroes of the nation even at present, Akram feels a lot might change after the release of his book as a lot of his admissions will shock and disappoint some fans but believes he needed to put out his side of the story for everyone to hear.</p>


He had one of the greatest careers in cricket but the lack of thrill and excitement of the game after retirement pushed Wasim Akram towards drugs. Akram, widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game, has opened up on his cocaine addiction in his new autobiography — Sultan: A Memoir, excerpts from which were published by The Times.

He had one of the greatest careers in cricket but the lack of thrill and excitement of the game after retirement pushed Wasim Akram towards drugs. Akram, widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game, has opened up on his cocaine addiction in his new autobiography — Sultan: A Memoir, excerpts from which were published by The Times. The autobiography also sheds light on several other controversial aspects of his career and personal life. Akram, a legend of Pakistan cricket, has admitted to drug addiction for the first time through his book. He revealed it was at a party in England where he was first offered cocaine and snorted a line. From one line it soon became two and lines eventually became a gram or two. The addiction started taking a toll on his body and personal life but the damage had already been done and Akram admitted it reached a point where it felt he needed to consume cocaine to function. It was only after the death of his former wife Huma that Akram decided to quit and change his life for the good. Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in international cricket with over 900 scalps to his name, Akram has bared it all about his addiction in his book which also touches upon the infamous match-fixing saga involving him. Opening up on his dependence on cocaine, Akram revealed how it started and affected his life. "I liked to indulge myself; I liked to party. The culture of fame in south Asia is all consuming, seductive and corrupting. You can go to 10 parties a night. And it took its toll on me. My devices turned into vices," Akram has written in his book, as per excerpts published by The Times. "Worst of all, I developed a dependence on cocaine. It started innocuously enough when I was offered a line at a party in England; my use grew steadily more serious, to the point that I felt I needed it to function." "It made me volatile. It made me deceptive. Huma, I know, was often lonely in this time ... she would talk of her desire to move to Karachi, to be nearer her parents and siblings. I was reluctant. Why? Partly because I liked going to Karachi on my own, pretending it was work when it was actually about partying, often for days at a time," he adds. Also Read: 'Can’t wait to retire': Australia captain Aaron Finch wants to watch India-Pakistan game live Akram revealed how his wife eventually found out about his cocaine addiction and knew he needed help. The former pacer agreed he needed to get out of it as his addiction was growing out of hand and it resulted in him ignoring his diabetes which impacted his body adversely. "Huma eventually found me out, discovering a packet of cocaine in my wallet . . . ‘You need help.’ I agreed. It was getting out of hand. I couldn’t control it. One line would become two, two would become four; four would become a gram, a gram would become two. I could not sleep. I could not eat. I grew inattentive to my diabetes, which caused me headaches and mood swings. Like a lot of addicts, part of me welcomed discovery: the secrecy had been exhausting," Akram writes. Rehab didn't help Wasim Akram Akram was struggling to get control of his life with his drug addiction becoming unbearable. The Pakistan legend revealed he eventually agreed to go into rehab, however, the experience made him return to his old habits soon. The former Pakistan cricketer said the doctor who was treating him at the rehab was a complete 'con man' whose primary motive was to milk money out of the families of his patients. Akram said the treatment made him gain weight and he felt like a 'zombie', who wanted to get out of rehab soon. "Movies conjure up an image of rehab as a caring, nurturing environment. This facility was brutal: a bare building with five cells, a meeting room and a kitchen. The doctor was a complete con man, who worked primarily on manipulating families rather than treating patients, on separating relatives from money rather than users from drugs. "The treatment was essentially sedation, with fistfuls of tablets to take in the morning and evening, coupled with lectures and prayer. I felt lethargic. I gained weight. For an hour a day I wandered round our little exercise yard like a zombie... I screamed at my wife. ‘I’ve got to get out of here'," Akram writes in his book. Also Read: Virat Kohli is the best in this era, he cannot be compared, says former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir Akram spent seven weeks in rehab but the traumatic experience left him 'scared' as he found comfort in his addiction once again. The former Pakistan pacer started taking drugs again when he returned to England on commentary duties for the Champions Trophy in 2009, away from the watchful eyes of his wife. "It was horrible. That scarred me for a bit . . . when people keep you against your will that pisses you off," Akram writes describing his experience in rehab. "Try as I might, part of me was still smouldering inside about the indignity of what I’d been put through. My pride was hurt, and the lure of my lifestyle remained. I briefly contemplated divorce. I settled for heading to the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy where, out from under Huma’s daily scrutiny, I started using again, he says about his return to old habits. The turning point The turning point in Akram's life came following the death of his former wife Huma. While she couldn't stop him from drug abuse when she was still alive, her demise prompted the former Pakistan cricketer to rethink his way of life and change for the good. Huma died after being diagnosed with a rare fungal infection called mucormycosis, which couldn't be treated in time as doctors in Pakistan failed to recognise it. Akram is currently married to Shaniera Akram, whom he tied the knot with in 2013. Calling it her last selfless act, Akram admitted ever since Huma's death he stopped taking drugs and never looked back. "Huma’s last selfless, unconscious act was curing me of my drug problem. That way of life was over, and I have never looked back," he writes. Also Read: Babar Azam is insecure, plays for himself: Wasim Akram slams Pakistan skipper after Zimbabwe defeat The highs and lows of sport Akram has easily had one of the most decorated careers in the history of Pakistan cricket. He won the World Cup in 1992 and went on to captain the team before retiring as one of the most successful bowlers in world cricket. However, he sorely missed the highs of the sport post-retirement which paved way for drug addiction that eventually made him sink to new lows. Akram revealed for him, cocaine was a substitute for the adrenaline rush that cricket gave him in his playing days. "A substitute for the adrenaline rush of competition, which I sorely missed, or to take advantage of the opportunity, which I had never had," Akram writes explaining how he ended up becoming an addict. Seen as one of the cricketing heroes of the nation even at present, Akram feels a lot might change after the release of his book as a lot of his admissions will shock and disappoint some fans but believes he needed to put out his side of the story for everyone to hear.

'I felt I needed it to function': Wasim Akram confesses becoming cocaine addict post retirement

<p>India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket and the two teams have produced some of the most memorable and riveting contests over the years. Recently, the two teams met in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 and treated their fans to a nail-biting thriller.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as India went on to clinch a last-ball thriller by four wickets against their arch-rivals. It was one of the best games of the tournament so far as the pendulum kept swinging in the favours&nbsp;of both teams before India eventually eked out a sensational victory.</p>

<p>Australia captain Aaron Finch, who absolutely enjoyed watching India's nail-biting win against Pakistan, said he can't wait for the day he retires so he can finally go and watch an India-Pakistan game live at the stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-is-insecure-plays-for-himself-wasim-akram-slams-pakistan-skipper-after-zimbabwe-defeat-529376">Babar Azam is insecure, plays for himself: Wasim Akram slams Pakistan skipper after Zimbabwe defeat</a></p>

<p>"Regardless of what the result is…I think the India-Pakistan game was amazing. I was actually sitting at home, nervous! I was nervous in the build-up watching that because I know how big a clash it is and I can’t wait for the day that I can retire and go and watch an India-Pakistan game live somewhere,"&nbsp;Finch told Australian presenter Melinda Farrell on her YouTube channel.</p>

<p>The Australian captain also heaped praise on Kohli for his stunning knock of unbeaten 82 which helped India pull off a miraculous win. Kohli's 53-ball 82 was laced with four sixes and six fours as he took the Pakistan bowlers to the cleaners in the death overs to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-didnt-have-to-prove-himself-bcci-president-roger-binny-lauds-india-star-after-t20-wc-heroics-529392">Kohli didn't have to prove himself: BCCI president Roger Binny lauds India star after T20 WC heroics</a></p>

<p>"What it was…was a Virat Kohli masterclass! You always felt even though…… with three overs to go that if you’re still there…you know the amount of pressure that he puts on the opposition just by being there and yeah it was just great viewing," said Finch.</p>

<p>While the chances of India and Pakistan meeting once again in the tournament this year are bleak after Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s two defeats in a row, the fans would love to watch the two rivals go head-to-head again in the knockout stages if they can make it to the semi-finals.</p>


India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket and the two teams have produced some of the most memorable and riveting contests over the years.

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket and the two teams have produced some of the most memorable and riveting contests over the years. Recently, the two teams met in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 and treated their fans to a nail-biting thriller. Virat Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as India went on to clinch a last-ball thriller by four wickets against their arch-rivals. It was one of the best games of the tournament so far as the pendulum kept swinging in the favours of both teams before India eventually eked out a sensational victory. Australia captain Aaron Finch, who absolutely enjoyed watching India's nail-biting win against Pakistan, said he can't wait for the day he retires so he can finally go and watch an India-Pakistan game live at the stadium. Also Read: Babar Azam is insecure, plays for himself: Wasim Akram slams Pakistan skipper after Zimbabwe defeat "Regardless of what the result is…I think the India-Pakistan game was amazing. I was actually sitting at home, nervous! I was nervous in the build-up watching that because I know how big a clash it is and I can’t wait for the day that I can retire and go and watch an India-Pakistan game live somewhere," Finch told Australian presenter Melinda Farrell on her YouTube channel. The Australian captain also heaped praise on Kohli for his stunning knock of unbeaten 82 which helped India pull off a miraculous win. Kohli's 53-ball 82 was laced with four sixes and six fours as he took the Pakistan bowlers to the cleaners in the death overs to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Also Read: Kohli didn't have to prove himself: BCCI president Roger Binny lauds India star after T20 WC heroics "What it was…was a Virat Kohli masterclass! You always felt even though…… with three overs to go that if you’re still there…you know the amount of pressure that he puts on the opposition just by being there and yeah it was just great viewing," said Finch. While the chances of India and Pakistan meeting once again in the tournament this year are bleak after Babar Azam & Co.'s two defeats in a row, the fans would love to watch the two rivals go head-to-head again in the knockout stages if they can make it to the semi-finals.

'Can’t wait to retire': Australia captain Aaron Finch wants to watch India-Pakistan game live

<p>Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has slammed Pakistan captain Babar Azam after the team's humiliating defeat against Zimbabwe in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. Akram and his former bowling partner Waqar Younis criticised&nbsp;Babar for being selfish when it came to retaining his opening spot in the batting line-up.</p>

<p>In a discussion on a Pakistan channel following the team's 1-run defeat against Zimbabwe, Waqar pointed out how there have been constant changes in the bowling department and the middle-order in Pakistan's T20I team, however, the openers have never been changed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Waqar believes opening is the easiest spot in T20Is and that Babar should have challenged himself by batting at no.3 and allowing someone else to take the top spot to set an example as a leader.</p>

<p>“The easiest place to bat in T20s is opening. You have not let anyone else open in the last two years. I have discussed this with Misbah before&nbsp;that why don’t you try something new? You have tried it out with bowling, but with batting, we have tried all the experiments with the middle order. But the openers have remained the same and they have batted 14-15 overs together,” Waqar said on A Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-india-not-an-unbeatable-side-we-are-even-worse-says-shoaib-akhtar-after-pakistan-lose-to-zimbabwe-529166">India not an unbeatable side, we are even worse, says Shoaib Akhtar after Pakistan lose to Zimbabwe</a></p>

<p>"Sometimes, as a captain and as a leader, you leave your spot and say, Haider, if it is not working out for you in the middle order, I will give you the easier spot (opening) and we never tried that out, and that is why we are suffering. And we also lose because of the way they score runs. To become No.1 and No. 2 (in T20I rankings) is not a big deal, the important thing is to win after scoring those runs,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>Akram agreed with Waqar's comments on Babar and accused the Pakistan skipper of being 'insecure' and 'playing for himself'. The former Pakistan pacer also went on to recall how Babar had refused to come down the order when Akram was part of the Karachi Kings' backroom staff in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).</p>

<p>"All of these things begin at the top. And at the top is your captain. If your captain plays for himself and is insecure. If your captain scores runs and lets other batters play at his position, you get to know that your captain is ready to sacrifice himself for you, this Babar has to learn,"&nbsp;said Wasim.</p>

<p>"I have been through this by the way with Babar, at Karachi Kings, yes. In the team we had a couple of bad phases and I requested him once or twice nicely, that please come down at number 3, we’ll try something different. Let (Martin) Guptill bat at the top, seeing he is an opener. And he (Babar) said I would not go down, you ask Sharjeel to bat at 3, and he (Sharjeel) is a natural opener too. And these little things that the captain does, the team senses too,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-babar-azam-starrer-pakistan-dressing-room-in-sheer-disbelief-after-zimbabwes-epic-t20-wc-win-529215">Babar Azam-starrer Pakistan dressing room in sheer disbelief after Zimbabwe's epic T20 WC win</a></p>

<p>Pakistan's shock defeat against Zimbabwe have put them on the brink of early elimination from the tournament as they have now lost their first two Super 12 clashes in a row. The Men in Green lost their opening game against India before suffering another last-ball defeat against Zimbabwe on Thursday.</p>

<p>Babar &amp; Co. now have two matches remaining against South Africa and Netherlands, and will need a miracle to make it to the semi-finals of the competition.</p>


Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has slammed Pakistan captain Babar Azam after the team's humiliating defeat against Zimbabwe in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022.

Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has slammed Pakistan captain Babar Azam after the team's humiliating defeat against Zimbabwe in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. Akram and his former bowling partner Waqar Younis criticised Babar for being selfish when it came to retaining his opening spot in the batting line-up. In a discussion on a Pakistan channel following the team's 1-run defeat against Zimbabwe, Waqar pointed out how there have been constant changes in the bowling department and the middle-order in Pakistan's T20I team, however, the openers have never been changed. Waqar believes opening is the easiest spot in T20Is and that Babar should have challenged himself by batting at no.3 and allowing someone else to take the top spot to set an example as a leader. “The easiest place to bat in T20s is opening. You have not let anyone else open in the last two years. I have discussed this with Misbah before that why don’t you try something new? You have tried it out with bowling, but with batting, we have tried all the experiments with the middle order. But the openers have remained the same and they have batted 14-15 overs together,” Waqar said on A Sports. Also Read: India not an unbeatable side, we are even worse, says Shoaib Akhtar after Pakistan lose to Zimbabwe "Sometimes, as a captain and as a leader, you leave your spot and say, Haider, if it is not working out for you in the middle order, I will give you the easier spot (opening) and we never tried that out, and that is why we are suffering. And we also lose because of the way they score runs. To become No.1 and No. 2 (in T20I rankings) is not a big deal, the important thing is to win after scoring those runs," he added. Akram agreed with Waqar's comments on Babar and accused the Pakistan skipper of being 'insecure' and 'playing for himself'. The former Pakistan pacer also went on to recall how Babar had refused to come down the order when Akram was part of the Karachi Kings' backroom staff in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). "All of these things begin at the top. And at the top is your captain. If your captain plays for himself and is insecure. If your captain scores runs and lets other batters play at his position, you get to know that your captain is ready to sacrifice himself for you, this Babar has to learn," said Wasim. "I have been through this by the way with Babar, at Karachi Kings, yes. In the team we had a couple of bad phases and I requested him once or twice nicely, that please come down at number 3, we’ll try something different. Let (Martin) Guptill bat at the top, seeing he is an opener. And he (Babar) said I would not go down, you ask Sharjeel to bat at 3, and he (Sharjeel) is a natural opener too. And these little things that the captain does, the team senses too," he added. Also Read: Babar Azam-starrer Pakistan dressing room in sheer disbelief after Zimbabwe's epic T20 WC win Pakistan's shock defeat against Zimbabwe have put them on the brink of early elimination from the tournament as they have now lost their first two Super 12 clashes in a row. The Men in Green lost their opening game against India before suffering another last-ball defeat against Zimbabwe on Thursday. Babar & Co. now have two matches remaining against South Africa and Netherlands, and will need a miracle to make it to the semi-finals of the competition.

Babar Azam is insecure, plays for himself: Wasim Akram slams Pakistan skipper after Zimbabwe defeat

<p>After losing to India on the last ball of their Super 12 opener, Pakistan went down to Zimbabwe as well during the T20 World Cup 2022 on Thursday (October 27) at the Perth Stadium, Perth. Opting to bat first, Craig Ervine-led Zimbabwe posted a modest 130-8, with Md Wasim Jr returning with 4 for 24, and had their back against the wall with Pakistan needing only 43 more off the last 39 balls, with seven wickets in hand.</p>

<p>However, Sikandar Raza (3 for 25) and Brad Evans (2 for 25) brought the African side back into the contest and led them to a famous one-run win&nbsp;on the last ball of the contest. Eventually, Pakistan managed only 129 for 8 despite needing only 3&nbsp;off the last three deliveries. There was no shortage of&nbsp;drama in a pulsating clash which left the Babar Azam-led Pakistani dressing room in disbelief and shock. <strong>Here's how the Men in Green dugout reacted to their shocking loss:</strong></p>

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— Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) <a href="https://twitter.com/KuchNahiUkhada/status/1585647475356229632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-india-not-an-unbeatable-side-we-are-even-worse-says-shoaib-akhtar-after-pakistan-lose-to-zimbabwe-529166">T20 WC: India not an unbeatable side, we are even worse, says Shoaib Akhtar after Pakistan lose to Zimbabwe</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "We would have taken 130 at the halfway stage. Very disappointing performance, we are not up to the mark in batting. We have good batters but both openers got out in the powerplay. When Shadab and Shan were building partnership, unfortunately Shadab got out and then back-to-back wickets that pushed us into pressure situation. First 6 overs, we haven't used the new ball well but we finished well with the ball. We will sit out, discuss our mistakes and we will train hard and come back strong in our next game."</p>

<p>With twin defeats at the start of their campaign, Pakistan are on the verge of an early exit from the Men's T20 WC in Australia. They next face the Netherlands on Sunday (October 30).</p>


After losing to India on the last ball of their Super 12 opener, Pakistan went down to Zimbabwe as well during the T20 World Cup 2022 on Thursday (October 27) at the Perth Stadium, Perth.

After losing to India on the last ball of their Super 12 opener, Pakistan went down to Zimbabwe as well during the T20 World Cup 2022 on Thursday (October 27) at the Perth Stadium, Perth. Opting to bat first, Craig Ervine-led Zimbabwe posted a modest 130-8, with Md Wasim Jr returning with 4 for 24, and had their back against the wall with Pakistan needing only 43 more off the last 39 balls, with seven wickets in hand. However, Sikandar Raza (3 for 25) and Brad Evans (2 for 25) brought the African side back into the contest and led them to a famous one-run win on the last ball of the contest. Eventually, Pakistan managed only 129 for 8 despite needing only 3 off the last three deliveries. There was no shortage of drama in a pulsating clash which left the Babar Azam-led Pakistani dressing room in disbelief and shock. Here's how the Men in Green dugout reacted to their shocking loss: pic.twitter.com/CY8XThZSHu — Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) October 27, 2022 × ALSO READ | T20 WC: India not an unbeatable side, we are even worse, says Shoaib Akhtar after Pakistan lose to Zimbabwe At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "We would have taken 130 at the halfway stage. Very disappointing performance, we are not up to the mark in batting. We have good batters but both openers got out in the powerplay. When Shadab and Shan were building partnership, unfortunately Shadab got out and then back-to-back wickets that pushed us into pressure situation. First 6 overs, we haven't used the new ball well but we finished well with the ball. We will sit out, discuss our mistakes and we will train hard and come back strong in our next game." With twin defeats at the start of their campaign, Pakistan are on the verge of an early exit from the Men's T20 WC in Australia. They next face the Netherlands on Sunday (October 30).

Watch: Babar Azam-starrer Pakistan dressing room in sheer disbelief after Zimbabwe's epic T20 WC win

<p>India and Pakistan locked horns in the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the MCG, Melbourne, on Sunday (October 23). In front of a jam-packed stadium, the Asian giants produced a nerve-wreaking match which went down to the wire before Virat Kohli's 82 not out took India home on the final ball of the contest.</p>

<p>Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma's Team India restricted Pakistan to 159-8. After riding on Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya's three-fers, Indian openers commenced the run-chase but departed soon as Men in Blue were tottering at 31 for 4. Kohli and Hardik got together and stitched a memorable 113-run fifth-wicket stand before the last over saw India needing 16 for victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After much drama, R Ashwin hit the winning runs on the final ball as India pulled off a heist versus the Men in Green. The last over saw a waist-high delivery being smacked for a six by Kohli, which was followed by the umpires declaring it a no-ball and a free-hit followed suit. On the free-hit delivery, Md Nawaz clean bowled Kohli but the ball went towards the deep third-man region as the Indians ran three and brought down the equation, amid a lot of discussion between Pakistani players and the on-field&nbsp;umpires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With two needed off the last two deliveries, India lost Dinesh Karthik. Ashwin came in and Nawaz bowled a wide before his final ball was hit for a four by the off-spinner as India emerged on top. Now, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has reacted to the high-voltage clash.</p>

<p><strong>'This game can be cruel and unfair'</strong></p>

<p>"A classic! You win some, you lose some and, as we all know, this game can be cruel and unfair. Couldn't have given more with bat and ball. Very proud of the effort!" Ramiz&nbsp;tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A classic! You win some you lose some and as we all know this game can be cruel and unfair .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamPakistan</a> couldn’t have given more with bat and ball. Very proud of the effort!</p>
— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) <a href="https://twitter.com/iramizraja/status/1584163592823136258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized: Md Hafeez slams https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-told-us-to-rohit-sharma-reveals-virat-kohlis-pep-talk-ahead-of-indo-pak-t20-wc-clash-527976">'He told us to...' - Rohit Sharma reveals Virat Kohli's pep talk ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash</a></strong></p>

<p>"It was a tight match and the bowlers did well in the first 10 overs as it wasn't easy. Credit goes to Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli, for the way they shifted the momentum and finished the match," Babar said in the post-match press conference.</p>

<p>"Basically, the plan was to introduce our main bowlers because we needed wickets and build pressure as a partnership was building. But unfortunately, it didn't happen. Virat Kohli showed his class and Nawaz also did well. It was a close match," he added.</p>

<p>Pakistan will next face Zimbabwe on Thursday (October 27) whereas India will play the Netherlands on the same day, at the SCG, Sydney.</p>


India and Pakistan locked horns in the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the MCG, Melbourne, on Sunday (October 23). In front of a jam-packed stadium, the Asian giants produced a nerve-wreaking match which went down to the wire before Virat Kohli's 82 not out took India home on the final ball of the contest.

India and Pakistan locked horns in the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the MCG, Melbourne, on Sunday (October 23). In front of a jam-packed stadium, the Asian giants produced a nerve-wreaking match which went down to the wire before Virat Kohli's 82 not out took India home on the final ball of the contest. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma's Team India restricted Pakistan to 159-8. After riding on Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya's three-fers, Indian openers commenced the run-chase but departed soon as Men in Blue were tottering at 31 for 4. Kohli and Hardik got together and stitched a memorable 113-run fifth-wicket stand before the last over saw India needing 16 for victory. After much drama, R Ashwin hit the winning runs on the final ball as India pulled off a heist versus the Men in Green. The last over saw a waist-high delivery being smacked for a six by Kohli, which was followed by the umpires declaring it a no-ball and a free-hit followed suit. On the free-hit delivery, Md Nawaz clean bowled Kohli but the ball went towards the deep third-man region as the Indians ran three and brought down the equation, amid a lot of discussion between Pakistani players and the on-field umpires. With two needed off the last two deliveries, India lost Dinesh Karthik. Ashwin came in and Nawaz bowled a wide before his final ball was hit for a four by the off-spinner as India emerged on top. Now, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has reacted to the high-voltage clash. 'This game can be cruel and unfair' "A classic! You win some, you lose some and, as we all know, this game can be cruel and unfair. Couldn't have given more with bat and ball. Very proud of the effort!" Ramiz tweeted. A classic! You win some you lose some and as we all know this game can be cruel and unfair .#TeamPakistan couldn’t have given more with bat and ball. Very proud of the effort! — Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) October 23, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He told us to...' - Rohit Sharma reveals Virat Kohli's pep talk ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash "It was a tight match and the bowlers did well in the first 10 overs as it wasn't easy. Credit goes to Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli, for the way they shifted the momentum and finished the match," Babar said in the post-match press conference. "Basically, the plan was to introduce our main bowlers because we needed wickets and build pressure as a partnership was building. But unfortunately, it didn't happen. Virat Kohli showed his class and Nawaz also did well. It was a close match," he added. Pakistan will next face Zimbabwe on Thursday (October 27) whereas India will play the Netherlands on the same day, at the SCG, Sydney.

T20 WC: 'This game can be cruel and unfair' - Ramiz Raja reacts after India pull off a heist vs Pakistan

<p>India recorded a thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23) to get off to a winning start in the tournament. India rode on a stunning unbeaten half-century from Virat Kohli to pull off a miraculous victory at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne.</p>

<p>It was a stellar knock from Kohli, who soaked in all the pressure and launched a fearsome counterattack against the Pakistan bowlers in the death overs to take India home from an improbable situation. With 48 to get off the last 18 balls, Kohli took Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf to the cleaners and brought the equation down to 16 runs required off the last over.</p>

<p>There was thrill, emotions, and drama in the final over as India eventually managed to get over the line on the final delivery. It turned out to be one of the most memorable clashes between India and Pakistan in recent times but the game was marred with some controversy as expected.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-hell-with-the-spirit-of-the-game-hardik-pandya-shares-his-take-on-run-out-at-non-strikers-end-528119">'To hell with the Spirit of the Game': Hardik Pandya shares his take on run out at non-striker's end</a></p>

<p>A no-ball decision in the last over from Mohammad Nawaz went in India's favour and became one of the major talking points in the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Several former cricketers have spoken about the controversial call with former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi becoming the latest to join the bandwagon.</p>

<p>On the 4th delivery of the 20th over, Nawaz bowled a full-toss above waist height to Kohli, who dispatched it for a six with India requiring 13 off the last three deliveries. The umpires had a discussion with Kohli before deeming the delivery as a no-ball which proved to be a game-changing moment for India as the equation was reduced to six&nbsp;required of the last three balls.</p>

<p>"There have been several instances in the past when run-outs have been referred to third umpires in the past. It was a crucial situation in the game and if it was referred to the third umpire then the on-field umpires could have had a clear picture. But they decided to immediately signal a bo ball. They don't have eagle eyes, they could have referred to the third umpire," Afridi said on Samaa TV.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-surpasses-rahul-dravid-to-become-sixth-highest-run-getter-in-international-cricket-528017">Virat Kohli surpasses Rahul Dravid to become sixth-highest run getter in international cricket</a></p>

<p>After their thrilling victory against Pakistan, India will be riding high on confidence and will be hoping to continue their winning run against Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash. The Men in Blue are now overwhelming favourites to qualify for the knockout stages from Group 2.</p>


India recorded a thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23) to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

India recorded a thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23) to get off to a winning start in the tournament. India rode on a stunning unbeaten half-century from Virat Kohli to pull off a miraculous victory at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne. It was a stellar knock from Kohli, who soaked in all the pressure and launched a fearsome counterattack against the Pakistan bowlers in the death overs to take India home from an improbable situation. With 48 to get off the last 18 balls, Kohli took Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf to the cleaners and brought the equation down to 16 runs required off the last over. There was thrill, emotions, and drama in the final over as India eventually managed to get over the line on the final delivery. It turned out to be one of the most memorable clashes between India and Pakistan in recent times but the game was marred with some controversy as expected. Also Read: 'To hell with the Spirit of the Game': Hardik Pandya shares his take on run out at non-striker's end A no-ball decision in the last over from Mohammad Nawaz went in India's favour and became one of the major talking points in the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Several former cricketers have spoken about the controversial call with former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi becoming the latest to join the bandwagon. On the 4th delivery of the 20th over, Nawaz bowled a full-toss above waist height to Kohli, who dispatched it for a six with India requiring 13 off the last three deliveries. The umpires had a discussion with Kohli before deeming the delivery as a no-ball which proved to be a game-changing moment for India as the equation was reduced to six required of the last three balls. "There have been several instances in the past when run-outs have been referred to third umpires in the past. It was a crucial situation in the game and if it was referred to the third umpire then the on-field umpires could have had a clear picture. But they decided to immediately signal a bo ball. They don't have eagle eyes, they could have referred to the third umpire," Afridi said on Samaa TV. Also Read: Virat Kohli surpasses Rahul Dravid to become sixth-highest run getter in international cricket After their thrilling victory against Pakistan, India will be riding high on confidence and will be hoping to continue their winning run against Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash. The Men in Blue are now overwhelming favourites to qualify for the knockout stages from Group 2.

You don't have eagle eyes: Shahid Afridi slams umpires over controversial no-ball call in India-Pakistan clash

<p>Babar Azam-led Pakistan opened their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by locking horns with Team India in the Super 12 clash, on Sunday (October 23) at the MCG, Melbourne. In a riveting clash, Pakistan lost on the final ball of the encounter as Virat Kohli's 82 not out propelled the one-time winners to a thrilling four-wicket win after they were reeling at 31 for 4 in pursuit of 160.</p>

<p>After the defeat, many former Pakistani cricketers have raised fingers at Babar's leadership. The criticism has been levied upon Babar for not using Mohammad Nawaz properly and making him bowl the final over. Some also feel Pakistan need to have a sixth bowling option in the upcoming games and, hence, weren't satisfied with the team selection for the India face-off. In addition, the ploy to keep Md Rizwan stand a few steps behind the stumps to Nawaz baffled many (which was mainly done to save the byes, etc). Recently, former Pakistan skipper Saleem Malik has lashed out at Babar and asked him to leave captaincy.</p>

<p>Speaking on 24 News, Malik said, “<em>Yeh pressure wala situation and aise time main senior player ka bohot bada role hota hai. Agar captain to nehi samjh aa raha uss waqt ya lag raha he ki galat decision le raha hain then aap jaake bata sakte hain ki woh galat jaa rahein hai. Iisiliye main humesha kehta hu ki fast bowler ke sath ke senior banda khara hona chaiye jo usko bataye. Itne saalo ke baad bhi agar aapko captaincy nahi aati then aapko chor dena chaiye. Agar same mistakes baar baar kar rahein hai toh best hai ki captaincy nehi karni chaiye. Bohot saare logon ne captaincy chori hai</em>&nbsp;(Senior players play an important role in these kind of pressure situations. If the captain is not able to make a good decision, he can ttalk to seniors where he is going wrong. That's why I always say that a senior player should be with a fast bowler, who can advise him. After so many years, if you are not able to lead properly then it's best to leave it. Many have left it in the past, if you keep making same mistakes again and again, no harm in leaving the captaincy.)"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-babar-azams-captaincy-is-like-a-sacred-cow-that-cannot-be-criticized-says-md-hafeez-528136"><strong>T20 WC: Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized, says Md Hafeez</strong></a></p>

<p>After the clash, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has also criticised Babar and told&nbsp;<em>Rahi Cricke</em>t, "Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized. It's the third consecutive big game that we are seeing flaws in Babar captaincy, but we keep hearing that by the time he gets to the age of 32 he will learn. In today's match, from the 7th over till the 11th over, when India were struggling for even 4 runs an over, why did Babar not fulfil the spin quota overs in that time frame?."</p>

<p>Babar-led Pakistan will now face Zimbabwe in their next T20 WC match, at Perth, on Thursday (October 27) in a bid to keep their semi-finals hopes alive.</p>


Babar Azam-led Pakistan opened their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by locking horns with Team India in the Super 12 clash, on Sunday (October 23) at the MCG, Melbourne.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan opened their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by locking horns with Team India in the Super 12 clash, on Sunday (October 23) at the MCG, Melbourne. In a riveting clash, Pakistan lost on the final ball of the encounter as Virat Kohli's 82 not out propelled the one-time winners to a thrilling four-wicket win after they were reeling at 31 for 4 in pursuit of 160. After the defeat, many former Pakistani cricketers have raised fingers at Babar's leadership. The criticism has been levied upon Babar for not using Mohammad Nawaz properly and making him bowl the final over. Some also feel Pakistan need to have a sixth bowling option in the upcoming games and, hence, weren't satisfied with the team selection for the India face-off. In addition, the ploy to keep Md Rizwan stand a few steps behind the stumps to Nawaz baffled many (which was mainly done to save the byes, etc). Recently, former Pakistan skipper Saleem Malik has lashed out at Babar and asked him to leave captaincy. Speaking on 24 News, Malik said, “Yeh pressure wala situation and aise time main senior player ka bohot bada role hota hai. Agar captain to nehi samjh aa raha uss waqt ya lag raha he ki galat decision le raha hain then aap jaake bata sakte hain ki woh galat jaa rahein hai. Iisiliye main humesha kehta hu ki fast bowler ke sath ke senior banda khara hona chaiye jo usko bataye. Itne saalo ke baad bhi agar aapko captaincy nahi aati then aapko chor dena chaiye. Agar same mistakes baar baar kar rahein hai toh best hai ki captaincy nehi karni chaiye. Bohot saare logon ne captaincy chori hai (Senior players play an important role in these kind of pressure situations. If the captain is not able to make a good decision, he can ttalk to seniors where he is going wrong. That's why I always say that a senior player should be with a fast bowler, who can advise him. After so many years, if you are not able to lead properly then it's best to leave it. Many have left it in the past, if you keep making same mistakes again and again, no harm in leaving the captaincy.)" ALSO READ | T20 WC: Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized, says Md Hafeez After the clash, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has also criticised Babar and told Rahi Cricket, "Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized. It's the third consecutive big game that we are seeing flaws in Babar captaincy, but we keep hearing that by the time he gets to the age of 32 he will learn. In today's match, from the 7th over till the 11th over, when India were struggling for even 4 runs an over, why did Babar not fulfil the spin quota overs in that time frame?." Babar-led Pakistan will now face Zimbabwe in their next T20 WC match, at Perth, on Thursday (October 27) in a bid to keep their semi-finals hopes alive.

'If you're not able to lead, best to leave captaincy' - Ex-Pak skipper tells Babar Azam after India defeat

<p>Virat Kohli produced another masterclass while chasing as India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Playing at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, India asked Pakistan to bat first and restricted them to 159-8. In reply, India were 31 for 4 before Kohli's 82 not out, along with Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40, propelled India to a four-wicket win on the last ball of the run-chase.</p>

<p>Kohli, at No. 3, joined the run-chase with KL Rahul being out for 4. Soon, skipper Rohit Sharma also joined Rahul back in the pavillion and India were reduced to 31 for 4. Hardik-Kohli stitched a 113-run fifth-wicket stand and took the game deeper. While Hardik was the aggressor at the start, he somehow fell behind but Kohli timed his acceleration and played some unbelievable shots at the backend of the innings to take India to a stunning win.</p>

<p>Kohli was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match for his breathtaking 53-ball unbeaten 82, lacked with 6 fours and 4 sixes. At first, he was struggling and started slowly as he was 12 off 21 balls. Nonetheless, he attacked the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf (Pakistan's best bowler of the evening) and Md Nawaz to help India open its account in the tournament, in Australia.</p>

<p>Speaking to Star Sports after the match, Kohli recalled his initial struggles and said, "Honestly, I was feeling a lot of pressure at that stage. But then when he came in and he hit a few boundaries, I kind of opened up. That partnership, we didn't even realise when we got to our 100. We kept talking, we kept running hard and kept watching their body language. We knew it would turn at some stage, it turned quite late to be honest. We would have liked to do it earlier."</p>

<p>"All these things look great at the end, to be honest. When I was 12 of 21, I was like 'I am really messing this game up. I am not putting ball in the gaps'. But when you have experience and understand the value of batting deep, that's always been my role-playing for India. I know that I can do a lot of the power-hitting towards the end of the innings," the former captain asserted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-virat-kohli-breaks-into-tears-after-his-scintillating-show-against-pakistan-watch-527825"><strong>T20 WC: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch</strong></a></p>

<p>"I told Hardik that if we go after Haris Rauf, if he goes for a big over, they will panic big time. And that's exactly what happened."</p>

<p>"A lot of credit should go to Hardik, he came and he was very, very positive. He kept telling me to be positive and keep pushing it in the gaps. He was telling me to take the game deep and kept believing in it," Kohli further added.</p>

<p>India will now take on the Netherlands on Thursday evening (October 27) at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney and aim to make it two wins in a row at the T20 WC, being held Down Under.</p>


Virat Kohli produced another masterclass while chasing as India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Playing at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, India asked Pakistan to bat first and restricted them to 159-8.

Virat Kohli produced another masterclass while chasing as India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Playing at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, India asked Pakistan to bat first and restricted them to 159-8. In reply, India were 31 for 4 before Kohli's 82 not out, along with Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40, propelled India to a four-wicket win on the last ball of the run-chase. Kohli, at No. 3, joined the run-chase with KL Rahul being out for 4. Soon, skipper Rohit Sharma also joined Rahul back in the pavillion and India were reduced to 31 for 4. Hardik-Kohli stitched a 113-run fifth-wicket stand and took the game deeper. While Hardik was the aggressor at the start, he somehow fell behind but Kohli timed his acceleration and played some unbelievable shots at the backend of the innings to take India to a stunning win. Kohli was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match for his breathtaking 53-ball unbeaten 82, lacked with 6 fours and 4 sixes. At first, he was struggling and started slowly as he was 12 off 21 balls. Nonetheless, he attacked the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf (Pakistan's best bowler of the evening) and Md Nawaz to help India open its account in the tournament, in Australia. Speaking to Star Sports after the match, Kohli recalled his initial struggles and said, "Honestly, I was feeling a lot of pressure at that stage. But then when he came in and he hit a few boundaries, I kind of opened up. That partnership, we didn't even realise when we got to our 100. We kept talking, we kept running hard and kept watching their body language. We knew it would turn at some stage, it turned quite late to be honest. We would have liked to do it earlier." "All these things look great at the end, to be honest. When I was 12 of 21, I was like 'I am really messing this game up. I am not putting ball in the gaps'. But when you have experience and understand the value of batting deep, that's always been my role-playing for India. I know that I can do a lot of the power-hitting towards the end of the innings," the former captain asserted. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch "I told Hardik that if we go after Haris Rauf, if he goes for a big over, they will panic big time. And that's exactly what happened." "A lot of credit should go to Hardik, he came and he was very, very positive. He kept telling me to be positive and keep pushing it in the gaps. He was telling me to take the game deep and kept believing in it," Kohli further added. India will now take on the Netherlands on Thursday evening (October 27) at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney and aim to make it two wins in a row at the T20 WC, being held Down Under.

'When I was 12 of 21...' - Virat Kohli thought he was 'messing the game up' during MCG blitz vs Pakistan

<p>After much hullabaloo, India and Pakistan squared off in the fourth game of the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, on Sunday afternoon (October 23). Playing in front of a jam-packed Melbourne Cricket Stadium, Melbourne, the clash was a humdinger which saw Rohit Sharma-led India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a last-over thriller, courtesy of Virat Kohli's majestic 82 not out.</p>

<p>Opting to bowl first, India was off to a good start. The opening bowlers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh got some movement and bounce and curtailed the run-flow. As a result, Pakistan captain Babar Azam shuffled off Arshdeep but was trapped lbw, after missing the ball completely, to be out for a golden duck. Rizwan also followed suit, surprised by a well-executed short ball from Arshdeep (3 for 32).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shan Masood steadied the ship after the fall of the Pakistani openers. Iftikhar Ahmed, on the other hand, took on Axar Patel and went bonkers with some lusty blows. With Iftikhar adding some vital runs, Rohit brought Md Shami back into the attack and he dismissed him for a 34-ball 51. From thereon, some vital blows from Shaheen Afridi (8-ball 16) and Masood's cautious 42-ball 52 not out took Pakistan to a competitive 159 for 8 in 20 overs. Apart from Arshdeep, Hardik also impressed and returned with 3 for 30.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-controls-emotions-during-national-anthem-ahead-of-indo-pak-t20-wc-clash-527731"><strong>WATCH: Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash</strong></a></p>

<p>In reply, Indian openers were tentative and&nbsp;dismissed for cheap inside the powerplay overs. KL Rahul chopped it onto the stumps, off Naseem shah, whereas Haris Rauf removed Rohit for 4. In-form batter Suryakumar Yadav showed a lot of promise and took the scoreboard forward with some confident strokes before falling for 15, off Rauf. After being promoted&nbsp;to No. 5,&nbsp;Axar Patel was involved in a&nbsp;mix-up with&nbsp;Kohli and&nbsp;luck favoured the Men in Green as he was run out for 2.</p>

<p>From thereon, Hardik&nbsp;(40 off 37) joined Kohli as the duo stitched an impressive 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down as the partnership progressed, however, Kohli -- who has an impeccable record versus Pakistan in T20 WC history -- took on the likes of Shadab Khan, Shaheen, and Md Nawaz to keep India in the hunt.</p>

<p>With 48 needed off 18, Kohli's timely hits brought the equation down to 16 off 6 balls. There was a lot of drama with a wicket, waist-high delivery (which went for a six),&nbsp;a no-ball, a free-hit, etc. bringing down the equation&nbsp;to two off an equal number of balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dinesh Karthik faced the penultimate ball but was stumped out. Eventually, R Ashwin came out to face the last ball. Nawaz bowled a wide before Ashwin&nbsp;struck a boundary to take India home in what was a riveting clash. In an epic thriller, India&nbsp;beat Pakistan by four wickets to open its account in the ongoing T20 WC with a memorable victory.</p>

<p>Kohli's 82 not out, off 53 balls, was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 154.72. He returned with the Player-of-the-Match award.</p>


After much hullabaloo, India and Pakistan squared off in the fourth game of the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, on Sunday afternoon (October 23).

After much hullabaloo, India and Pakistan squared off in the fourth game of the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, on Sunday afternoon (October 23). Playing in front of a jam-packed Melbourne Cricket Stadium, Melbourne, the clash was a humdinger which saw Rohit Sharma-led India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a last-over thriller, courtesy of Virat Kohli's majestic 82 not out. Opting to bowl first, India was off to a good start. The opening bowlers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh got some movement and bounce and curtailed the run-flow. As a result, Pakistan captain Babar Azam shuffled off Arshdeep but was trapped lbw, after missing the ball completely, to be out for a golden duck. Rizwan also followed suit, surprised by a well-executed short ball from Arshdeep (3 for 32). Shan Masood steadied the ship after the fall of the Pakistani openers. Iftikhar Ahmed, on the other hand, took on Axar Patel and went bonkers with some lusty blows. With Iftikhar adding some vital runs, Rohit brought Md Shami back into the attack and he dismissed him for a 34-ball 51. From thereon, some vital blows from Shaheen Afridi (8-ball 16) and Masood's cautious 42-ball 52 not out took Pakistan to a competitive 159 for 8 in 20 overs. Apart from Arshdeep, Hardik also impressed and returned with 3 for 30. ALSO READ | WATCH: Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash In reply, Indian openers were tentative and dismissed for cheap inside the powerplay overs. KL Rahul chopped it onto the stumps, off Naseem shah, whereas Haris Rauf removed Rohit for 4. In-form batter Suryakumar Yadav showed a lot of promise and took the scoreboard forward with some confident strokes before falling for 15, off Rauf. After being promoted to No. 5, Axar Patel was involved in a mix-up with Kohli and luck favoured the Men in Green as he was run out for 2. From thereon, Hardik (40 off 37) joined Kohli as the duo stitched an impressive 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down as the partnership progressed, however, Kohli -- who has an impeccable record versus Pakistan in T20 WC history -- took on the likes of Shadab Khan, Shaheen, and Md Nawaz to keep India in the hunt. With 48 needed off 18, Kohli's timely hits brought the equation down to 16 off 6 balls. There was a lot of drama with a wicket, waist-high delivery (which went for a six), a no-ball, a free-hit, etc. bringing down the equation to two off an equal number of balls. Dinesh Karthik faced the penultimate ball but was stumped out. Eventually, R Ashwin came out to face the last ball. Nawaz bowled a wide before Ashwin struck a boundary to take India home in what was a riveting clash. In an epic thriller, India beat Pakistan by four wickets to open its account in the ongoing T20 WC with a memorable victory. Kohli's 82 not out, off 53 balls, was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 154.72. He returned with the Player-of-the-Match award.

T20 WC 2022: Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller

<p>India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG.</p>

<p>India will be heading into the tournament as one of the favourites despite having underperformed in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. as they have tasted defeat twice in the last three meetings against Pakistan, including the T20 World Cup last year.</p>

<p>It is expected to be a cracker of a contest between the traditional rivals with Pakistan's quality pace attack going up against India's star-studded batting line-up. However, dark clouds hover over the game with the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne. Rain can pose a huge threat to the game with light showers expected to disrupt the play in the evening.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrap-asia-cup-dont-bring-politics-into-cricket-javed-miandad-slams-bcci-after-jay-shahs-comments-527557">Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments</a></p>

<p>As per the data from the Australian Meteorological Department, the chances of rain are high in Melbourne on Sunday. However, the game is expected not to get washed out completely. The showers might get heavier as the day progresses but the fans and players will hope for a full-fledged contest.</p>

<p>Earlier on Saturday, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had spoken about his team's preparations for the much-awaited clash. Sharma said the team was better prepared and will be looking to get off to a winning start in the tournament. He also spoke about the chances of rain playing spoilsport and insisted India are prepared having played an 8-over game against Australia at home earlier this year.</p>

<p>"I woke up and saw dark clouds over the buildings and now it is sunny. We will be coming into the match thinking it is a 40-over game. Luckily we have played a 8-over game against Australia in India," Rohit said in the pre-match presser ahead of the Pakistan game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/confident-india-hoping-to-turn-tables-on-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-clash-527624">Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash</a></p>

<p>While India are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for the entire tournament, Pakistan have been boosted by the return of their premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had terrorised the Indian top order last time the two teams met in the T20 World Cup.</p>


India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG.

India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG. India will be heading into the tournament as one of the favourites despite having underperformed in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma & Co. as they have tasted defeat twice in the last three meetings against Pakistan, including the T20 World Cup last year. It is expected to be a cracker of a contest between the traditional rivals with Pakistan's quality pace attack going up against India's star-studded batting line-up. However, dark clouds hover over the game with the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne. Rain can pose a huge threat to the game with light showers expected to disrupt the play in the evening. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments As per the data from the Australian Meteorological Department, the chances of rain are high in Melbourne on Sunday. However, the game is expected not to get washed out completely. The showers might get heavier as the day progresses but the fans and players will hope for a full-fledged contest. Earlier on Saturday, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had spoken about his team's preparations for the much-awaited clash. Sharma said the team was better prepared and will be looking to get off to a winning start in the tournament. He also spoke about the chances of rain playing spoilsport and insisted India are prepared having played an 8-over game against Australia at home earlier this year. "I woke up and saw dark clouds over the buildings and now it is sunny. We will be coming into the match thinking it is a 40-over game. Luckily we have played a 8-over game against Australia in India," Rohit said in the pre-match presser ahead of the Pakistan game. Also Read: Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash While India are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for the entire tournament, Pakistan have been boosted by the return of their premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had terrorised the Indian top order last time the two teams met in the T20 World Cup.

India vs Pakistan, Melbourne weather forecast: Will rain play spoilsport in India's T20 World Cup 2022 opener?

<p>Diwali arrived a bit early for millions of Indians around the world on Sunday (October 23) as Virat Kohli lit up the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with a cracking knock to set up India's thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022. Kohli smashed a stunning unbeaten 82 to help India clinch a last-ball thriller against the Babar Azam-led side.</p>

<p>Like millions of cricket fans around the world, Google CEO Sundar Pichai also remained glued to his TV screen to watch another chasing masterclass from Kohli, who went bonkers in the death overs to help India get 48 runs off the last three overs and get over the line in the pressure run-chase.</p>

<p>Pichai took to Twitter on Monday (October 24) to share his warm wishes on Diwali and said he celebrated the festival by watching the highlights of the last three overs of India's run-chase against Pakistan on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aliens-do-walk-among-us-pakistan-legend-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-after-his-memorable-knock-at-mcg-527922">'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG</a></p>

<p>"Happy Diwali! Hope everyone celebrating has a great time with your friends and family. I celebrated by watching the last three overs again today, what a game and performance #Diwali #TeamIndia #T20WC2022," the Google CEO wrote in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali! Hope everyone celebrating has a great time with your friends and family.<br />
I celebrated by watching the last three overs again today, what a game and performance <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WC2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WC2022</a></p>
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) <a href="https://twitter.com/sundarpichai/status/1584382062282256384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>A Pakistani troll tried to take a dig at the Google CEO over his tweet and asked him to also watch the first three overs. Pichai came up with a witty response to shut down the Twitter user. "Did that too:) what a spell from Bhuvi and Arshdeep,", he wrote in response.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Did that too:) what a spell from Bhuvi and Arshdeep</p>
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) <a href="https://twitter.com/sundarpichai/status/1584383534675816451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pichai referred to the first three overs of the game in his tweet where Indian pacers Arshdeep Singh and Bhuvneshwar Kumar had tightened the noose on the Pakistan top order. Arshdeep removed Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on a duck before getting rid of Mohammad Rizwan cheaply on 4 off 12 balls to leave Pakistan reeling at 15/2 inside four overs.</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thrill-drama-and-emotions-relive-nerve-wracking-last-over-between-india-and-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-527829">Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>Arshdeep and Hardik Pandya picked up three wickets apiece to help India restrict Pakistan to 159 runs in 20 overs before Kohli's masterclass saw the Men in Blue chase down the target on the final ball of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India were in a spot of bother in the 160-run chase with four batters back in the hut at 31/4 but Kohli and Pandya combined to revive India's chances and took the game down the wire. Kohli reigned supreme against the Pakistan bowling attack at the end as India managed to get 16 runs off the last six deliveries to register one of their most memorable wins against Pakistan in recent times.</p>


Diwali arrived a bit early for millions of Indians around the world on Sunday (October 23) as Virat Kohli lit up the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with a cracking knock to set up India's thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022.

Diwali arrived a bit early for millions of Indians around the world on Sunday (October 23) as Virat Kohli lit up the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with a cracking knock to set up India's thrilling four-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022. Kohli smashed a stunning unbeaten 82 to help India clinch a last-ball thriller against the Babar Azam-led side. Like millions of cricket fans around the world, Google CEO Sundar Pichai also remained glued to his TV screen to watch another chasing masterclass from Kohli, who went bonkers in the death overs to help India get 48 runs off the last three overs and get over the line in the pressure run-chase. Pichai took to Twitter on Monday (October 24) to share his warm wishes on Diwali and said he celebrated the festival by watching the highlights of the last three overs of India's run-chase against Pakistan on Sunday. Also Read: 'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG "Happy Diwali! Hope everyone celebrating has a great time with your friends and family. I celebrated by watching the last three overs again today, what a game and performance #Diwali #TeamIndia #T20WC2022," the Google CEO wrote in a tweet. Happy Diwali! Hope everyone celebrating has a great time with your friends and family. I celebrated by watching the last three overs again today, what a game and performance #Diwali #TeamIndia #T20WC2022 — Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) October 24, 2022 × A Pakistani troll tried to take a dig at the Google CEO over his tweet and asked him to also watch the first three overs. Pichai came up with a witty response to shut down the Twitter user. "Did that too:) what a spell from Bhuvi and Arshdeep,", he wrote in response. Did that too:) what a spell from Bhuvi and Arshdeep — Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) October 24, 2022 × Pichai referred to the first three overs of the game in his tweet where Indian pacers Arshdeep Singh and Bhuvneshwar Kumar had tightened the noose on the Pakistan top order. Arshdeep removed Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on a duck before getting rid of Mohammad Rizwan cheaply on 4 off 12 balls to leave Pakistan reeling at 15/2 inside four overs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Also Read: Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup Arshdeep and Hardik Pandya picked up three wickets apiece to help India restrict Pakistan to 159 runs in 20 overs before Kohli's masterclass saw the Men in Blue chase down the target on the final ball of the game. India were in a spot of bother in the 160-run chase with four batters back in the hut at 31/4 but Kohli and Pandya combined to revive India's chances and took the game down the wire. Kohli reigned supreme against the Pakistan bowling attack at the end as India managed to get 16 runs off the last six deliveries to register one of their most memorable wins against Pakistan in recent times.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai shuts down Pakistan troll with witty response after India's thrilling win in T20 WC

<p>D-day has finally arrived. India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the fourth game of the Super 12 round at the T20 World Cup on Sunday afternoon (October 23) at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Both Rohit Sharma's Team India and Babar Azam-led Pakistan will open their respective campaigns in the ICC event by facing each other in the marquee encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, both sides will be up and running from the word go. India and Pakistan met twice this year during the 2022 Asia Cup, where both teams won and lost a game each. Prior to that, Babar &amp; Co. defeated the then Virat Kohli-led Indian team by ten wickets in the 2021 T20 WC, in Dubai. Thus, Pakistan will feel confident facing India whereas Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to avoid another World Cup loss versus their arch-rivals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-india-vs-pakistan-live-cricket-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-epic-face-off-527678"><strong>T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off?</strong></a></p>

<p>A lot of talks have been around the weather in Melbourne ahead of the blockbuster face-off. Rain is expected to make its presence felt and there might be a batting shootout between sides in a rain-curtailed encounter at the iconic ground. While it is cloudy in Melbourne at the time of publishing this report, the notorious weather conditions might spring a surprise. A game is expected, by all means, but it might not be a full 40-over contest.</p>

<p><strong>Match prediction for IND vs PAK T20 WC clash: </strong>There are high chances of a rain-curtailed game at the MCG. If that happens, expect both captains to bowl first -- which is expected to be the case even if it is a full game -- with more batting ammunition. Given India have more firepower and are less dependent on their top two, an India win can be expected today.</p>


D-day has finally arrived. India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the fourth game of the Super 12 round at the T20 World Cup on Sunday afternoon (October 23) at the iconic MCG, Melbourne.

D-day has finally arrived. India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the fourth game of the Super 12 round at the T20 World Cup on Sunday afternoon (October 23) at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Both Rohit Sharma's Team India and Babar Azam-led Pakistan will open their respective campaigns in the ICC event by facing each other in the marquee encounter. Hence, both sides will be up and running from the word go. India and Pakistan met twice this year during the 2022 Asia Cup, where both teams won and lost a game each. Prior to that, Babar & Co. defeated the then Virat Kohli-led Indian team by ten wickets in the 2021 T20 WC, in Dubai. Thus, Pakistan will feel confident facing India whereas Rohit & Co. will be desperate to avoid another World Cup loss versus their arch-rivals. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off? A lot of talks have been around the weather in Melbourne ahead of the blockbuster face-off. Rain is expected to make its presence felt and there might be a batting shootout between sides in a rain-curtailed encounter at the iconic ground. While it is cloudy in Melbourne at the time of publishing this report, the notorious weather conditions might spring a surprise. A game is expected, by all means, but it might not be a full 40-over contest. Match prediction for IND vs PAK T20 WC clash: There are high chances of a rain-curtailed game at the MCG. If that happens, expect both captains to bowl first -- which is expected to be the case even if it is a full game -- with more batting ammunition. Given India have more firepower and are less dependent on their top two, an India win can be expected today.

T20 WC 2022, India vs Pakistan match prediction: Will Rohit & Co. avenge their 2021 humiliation at the MCG?

<p>There was drama, there was thrill and emotions peaked in the final over as India and Pakistan played out an absolute nail-biter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener on Sunday. Virat Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as India clinched the last-ball thriller by four wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament.</p>

<p>Kohli was the main architect of India's famous victory as he played one of the best knocks of his career so far. Kohli was just 11 off 20 balls when India were reeling in a spot of bother having lost as many as four wickets with just 31 runs on the board in the tricky chase of 160 runs.</p>

<p>However, the king proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest of all time by taking India home in a sensational manner. Kohli ended up scoring as many as 71 runs off his next 33 balls to keep India in the hunt till the end and help them pull off an improbable victory in the high-pressure chase.</p>

<p>Kohli began the real onslaught in the 18th over where he took Shaheen Afridi to the cleaners with three fours before smashing Haris Rauf for back-t-back sixes in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 required off the last over. However, what unfolded in the final over kept the fans and the players on the edge as India secured a dramatic win on the last ball.</p>

<p>With 16 to get, Hardik was sent back by Mohammad Nawaz on the first ball as he miscued his shot and was caught by Babar Azam. Dinesh Karthik, who is India's designated finisher in the tournament, arrived in the middle with a perfect situation for him to shine and prove his critics wrong.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-virat-kohli-breaks-into-tears-after-his-scintillating-show-against-pakistan-watch-527825">Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch</a></p>

<p>However, Karthik could only manage a single off the next ball before Kohli converted a single into two on the third delivery to reduce the equation to 13 needed off the last three balls. Kohli smacked a high full-toss from Nawaz for a huge six next and luck favoured India as it turned out to be a waist-height no-ball.</p>

<p>With the equation now down to 6 needed off the final three deliveries, Kohli was clean-bowled on the free-hit delivery. However, India managed to sneak three runs in byes to leave two to get off the last two balls. Just when it seemed, India had it in their bag after pulling off the unthinkable on the first four balls, Karthik was stumped by Rizwan on the penultimate delivery as more drama unfolded at the SCG.</p>

<p>R Ashwin arrived in the middle with India needing two off the last ball with Pakistan once again favourites. However, Nawaz ended up bowling a wide ball under pressure and Ashwin did well to leave it and tie the scores.</p>

<p>With millions around the globe glued to their TV screens and the spotlight on Ashwin, he nonchalantly lofted the final delivery for a single to wrap up a thrilling victory for India after a nerve-wracking last over. Following the winning run, a pumped-up Kohli punched the ground after letting his emotions flow and was later lifted and hugged by his teammates.</p>

<p><strong>Relive the epic last over between India and Pakistan here:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a></p>

<p>While Kohli rated his unbeaten 82 as the best knock of his career so far, India pulled off their highest successful run-chase against Pakistan in a T20I game. He helped India score 48 runs in the final three overs, which is the joint-most by any team in a run-chase in a T20 World Cup game.</p>

<p>With his knock, Kohli also went past Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter in T20Is and will be hoping to continue his purple patch when India take on Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash on Thursday (October 27).</p>


There was drama, there was thrill and emotions peaked in the final over as India and Pakistan played out an absolute nail-biter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener on Sunday.

There was drama, there was thrill and emotions peaked in the final over as India and Pakistan played out an absolute nail-biter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener on Sunday. Virat Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as India clinched the last-ball thriller by four wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament. Kohli was the main architect of India's famous victory as he played one of the best knocks of his career so far. Kohli was just 11 off 20 balls when India were reeling in a spot of bother having lost as many as four wickets with just 31 runs on the board in the tricky chase of 160 runs. However, the king proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest of all time by taking India home in a sensational manner. Kohli ended up scoring as many as 71 runs off his next 33 balls to keep India in the hunt till the end and help them pull off an improbable victory in the high-pressure chase. Kohli began the real onslaught in the 18th over where he took Shaheen Afridi to the cleaners with three fours before smashing Haris Rauf for back-t-back sixes in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 required off the last over. However, what unfolded in the final over kept the fans and the players on the edge as India secured a dramatic win on the last ball. With 16 to get, Hardik was sent back by Mohammad Nawaz on the first ball as he miscued his shot and was caught by Babar Azam. Dinesh Karthik, who is India's designated finisher in the tournament, arrived in the middle with a perfect situation for him to shine and prove his critics wrong. Also Read: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch However, Karthik could only manage a single off the next ball before Kohli converted a single into two on the third delivery to reduce the equation to 13 needed off the last three balls. Kohli smacked a high full-toss from Nawaz for a huge six next and luck favoured India as it turned out to be a waist-height no-ball. With the equation now down to 6 needed off the final three deliveries, Kohli was clean-bowled on the free-hit delivery. However, India managed to sneak three runs in byes to leave two to get off the last two balls. Just when it seemed, India had it in their bag after pulling off the unthinkable on the first four balls, Karthik was stumped by Rizwan on the penultimate delivery as more drama unfolded at the SCG. R Ashwin arrived in the middle with India needing two off the last ball with Pakistan once again favourites. However, Nawaz ended up bowling a wide ball under pressure and Ashwin did well to leave it and tie the scores. With millions around the globe glued to their TV screens and the spotlight on Ashwin, he nonchalantly lofted the final delivery for a single to wrap up a thrilling victory for India after a nerve-wracking last over. Following the winning run, a pumped-up Kohli punched the ground after letting his emotions flow and was later lifted and hugged by his teammates. Relive the epic last over between India and Pakistan here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan While Kohli rated his unbeaten 82 as the best knock of his career so far, India pulled off their highest successful run-chase against Pakistan in a T20I game. He helped India score 48 runs in the final three overs, which is the joint-most by any team in a run-chase in a T20 World Cup game. With his knock, Kohli also went past Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter in T20Is and will be hoping to continue his purple patch when India take on Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash on Thursday (October 27).

Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup

<p>The chase master was on top of his game as Virat Kohli pulled off one of the most memorable victories for India against their arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). Kohli looked in sublime touch as he delivered another chasing masterclass to snatch a famous victory from Pakistan's jaws in India's opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.</p>

<p>In pursuit of a challenging target of 161 runs, India were in a spot of bother after losing opener KL Rahul cheaply on 4 off 8 balls when Kohli arrived in the middle. India were soon left reeling on 26/3 after losing both Rohit Sharma (4) and Suryakumar Yadav (15) in quick succession as Kohli took his time in settling down at the other end.</p>

<p>Axar Patel too soon followed suit as India were reduced to 31/4 and appeared in deep trouble before Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship. The duo put on a brilliant stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket but Pandya struggled to play the big shots leaving Kohli with an uphill task.</p>

<p>However, the chase master as he is known for his several match-winning performances in run-chases in the past, was up for the challenge. Kohli shifted gears seamlessly in the death overs and played some sensational strokes all around the park to keep India in the game till the very last ball.</p>

<p>With 16 runs required off the final over, India lost Hardik on the very first delivery and managed only three runs off the next two balls. Kohli then played a stunning shot to slam a six off Mohammad Nawaz to bring the equation in India's favour. However, luck favoured the brave as the fourth delivery from Nawaz was deemed a no-ball.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2022-virat-kohlis-stunning-knock-helps-india-beat-pakistan-in-dramatic-last-ball-thriller-527776">Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller</a></p>

<p>Kohli was bowled on the ree-hit delivery but ran three in byes as the equation came down to two needed off two. There was another twist in the tale as Pakistan managed to get rid of Dinesh Karthik on the penultimate ball before R Ashwin sealed the victory for India with a single off the final ball.</p>

<p>Kohli finished with 82 off 53 balls laced with four sixes and six fours, labelling the knock his greatest ever in T20IS for Team India. It was yet another chasing masterclass from one of the greatest ever to have graced the game. The Indian superstar was hailed by many on Twitter as they bowed down to the 'King' after his heroics under pressure.</p>

<p><strong>Twitter bows down to&nbsp;Virat Kohli after stunning 82 against Pakistan:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The King. This was his best. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kohli</a></p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1584153450463784961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli you are the king</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1584151757948846080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When the kingdom falls, the king rises… Take a bow King Kohli. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsPak</a> <a href="https://t.co/aDdOJwoZnU">pic.twitter.com/aDdOJwoZnU</a></p>
— Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) <a href="https://twitter.com/MishiAmit/status/1584151797953765379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yaayyyy…Happyyy Deepawali<br />
What an amazing game.High on emotions, but this is<br />
probably the most brilliant T20 Innings i have ever seen, take a bow Virat Kohli . Chak De India <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsPak</a> <a href="https://t.co/3TwVbYscpa">pic.twitter.com/3TwVbYscpa</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1584152083284254720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The KING is back<br />
<br />
Take a bow, Virat Kohli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/OdAnbmso0h">pic.twitter.com/OdAnbmso0h</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1584154001532239875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, it was undoubtedly the best innings of your life. It was a treat to watch you play, the six off the back foot in the 19th over against Rauf over long on was spectacular!<br />
Keep it going. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/FakWPrStMg">pic.twitter.com/FakWPrStMg</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1584159256567128064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They call him King Kohli for a reason.<br />
What a win, Team India! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/qWVgLKLROp">pic.twitter.com/qWVgLKLROp</a></p>
— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1/status/1584157975669018630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli was not at his usual best right from the word go and took his time in settling down but once he got a hang of the conditions and the pitch, there was no stopping the chase master. He had scored only 11 runs off the first 20 balls he faced but ended up getting 71 off the next 33 to pull India through in the last-ball humdinger.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-it-was-meant-to-be-virat-kohli-after-india-pull-off-a-memorable-victory-over-pakistan-527780">'It was meant to be,' Virat Kohli after India pull off a memorable victory over Pakistan</a></p>

<p>The high-profile clash was always expected to be a thrilling affair but the incredibly dramatic finish comfortably places the game&nbsp;among the best matches between the arch-rivals. India and Kohli will now look to continue their phenomenal run in their next game against Netherlands on Thursday (October 27).</p>


The chase master was on top of his game as Virat Kohli pulled off one of the most memorable victories for India against their arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23).

The chase master was on top of his game as Virat Kohli pulled off one of the most memorable victories for India against their arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). Kohli looked in sublime touch as he delivered another chasing masterclass to snatch a famous victory from Pakistan's jaws in India's opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. In pursuit of a challenging target of 161 runs, India were in a spot of bother after losing opener KL Rahul cheaply on 4 off 8 balls when Kohli arrived in the middle. India were soon left reeling on 26/3 after losing both Rohit Sharma (4) and Suryakumar Yadav (15) in quick succession as Kohli took his time in settling down at the other end. Axar Patel too soon followed suit as India were reduced to 31/4 and appeared in deep trouble before Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship. The duo put on a brilliant stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket but Pandya struggled to play the big shots leaving Kohli with an uphill task. However, the chase master as he is known for his several match-winning performances in run-chases in the past, was up for the challenge. Kohli shifted gears seamlessly in the death overs and played some sensational strokes all around the park to keep India in the game till the very last ball. With 16 runs required off the final over, India lost Hardik on the very first delivery and managed only three runs off the next two balls. Kohli then played a stunning shot to slam a six off Mohammad Nawaz to bring the equation in India's favour. However, luck favoured the brave as the fourth delivery from Nawaz was deemed a no-ball. Also Read: Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller Kohli was bowled on the ree-hit delivery but ran three in byes as the equation came down to two needed off two. There was another twist in the tale as Pakistan managed to get rid of Dinesh Karthik on the penultimate ball before R Ashwin sealed the victory for India with a single off the final ball. Kohli finished with 82 off 53 balls laced with four sixes and six fours, labelling the knock his greatest ever in T20IS for Team India. It was yet another chasing masterclass from one of the greatest ever to have graced the game. The Indian superstar was hailed by many on Twitter as they bowed down to the 'King' after his heroics under pressure. Twitter bows down to Virat Kohli after stunning 82 against Pakistan: The King. This was his best. #Kohli — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 23, 2022 × Virat Kohli you are the king — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 23, 2022 × When the kingdom falls, the king rises… Take a bow King Kohli. #IndvsPak pic.twitter.com/aDdOJwoZnU — Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) October 23, 2022 × Yaayyyy…Happyyy Deepawali What an amazing game.High on emotions, but this is probably the most brilliant T20 Innings i have ever seen, take a bow Virat Kohli . Chak De India #IndvsPak pic.twitter.com/3TwVbYscpa — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 23, 2022 × The KING is back Take a bow, Virat Kohli #T20WorldCup | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/OdAnbmso0h — ICC (@ICC) October 23, 2022 × .@imVkohli, it was undoubtedly the best innings of your life. It was a treat to watch you play, the six off the back foot in the 19th over against Rauf over long on was spectacular! Keep it going. #INDvPAK #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/FakWPrStMg — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 23, 2022 × They call him King Kohli for a reason. What a win, Team India! #INDvsPAK2022 pic.twitter.com/qWVgLKLROp — Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) October 23, 2022 × Kohli was not at his usual best right from the word go and took his time in settling down but once he got a hang of the conditions and the pitch, there was no stopping the chase master. He had scored only 11 runs off the first 20 balls he faced but ended up getting 71 off the next 33 to pull India through in the last-ball humdinger. Also Read: 'It was meant to be,' Virat Kohli after India pull off a memorable victory over Pakistan The high-profile clash was always expected to be a thrilling affair but the incredibly dramatic finish comfortably places the game among the best matches between the arch-rivals. India and Kohli will now look to continue their phenomenal run in their next game against Netherlands on Thursday (October 27).

'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup

<p>Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal&nbsp;for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup.</p>

<p>The hype surrounding the marquee clash between the two arch-rivals is immense as they lock horns for only the third time this year. India and Pakistan met twice in the Asia Cup earlier this year where both teams managed to win a game each. India have lost twice in their last three meetings against their eternal rivals and revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. on Sunday.</p>

<p>Ahead of the marquee clash, Gambhir said India should treat the game as a stepping stone towards realising their ultimate dream of returning home as the new T20 World Cup winners. "Beating Pakistan is not the goal, it is just a step towards winning the cup," said Gambhir while speaking on Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-should-put-this-topic-to-rest-says-hardik-pandya-ahead-of-the-india-pak-clash-527719">'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of the India-Pak clash</a></p>

<p>Thousands of fans from around the world packed the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground ahead of the mother of all clashes between the two cricketing giants on Sunday. Tickets for the high-profile game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries would be hoping for a full game amid rain threat.</p>

<p>While Gambhir urged India to treat the clash against Pakistan as just another game to ensure they can continue focusing on the ultimate prize, he said the game will not be a one-sided affair as Babar Azam &amp; Co. have a quality pace attack which can wreck havoc on its day.</p>

<p>"I am not going to say it’s a one-sided game because Pakistan is a very strong bowling line-up. They probably have the best bowling line-up in this competition when it comes to seamers. They have got three quality pacers who can bowl 140-plus," said Gambhir.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-rohit-sharma-to-surpass-ms-dhoni-to-achieve-elite-record-during-india-pakistan-clash-527708">Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash</a></p>

<p>Pakistan's 10-wicket win against India in the&nbsp;meeting between the two teams at the T20 World Cup last year was the first time the Men in Green managed to get the better of their arch-rivals in a World Cup game. India lead 4-1 when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the T20 World Cup.</p>


Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup.

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup. The hype surrounding the marquee clash between the two arch-rivals is immense as they lock horns for only the third time this year. India and Pakistan met twice in the Asia Cup earlier this year where both teams managed to win a game each. India have lost twice in their last three meetings against their eternal rivals and revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma & Co. on Sunday. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gambhir said India should treat the game as a stepping stone towards realising their ultimate dream of returning home as the new T20 World Cup winners. "Beating Pakistan is not the goal, it is just a step towards winning the cup," said Gambhir while speaking on Star Sports. Also Read: 'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of the India-Pak clash Thousands of fans from around the world packed the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground ahead of the mother of all clashes between the two cricketing giants on Sunday. Tickets for the high-profile game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries would be hoping for a full game amid rain threat. While Gambhir urged India to treat the clash against Pakistan as just another game to ensure they can continue focusing on the ultimate prize, he said the game will not be a one-sided affair as Babar Azam & Co. have a quality pace attack which can wreck havoc on its day. "I am not going to say it’s a one-sided game because Pakistan is a very strong bowling line-up. They probably have the best bowling line-up in this competition when it comes to seamers. They have got three quality pacers who can bowl 140-plus," said Gambhir. Also Read: Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash Pakistan's 10-wicket win against India in the meeting between the two teams at the T20 World Cup last year was the first time the Men in Green managed to get the better of their arch-rivals in a World Cup game. India lead 4-1 when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the T20 World Cup.

Beating Pakistan not the goal, it's just a step for winning cup: Gautam Gambhir on marquee clash

<p>Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.</p>

<p>While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'.</p>

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field.</p>

<p>But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats.</p>

<p>It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-pacer-tim-southee-pips-shakib-al-hasan-to-become-leading-wicket-taker-in-t20is-527621">New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is</a></p>

<p>While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times.</p>

<p>And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'.</p>

<p>BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious.</p>

<p>India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India</p>

<p>This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet.</p>

<p>And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler.</p>

<p>The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form.</p>

<p>How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations.</p>

<p>But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy.</p>

<p>While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things.</p>

<p>But with three left-handers -&nbsp;Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation.</p>

<p>Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devon-conway-tim-southee-help-new-zealand-thrash-australia-by-89-runs-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527600">Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best.<br />
At the MCG after 37 years</p>

<p>It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson &amp; Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place.</p>

<p>That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG.</p>

<p>There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours.</p>

<p>No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'.</p>

<p><strong>Squads:</strong></p>

<p>India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda.</p>

<p>Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.</p>


Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday. While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field. But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats. It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts. Also Read: New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times. And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'. BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious. India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet. And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler. The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form. How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations. But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy. While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things. But with three left-handers - Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation. Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard. Also Read: Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022 On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best. At the MCG after 37 years It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson & Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place. That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG. There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours. No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda. Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.

Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash

<p>The ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already produced some enthralling encounters with some of the associate nations pulling off surprises in the qualifiers. The tournament is all set to get spicier with the Super 12 stage kicking off on Saturday (October 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (October 23) in what promises to be a blockbuster clash. Ahead of the start of India's campaign in the tournament, former India opener Virender Sehwag picked Pakistan skipper Babar Azam to finish as the highest run-getter in the tournament.</p>

<p>Babar has been one of the most prolific run-getters for Pakistan across formats and his form will be crucial to his team's chances at the World Cup. Sehwag said it feels great to watch Babar bat and that the Pakistan skipper can be the top run-getter at the World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-cant-dictate-how-pakistan-plays-cricket-wasim-akram-on-bcci-secretary-jay-shahs-asia-cup-statement-527340">India can't dictate how Pakistan plays cricket: Wasim Akram on BCCI secretary Jay Shah's Asia Cup statement</a></p>

<p>"Pakistan's Babar Azam. He is batting brilliantly. Feels great to watch him bat, just like you feel at peace while seeing Virat Kohli's batting. You feel happy watching Babar Azam bat," Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>Babar was in top-notch form for Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year and finished as the highest run-getter with 303 runs in six matches at an average of over 60 and a strike rate of 126. He played an instrumental role in Pakistan's run to the semi-final of the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-definitely-hurting-nicholas-pooran-after-west-indies-shocking-exit-from-t20-world-cup-2022-527360">It's definitely hurting: Nicholas Pooran after West Indies' shocking exit from T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>Babar will be seen in action next when Pakistan lock horns with arch-rivals&nbsp;India in their opening game of the T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 23). Pakistan have defeated India twice in the last three meetings between them and will be hoping to continue their good show on Sunday.</p>


The ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already produced some enthralling encounters with some of the associate nations pulling off surprises in the qualifiers.

The ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already produced some enthralling encounters with some of the associate nations pulling off surprises in the qualifiers. The tournament is all set to get spicier with the Super 12 stage kicking off on Saturday (October 22). Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (October 23) in what promises to be a blockbuster clash. Ahead of the start of India's campaign in the tournament, former India opener Virender Sehwag picked Pakistan skipper Babar Azam to finish as the highest run-getter in the tournament. Babar has been one of the most prolific run-getters for Pakistan across formats and his form will be crucial to his team's chances at the World Cup. Sehwag said it feels great to watch Babar bat and that the Pakistan skipper can be the top run-getter at the World Cup. Also Read: India can't dictate how Pakistan plays cricket: Wasim Akram on BCCI secretary Jay Shah's Asia Cup statement "Pakistan's Babar Azam. He is batting brilliantly. Feels great to watch him bat, just like you feel at peace while seeing Virat Kohli's batting. You feel happy watching Babar Azam bat," Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. Babar was in top-notch form for Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year and finished as the highest run-getter with 303 runs in six matches at an average of over 60 and a strike rate of 126. He played an instrumental role in Pakistan's run to the semi-final of the tournament. Also Read: It's definitely hurting: Nicholas Pooran after West Indies' shocking exit from T20 World Cup 2022 Babar will be seen in action next when Pakistan lock horns with arch-rivals India in their opening game of the T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 23). Pakistan have defeated India twice in the last three meetings between them and will be hoping to continue their good show on Sunday.

Virender Sehwag picks Pakistan star to finish as highest run-getter in T20 World Cup 2022

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah recently announced the Indian cricket team will not be travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 and the tournament will be shifted to a neutral venue. Ever since his statement, Shah, who is also the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), has been criticised by several former Pakistan cricketers.</p>

<p>Shah's comments came after BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday where it was decided that team India won't travel to Pakistan. India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket against each other since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations and have met only in major ICC competitions.</p>

<p>Reacting to Shah's comments, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made its displeasure known and also threatened to boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup which is scheduled to be played in India. Several former Pakistan cricketers have also urged the PCB to boycott the ODI World Cup next year as a mark of protest if India refuse&nbsp;to travel to Pakistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/travelling-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-not-boards-call-government-will-decide-bcci-chief-roger-binny-527160">Travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup not board's call, government will decide: BCCI chief Roger Binny</a></p>

<p>In the wake of the controversy, legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has also hit back at Shah for his comments and said India cannot dictate the way Pakistan wants to play their cricket. Akram said Shah should have held a meeting with the PCB and the board of the Asian Cricket Council before making a statement on the venue of the Asia Cup 2023.</p>

<p>"It was a brilliant statement from our cricket board. India can't dictate how Pakistan plays their cricket. Pakistan have started hosting teams after 10-15 years now. I'm an ex-cricketer, sportsperson, I don't know what's happening on the political front. But communication is important. If Jay Shah had to say something, he should have called the PCB chairman, there should have been a meeting of the Asian Cricket Council. He should have put forth his idea and there should have been a discussion,” Akram said on A-Sports.</p>

<p>“You can't just stand up and say we are not travelling when the Asian Cricket Council awarded the hosting rights to Pakistan.That's not fair,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-stirling-stars-as-ireland-knock-out-two-time-champions-west-indies-from-t20-world-cup-2022-527329">Paul Stirling stars as Ireland knock out two-time champions West Indies from T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>Shah's comments came days ahead of the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. The arch-rivals are set to lock horns in their respective openers at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCC) on October 23 in what promises to be a nail-biter.</p>

<p>This is not the first time Asia Cup will be shifted to a neutral venue from its original venue. In 2018, India were the hosts but the tournament was moved to the UAE due to political reasons Earlier this year, the tournament was shifted from Sri Lanka to UAE due to the economic crisis in the island nation.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah recently announced the Indian cricket team will not be travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 and the tournament will be shifted to a neutral venue.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah recently announced the Indian cricket team will not be travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 and the tournament will be shifted to a neutral venue. Ever since his statement, Shah, who is also the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), has been criticised by several former Pakistan cricketers. Shah's comments came after BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday where it was decided that team India won't travel to Pakistan. India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket against each other since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations and have met only in major ICC competitions. Reacting to Shah's comments, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made its displeasure known and also threatened to boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup which is scheduled to be played in India. Several former Pakistan cricketers have also urged the PCB to boycott the ODI World Cup next year as a mark of protest if India refuse to travel to Pakistan. Also Read: Travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup not board's call, government will decide: BCCI chief Roger Binny In the wake of the controversy, legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has also hit back at Shah for his comments and said India cannot dictate the way Pakistan wants to play their cricket. Akram said Shah should have held a meeting with the PCB and the board of the Asian Cricket Council before making a statement on the venue of the Asia Cup 2023. "It was a brilliant statement from our cricket board. India can't dictate how Pakistan plays their cricket. Pakistan have started hosting teams after 10-15 years now. I'm an ex-cricketer, sportsperson, I don't know what's happening on the political front. But communication is important. If Jay Shah had to say something, he should have called the PCB chairman, there should have been a meeting of the Asian Cricket Council. He should have put forth his idea and there should have been a discussion,” Akram said on A-Sports. “You can't just stand up and say we are not travelling when the Asian Cricket Council awarded the hosting rights to Pakistan.That's not fair,” he added. Also Read: Paul Stirling stars as Ireland knock out two-time champions West Indies from T20 World Cup 2022 Shah's comments came days ahead of the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. The arch-rivals are set to lock horns in their respective openers at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCC) on October 23 in what promises to be a nail-biter. This is not the first time Asia Cup will be shifted to a neutral venue from its original venue. In 2018, India were the hosts but the tournament was moved to the UAE due to political reasons Earlier this year, the tournament was shifted from Sri Lanka to UAE due to the economic crisis in the island nation.

India can't dictate how Pakistan plays cricket: Wasim Akram on BCCI secretary Jay Shah's Asia Cup statement

<p>Jay Shah's revelation on the Asia Cup 2023 edition has sparked a huge controversy. After BCCI'S Annual General Meeting (AGM), on Tuesday (October 18) in Mumbai, Shah commenced his second innings as the board's secretary whereas Roger Binny succeeded Sourav Ganguly to become the new chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the AGM, Shah -- who is also Asian Cricket Council's (ACC) -- revealed that the next year's Asia Cup won't be held in Pakistan as India can't travel to the neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both nations. Hence, he confirmed that a neutral venue will once again host the Asia Cup, as was the case during this year's edition (held in the UAE with eventful winners Sri Lanka as hosts).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since then, Pakistan's former cricketers and even their board PCB have strongly reacted to the ACC chief's claims. Now, veteran keeper-batter Kamran Akmal also joined the bandwagon and has even suggested Team Pakistan to boycott India at all levels, including the upcoming T20 World Cup clash on October 23 (Sunday) at the MCG, Melbourne.</p>

<p>“I believe Jay Shah’s statement was unexpected, and since he attended the Pakistan-India game during this year’s Asia Cup, he should reserve politics for his opposition and avoid dragging it into sports,” Kamran told ARY news.</p>

<p>He added, "Asia Cup should only be hosted in Pakistan and if that does not happen then Pakistan should not play against India at any level, be it ICC events’ matches, Asia Cup matches, or even their match on October 23."</p>

<p>PCB responds to ACC President's statement:</p>

<p>“The PCB has noted with surprise and disappointment of yesterday’s comments made by the ACC President Mr Jay Shah with regards to shifting of next year’s Asia Cup to a neutral venue. The comments were made without any discussion or consultation with the Board of the Asian Cricket Council or the Pakistan Cricket Board (event host) and without any thoughts towards their long-term consequences and implications."</p>

<p>"After having presided over the ACC meeting during which Pakistan was awarded the ACC Asia Cup with an overwhelming support and response from the ACC Board Members, Mr Shah’s statement of shifting of the ACC Asia Cup has clearly been made unilaterally. This is contrary to the philosophy and spirit for which the Asian Cricket Council was formed in September 1983 – a united Asian cricket body to safeguard the interests of the its Members and organise, develop, and promote the game of cricket in Asia."</p>

<p>The statement added, "The overall impact of such statements have the potential to split the Asian and international cricketing communities, and can impact Pakistan’s visit to India for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 and future ICC Events in India in the 2024-2031 cycle.</p>

<p>“The PCB has to date not received any official communication or clarification from the ACC on the statement of the ACC President. As such, the PCB has now requested the Asian Cricket Council to convene an emergency meeting of its Board as soon as practically possible to discuss this important and sensitive matter.”</p>

<p>As of now, a venue for Asia Cup 2023 edition is expected to be finalised in the near future whereas India are set to host next year's ODJ World Cup. However, Pakistan's participation is doubtful following PCB's reaction.&nbsp;</p>


Jay Shah's revelation on the Asia Cup 2023 edition has sparked a huge controversy. After BCCI'S Annual General Meeting (AGM), on Tuesday (October 18) in Mumbai, Shah commenced his second innings as the board's secretary whereas Roger Binny succeeded Sourav Ganguly to become the new chief.

Jay Shah's revelation on the Asia Cup 2023 edition has sparked a huge controversy. After BCCI'S Annual General Meeting (AGM), on Tuesday (October 18) in Mumbai, Shah commenced his second innings as the board's secretary whereas Roger Binny succeeded Sourav Ganguly to become the new chief. After the AGM, Shah -- who is also Asian Cricket Council's (ACC) -- revealed that the next year's Asia Cup won't be held in Pakistan as India can't travel to the neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both nations. Hence, he confirmed that a neutral venue will once again host the Asia Cup, as was the case during this year's edition (held in the UAE with eventful winners Sri Lanka as hosts). Since then, Pakistan's former cricketers and even their board PCB have strongly reacted to the ACC chief's claims. Now, veteran keeper-batter Kamran Akmal also joined the bandwagon and has even suggested Team Pakistan to boycott India at all levels, including the upcoming T20 World Cup clash on October 23 (Sunday) at the MCG, Melbourne. “I believe Jay Shah’s statement was unexpected, and since he attended the Pakistan-India game during this year’s Asia Cup, he should reserve politics for his opposition and avoid dragging it into sports,” Kamran told ARY news. He added, "Asia Cup should only be hosted in Pakistan and if that does not happen then Pakistan should not play against India at any level, be it ICC events’ matches, Asia Cup matches, or even their match on October 23." PCB responds to ACC President's statement: “The PCB has noted with surprise and disappointment of yesterday’s comments made by the ACC President Mr Jay Shah with regards to shifting of next year’s Asia Cup to a neutral venue. The comments were made without any discussion or consultation with the Board of the Asian Cricket Council or the Pakistan Cricket Board (event host) and without any thoughts towards their long-term consequences and implications." "After having presided over the ACC meeting during which Pakistan was awarded the ACC Asia Cup with an overwhelming support and response from the ACC Board Members, Mr Shah’s statement of shifting of the ACC Asia Cup has clearly been made unilaterally. This is contrary to the philosophy and spirit for which the Asian Cricket Council was formed in September 1983 – a united Asian cricket body to safeguard the interests of the its Members and organise, develop, and promote the game of cricket in Asia." The statement added, "The overall impact of such statements have the potential to split the Asian and international cricketing communities, and can impact Pakistan’s visit to India for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 and future ICC Events in India in the 2024-2031 cycle. “The PCB has to date not received any official communication or clarification from the ACC on the statement of the ACC President. As such, the PCB has now requested the Asian Cricket Council to convene an emergency meeting of its Board as soon as practically possible to discuss this important and sensitive matter.” As of now, a venue for Asia Cup 2023 edition is expected to be finalised in the near future whereas India are set to host next year's ODJ World Cup. However, Pakistan's participation is doubtful following PCB's reaction.

Amid BCCI vs PCB for Asia Cup, Kamran Akmal calls for Pakistan to boycott T20 World Cup clash vs India

From epic bowl-out to 2021's one-sided tie: Reliving T20 World Cup clashes between India and Pakistan

<p>The T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already seen a couple of major upsets with Namibia and Ireland defeating Sri Lanka and West Indies in their respective opening matches. Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka on the opening day of the tournament before Ireland got the better of two-time champions West Indies in the qualifiers on Monday.</p>

<p>Four out of the eight teams battling it out in the qualifiers will join the top eight sides in the Super 12 stage which will get underway on October 22. Ahead of the start of the Super 12 phase, the legendary Sachin Tendulkar predicted the four semi-finalists of the competition.</p>

<p>Indian cricket legend Tendulkar believes both India and Pakistan will make it to the semis along with defending champions Australia and favourites England. All four teams are major contenders to lift the title considering the quality they have in their ranks.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-wont-tour-pakistan-for-2023-asia-cup-tournament-to-be-held-at-neutral-venue-acc-chief-jay-shah-526444">India won't tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, tournament to be held at neutral venue: ACC chief Jay Shah</a></p>

<p>"India and Pakistan from our group. But I will pick South Africa as a dark horse as the conditions will mirror those that they are used to in October and November. In the other group, I expect Australia and England to qualify with New Zealand being the dark horse,” Tendulkar was quoted as saying in an interview with Times of India.</p>

<p>While India, Pakistan and South Africa are all part of Group 2 in the Super 12, Australia and England are in&nbsp;Group 1. India will open their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 and will be looking to get off to a winning start.</p>

<p>India have faced two defeats in their last three&nbsp;meetings against Pakistan and will be aiming for a turnaround this year. India were comprehensively thrashed by ten wickets when they locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-approves-womens-ipl-first-edition-to-be-staged-in-2023-526462">BCCI approves women's IPL, first edition to be staged in 2023</a></p>

<p>Tendulkar also spoke about India's star batter Suryakumar Yadav, who has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow and has been touted by many as one of the players to watch out for in the tournament this year. The India legend said the team management's confidence in him and the assurance over his spot in the team has worked in the batter's favour.</p>

<p>"Confidence and appreciation. There is no better tonic than being encouraged and appreciated. It's just that he is doing it more consistently now. Success and appreciation have also changed him as a person. He plays so confidently today because he knows he need not worry about getting picked,” Sachin said about Suryakumar.</p>


The T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already seen a couple of major upsets with Namibia and Ireland defeating Sri Lanka and West Indies in their respective opening matches.

The T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia has already seen a couple of major upsets with Namibia and Ireland defeating Sri Lanka and West Indies in their respective opening matches. Namibia stunned Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka on the opening day of the tournament before Ireland got the better of two-time champions West Indies in the qualifiers on Monday. Four out of the eight teams battling it out in the qualifiers will join the top eight sides in the Super 12 stage which will get underway on October 22. Ahead of the start of the Super 12 phase, the legendary Sachin Tendulkar predicted the four semi-finalists of the competition. Indian cricket legend Tendulkar believes both India and Pakistan will make it to the semis along with defending champions Australia and favourites England. All four teams are major contenders to lift the title considering the quality they have in their ranks. Also Read: India won't tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, tournament to be held at neutral venue: ACC chief Jay Shah "India and Pakistan from our group. But I will pick South Africa as a dark horse as the conditions will mirror those that they are used to in October and November. In the other group, I expect Australia and England to qualify with New Zealand being the dark horse,” Tendulkar was quoted as saying in an interview with Times of India. While India, Pakistan and South Africa are all part of Group 2 in the Super 12, Australia and England are in Group 1. India will open their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 and will be looking to get off to a winning start. India have faced two defeats in their last three meetings against Pakistan and will be aiming for a turnaround this year. India were comprehensively thrashed by ten wickets when they locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup last year. Also Read: BCCI approves women's IPL, first edition to be staged in 2023 Tendulkar also spoke about India's star batter Suryakumar Yadav, who has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow and has been touted by many as one of the players to watch out for in the tournament this year. The India legend said the team management's confidence in him and the assurance over his spot in the team has worked in the batter's favour. "Confidence and appreciation. There is no better tonic than being encouraged and appreciated. It's just that he is doing it more consistently now. Success and appreciation have also changed him as a person. He plays so confidently today because he knows he need not worry about getting picked,” Sachin said about Suryakumar.

Sachin Tendulkar predicts semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2022, includes India and Pakistan

<p>India and Pakistan are set to lock horns with each other in the main draw of the T20 World Cup, which commences on October 22. The Asian giants will square off on October 23 (Sunday) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. The clash is expected to go down to the wire especially after both sides produced two thrilling contests in the Asia Cup 2022 edition.</p>

<p>In the 2021 T20 World Cup, India and Pakistan were placed in the same group as well (i.e. Pool B). Both sides played each other in their respective opening games in the Super 12 round, where Babar Azam-led Men in Green produced a clinical performance to thrash India by ten wickets. Opting to bowl first, Pakistan rode on Shaheen Afridi's 3 for 31 and Haris Rauf's two-fer to restrict Virat Kohli-led India to 151 for 7 in 20 overs. In reply, Pakistan openers Mohammed Rizwan (79 not out) and skipper Babar (68 not out) stitched a memorable 152-run first-wicket stand as the one-time winners chased down the total with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, skipper Virat was left baffled by a question from a reporter, who suggested him to have played Ishan Kishan for Rohit Sharma. Ishan had a good run in the warm-up encounter, versus England (scoring a 46-ball 70), but there was no question on Rohit's spot whatsoever. Hence, Kohli was left speechless for a while before he reacted calmly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-jasprit-bumrah-star-players-who-are-not-part-of-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-526133"><strong>From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: Star players who are not part of India's T20 World Cup squad</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Question:</strong>&nbsp;Regarding the selection of the team, many people were talking. Ishan Kishan played pretty well in the warm-up match. Do you think that it's a mistake if Ishan Kishan, could play and he could do better than Rohit Sharma?</p>

<p><strong>Virat Kohli:</strong>&nbsp;That's a very brave question. What do you think, sir? I played the team that I thought was the best. What is your opinion? Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 international? Will you drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game we played? Unbelievable (laughs). Sir, if you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," he added.</p>

<p>Rohit was dismissed by Shaheen for a golden duck in the India-Pakistan encounter in the 2021 T20 WC. India went onto lose to New Zealand in their next game, where Ishan was roped in and played as an opener with Rohit at No. 3, before winning their last three encounters. Eventually, India bowed out of the showpiece event in the Super 12 round.</p>

<p>This time around, Rohit-led India will enter the T20 WC 2022 edition as the No. 1 ranked side and are expected to reach the semi-finals.</p>


India and Pakistan are set to lock horns with each other in the main draw of the T20 World Cup, which commences on October 22. The Asian giants will square off on October 23 (Sunday) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns with each other in the main draw of the T20 World Cup, which commences on October 22. The Asian giants will square off on October 23 (Sunday) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. The clash is expected to go down to the wire especially after both sides produced two thrilling contests in the Asia Cup 2022 edition. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, India and Pakistan were placed in the same group as well (i.e. Pool B). Both sides played each other in their respective opening games in the Super 12 round, where Babar Azam-led Men in Green produced a clinical performance to thrash India by ten wickets. Opting to bowl first, Pakistan rode on Shaheen Afridi's 3 for 31 and Haris Rauf's two-fer to restrict Virat Kohli-led India to 151 for 7 in 20 overs. In reply, Pakistan openers Mohammed Rizwan (79 not out) and skipper Babar (68 not out) stitched a memorable 152-run first-wicket stand as the one-time winners chased down the total with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After the match, skipper Virat was left baffled by a question from a reporter, who suggested him to have played Ishan Kishan for Rohit Sharma. Ishan had a good run in the warm-up encounter, versus England (scoring a 46-ball 70), but there was no question on Rohit's spot whatsoever. Hence, Kohli was left speechless for a while before he reacted calmly. ALSO READ | From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: Star players who are not part of India's T20 World Cup squad Question: Regarding the selection of the team, many people were talking. Ishan Kishan played pretty well in the warm-up match. Do you think that it's a mistake if Ishan Kishan, could play and he could do better than Rohit Sharma? Virat Kohli: That's a very brave question. What do you think, sir? I played the team that I thought was the best. What is your opinion? Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 international? Will you drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game we played? Unbelievable (laughs). Sir, if you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," he added. Rohit was dismissed by Shaheen for a golden duck in the India-Pakistan encounter in the 2021 T20 WC. India went onto lose to New Zealand in their next game, where Ishan was roped in and played as an opener with Rohit at No. 3, before winning their last three encounters. Eventually, India bowed out of the showpiece event in the Super 12 round. This time around, Rohit-led India will enter the T20 WC 2022 edition as the No. 1 ranked side and are expected to reach the semi-finals.

THROWBACK: When Kohli slammed reporter who questioned Rohit's spot after India's T20 WC loss to Pak

<p>Captains of all 16 teams taking part in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 shared the stage in Melbourne on Saturday as they addressed the press ahead of the start of the showpiece event down under. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was under the spotlight along with Pakistan captain Babar Azam as the duo responded to several questions on the much-anticipated marquee clash between the arch-rivals on October 23.</p>

<p>India will lock horns with eternal rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2022 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne. The hype surrounding the clash is at an all-time high and the tickets were sold out within minutes of being available.</p>

<p>India have enjoyed unprecedented success against Pakistan when it comes to World Cup meetings, however, the Men in Blue suffered their first-ever defeat against the arch-rivals in a World Cup game in the T20 World Cup last year. Pakistan have now defeated India twice in their last three meetings to enjoy an edge over the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>Despite the intense rivalry shared by the two teams, the players from both sides continue to share a cordial relationship with each other. Pictures and videos of the India and Pakistan players catching up ahead of their clash in the Asia Cup 2022 had gone viral on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rohit-sharma-superstar-batters-who-could-be-playing-their-last-t20-world-cup-525457">From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma: Superstar batters who could be playing their last T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>Indian skipper Rohit was asked about the&nbsp;camaraderie between the India and Pakistan players during the captain's meet on Saturday. Rohit said the players casually chat about their families and cars among other things when they meet off the pitch.</p>

<p>"We understand the importance of the game (India vs Pakistan). But there is no point in talking about it all the time and creating that pressure within yourself," Rohit said on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Whenever we (India and Pakistan) players meet, when we met at the Asia Cup, we talk about our families, ask about what's happening in our homes. That's all. From the interactions that I have had with Babar's teammates, we talk about such stuff only.</p>

<p>"Even the players from the previous generation have told us that the conversations were all about home, life and sometimes even about who's getting a new car and what car," added the Indian skipper.</p>

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<p>India and Pakistan will be looking forward to producing yet another blockbuster encounter when they lock horns in the T20 World Cup 2022 at the MCG on October 23. India have lost only once against Pakistan in a total of six meetings in the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India will be without their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the game, Pakistan have received a major boost ahead of the high-profile game as left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been deemed fit to play against India.</p>


Captains of all 16 teams taking part in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 shared the stage in Melbourne on Saturday as they addressed the press ahead of the start of the showpiece event down under.

Captains of all 16 teams taking part in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 shared the stage in Melbourne on Saturday as they addressed the press ahead of the start of the showpiece event down under. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was under the spotlight along with Pakistan captain Babar Azam as the duo responded to several questions on the much-anticipated marquee clash between the arch-rivals on October 23. India will lock horns with eternal rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2022 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne. The hype surrounding the clash is at an all-time high and the tickets were sold out within minutes of being available. India have enjoyed unprecedented success against Pakistan when it comes to World Cup meetings, however, the Men in Blue suffered their first-ever defeat against the arch-rivals in a World Cup game in the T20 World Cup last year. Pakistan have now defeated India twice in their last three meetings to enjoy an edge over the Men in Blue. Despite the intense rivalry shared by the two teams, the players from both sides continue to share a cordial relationship with each other. Pictures and videos of the India and Pakistan players catching up ahead of their clash in the Asia Cup 2022 had gone viral on social media. Also Read: From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma: Superstar batters who could be playing their last T20 World Cup Indian skipper Rohit was asked about the camaraderie between the India and Pakistan players during the captain's meet on Saturday. Rohit said the players casually chat about their families and cars among other things when they meet off the pitch. "We understand the importance of the game (India vs Pakistan). But there is no point in talking about it all the time and creating that pressure within yourself," Rohit said on Saturday. "Whenever we (India and Pakistan) players meet, when we met at the Asia Cup, we talk about our families, ask about what's happening in our homes. That's all. From the interactions that I have had with Babar's teammates, we talk about such stuff only. "Even the players from the previous generation have told us that the conversations were all about home, life and sometimes even about who's getting a new car and what car," added the Indian skipper. Also Read: BCCI could lose BIG if central govt sticks to decision of increasing tax outlay for 2023 ODI World Cup India and Pakistan will be looking forward to producing yet another blockbuster encounter when they lock horns in the T20 World Cup 2022 at the MCG on October 23. India have lost only once against Pakistan in a total of six meetings in the T20 World Cup. While India will be without their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the game, Pakistan have received a major boost ahead of the high-profile game as left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been deemed fit to play against India.

'We talk about our families, cars': India captain Rohit Sharma opens up on camaraderie with Pakistan players

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma: Superstar batters who could be playing their last T20 World Cup

<p>When Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, in Australia, Shoaib Malik's name had no mention. The veteran all-rounder, who captained Pakistan in the inaugural edition in 2007, has played most T20Is for the Men in Green and is a huge name in franchise world to date.</p>

<p>Given Babar Azam &amp; Co.'s middle-order issues, which led them to lose the Asia Cup 2022 final and the home T20Is versus England, many expected Malik to be a part of the squad. His vast experience and understanding of the format would've helped Pakistan. It is to be noted that he was part of their squad in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where he slammed an impressive 18-ball 54 versus Scotland. Nonetheless, he last played for the national side in November 2021 and remains out of the team for the marquee event as well.</p>

<p>Following his T20 WC snub, the 40-year-old Malik finally broke his silence and said on <em>Samaa TV</em>, "Dekhiye mera kaam hain cricket khelna jaha pe bhi mujhe opportunity mile. Select karna, na karna woh team management, selection committee ya PCB ka hain. Mera hain ki jaha opportunity mile main woh avail karne ki koshish karu and acha perform karne ki koshish karu. Mujhe kisise koi problem nehi hain. Main kisike koi against nehi hu kyumki positive rehna has been a major reason behind the success in my career&nbsp;(See, my job is to play cricket wherever I am presented with opportunities. To select me is solely on the team management selection committee and the PCB. I am to do well whenever given a chance and don't have any problems with anybody. I am not against anybody because remaining positive has been a major reason behind my success)."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-visit-to-pakistan-for-2023-asia-cup-subject-to-govt-clearance-on-bccis-agenda-report-525357"><strong>India's visit to Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, subject to govt clearance, on BCCI's agenda: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Malik further opened up on his equation with captain Babar and said, "We have been in touch consistently. Yes, earlier we used to talk more, but now he is a skipper and one should give him that space. Main khud iss cheez se guzra hu. Isiliye maine aajtak koi pressure nehi dala na kabhi dalunga na kabhi convince karne ki koshish karunga (I've gone through all this myself. Hence, I won't pressurise him or anyone or convince them to select me)."</p>

<p>On Friday (October 14), Pakistan won the New Zealand T20I tri-series and will now play two warm-up games ahead of their T20 WC 2022 opening clash, where they face India on October 23 at the MCG, Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>


When Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, in Australia, Shoaib Malik's name had no mention. The veteran all-rounder, who captained Pakistan in the inaugural edition in 2007, has played most T20Is for the Men in Green and is a huge name in franchise world to date.

When Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 edition, in Australia, Shoaib Malik's name had no mention. The veteran all-rounder, who captained Pakistan in the inaugural edition in 2007, has played most T20Is for the Men in Green and is a huge name in franchise world to date. Given Babar Azam & Co.'s middle-order issues, which led them to lose the Asia Cup 2022 final and the home T20Is versus England, many expected Malik to be a part of the squad. His vast experience and understanding of the format would've helped Pakistan. It is to be noted that he was part of their squad in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where he slammed an impressive 18-ball 54 versus Scotland. Nonetheless, he last played for the national side in November 2021 and remains out of the team for the marquee event as well. Following his T20 WC snub, the 40-year-old Malik finally broke his silence and said on Samaa TV, "Dekhiye mera kaam hain cricket khelna jaha pe bhi mujhe opportunity mile. Select karna, na karna woh team management, selection committee ya PCB ka hain. Mera hain ki jaha opportunity mile main woh avail karne ki koshish karu and acha perform karne ki koshish karu. Mujhe kisise koi problem nehi hain. Main kisike koi against nehi hu kyumki positive rehna has been a major reason behind the success in my career (See, my job is to play cricket wherever I am presented with opportunities. To select me is solely on the team management selection committee and the PCB. I am to do well whenever given a chance and don't have any problems with anybody. I am not against anybody because remaining positive has been a major reason behind my success)." ALSO READ | India's visit to Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, subject to govt clearance, on BCCI's agenda: Report Malik further opened up on his equation with captain Babar and said, "We have been in touch consistently. Yes, earlier we used to talk more, but now he is a skipper and one should give him that space. Main khud iss cheez se guzra hu. Isiliye maine aajtak koi pressure nehi dala na kabhi dalunga na kabhi convince karne ki koshish karunga (I've gone through all this myself. Hence, I won't pressurise him or anyone or convince them to select me)." On Friday (October 14), Pakistan won the New Zealand T20I tri-series and will now play two warm-up games ahead of their T20 WC 2022 opening clash, where they face India on October 23 at the MCG, Melbourne.

Won't pressurise Babar Azam: Shoaib Malik on T20 WC snub, says 'don’t have problems with anybody'

<p>Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Bangladesh in the last group stage encounter of the ongoing T20I tri-series in New Zealand on Thursday (October 13). With both Pakistan and hosts New Zealand set to lock horns in the summit clash on Friday (October 14), the Men in Green aimed to finish off the group stage on a high and managed to do that with a convincing seven-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers at the&nbsp;Hagley Oval, Christchurch.</p>

<p>During the clash, skipper Babar Azam impressed with a 40-ball 55, laced with nine fours, to play a key role in his side's big win. By virtue of his knock, the right-hander also broke former Indian captain Virat Kohli's record to become the fastest Asian batter to reach the 11,000-run club at the international level. Babar took 251 innings to reach the 11k-run club whereas Kohli achieved the feat in 261 innings.</p>

<p><strong>Fastest Asian batter to reach 11,000 runs in international cricket</strong></p>

<p><strong>Babar Azam 251 innings</strong></p>

<p>Virat Kohli 261 innings</p>

<p>Sunil Gavaskar 262 innings</p>

<p>Javed Miandad 266 innings</p>

<p>On the other hand, Babar also moved past Indian skipper Rohit Sharma in the list of batters most half-centuries in the format. Hitman has 28 fifties under his belt whereas the Pakistan captain slammed his 29th half-century during his side's win over their Asian neighbours.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-outgoing-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-finally-breaks-silence-as-roger-binny-set-to-succeed-him-525097"><strong>'I will...' - Outgoing BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally breaks silence as Roger Binny set to succeed him</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about the contest, Bangladesh opted to bat first after being knocked out of the race for the final. Riding on half-centuries from captain Shakib Al Hasan and Liton Das, they managed to post a competitive 173 for 6. However, it wasn't enough as Pakistan openers Md Rizwan (69) and Babar (55) stitched a 101-run opening stand before Mohammad Nawaz's 25-ball 40 took his side home on the penultimate ball of the contest.</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "Definitely happy, the team is playing very well, winning is always good. We didn't bowl well, made some basic mistakes, myself and Rizwan started well with Nawaz finishing it off. We will learn from this and think the middle-order stepping up is good for the team. We will have to field better though, that's one area where improvement is needed, we'll try to give our 100% in tomorrow's final."</p>


Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Bangladesh in the last group stage encounter of the ongoing T20I tri-series in New Zealand on Thursday (October 13). With both Pakistan and hosts New Zealand set to lock horns in the summit clash on Friday (October 14), the Men in Green aimed to finish off the group stage on a high and managed to do that with a convincing seven-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers at the Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan locked horns with Bangladesh in the last group stage encounter of the ongoing T20I tri-series in New Zealand on Thursday (October 13). With both Pakistan and hosts New Zealand set to lock horns in the summit clash on Friday (October 14), the Men in Green aimed to finish off the group stage on a high and managed to do that with a convincing seven-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers at the Hagley Oval, Christchurch. During the clash, skipper Babar Azam impressed with a 40-ball 55, laced with nine fours, to play a key role in his side's big win. By virtue of his knock, the right-hander also broke former Indian captain Virat Kohli's record to become the fastest Asian batter to reach the 11,000-run club at the international level. Babar took 251 innings to reach the 11k-run club whereas Kohli achieved the feat in 261 innings. Fastest Asian batter to reach 11,000 runs in international cricket Babar Azam 251 innings Virat Kohli 261 innings Sunil Gavaskar 262 innings Javed Miandad 266 innings On the other hand, Babar also moved past Indian skipper Rohit Sharma in the list of batters most half-centuries in the format. Hitman has 28 fifties under his belt whereas the Pakistan captain slammed his 29th half-century during his side's win over their Asian neighbours. ALSO READ | 'I will...' - Outgoing BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally breaks silence as Roger Binny set to succeed him Talking about the contest, Bangladesh opted to bat first after being knocked out of the race for the final. Riding on half-centuries from captain Shakib Al Hasan and Liton Das, they managed to post a competitive 173 for 6. However, it wasn't enough as Pakistan openers Md Rizwan (69) and Babar (55) stitched a 101-run opening stand before Mohammad Nawaz's 25-ball 40 took his side home on the penultimate ball of the contest. At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "Definitely happy, the team is playing very well, winning is always good. We didn't bowl well, made some basic mistakes, myself and Rizwan started well with Nawaz finishing it off. We will learn from this and think the middle-order stepping up is good for the team. We will have to field better though, that's one area where improvement is needed, we'll try to give our 100% in tomorrow's final."

NZ T20I tri-series: Babar breaks Kohli's record, becomes fastest Asian batter to attain HISTORIC feat

<p>Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has slammed Babar Azam asking him to come out of his average mindset. Afridi was not happy with Babar's timid approach during Pakistan's recent clash against Bangladesh in the ongoing tri-series in New Zealand.</p>

<p>Afridi's comments came in response to Babar's views ahead of Pakistan's game against Bangladesh in Christchurch. When asked about what kind of target they were looking to set for Bangladesh, Babar had said the Men in Green were looking at something close to 160.</p>

<p>Pakistan went on to post 167 runs on the board batting first and ended up winning the game comfortably by 21 runs. However, Babar's comments didn't go down well with Afridi, who has advised the Pakistan skipper to ditch his timid approach in T20Is and look at setting up big totals against all kinds of teams.</p>

<p>"Babar must come out of this average mindset and think big. If scoring 160 runs for the target against Bangladesh was his big intent, then what is he going to do against stronger teams," said Afridi.</p>

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<p>While he criticised Babar for his approach, Afridi extended support to his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan, who has also been facing criticism from all corners over his sluggish approach with the bat. Both Babar and Rizwan have been slammed by many for failing to accelerate quickly as a result of which the team suffers when setting up targets.</p>

<p>However, Afridi urged Rizwan to continue playing the way he has been and ignore the critics. Rizwan is currently the top-ranked T20 batter in the world and has been a consistent run-getter for Pakistan in the shortest format.</p>

<p>"The actual thing is the beginning. Babar and Rizwan should score the chunk of runs [for other batters]. Rizwan shouldn't listen to anyone," said Afridi.</p>

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<p>Pakistan will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of the ongoing T20I tri-series on October 14 before leaving for Australia for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. The Men in Green will begin their campaign against arch-rivals India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on October 23.</p>


Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has slammed Babar Azam asking him to come out of his average mindset. Afridi was not happy with Babar's timid approach during Pakistan's recent clash against Bangladesh in the ongoing tri-series in New Zealand.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has slammed Babar Azam asking him to come out of his average mindset. Afridi was not happy with Babar's timid approach during Pakistan's recent clash against Bangladesh in the ongoing tri-series in New Zealand. Afridi's comments came in response to Babar's views ahead of Pakistan's game against Bangladesh in Christchurch. When asked about what kind of target they were looking to set for Bangladesh, Babar had said the Men in Green were looking at something close to 160. Pakistan went on to post 167 runs on the board batting first and ended up winning the game comfortably by 21 runs. However, Babar's comments didn't go down well with Afridi, who has advised the Pakistan skipper to ditch his timid approach in T20Is and look at setting up big totals against all kinds of teams. "Babar must come out of this average mindset and think big. If scoring 160 runs for the target against Bangladesh was his big intent, then what is he going to do against stronger teams," said Afridi. Also Read: WATCH: Ben Stokes pulls off a BLINDER, saves a certain six in Australia-England 2nd T20I While he criticised Babar for his approach, Afridi extended support to his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan, who has also been facing criticism from all corners over his sluggish approach with the bat. Both Babar and Rizwan have been slammed by many for failing to accelerate quickly as a result of which the team suffers when setting up targets. However, Afridi urged Rizwan to continue playing the way he has been and ignore the critics. Rizwan is currently the top-ranked T20 batter in the world and has been a consistent run-getter for Pakistan in the shortest format. "The actual thing is the beginning. Babar and Rizwan should score the chunk of runs [for other batters]. Rizwan shouldn't listen to anyone," said Afridi. Also Read: Former Australia cricketer Michael Slater back in rehab after facing multiple assault charges Pakistan will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of the ongoing T20I tri-series on October 14 before leaving for Australia for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. The Men in Green will begin their campaign against arch-rivals India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on October 23.

'Babar Azam must come out of this average mindset': Shahid Afridi slams Pakistan captain's timid approach

<p>Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja has admitted the Indian team remains far ahead in skill level compared to Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Pakistan have managed to outclass their arch-rivals twice in their last three meetings but Raja admitted India are still ahead of Pakistan in terms of quality.</p>

<p>Pakistan defeated India by ten wickets to bring an end to their losing streak against their arch-rivals in World Cup matches last year. The Men in Green had comprehensively defeated India in their opening encounter at the T20 World Cup 2021 to record their first-ever victory against the Men in Blue in a World Cup game.</p>

<p>Pakistan and India then met twice in the Asia Cup 2022earlier this year where both teams managed to bag one win each. Raja said Babar &amp; Co. deserve the credit to have beaten India twice in their last three meetings as defeating the Men in Blue was always considered a mental block for Pakistan.</p>

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<p>“Pehle toh India ke against jo jeete hain ham, bade arsey ke baad hua hai. Iss team ki tareef karni chahiye. Skill ki baat thi, Indians skill level me hamse bahut aage hain, abhi bhi batting me aage hain. Magar ek mental block tha jisko clear karna tha. Aur vo kiya iss team ne ek young captain ke under. (It's after a long time that we won against India. We should be lauding this team. Indians are far ahead in skill level than us, especially in batting. But it was important to clear that mental block and this team did that under a young captain)," Raja said while speaking on Pakistan channel Samaa TV.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan have not taken part in a bilateral series for nearly a decade now as the two teams only meet in major ICC competitions due to the political tensions between the two countries. India and Pakistan will resume their epic rivalry in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 which gets underway in Australia on October 16.</p>

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<p>India and Pakistan are set to lock horns against each other in a blockbuster clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on October 23. Pakistan are currently taking part in a&nbsp;T20I tri-series involving New Zealand and Bangladesh while India are already in Australia to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.</p>


Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja has admitted the Indian team remains far ahead in skill level compared to Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Pakistan have managed to outclass their arch-rivals twice in their last three meetings but Raja admitted India are still ahead of Pakistan in terms of quality.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja has admitted the Indian team remains far ahead in skill level compared to Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Pakistan have managed to outclass their arch-rivals twice in their last three meetings but Raja admitted India are still ahead of Pakistan in terms of quality. Pakistan defeated India by ten wickets to bring an end to their losing streak against their arch-rivals in World Cup matches last year. The Men in Green had comprehensively defeated India in their opening encounter at the T20 World Cup 2021 to record their first-ever victory against the Men in Blue in a World Cup game. Pakistan and India then met twice in the Asia Cup 2022earlier this year where both teams managed to bag one win each. Raja said Babar & Co. deserve the credit to have beaten India twice in their last three meetings as defeating the Men in Blue was always considered a mental block for Pakistan. Also Read: He could be India's version of AB de Villiers: Dale Steyn lauds Suryakumar Yadav ahead of T20 World Cup “Pehle toh India ke against jo jeete hain ham, bade arsey ke baad hua hai. Iss team ki tareef karni chahiye. Skill ki baat thi, Indians skill level me hamse bahut aage hain, abhi bhi batting me aage hain. Magar ek mental block tha jisko clear karna tha. Aur vo kiya iss team ne ek young captain ke under. (It's after a long time that we won against India. We should be lauding this team. Indians are far ahead in skill level than us, especially in batting. But it was important to clear that mental block and this team did that under a young captain)," Raja said while speaking on Pakistan channel Samaa TV. India and Pakistan have not taken part in a bilateral series for nearly a decade now as the two teams only meet in major ICC competitions due to the political tensions between the two countries. India and Pakistan will resume their epic rivalry in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 which gets underway in Australia on October 16. Also Read: Shardul Thakur, Md. Shami and Md. Siraj to leave for Australia; Deepak Chahar out of T20 World Cup - Report India and Pakistan are set to lock horns against each other in a blockbuster clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on October 23. Pakistan are currently taking part in a T20I tri-series involving New Zealand and Bangladesh while India are already in Australia to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

India are far ahead in skill level compared to Pakistan: PCB chief Ramiz Raja makes honest admission

<p>When the T20 World Cup commenced for the first time in 2007, not many had high hopes from the tournament. After the resounding success of the inaugural edition, held in South Africa, the shortest format has received humongous success all across the globe, helping in IPL's magnanimous rise over the years, and leading to the birth of many T20 leagues worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shortest format has led to the game's expansion and helped it reach various untapped territories. The format is such that the margin of error is very small and, thus, it becomes very tough for any side, irrespective of their ranking or overall stature, to dominate in the T20 WC. As a result, none of the teams have managed to defend their title whereas teams such as New Zealand and&nbsp;South Africa are yet to win their maiden title. Ahead of the eighth edition of the T20 WC, which will kick off on October 16 in Australia, <strong>here's a list of winners in the tournament history:</strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Year</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Winning team</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Captain</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2007</td>
			<td>India beat Pakistan by 5 runs</td>
			<td>MS Dhoni</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2009</td>
			<td>Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 8 wickets</td>
			<td>Younis Khan</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2010</td>
			<td>England beat Australia by 7 wickets</td>
			<td>Paul Collingwood</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2012</td>
			<td>West Indies beat Sri Lanka by 36 runs</td>
			<td>Daren Sammy</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2014</td>
			<td>Sri Lanka beat India by 6 wickets</td>
			<td>Lasith Malinga</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2016</td>
			<td>West Indies beat England by 4 wickets</td>
			<td>Daren Sammy</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2021</td>
			<td>Australia beat New Zealand by 8 wickets</td>
			<td>Aaron Finch</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

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<p>While defending the T20 WC title isn't easy by any means, Aussie captain Aaron Finch has promised the national side's fans that his team will give their all in the forthcoming edition. "The ICC T20 Men’s World Cup is going to be a great spectacle and a huge honour for us to defend the trophy in front of our home fans. There are so many great sides with the very best players in the world coming to Australia. It’s an amazing opportunity for Australian fans to see the world’s best.,” Finch stated in an official release. "We’ve felt the power of home crowd support at the 2015 One-Day Cricket World Cup and the Women’s ICC T20 World Cup last year. It will be great to have the whole country behind us and make it another World Cup to remember. We will surely try our best," he added.</p>

<p>Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool A. On the other hand, Pool B comprises India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Africa whereas four more teams will join the main draw of the event, two in each group, after the conclusion of the qualifying round.</p>


When the T20 World Cup commenced for the first time in 2007, not many had high hopes from the tournament. After the resounding success of the inaugural edition, held in South Africa, the shortest format has received humongous success all across the globe, helping in IPL's magnanimous rise over the years, and leading to the birth of many T20 leagues worldwide.

When the T20 World Cup commenced for the first time in 2007, not many had high hopes from the tournament. After the resounding success of the inaugural edition, held in South Africa, the shortest format has received humongous success all across the globe, helping in IPL's magnanimous rise over the years, and leading to the birth of many T20 leagues worldwide. The shortest format has led to the game's expansion and helped it reach various untapped territories. The format is such that the margin of error is very small and, thus, it becomes very tough for any side, irrespective of their ranking or overall stature, to dominate in the T20 WC. As a result, none of the teams have managed to defend their title whereas teams such as New Zealand and South Africa are yet to win their maiden title. Ahead of the eighth edition of the T20 WC, which will kick off on October 16 in Australia, here's a list of winners in the tournament history: Year Winning team Captain 2007 India beat Pakistan by 5 runs MS Dhoni 2009 Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 8 wickets Younis Khan 2010 England beat Australia by 7 wickets Paul Collingwood 2012 West Indies beat Sri Lanka by 36 runs Daren Sammy 2014 Sri Lanka beat India by 6 wickets Lasith Malinga 2016 West Indies beat England by 4 wickets Daren Sammy 2021 Australia beat New Zealand by 8 wickets Aaron Finch ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022, India's warm-up schedule: Squad, venues, timings, telecast - All you need to know While defending the T20 WC title isn't easy by any means, Aussie captain Aaron Finch has promised the national side's fans that his team will give their all in the forthcoming edition. "The ICC T20 Men’s World Cup is going to be a great spectacle and a huge honour for us to defend the trophy in front of our home fans. There are so many great sides with the very best players in the world coming to Australia. It’s an amazing opportunity for Australian fans to see the world’s best.,” Finch stated in an official release. "We’ve felt the power of home crowd support at the 2015 One-Day Cricket World Cup and the Women’s ICC T20 World Cup last year. It will be great to have the whole country behind us and make it another World Cup to remember. We will surely try our best," he added. Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool A. On the other hand, Pool B comprises India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Africa whereas four more teams will join the main draw of the event, two in each group, after the conclusion of the qualifying round.

From MS Dhoni's Team India to Australia: List of winners in ICC Men's T20 World Cup

<p>The T20 World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway on October 16. While all the major teams are finalishing their team combination. the lowly-ranked sides are set to lock horns in the qualifying round which kicks off on Sunday. The qualifiers will see previous winners West Indies (two-time champions) and Sri Lanka (who won the elusive cup in 2014) as they will fight hard with the other teams to book a place in the main draw of the competition, which starts on October 22.</p>

<p>Ahead of the qualifiers, Universe Boss Chris Gayle made a bold claim.&nbsp;Speaking to&nbsp;<em>Dainik Jagran</em>, the 43-year-old predicted the T20 World Cup finalists. He said, "I think there could be a final match between West Indies and Australia. Yes, it is definitely that the players who are included in the West Indies team are talented and can prove to be dangerous for any team. As everyone knows it is just a matter of adapting your strategy in the right way on match day. I hope the team plays well," Gayle added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-indias-warm-up-schedule-squad-venues-timings-telecast-all-you-need-to-know-524337">T20 World Cup 2022, India's warm-up schedule: Squad, venues, timings, telecast - All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>Many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their predictions in the run-up to the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, ot be held in Australia. Most have put India, Australia, South Africa, England and Pakistan as the top contenders for the elusive title. For Nicholas Pooran-led Windies to do well, they will first need to get going from the word go in the qualifiers and then remain consistent against the big sides in the main draw of the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In last year's T20 WC, Kieron Pollard-led West Indies had qualified for the main round but faltered against big teams to bow out in the Super 12. While the big names like Pollard, Sunil Narine, Gayle, Dwayne Bravo have been replaced, the two-time winners still have a lot of firepower with Rovman Powell, Brandon King, Shamarh Brooks, Evin Lewis, Kyle Mayers, Jason Holder, Sheldon Cottrell, Obed McCoy, Alzarri Joseph. Will Pooran &amp; Co. go the distance and return with the title this time around? Only time will tell...</p>


The T20 World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway on October 16. While all the major teams are finalishing their team combination. the lowly-ranked sides are set to lock horns in the qualifying round which kicks off on Sunday.

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway on October 16. While all the major teams are finalishing their team combination. the lowly-ranked sides are set to lock horns in the qualifying round which kicks off on Sunday. The qualifiers will see previous winners West Indies (two-time champions) and Sri Lanka (who won the elusive cup in 2014) as they will fight hard with the other teams to book a place in the main draw of the competition, which starts on October 22. Ahead of the qualifiers, Universe Boss Chris Gayle made a bold claim. Speaking to Dainik Jagran, the 43-year-old predicted the T20 World Cup finalists. He said, "I think there could be a final match between West Indies and Australia. Yes, it is definitely that the players who are included in the West Indies team are talented and can prove to be dangerous for any team. As everyone knows it is just a matter of adapting your strategy in the right way on match day. I hope the team plays well," Gayle added. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022, India's warm-up schedule: Squad, venues, timings, telecast - All you need to know Many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their predictions in the run-up to the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, ot be held in Australia. Most have put India, Australia, South Africa, England and Pakistan as the top contenders for the elusive title. For Nicholas Pooran-led Windies to do well, they will first need to get going from the word go in the qualifiers and then remain consistent against the big sides in the main draw of the competition. In last year's T20 WC, Kieron Pollard-led West Indies had qualified for the main round but faltered against big teams to bow out in the Super 12. While the big names like Pollard, Sunil Narine, Gayle, Dwayne Bravo have been replaced, the two-time winners still have a lot of firepower with Rovman Powell, Brandon King, Shamarh Brooks, Evin Lewis, Kyle Mayers, Jason Holder, Sheldon Cottrell, Obed McCoy, Alzarri Joseph. Will Pooran & Co. go the distance and return with the title this time around? Only time will tell...

T20 World Cup: Not India, Pakistan or England! Chris Gayle predicts finalists for mega event