It has always been about Indian batters vs Pakistani bowlers. Rohit Sharma, the India captain, is in top-notch form, having recently struck a record-breaking 131 against Afghanistan in the World Cup 2023. While Virat Kohli and KL Rahul had also been among the runs, the onus would be on Rohit to provide India with a stellar start against Pakistan in the most-awaited CWC match on Saturday (Oct 14).

With all eyeballs on this game in Ahmedabad, two former Pakistan veterans, Wasim Akram and Moin Khan, while speaking during a TV show in Pakistan, shared their thoughts on how big a threat Rohit be for Pakistan and how they can get rid of him early on.

While Wasim shed some light on Rohit’s ability to take the game away from the opposition in a fraction of a moment, Moin explained how the Pakistani new-ball bowlers, mainly Shaheen Shah Afridi, get the big wicket of the Indian captain.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-great-sir-alastair-cook-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-pens-heartfelt-letter-646441">England great Sir Alastair Cook announces retirement from all forms of cricket, pens heartfelt letter</a>

“Rohit Sharma looked so beautiful. He played proper shots and took no risks at all. He had a lot more time than the other batters. Kohli scored a fifty, it was a good knock, he was in control, but Rohit was a different beast altogether,” Wasim Akram said on A Sports.

“Look at his record. He has got seven World Cup hundreds in just 19 innings. The great Sachin Tendulkar scored 6 in 44 innings. Sangakkara had five in 35 innings, and Ponting scored five centuries in 42 innings. So, to get seven centuries so quickly in World Cups is phenomenal,” Akram added.

Rohit’s most recent knock against Afghanistan, a team with perhaps the best spin-bowling attack in the tournament, highlights his supreme ability to take down any attack at will.&nbsp;

Though he mostly looks untouchable at the crease once he finds his rhythm, Pakistan has a history of finding loopholes in his technique, somewhat like how they did during the Asia Cup 2023 match against India by dismissing him early on.

Moin Khan added, “He has to be dismissed early, maybe if Shaheen lands a yorker or someone bowls a very good bouncer. Otherwise, it seems very difficult to get him out.”

<h2>Shaheen vs Rohit – a battle to look out for</h2>

While during the first encounter in the Asia Cup 2023, Shaheen clean bowled Rohit with an inswinger, the India Captain dodged tight lines in the second match in Super Four to smash their star-studded attack for runs.&nbsp;

Would Rohit score runs against Pakistan’s attack, or will Shaheen keep the Indian batters silent with his lethal new-ball spell? Come Saturday, all questions will be answered.&nbsp;

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It has always been about Indian batters vs Pakistani bowlers. Rohit Sharma, the India captain, is in top-notch form, having recently struck a record-breaking 131 against Afghanistan in the World Cup 2023.

It has always been about Indian batters vs Pakistani bowlers. Rohit Sharma, the India captain, is in top-notch form, having recently struck a record-breaking 131 against Afghanistan in the World Cup 2023. While Virat Kohli and KL Rahul had also been among the runs, the onus would be on Rohit to provide India with a stellar start against Pakistan in the most-awaited CWC match on Saturday (Oct 14). With all eyeballs on this game in Ahmedabad, two former Pakistan veterans, Wasim Akram and Moin Khan, while speaking during a TV show in Pakistan, shared their thoughts on how big a threat Rohit be for Pakistan and how they can get rid of him early on. While Wasim shed some light on Rohit’s ability to take the game away from the opposition in a fraction of a moment, Moin explained how the Pakistani new-ball bowlers, mainly Shaheen Shah Afridi, get the big wicket of the Indian captain. ALSO READ: England great Sir Alastair Cook announces retirement from all forms of cricket, pens heartfelt letter “Rohit Sharma looked so beautiful. He played proper shots and took no risks at all. He had a lot more time than the other batters. Kohli scored a fifty, it was a good knock, he was in control, but Rohit was a different beast altogether,” Wasim Akram said on A Sports. “Look at his record. He has got seven World Cup hundreds in just 19 innings. The great Sachin Tendulkar scored 6 in 44 innings. Sangakkara had five in 35 innings, and Ponting scored five centuries in 42 innings. So, to get seven centuries so quickly in World Cups is phenomenal,” Akram added. Rohit’s most recent knock against Afghanistan, a team with perhaps the best spin-bowling attack in the tournament, highlights his supreme ability to take down any attack at will. Though he mostly looks untouchable at the crease once he finds his rhythm, Pakistan has a history of finding loopholes in his technique, somewhat like how they did during the Asia Cup 2023 match against India by dismissing him early on. Moin Khan added, “He has to be dismissed early, maybe if Shaheen lands a yorker or someone bowls a very good bouncer. Otherwise, it seems very difficult to get him out.” Shaheen vs Rohit – a battle to look out for While during the first encounter in the Asia Cup 2023, Shaheen clean bowled Rohit with an inswinger, the India Captain dodged tight lines in the second match in Super Four to smash their star-studded attack for runs. Would Rohit score runs against Pakistan’s attack, or will Shaheen keep the Indian batters silent with his lethal new-ball spell? Come Saturday, all questions will be answered. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC: Pakistan veterans advise seamers to target Rohit’s toes for early blow, back Shaheen to strike gold

India captain and opener Rohit Sharma slammed several records with his match-winning 131 against Afghanistan on Thursday in World Cup 2023. While he became the batter with the most sixes in international cricket, surpassing West Indian veteran Chris Gayle, Rohit also edged past legendary Sachin Tendulkar on the list of the batters with the most CWC hundreds (seven and counting). Hailing the Hitman, as most of Rohit’s fans call him, Ravi Shastri praised him.

Talking highly of the right-handed batter, Shastri said achieving what Rohit has done in three Cricket World Cups fewer than the great Sachin, is a huge achievement.

"Seven hundreds across eight years in World Cup cricket is a fabulous achievement. It's not easy to have that hunger and come back. Even Sachin Tendulkar needed 6 World Cups. And this guy, in 3 World Cups in a span of eight years has got seven centuries," Shastri said while speaking to the host broadcaster.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-india-pakistan-land-in-ahmedabad-ahead-of-marquee-clash-receive-warm-welcome-watch-645949">World Cup 2023: India, Pakistan land in Ahmedabad ahead of marquee clash, receive warm welcome – WATCH</a>

He added with the form that Rohit finds himself in, he can add a few more to his tally in this edition of the World Cup.

"It's a lot and he is not finished yet. There are a lot of games left in the tournament, and as an opening batter, early doze in the tournament with more league matches coming, if you start getting hundreds, then there is every chance you might add two or three," Shastri added.

<h2>‘His bat flow against pace and spin makes him deadly'</h2>

There aren’t many batters in world cricket who hit the ball with the sweet timing and placement the way Rohit does, with most pundits echoing the same thoughts every time. With his incredible ability to play the pace and spin with the same bat flow, Rohit stands out as one of the best openers in the modern-day game.

Speaking on the same lines, Shastri said, “There is one word you associate with Rohit Sharma which you cannot use with too many other players. When in full flight, he is unhurried in whatever he does. Even where there is intent and he is chipping down the track, he is in no hurry. The flow of the bat is the same – against pace and spin. He has got natural timing and power.

"It's a deadly combination. When you have these two, you make even the biggest grounds in the world look small,” he added.

While Rohit found form, India peaked at the right time, winning their opening two CWC clashes.&nbsp;

The host team will next face arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday (Oct 14) in Ahmedabad.

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India captain and opener Rohit Sharma slammed several records with his match-winning 131 against Afghanistan on Thursday in World Cup 2023. While he became the batter with the most sixes in international cricket, surpassing West Indian veteran Chris Gayle, Rohit also edged past legendary Sachin Tendulkar on the list of the batters with the most CWC hundreds (seven and counting).

India captain and opener Rohit Sharma slammed several records with his match-winning 131 against Afghanistan on Thursday in World Cup 2023. While he became the batter with the most sixes in international cricket, surpassing West Indian veteran Chris Gayle, Rohit also edged past legendary Sachin Tendulkar on the list of the batters with the most CWC hundreds (seven and counting). Hailing the Hitman, as most of Rohit’s fans call him, Ravi Shastri praised him. Talking highly of the right-handed batter, Shastri said achieving what Rohit has done in three Cricket World Cups fewer than the great Sachin, is a huge achievement. "Seven hundreds across eight years in World Cup cricket is a fabulous achievement. It's not easy to have that hunger and come back. Even Sachin Tendulkar needed 6 World Cups. And this guy, in 3 World Cups in a span of eight years has got seven centuries," Shastri said while speaking to the host broadcaster. ALSO READ: World Cup 2023: India, Pakistan land in Ahmedabad ahead of marquee clash, receive warm welcome – WATCH He added with the form that Rohit finds himself in, he can add a few more to his tally in this edition of the World Cup. "It's a lot and he is not finished yet. There are a lot of games left in the tournament, and as an opening batter, early doze in the tournament with more league matches coming, if you start getting hundreds, then there is every chance you might add two or three," Shastri added. ‘His bat flow against pace and spin makes him deadly' There aren’t many batters in world cricket who hit the ball with the sweet timing and placement the way Rohit does, with most pundits echoing the same thoughts every time. With his incredible ability to play the pace and spin with the same bat flow, Rohit stands out as one of the best openers in the modern-day game. Speaking on the same lines, Shastri said, “There is one word you associate with Rohit Sharma which you cannot use with too many other players. When in full flight, he is unhurried in whatever he does. Even where there is intent and he is chipping down the track, he is in no hurry. The flow of the bat is the same – against pace and spin. He has got natural timing and power. "It's a deadly combination. When you have these two, you make even the biggest grounds in the world look small,” he added. While Rohit found form, India peaked at the right time, winning their opening two CWC clashes. The host team will next face arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday (Oct 14) in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

He’s not finished yet: Ravi Shastri on Rohit Sharma scoring more hundreds in World Cup 2023

Rohit Sharma-led India demolished Afghanistan by eight wickets in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Thursday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 4 for 39 but Afghanistan managed a healthy 272 for 8 courtesy of captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and&nbsp;Azmatullah Omarzai (61). In reply, India closed the run-chase in 35 overs courtesy of Rohit's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's unbeaten 55.&nbsp;

Rohit was at his best from the word go during the run-chase. Hitman started off with a flurry of boundaries and ended with an impressive 84-ball 131, laced with 16 fours and 5 sixes at a strike rate of&nbsp;155.95. His knock led to India making light work of the run-chase, which could have been tricky had India lost early wickets. After the match, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra hailed Rohit -- who now has the most ODI World Cup tons (seven) -- and feels he doesn't get enough credit despite being a beast in the ODI format.&nbsp;

Chopra told JioCinema, "My focus for the chase was purely on Ishan Kishan. I thought that he played decently, was not the best but tried to hold his own, while he let the captain do all the heavy lifting on the other end."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-telling-delhi-crowd-not-to-troll-naveen-a-great-gesture-says-gambhir-after-ind-afg-cwc-23-tie-645842">Virat Kohli telling Delhi crowd not to troll Naveen a great gesture, says Gambhir after Ind-Afg CWC '23 tie</a>

He added, "Rohit Sharma has made seven centuries in only nineteen games in all editions of the World Cup - what a player! He made those sixes look too easy. It is unfortunate that we don't give him enough credit - Rohit Sharma is an ODI beast. Whenever he puts up a monstrous performance, the match is always one-sided."

Rohit -- who also ended with the Player-of-the-Match award --&nbsp;broke several records during his 131-run knock, including&nbsp;becoming the joint-fastest 1,000 runs in ODI World Cup history. After his inning, he said at the post-match presentation, "It was a good pitch to bat on, just backed myself to play my natural game. I knew once I got my eye in, the wicket was going to get easier for me. Something that I have been working on for a long time. It's a special feeling to get a World Cup hundred. Really happy with that. Don't want to think too much (scoring 7 hundreds in just three World Cups), I don't want to lose my focus. You need to make such things count."

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Rohit Sharma-led India demolished Afghanistan by eight wickets in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Thursday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Rohit Sharma-led India demolished Afghanistan by eight wickets in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition on Thursday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 4 for 39 but Afghanistan managed a healthy 272 for 8 courtesy of captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and Azmatullah Omarzai (61). In reply, India closed the run-chase in 35 overs courtesy of Rohit's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's unbeaten 55. Rohit was at his best from the word go during the run-chase. Hitman started off with a flurry of boundaries and ended with an impressive 84-ball 131, laced with 16 fours and 5 sixes at a strike rate of 155.95. His knock led to India making light work of the run-chase, which could have been tricky had India lost early wickets. After the match, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra hailed Rohit -- who now has the most ODI World Cup tons (seven) -- and feels he doesn't get enough credit despite being a beast in the ODI format. Chopra told JioCinema, "My focus for the chase was purely on Ishan Kishan. I thought that he played decently, was not the best but tried to hold his own, while he let the captain do all the heavy lifting on the other end." Also read: Virat Kohli telling Delhi crowd not to troll Naveen a great gesture, says Gambhir after Ind-Afg CWC '23 tie He added, "Rohit Sharma has made seven centuries in only nineteen games in all editions of the World Cup - what a player! He made those sixes look too easy. It is unfortunate that we don't give him enough credit - Rohit Sharma is an ODI beast. Whenever he puts up a monstrous performance, the match is always one-sided." Rohit -- who also ended with the Player-of-the-Match award -- broke several records during his 131-run knock, including becoming the joint-fastest 1,000 runs in ODI World Cup history. After his inning, he said at the post-match presentation, "It was a good pitch to bat on, just backed myself to play my natural game. I knew once I got my eye in, the wicket was going to get easier for me. Something that I have been working on for a long time. It's a special feeling to get a World Cup hundred. Really happy with that. Don't want to think too much (scoring 7 hundreds in just three World Cups), I don't want to lose my focus. You need to make such things count." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: 'Rohit is an ODI beast, does not...'- Chopra HAILS Hitman after India's easy win vs Afghanistan

India captain and batting great Rohit Sharma broke several records during his 84-ball 131 against Afghanistan in Delhi on Tuesday, including becoming the batter with the most sixes in international cricket, surpassing legendary Chris Gayle. Before beginning his inning, Rohit had 551 sixes to his name, just two behind Gayle, and in the next 31 balls, he went past the West Indian great to enter history books.

His signature pull shot off Naveen-ul-Haq was when Rohit became the batter with the most sixes in international cricket.&nbsp;

Speaking to bcci.tv after the match, Rohit acknowledged Gayle’s achievement, calling him the ultimate six-hitter in this game.

Talking highly of Gayle, Rohit said he used to take a leaf out of Gayle’s book, and since both wear 45-number jerseys, Rohit is happy that he was the one to overtake Gayle on this list.

"Universe Boss is Universe Boss," Rohit said after India’s eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in the World Cup 2023. "I have taken a leaf out of his book. Over the years, we have seen him, such a six-hitting machine he is wherever he plays.

"We both wear the same jersey - No. 45. I am sure he is happy about it because jersey No. 45 has done it [broken his record]," the India captain added.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-kane-williamsons-comeback-on-cards-as-new-zealand-gear-up-for-bangladesh-tie-in-chennai-645866">World Cup: Kane Williamson’s comeback on cards as New Zealand gear up for Bangladesh tie in Chennai</a>

Following breaking Gayle’s record, the West Indian legend even posted a photo on X (previously known as Twitter), congratulating Rohit, to which the India captain replied cheekily.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thanks CG 🤙 
4&amp;5 on the back but our favorite number is 6 😄
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1712339869932925336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Rohit acknowledges record</h2>

Achieving this record in 30 innings fewer than Gayle (who recorded 553 sixes in 483 international games), Rohit said when he started playing cricket, he never imagined hitting so many sixes, let alone breaking this record.

"When I started playing this game, I never thought I would be able to hit sixes like that, let alone that many sixes. Obviously, a lot of work has gone into it over the years. So, I am quite happy with the work I have.

"I am the sort of person who will not be satisfied. I want to continue to do what I have been doing. My focus is on that. Yeah, it is a small happy moment for me,” the India captain added.

Meanwhile, India continued their dominant run in this World Cup, winning two out of the two matches. First, they made light work of Australia in their opener on October 8, beating them by six wickets, and in the second match, the hosts ran riot against Afghanistan.

India’s next match is against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Oct 14).

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India captain and batting great Rohit Sharma broke several records during his 84-ball 131 against Afghanistan in Delhi on Tuesday, including becoming the batter with the most sixes in international cricket, surpassing legendary Chris Gayle.

India captain and batting great Rohit Sharma broke several records during his 84-ball 131 against Afghanistan in Delhi on Tuesday, including becoming the batter with the most sixes in international cricket, surpassing legendary Chris Gayle. Before beginning his inning, Rohit had 551 sixes to his name, just two behind Gayle, and in the next 31 balls, he went past the West Indian great to enter history books. His signature pull shot off Naveen-ul-Haq was when Rohit became the batter with the most sixes in international cricket. Speaking to bcci.tv after the match, Rohit acknowledged Gayle’s achievement, calling him the ultimate six-hitter in this game. Talking highly of Gayle, Rohit said he used to take a leaf out of Gayle’s book, and since both wear 45-number jerseys, Rohit is happy that he was the one to overtake Gayle on this list. "Universe Boss is Universe Boss," Rohit said after India’s eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in the World Cup 2023. "I have taken a leaf out of his book. Over the years, we have seen him, such a six-hitting machine he is wherever he plays. "We both wear the same jersey - No. 45. I am sure he is happy about it because jersey No. 45 has done it [broken his record]," the India captain added. ALSO READ: World Cup: Kane Williamson’s comeback on cards as New Zealand gear up for Bangladesh tie in Chennai Following breaking Gayle’s record, the West Indian legend even posted a photo on X (previously known as Twitter), congratulating Rohit, to which the India captain replied cheekily. Thanks CG 🤙 4&5 on the back but our favorite number is 6 😄 — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) October 12, 2023 × Rohit acknowledges record Achieving this record in 30 innings fewer than Gayle (who recorded 553 sixes in 483 international games), Rohit said when he started playing cricket, he never imagined hitting so many sixes, let alone breaking this record. "When I started playing this game, I never thought I would be able to hit sixes like that, let alone that many sixes. Obviously, a lot of work has gone into it over the years. So, I am quite happy with the work I have. "I am the sort of person who will not be satisfied. I want to continue to do what I have been doing. My focus is on that. Yeah, it is a small happy moment for me,” the India captain added. Meanwhile, India continued their dominant run in this World Cup, winning two out of the two matches. First, they made light work of Australia in their opener on October 8, beating them by six wickets, and in the second match, the hosts ran riot against Afghanistan. India’s next match is against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Ahmedabad on Saturday (Oct 14). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Cup: Delhi-game hero Rohit Sharma opens up on breaking Chris Gayle’s most sixes record

India will face Pakistan on Saturday (Oct 14) in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. Both teams are coming into this game on the back of two successive wins each and, thus, the clash is expected to go down to the wire at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Before the clash, many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their predictions and picked which team would start as favourites.

Former Pakistan captain-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja feels Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will start as favourites.&nbsp;Ramiz told Jio Cinema, "This game, it's played off the field as much as it is on the field. It's a huge game. India will start as favourites, three is no doubt about it. They have all their bases covered when it comes to batting, bowling and in terms of fitness."

"Pakistan have to raise their level massively if they are to do well. But the win against Sri Lanka, the record chase would have made a huge difference to Pakistan in their dressing room, they have to think of winning and go on with an uncluttered mind," he further opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-huge-difference-between-bumrah-and-afridi-feels-gambhir-before-india-vs-pakistan-showdown-646284">CWC '23: Huge difference between Bumrah and Afridi, feels Gambhir before India vs Pakistan showdown</a>

<h2>'If Pakistan don't....'</h2>

Ramiz went on to say, "Pakistan need wickets at the start. But their bowling has come under pressure, and wickets are not coming. Naseem Shah is not available, Pakistan is missing him a lot. Shaheen Shah Afridi has a swelling in one of his fingers and because of that, he has not been at his best. Hasan Ali's pace has dripped. But somehow, Pakistan have to lift their bowling performance. If they don't do it and the bowling is flat, India will bat Pakistan out of the contest. Pakistan have to take their catches well. They should not allow big partnerships.

The former Pakistan captain added, "Pakistan need a proper spinner. Can they take the chance by playing Usama Mir? The two spinners that are playing now are all-rounders. They have not performed up to the mark now. India have a very strong batting line-up. They have to think in terms of selection also. If they go in with an uncluttered mind, if they pick up a a couple of wickets with the new ball, if they can get the tactics right, keep the pressure on India batters in the middle overs, then they have an outside chance."

Rohit-led India won their tournament opener versus Australia by six wickets in pursuit of 200 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai before beating Afghanistan by eight wickets in New Delhi, India. Meanwhile, Babar Azam-led Men in Green beat the Netherlands by 81 runs and went past Sri Lanka by six wickets, in pursuit of 345, in their first two encounters in Hyderabad.&nbsp;

Overall, India lead Pakistan 7-0 in ODI World Cup history. It will be interesting to see if India maintain their lead or if Babar &amp; Co. get off the mark versus the arch-rivals. Both sides locked horns twice in the Asia Cup 2023 edition, with the Men in Blue winning one and the other game being washed out.

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India will face Pakistan on Saturday (Oct 14) in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. Both teams are coming into this game on the back of two successive wins each and, thus, the clash is expected to go down to the wire at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

India will face Pakistan on Saturday (Oct 14) in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. Both teams are coming into this game on the back of two successive wins each and, thus, the clash is expected to go down to the wire at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Before the clash, many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their predictions and picked which team would start as favourites. Former Pakistan captain-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja feels Rohit Sharma & Co. will start as favourites. Ramiz told Jio Cinema, "This game, it's played off the field as much as it is on the field. It's a huge game. India will start as favourites, three is no doubt about it. They have all their bases covered when it comes to batting, bowling and in terms of fitness." "Pakistan have to raise their level massively if they are to do well. But the win against Sri Lanka, the record chase would have made a huge difference to Pakistan in their dressing room, they have to think of winning and go on with an uncluttered mind," he further opined. Also read: CWC '23: Huge difference between Bumrah and Afridi, feels Gambhir before India vs Pakistan showdown 'If Pakistan don't....' Ramiz went on to say, "Pakistan need wickets at the start. But their bowling has come under pressure, and wickets are not coming. Naseem Shah is not available, Pakistan is missing him a lot. Shaheen Shah Afridi has a swelling in one of his fingers and because of that, he has not been at his best. Hasan Ali's pace has dripped. But somehow, Pakistan have to lift their bowling performance. If they don't do it and the bowling is flat, India will bat Pakistan out of the contest. Pakistan have to take their catches well. They should not allow big partnerships. The former Pakistan captain added, "Pakistan need a proper spinner. Can they take the chance by playing Usama Mir? The two spinners that are playing now are all-rounders. They have not performed up to the mark now. India have a very strong batting line-up. They have to think in terms of selection also. If they go in with an uncluttered mind, if they pick up a a couple of wickets with the new ball, if they can get the tactics right, keep the pressure on India batters in the middle overs, then they have an outside chance." Rohit-led India won their tournament opener versus Australia by six wickets in pursuit of 200 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai before beating Afghanistan by eight wickets in New Delhi, India. Meanwhile, Babar Azam-led Men in Green beat the Netherlands by 81 runs and went past Sri Lanka by six wickets, in pursuit of 345, in their first two encounters in Hyderabad. Overall, India lead Pakistan 7-0 in ODI World Cup history. It will be interesting to see if India maintain their lead or if Babar & Co. get off the mark versus the arch-rivals. Both sides locked horns twice in the Asia Cup 2023 edition, with the Men in Blue winning one and the other game being washed out. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India vs Pakistan, CWC '23: 'There is no doubt about it' - Ramiz Raja on which team starts as FAVOURITES

In match 9 of the ODI World Cup 2023, Rohit Sharma-led India demolished Afghanistan by eight wickets in pursuit of 273 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11). Being asked to bowl first, Afghanistan did well to post 272 for 8, riding on captain&nbsp;Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and&nbsp;Azmatullah Omarzai (62) but fell flat with the ball as&nbsp;skipper Rohit (131) and Virat Kohli (55 not out) propelled India to a stunning eight-wicket win in 35 overs.&nbsp;

Thus, with two wins in a row, India will now shift their focus on playing arch-rivals Pakistan in match 12 of the ongoing marquee event. After the win against Afghanistan, Rohit opened up on facing Pakistan and said that it is important for his side to not worry about the 'external factors'.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "(It) was a good win for us, very important to get that momentum at the start of the tournament."

On the Pakistan face-off, he stated, "For us, it is crucial that we don't worry about external factors and just look at things we can control. We just need to show up and do well."

"Things like what the pitch is like, what combo we can play is what we can control. What happens outside we won't be worried about it. It is just about focusing on what we can do as players and how we can perform," the India captain further opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-ind-vs-afg-from-naveen-kohli-hug-to-iyers-101-metre-six-top-moments-from-the-game-645698">ODI World Cup 2023, IND vs AFG: From Naveen-Kohli hug to Iyer's 101-metre six - Top moments from the game</a>

Rohit spoke at length on Team India and said, "We have got guys who can play fearless cricket with bat and guys who can absorb like the last game. It is about absorbing pressure and making the right decision on the field. There will be a spell from the opposition where you will have to absorb pressure. Leading up to the tournament, we had played such games. "We have got players with different skill sets in our team. They bring different attributes of the game to the team and it puts you in good positions as a team when you have that," he added.

Both India and Pakistan are coming into the marquee face-off after starting their campaigns with two back-to-back wins. Will India maintain their unbeaten ODI World Cup streak over the Babar Azam-led Men in Green? Only time will tell...

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In match 9 of the ODI World Cup 2023, Rohit Sharma-led India demolished Afghanistan by eight wickets in pursuit of 273 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11).

In match 9 of the ODI World Cup 2023, Rohit Sharma-led India demolished Afghanistan by eight wickets in pursuit of 273 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11). Being asked to bowl first, Afghanistan did well to post 272 for 8, riding on captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and Azmatullah Omarzai (62) but fell flat with the ball as skipper Rohit (131) and Virat Kohli (55 not out) propelled India to a stunning eight-wicket win in 35 overs. Thus, with two wins in a row, India will now shift their focus on playing arch-rivals Pakistan in match 12 of the ongoing marquee event. After the win against Afghanistan, Rohit opened up on facing Pakistan and said that it is important for his side to not worry about the 'external factors'. At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "(It) was a good win for us, very important to get that momentum at the start of the tournament." On the Pakistan face-off, he stated, "For us, it is crucial that we don't worry about external factors and just look at things we can control. We just need to show up and do well." "Things like what the pitch is like, what combo we can play is what we can control. What happens outside we won't be worried about it. It is just about focusing on what we can do as players and how we can perform," the India captain further opined. Also read: ODI World Cup 2023, IND vs AFG: From Naveen-Kohli hug to Iyer's 101-metre six - Top moments from the game Rohit spoke at length on Team India and said, "We have got guys who can play fearless cricket with bat and guys who can absorb like the last game. It is about absorbing pressure and making the right decision on the field. There will be a spell from the opposition where you will have to absorb pressure. Leading up to the tournament, we had played such games. "We have got players with different skill sets in our team. They bring different attributes of the game to the team and it puts you in good positions as a team when you have that," he added. Both India and Pakistan are coming into the marquee face-off after starting their campaigns with two back-to-back wins. Will India maintain their unbeaten ODI World Cup streak over the Babar Azam-led Men in Green? Only time will tell... WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Crucial that we don't worry...': Rohit Sharma on India's mouth-watering clash vs Pakistan in CWC '23

The ODI World Cup 2023 game between India and Afghanistan saw multiple records being broken. While India skipper Rohit Sharma scored a blistering hundred (132 off 84 balls) and became the joint fastest to reach 1,000 runs in the World Cup history, Kohli also had a historic night at his home ground in New Delhi.

Here are some of the records which were broken in the India vs Afghanistan clash:

<h2>Most centuries in ODI World Cups</h2>

Rohit Sharma surpassed India legend Sachin Tendulkar for most centuries in ODI World Cups. With the latest 100, Rohit now has seven tons in the quadrennial tournament, one more than Sachin's six.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-ind-vs-afg-from-naveen-kohli-hug-to-iyers-101-metre-six-top-moments-from-the-game-645698">From Naveen-Kohli hug to Iyer's 101-metre six - Top moments from the game</a>

<h2>Fastest to 1,000 ODI World Cup runs</h2>

During his 131-run innings, Rohit also notched up 1,000 runs in the ODI World Cups and did so in 19 innings only - the joint fastest in the ODI World Cups. Earlier, Australia's David Warner reached to the 1000-run mark in 19 innings only during the game against India.

<h2>Most sixes in international cricket</h2>

Rohit, during his record-breaking innings, hit five sixes to eclipse West Indies great Chris Gayle for most sixes in international cricket. &nbsp;The Indian skipper now has 556 sixes to his name (in all Tests, ODIs and T20Is combined) while Gayle has 553. Rohit reached the record in his 453rd international game, and Gayle had done so in 483 games. Notably, Gayle and Rohit are only two players with 500+ sixes in international cricket.

<h2>Fastest ton for India in World Cups</h2>

Rohit's&nbsp;innings also had one more record - fastest ton for India in ODI World Cups. Rohit scored his ton against Afghanistan on 63 balls, going past Kapil Dev's record of 72 balls that he had scored in 1983 edition of the tournament against Zimbabwe.

<h2>Kohli has maximum runs in World Cups (T20 and ODI)</h2>

India's Virat Kohli also had a historic night during the game against Afghanistan as he scored his second fifty in as many World Cup matches. Kohli now has 2,279 runs combined (ODI and T20I World Cup) - one more than Sachin's 2,278 runs all of which came in six editions of the ODI World Cups.

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The ODI World Cup 2023 game between India and Afghanistan saw multiple records being broken. While India skipper Rohit Sharma scored a blistering hundred (132 off 84 balls) and became the joint fastest to reach 1,000 runs in the World Cup history, Kohli also had a historic night at his home ground in New Delhi.

The ODI World Cup 2023 game between India and Afghanistan saw multiple records being broken. While India skipper Rohit Sharma scored a blistering hundred (132 off 84 balls) and became the joint fastest to reach 1,000 runs in the World Cup history, Kohli also had a historic night at his home ground in New Delhi. Here are some of the records which were broken in the India vs Afghanistan clash: Most centuries in ODI World Cups Rohit Sharma surpassed India legend Sachin Tendulkar for most centuries in ODI World Cups. With the latest 100, Rohit now has seven tons in the quadrennial tournament, one more than Sachin's six. Also Read: From Naveen-Kohli hug to Iyer's 101-metre six - Top moments from the game Fastest to 1,000 ODI World Cup runs During his 131-run innings, Rohit also notched up 1,000 runs in the ODI World Cups and did so in 19 innings only - the joint fastest in the ODI World Cups. Earlier, Australia's David Warner reached to the 1000-run mark in 19 innings only during the game against India. Most sixes in international cricket Rohit, during his record-breaking innings, hit five sixes to eclipse West Indies great Chris Gayle for most sixes in international cricket. The Indian skipper now has 556 sixes to his name (in all Tests, ODIs and T20Is combined) while Gayle has 553. Rohit reached the record in his 453rd international game, and Gayle had done so in 483 games. Notably, Gayle and Rohit are only two players with 500+ sixes in international cricket. Fastest ton for India in World Cups Rohit's innings also had one more record - fastest ton for India in ODI World Cups. Rohit scored his ton against Afghanistan on 63 balls, going past Kapil Dev's record of 72 balls that he had scored in 1983 edition of the tournament against Zimbabwe. Kohli has maximum runs in World Cups (T20 and ODI) India's Virat Kohli also had a historic night during the game against Afghanistan as he scored his second fifty in as many World Cup matches. Kohli now has 2,279 runs combined (ODI and T20I World Cup) - one more than Sachin's 2,278 runs all of which came in six editions of the ODI World Cups. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023, IND vs AFG: From Rohit's fastest ton to Kohli's most runs in WC - All records broken

It was runs galore at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from the bat of Rohit Sharma as he smashed record books left, right, and centre for India. Playing in his third ODI World Cup, Rohit broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for most hundreds in the ODI World Cup as he scored his seventh ton in the coveted tournament. The ton against Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 11) also saw him register fastest hundred for an Indian in the ODI World Cup in just 63 balls surpassing Kapil Dev for the record books.

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Rohit Sharma becomes the batter with the most <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketworldcup</a> hundreds with a belligerent ton against Afghanistan 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> Milestones 🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAFG</a> <a href="https://t.co/AnZL1FDg4T">pic.twitter.com/AnZL1FDg4T</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1712110747117920443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Rohit surpasses Sachin</h2>

Playing in his third World Cup, Rohit smashed his five hundreds in the 2019 edition, while he had one in the 2015 edition of the tournament. He was level with Sachin with six hundreds going into the World Cup and needed one more to leapfrog him. On the second ball of the 18th over, Rohit brought up his 31st ton in his ODI career which saw him break the record. His seventh ton was also special for multiple reasons as India were on fire in the match.

Most hundreds in World Cups

7 - Rohit Sharma

6 - Sachin Tendulkar

5 - Ricky Ponting

5 - Kumar Sangakkara

The Indian skipper scored the fastest ton in the World Cup, a record previously held by Kapil Dev when he scored an unbeaten 175 against Zimbabwe in 1983.

Fastest ODI hundreds for India (by balls faced)

52 - Virat Kohli vs AUS, Jaipur, 2013

60 - Virender Sehwag vs NZ, Hamilton, 2009

61 - Virat Kohli vs AUS, Nagpur, 2013

62 - Mohammad Azharuddin vs NZ, Baroda, 1988

63 - Rohit Sharma vs AFG, Delhi, 2023

Rohit finally bowed out on 131 off 84 which consisted of 5 sixes and 16 fours, scoring at a strike rate of 156. It is also the highest score in a World Cup match for India in a successful run chase as India march for back-to-back wins.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-cwc-23-shardul-thakur-takes-a-stunner-to-send-rahmanullah-gurbaz-packing-watch-645364">Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch</a>

<h2>India register back-to-back wins</h2>

Riding on the success of Rohit, India have now registered back-to-back wins in the ODI World Cup to state their claim as tournament favourites. India beat Australia in the opening match on Sunday in Chennai by six wickets where KL Rahul and Virat Kohli were in top form. India successfully chased down the total of 273 runs with 15 overs to spare.

India will next take on Pakistan on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with both teams getting off to a perfect start in the World Cup. India and Pakistan have won their opening two matches and will eye another win on Saturday. Interestingly, India have never lost to Pakistan in the World Cup in seven previous meetings.

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It was runs galore at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from the bat of Rohit Sharma as he smashed record books left, right, and centre for India. Playing in his third ODI World Cup, Rohit broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for most hundreds in the ODI World Cup as he scored his seventh ton in the coveted tournament.

It was runs galore at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from the bat of Rohit Sharma as he smashed record books left, right, and centre for India. Playing in his third ODI World Cup, Rohit broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for most hundreds in the ODI World Cup as he scored his seventh ton in the coveted tournament. The ton against Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 11) also saw him register fastest hundred for an Indian in the ODI World Cup in just 63 balls surpassing Kapil Dev for the record books. Rohit Sharma becomes the batter with the most @cricketworldcup hundreds with a belligerent ton against Afghanistan 🔥@mastercardindia Milestones 🏏#CWC23 #INDvAFG pic.twitter.com/AnZL1FDg4T — ICC (@ICC) October 11, 2023 × Rohit surpasses Sachin Playing in his third World Cup, Rohit smashed his five hundreds in the 2019 edition, while he had one in the 2015 edition of the tournament. He was level with Sachin with six hundreds going into the World Cup and needed one more to leapfrog him. On the second ball of the 18th over, Rohit brought up his 31st ton in his ODI career which saw him break the record. His seventh ton was also special for multiple reasons as India were on fire in the match. Most hundreds in World Cups 7 - Rohit Sharma 6 - Sachin Tendulkar 5 - Ricky Ponting 5 - Kumar Sangakkara The Indian skipper scored the fastest ton in the World Cup, a record previously held by Kapil Dev when he scored an unbeaten 175 against Zimbabwe in 1983. Fastest ODI hundreds for India (by balls faced) 52 - Virat Kohli vs AUS, Jaipur, 2013 60 - Virender Sehwag vs NZ, Hamilton, 2009 61 - Virat Kohli vs AUS, Nagpur, 2013 62 - Mohammad Azharuddin vs NZ, Baroda, 1988 63 - Rohit Sharma vs AFG, Delhi, 2023 Rohit finally bowed out on 131 off 84 which consisted of 5 sixes and 16 fours, scoring at a strike rate of 156. It is also the highest score in a World Cup match for India in a successful run chase as India march for back-to-back wins. ALSO READ | Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch India register back-to-back wins Riding on the success of Rohit, India have now registered back-to-back wins in the ODI World Cup to state their claim as tournament favourites. India beat Australia in the opening match on Sunday in Chennai by six wickets where KL Rahul and Virat Kohli were in top form. India successfully chased down the total of 273 runs with 15 overs to spare. India will next take on Pakistan on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with both teams getting off to a perfect start in the World Cup. India and Pakistan have won their opening two matches and will eye another win on Saturday. Interestingly, India have never lost to Pakistan in the World Cup in seven previous meetings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohit Sharma leapfrogs Sachin Tendulkar for most hundreds in ODI World Cup with blistering knock vs Afg

India skipper Rohit Sharma wreaked havoc at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11) as he smashed the record for most international sixes, surpassing Chris Gayle of West Indies. Playing against Afghanistan in the ODI World Cup, Rohit with his third six of his blistering innings surpassed Gayle’s tally of 553 sixes to set a new record. The Indian skipper was in top gear against Afghanistan as India are chasing 273 to register back-to-back wins in the ODI World Cup.

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FIFTY for Rohit Sharma - his 5⃣3⃣rd in ODIs! 👌 👌 
 
Talk about leading from the front! 👍 👍 
 
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/f29c30au8u">https://t.co/f29c30au8u</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAFG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MeninBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MeninBlue</a> <a href="https://t.co/rRV2SRucQJ">pic.twitter.com/rRV2SRucQJ</a>
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<h2>Rohit on fire</h2>

Playing in his third World Cup, the Hitman has had a reputation as one of the deadliest players in world cricket. In his 453rd international match, he now has 556 sixes (at the time of writing) as he continues to impress in the World Cups. In 52 Test matches for India, he has 77 sixes while in the T20I format, he has scored 182 sixes that have been amassed in 148 matches. He has not played in the shortest format since the T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia.

Most sixes in international cricket

556* - Rohit Sharma

553 - Chris Gayle

476 - Shahid Afridi

398 - Brendon McCullum

383 - Martin Guptill

On the flip side, in 253 ODI matches, he has 297 sixes (at the time of writing) which sees him being one of the greatest ODI batters. He ranks third in the list of most ODI sixes behind Chris Gayle (331) and Pakistan legend Shahid Afridi (351) in the format.

Rohit finally bowed out on 131 off 84 which consisted of 5 sixes and 16 fours, scoring at a strike rate of 156. It is also the highest score in a World Cup match for India in a successful run chase as India march for back-to-back wins.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-cwc-23-shardul-thakur-takes-a-stunner-to-send-rahmanullah-gurbaz-packing-watch-645364">Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch</a>

<h2>India register back-to-back wins</h2>

Riding on the success of Rohit, India have now registered back-to-back wins in the ODI World Cup to state their claim as tournament favourites. India beat Australia in the opening match on Sunday in Chennai by six wickets where KL Rahul and Virat Kohli were in top form. India successfully chased down the total of 273 runs with 15 overs to spare.

India will next take on Pakistan on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with both teams getting off to a perfect start in the World Cup. India and Pakistan have won their opening two matches and will eye another win on Saturday. Interestingly, India have never lost to Pakistan in the World Cup in seven previous meetings.

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India skipper Rohit Sharma wreaked havoc at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11) as he smashed the record for most international sixes, surpassing Chris Gayle of West Indies.

India skipper Rohit Sharma wreaked havoc at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11) as he smashed the record for most international sixes, surpassing Chris Gayle of West Indies. Playing against Afghanistan in the ODI World Cup, Rohit with his third six of his blistering innings surpassed Gayle’s tally of 553 sixes to set a new record. The Indian skipper was in top gear against Afghanistan as India are chasing 273 to register back-to-back wins in the ODI World Cup. FIFTY for Rohit Sharma - his 5⃣3⃣rd in ODIs! 👌 👌 Talk about leading from the front! 👍 👍 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/f29c30au8u#CWC23 | #TeamIndia | #INDvAFG | #MeninBlue pic.twitter.com/rRV2SRucQJ — BCCI (@BCCI) October 11, 2023 × Rohit on fire Playing in his third World Cup, the Hitman has had a reputation as one of the deadliest players in world cricket. In his 453rd international match, he now has 556 sixes (at the time of writing) as he continues to impress in the World Cups. In 52 Test matches for India, he has 77 sixes while in the T20I format, he has scored 182 sixes that have been amassed in 148 matches. He has not played in the shortest format since the T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia. Most sixes in international cricket 556* - Rohit Sharma 553 - Chris Gayle 476 - Shahid Afridi 398 - Brendon McCullum 383 - Martin Guptill On the flip side, in 253 ODI matches, he has 297 sixes (at the time of writing) which sees him being one of the greatest ODI batters. He ranks third in the list of most ODI sixes behind Chris Gayle (331) and Pakistan legend Shahid Afridi (351) in the format. Rohit finally bowed out on 131 off 84 which consisted of 5 sixes and 16 fours, scoring at a strike rate of 156. It is also the highest score in a World Cup match for India in a successful run chase as India march for back-to-back wins. ALSO READ | Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch India register back-to-back wins Riding on the success of Rohit, India have now registered back-to-back wins in the ODI World Cup to state their claim as tournament favourites. India beat Australia in the opening match on Sunday in Chennai by six wickets where KL Rahul and Virat Kohli were in top form. India successfully chased down the total of 273 runs with 15 overs to spare. India will next take on Pakistan on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with both teams getting off to a perfect start in the World Cup. India and Pakistan have won their opening two matches and will eye another win on Saturday. Interestingly, India have never lost to Pakistan in the World Cup in seven previous meetings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma smashes Chris Gayle's record for most international sixes vs Afg

Rohit Sharma was at his sensational best on Wednesday (Oct 11) as he led India to back-to-back wins in the ongoing ODI World Cup. Breaking records left, right and centre, Rohit registered the fastest hundred for India in the ODI World Cup while also breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most tons. His blistering innings saw India chase down 273 runs target with 90&nbsp;balls to spare to beat Afghanistan by eight wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

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<h2>Rohit Sharma wreaks havoc</h2>

Chasing 273, Rohit had a no-nonsense approach that saw him take on the opposition bowlers from the start. In the first 10 overs, India scored 94 runs to put Afghanistan on the mat from the start, with Rohit taking&nbsp;30 balls to complete his fifty. He along with Ishan Kishan (47) stitched a partnership of 156 runs for the opening wicket as it laid foundation for the win.

Playing in his third ODI World Cup, Rohit broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for most hundreds in the ODI World Cup as he scored his seventh ton in the coveted tournament. The ton against Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 11) also saw him register the fastest hundred for an Indian in the ODI World Cup in just 63 balls, surpassing Kapil Dev for the record books.

In his 453rd international match, he now has 556 sixes (at the time of writing) as he continues to impress in the World Cups. In 52 Test matches for India, he has 77 sixes while in the T20I format, he has scored 182 sixes that have been amassed in 148 matches. He has not played in the shortest format since the T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-cwc-23-shardul-thakur-takes-a-stunner-to-send-rahmanullah-gurbaz-packing-watch-645364">Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch</a>

In 253 ODI matches, he has 297 sixes (at the time of writing), making him one of the greatest ODI batters. He ranks third in the list of most ODI sixes behind Chris Gayle (331) and Pakistan legend Shahid Afridi (351) in the format.

Earlier, banking on the batting displays of Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and Azmatullah Omarzai (62)&nbsp;&nbsp;Afghanistan scored 272/8 in 50 overs. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers for India as he scalped four wickets while Hardik Pandya ended with 43/2 in seven overs.

India will next take on Pakistan on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with both teams getting off to a perfect start in the World Cup. India and Pakistan have won their opening two matches and will eye another win on Saturday. Interestingly, India have never lost to Pakistan in the World Cup in seven previous meetings.

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Rohit Sharma was at his sensational best on Wednesday (Oct 11) as he led India to back-to-back wins in the ongoing ODI World Cup. Breaking records left, right and centre, Rohit registered the fastest hundred for India in the ODI World Cup while also breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most tons.

Rohit Sharma was at his sensational best on Wednesday (Oct 11) as he led India to back-to-back wins in the ongoing ODI World Cup. Breaking records left, right and centre, Rohit registered the fastest hundred for India in the ODI World Cup while also breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most tons. His blistering innings saw India chase down 273 runs target with 90 balls to spare to beat Afghanistan by eight wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. India march to their second successive win off the back of a dominant display in Delhi 💪#CWC23 #INDvAFG pic.twitter.com/zZdVDmmCEU — ICC (@ICC) October 11, 2023 × Rohit Sharma wreaks havoc Chasing 273, Rohit had a no-nonsense approach that saw him take on the opposition bowlers from the start. In the first 10 overs, India scored 94 runs to put Afghanistan on the mat from the start, with Rohit taking 30 balls to complete his fifty. He along with Ishan Kishan (47) stitched a partnership of 156 runs for the opening wicket as it laid foundation for the win. Playing in his third ODI World Cup, Rohit broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for most hundreds in the ODI World Cup as he scored his seventh ton in the coveted tournament. The ton against Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 11) also saw him register the fastest hundred for an Indian in the ODI World Cup in just 63 balls, surpassing Kapil Dev for the record books. In his 453rd international match, he now has 556 sixes (at the time of writing) as he continues to impress in the World Cups. In 52 Test matches for India, he has 77 sixes while in the T20I format, he has scored 182 sixes that have been amassed in 148 matches. He has not played in the shortest format since the T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia. ALSO READ | Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch In 253 ODI matches, he has 297 sixes (at the time of writing), making him one of the greatest ODI batters. He ranks third in the list of most ODI sixes behind Chris Gayle (331) and Pakistan legend Shahid Afridi (351) in the format. Earlier, banking on the batting displays of Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and Azmatullah Omarzai (62) Afghanistan scored 272/8 in 50 overs. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers for India as he scalped four wickets while Hardik Pandya ended with 43/2 in seven overs. India will next take on Pakistan on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with both teams getting off to a perfect start in the World Cup. India and Pakistan have won their opening two matches and will eye another win on Saturday. Interestingly, India have never lost to Pakistan in the World Cup in seven previous meetings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma wreaks havoc with blistering ton as India down Afghanistan in Delhi

On Wednesday (Oct 11), Indian captain Rohit Sharma became the joint-fastest to 1,000 runs in ODI World Cup history during his side's clash versus Afghanistan in the ongoing 2023 edition. Chasing 273 versus the Afghans, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Rohit started off on a positive note with a flurry of boundaries to get to the feat. He, thus, joins David Warner at the top to get to the 1k-run club in just 19 innings.&nbsp;

Least innings to 1,000 runs in World Cups 
19 - David Warner 
19 - Rohit Sharma 
20 - Sachin Tendulkar 
20 - AB de Villiers 
21 - Sir Vivian Richards 
21 - Sourav Ganguly

As many as three Indian batters are in the top six in the elite club. Talking about Rohit, he has had a memorable run in the 50-over World Cup. He missed out on being a part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign&nbsp;in the 2011 edition, played a handy part with the bat in the 2015 edition (where India lost in the semi-finals) before coming to his own in the last edition, in England and Wales.&nbsp;

In 2019, Rohit ended the ODI World Cup -- with India out in the semis -- with 648 runs including five centuries. Overall, he has six centuries in the ODI WC history.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-cwc-23-shardul-thakur-takes-a-stunner-to-send-rahmanullah-gurbaz-packing-watch-645364">Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch</a>

Talking about the India-Afghanistan clash, this is both sides' second outing in the ten-team tournament in India. India lost the toss and were asked to bowl first. At 63/3, India were on top of Afghanistan before captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and Azmatullah Omarzai (62) propelled the Afghans to a challenging 272 for 8.&nbsp;

In reply, India have started on a brilliant note courtesy of Rohit. The home side is looking to make it two wins in a row in the competition after beating Australia by six wickets in Chennai on Sunday (Oct 8).

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On Wednesday (Oct 11), Indian captain Rohit Sharma became the joint-fastest to 1,000 runs in ODI World Cup history during his side's clash versus Afghanistan in the ongoing 2023 edition.

On Wednesday (Oct 11), Indian captain Rohit Sharma became the joint-fastest to 1,000 runs in ODI World Cup history during his side's clash versus Afghanistan in the ongoing 2023 edition. Chasing 273 versus the Afghans, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Rohit started off on a positive note with a flurry of boundaries to get to the feat. He, thus, joins David Warner at the top to get to the 1k-run club in just 19 innings. Least innings to 1,000 runs in World Cups 19 - David Warner 19 - Rohit Sharma 20 - Sachin Tendulkar 20 - AB de Villiers 21 - Sir Vivian Richards 21 - Sourav Ganguly As many as three Indian batters are in the top six in the elite club. Talking about Rohit, he has had a memorable run in the 50-over World Cup. He missed out on being a part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the 2011 edition, played a handy part with the bat in the 2015 edition (where India lost in the semi-finals) before coming to his own in the last edition, in England and Wales. In 2019, Rohit ended the ODI World Cup -- with India out in the semis -- with 648 runs including five centuries. Overall, he has six centuries in the ODI WC history. Also read: Ind vs Afg, CWC '23: Shardul Thakur takes a STUNNER to send Rahmanullah Gurbaz packing - Watch Talking about the India-Afghanistan clash, this is both sides' second outing in the ten-team tournament in India. India lost the toss and were asked to bowl first. At 63/3, India were on top of Afghanistan before captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (80) and Azmatullah Omarzai (62) propelled the Afghans to a challenging 272 for 8. In reply, India have started on a brilliant note courtesy of Rohit. The home side is looking to make it two wins in a row in the competition after beating Australia by six wickets in Chennai on Sunday (Oct 8). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohit Sharma becomes joint-fastest to 1k runs in ODI World Cup history during India-Afghanistan clash

India got off to a winning start in the home ODI World Cup on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Taking on the five-time winners Australia, Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bowl first and rode on Ravindra Jadeja's three-fer and two wickets each from Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah to bundle out the visitors for 199 in 49.3 overs. In reply, India were tottering at 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli's 85 and KL Rahul's 97 not out took them home with six wickets, and 52 balls, to spare.

Now, the Rohit-led Men in Blue will lock horns with Afghanistan in their second outing at the national capital New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11). Talking about Afghanistan, they fell flat in their tournament-opener, losing to Bangladesh in Dharamshala by six wickets after being out for 156. For them to give a good fight versus Team India, they need their batters to stand tall and pull off&nbsp;an all-round&nbsp;effort.&nbsp;

<h2>IND vs AFG, Head-to-head record in ODI World Cup</h2>

So far, both sides have met only once in the ODI World Cup history. In the 2019 edition, Kohli-led India only managed 224 for 8 after opting to bat first in Southampton. In reply, Rashid Khan-starrer Afghans were bundled out for 213 to lose by 11 runs with Mohammed Shami taking a hat-trick.

<h2>Pitch conditions and result prediction:</h2>

The fresh&nbsp;pitches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, prepared using black soil, has made the surface more batting-friendly. Expect another high-scoring affair -- especially if India bat first -- with dew assisting the team batting second as well. It will be interesting to see what the captain winning the toss chooses to do.

India can also consider using a spinner less with one of Shardul Thakur or Mohammed Shami coming in.&nbsp; Overall, Shubman Gill-less India are expected to emerge on top with less hiccups.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/11000-security-personnel-to-be-deployed-for-india-vs-pakistan-odi-world-cup-match-in-ahmedabad-644839">11,000 security personnel to be deployed for India vs Pakistan ODI World Cup match in Ahmedabad</a>

<h2>Predicted Playing XIs:</h2>

According to Dav Whatmore, Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup-winning coach and WION's in-house expert, the potential XIs should be as&nbsp;follows:

India XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Afghanistan XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammed Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi&nbsp;

Match-ups to watch out for:&nbsp; 
R. Sharma vs Fazalhaq Farooqi 
Virat Kohli vs Naveen-ul-Haq 
KL Rahul vs Mujeeb Ur Rahman 
Rahmanullah Gurbaz vs Jasprit Bumrah 
Hashmatullah Shahidi vs Ravindra Jadeja

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India got off to a winning start in the home ODI World Cup on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Taking on the five-time winners Australia, Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bowl first and rode on Ravindra Jadeja's three-fer and two wickets each from Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah to bundle out the visitors for 199 in 49.

India got off to a winning start in the home ODI World Cup on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Taking on the five-time winners Australia, Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bowl first and rode on Ravindra Jadeja's three-fer and two wickets each from Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah to bundle out the visitors for 199 in 49.3 overs. In reply, India were tottering at 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli's 85 and KL Rahul's 97 not out took them home with six wickets, and 52 balls, to spare. Now, the Rohit-led Men in Blue will lock horns with Afghanistan in their second outing at the national capital New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11). Talking about Afghanistan, they fell flat in their tournament-opener, losing to Bangladesh in Dharamshala by six wickets after being out for 156. For them to give a good fight versus Team India, they need their batters to stand tall and pull off an all-round effort. IND vs AFG, Head-to-head record in ODI World Cup So far, both sides have met only once in the ODI World Cup history. In the 2019 edition, Kohli-led India only managed 224 for 8 after opting to bat first in Southampton. In reply, Rashid Khan-starrer Afghans were bundled out for 213 to lose by 11 runs with Mohammed Shami taking a hat-trick. Pitch conditions and result prediction: The fresh pitches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, prepared using black soil, has made the surface more batting-friendly. Expect another high-scoring affair -- especially if India bat first -- with dew assisting the team batting second as well. It will be interesting to see what the captain winning the toss chooses to do. India can also consider using a spinner less with one of Shardul Thakur or Mohammed Shami coming in. Overall, Shubman Gill-less India are expected to emerge on top with less hiccups. Also read: 11,000 security personnel to be deployed for India vs Pakistan ODI World Cup match in Ahmedabad Predicted Playing XIs: According to Dav Whatmore, Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup-winning coach and WION's in-house expert, the potential XIs should be as follows: India XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj Afghanistan XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammed Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi Match-ups to watch out for: R. Sharma vs Fazalhaq Farooqi Virat Kohli vs Naveen-ul-Haq KL Rahul vs Mujeeb Ur Rahman Rahmanullah Gurbaz vs Jasprit Bumrah Hashmatullah Shahidi vs Ravindra Jadeja WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Cup 2023, Match 9: India take on Afghanistan in New Delhi - Preview and result prediction

India beat Australia in match 5 of CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Being asked to bowl first, Indian bowlers restricted Australia to 199 in 49.3 overs with Ravindra Jadeja accounting for 3 for 28, along with two-fers from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav each. In reply, the Men in Blue were 2 for 3 before a 165-run third-wicket stand between KL Rahul (97 not out) and Virat Kohli (85) stole the show and took India home with six wickets, and 52 balls, to spare. Thus, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have opened their CWC 2023 campaign in style.&nbsp;

After the win, many former cricketers and experts of the game lauded Rahul and Kohli for battling a tough period early in the run-chase, buying out some time in the middle, keeping the scoreboard ticking before taking on the attack.

Talking about Rahul, the keeper-batter has been in exceptional form ever since he made his international comeback -- from a hip injury suffered in IPL 2023 -- during the Asia Cup. Since his return, he has had scores of 111*, 39, 19, 58*, 52, 26 and 97*. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished huge praise on the 31-year-old Rahul.&nbsp;

<h2>'KL Rahul doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before'</h2>

Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Irfan analysed Rahul's successful approach post his return and said, "He's been looking very calm. He doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before, now he looks like he's soaking that pressure, and it can be seen in the result. And because of that, he doesn't even seem like he's going to get out while he is batting. He's getting beaten less. That doesn't mean one doesn't get beaten."

He added, "There seems to be control, he's finding the singles, playing the big shots, he's also using the sweep shots, seems to be having a lot of time while pulling the ball. He has worked a lot on his technique, but most importantly he looks like a much better version of himself than before."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-always-performs-on-the-big-stage-sehwag-lauds-star-batter-after-indias-cwc-23-win-over-australia-644513">Kohli always performs on the big stage - Sehwag LAUDS star batter after India's CWC '23 win over Australia</a>

The Indian team management would be mighty pleased with the batting effort as Rahul-Kohli ensured the hosts recovered from early setbacks to win the contest. After this win, India will now shift their focus to their next game, where they take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct&nbsp;11) in New Delhi, India.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India will be keen to make it two wins in a row and continue moving forward in the ten-team tournament at home.

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India beat Australia in match 5 of CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Indian bowlers restricted Australia to 199 in 49.

India beat Australia in match 5 of CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Indian bowlers restricted Australia to 199 in 49.3 overs with Ravindra Jadeja accounting for 3 for 28, along with two-fers from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav each. In reply, the Men in Blue were 2 for 3 before a 165-run third-wicket stand between KL Rahul (97 not out) and Virat Kohli (85) stole the show and took India home with six wickets, and 52 balls, to spare. Thus, Rohit Sharma & Co. have opened their CWC 2023 campaign in style. After the win, many former cricketers and experts of the game lauded Rahul and Kohli for battling a tough period early in the run-chase, buying out some time in the middle, keeping the scoreboard ticking before taking on the attack. Talking about Rahul, the keeper-batter has been in exceptional form ever since he made his international comeback -- from a hip injury suffered in IPL 2023 -- during the Asia Cup. Since his return, he has had scores of 111*, 39, 19, 58*, 52, 26 and 97*. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished huge praise on the 31-year-old Rahul. 'KL Rahul doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before' Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Irfan analysed Rahul's successful approach post his return and said, "He's been looking very calm. He doesn't seem like the Rahul who used to take pressure before, now he looks like he's soaking that pressure, and it can be seen in the result. And because of that, he doesn't even seem like he's going to get out while he is batting. He's getting beaten less. That doesn't mean one doesn't get beaten." He added, "There seems to be control, he's finding the singles, playing the big shots, he's also using the sweep shots, seems to be having a lot of time while pulling the ball. He has worked a lot on his technique, but most importantly he looks like a much better version of himself than before." Also read: Kohli always performs on the big stage - Sehwag LAUDS star batter after India's CWC '23 win over Australia The Indian team management would be mighty pleased with the batting effort as Rahul-Kohli ensured the hosts recovered from early setbacks to win the contest. After this win, India will now shift their focus to their next game, where they take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi, India. Rohit-led India will be keen to make it two wins in a row and continue moving forward in the ten-team tournament at home. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

KL Rahul looks like a much better version of himself, says Irfan Pathan after India beat Australia in CWC 2023

India defeated Australia by six wickets in match 5 of the CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This was the opening game for both sides&nbsp;in the marquee event, which kicked off on October 5 in Ahmedabad. Winning the toss, Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat and were well-placed at 110 for 2 before being reduced to 119 for 5 to be eventually bundled out for 199 in 49.3 overs. Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 28), Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 42) and Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 35) led the charge with the ball before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) constructed a partnership to take India home.

Kohli and Rahul joined forces with India struggling at 2 for 3 before the duo added an impressive 165-run fourth-wicket stand to take India out of troubled waters and steer them to an easy win, with 52 balls remaining. After the clash, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar lauded Rahul for his chanceless knock and hailed his fitness for keeping wickets and swift running between the wickets along with Kohli.&nbsp;

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said, "The way KL Rahul asserted his authority, he looks to be in a different league. Virat Kohli played a great innings but he could not play a chanceless innings. When KL Rahul was batting, he did not give any chance throughout his innings."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-kl-rahul-hits-a-shot-too-well-for-a-six-vs-australia-and-misses-out-on-scoring-100-644319">ODI World Cup 2023: Watch KL Rahul hits a shot TOO WELL for a six vs Australia and misses out on scoring 100</a>

<h2>'People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul...'</h2>

Akhtar further opined, "Rahul hit shots when it was needed, and soaked in pressure with the situation of the game was tough. Virat Kohli's dropped catch was the turning point yes, but KL Rahul giving stability was crucial. You play him at any number - in the middle order, and opening, he does well. Don't forget that he kept wickets as well just before this for 50 overs."

He added, "People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul is running with him too and also after keeping wickets and that needs to be talked about. KL Rahul is a complete player and needs to be backed throughout."

Rahul missed out on a hundred by finishing the match with a sublime six, off Cummins, when he was on 91. Nonetheless, his form bodes well for India who will now take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi.

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India defeated Australia by six wickets in match 5 of the CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This was the opening game for both sides in the marquee event, which kicked off on October 5 in Ahmedabad.

India defeated Australia by six wickets in match 5 of the CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This was the opening game for both sides in the marquee event, which kicked off on October 5 in Ahmedabad. Winning the toss, Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat and were well-placed at 110 for 2 before being reduced to 119 for 5 to be eventually bundled out for 199 in 49.3 overs. Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 28), Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 42) and Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 35) led the charge with the ball before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) constructed a partnership to take India home. Kohli and Rahul joined forces with India struggling at 2 for 3 before the duo added an impressive 165-run fourth-wicket stand to take India out of troubled waters and steer them to an easy win, with 52 balls remaining. After the clash, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar lauded Rahul for his chanceless knock and hailed his fitness for keeping wickets and swift running between the wickets along with Kohli. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said, "The way KL Rahul asserted his authority, he looks to be in a different league. Virat Kohli played a great innings but he could not play a chanceless innings. When KL Rahul was batting, he did not give any chance throughout his innings." Also read: ODI World Cup 2023: Watch KL Rahul hits a shot TOO WELL for a six vs Australia and misses out on scoring 100 'People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul...' Akhtar further opined, "Rahul hit shots when it was needed, and soaked in pressure with the situation of the game was tough. Virat Kohli's dropped catch was the turning point yes, but KL Rahul giving stability was crucial. You play him at any number - in the middle order, and opening, he does well. Don't forget that he kept wickets as well just before this for 50 overs." He added, "People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul is running with him too and also after keeping wickets and that needs to be talked about. KL Rahul is a complete player and needs to be backed throughout." Rahul missed out on a hundred by finishing the match with a sublime six, off Cummins, when he was on 91. Nonetheless, his form bodes well for India who will now take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: 'He looks to be in different league' - Akhtar lauds Rahul for classy 97* in India's win vs Australia

It was Déjà vu for Team India in the ODI World Cup as they suffered an embarrassing start to their innings against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8). The contest at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai brought back memories of the 2019 World Cup semifinal for India where they were reduced to 5/3 against New Zealand, while this time it went bad to worse for them with 2/3 against a lethal Australian pace attack of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

<h2>Déjà vu for India</h2>

Asked to chase 200 in their 50 overs, the Indian team had the worst possible start to their innings as they lost Ishan Kishan on the fourth ball of the innings. Things got even worse for the Men in Blue after skipper Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer were also dismissed in a flash, reducing the hosts to 2/3 in a chaotic start. Interestingly, Ishan, Shreyas, and Rohit all&nbsp;were dismissed for duck.

Hazlewood and Starc were the chief architects of India’s destruction with KL Rahul and Virat Kohli then taking the proceedings to help India get back in the contest.

<h2>What happened in Australia’s innings?</h2>

Spinners headlined India’s ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) the Men in Blue restricted Australia to 199 runs in their innings. India, playing with three spinners in their first match of the World Cup, saw the decision justified as the trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav scalped wickets in tandem. India now need to chase down 200&nbsp;runs to start on the front foot in the World Cup while they will be missing Shubman Gill in the batting department.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-ravi-ashwin-picked-gill-miss-out-as-australia-bat-first-against-india-in-chennai-643969">ODI World Cup 2023: Ravi Ashwin picked, Gill miss out as Australia bat first against India in Chennai</a>

Playing three spinners, it was Jasprit Bumrah who started India’s trade of wickets when he got the better of Mitchell Marsh for a duck on the second ball of the third over. David Warner (41) and Steve Smith (46) would then stitch a 69-run stand for the second wicket before Kuldeep sent the former back to the pavilion. Smith and Labuschagne (27) then tried to bring the Aussies back on track before Ravindra Jadeja&nbsp;showed his class.

With Australia 140/7, the tail-enders showed good resilience to steer their side to 199 with India now needing to push with their batting line-up. For India, Jadeja ended with three wickets while Bumrah and Kuldeep scalped two each. There were wickets each for Ashwin, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Siraj.

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It was Déjà vu for Team India in the ODI World Cup as they suffered an embarrassing start to their innings against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8). The contest at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai brought back memories of the 2019 World Cup semifinal for India where they were reduced to 5/3 against New Zealand, while this time it went bad to worse for them with 2/3 against a lethal Australian pace attack of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

It was Déjà vu for Team India in the ODI World Cup as they suffered an embarrassing start to their innings against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8). The contest at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai brought back memories of the 2019 World Cup semifinal for India where they were reduced to 5/3 against New Zealand, while this time it went bad to worse for them with 2/3 against a lethal Australian pace attack of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Déjà vu for India Asked to chase 200 in their 50 overs, the Indian team had the worst possible start to their innings as they lost Ishan Kishan on the fourth ball of the innings. Things got even worse for the Men in Blue after skipper Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer were also dismissed in a flash, reducing the hosts to 2/3 in a chaotic start. Interestingly, Ishan, Shreyas, and Rohit all were dismissed for duck. Hazlewood and Starc were the chief architects of India’s destruction with KL Rahul and Virat Kohli then taking the proceedings to help India get back in the contest. What happened in Australia’s innings? Spinners headlined India’s ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) the Men in Blue restricted Australia to 199 runs in their innings. India, playing with three spinners in their first match of the World Cup, saw the decision justified as the trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav scalped wickets in tandem. India now need to chase down 200 runs to start on the front foot in the World Cup while they will be missing Shubman Gill in the batting department. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: Ravi Ashwin picked, Gill miss out as Australia bat first against India in Chennai Playing three spinners, it was Jasprit Bumrah who started India’s trade of wickets when he got the better of Mitchell Marsh for a duck on the second ball of the third over. David Warner (41) and Steve Smith (46) would then stitch a 69-run stand for the second wicket before Kuldeep sent the former back to the pavilion. Smith and Labuschagne (27) then tried to bring the Aussies back on track before Ravindra Jadeja showed his class. With Australia 140/7, the tail-enders showed good resilience to steer their side to 199 with India now needing to push with their batting line-up. For India, Jadeja ended with three wickets while Bumrah and Kuldeep scalped two each. There were wickets each for Ashwin, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Siraj. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Deja vu for Team India as Men in Blue suffer embarrassing start in ODI World Cup tie vs Australia

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma hinted at including three spinners in the team that would be taking on Australia, in what will be the first match for both teams in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.&nbsp;The Indian spin trio comprises Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;Being held in Chennai, this will be the 150th&nbsp;International cricket contest between India and Australia. Notably, Ashwin hails from Chennai and Ravindra Jadeja has a great deal of experience playing at this pitch, thanks to his longstanding association with the IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings.

In the pre-match presser, Rohit expressed confidence ahead of Sunday's game and shared that the team had come well prepared. "It means a lot to even be a part of the World Cup team, and getting to captain the side is something I don't know how to describe," he said. Referring to the captaincy bestowed upon him as a huge honour, Rohit said that his sixteen-year long experience would come handy in handling the pressure of playing the World Cup before a home crowd.

In March 2023, Australia had defeated India at Chennai in what was the third and final match of their ODI series in India. They had defeated India by 21 runs and bagged the series 2-1. Commenting on the earlier match, Rohit acknowledged that the team knows what went wrong and it is crucial to not repeat the same mistakes. On the pitch conditions, Rohit said that the pitch in Chennai is known to be tricky, undergo a lot of changes and pose challenges. However, he said that the heat, humidity was lesser compared to that of March.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-womens-kabaddi-team-wins-historic-100th-medal-for-india-watch-643615">Asian Games: India win record 100th medal with gold in Women’s Kabaddi final against Chinese Taipei – WATCH</a>

On the option of playing three spinners, Rohit said that he considered Hardik Pandya as a pace bowler and that the team could play three spinners and three pacers.&nbsp;"He (Hardik) is a proper fast bowler, who can crank up good speed. So that gives us an advantage. That gives us that luxury of playing three spinners and three seamers as well you know so there's a possibility that we can play three spinners on this pitch with three seamers as well, so it gives us that balance."

"We want to be a team where we want to play the best eleven and we need to choose based on conditions. The core team will remain the same, but one odd change will be there," he added.&nbsp;

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Indian skipper Rohit Sharma hinted at including three spinners in the team that would be taking on Australia, in what will be the first match for both teams in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma hinted at including three spinners in the team that would be taking on Australia, in what will be the first match for both teams in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The Indian spin trio comprises Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. Being held in Chennai, this will be the 150th International cricket contest between India and Australia. Notably, Ashwin hails from Chennai and Ravindra Jadeja has a great deal of experience playing at this pitch, thanks to his longstanding association with the IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings. In the pre-match presser, Rohit expressed confidence ahead of Sunday's game and shared that the team had come well prepared. "It means a lot to even be a part of the World Cup team, and getting to captain the side is something I don't know how to describe," he said. Referring to the captaincy bestowed upon him as a huge honour, Rohit said that his sixteen-year long experience would come handy in handling the pressure of playing the World Cup before a home crowd. In March 2023, Australia had defeated India at Chennai in what was the third and final match of their ODI series in India. They had defeated India by 21 runs and bagged the series 2-1. Commenting on the earlier match, Rohit acknowledged that the team knows what went wrong and it is crucial to not repeat the same mistakes. On the pitch conditions, Rohit said that the pitch in Chennai is known to be tricky, undergo a lot of changes and pose challenges. However, he said that the heat, humidity was lesser compared to that of March. ALSO READ | Asian Games: India win record 100th medal with gold in Women’s Kabaddi final against Chinese Taipei – WATCH On the option of playing three spinners, Rohit said that he considered Hardik Pandya as a pace bowler and that the team could play three spinners and three pacers. "He (Hardik) is a proper fast bowler, who can crank up good speed. So that gives us an advantage. That gives us that luxury of playing three spinners and three seamers as well you know so there's a possibility that we can play three spinners on this pitch with three seamers as well, so it gives us that balance." "We want to be a team where we want to play the best eleven and we need to choose based on conditions. The core team will remain the same, but one odd change will be there," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Playing three spinners is an option, says Rohit Sharma ahead of India-Aus clash

Keeper-batter Ishan Kishan will open alongside Captain Rohit Sharma in India’s ODI World Cup 2023 opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) in Chennai. With the man in the purple patch, Shubman Gill, getting diagnosed with dengue fever in the lead-up to the marquee event, he will sit out for a few days, the sources in the know revealed.

Ishan, who got picked to fill the void in middle order if and when required during the long tournament, has to deploy a different approach at the top as hosts India is ready to launch its CWC campaign.

Gill started showing dengue-like symptoms upon Team India’s arrival in Guwahati for their first CWC warm-up tie. After he informed team doctor Rizwan Khan (before India’s second practice match against the Netherlands in Thiruvananthapuram), Gill underwent tests. On Thursday evening, Gill was taken for further tests in Chennai, where it was confirmed that he had dengue fever.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/need-to-change-my-prediction-sehwag-removes-england-from-his-top-4-after-their-big-loss-in-cwc-23-opener-643288">'Need to change my prediction': Sehwag removes England from his top 4 after their big loss in CWC '23 opener</a>

Although the severity of the fever is still being assessed, as per the team doctor, Gill is not experiencing extreme weakness or discomfort.&nbsp;

"He's not feeling well, and the medical team is closely monitoring him. We are hopeful for his speedy recovery,” a team official told Cricbuzz on Friday morning.

Given it takes longer to recover from the dengue fever, with kidneys likely getting affected, Gill’s return timeline is not decided as of yet.&nbsp;

With Gill getting sidelined for a few days at least, likely missing the second game against Afghanistan as well, India would be using Ishan’s services at the top.

Playing at the top, Ishan scored his maiden double hundred against Bangladesh in Dhaka last year.

Even against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 clash, Ishan was the one who weathered the storm and stitched a handy stand with Hardik Pandya to bail India out of trouble.

His grit impressed everyone as selectors opted to pick him as one of the backups in the ODI World Cup squad.

<h2>India likely to play two spinners against Australia</h2>

With India playing their opener against the former five-time winners in Chennai, Rohit will play Ravi Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav as two specialist spinners, sitting out all-rounder Shardul Thakur and seamer Mohammed Shami.

While Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack, number one ODI bowler Mohammed Siraj will be paired alongside him.&nbsp;

<h3>India’s likely XI for the game against Australia</h3>

Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah

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Keeper-batter Ishan Kishan will open alongside Captain Rohit Sharma in India’s ODI World Cup 2023 opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) in Chennai. With the man in the purple patch, Shubman Gill, getting diagnosed with dengue fever in the lead-up to the marquee event, he will sit out for a few days, the sources in the know revealed.

Keeper-batter Ishan Kishan will open alongside Captain Rohit Sharma in India’s ODI World Cup 2023 opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) in Chennai. With the man in the purple patch, Shubman Gill, getting diagnosed with dengue fever in the lead-up to the marquee event, he will sit out for a few days, the sources in the know revealed. Ishan, who got picked to fill the void in middle order if and when required during the long tournament, has to deploy a different approach at the top as hosts India is ready to launch its CWC campaign. Gill started showing dengue-like symptoms upon Team India’s arrival in Guwahati for their first CWC warm-up tie. After he informed team doctor Rizwan Khan (before India’s second practice match against the Netherlands in Thiruvananthapuram), Gill underwent tests. On Thursday evening, Gill was taken for further tests in Chennai, where it was confirmed that he had dengue fever. ALSO READ: 'Need to change my prediction': Sehwag removes England from his top 4 after their big loss in CWC '23 opener Although the severity of the fever is still being assessed, as per the team doctor, Gill is not experiencing extreme weakness or discomfort. "He's not feeling well, and the medical team is closely monitoring him. We are hopeful for his speedy recovery,” a team official told Cricbuzz on Friday morning. Given it takes longer to recover from the dengue fever, with kidneys likely getting affected, Gill’s return timeline is not decided as of yet. With Gill getting sidelined for a few days at least, likely missing the second game against Afghanistan as well, India would be using Ishan’s services at the top. Playing at the top, Ishan scored his maiden double hundred against Bangladesh in Dhaka last year. Even against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 clash, Ishan was the one who weathered the storm and stitched a handy stand with Hardik Pandya to bail India out of trouble. His grit impressed everyone as selectors opted to pick him as one of the backups in the ODI World Cup squad. India likely to play two spinners against Australia With India playing their opener against the former five-time winners in Chennai, Rohit will play Ravi Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav as two specialist spinners, sitting out all-rounder Shardul Thakur and seamer Mohammed Shami. While Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack, number one ODI bowler Mohammed Siraj will be paired alongside him. India’s likely XI for the game against Australia Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup: Ishan Kishan to replace Shubman Gill at top against Australia; India may opt to play 2 spinners

The D-Day is finally here. ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand. For the past few months, there has been good hype around the ODI World Cup, being held entirely in India. Former cricketers and experts of the game have been making some bold predictions and ex-English batter Michael Atherton has also joined the bandwagon and made a very big claim. Atherton feels Pakistan will beat India in the CWC '23 edition face-off.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan have met each other on seven occasions in the 50-over World Cup history&nbsp;since 1992. On every occasion, the Men in Blue have beaten their arch-rivals Pakistan, but Atherton feels Babar Azam &amp; Co. will beat Rohit Sharma's Team India in the 2023 edition.&nbsp;Speaking about the clash on Sky Sports, the former England captain stated that the Men in Green will go past India&nbsp;this time around and win their first match against their arch-rivals in World Cup history.

India will host Pakistan in match 12 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 14 (Saturday). Atherton said that the match&nbsp;will be the biggest match of this year's World Cup unless both sides lock horns in the final or semi-final.

"As my bold prediction, I'm saying that for the first time in a 50-over World Cup Pakistan will beat India. They have won zero out of seven over the years. It's going to be the biggest game of the tournament, unless they meet again in a semi-final or, could you imagine, the final. It is sure to be a packed house; it will be mayhem and maybe Pakistan will jump a surprise," said Atherton.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-rohit-sharma-opens-up-on-team-indias-approach-says-not-thinking-too-much-about-642633">ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India's approach, says 'not thinking too much about...'</a>

Pakistan play their first game&nbsp;on Friday (October 6) in Hyderabad, versus the Netherlands. Meanwhile, India will open their campaign in CWC '23 on October 8 when they face Australia in Chennai.

India squad for CWC '23:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav

Pakistan squad for CWC '23:&nbsp;Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali

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The D-Day is finally here. ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand. For the past few months, there has been good hype around the ODI World Cup, being held entirely in India.

The D-Day is finally here. ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand. For the past few months, there has been good hype around the ODI World Cup, being held entirely in India. Former cricketers and experts of the game have been making some bold predictions and ex-English batter Michael Atherton has also joined the bandwagon and made a very big claim. Atherton feels Pakistan will beat India in the CWC '23 edition face-off. India and Pakistan have met each other on seven occasions in the 50-over World Cup history since 1992. On every occasion, the Men in Blue have beaten their arch-rivals Pakistan, but Atherton feels Babar Azam & Co. will beat Rohit Sharma's Team India in the 2023 edition. Speaking about the clash on Sky Sports, the former England captain stated that the Men in Green will go past India this time around and win their first match against their arch-rivals in World Cup history. India will host Pakistan in match 12 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 14 (Saturday). Atherton said that the match will be the biggest match of this year's World Cup unless both sides lock horns in the final or semi-final. "As my bold prediction, I'm saying that for the first time in a 50-over World Cup Pakistan will beat India. They have won zero out of seven over the years. It's going to be the biggest game of the tournament, unless they meet again in a semi-final or, could you imagine, the final. It is sure to be a packed house; it will be mayhem and maybe Pakistan will jump a surprise," said Atherton. Also read: ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India's approach, says 'not thinking too much about...' Pakistan play their first game on Friday (October 6) in Hyderabad, versus the Netherlands. Meanwhile, India will open their campaign in CWC '23 on October 8 when they face Australia in Chennai. India squad for CWC '23: Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav Pakistan squad for CWC '23: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan will beat India for the first-time in ODI World Cup history: Former England batter makes BOLD claim

India skipper Rohit Sharma has opened up on his team’s approach as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup which starts on Thursday (Oct 5). Rohit, one of the 10 captains in the marquee tournament, will eye glory but insists his team will take one match at a time during the tournament. All the 10 captains participating in the World Cup met on the eve of the curtain-raiser in the pre-tournament shoot where Rohit opened on his team’s approach.

<h2>Rohit opens on team’s approach</h2>

“Not thinking too much about it, honestly it has happened in the last three editions of the World Cup but all I can say is we are going to try our best, give our best, and enjoy the tournament. That’s all I can say at this point in time because it’s a pretty long tournament and I do understand that you can’t get too far ahead of yourself. So, it’s important for us that we try and focus on one job at a time and then move on from there,” Sharma said in the captain's event arranged on Wednesday.

India will look to become the fourth consecutive nation to win the ODI World Cup on home soil, a tradition that started with the hosts in 2011. India became the first nation to win the ODI World Cup on home turf when MS Dhoni’s troops defeated Sri Lanka in the final in 2011 while Australia and England then followed the success story in 2015 and 2019 respectively.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cwc-23-from-sourav-ganguly-to-md-azharuddin-indian-captains-with-most-sixes-in-an-odi-world-cup-642491">CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup</a>

Rohit will look for a repeat of his 2019 performance&nbsp;where he smashed five hundreds and led the side to the semifinals. He was in explosive form in England as he scored 648 runs in nine matches and was the highest scorer in the tournament. A repeat of that could see India in pole position to lift the World Cup as they also have the home advantage on their side.

India will start their World Cup campaign on Sunday (Oct 8) against Australia in Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. India will have recent history on their side having beaten the team from down under 2-1 in the ODI series in September.

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India skipper Rohit Sharma has opened up on his team’s approach as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup which starts on Thursday (Oct 5). Rohit, one of the 10 captains in the marquee tournament, will eye glory but insists his team will take one match at a time during the tournament.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has opened up on his team’s approach as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup which starts on Thursday (Oct 5). Rohit, one of the 10 captains in the marquee tournament, will eye glory but insists his team will take one match at a time during the tournament. All the 10 captains participating in the World Cup met on the eve of the curtain-raiser in the pre-tournament shoot where Rohit opened on his team’s approach. Rohit opens on team’s approach “Not thinking too much about it, honestly it has happened in the last three editions of the World Cup but all I can say is we are going to try our best, give our best, and enjoy the tournament. That’s all I can say at this point in time because it’s a pretty long tournament and I do understand that you can’t get too far ahead of yourself. So, it’s important for us that we try and focus on one job at a time and then move on from there,” Sharma said in the captain's event arranged on Wednesday. India will look to become the fourth consecutive nation to win the ODI World Cup on home soil, a tradition that started with the hosts in 2011. India became the first nation to win the ODI World Cup on home turf when MS Dhoni’s troops defeated Sri Lanka in the final in 2011 while Australia and England then followed the success story in 2015 and 2019 respectively. ALSO READ | CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup Rohit will look for a repeat of his 2019 performance where he smashed five hundreds and led the side to the semifinals. He was in explosive form in England as he scored 648 runs in nine matches and was the highest scorer in the tournament. A repeat of that could see India in pole position to lift the World Cup as they also have the home advantage on their side. India will start their World Cup campaign on Sunday (Oct 8) against Australia in Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. India will have recent history on their side having beaten the team from down under 2-1 in the ODI series in September. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India's approach, says 'not thinking too much about...'

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is just days away and India is one of the strong contestants to lift the trophy. Over the years, Indian batters have dominated the World Cup batting charts, and the fans hope this edition will also be the same. As India prepares for the ODI World Cup, here are the TOP FIVE Indian batters with the most runs in the ICC ODI World Cups.

ICC ODI World Cup: Top five run-getters for India

Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35. Ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on October 5 (Thursday), the Indian captain Rohit expressed his gratitude for leading India across formats as he believes many big names missed out on becoming the national side's skipper in the past.

When India last hosted the ODI World Cup, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the coveted title (for the second time overall in the country's rich cricketing history). Back then, Rohit was not even part of the World Cup squad. In the current scenario, Hitman will be leading India in the mega event where the hosts' campaign starts on October 8, facing Australia in Chennai.&nbsp;

Since taking over as India's captain, Rohit has had mixed results -- with a semi-final exit in 2022 T20 World Cup, WTC final loss and Asia Cup title last month. Thus, the 36-year-old will be eager to help India lift the 50-over World Cup once again and leave an impact as a captain. Ahead of his stint as captain in the marquee event, Rohit acknowledged the role and responsibility given to him, mentioning that some superstar players such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, etc. did not have&nbsp;the luxury to lead despite having stellar careers.

Talking to the Indian Express, Rohit said, "Obviously, you want to be at your peak for this, say when you are 26-27. But you cannot always get what you want. You are talking about the Indian captaincy and there have been stalwarts in the Indian team. Many more players deserved to be the captain of the team. I had to wait for my turn and that's absolutely fair enough. The guys before, Virat was before me, so was MS (Dhoni)."

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<h2>'Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain'</h2>

"Just look at the names that missed out: Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag … these are all stalwarts of Indian cricket. Not to forget Yuvraj Singh. He never captained India. Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain at some stage but he didn’t get it. That's life. I got it now and I am grateful for it. I would rather have it when I know how to captain a team, when I know what is required and all. Rather than when I don’t know the ABCD of captaincy. So in that respect, this is good," Hitman added.

Rohit will look to create a legacy by helping India win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, on November 19. This will be his third&nbsp;World Cup, and last in all likelihood, hence, he will be desperate to leave on a high.

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Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35.

Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35. Ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on October 5 (Thursday), the Indian captain Rohit expressed his gratitude for leading India across formats as he believes many big names missed out on becoming the national side's skipper in the past. When India last hosted the ODI World Cup, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the coveted title (for the second time overall in the country's rich cricketing history). Back then, Rohit was not even part of the World Cup squad. In the current scenario, Hitman will be leading India in the mega event where the hosts' campaign starts on October 8, facing Australia in Chennai. Since taking over as India's captain, Rohit has had mixed results -- with a semi-final exit in 2022 T20 World Cup, WTC final loss and Asia Cup title last month. Thus, the 36-year-old will be eager to help India lift the 50-over World Cup once again and leave an impact as a captain. Ahead of his stint as captain in the marquee event, Rohit acknowledged the role and responsibility given to him, mentioning that some superstar players such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, etc. did not have the luxury to lead despite having stellar careers. Talking to the Indian Express, Rohit said, "Obviously, you want to be at your peak for this, say when you are 26-27. But you cannot always get what you want. You are talking about the Indian captaincy and there have been stalwarts in the Indian team. Many more players deserved to be the captain of the team. I had to wait for my turn and that's absolutely fair enough. The guys before, Virat was before me, so was MS (Dhoni)." × Also read: No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists 'Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain' "Just look at the names that missed out: Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag … these are all stalwarts of Indian cricket. Not to forget Yuvraj Singh. He never captained India. Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain at some stage but he didn’t get it. That's life. I got it now and I am grateful for it. I would rather have it when I know how to captain a team, when I know what is required and all. Rather than when I don’t know the ABCD of captaincy. So in that respect, this is good," Hitman added. Rohit will look to create a legacy by helping India win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, on November 19. This will be his third World Cup, and last in all likelihood, hence, he will be desperate to leave on a high. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj missed out': Rohit opines on his captaincy, 'grateful' to lead India in CWC '23

CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup

Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of India's tournament opener, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the Indian captain can play the accumulator role, rather than being the aggressor at the top, in the mega event as it will help him score daddy hundreds he is known for. In the recent past, especially since taking over as the Indian captain, Rohit has often tried to go hard at the top to help India start aggressively. However, he has often paid the price for losing his wicket after getting starts.&nbsp;

Thus, Bangar feels Rohit should play the accumulator's role in the upcoming marquee event, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand.&nbsp;

"I feel the one of an accumulator (on what role should he play?). He is someone who has had phenomenal success as an ODI player. And many times that he has scored his hundred, it's around the 30th over. All those 3 double hundreds that we speak of and rave of so much, the acceleration came toward the last 10-12 overs where he just toys with the bowling," Bangar told Star Sports in response to a question from India Today.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-bumrah-but-this-indian-bowler-to-wreak-havoc-in-world-cup-mohammed-amir-641863">Not Bumrah, but THIS Indian bowler to wreak havoc in World Cup: Mohammed Amir</a>

Bangar further pointed out, "So a dangerous Rohit Sharma, if he gets to that 35-over mark, then India is assured of a score of around 350. If he sticks to that sort of a template&nbsp;I know he is trying to do certain other things, maybe take the game away from the bowlers, but he has got a phenomenal, fearless Shubman Gill, he can afford to play the accumulator which will guarantee that India will get a big total. Everyone wants to bat long and score those 150s and 170s. I still want to do that, but it is always nice to do something that you have not done. It only adds up to your list of batting abilities. Unless you do it, you won't know it.

''I know if I play high-risk shots, I will get out a few times but I didn't bother. This was communicated by me to the management that this is how I want to play," the former Indian opener added.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if Rohit takes on the bowlers from the word go in the World Cup or starts cautiously before going berserk. Having led India to the Asia Cup title last month, he will be confident leading India in the ICC event. India will look to win their third ODI World Cup and also end their ten-year-long ICC title drought.&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of India's tournament opener, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the Indian captain can play the accumulator role, rather than being the aggressor at the top, in the mega event as it will help him score daddy hundreds he is known for.

Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of India's tournament opener, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the Indian captain can play the accumulator role, rather than being the aggressor at the top, in the mega event as it will help him score daddy hundreds he is known for. In the recent past, especially since taking over as the Indian captain, Rohit has often tried to go hard at the top to help India start aggressively. However, he has often paid the price for losing his wicket after getting starts. Thus, Bangar feels Rohit should play the accumulator's role in the upcoming marquee event, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand. "I feel the one of an accumulator (on what role should he play?). He is someone who has had phenomenal success as an ODI player. And many times that he has scored his hundred, it's around the 30th over. All those 3 double hundreds that we speak of and rave of so much, the acceleration came toward the last 10-12 overs where he just toys with the bowling," Bangar told Star Sports in response to a question from India Today. Also read: Not Bumrah, but THIS Indian bowler to wreak havoc in World Cup: Mohammed Amir Bangar further pointed out, "So a dangerous Rohit Sharma, if he gets to that 35-over mark, then India is assured of a score of around 350. If he sticks to that sort of a template I know he is trying to do certain other things, maybe take the game away from the bowlers, but he has got a phenomenal, fearless Shubman Gill, he can afford to play the accumulator which will guarantee that India will get a big total. Everyone wants to bat long and score those 150s and 170s. I still want to do that, but it is always nice to do something that you have not done. It only adds up to your list of batting abilities. Unless you do it, you won't know it. ''I know if I play high-risk shots, I will get out a few times but I didn't bother. This was communicated by me to the management that this is how I want to play," the former Indian opener added. It will be interesting to see if Rohit takes on the bowlers from the word go in the World Cup or starts cautiously before going berserk. Having led India to the Asia Cup title last month, he will be confident leading India in the ICC event. India will look to win their third ODI World Cup and also end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: Rohit can afford to play the accumulator role and score big hundreds, feels former India batter

Sachin Tendulkar fulfilled his dream of winning the ODI World Cup in his last edition, when India won the coveted title in 2011. Co-hosting the tournament along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, MS Dhoni &amp; Co. went on to beat Sri Lanka in the final in pursuit of 275, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 2, to win the trophy after 28 years and sent the entire nation into a frenzy.

Tendulkar, who was playing his last 50-over World Cup, was carried on the shoulders&nbsp;by the likes of&nbsp;Yusuf Pathan, Virat Kohli,&nbsp;Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh,&nbsp;as they gave him a fitting tribute. Now, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag -- part of India's 2011 victorious run -- wants Kohli to win the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 and be carried on his teammates' shoulders.

“Cheeku (Kohli) didn’t score a single century in the 2019 World Cup, this year I hope he scores many hundreds and ends up as the leading run-scorer in the tournament. Then, I want him to be carried on the shoulders and get a round of the ground," Sehwag told on Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-the-most-difficult-to-bowl-at-says-shadab-khan-ahead-of-india-pakistan-cwc-23-tie-641675">Rohit Sharma is the most difficult to bowl at, says Shadab Khan ahead of India-Pakistan CWC '23 tie</a>

In addition, Sehwag went on to say that Rohit Sharma and Kohli deserve to win the forthcoming World Cup, which gets underway on October 05. Sehwag pointed out that Rohit just missed being part of the victorious 2011 batch and labelled him&nbsp;a fantastic player.

<h2>'Rohit &amp; Kohli deserve to win 2023 ODI&nbsp;World Cup'</h2>

“These two (Rohit &amp; Kohli) senior players deserve to win the World Cup. Rohit Sharma was so close to getting picked for the 2011 World Cup but missed out. Later he became the Badshah of ODIs, he deserves to win a World Cup trophy because he is a fantastic player," said Sehwag.

It is to be noted that Kohli will be playing his fourth edition of the ODI World Cup since 2011. Meanwhile, this will be Rohit's third appearance at the 50-over showpiece. Both the veterans will be desperate to help the national side break their ten-year-long ICC title drought and help India clinch their third ODI World Cup title.

India open their campaign on October 08 versus Australia in Chennai.&nbsp;

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Sachin Tendulkar fulfilled his dream of winning the ODI World Cup in his last edition, when India won the coveted title in 2011. Co-hosting the tournament along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, MS Dhoni & Co.

Sachin Tendulkar fulfilled his dream of winning the ODI World Cup in his last edition, when India won the coveted title in 2011. Co-hosting the tournament along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, MS Dhoni & Co. went on to beat Sri Lanka in the final in pursuit of 275, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 2, to win the trophy after 28 years and sent the entire nation into a frenzy. Tendulkar, who was playing his last 50-over World Cup, was carried on the shoulders by the likes of Yusuf Pathan, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh, as they gave him a fitting tribute. Now, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag -- part of India's 2011 victorious run -- wants Kohli to win the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 and be carried on his teammates' shoulders. “Cheeku (Kohli) didn’t score a single century in the 2019 World Cup, this year I hope he scores many hundreds and ends up as the leading run-scorer in the tournament. Then, I want him to be carried on the shoulders and get a round of the ground," Sehwag told on Cricbuzz. Also read: Rohit Sharma is the most difficult to bowl at, says Shadab Khan ahead of India-Pakistan CWC '23 tie In addition, Sehwag went on to say that Rohit Sharma and Kohli deserve to win the forthcoming World Cup, which gets underway on October 05. Sehwag pointed out that Rohit just missed being part of the victorious 2011 batch and labelled him a fantastic player. 'Rohit & Kohli deserve to win 2023 ODI World Cup' “These two (Rohit & Kohli) senior players deserve to win the World Cup. Rohit Sharma was so close to getting picked for the 2011 World Cup but missed out. Later he became the Badshah of ODIs, he deserves to win a World Cup trophy because he is a fantastic player," said Sehwag. It is to be noted that Kohli will be playing his fourth edition of the ODI World Cup since 2011. Meanwhile, this will be Rohit's third appearance at the 50-over showpiece. Both the veterans will be desperate to help the national side break their ten-year-long ICC title drought and help India clinch their third ODI World Cup title. India open their campaign on October 08 versus Australia in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Want Virat Kohli to win World Cup 2023 and be carried on shoulders: Former India star Virender Sehwag

Ahead of the CWC 2023 commencement&nbsp;on October 05 in Ahmedabad, Pakistan spinner and vice-captain Shadab Khan has hailed Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Shadab, who had a forgettable run in Asia Cup 2023, feels Hitman is the 'most difficult to bowl at'. Meanwhile, he also heaped praise on in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav and called him the most formidable Indian bowler. Kuldeep has been on a stellar run and will enter the upcoming World Cup after helping India win the Asia Cup and returning as Player Of The Tournament.

On Rohit, Shadab told reporters in Hyderabad, "I admire Rohit Sharma a lot and, among the leading batsmen in the world, he is the most difficult to bowl at. Once he gets set, he becomes very dangerous. Among the bowlers, since I am a leg-spinner, it will be Kuldeep Yadav given his recent form."

Rohit had taken Shadab to the cleaners with some big sixes during India and Pakistan's last encounter, which took place during the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup in Colombo. In the face-off, Shadab ended with 71 runs in ten overs and claimed a solitary wicket. The experienced campaigner didn't bowl in Pakistan's first World Cup warm-up game, where they failed to defend 346 versus New Zealand in Hyderabad, and, thus, his form will be closely monitored in Men in Green's last practice clash, where they face Australia on October 03 in Hyderabad.

Shadab will look to draw inspiration from India's in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who ended with nine wickets in the Asia Cup. Lauding the 28-year-old, Shadab said, "As a leg spinner, I like Kuldeep Yadav a lot. He is a great leg spinner and in sublime form. Bowling in such conditions is not easy especially for a spinner as the tracks are flat but he has done well."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-chance-to-create-history-david-miller-on-south-africa-breaking-world-cup-deadlock-641486">We have chance to create history: David Miller on South Africa breaking World Cup deadlock</a>

Pakistan will open their CWC 2023 campaign versus the Netherlands on October 06 in Hyderabad. After that, they will face Sri Lanka, also in the same city, before travelling to Ahmedabad to lock horns with Rohit-led India in a high-voltage clash at CWC 2023 on October 14.&nbsp;

Pakistan squad for World Cup: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali

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Ahead of the CWC 2023 commencement on October 05 in Ahmedabad, Pakistan spinner and vice-captain Shadab Khan has hailed Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Shadab, who had a forgettable run in Asia Cup 2023, feels Hitman is the 'most difficult to bowl at'.

Ahead of the CWC 2023 commencement on October 05 in Ahmedabad, Pakistan spinner and vice-captain Shadab Khan has hailed Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Shadab, who had a forgettable run in Asia Cup 2023, feels Hitman is the 'most difficult to bowl at'. Meanwhile, he also heaped praise on in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav and called him the most formidable Indian bowler. Kuldeep has been on a stellar run and will enter the upcoming World Cup after helping India win the Asia Cup and returning as Player Of The Tournament. On Rohit, Shadab told reporters in Hyderabad, "I admire Rohit Sharma a lot and, among the leading batsmen in the world, he is the most difficult to bowl at. Once he gets set, he becomes very dangerous. Among the bowlers, since I am a leg-spinner, it will be Kuldeep Yadav given his recent form." Rohit had taken Shadab to the cleaners with some big sixes during India and Pakistan's last encounter, which took place during the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup in Colombo. In the face-off, Shadab ended with 71 runs in ten overs and claimed a solitary wicket. The experienced campaigner didn't bowl in Pakistan's first World Cup warm-up game, where they failed to defend 346 versus New Zealand in Hyderabad, and, thus, his form will be closely monitored in Men in Green's last practice clash, where they face Australia on October 03 in Hyderabad. Shadab will look to draw inspiration from India's in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who ended with nine wickets in the Asia Cup. Lauding the 28-year-old, Shadab said, "As a leg spinner, I like Kuldeep Yadav a lot. He is a great leg spinner and in sublime form. Bowling in such conditions is not easy especially for a spinner as the tracks are flat but he has done well." Also read: We have chance to create history: David Miller on South Africa breaking World Cup deadlock Pakistan will open their CWC 2023 campaign versus the Netherlands on October 06 in Hyderabad. After that, they will face Sri Lanka, also in the same city, before travelling to Ahmedabad to lock horns with Rohit-led India in a high-voltage clash at CWC 2023 on October 14. Pakistan squad for World Cup: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohit Sharma is the most difficult to bowl at, says Shadab Khan ahead of India-Pakistan CWC '23 tie

Australia's star batter Marnus Labuschagne was full of praise for India skipper Rohit Sharma as he lauded him before the high-profile clash in the ODI World Cup. Both Rohit and Labuschagne will be essential to their team’s success when Australia meet India in Chennai in their first ODI World Cup match on Sunday, October 8. India will have a huge mental advantage ahead of the contest having beaten the team from down under 2-1 in the recently concluded ODI series.

<h2>Marnus lauds Rohit</h2>

"Rohit Sharma is someone who scores&nbsp;quite freely without taking any risks. He's very hard to stop once get going," Marnus Labuschagne told FOX Cricket.

Labuschagne was in good nick during the ODI series against India having amassed 138 runs in three matches. He averaged 46 during the series with a best of 72 in the Rajkot ODI. The 29-year-old was initially dropped from the World Cup squad but made the cut after Ashton Agar was shown the doors. Glenn Maxwell’s rise as a specialist spin bowler paved the way for Australia to drop Agar in favour of Labuschagne.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trent-bridge-cricket-ground-to-rename-pavilion-end-after-former-england-great-stuart-broad-641200">Trent Bridge cricket ground to rename Pavilion End after former England bowler Stuart Broad</a>

"As I said to Rohit out there when we were walking. I said ‘I am watching whatever you do, I want to learn. You guys are the best in these conditions. We are foreign to these conditions. You learn from the opposition, you learn from the way they do it. We try and learn and grow with each game," he further added.

At the time of writing, India’s preparations for the World Cup saw a big spanner in the work as their warm-up clash against England was called off. With rain playing spoilsport in Guwahati, the contest was called off without any ball being bowled. India will now get only the Netherlands match to prepare before they take the field against Australia in the ODI World Cup.

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Australia's star batter Marnus Labuschagne was full of praise for India skipper Rohit Sharma as he lauded him before the high-profile clash in the ODI World Cup.

Australia's star batter Marnus Labuschagne was full of praise for India skipper Rohit Sharma as he lauded him before the high-profile clash in the ODI World Cup. Both Rohit and Labuschagne will be essential to their team’s success when Australia meet India in Chennai in their first ODI World Cup match on Sunday, October 8. India will have a huge mental advantage ahead of the contest having beaten the team from down under 2-1 in the recently concluded ODI series. Marnus lauds Rohit "Rohit Sharma is someone who scores quite freely without taking any risks. He's very hard to stop once get going," Marnus Labuschagne told FOX Cricket. Labuschagne was in good nick during the ODI series against India having amassed 138 runs in three matches. He averaged 46 during the series with a best of 72 in the Rajkot ODI. The 29-year-old was initially dropped from the World Cup squad but made the cut after Ashton Agar was shown the doors. Glenn Maxwell’s rise as a specialist spin bowler paved the way for Australia to drop Agar in favour of Labuschagne. ALSO READ | Trent Bridge cricket ground to rename Pavilion End after former England bowler Stuart Broad "As I said to Rohit out there when we were walking. I said ‘I am watching whatever you do, I want to learn. You guys are the best in these conditions. We are foreign to these conditions. You learn from the opposition, you learn from the way they do it. We try and learn and grow with each game," he further added. At the time of writing, India’s preparations for the World Cup saw a big spanner in the work as their warm-up clash against England was called off. With rain playing spoilsport in Guwahati, the contest was called off without any ball being bowled. India will now get only the Netherlands match to prepare before they take the field against Australia in the ODI World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup: Marnus Labuschagne lauds Rohit Sharma before blockbuster clash, says 'he's very hard to stop'

Legendary Sri Lanka bowler Muttiah Muralitharan has backed hosts India and defending champions England to clinch glory in the upcoming ODI World Cup as the preparations are in the final stage. Murali, the only bowler to pick 800 wickets in Test cricket, will launch his biopic 800&nbsp;in the first week of October and was recently in India. Murali also backed Australia as another team to watch out for as they have all the tools in the arsenal to clinch World Cup glory.

<h2>Murali backs India, England</h2>

“I would say India, England, Australia, and the fourth team can be anyone. These three have more chances. But you never know, cricket is all about luck. As seen in the last World Cup, we thought that New Zealand would win and England won the trophy with luck favouring them,” Murali said during the pre-launch interview.

Speaking on the advantage sub-continent teams could have, Murali believes India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan can have a big impact. India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka made it to the last four in the 2011 edition when the World Cup was last held in India. In 1996, India and Sri Lanka were in the semifinals while the former was in the semifinals in 1987.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Definitely, the teams from the subcontinent will get an advantage because of the spin-friendly wickets, and their batters are used to playing spin,” Murali added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trent-bridge-cricket-ground-to-rename-pavilion-end-after-former-england-great-stuart-broad-641200">Trent Bridge cricket ground to rename Pavilion End after former England bowler Stuart Broad</a>

India will start their World Cup campaign against five-time champions Australia in Chennai on Sunday, October 8 while England will take on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser on Thursday. The latter clash will be a repeat of the 2019 edition’s final as New Zealand will have a score to settle against Buttler’s army.

India‘s first warm-up game against England on Saturday at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was washed out after rain. India beat England in the three-match ODI series in July 2022, but plenty of water has gone under the bridge since as both will look to start the campaign on a high.

 
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Legendary Sri Lanka bowler Muttiah Muralitharan has backed hosts India and defending champions England to clinch glory in the upcoming ODI World Cup as the preparations are in the final stage.

Legendary Sri Lanka bowler Muttiah Muralitharan has backed hosts India and defending champions England to clinch glory in the upcoming ODI World Cup as the preparations are in the final stage. Murali, the only bowler to pick 800 wickets in Test cricket, will launch his biopic 800 in the first week of October and was recently in India. Murali also backed Australia as another team to watch out for as they have all the tools in the arsenal to clinch World Cup glory. Murali backs India, England “I would say India, England, Australia, and the fourth team can be anyone. These three have more chances. But you never know, cricket is all about luck. As seen in the last World Cup, we thought that New Zealand would win and England won the trophy with luck favouring them,” Murali said during the pre-launch interview. Speaking on the advantage sub-continent teams could have, Murali believes India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan can have a big impact. India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka made it to the last four in the 2011 edition when the World Cup was last held in India. In 1996, India and Sri Lanka were in the semifinals while the former was in the semifinals in 1987. “Definitely, the teams from the subcontinent will get an advantage because of the spin-friendly wickets, and their batters are used to playing spin,” Murali added. ALSO READ | Trent Bridge cricket ground to rename Pavilion End after former England bowler Stuart Broad India will start their World Cup campaign against five-time champions Australia in Chennai on Sunday, October 8 while England will take on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser on Thursday. The latter clash will be a repeat of the 2019 edition’s final as New Zealand will have a score to settle against Buttler’s army. India‘s first warm-up game against England on Saturday at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was washed out after rain. India beat England in the three-match ODI series in July 2022, but plenty of water has gone under the bridge since as both will look to start the campaign on a high. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup: Sri Lanka legend backs India, England to clinch glory, considers Australia a strong contender

India will enter the ODI World Cup 2023 as a very strong contender to win the title. The home side, under Rohit Sharma, won the Asia Cup last month and won the three ODI series versus Australia 2-1, at home, which concluded on Wednesday (September 27). Rohit Sharma-led Team India will kick off their World Cup campaign on October 8 when they face Australia in their respective openers in Chennai. Ahead of the Chennai battle, former Indian cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Irfan Pathan discussed India's playing XI for the Australia clash.&nbsp;

Gavaskar has backed captain Rohit, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, vice-captain Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja as the top seven whereas named Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the frontline bowlers. Thus, his XI doesn't have R Ashwin -- who was included in India's final 15 after Axar Patel got ruled out on Thursday (September 28) -- but the Little Master feels the 37-year-old could be added if India go ahead with three spinners.

Gavaskar's India XI for World Cup opener against Australia: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah.

Speaking on Star Sports, he said, "You can pick three fast bowlers in Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah or else can pick two fast bowlers because you also have Hardik Pandya then Ashwin will definitely be there."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-india-need-to-stick-with-kl-rahul-at-no-4-feels-2011-winner-yuvraj-singh-640886">World Cup 2023: India need to stick with KL Rahul at No. 4, feels 2011 winner Yuvraj Singh</a>

On the other hand, former all-rounder Irfan stated, "I completely agree with the top 7. But it boils down to the bowling department. I want India to play five proper bowlers. Since you have Hardik as the sixth bowler you should go with bowlers having wicket-taking abilities. It is because the pitches India will get now will have dew factor involved so then you need to have a solid bowling line-up. So you either pick three pacers or if you feel like you want to get someone to accompany Kuldeep Yadav and Jadeja...on a turning track, and if Ashwin is good enough the pick him."

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India will enter the ODI World Cup 2023 as a very strong contender to win the title. The home side, under Rohit Sharma, won the Asia Cup last month and won the three ODI series versus Australia 2-1, at home, which concluded on Wednesday (September 27).

India will enter the ODI World Cup 2023 as a very strong contender to win the title. The home side, under Rohit Sharma, won the Asia Cup last month and won the three ODI series versus Australia 2-1, at home, which concluded on Wednesday (September 27). Rohit Sharma-led Team India will kick off their World Cup campaign on October 8 when they face Australia in their respective openers in Chennai. Ahead of the Chennai battle, former Indian cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Irfan Pathan discussed India's playing XI for the Australia clash. Gavaskar has backed captain Rohit, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, vice-captain Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja as the top seven whereas named Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the frontline bowlers. Thus, his XI doesn't have R Ashwin -- who was included in India's final 15 after Axar Patel got ruled out on Thursday (September 28) -- but the Little Master feels the 37-year-old could be added if India go ahead with three spinners. Gavaskar's India XI for World Cup opener against Australia: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking on Star Sports, he said, "You can pick three fast bowlers in Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah or else can pick two fast bowlers because you also have Hardik Pandya then Ashwin will definitely be there." Also read: World Cup 2023: India need to stick with KL Rahul at No. 4, feels 2011 winner Yuvraj Singh On the other hand, former all-rounder Irfan stated, "I completely agree with the top 7. But it boils down to the bowling department. I want India to play five proper bowlers. Since you have Hardik as the sixth bowler you should go with bowlers having wicket-taking abilities. It is because the pitches India will get now will have dew factor involved so then you need to have a solid bowling line-up. So you either pick three pacers or if you feel like you want to get someone to accompany Kuldeep Yadav and Jadeja...on a turning track, and if Ashwin is good enough the pick him." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Will R Ashwin get a game vs Australia? Sunil Gavaskar, Irfan Pathan pick India's XI for opening game

After an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs versus Australia, India entered the third and final match&nbsp;in Rajkot with an aim to inflict a clean sweep on Wednesday (September 27). However, Rohit Sharma-led India conceded the game by 66 runs in what was both the sides' last international outing before the CWC 2023 edition, which starts on October 05.

Being asked to bowl, India conceded 352 for 5 as Australia rode on Mitchell Marsh's 96, Steve Smith's 74, Marnus Labuschagne's 72 and David Warner's 56. In reply, India started off on a positive note with fifties from Rohit (81) and Virat Kohli (56) before losing their way to get all-out for 286 in 49.4 overs. After the game, India's head coach Rahul Dravid summed up India's CWC '23 preparations and feels 'really happy' with how things have been for the home side heading into the marquee event.

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"Jasprit got a couple of games, and bowled his quota of 10 overs. Siraj suffered from a bug but got back and was able to bowl today. It was good to see how Ashwin bowled in the first two games. KL and his keeping through fifty overs, returning after 6 months, has been great. Shreyas has got some good knocks in the last couple of games. Really happy with how things are going and hopefully we can keep the momentum going into the World Cup."
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-jasprit-bumrah-ends-with-his-second-most-expensive-spell-in-rajkot-odi-640237">Ind vs Aus: Jasprit Bumrah ends with his second-most expensive spell in Rajkot ODI</a>

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Dravid further stated, "There are always areas you want to improve on, and we have ticked a lot of boxes. It's nice to see that the guys who have been out with injury, been away from a while, from our perspective, they've been able to get some good cricket, been able to spend time in the middle, get some runs, take some wickets, but there are always little things that you can improve.
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"It's going to be a long, tough tournament. We're constantly looking to improve as a team, even when we have results going our way," he added.

Now, the focus shifts to the World Cup warm-up games&nbsp;which begin on Friday (September 29) before the main draw of the event kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. India and Australia will lock horns with each other in their respective openers on October 08 in Chennai.&nbsp;

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After an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs versus Australia, India entered the third and final match in Rajkot with an aim to inflict a clean sweep on Wednesday (September 27).

After an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs versus Australia, India entered the third and final match in Rajkot with an aim to inflict a clean sweep on Wednesday (September 27). However, Rohit Sharma-led India conceded the game by 66 runs in what was both the sides' last international outing before the CWC 2023 edition, which starts on October 05. Being asked to bowl, India conceded 352 for 5 as Australia rode on Mitchell Marsh's 96, Steve Smith's 74, Marnus Labuschagne's 72 and David Warner's 56. In reply, India started off on a positive note with fifties from Rohit (81) and Virat Kohli (56) before losing their way to get all-out for 286 in 49.4 overs. After the game, India's head coach Rahul Dravid summed up India's CWC '23 preparations and feels 'really happy' with how things have been for the home side heading into the marquee event. "Jasprit got a couple of games, and bowled his quota of 10 overs. Siraj suffered from a bug but got back and was able to bowl today. It was good to see how Ashwin bowled in the first two games. KL and his keeping through fifty overs, returning after 6 months, has been great. Shreyas has got some good knocks in the last couple of games. Really happy with how things are going and hopefully we can keep the momentum going into the World Cup." Also read: Ind vs Aus: Jasprit Bumrah ends with his second-most expensive spell in Rajkot ODI Dravid further stated, "There are always areas you want to improve on, and we have ticked a lot of boxes. It's nice to see that the guys who have been out with injury, been away from a while, from our perspective, they've been able to get some good cricket, been able to spend time in the middle, get some runs, take some wickets, but there are always little things that you can improve. "It's going to be a long, tough tournament. We're constantly looking to improve as a team, even when we have results going our way," he added. Now, the focus shifts to the World Cup warm-up games which begin on Friday (September 29) before the main draw of the event kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. India and Australia will lock horns with each other in their respective openers on October 08 in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Aus: Rahul Dravid 'really happy' with Team India's CWC'23 preparations despite 3rd ODI loss

Shubman Gill has been in terrific form in 2023, especially in the ODI format. The right-hander has already slammed as many as five centuries in the 50-over format and will be entering the forthcoming ODI World Cup as the No. 1 ranked Indian batter (second overall, behind Pakistan's Babar Azam). Ahead of the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27), Gill spoke at length about Indian captain Rohit Sharma and mentioned the best quality of Hitman as a player and captain.

In an interview with Jio Cinema, Shubman hailed the 36-year-old Indian captain Rohit and stated, "He gives a lot of freedom to players to express themselves. He tells the coaches as well to let the players make their own decisions on the field and that the player should be the best judge, and that is his best quality as a player and captain."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-made-the-cut-sunil-gavaskar-backs-r-ashwin-in-indias-cwc-23-squad-with-axar-patel-unfit-640179">‘He has made the cut’: Sunil Gavaskar backs R Ashwin in India's CWC '23 squad with Axar Patel unfit</a>

Talking about Gill, the 24-year-old has already amassed over 1,200 ODI runs in 2023 and averages a solid&nbsp;71. On his own form, Gill said, "Yes, this year has been great for me. The preparation for the World Cup has been good. We have gotten good momentum from the Asia Cup as well. I think peaking at the right time is crucial ahead of a big tournament with so many matches."

Gill has been rested for the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Rajkot. The opener will now shift his focus on India's two upcoming CWC 2023 warm-up games, on September 30 and October 03, before they kick off their World Cup campaign versus Australia on October 08 in Chennai. The 50-over showpiece event kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

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Shubman Gill has been in terrific form in 2023, especially in the ODI format. The right-hander has already slammed as many as five centuries in the 50-over format and will be entering the forthcoming ODI World Cup as the No.

Shubman Gill has been in terrific form in 2023, especially in the ODI format. The right-hander has already slammed as many as five centuries in the 50-over format and will be entering the forthcoming ODI World Cup as the No. 1 ranked Indian batter (second overall, behind Pakistan's Babar Azam). Ahead of the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27), Gill spoke at length about Indian captain Rohit Sharma and mentioned the best quality of Hitman as a player and captain. In an interview with Jio Cinema, Shubman hailed the 36-year-old Indian captain Rohit and stated, "He gives a lot of freedom to players to express themselves. He tells the coaches as well to let the players make their own decisions on the field and that the player should be the best judge, and that is his best quality as a player and captain." Also read: ‘He has made the cut’: Sunil Gavaskar backs R Ashwin in India's CWC '23 squad with Axar Patel unfit Talking about Gill, the 24-year-old has already amassed over 1,200 ODI runs in 2023 and averages a solid 71. On his own form, Gill said, "Yes, this year has been great for me. The preparation for the World Cup has been good. We have gotten good momentum from the Asia Cup as well. I think peaking at the right time is crucial ahead of a big tournament with so many matches." Gill has been rested for the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Rajkot. The opener will now shift his focus on India's two upcoming CWC 2023 warm-up games, on September 30 and October 03, before they kick off their World Cup campaign versus Australia on October 08 in Chennai. The 50-over showpiece event kicks off on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Aus: Team India star Shubman Gill mentions Rohit Sharma's best quality as player and captain

During the Asia Cup 2023 edition, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull made a big claim about&nbsp;Team India. Doull&nbsp;reckoned that India's cricket is too statistics-driven and, hence, it becomes a reason for their downfall in big ICC matches. In addition, he pointed out that the reason for India's failures is that they don't resort to a fearless brand of cricket, which would mean compromising on stats.&nbsp;

"Fearless cricket is there issue," Simon Doull told Sky Sports. "They don’t play fearless cricket enough. They play statistics-driven cricket and they are too worried about their stats too often. And to me, that is the one area I am concerned about their batting side," he added.

Now, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has responded to Doull's statement and made a big claim. "New Zealand are coming to India. They will get to know if India play attacking cricket or not. We will thrash them. They got lucky in 2019 with MS Dhoni getting run out due to a direct hit. What did you do after playing the final? They made a team like England win the World Cup, who hadn't won a 50-over World Cup until then. New Zealand are never going to win. Yes, they might win in the future, but it will be embarrassing for them this time. If you get a chance address the media, please think before you speak. If you are ready to give, you should be able to take it also." Sreesanth told&nbsp;Sportskeeda.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-is-r-ashwin-a-backup-for-cwc-23-rohit-sharma-spills-the-beans-before-3rd-odi-640093">India vs Australia: Is R Ashwin a backup for CWC '23? Rohit Sharma spills the beans before 3rd ODI</a>

Sreesanth added, "I just want to tell Simon Doull that Indians are going to have a blast against New Zealand. New Zealand are going to learn a lot against India. Yes, there have been certain matches where they have done well against us, especially in ICC events. But those times have gone now. If any of these cricketers get to know what you said, and if Virat is made aware of it, it will be a lot of fun to watch that match."

At present, India are busy with their three-match home ODIs versus Australia with the third and final tie currently being held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The home side&nbsp;already have the series in the pocket with an unassailable 2-0 lead. On the other hand, a second-stringed New Zealand&nbsp;beat Bangladesh 2-0, on Tuesday (September 26),&nbsp;in the three ODIs in the Bangla Tigers' den.

New Zealand will face defending champions England in the CWC 2023 opener on October 05 in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, India will lock horns with Australia in their respective openers on October 08 in Chennai. Both India and New Zealand will square off in match 21 in Dharamshala.

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During the Asia Cup 2023 edition, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull made a big claim about Team India. Doull reckoned that India's cricket is too statistics-driven and, hence, it becomes a reason for their downfall in big ICC matches.

During the Asia Cup 2023 edition, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull made a big claim about Team India. Doull reckoned that India's cricket is too statistics-driven and, hence, it becomes a reason for their downfall in big ICC matches. In addition, he pointed out that the reason for India's failures is that they don't resort to a fearless brand of cricket, which would mean compromising on stats. "Fearless cricket is there issue," Simon Doull told Sky Sports. "They don’t play fearless cricket enough. They play statistics-driven cricket and they are too worried about their stats too often. And to me, that is the one area I am concerned about their batting side," he added. Now, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has responded to Doull's statement and made a big claim. "New Zealand are coming to India. They will get to know if India play attacking cricket or not. We will thrash them. They got lucky in 2019 with MS Dhoni getting run out due to a direct hit. What did you do after playing the final? They made a team like England win the World Cup, who hadn't won a 50-over World Cup until then. New Zealand are never going to win. Yes, they might win in the future, but it will be embarrassing for them this time. If you get a chance address the media, please think before you speak. If you are ready to give, you should be able to take it also." Sreesanth told Sportskeeda. Also read: India vs Australia: Is R Ashwin a backup for CWC '23? Rohit Sharma spills the beans before 3rd ODI Sreesanth added, "I just want to tell Simon Doull that Indians are going to have a blast against New Zealand. New Zealand are going to learn a lot against India. Yes, there have been certain matches where they have done well against us, especially in ICC events. But those times have gone now. If any of these cricketers get to know what you said, and if Virat is made aware of it, it will be a lot of fun to watch that match." At present, India are busy with their three-match home ODIs versus Australia with the third and final tie currently being held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The home side already have the series in the pocket with an unassailable 2-0 lead. On the other hand, a second-stringed New Zealand beat Bangladesh 2-0, on Tuesday (September 26), in the three ODIs in the Bangla Tigers' den. New Zealand will face defending champions England in the CWC 2023 opener on October 05 in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, India will lock horns with Australia in their respective openers on October 08 in Chennai. Both India and New Zealand will square off in match 21 in Dharamshala. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'If Kohli or any...': Sreesanth slams Doull for stat jibe, says India will 'have a blast' vs NZ in CWC '23

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