On Wednesday (June 5), India started their campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup by beating Ireland by eight wickets in match 8 at the&nbsp;Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. Opting to bowl first, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out Paul Stirling-led Ireland for 96 in 16 overs and chased down the score in 12.2 overs with eight wickets in hand. During the run-chase, captain Rohit Sharma retired hurt, for a 37-ball 52, after copping up a blow to his right arm.&nbsp;

After the game, Rohit played down any injury concern. At the post-match presentation, Hitman said, "Yeah, just a little sore (the arm)." The statement comes as a huge relief for the Indian camp and their ardent fans as Men in Blue's next clash is against Pakistan, at the same venue in New York, on Sunday (June 9).

Talking about his time spent at the pitch, Rohit said, "It was scratchy, but good to spend some time in the middle and understand what kind of shots to play there."

Along with Rohit, Rishabh Pant -- who came in at No. 3 -- also made a mark and was unbeaten on 36 (off 26 balls) to steer India to an easy win, with Bumrah adjudged the Player-of-the-Match.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-rohit-sharma-surpasses-ms-dhoni-to-become-indian-captain-with-most-t20i-wins-after-ireland-tie-729219">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie</a>

On how the surface played, Indian captain Rohit further opined, "Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers. That's pretty much what you gotta do. Try to hit those lengths consistently. All these guys have played a lot of Test cricket. Arshdeep is the only guy who hasn't. His two wickets upfront set the tone for us. Don't think we can play four spinners here (laughs)."

He added, "I don't know what to expect from the pitch to be honest. We will prepare as if the conditions are going to be like this (for Pakistan game). This is going to be a kind of game where all XI of us will need to contribute."

India will take on Pakistan in a marquee clash on Sunday with an aim to make it two wins in a row. They are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. The ninth edition of the T20 WC is being held in West Indies and the USA.

On Wednesday (June 5), India started their campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup by beating Ireland by eight wickets in match 8 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York.

On Wednesday (June 5), India started their campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup by beating Ireland by eight wickets in match 8 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. Opting to bowl first, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out Paul Stirling-led Ireland for 96 in 16 overs and chased down the score in 12.2 overs with eight wickets in hand. During the run-chase, captain Rohit Sharma retired hurt, for a 37-ball 52, after copping up a blow to his right arm. After the game, Rohit played down any injury concern. At the post-match presentation, Hitman said, "Yeah, just a little sore (the arm)." The statement comes as a huge relief for the Indian camp and their ardent fans as Men in Blue's next clash is against Pakistan, at the same venue in New York, on Sunday (June 9). Talking about his time spent at the pitch, Rohit said, "It was scratchy, but good to spend some time in the middle and understand what kind of shots to play there." Along with Rohit, Rishabh Pant -- who came in at No. 3 -- also made a mark and was unbeaten on 36 (off 26 balls) to steer India to an easy win, with Bumrah adjudged the Player-of-the-Match. Also read: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie On how the surface played, Indian captain Rohit further opined, "Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers. That's pretty much what you gotta do. Try to hit those lengths consistently. All these guys have played a lot of Test cricket. Arshdeep is the only guy who hasn't. His two wickets upfront set the tone for us. Don't think we can play four spinners here (laughs)." He added, "I don't know what to expect from the pitch to be honest. We will prepare as if the conditions are going to be like this (for Pakistan game). This is going to be a kind of game where all XI of us will need to contribute." India will take on Pakistan in a marquee clash on Sunday with an aim to make it two wins in a row. They are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. The ninth edition of the T20 WC is being held in West Indies and the USA.

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma plays down injury concern ahead of Pakistan tie after retiring hurt vs Ireland

Ind vs Pak: Most runs for India vs Pakistan in T20 World Cup matches

As India get ready to face Ireland in the T20 World Cup on Wednesday (June 5), skipper Rohit Sharma praised&nbsp;coach Rahul Dravid as he takes charge of his final assignment for the national team. Dravid, who confirmed his desire to leave the role of India’s head coach after the T20 World Cup, has enjoyed a successful spell in charge but one that did not end the nation’s ICC trophy hunt. Skipper Rohit on Tuesday revealed that he tried&nbsp; to convince Dravid to stay in charge.

<h2>Tried convincing Dravid</h2>

"I tried convincing him to stay but I think there are a lot of things that he needs to look after. I personally enjoyed my time with him. I'm sure the rest of the guys will say the same. It's been great working with him and I hope I'm not going to say anything (more)," Rohit said while speaking to the media on Tuesday evening.

"Look, my equation with him goes a long way, a long way back from the time he came to do this job. Actually, he was my first international captain when I made my debut in Ireland," Rohit said.

Dravid has enjoyed a successful stint in charge of the Indian side after taking over from Ravi Shastri in 2021. He led India to Test series wins over England while also helping them reach the semifinals of the T20 World Cup in other significant achievements. His contract ended during the 2023 ODI World Cup where India finished runners-up. His finest achievement was taking&nbsp;India to the final of the ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship where his men fell short to Australia on both occasions.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-max-odowd-half-century-steers-netherlands-past-nepal-728808">T20 World Cup 2024: Max O'Dowd half-century steers Netherlands past Nepal</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to extend Dravid’s stay at least until the T20 World Cup. However, Dravid on Monday stated that he won’t be reapplying for the role and will leave after the end of his current stint.

India will be in action on Wednesday evening for the first time in the T20 World Cup in New York when they face Ireland. The 2007 champions will field a strong team and are likely to include Virat Kohli for the first time on the tour. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya will also feature alongside skipper Rohit in the match. The match will start at 8:00 pm IST with the toss taking place at 7:30 pm IST.

As India get ready to face Ireland in the T20 World Cup on Wednesday (June 5), skipper Rohit Sharma praised coach Rahul Dravid as he takes charge of his final assignment for the national team.

As India get ready to face Ireland in the T20 World Cup on Wednesday (June 5), skipper Rohit Sharma praised coach Rahul Dravid as he takes charge of his final assignment for the national team. Dravid, who confirmed his desire to leave the role of India’s head coach after the T20 World Cup, has enjoyed a successful spell in charge but one that did not end the nation’s ICC trophy hunt. Skipper Rohit on Tuesday revealed that he tried to convince Dravid to stay in charge. Tried convincing Dravid "I tried convincing him to stay but I think there are a lot of things that he needs to look after. I personally enjoyed my time with him. I'm sure the rest of the guys will say the same. It's been great working with him and I hope I'm not going to say anything (more)," Rohit said while speaking to the media on Tuesday evening. "Look, my equation with him goes a long way, a long way back from the time he came to do this job. Actually, he was my first international captain when I made my debut in Ireland," Rohit said. Dravid has enjoyed a successful stint in charge of the Indian side after taking over from Ravi Shastri in 2021. He led India to Test series wins over England while also helping them reach the semifinals of the T20 World Cup in other significant achievements. His contract ended during the 2023 ODI World Cup where India finished runners-up. His finest achievement was taking India to the final of the ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship where his men fell short to Australia on both occasions. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: Max O'Dowd half-century steers Netherlands past Nepal The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to extend Dravid’s stay at least until the T20 World Cup. However, Dravid on Monday stated that he won’t be reapplying for the role and will leave after the end of his current stint. India will be in action on Wednesday evening for the first time in the T20 World Cup in New York when they face Ireland. The 2007 champions will field a strong team and are likely to include Virat Kohli for the first time on the tour. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya will also feature alongside skipper Rohit in the match. The match will start at 8:00 pm IST with the toss taking place at 7:30 pm IST.

T20 World Cup 2024: Tried to convince Rahul Dravid to stay on as coach, says Rohit Sharma ahead of Ireland tie

India are gearing up for their T20 World Cup 2024 opener, where they will take on Ireland&nbsp;at the Nassau County Cricket Ground in New York on Wednesday (June 5). Ahead of the start of the&nbsp;tournament, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra&nbsp;issued a stern warning for the one-time winners and questioned the team's preparations and tactics. Chopra pointed fingers at captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for being away from the shortest format for 14 months, following the last edition in Australia in late 2022, and even questioned the team's&nbsp;lack of role clarity.&nbsp;

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra questioned why India are still figuring out their playing XI. He further stated that every player should have known their respective roles before the tournament and not at the start of it.

<h2>'Shouldn't it be ideal that we should have known the opening combination by now?'</h2>

Chopra stated, "Are India underprepared for yet another T20 World Cup? Aren't we still figuring out our batting line-up? Who is the opener and the finisher? Should we get to know all these only in the World Cup? Yes, India like a left-right combination, but are almost certain to go with two right-handers: Rohit and Kohli. Rishabh Pant will likely bat at No. 3, followed by Suryakumar Yadav, and their dismissals will depend on whether India will next send Shivam Dube or Hardik Pandya. Then Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. There are a lot of left-handers. But my question remains, why are we getting to know about this now? Shouldn't it be ideal that we should have known the opening combination by now?"

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-virat-kohli-headlines-indias-intense-training-session-ahead-of-ireland-clash-watch-728602">T20 WC: Virat Kohli headlines India's intense training session ahead of Ireland clash - Watch</a>

He further added, "Since the end of the last T20 World Cup in 2022, we have been playing with almost the same XI and the same batting order. So, what have we changed? And the roles that have changed, none were informed about it. It's not ideal. And it is because none of the senior players played since the last World Cup. I strongly feel we lack proper preparation. We are still trying to address it. We do have individual brilliance, but what happened last times was that we created a scene around the opening position. Between the World Cup in the UAE and Australia, we tried so many options for the opening role, including Suryakumar Yadav. But eventually, we opened with Rohit and Rahul, Kohli at 3...absolutely no use. That came back to haunt us. It's an early warning, but we haven't prepared well."

India head into the T20 WC with only one warm-up game since arriving in the United States, co-hosts of the mega event along with West Indies. India played Bangladesh in the warm-up encounter and came with a different batting line-up. It remains to be seen who will be India's openers in their first game, versus Ireland. Moreover, it also remains to be seen if Shivam Dube and Yashasvi Jaiswal will get a look-in. Thus, India have a lot of questions before their tournament opener, on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The 2007 winners are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada.&nbsp;

India are gearing up for their T20 World Cup 2024 opener, where they will take on Ireland at the Nassau County Cricket Ground in New York on Wednesday (June 5). Ahead of the start of the tournament, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra issued a stern warning for the one-time winners and questioned the team's preparations and tactics.

India are gearing up for their T20 World Cup 2024 opener, where they will take on Ireland at the Nassau County Cricket Ground in New York on Wednesday (June 5). Ahead of the start of the tournament, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra issued a stern warning for the one-time winners and questioned the team's preparations and tactics. Chopra pointed fingers at captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for being away from the shortest format for 14 months, following the last edition in Australia in late 2022, and even questioned the team's lack of role clarity. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra questioned why India are still figuring out their playing XI. He further stated that every player should have known their respective roles before the tournament and not at the start of it. 'Shouldn't it be ideal that we should have known the opening combination by now?' Chopra stated, "Are India underprepared for yet another T20 World Cup? Aren't we still figuring out our batting line-up? Who is the opener and the finisher? Should we get to know all these only in the World Cup? Yes, India like a left-right combination, but are almost certain to go with two right-handers: Rohit and Kohli. Rishabh Pant will likely bat at No. 3, followed by Suryakumar Yadav, and their dismissals will depend on whether India will next send Shivam Dube or Hardik Pandya. Then Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. There are a lot of left-handers. But my question remains, why are we getting to know about this now? Shouldn't it be ideal that we should have known the opening combination by now?" Also read: T20 WC: Virat Kohli headlines India's intense training session ahead of Ireland clash - Watch He further added, "Since the end of the last T20 World Cup in 2022, we have been playing with almost the same XI and the same batting order. So, what have we changed? And the roles that have changed, none were informed about it. It's not ideal. And it is because none of the senior players played since the last World Cup. I strongly feel we lack proper preparation. We are still trying to address it. We do have individual brilliance, but what happened last times was that we created a scene around the opening position. Between the World Cup in the UAE and Australia, we tried so many options for the opening role, including Suryakumar Yadav. But eventually, we opened with Rohit and Rahul, Kohli at 3...absolutely no use. That came back to haunt us. It's an early warning, but we haven't prepared well." India head into the T20 WC with only one warm-up game since arriving in the United States, co-hosts of the mega event along with West Indies. India played Bangladesh in the warm-up encounter and came with a different batting line-up. It remains to be seen who will be India's openers in their first game, versus Ireland. Moreover, it also remains to be seen if Shivam Dube and Yashasvi Jaiswal will get a look-in. Thus, India have a lot of questions before their tournament opener, on Wednesday. The 2007 winners are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada.

'Are India underprepared for yet another T20 WC?': Former Indian opener issues warning to Rohit Sharma & Co

India captain Rohit Sharma was seen seeking help from the team management for a fan whom the New York Police handcuffed for breaching security and entering the ground during the warm-up game against Bangladesh on Saturday (June 1). A pitch invader ran towards Rohit to hug him before two officers rushed to put him down, as seen in a video circulating on the internet.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-tighten-security-web-headlines-indias-warm-up-tie-amid-threat-from-terror-groups-727982">T20 World Cup: Tight security web highlight of India’s warm-up match amid threat concerns</a>

Just when the police personnel grabbed him and were about to handcuff him for breaching security, Rohit tried calming everyone, urging the officers to go easy on the Indian fan. After realising that the police would go about their business their way, Rohit immediately asked someone from the team management to rush and help the fan.&nbsp;

Later, the police personnel escorted the pitch invader out of the ground.

Watch the Video here –

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The fan who breached the field and hugged Rohit Sharma was taken down by the USA police. 
 
- Rohit requested the officers to go easy on them. <a href="https://t.co/MWWCNeF3U2">pic.twitter.com/MWWCNeF3U2</a>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1796959867971973592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the local security agencies in&nbsp;Nassau County, in addition to the state police, are on high alert to ensure the smooth hosting of the 20-team tournament in the States for the first time.&nbsp;

Following a threat from the ISIS-linked terror groups, mainly targeting the Indian Team ahead of their marquee clash against Pakistan, the security web is tightened in and around the venue, with surveillance, ground security, personal screening and a helicopter hovering over the venue (during the IND-BAN game) all placed in line to curb any hiccups.&nbsp;

Moreover, the governor of the state of New York, Kathy Hochul, said in a statement from her office; "I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance and thorough screening processes. Public safety is my top priority, and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience."

<h2>India readies for T20 World Cup</h2>

The first batch of the Indian Team landed in the USA on May 26 before the remaining ones, involved in the IPL 2024 Final, joined them in New York for the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

After landing in the States, the team resumed training at the newly-built Nassau County Cricket Stadium, one of the three venues to host T20 WC matches in America.&nbsp;

India is placed in Group A alongside co-host USA, Canada, Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on Pakistan in New York on Sunday (June 9).&nbsp;

India captain Rohit Sharma was seen seeking help from the team management for a fan whom the New York Police handcuffed for breaching security and entering the ground during the warm-up game against Bangladesh on Saturday (June 1).

India captain Rohit Sharma was seen seeking help from the team management for a fan whom the New York Police handcuffed for breaching security and entering the ground during the warm-up game against Bangladesh on Saturday (June 1). A pitch invader ran towards Rohit to hug him before two officers rushed to put him down, as seen in a video circulating on the internet. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: Tight security web highlight of India’s warm-up match amid threat concerns Just when the police personnel grabbed him and were about to handcuff him for breaching security, Rohit tried calming everyone, urging the officers to go easy on the Indian fan. After realising that the police would go about their business their way, Rohit immediately asked someone from the team management to rush and help the fan. Later, the police personnel escorted the pitch invader out of the ground. Watch the Video here – The fan who breached the field and hugged Rohit Sharma was taken down by the USA police. - Rohit requested the officers to go easy on them. pic.twitter.com/MWWCNeF3U2 — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 1, 2024 × Meanwhile, the local security agencies in Nassau County, in addition to the state police, are on high alert to ensure the smooth hosting of the 20-team tournament in the States for the first time. Following a threat from the ISIS-linked terror groups, mainly targeting the Indian Team ahead of their marquee clash against Pakistan, the security web is tightened in and around the venue, with surveillance, ground security, personal screening and a helicopter hovering over the venue (during the IND-BAN game) all placed in line to curb any hiccups. Moreover, the governor of the state of New York, Kathy Hochul, said in a statement from her office; "I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance and thorough screening processes. Public safety is my top priority, and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience." India readies for T20 World Cup The first batch of the Indian Team landed in the USA on May 26 before the remaining ones, involved in the IPL 2024 Final, joined them in New York for the T20 World Cup. After landing in the States, the team resumed training at the newly-built Nassau County Cricket Stadium, one of the three venues to host T20 WC matches in America. India is placed in Group A alongside co-host USA, Canada, Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan. Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on Pakistan in New York on Sunday (June 9).

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma seeks help for pitch invader as New York Police handcuffs fan during IND-BAN tie – Watch

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal were India's openers in their last T20I series in the run-up to the T20 WC, however, Jaffer feels Rohit can bat at No. 4 as he plays spin really well and backed Kohli to replace him at the top. Meanwhile, the former cricketer feels Suryakumar Yadav can bat at No. 3 in the mega event.&nbsp;

Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Kohli and Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit &amp; SKY should bat 3 and 4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern."

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Kohli &amp; Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit &amp; SKY should bat 3&amp;4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern. <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://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvIRE</a> <a href="https://t.co/nMgwwaDNXb">pic.twitter.com/nMgwwaDNXb</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1795716168868938019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-remains-the-only-missing-face-as-indian-players-undergo-training-726650">T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli remains the only missing face as Indian players undergo training</a>

It is to be noted that Rohit has a decent record&nbsp;while batting at No. 3 and 4. In 12 T20Is batting in those positions, the Indian captain has 315 runs at an average of 39.37 with four half-centuries under his belt. Nonetheless, he has batted as an opener for majority part of his T20I career and has all his four T20I centuries while batting at the top. On the other hand, Kohli has been India's best batter at No. 3, in white-ball formats, for a very long time. However, he has a good record as a T20I opener as well. The right-hander had 400 runs from nine games at an average of 57.14 with a top score of 122 not out (which came against Afghanistan during 2022 Asia Cup 2022). Meanwhile,&nbsp;Jaiswal&nbsp;has a solitary T20I hundred as an opener, which came&nbsp;against Nepal in the 2023 Asian Games.

India are placed in Group A in the T20 WC, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York before their marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9.

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal were India's openers in their last T20I series in the run-up to the T20 WC, however, Jaffer feels Rohit can bat at No. 4 as he plays spin really well and backed Kohli to replace him at the top. Meanwhile, the former cricketer feels Suryakumar Yadav can bat at No. 3 in the mega event. Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Kohli and Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit & SKY should bat 3 and 4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern." Kohli & Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit & SKY should bat 3&4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern. #T20WorldCup #INDvPAK #INDvIRE pic.twitter.com/nMgwwaDNXb — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) May 29, 2024 × Also read: T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli remains the only missing face as Indian players undergo training It is to be noted that Rohit has a decent record while batting at No. 3 and 4. In 12 T20Is batting in those positions, the Indian captain has 315 runs at an average of 39.37 with four half-centuries under his belt. Nonetheless, he has batted as an opener for majority part of his T20I career and has all his four T20I centuries while batting at the top. On the other hand, Kohli has been India's best batter at No. 3, in white-ball formats, for a very long time. However, he has a good record as a T20I opener as well. The right-hander had 400 runs from nine games at an average of 57.14 with a top score of 122 not out (which came against Afghanistan during 2022 Asia Cup 2022). Meanwhile, Jaiswal has a solitary T20I hundred as an opener, which came against Nepal in the 2023 Asian Games. India are placed in Group A in the T20 WC, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York before their marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9.

T20 World Cup: Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4

When India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad was announced, it left many surprised when Rinku Singh's name didn't feature in it. Rinku, who has made a mark in a handful of T20Is, wasn't named in the main squad but will be travelling to West Indies and USA, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup, as a part of the travelling reserves. The left-hander has 356 runs in 15 T20Is at a strike-rate of&nbsp;176.23 and an average of 89. In India's last T20I before the T20 WC, Rinku made his highest score (69) and was involved in a mammoth unbroken 190-run fifth-wicket stand along with captain Rohit Sharma (121); which came against Afghanistan in January 2024.

Despite his consistent run as a finisher, Rinku couldn't make it to the T20 WC squad. Recently, the star player (who won the IPL 2024 with the Kolkata Knight Riders) opined on his exclusion and revealed his chat with captain Rohit.&nbsp;

<h2>'Rohit Sharma told there is another T20 WC in 2026'</h2>

After KKR's IPL 2024 win, Rinku said during a chat with Daignik Jagran, "Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-to-be-india-head-coach-virat-kohlis-coach-suggests-him-as-contender-726321">MS Dhoni to be India head coach? Virat Kohli's coach suggests him as contender</a>

Rinku further also opined on captain Rohit. He heaped praise on Hitman and said, "The whole world has seen how good his captaincy is. If I talk about myself personally, I have done only one tour with him so far. I have not even talked to him much. He supports the youth a lot.&nbsp;He added,&nbsp;"He only wants the youth to do well and he always says that play, do well."

Rohit-led India are placed in Group A in the 2024 T20 WC. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Their group comprises arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and USA. In the 2022 edition, Rohit-led India ended as the semifinalists.

<h3>India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad –</h3>

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

When India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad was announced, it left many surprised when Rinku Singh's name didn't feature in it. Rinku, who has made a mark in a handful of T20Is, wasn't named in the main squad but will be travelling to West Indies and USA, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup, as a part of the travelling reserves.

When India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad was announced, it left many surprised when Rinku Singh's name didn't feature in it. Rinku, who has made a mark in a handful of T20Is, wasn't named in the main squad but will be travelling to West Indies and USA, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup, as a part of the travelling reserves. The left-hander has 356 runs in 15 T20Is at a strike-rate of 176.23 and an average of 89. In India's last T20I before the T20 WC, Rinku made his highest score (69) and was involved in a mammoth unbroken 190-run fifth-wicket stand along with captain Rohit Sharma (121); which came against Afghanistan in January 2024. Despite his consistent run as a finisher, Rinku couldn't make it to the T20 WC squad. Recently, the star player (who won the IPL 2024 with the Kolkata Knight Riders) opined on his exclusion and revealed his chat with captain Rohit. 'Rohit Sharma told there is another T20 WC in 2026' After KKR's IPL 2024 win, Rinku said during a chat with Daignik Jagran, "Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me." Also read: MS Dhoni to be India head coach? Virat Kohli's coach suggests him as contender Rinku further also opined on captain Rohit. He heaped praise on Hitman and said, "The whole world has seen how good his captaincy is. If I talk about myself personally, I have done only one tour with him so far. I have not even talked to him much. He supports the youth a lot. He added, "He only wants the youth to do well and he always says that play, do well." Rohit-led India are placed in Group A in the 2024 T20 WC. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Their group comprises arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and USA. In the 2022 edition, Rohit-led India ended as the semifinalists. India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad – Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

There is a World Cup again after two years: Rinku Singh reveals chat with Rohit Sharma post T20 WC snub

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition. The 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 with Rohit-led India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. Before their tournament opener, Manjrekar opined that India bowed out of the 2022 edition due to Rohit-Kohli's defensive approach in the semifinals, where they lost to eventual winners England by 10 wickets, but feels the duo will not repeat their mistakes this time around.&nbsp;

<h2>'India had lost T20 WC 2022 semifinal due to Kohli, Rohit's knocks'</h2>

Manjrekar wrote in his column, "In the last T20 World Cup two years ago, in the semis against England in Adelaide, India batted first and got only 168 runs in 20 overs, and a shocking 62 in the first 10. The bulk of deliveries in this crucial period were faced by the seniors, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit got 27 off 28 balls at a strike rate of 96, while Virat scored 50 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 125, eventually getting out in the 18th over."

"India had lost the tournament right there. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s 63 off 33 balls, at a strike rate of 190, India had something to show on the board. England, unsurprisingly, chased the target in 16 overs with 10 wickets in hand," Manjrekar recounted the semifinal loss.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-pak-england-captain-jos-buttler-to-miss-third-t20i-for-birth-of-child-726248">Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child</a>

However, Manjrekar feels Rohit and Kohli will not be making the same mistakes this time around as the Hitman has resorted to ultra-aggressive approach at the top whereas Kohli has also improved his power-hitting versus spin outside the powerplays. Manjrekar added, "Having said this, we can be sure of one thing. Rohit and Virat will not commit the same mistakes made in that semis. It’s worth acknowledging that Virat is not the same T20 player he was two years ago. He must know deep down, surely, that the ‘outside noise’ has actually made him a better T20 batter today than he was two years ago."

"Is there still a lingering risk attached to Virat – that when it comes to the big stage, the knockout games, he is preoccupied with batting longer rather than batting quicker? For Indian cricket’s sake, let’s hope this preoccupation is buried deep," the former batter concluded.

In the recent past, Rohit has been very aggressive with the bat at the top (especially in the 2023 ODI World Cup and during the T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year). Meanwhile, Kohli struck at an impressive 154.69 in IPL 2024, ending with most runs (741) in the just-concluded league. Both the batters are expected to continue their run-scoring spree, at a higher strike-rate, in the upcoming T20 WC, in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition. The 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 with Rohit-led India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. Before their tournament opener, Manjrekar opined that India bowed out of the 2022 edition due to Rohit-Kohli's defensive approach in the semifinals, where they lost to eventual winners England by 10 wickets, but feels the duo will not repeat their mistakes this time around. 'India had lost T20 WC 2022 semifinal due to Kohli, Rohit's knocks' Manjrekar wrote in his column, "In the last T20 World Cup two years ago, in the semis against England in Adelaide, India batted first and got only 168 runs in 20 overs, and a shocking 62 in the first 10. The bulk of deliveries in this crucial period were faced by the seniors, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit got 27 off 28 balls at a strike rate of 96, while Virat scored 50 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 125, eventually getting out in the 18th over." "India had lost the tournament right there. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s 63 off 33 balls, at a strike rate of 190, India had something to show on the board. England, unsurprisingly, chased the target in 16 overs with 10 wickets in hand," Manjrekar recounted the semifinal loss. Also read: Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child However, Manjrekar feels Rohit and Kohli will not be making the same mistakes this time around as the Hitman has resorted to ultra-aggressive approach at the top whereas Kohli has also improved his power-hitting versus spin outside the powerplays. Manjrekar added, "Having said this, we can be sure of one thing. Rohit and Virat will not commit the same mistakes made in that semis. It’s worth acknowledging that Virat is not the same T20 player he was two years ago. He must know deep down, surely, that the ‘outside noise’ has actually made him a better T20 batter today than he was two years ago." "Is there still a lingering risk attached to Virat – that when it comes to the big stage, the knockout games, he is preoccupied with batting longer rather than batting quicker? For Indian cricket’s sake, let’s hope this preoccupation is buried deep," the former batter concluded. In the recent past, Rohit has been very aggressive with the bat at the top (especially in the 2023 ODI World Cup and during the T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year). Meanwhile, Kohli struck at an impressive 154.69 in IPL 2024, ending with most runs (741) in the just-concluded league. Both the batters are expected to continue their run-scoring spree, at a higher strike-rate, in the upcoming T20 WC, in West Indies and USA.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma won’t repeat mistakes of T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar

The first batch of the Indian Cricket Team will depart for New York for the 2024 T20 World Cup on Saturday (May 25) at 10 P.m. from Mumbai. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav are among the marquee players in the first batch that will fly to Dubai first and to New York after that.

The first batch of the Indian Cricket Team will depart for New York for the 2024 T20 World Cup on Saturday (May 25) at 10 P.m. from Mumbai. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav are among the marquee players in the first batch that will fly to Dubai first and to New York after that. Meanwhile, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will fly from London to join the Indian Team in New York for the marquee event. The second lot, including players like Sanju Samson, Avesh Khan, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Yuzvendra Chahal, will depart later. The four mentioned players were part of the Rajasthan Royals side in the ongoing IPL 2024, where they lost to SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai the other night. While three RR players are part of the main squad, seamer Avesh Khan is among the four travelling reserves. Alongside him, opener Shubman Gill (Gujarat Titans), Khaleel Ahmed (Delhi Capitals) and Rinku Singh (Kolkata Knight Riders) are the remaining three. ALSO READ: Indian cricket in a nutshell - No T20 World Cup-bound player in IPL 2024 Final Of all the 19 players picked for the 20-team tournament, Rinku is the only one playing in the IPL 2024 Final. Kolkata will take on Hyderabad in the IPL 2024 Final on Sunday (May 26). Pandya to fly from London to join Team India Newly-appointed Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya flew to London after his side’s dismal campaign this season, where they finished last, winning just four out of 14 matches. Per the latest reports, Pandya will fly from London to join the Indian Team in New York for the T20 World Cup. Upon landing, the Indian Team will resume training before taking on Bangladesh in their only warm-up tie on Saturday (June 1). Meanwhile, the Men in Blue are drawn in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, co-hosts USA, Canada and Ireland; they will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5, taking on Pakistan next in the marquee T20 WC clash on June 9 (Sunday) at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad – Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya to fly from London as Team India's first batch to depart for New York on May 25

Former England cricketer-turned-broadcaster David Lloyd has called the Indian squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup predictable and a bunch of non-risk-takers. Lloyd feels the chosen 15 for the 20-team tournament are unthreatening, giving opposition teams a chance against the hyped Men in Blue side in the Americas.

Former England cricketer-turned-broadcaster David Lloyd has called the Indian squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup predictable and a bunch of non-risk-takers. Lloyd feels the chosen 15 for the 20-team tournament are unthreatening, giving opposition teams a chance against the hyped Men in Blue side in the Americas. Lloyd’s remarks have come on the back of India’s dismal record in the ICC tournaments since last winning it more than a decade ago. On the TalkSPORT Cricket Podcast, Lloyd said the opposition teams will look at India as a side with big names and a few match-winners but wouldn’t get intimidated by their playing style, which he called unthreatening. ALSO READ: ‘Profit over passion’ - Lalit Modi slams ICC for $20000 ticket price for India-Pakistan T20 WC tie "(It is) quite a predictable team. The shackles are not off. I would think the opposition accepts the quality.. yeah, good players these. But they ain't taking a risk with bat or ball. So, you'd think of them as 'yeah, they will have their moments,' but they wouldn't be really threatening," said Lloyd. Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team came close to winning the T20 World Cup in the previous edition in Australia, where they reached the last four but got knocked out by the eventual winners England by 10 wickets in the semis. They made it to the semis (2016) and even the final (2014) on two occasions before, but the Asian giant failed to win on D-Day. They won the maiden edition in South Africa in 2007. Chaos in the lead-up to squad selection Following the first half of the ongoing IPL 2024, the selectors had plenty of options to pick from, given how some youngsters, including Abhishek Sharma and Avesh Khan, were making headlines with their star performances throughout. Although other names like Rinku Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill remained in contention for the T20 WC berth, the selection committee picked a predictable 15 for the marquee event. Rohit Sharma continues to lead the team, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and star batter Virat Kohli picked as the top-order players. Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya will make up the middle order, while Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson are picked as keeper batters. Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel are two spin-bowling all-rounders, whereas Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are front-line spinners. Ace pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj tick the seam-bowling department. Although Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee ignored KL Rahul, they picked Rinku, Shubman, Avesh and Khaleel Ahmed as travelling reserves. India will open their T20 WC campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee clash on June 9 in New York.

Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad

Pakistan are set to lock horns with England in a four-match T20I series, in England, starting on May 22 (Wednesday). This will be the final preparations for both the sides as they head into the 2024 T20 World Cup due&nbsp;to kickoff in West Indies and USA in June. Ahead of the series opener, all eyes are on Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam.

If Pakistan have to strengthen their T20 WC preparations and win the series versus Jos Buttler &amp; Co., Babar will have to be among runs from the first game itself. The right-hander played a blinder in his side's 2-1 T20I series win over Ireland before heading to the United Kingdom. Ahead of the first game, to be held at&nbsp;Headingley, Leeds on Wednesday, here are a plethora of records, owned by Indian superstars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which can be broken by Babar in the four-match seriesm, and the numbers needed by him to script history:

45 – Babar&nbsp;is just 45 runs short of becoming only the third batter to enter the 4000-run club&nbsp;in T20Is.&nbsp;Kohli and Suzie Bates (of New Zealand) are the other batters to have achieved this feat.

20 - The Pakistan skipper needs 20 more runs to overtake current Indian captain&nbsp;Rohit&nbsp;as the second-highest run-scorer in the shortest format. Hitman&nbsp;has&nbsp;3,974 runs from 151 T20Is -- second-most after Kohli.

83 - Babar&nbsp;is 83 runs away from&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;the all-time leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is. Kohli's tally currently is&nbsp;4,037 runs from 117 T20Is.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bangladesh-suffer-shock-defeat-against-usa-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-724109">Bangladesh suffer shock defeat against USA ahead of T20 World Cup</a>

48- Babar&nbsp;also needs 48 runs to become the all-time leading run-scorer in T20Is versus two-time T20 WC winner England. At present,&nbsp;Kohli holds the record, amassing&nbsp;639 runs from 20 games.

95 – The 29-year-old Pakistani star&nbsp;needs 95 runs to become the highest run-getter among away batters in T20Is on English soil. Australia's T20 WC-winning skipper&nbsp;Aaron Finch is the&nbsp;record-holder at the moment;&nbsp;370 runs in six T20Is at a whopping&nbsp;average of 61.66.

Babar will be eager to make the most of the four-match series versus England and attain all these records before entering the T20 WC. However, it won't be easy against the current T20 WC champions England in their own soil.&nbsp;

After this series, the Men in Green will move towards the T20 WC -- without any warm-up games -- where they are placed in Group A along with India, USA, Canada and Ireland. Their marquee encounter versus Team India is on June 9 in New York.

Pakistan are set to lock horns with England in a four-match T20I series, in England, starting on May 22 (Wednesday). This will be the final preparations for both the sides as they head into the 2024 T20 World Cup due to kickoff in West Indies and USA in June.

Pakistan are set to lock horns with England in a four-match T20I series, in England, starting on May 22 (Wednesday). This will be the final preparations for both the sides as they head into the 2024 T20 World Cup due to kickoff in West Indies and USA in June. Ahead of the series opener, all eyes are on Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam. If Pakistan have to strengthen their T20 WC preparations and win the series versus Jos Buttler & Co., Babar will have to be among runs from the first game itself. The right-hander played a blinder in his side's 2-1 T20I series win over Ireland before heading to the United Kingdom. Ahead of the first game, to be held at Headingley, Leeds on Wednesday, here are a plethora of records, owned by Indian superstars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which can be broken by Babar in the four-match seriesm, and the numbers needed by him to script history: 45 – Babar is just 45 runs short of becoming only the third batter to enter the 4000-run club in T20Is. Kohli and Suzie Bates (of New Zealand) are the other batters to have achieved this feat. 20 - The Pakistan skipper needs 20 more runs to overtake current Indian captain Rohit as the second-highest run-scorer in the shortest format. Hitman has 3,974 runs from 151 T20Is -- second-most after Kohli. 83 - Babar is 83 runs away from becoming the all-time leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is. Kohli's tally currently is 4,037 runs from 117 T20Is. Also read: Bangladesh suffer shock defeat against USA ahead of T20 World Cup 48- Babar also needs 48 runs to become the all-time leading run-scorer in T20Is versus two-time T20 WC winner England. At present, Kohli holds the record, amassing 639 runs from 20 games. 95 – The 29-year-old Pakistani star needs 95 runs to become the highest run-getter among away batters in T20Is on English soil. Australia's T20 WC-winning skipper Aaron Finch is the record-holder at the moment; 370 runs in six T20Is at a whopping average of 61.66. Babar will be eager to make the most of the four-match series versus England and attain all these records before entering the T20 WC. However, it won't be easy against the current T20 WC champions England in their own soil. After this series, the Men in Green will move towards the T20 WC -- without any warm-up games -- where they are placed in Group A along with India, USA, Canada and Ireland. Their marquee encounter versus Team India is on June 9 in New York.

Eng vs Pak: Major milestones awaited! Pakistan captain Babar Azam nears Rohit, Kohli’s all-time T20I records

Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani termed the franchise's Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season as disappointing and said that the team will 'think about it.'. MI finished last in the league stage with just four wins and 10 losses in 14 games under Hardik Pandya, who was leading the side in the IPL 2024.&nbsp;

"Disappointing season for all of us. Things didn't go the way we wanted them to, but I'm still a huge Mumbai Indians fan. Not just an owner. I think to wear the Mumbai Indians jersey is a huge honour and a privilege, and to be associated with Mumbai Indians, for me, is an honour and a privilege. I think, we will go back, review and think about it," Ambani said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/after-rohit-sharmas-privacy-breach-accusations-ipl-host-broadcaster-issues-statement-723571">After Rohit Sharma's 'privacy breach' accusations, IPL host broadcaster issues statement</a>

The five-time champions started the season horribly, losing three games on the trot before registering consecutive wins in the next two games.

Their season seemed to come on the track with one more win from the next two games. Four losses in the next four games, however, left them hanging by a thread in the race of playoffs. In their last three league games, MI could manage only one win as they crashed out of the playoff race in Pandya's first season as full-time skipper.

Pandya had replaced long-time skipper Rohit Sharma before the start of the season. Notably, it was under Rohit that MI had won all their five titles - the joint most in the IPL.

Rohit emerged as MI's highest run-getter this season with 417 runs to his name in 14 matches including a fifty and a hundred as well. He scored those runs at an average of 32 but a whopping strike rate of 150. Pandya, on the other hand, managed just 216 runs &nbsp;at an average of 18 to go with his 11 wickets as well.

Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani termed the franchise's Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season as disappointing and said that the team will 'think about it.'. MI finished last in the league stage with just four wins and 10 losses in 14 games under Hardik Pandya, who was leading the side in the IPL 2024.

Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani termed the franchise's Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season as disappointing and said that the team will 'think about it.'. MI finished last in the league stage with just four wins and 10 losses in 14 games under Hardik Pandya, who was leading the side in the IPL 2024. "Disappointing season for all of us. Things didn't go the way we wanted them to, but I'm still a huge Mumbai Indians fan. Not just an owner. I think to wear the Mumbai Indians jersey is a huge honour and a privilege, and to be associated with Mumbai Indians, for me, is an honour and a privilege. I think, we will go back, review and think about it," Ambani said. Also Read: After Rohit Sharma's 'privacy breach' accusations, IPL host broadcaster issues statement The five-time champions started the season horribly, losing three games on the trot before registering consecutive wins in the next two games. Their season seemed to come on the track with one more win from the next two games. Four losses in the next four games, however, left them hanging by a thread in the race of playoffs. In their last three league games, MI could manage only one win as they crashed out of the playoff race in Pandya's first season as full-time skipper. Pandya had replaced long-time skipper Rohit Sharma before the start of the season. Notably, it was under Rohit that MI had won all their five titles - the joint most in the IPL. Rohit emerged as MI's highest run-getter this season with 417 runs to his name in 14 matches including a fifty and a hundred as well. He scored those runs at an average of 32 but a whopping strike rate of 150. Pandya, on the other hand, managed just 216 runs at an average of 18 to go with his 11 wickets as well.

IPL 2024: 'We will go back...,' Nita Ambani on Mumbai Indians' 'disappointing' season

Star Sports issued a clarification statement days after Mumbai Indians (MI) player Rohit Sharma criticised the official TV broadcaster of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for invasion of privacy by airing a private conversation, despite being told not to record it.

Star Sports issued a clarification statement days after Mumbai Indians (MI) player Rohit Sharma criticised the official TV broadcaster of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for invasion of privacy by airing a private conversation, despite being told not to record it. Star Sports rebuffed Rohit's claims saying it respected players' privacy and that it didn't record any audio from a conversation Rohit had with his friends along the boundary ropes. "A clip involving a senior Indian player and his post on social media have gained prominence since yesterday. The clip, taken during a training session on May 16 at Wankhede stadium, for which Star Sports had authorised access, momentarily showed the senior player in conversation with his friends on the sidelines," Star Sports said in a statement. "No audio from this conversation was either recorded or broadcast. The clip, which only showed the senior player requesting for the audio of his conversation to not be recorded, got featured in Star Sports' live coverage of pre-match preparations and lacked editorial relevance beyond this," it added. Star Sports may have been referring to the May 16 incident when Rohit, while talking to Dhawal Kulkarni, requested the cameraperson recording them to turn off the sound. "Brother, turn off the audio. One audio has made life difficult for me," Rohit could be heard saying. Also read | Rohit Sharma launches scathing attack on broadcaster for privacy breach, calls for ‘better sense to prevail’ Rohit's convo with Nayar In a prior video, Rohit was interacting with Kolkata Knight Riders coach Abhishek Nayar about how things have gone since he was ousted as the MI captain. The entire private clip went viral, leading to speculations that Rohit was playing his final season in MI colours. After MI played its final match of the season, Rohit took to his social media handles and requested the broadcasters to draw the line between privacy and content fit for public consumption. “The lives of cricketers have become so intrusive that cameras are now recording every step and conversation we are having in privacy with our friends and colleagues, at training or on match days," Rohit wrote. “Despite asking Star Sports to not record my conversation, it was and was also then played on air, which is a breach of privacy. The need to get exclusive content and focused only on views and engagement will one day break the trust between the fans, cricketers and cricket,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

After Rohit Sharma’s ‘privacy breach’ accusations, IPL host broadcaster issues statement

India captain Rohit Sharma launched a scathing attack on the IPL broadcaster – Star Sports for breaching players’ privacy during the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League.

India captain Rohit Sharma launched a scathing attack on the IPL broadcaster – Star Sports for breaching players’ privacy during the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League. Rohit took to social media to question broadcasters’ role in deciding what to put out and what not, adding with cameras reaching everywhere, the players’ lives have become so intrusive. In his ‘X’ post, Rohit asked the broadcasters to draw the line somewhere. He further said that despite repeatedly requesting Star Sports not to record the conversation between players during the training session ahead of MI’s last group game, they did and later aired it on television, with clips surfacing all over the internet. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: WATCH | T20 World Cup-bound Arshdeep clean bowls Travis Head on first ball in PBKS vs SRH “The lives of cricketers have become so intrusive that cameras are now recording every step and conversation we are having in privacy with our friends and colleagues, at training or on match days.” “Despite asking Star Sports to not record my conversation, it was and was also then played on air, which is a breach of privacy. The need to get exclusive content and focused only on views and engagement will one day break the trust between the fans, cricketers and cricket,” the former MI captain wrote in a social media post. The lives of cricketers have become so intrusive that cameras are now recording every step and conversation we are having in privacy with our friends and colleagues, at training or on match days. Despite asking Star Sports to not record my conversation, it was and was also then… — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) May 19, 2024 × With this, he sent a clear message to all stakeholders involved that by breaching the players’ privacy, the trust factor among all concerned will go for a toss. Not a happier space to be in Following last year’s home World Cup loss at the hands of Australia, Rohit Sharma hasn’t been in the happiest space. Although he led India to an emphatic Test series win over England at home, getting replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new MI captain ahead of IPL 2024 led to his downfall as a batter. While he started in most matches, even scoring a hundred against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium, Rohit was used as an ‘Impact Player’ during the fag end of the tournament. Besides his poor form this season, which has been continuing for a few years now, Rohit is feeling out of place following Pandya’s appointment as MI skipper has been worrying. However, he will still lead the Men in Blue in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas starting June 2, with Pandya playing his deputy. India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, co-hosts USA, Canada and Ireland. India will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5 and will next face Pakistan in the marquee clash on Sunday (June 9) in New York.

Rohit Sharma launches scathing attack on broadcaster for privacy breach, calls for ‘better sense to prevail’

Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher has revealed that he hasn't had many conversations with former skipper Rohit Sharma about the future. Boucher made the comments after MI's 18-run loss against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last league match on Friday, May 17. With the loss, MI finished the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the bottom with just four wins in 14 games.

“I said, ‘what’s next for Rohit Sharma?’ He said to me, ‘the (T20) World Cup’. (And) that’s perfect. That’s all I need to know about what Rohit Sharma’s future is. For me, he’s a master of his own destiny. It’s a big auction next season. Who knows what’s going to happen? We’ll just have to take each day as it comes,” Boucher said on Friday after MI's 10th loss of the season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-put-our-best-mumbai-indians-skipper-hardik-pandya-shares-views-on-horrible-season-as-skipper-722838">'Put our best...,' Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya shares views on horrible season as skipper</a>

“To be honest, there hasn’t been many conversations about Rohit’s future at all. I spoke to him last night or the night before, just to do a little review of the season,” he added.

Notably Rohit, under whom MI had won their all five titles, was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the skipper ahead of the 2024 season.

The batter also spoke on the disappointing season and said after the game: &nbsp;"Our season didn't go according to plan. We blame ourselves for this because we made too many mistakes during the season. We lost many games that we should have won, but that's the nature of the IPL. You get a few chances and when those chances come, you must grab them."

Rohit scored 417 runs in 14 games at an average of 32 and strike rate of 150 and acknowledged his failure as well. He, however, finished the season in style, scoring 68 off 38 balls but MI failed to chase the target of 215 and could manage only 196/6 in 20 overs.

Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher has revealed that he hasn't had many conversations with former skipper Rohit Sharma about the future. Boucher made the comments after MI's 18-run loss against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last league match on Friday, May 17.

Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher has revealed that he hasn't had many conversations with former skipper Rohit Sharma about the future. Boucher made the comments after MI's 18-run loss against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last league match on Friday, May 17. With the loss, MI finished the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the bottom with just four wins in 14 games. “I said, ‘what’s next for Rohit Sharma?’ He said to me, ‘the (T20) World Cup’. (And) that’s perfect. That’s all I need to know about what Rohit Sharma’s future is. For me, he’s a master of his own destiny. It’s a big auction next season. Who knows what’s going to happen? We’ll just have to take each day as it comes,” Boucher said on Friday after MI's 10th loss of the season. Also Read: 'Put our best...,' Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya shares views on horrible season as skipper “To be honest, there hasn’t been many conversations about Rohit’s future at all. I spoke to him last night or the night before, just to do a little review of the season,” he added. Notably Rohit, under whom MI had won their all five titles, was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the skipper ahead of the 2024 season. The batter also spoke on the disappointing season and said after the game: "Our season didn't go according to plan. We blame ourselves for this because we made too many mistakes during the season. We lost many games that we should have won, but that's the nature of the IPL. You get a few chances and when those chances come, you must grab them." Rohit scored 417 runs in 14 games at an average of 32 and strike rate of 150 and acknowledged his failure as well. He, however, finished the season in style, scoring 68 off 38 balls but MI failed to chase the target of 215 and could manage only 196/6 in 20 overs.

IPL 2024: Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher reveals 'what next for Rohit Sharma'

India and RCB legend Virat Kohli has backed his teammate Rohit Sharma in bashing the ‘Impact Player’ rule, saying it kills the balance between bat and ball. Kohli leads the run-scoring chart with over 600 runs in 13 contested matches this season, striking at over 155.

India and RCB legend Virat Kohli has backed his teammate Rohit Sharma in bashing the ‘Impact Player’ rule, saying it kills the balance between bat and ball. Kohli leads the run-scoring chart with over 600 runs in 13 contested matches this season, striking at over 155. Although he admitted that this season was slightly more exciting than previous editions, mostly because of that, the Indian legend pin-pointed the loopholes in this newest addition to the Indian Premier League. During an exclusive chat with Jio Cinema ahead of the marquee IPL 2024 clash between the RCB and CSK in Bengaluru, Kohli said he likes the idea of making this game a bit more entertaining by introducing such rules but rues that its impact is killing the balance. “I agree with Rohit. Entertainment is one aspect of the game, but there is no balance,” Kohli said on Jio Cinema. ALSO READ: ‘Biggest job in cricket but exhausting’ – Justin Langer on Team India’s head coach role Last month, former Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma was the first star figure to come out with his view on this new rule, saying it has reduced the importance of all-rounders in the team – a crucial aspect in any format. Besides, cricket legend and Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting also came hard on the Impact Player rule, saying it’s a nightmare for the coaches and the captains. “Bowlers are feeling like what they should do,” Kohli said. “We are playing a high level of cricket, and it should not be that dominant in my opinion. There is a beauty about having an equal balance between bat and ball,” he continued. ‘It helped a bit though’ While Kohli sounded sceptical about Impact Player rule’s future in the tournament, he admitted to making the most of it anyway. Like every team, his franchise also gets a chance to play an extra batter, and Kohli upped his game, playing at a strike rate of over 200 in the first six overs. “Not every team has a Bumrah (Jasprit) or the mystery of Rashid Khan,” he said. “I am telling you, with one extra batter, there is a reason I am playing with 200 plus strike rate in the Powerplays. I know there is a batsman waiting at No. 8 as well.” “I think it has disrupted the balance, and a lot of people are feeling this way not just me,” he added. Meanwhile, RCB needs to beat CSK to qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs.

IPL 2024: Kohli backs Rohit in bashing ‘Impact Player’ rule, says entertainment is fine but it kills balance

Former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma acknowledged that the team made many mistakes during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season which eventually cost them too much as they finished with just four wins. Sharma's comments came after MI's last game of the season, which they lost by 18 runs against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday, May 17.

"Our season didn't go according to plan. We blame ourselves for this because we made too many mistakes during the season. We lost many games that we should have won, but that's the nature of the IPL. You get a few chances and when those chances come, you must grab them," Rohit told the broadcasters after the game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-kohli-backs-rohit-in-bashing-impact-player-rule-says-entertainment-is-fine-but-its-kills-balance-722796">IPL 2024: Kohli backs Rohit in bashing ‘Impact Player’ rule, says entertainment is fine but its kills balance</a>

The batter, who scored 417 runs in 14 games at an average of 32 and strike rate of 150, acknowledged his failure as well.

"As a batter, I know I didn't live up to the standard. But, after playing for all these years, I know that if I overthink, I won't play well. All I try is to stay in a good mindset, in the right zone, keep practicing, and improve on all the flaws in my game. That's all I kept doing," he said.

Rohit, however, finished the season in style, scoring 68 off 38 balls but MI failed to chase the target of 215 and could manage only 196/6 in 20 overs.

Mumbai, who were being led by Hardik Pandya, finished last in the season with 10 losses in 14 games. They had started the season with three consecutive losses and could not recover from that. Three wins in next four games did give a glimpse of MI's return to form before four losses in the next four games rendered their season all but over.&nbsp;

The five-time champion could not even finish on a high, losing their last two league games as well.

Former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma acknowledged that the team made many mistakes during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season which eventually cost them too much as they finished with just four wins.

Former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma acknowledged that the team made many mistakes during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season which eventually cost them too much as they finished with just four wins. Sharma's comments came after MI's last game of the season, which they lost by 18 runs against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday, May 17. "Our season didn't go according to plan. We blame ourselves for this because we made too many mistakes during the season. We lost many games that we should have won, but that's the nature of the IPL. You get a few chances and when those chances come, you must grab them," Rohit told the broadcasters after the game. Also Read: IPL 2024: Kohli backs Rohit in bashing ‘Impact Player’ rule, says entertainment is fine but its kills balance The batter, who scored 417 runs in 14 games at an average of 32 and strike rate of 150, acknowledged his failure as well. "As a batter, I know I didn't live up to the standard. But, after playing for all these years, I know that if I overthink, I won't play well. All I try is to stay in a good mindset, in the right zone, keep practicing, and improve on all the flaws in my game. That's all I kept doing," he said. Rohit, however, finished the season in style, scoring 68 off 38 balls but MI failed to chase the target of 215 and could manage only 196/6 in 20 overs. Mumbai, who were being led by Hardik Pandya, finished last in the season with 10 losses in 14 games. They had started the season with three consecutive losses and could not recover from that. Three wins in next four games did give a glimpse of MI's return to form before four losses in the next four games rendered their season all but over. The five-time champion could not even finish on a high, losing their last two league games as well.

IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma reveals who to 'blame' for MI's horrible season

India will be playing the second semi-final in Guyana on June 27 in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, shall they reach the knockout stage. The news was confirmed by the cricket news website ESPNCricinfo, citing the ICC's playing conditions for the tournament. The semi-final will also not have a reserve day but an extension time of 250 minutes instead of 190 minutes for the first-semi-final and the final with a reserve day.

The main reason behind this could be the timings of the match. The first semi-final will be played in Trinidad at 8:30 pm local time on June 26 which is 6 am in India on June 27. The second semi-final, however, will start at 10:30 am local time which is 8 pm in India. The final, also a day game, will be played in Barbados at 10 am local time on June 29 which is 7:30 pm in India.

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As for no reserve day, the explanation could be the time gap between the second semi-final and the final which is just one day.

The game will also require the chasing teams to play at least 10 overs in order to declare a winner in both the semifinals and the final. The conditions for the last three games in the T20 World Cup are unlike rest of the game which require only five overs to be completed in the second innings for a winner to be declared. The tournament starts on June 2 with West Indies and the USA being the joint hosts.

A total of 20 teams have been divided in four groups with India being in group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and the host USA. India start their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before playing against Pakistan on June 9, the USA on June 12, and Canada on June 15. 
&nbsp;

India will be playing the second semi-final in Guyana on June 27 in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, shall they reach the knockout stage. The news was confirmed by the cricket news website ESPNCricinfo, citing the ICC's playing conditions for the tournament.

India will be playing the second semi-final in Guyana on June 27 in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, shall they reach the knockout stage. The news was confirmed by the cricket news website ESPNCricinfo, citing the ICC's playing conditions for the tournament. The semi-final will also not have a reserve day but an extension time of 250 minutes instead of 190 minutes for the first-semi-final and the final with a reserve day. The main reason behind this could be the timings of the match. The first semi-final will be played in Trinidad at 8:30 pm local time on June 26 which is 6 am in India on June 27. The second semi-final, however, will start at 10:30 am local time which is 8 pm in India. The final, also a day game, will be played in Barbados at 10 am local time on June 29 which is 7:30 pm in India. Also Read: BCCI eyeing CSK head coach Stephen Fleming as Rahul Dravid’s successor: Report As for no reserve day, the explanation could be the time gap between the second semi-final and the final which is just one day. The game will also require the chasing teams to play at least 10 overs in order to declare a winner in both the semifinals and the final. The conditions for the last three games in the T20 World Cup are unlike rest of the game which require only five overs to be completed in the second innings for a winner to be declared. The tournament starts on June 2 with West Indies and the USA being the joint hosts. A total of 20 teams have been divided in four groups with India being in group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and the host USA. India start their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before playing against Pakistan on June 9, the USA on June 12, and Canada on June 15.

2024 T20 World Cup: India get second semi-final on June 27 with no reserve day | Read Why

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month. The current Indian skipper has managed only 349 runs in 13 games at an average of 29.08. Out of 349, he scored 105* in Mumbai Indians (MI)'s 20-run home loss versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) early in the tournament. Following his ton, he has struggled to get going, not even crossing the 40-run mark since then.

Moreover, Rohit has crossed the double-digit mark only twice in his last six outings for Hardik Pandya-led MI, who were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race this season. Speaking on Rohit's form, Ganguly said -- ahead of his side Delhi Capitals (DC) knockout clash versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in New Delhi on Tuesday (May 14) -- that Hitman is a 'big tournament player' who will do well in the upcoming T20 WC, in the West Indies and USA in June.

<h2>'Rohit plays well in big tournaments'</h2>

Talking to the reporters, Ganguly said, "India is a very good team. Rohit will play well in the World Cup. He plays well in big tournaments. At the big stage, he will be fine."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/strongest-contenders-to-lift-ipl-2024-trophy-harbhajan-singh-after-kkr-confirms-a-spot-in-qualifier-1-721295">'Strongest contenders to lift IPL 2024 trophy': Harbhajan Singh after KKR confirm spot in Qualifier 1</a>

Rohit has second-most runs by an Indian in the T20 WC history -- 963 in eight editions (after Virat Kohli's 1,143 -- the overall top run-getter). However, he hasn't dominated any of the previous editions. Nonetheless, he was in top gear in the last ICC event, i.e. the home ODI World Cup last year. Ending with 597 runs in 11 games, Rohit will be eager to replicate the same in the upcoming T20 WC.

Rohit will lead India in the mega event. Further, Ganguly has backed Kohli and Hitman to open for the Men in Blue. While Rohit is not in good touch, Kohli is the leading run-getter in IPL 2024 -- with 661 runs in 13 games, including 5 fifties and a ton.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month. The current Indian skipper has managed only 349 runs in 13 games at an average of 29.08. Out of 349, he scored 105* in Mumbai Indians (MI)'s 20-run home loss versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) early in the tournament. Following his ton, he has struggled to get going, not even crossing the 40-run mark since then. Moreover, Rohit has crossed the double-digit mark only twice in his last six outings for Hardik Pandya-led MI, who were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race this season. Speaking on Rohit's form, Ganguly said -- ahead of his side Delhi Capitals (DC) knockout clash versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in New Delhi on Tuesday (May 14) -- that Hitman is a 'big tournament player' who will do well in the upcoming T20 WC, in the West Indies and USA in June. 'Rohit plays well in big tournaments' Talking to the reporters, Ganguly said, "India is a very good team. Rohit will play well in the World Cup. He plays well in big tournaments. At the big stage, he will be fine." Also read: 'Strongest contenders to lift IPL 2024 trophy': Harbhajan Singh after KKR confirm spot in Qualifier 1 Rohit has second-most runs by an Indian in the T20 WC history -- 963 in eight editions (after Virat Kohli's 1,143 -- the overall top run-getter). However, he hasn't dominated any of the previous editions. Nonetheless, he was in top gear in the last ICC event, i.e. the home ODI World Cup last year. Ending with 597 runs in 11 games, Rohit will be eager to replicate the same in the upcoming T20 WC. Rohit will lead India in the mega event. Further, Ganguly has backed Kohli and Hitman to open for the Men in Blue. While Rohit is not in good touch, Kohli is the leading run-getter in IPL 2024 -- with 661 runs in 13 games, including 5 fifties and a ton.

‘Big tournament player’ Rohit Sharma will be fine in T20 WC, reckons ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly

All is not well in the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp as factions continue to emerge ever since Hardik Pandya returned to the franchise as the new captain. It has now been reported that Rohit Sharma and Pandya are not even practising with each other in the middle.

All is not well in the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp as factions continue to emerge ever since Hardik Pandya returned to the franchise as the new captain. It has now been reported that Rohit Sharma and Pandya are not even practising with each other in the middle. A report in Dainik Jagran has claimed that Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma got up and left the space as soon as Hardik came out to bat in the nets. The incident transpired before the match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which MI lost after failing to chase a 158-run target. Prior to the match, Rohit was sitting on the sidelines with Suryakumar and Tilak when Hardik came out to bat. Seeing the captain walk out for practice, the trio reportedly got up and walked to the other side of the ground. Meeting held to discuss Pandya's captaincy Additionally, Rohit's chat with the KKR assistant coach Abhishek Nayar went viral on social media, showing that there was friction in the MI dressing camp. The chat seemingly confirmed that it was Rohit's last year with MI as he sought to move to a new franchise during the mega auction. Another recent report in Indian Express, citing sources close to MI claimed that senior Indian players of the team, viz. Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit and Suryakumar held a meeting, voicing their displeasure over Pandya's style of captaincy, suggesting that the team had lost its joy and morale as the season dragged on. The source said the meeting was necessitated as the team that was captained by Rohit for the last 10 years, was still coming to terms with the change of guard. “These are regular teething problems for a team that sees leadership change. This happens in sports all the time,” an MI official said. Also read | Rift brewing in MI? Star Indian players hold meeting to discuss Hardik Pandya's captaincy Pandya faces criticism Pandya has invited criticism from pundits for not having a Plan B when things go south for him. Additionally, his tendency to single out players has not gone down well within the MI camp. Notably, after MI's loss to Delhi Capitals, Pandya said Tilak should have targeted Axar Patel more and attributed the defeat to a lack of game knowledge. However, Pandya's criticism felt misplaced as Varma remains Mumbai's highest run-scorer this season and had a fantastic inning, scoring 63 runs off of 32 deliveries. MI will now face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday (May 17) at the Wankhede Stadium in what will be their final game of the season. (With inputs from agencies)

MI camp in disarray? Star players avoid Hardik Pandya as he comes to bat in nets: Report

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The mega event kicks off in the West Indies and USA in June with India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. This will be Rohit's second successive T20 WC as the Indian captain. In the 2022 edition, India ended as semifinalists under Hitman's captaincy in the marquee event held in Australia.

As per a report carried out by Dainik Jagran, Rohit is likely to bid adieu to T20Is and the T20 WC could prove to be his last few appearances in the format. Meanwhile, the report further revealed that Hardik Pandya was picked in India's T20 WC squad not for his performances, which have been ordinary in IPL 2024, but for the fact that the BCCI is looking at him as the future T20I skipper (prompting the BCCI selectors to not only pick Hardik but name him Rohit's deputy in the squad).

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While these are all reports, it will be interesting to see if any BCCI senior official or someone from the Indian team management reacts to all these rumours. In another report, it is believed that the BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit weren't in favour of including Hardik in the T20 WC squad. Hardik hasn't featured for India since his injury during the ODI WC at home last year. In IPL 2024, he marked his return to competitive cricket but the all-rounder has failed to make a strong impact with both bat and ball.&nbsp;

However, Agarkar and Rohit were pressured to include Hardik in the mix. While the report didn't mention what this pressure was and whom it came from, it is believed that it came from the upper brass within the BCCI who is looking at Hardik as the future Indian captain -- at least in T20Is.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The mega event kicks off in the West Indies and USA in June with India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. This will be Rohit's second successive T20 WC as the Indian captain. In the 2022 edition, India ended as semifinalists under Hitman's captaincy in the marquee event held in Australia. As per a report carried out by Dainik Jagran, Rohit is likely to bid adieu to T20Is and the T20 WC could prove to be his last few appearances in the format. Meanwhile, the report further revealed that Hardik Pandya was picked in India's T20 WC squad not for his performances, which have been ordinary in IPL 2024, but for the fact that the BCCI is looking at him as the future T20I skipper (prompting the BCCI selectors to not only pick Hardik but name him Rohit's deputy in the squad). Also read: Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports While these are all reports, it will be interesting to see if any BCCI senior official or someone from the Indian team management reacts to all these rumours. In another report, it is believed that the BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit weren't in favour of including Hardik in the T20 WC squad. Hardik hasn't featured for India since his injury during the ODI WC at home last year. In IPL 2024, he marked his return to competitive cricket but the all-rounder has failed to make a strong impact with both bat and ball. However, Agarkar and Rohit were pressured to include Hardik in the mix. While the report didn't mention what this pressure was and whom it came from, it is believed that it came from the upper brass within the BCCI who is looking at Hardik as the future Indian captain -- at least in T20Is.

Rohit set to retire from T20Is post T20 World Cup, Hardik added in India squad on ‘pressure’ - Report

Indian cricket coach Rahul Dravid will have his tasks cut out during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1. While ensuring the Men in Blue are successful in their quest to win an ICC tournament would be his primary job, Dravid would also have to bring Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya together in a happier space.

Indian cricket coach Rahul Dravid will have his tasks cut out during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1. While ensuring the Men in Blue are successful in their quest to win an ICC tournament would be his primary job, Dravid would also have to bring Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya together in a happier space. Although there is no rift per se, several social media reports suggested that both didn't share the best times in Mumbai Indians’ dressing room since Pandya’s appointment as the new captain. Bhogle wrote on the microblogging website X, saying he is astounded at how Mumbai performed this season, how despite having been one of the favourites at the start, they failed to make the most of this chance. He wrote, “The capitulation of #MI has to be the story of the tournament. A very large no of us believed they would make the playoffs. But given that it has not happened, we must look at it from an India perspective. Rahul Dravid's biggest immediate job would be to get two key players, the captain and the vice-captain, back in a good space and, critically, in form.” The capitulation of #MI has to be the story of the tournament. A very large no of us believed they would make the play-offs. But given that it has not happened, we must look at it from an India perspective. Rahul Dravid's biggest immediate job would be to get two key players, the… — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) May 12, 2024 × Playing their second-last game this season at the Eden Gardens against KKR the other night, MI lost by 18 runs, losing their ninth game this season. Although former captain Rohit is terribly out of touch since scoring a hundred against CSK at home, captain Pandya also struggled in every aspect of the game, including leadership. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni to play his last match? CSK requests fans to stay back after clash vs RR Meanwhile, since Pandya was named Rohit’s successor at MI, the situation inside the dressing room has been a bit gloomy. Although they worked and trained as a team, several media reports suggested something else. Besides, Mumbai Indians’ performance dipped this season, with none of their star players, barring Suryakumar Yadav, managing to put up runs on the board. Jasprit Bumrah was their top bowler once again, but none could match his standards, leaving the side’s chances of making the top four in the mud. India gets ready for T20 WC India is drawn in Group A alongside co-hosts USA, Canada, Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan. The marquee match between two Asian giants will take place in New York on June 9.

T20 WC: Coach Dravid must put Rohit and Hardik back in good space, reckons Harsha Bhogle

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya gracefully accepted his side’s defeat at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, saying they didn’t apply themselves batting-wise despite sitting in a comfortable position early on in the chase.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya gracefully accepted his side’s defeat at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, saying they didn’t apply themselves batting-wise despite sitting in a comfortable position early on in the chase. Pandya said the openers laid the foundation, but with the middle-order collapse, they fell behind in the run chase. Moreover, considering the form of two T20 World Cup-bound players – Rohit Sharma and the skipper himself, it adds to the worry for Indian Cricket fans. Mumbai bowled first after winning the toss, restricting KKR to 157 for seven in 16 overs, with Jasprit Bumrah and Piyush Chawla returning with two wickets each. The travelling MI side got off to a flyer with Rohit and Ishan Kishan adding 65 runs inside seven overs. However, losing five wickets for 27 runs later cost MI, as they failed to pick up momentum and go for the win. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Shreyas Iyer’s manifestation worked as KKR becomes 1st team to qualify for playoff “As a batting unit, the foundation was there, but we could not capitalise, and that cost us. The wicket was tacky, so momentum was important, but after that, we couldn't capitalise,” Hardik said during the post-match presser. “Their score was par, given the conditions, I thought the bowlers did well. When the balls returned from the boundary, it hit the cover and was wet. They did well. It seemed par but was a winning total. Just want to go and enjoy, play good cricket. That's been the motto from the start, but we haven't played enough good cricket,” the new captain continued. Rohit’s form a worry for Team India Meanwhile, Rohit hasn’t looked in his element since completing his first hundred this season against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede. Not only did he register a series of low scores, but the fashion he got out in those games was worrying. Something similar happened against KKR when he got out, caught while playing a half-hearted sweep shot off Varun. Considering his current form heading into the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1, the picture looks gloomy with the question of how he will find form during the tournament. Besides, MI captain Pandya’s overall performance has been below par this season. In 13 matches played, Pandya has scored just 200 runs at a strike rate of under 145, with 46 being his best. With the ball in hand, Pandya has picked 11 wickets at an economy of over ten, sending worrying signs to the Indian Team fans.

IPL: Pandya hails MI bowlers in KKR defeat but seniors’ poor form worries fans as T20 World Cup looms

Senior members of Mumbai Indians (MI) have raised concerns over the future of the franchise after the team crashed out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season under captain Hardik Pandya.

Senior members of Mumbai Indians (MI) have raised concerns over the future of the franchise after the team crashed out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season under captain Hardik Pandya. MI old guards Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah among others held a meeting to assess the future of the team, according to a report in The Indian Express. The senior players have voiced their displeasure over Pandya's style of captaincy, suggesting that the team had lost its joy and morale as the season continued. The meeting was held to discuss what the star players felt was the fundamental issue. Citing sources close to MI, the report stated that the meeting was necessitated as the team that was captained by Rohit for the last 10 years, was still coming to terms with the change of guard. “These are regular teething problems for a team that sees leadership change. This happens in sports all the time,” an MI official said. Also read | IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter Pandya faces criticism Pandya has invited criticism from pundits for not having a Plan B when things get south for him. Additionally, his tendency to single out players has not gone down well within the MI camp. Notably, after MI's loss against the Delhi Capitals, Pandya said Tilak Varma should have targeted Axar Patel more and attributed the defeat to a lack of game knowledge. A left-hand batter against a left-arm spinner is regarded as a great match-up for the former to score runs. However, Pandya's criticism felt misplaced as Varma remains Mumbai's highest scorer this season and had a fantastic inning, scoring 63 runs off of 32 deliveries. Owing to the continuous failure of the team, former Australian captain Michael Clarke opined that the five-time champions were struggling due to the factions that had developed. “I don’t know. I think it's wishful thinking for Mumbai this entire IPL. I think there’s a lot more going on than what we are seeing on the outside and you can’t have that many good players and perform this inconsistently,” said Clarke. “I think there are different groups inside that changing room and something is not working, they are not gelling together, they are not playing as a team,” he added. MI will now face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Saturday (May 11) at the Eden Gardens in what will be their penultimate game of the season. (With inputs from agencies)

Rift brewing in MI? Star Indian players hold meeting to discuss Hardik Pandya's captaincy

Match 56 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Tuesday (May 7),&nbsp;saw the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) edge past Rajasthan Royals (RR) to remain in the playoffs race. Asked to bat first&nbsp;at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, the home side made 221 for 8 riding on Jake Fraser-McGurk's 50, Abhishek Porel's 65 and Tristan Stubbs' 20-ball 41. In reply, Sanju Samson-led RR managed 201 for 8 despite their captain's majestic 46-ball 86. Despite two back-to-back losses, RR remain at the top with 16 points and are almost there in the playoffs.&nbsp;

During his brilliant knock, the right-hander became the fastest Indian to the landmark of 200 IPL sixes. He got to the feat in his 159th innings to break MS Dhoni's record, who attained the record&nbsp;in his 165th innings. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Suresh Raina are third, fourth and fifth respectively.&nbsp;

Notably, Samson is now the 10th batter to hit 200 or more IPL sixes. The other batters featured in this list are Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, David Warner, Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-sanju-samson-given-out-controversially-in-dc-contest-argues-with-on-field-umpires-watch-719111">IPL 2024: Sanju Samson given out controversially in DC contest, argues with on-field umpires - WATCH</a>

<h2>Fastest Indians to 200 IPL sixes</h2>

Sanju Samson – 159 innings

MS Dhoni – 165 innings

Virat Kohli – 180 innings

Rohit Sharma – 185 innings

Suresh Raina – 193 innings

Samson has been very impressive in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, with 471 runs in 11 games at an average of 67.29 and a strike rate of 163.54. He is the third-highest run-getter at present. Talking about his knock versus DC, the wicketkeeper-batter looked in his elements from the word go and hit 8 fours and 6 sixes, at a strike-rate of 186.96, before&nbsp;controversially getting out in the 16th over&nbsp;while trying to hit a six off Mukesh Kumar's bowling.&nbsp;

After Samson's fall, RR fell behind and lost by 20 runs but still have 16 points from 11 encounters.&nbsp;

Match 56 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Tuesday (May 7), saw the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) edge past Rajasthan Royals (RR) to remain in the playoffs race.

Match 56 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Tuesday (May 7), saw the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) edge past Rajasthan Royals (RR) to remain in the playoffs race. Asked to bat first at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, the home side made 221 for 8 riding on Jake Fraser-McGurk's 50, Abhishek Porel's 65 and Tristan Stubbs' 20-ball 41. In reply, Sanju Samson-led RR managed 201 for 8 despite their captain's majestic 46-ball 86. Despite two back-to-back losses, RR remain at the top with 16 points and are almost there in the playoffs. During his brilliant knock, the right-hander became the fastest Indian to the landmark of 200 IPL sixes. He got to the feat in his 159th innings to break MS Dhoni's record, who attained the record in his 165th innings. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Suresh Raina are third, fourth and fifth respectively. Notably, Samson is now the 10th batter to hit 200 or more IPL sixes. The other batters featured in this list are Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, David Warner, Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell. Also read: IPL 2024: Sanju Samson given out controversially in DC contest, argues with on-field umpires - WATCH Fastest Indians to 200 IPL sixes Sanju Samson – 159 innings MS Dhoni – 165 innings Virat Kohli – 180 innings Rohit Sharma – 185 innings Suresh Raina – 193 innings Samson has been very impressive in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, with 471 runs in 11 games at an average of 67.29 and a strike rate of 163.54. He is the third-highest run-getter at present. Talking about his knock versus DC, the wicketkeeper-batter looked in his elements from the word go and hit 8 fours and 6 sixes, at a strike-rate of 186.96, before controversially getting out in the 16th over while trying to hit a six off Mukesh Kumar's bowling. After Samson's fall, RR fell behind and lost by 20 runs but still have 16 points from 11 encounters.

IPL 2024: Sanju Samson breaks MS Dhoni’s record, becomes fastest Indian to 200 IPL sixes during 86 vs DC

Match 55 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by seven wickets, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, in pursuit of 174 on Monday (May 6). Hardik Pandya-led MI opted to bowl first and rode on the captain and Piyush Chawla's three-fers to restrict SRH to 173 for 8 before Suryakumar Yadav's 102 not-out propelled his side to a much-needed win after they were reeling at 31 for 3 at one stage.

During the MI run-chase, Rohit Sharma departed for a 5-ball 4. While Hitman started the season on a decent note, including a ton versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK),&nbsp;his scores in the last five games&nbsp;read 4, 11, 4, 8 and 6 (adding the SRH game as well). After his dismissal, a video surfaced online where the former MI skipper Rohit was seen sitting in sheer disappointment in the dugout. Fans speculated that the Indian captain was crying after his string of poor scores. Here is the video:

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Rohit Sharma crying in the dressing room. <a href="https://t.co/GRU5uF3fpc">pic.twitter.com/GRU5uF3fpc</a>
— Gaurav (@Melbourne__82) <a href="https://twitter.com/Melbourne__82/status/1787531450843062395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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🥺😭😭<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a><a href="https://t.co/LOgrN6pnqz">pic.twitter.com/LOgrN6pnqz</a>
— ⎊ᴘᴇᴀᴄᴇ ᴍ🅰️🅰️ᴋᴇʀ➍➎🦅 (@MoonKnightMadhu) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoonKnightMadhu/status/1787547799380533731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rohit sharma crying 🤣🤣 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/p5362oGcl6">pic.twitter.com/p5362oGcl6</a>
— Kohli sensation 🪽 (@kohlisensationn) <a href="https://twitter.com/kohlisensationn/status/1787526437937062260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-srh-give-19-extras-inside-powerplay-vs-mi-most-for-any-team-in-ipl-history-718622">IPL 2024: SRH give away most extras inside powerplay in crushing loss to Mumbai Indians</a>

Rohit has so far managed 330 runs in 12 games in IPL 2024. It is crucial for the Indian captain to remain in good touch at the business end of the IPL season, which will soon be followed by the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA in June.&nbsp;

Rohit is set to lead the 15-man Indian squad in the upcoming T20 WC. India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland. Even though Hardik-led MI have very slim chances of entering the IPL 2024 playoffs, Indian cricket fans will hope for Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Surya to remain in form in the final stage of the ongoing IPL season.

Match 55 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by seven wickets, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, in pursuit of 174 on Monday (May 6).

Match 55 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by seven wickets, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, in pursuit of 174 on Monday (May 6). Hardik Pandya-led MI opted to bowl first and rode on the captain and Piyush Chawla's three-fers to restrict SRH to 173 for 8 before Suryakumar Yadav's 102 not-out propelled his side to a much-needed win after they were reeling at 31 for 3 at one stage. During the MI run-chase, Rohit Sharma departed for a 5-ball 4. While Hitman started the season on a decent note, including a ton versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK), his scores in the last five games read 4, 11, 4, 8 and 6 (adding the SRH game as well). After his dismissal, a video surfaced online where the former MI skipper Rohit was seen sitting in sheer disappointment in the dugout. Fans speculated that the Indian captain was crying after his string of poor scores. Here is the video: Rohit Sharma crying in the dressing room. pic.twitter.com/GRU5uF3fpc — Gaurav (@Melbourne__82) May 6, 2024 × 🥺😭😭#RohitSharmapic.twitter.com/LOgrN6pnqz — ⎊ᴘᴇᴀᴄᴇ ᴍ🅰️🅰️ᴋᴇʀ➍➎🦅 (@MoonKnightMadhu) May 6, 2024 × Rohit sharma crying 🤣🤣 #RohitSharma #MIvSRH pic.twitter.com/p5362oGcl6 — Kohli sensation 🪽 (@kohlisensationn) May 6, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: SRH give away most extras inside powerplay in crushing loss to Mumbai Indians Rohit has so far managed 330 runs in 12 games in IPL 2024. It is crucial for the Indian captain to remain in good touch at the business end of the IPL season, which will soon be followed by the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA in June. Rohit is set to lead the 15-man Indian squad in the upcoming T20 WC. India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland. Even though Hardik-led MI have very slim chances of entering the IPL 2024 playoffs, Indian cricket fans will hope for Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Surya to remain in form in the final stage of the ongoing IPL season.

IPL 2024: Rohit's MI dugout video goes viral, fans speculate Hitman cried after early dismissal vs SRH

Former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma played as Impact Sub in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 3 due to back stiffness. The information was confirmed by his teammate Piyush Chawla at the post-match presentation.

"He just had a mild back stiffness so it was just a precautionary thing," Chawla said.

It was another sad day in the field for the five-time champions as they lost their eighth game&nbsp;out of 11 played this season so far. The loss meant that MI are now hanging by a thread to make it to the playoffs. The only silver lining for MI in the match was Chawla overtaking Dwayne Bravo to become the second highest wicket taker in the league.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipls-million-dollar-baby-mitchell-starc-expects-t20-world-cup-to-be-different-ball-game-717916">Impact Player Rule: IPL’s million-dollar baby Mitchell Starc expects T20 World Cup to be different ball game</a>

Talking about the milestone, Chawla said: &nbsp;"It has been a beautiful journey because IPL started 17 years back and at that time nobody gave that much preference to the spinners, but now if you see that in top few wicket-takers from India are all the spinners, [R] Ashwin, Yuzi [Yuzvendra Chahal], myself, so it's a good feeling."

As for the season, the spinner had no illusions about where the team stands and what's left to play for in the rest of the season: "For the pride and the reputation," he said, "because sometimes when you enter on the field, you don't think whether you are going to qualify or you are not going to qualify. You have to play for your name and that's what we are playing for."

In the match, KKR posted a modest 169 on a two-paced Wankhede pitch, thanks largely to Venkatesh Iyer's 70 off 52 and Manish Pandey's 31-ball 42.

Chasing the total, MI was never in the hunt except during Suryakumar Yadav's 35-ball 56-run innings. They were eventually bowled out for 145, losing the match by 24 runs.

Former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma played as Impact Sub in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 3 due to back stiffness.

Former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma played as Impact Sub in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 3 due to back stiffness. The information was confirmed by his teammate Piyush Chawla at the post-match presentation. "He just had a mild back stiffness so it was just a precautionary thing," Chawla said. It was another sad day in the field for the five-time champions as they lost their eighth game out of 11 played this season so far. The loss meant that MI are now hanging by a thread to make it to the playoffs. The only silver lining for MI in the match was Chawla overtaking Dwayne Bravo to become the second highest wicket taker in the league. Also Read: Impact Player Rule: IPL’s million-dollar baby Mitchell Starc expects T20 World Cup to be different ball game Talking about the milestone, Chawla said: "It has been a beautiful journey because IPL started 17 years back and at that time nobody gave that much preference to the spinners, but now if you see that in top few wicket-takers from India are all the spinners, [R] Ashwin, Yuzi [Yuzvendra Chahal], myself, so it's a good feeling." As for the season, the spinner had no illusions about where the team stands and what's left to play for in the rest of the season: "For the pride and the reputation," he said, "because sometimes when you enter on the field, you don't think whether you are going to qualify or you are not going to qualify. You have to play for your name and that's what we are playing for." In the match, KKR posted a modest 169 on a two-paced Wankhede pitch, thanks largely to Venkatesh Iyer's 70 off 52 and Manish Pandey's 31-ball 42. Chasing the total, MI was never in the hunt except during Suryakumar Yadav's 35-ball 56-run innings. They were eventually bowled out for 145, losing the match by 24 runs.

IPL 2024: Why Rohit Sharma played as Impact Player in MI vs KKR? Read inside

India captain and former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma met Rinku Singh ahead of MI vs KKR blockbuster tie in IPL 2024 at the Wankhede Stadium. Following the presser in Mumbai on India’s T20 World Cup squad selection, where Rohit and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed several topics, including the exclusion of Rinku from the final 15, Rohit had a word with the KKR finisher during the training session.

India captain and former Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma met Rinku Singh ahead of MI vs KKR blockbuster tie in IPL 2024 at the Wankhede Stadium. Following the presser in Mumbai on India’s T20 World Cup squad selection, where Rohit and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed several topics, including the exclusion of Rinku from the final 15, Rohit had a word with the KKR finisher during the training session. The MI’s official account posted the video on their social media handles. You can watch the video here – 💙 🫂 💜#MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians #MIvKKR pic.twitter.com/Uy0E9yqvOh — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) May 3, 2024 × Meanwhile, former Australia great and commentator Tom Moody has hailed Rohit for reaching out to Rinku and greeting him informally ahead of the massive game at Wankhede. Moody said that was great leadership from Rohit as it's never easy to have such conversations with the player who failed to make it to the final squad. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Can Mumbai Indians still qualify for playoffs despite winning only three games? Let's find out "That's great leadership right there. Making sure you're upfront and honest. It's easier to speak to someone when they're included in the squad, it's always hard to speak to someone who has been left out,” Moody said. "That's why Rohit Sharma is so highly regarded around the playing group. He is a very good leader. He's got those soft skills, which are so important around communication," he continued. Moody explains the team selection call Meanwhile, Agarkar replied to the question about Rinku Singh’s absence during the presser, saying it was the toughest call they had to make, including dropping Shubman Gill from the squad for the T20 World Cup. "Probably the toughest thing we have had to do. He has done nothing wrong, nor has Shubman Gill. It's again the combinations. Like Rohit said, we are not sure about what conditions we will get. We have tried to have enough options. There are a couple of wrist spinners, Chahal and Kuldeep to give Rohit more options," Agarkar said in the presser in Mumbai. Speaking on the same lines, Moody said irrespective of how many runs Rinku scores from now in the remainder of this tournament, his inclusion in the final 15 looks dicey. Moody also backed Agarkar, saying the leadership group decided to prioritise team balance, and they are right in doing so. "For Rinku Singh, it doesn't matter how many runs he gets in the rest of the IPL, it has to do with the balance of the side, and Ajit Agarkar was actually clear in the way he explained it." "Rinku Singh has been left out because they want the extra all-rounder in Axar Patel to give them the flexibility around that No.7 spot and also the option of playing three spinners. It has nothing else to do with Rinku," Moody said.

IPL 2024: Rohit meets Rinku ahead of MI-KKR tie at Wankhede as Tom Moody calls it ‘great leadership’

In a detailed presser on Thursday (May 2) in Mumbai, India Captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar discussed various topics, including growing concerns around star batter Virat Kohli’s T20 strike rate.

In a detailed presser on Thursday (May 2) in Mumbai, India Captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar discussed various topics, including growing concerns around star batter Virat Kohli’s T20 strike rate. Despite plenty of talk on how Kohli slows down as his inning progresses in this format with the social media filled with stats around that, Agarkar said the leadership group didn’t even feel the need to discuss that while picking the 2024 T20 World Cup squad. Addressing questions around the same, Agarkar said Virat has been in top-notch form and was one of the first names on the team sheet for the 20-team tournament. Agarkar, a former T20 World Cup winner, backed Kohli, saying experience plays a huge role on such stages, and that is where Virat comes into the picture. ALSO READ: Core team for T20 World Cup was decided before IPL 2024, reveals Rohit Sharma “We have not been discussing it (Virat Kohli’s strike rate). He has been in great form; no concerns there at all. You are still going to a World Cup, there is still a gap there. That’s where experience does matter a lot," said Agarkar. “If the tournament turns out like the IPL. If 220 (pitch) plays like 220, we have the skills. At the end of the day, when you turn up for a World Cup, the pressure is different,” Agarkar said of Kohli’s strike rate and selection for the T20 World Cup," he further added. Kohli bashes doubters Following remaining unbeaten against Gujarat Titans in a successful run chase, Kohli, who scored 70 off 44 balls, bashed the ones who kept questioning his commitment to the team in the name of poor strike rate. After the game, which RCB won by nine wickets – their third thus far this season, Kohli said those who sit in a box and talk about his T20 strike rate haven’t been in his situation. “All the people who talk about strike rates and me not playing spin well are the ones talking about this stuff. For me, it’s about winning games for the team, and there’s a reason why you’ve done it for 15 years, you’ve done this day in and day out, you’ve won games for your teams,” Kohli said after helping his team win against GT. “I’m not quite sure if you haven’t been in that situation yourself, to sit and talk about the game from the box. For me, people can talk about their assumptions day in and day out, but those who have done (it) day in and day out, they know what’s happening, and it’s a kind of muscle memory for me now,” the India star continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, Kohli is the second-highest run-getter in IPL 2024, with 500 runs in ten matches and a strike rate of 147.49.

Rohit, Agarkar not worried about Virat Kohli’s T20 form, refuse to discuss his ‘strike rate’

Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar revealed that IPL performances had less to do with the squad announcement for the 2024 T20 World Cup, as the selectors and the leadership group had already thought of the core team before the ongoing edition of the cash-rich league got underway.

Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar revealed that IPL performances had less to do with the squad announcement for the 2024 T20 World Cup, as the selectors and the leadership group had already thought of the core team before the ongoing edition of the cash-rich league got underway. Following naming the final 15 for the 20-team-tournament starting June 2 in the Caribbean and the USA, Rohit and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media in Mumbai on Thursday (May 2). Reflecting on the squad selection for the marquee event, Rohit said considering India is not playing any T20I in the lead-up to the tournament, and with the IPL presenting the only chance for the chosen players to get match practice, the leadership group decided on the core group and the playing XI in their heads before IPL 2024. He added that there were intense talks and behind-the-scene preparations for the T20 World Cup during the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: 'He has done nothing...': Ajit Agarkar on Rinku Singh's exclusion from T20 WC squad "We sort of make your playing XI in your mind and try and work around it. A lot of the prep and the talk happen during the IPL, and a lot of these guys have been playing this format for a while. It's not like there's anyone new. They all have been playing international cricket and the IPL. The talk of what our 15 was going to be like started much before the IPL,” Rohit said. IPL is not the yardstick for selection With 70-80% of the squad already decided, the selectors were looking at IPL 2024 performances for those remaining places up for grabs. While most selections are on expected lines, the addition of Shivam Dube, Yuzvendra Chahal and most likely that of Yashasvi Jaiswal had more to do with their IPL 2024 outings. "We just had to look at a few individuals during the IPL. In the IPL, the performance changes every day, and you can't really change your plan around it. We had an idea of what our core group, 70-80 per cent of the squad before the IPL. And a few changes after that, we were prepared for that as well," Rohit added. As far as fans are concerned, they were shocked to see Rinku Singh’s absence from the main squad, with the BCCI having him on board as part of the travelling reserves. However, like all participating teams, India can make amends to their final 15 till May 24. Here is India’s squad for 2024 T20 World Cup – Rohit Sharma (Captain), Hardik Pandya (Vice Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohd. Siraj

Core team for T20 World Cup was decided before IPL 2024, reveals Rohit Sharma

Indian men's cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has refused to divulge the decision behind including four spinners in the T20 World Cup squad. Sharma alongside BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media in Mumbai on Thursday (May 2), a little over 48 hours after the squad was first announced.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Rohit said it was on his insistence that the selectors picked four spinners.&nbsp;

"I don't want to go too much into detail on it, I'm sure opposition captains are listening to thisI definitely wanted four spinners. We've&nbsp;played a lot of cricket there [West Indies], we know what the conditions are like.&nbsp;The match probably starts at 10-10:30 in the morning. There is a little bit of technical aspect involved in this," said Rohit.&nbsp;

"Maybe in the first press conference when I do in the West Indies, I'll give more detail on this. I am not going to say it in public&nbsp;now but I'll definitely say it there," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/you-can-only-pick-15-ajit-agarkar-on-rinku-singhs-exclusion-from-t20-wc-squad-717417">Also read |&nbsp;'He has done nothing...': Ajit Agarkar on Rinku Singh's exclusion from T20 WC squad</a>

India have picked two wrist spinners in Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal while&nbsp;left-arm spin allrounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel form the other half of the spin quartet. However, the decision to go with four spinners has&nbsp;drawn the ire of fans who questioned if Rinku Singh's place was compromised due to Rohit's belief.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I wanted four spinners for sure. With two of the spinners being allrounders who can bat, Axar and Jadeja, and two attacking spinners - Kuldeep and Chahal - it gives you the balance in the spin department. Based on the team composition of the opposition we can decide what we want to play with," Rohit further explained.&nbsp;

<h2>Agarkar explains Rinku's exclusion</h2>

Quizzed about Rinku's exclusion from the squad, Agarkar reiterated that he wanted to give ample spin bowling options to Rohit for the slow decks in the West Indies.&nbsp;

"Toughest thing we have had to do. He [Rinku]&nbsp;has done nothing wrong or for that matter Shubman Gill. It is about the combination...we are not sure about the conditions we will get," said Agarkar.

"We wanted to try and have enough options. There are&nbsp;a couple of wrist spinners included - Chahal and Kuldeep to give Rohit more options. Axar, again, a batting allrounder or rather bowling allrounder," he added.&nbsp;

The World Cup gets underway on June 2 while India open their campaign against Ireland on June 5 at&nbsp;Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, currently under development in New York.&nbsp;

India squad:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian men's cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has refused to divulge the decision behind including four spinners in the T20 World Cup squad. Sharma alongside BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media in Mumbai on Thursday (May 2), a little over 48 hours after the squad was first announced.

Indian men's cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has refused to divulge the decision behind including four spinners in the T20 World Cup squad. Sharma alongside BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media in Mumbai on Thursday (May 2), a little over 48 hours after the squad was first announced. During the press conference, Rohit said it was on his insistence that the selectors picked four spinners. "I don't want to go too much into detail on it, I'm sure opposition captains are listening to thisI definitely wanted four spinners. We've played a lot of cricket there [West Indies], we know what the conditions are like. The match probably starts at 10-10:30 in the morning. There is a little bit of technical aspect involved in this," said Rohit. "Maybe in the first press conference when I do in the West Indies, I'll give more detail on this. I am not going to say it in public now but I'll definitely say it there," he added. Also read | 'He has done nothing...': Ajit Agarkar on Rinku Singh's exclusion from T20 WC squad India have picked two wrist spinners in Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal while left-arm spin allrounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel form the other half of the spin quartet. However, the decision to go with four spinners has drawn the ire of fans who questioned if Rinku Singh's place was compromised due to Rohit's belief. "I wanted four spinners for sure. With two of the spinners being allrounders who can bat, Axar and Jadeja, and two attacking spinners - Kuldeep and Chahal - it gives you the balance in the spin department. Based on the team composition of the opposition we can decide what we want to play with," Rohit further explained. Agarkar explains Rinku's exclusion Quizzed about Rinku's exclusion from the squad, Agarkar reiterated that he wanted to give ample spin bowling options to Rohit for the slow decks in the West Indies. "Toughest thing we have had to do. He [Rinku] has done nothing wrong or for that matter Shubman Gill. It is about the combination...we are not sure about the conditions we will get," said Agarkar. "We wanted to try and have enough options. There are a couple of wrist spinners included - Chahal and Kuldeep to give Rohit more options. Axar, again, a batting allrounder or rather bowling allrounder," he added. The World Cup gets underway on June 2 while India open their campaign against Ireland on June 5 at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, currently under development in New York. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan (With inputs from agencies)

'I won't say in public': Rohit Sharma keeps mum on picking four spinners for T20 WC

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