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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>India beat Pakistan by four wickets on the last ball of the Super 12 contest at the T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 23). Chasing a competitive 160, India was struggling at 31 for 4 before a solid 113-run fifth-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (82 not out) and all-rounder Hardik Pandya (40) revived the run-chase and took their side to a memorable win.</p>

<p>The last over started with India needing 16 off the last six balls. While Hardik perished off the first ball, there was a lot of drama that followed suit. A waist-high delivery, which went for a six, was followed by a no-ball and a free-hit whereas another wicket fell before R Ashwin struck a boundary on the last delivery to get India past the finish line.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rahul-dravid-hugs-virat-kohli-after-india-beat-pakistan-in-a-humdinger-at-mcg-watch-527882">T20 WC: Rahul Dravid hugs Virat Kohli after India beat Pakistan in a humdinger at MCG - watch</a></strong></p>

<p>After the last-over drama, head coach Rahul Dravid couldn't control his emotions and broke into animated celebrations after India pulled off a heist over Pakistan. <strong>Here's the viral video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A packed MCG chanting for Virat Kohli 🏟<br />
<br />
Raw vision: Behind the scenes of India’s sensational win 📹<br />
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Goosebumps. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/MNjmOLKO7r">pic.twitter.com/MNjmOLKO7r</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1584231304333119489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit Sharma said, "Those two guys (Kohli and Pandya) are experienced. Staying calm and taking the game deep was very critical. Good for our confidence. Always crucial to get off the mark like this. We were in no position to win this. The way we won that's more pleasing for us. Hats off to Virat for the way he batted, has to be the best innings he has played for India. I would like to thank everyone, it's wonderful to see. Their support for us is very, very crucial wherever we go."</p>


India beat Pakistan by four wickets on the last ball of the Super 12 contest at the T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 23). Chasing a competitive 160, India was struggling at 31 for 4 before a solid 113-run fifth-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (82 not out) and all-rounder Hardik Pandya (40) revived the run-chase and took their side to a memorable win.

India beat Pakistan by four wickets on the last ball of the Super 12 contest at the T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 23). Chasing a competitive 160, India was struggling at 31 for 4 before a solid 113-run fifth-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (82 not out) and all-rounder Hardik Pandya (40) revived the run-chase and took their side to a memorable win. The last over started with India needing 16 off the last six balls. While Hardik perished off the first ball, there was a lot of drama that followed suit. A waist-high delivery, which went for a six, was followed by a no-ball and a free-hit whereas another wicket fell before R Ashwin struck a boundary on the last delivery to get India past the finish line. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Rahul Dravid hugs Virat Kohli after India beat Pakistan in a humdinger at MCG - watch After the last-over drama, head coach Rahul Dravid couldn't control his emotions and broke into animated celebrations after India pulled off a heist over Pakistan. Here's the viral video: A packed MCG chanting for Virat Kohli 🏟 Raw vision: Behind the scenes of India’s sensational win 📹 Goosebumps. #T20WorldCup | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/MNjmOLKO7r — ICC (@ICC) October 23, 2022 × At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit Sharma said, "Those two guys (Kohli and Pandya) are experienced. Staying calm and taking the game deep was very critical. Good for our confidence. Always crucial to get off the mark like this. We were in no position to win this. The way we won that's more pleasing for us. Hats off to Virat for the way he batted, has to be the best innings he has played for India. I would like to thank everyone, it's wonderful to see. Their support for us is very, very crucial wherever we go."

T20 WC: UNBELIEVABLE! Head coach Rahul Dravid goes bonkers after India's epic win over Pakistan - Watch

<p>Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 took India to a four-wicket win over Pakistan in a riveting Super 12 clash at the&nbsp;T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Chasing 160, India were 31 for 4 and required 115 off the last 60 deliveries. However, Kohli's top inning (laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes) along with some help from Hardik Pandya (40&nbsp;off 37 balls) took Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. past the finish line on the last ball of the contest.</p>

<p>After opting to bowl first, at the MCG, Melbourne, India rode on Arshdeep Singh and Hardik's three-fers to restrict the Babar Azam-led Men in Green for 159-8 before a Kohli special sent the plethora of Indian fans, at the venue, into a frenzy. Ahead of the match, Kohli was seen giving a pep talk in Team India's huddle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the post-match press conference, captain Rohit spilled the beans on what Kohli told in the huddle.&nbsp;"Pep-talk? Yeah no, I mean, it was just about the occasion. Obviously, some of the (India) guys have not played in Australia and some of the guys were playing for the first time in the World Cup and seeing 90,000 people (at the Melbourne Cricket Ground). It is not going to be easy," Rohit said after the match.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-have-taken-a-bullet-for-you-but-not-have-hardik-pandya-tells-virat-kohli-after-duos-mcg-heroics-527920">'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics</a></strong></p>

<p>"And that is what he said. Just we need to hold ourselves and we need to focus on what we need to do, because we are here to do a job. Obviously, there will be a lot of support on the ground for us. So it was just focus on what we need to do, and our full focus has to be (on) what we need to get out of this game," Rohit added.</p>

<p>Rohit-led India have now opened its account in the T20 WC, in Australia, and will now square off with the Netherlands on October 27 (Thursday) at the SCG, Sydney.</p>


Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 took India to a four-wicket win over Pakistan in a riveting Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Chasing 160, India were 31 for 4 and required 115 off the last 60 deliveries.

Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 took India to a four-wicket win over Pakistan in a riveting Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Chasing 160, India were 31 for 4 and required 115 off the last 60 deliveries. However, Kohli's top inning (laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes) along with some help from Hardik Pandya (40 off 37 balls) took Rohit Sharma & Co. past the finish line on the last ball of the contest. After opting to bowl first, at the MCG, Melbourne, India rode on Arshdeep Singh and Hardik's three-fers to restrict the Babar Azam-led Men in Green for 159-8 before a Kohli special sent the plethora of Indian fans, at the venue, into a frenzy. Ahead of the match, Kohli was seen giving a pep talk in Team India's huddle. In the post-match press conference, captain Rohit spilled the beans on what Kohli told in the huddle. "Pep-talk? Yeah no, I mean, it was just about the occasion. Obviously, some of the (India) guys have not played in Australia and some of the guys were playing for the first time in the World Cup and seeing 90,000 people (at the Melbourne Cricket Ground). It is not going to be easy," Rohit said after the match. ALSO READ | 'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics "And that is what he said. Just we need to hold ourselves and we need to focus on what we need to do, because we are here to do a job. Obviously, there will be a lot of support on the ground for us. So it was just focus on what we need to do, and our full focus has to be (on) what we need to get out of this game," Rohit added. Rohit-led India have now opened its account in the T20 WC, in Australia, and will now square off with the Netherlands on October 27 (Thursday) at the SCG, Sydney.

'He told us to...' - Rohit Sharma reveals Virat Kohli's pep talk ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash

<p>Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). In what was both the Asian giants' Super 12 opening fixtures, the Rohit Sharma-led India restricted Pakistan to 159-8, after opting to bowl first. In reply, the one-time winners&nbsp;rode on Kohli's 82* and Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40 to take India home&nbsp;after they were reeling at 31 for 4 at one stage.</p>

<p>Kohli's knock was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 154.72. He rotated the strike with Hardik, who was the aggressor of the two at the beginning of their 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down, the 33-year-old Kohli upped the ante with some breathtaking shots and took India home in a dramatic last-over finish in front of a jam-packed stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 WC final win over Pakistan -- lifted Kohli as the ex-captain joined him and presenter Jatin Sapru for an interview on Star Sports. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkFq5hQgLgI/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Irfan Pathan (@irfanpathan_official)</a></p>
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<p>Post R Ashwin hitting the winning runs for India, captain Rohit Sharma and others had also stormed into the middle to laud Kohli. Even Hitman had lifted his predecessor for his unbelievable and memorable knock under pressure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-have-taken-a-bullet-for-you-but-not-have-hardik-pandya-tells-virat-kohli-after-duos-mcg-heroics-527920">'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Kohli said, "Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support."</p>


Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23).

Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). In what was both the Asian giants' Super 12 opening fixtures, the Rohit Sharma-led India restricted Pakistan to 159-8, after opting to bowl first. In reply, the one-time winners rode on Kohli's 82* and Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40 to take India home after they were reeling at 31 for 4 at one stage. Kohli's knock was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 154.72. He rotated the strike with Hardik, who was the aggressor of the two at the beginning of their 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down, the 33-year-old Kohli upped the ante with some breathtaking shots and took India home in a dramatic last-over finish in front of a jam-packed stadium. After the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 WC final win over Pakistan -- lifted Kohli as the ex-captain joined him and presenter Jatin Sapru for an interview on Star Sports. Here's the video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Irfan Pathan (@irfanpathan_official) × Post R Ashwin hitting the winning runs for India, captain Rohit Sharma and others had also stormed into the middle to laud Kohli. Even Hitman had lifted his predecessor for his unbelievable and memorable knock under pressure. ALSO READ | 'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Kohli said, "Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support."

Watch: After Rohit Sharma, Irfan Pathan lifts Virat Kohli following his MCG heroics vs Pakistan

<p>India were tottering at 31 for 4, in pursuit of 160, in their T20 World Cup opener versus Pakistan at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue restricted Pakistan to 159-8 but found them way behind at the halfway mark, with 115 to get off 60 balls.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Virat Kohli was joined by all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who instilled a lot of belief in their 113-run fifth-wicket partnership and played the aggressor's role. While Hardik did slow down a bit towards the end overs, Kohli took the mantle and pressed the accelerator with his timely and unbelievable strokes, taking on Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, etc., to take India past the finish line in a thrilling last-over run-chase.</p>

<p>Hardik was dismissed for 40 (37) but Kohli kept his cool and ended the run-chase for India, with R Ashwin hitting the winning shot on the final ball of the contest. After the riveting encounter, at the MCG, Melbourne, Kohli and Hardik got together and relived their match-winning stand.</p>

<p>"I would have taken a bullet for you at that point of time, but I would not have let you get out. My goal was simple, whatever I can do to make your life easier, I'll do it. You have done it so many times and no one is better at handling pressure than you," said Hardik in a video posted by BCCI.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Of special knocks, game-changing sixes &amp; thrilling victory at the MCG! 👌 💪<br />
<br />
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹: Men of the moment - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> - chat after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> beat Pakistan in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>. 👏 👏 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a><br />
<br />
Full interview 🎥 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a><a href="https://t.co/3QKftWa7dk">https://t.co/3QKftWa7dk</a> <a href="https://t.co/sK7TyLFcSI">pic.twitter.com/sK7TyLFcSI</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1584408357972025347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-i-was-12-of-21-virat-kohli-thought-he-was-messing-the-game-up-during-mcg-blitz-vs-pakistan-527906">'When I was 12 of 21...' - Virat Kohli thought he was 'messing the game up' during MCG blitz vs Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Hardik also lauded King Kohli for his two amazing hits in the penultimate over, off Rauf, as he brought down the equation from 28 off 8 balls to 16 needed off the final over. In this regard, he&nbsp;said, "Those two shots played by Virat Kohli, just because I know how important those two shots were, if you had missed even shot, still they were running ahead with the game. I have hit a lot of sixes, but those two sixes were really really special. What it meant for both of us, we actually were so pumped. Those two shots, I told him that I have played so much cricket but I do not think anyone could have played those two shots except Mr. Kohli."</p>

<p>India will now meet the Netherlands, who lost to Bangladesh by nine runs in their Super 12 opener on Monday (October 24), on Thursday (October 27) at the SCG, Sydney.</p>


India were tottering at 31 for 4, in pursuit of 160, in their T20 World Cup opener versus Pakistan at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue restricted Pakistan to 159-8 but found them way behind at the halfway mark, with 115 to get off 60 balls.

India were tottering at 31 for 4, in pursuit of 160, in their T20 World Cup opener versus Pakistan at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue restricted Pakistan to 159-8 but found them way behind at the halfway mark, with 115 to get off 60 balls. Nonetheless, Virat Kohli was joined by all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who instilled a lot of belief in their 113-run fifth-wicket partnership and played the aggressor's role. While Hardik did slow down a bit towards the end overs, Kohli took the mantle and pressed the accelerator with his timely and unbelievable strokes, taking on Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, etc., to take India past the finish line in a thrilling last-over run-chase. Hardik was dismissed for 40 (37) but Kohli kept his cool and ended the run-chase for India, with R Ashwin hitting the winning shot on the final ball of the contest. After the riveting encounter, at the MCG, Melbourne, Kohli and Hardik got together and relived their match-winning stand. "I would have taken a bullet for you at that point of time, but I would not have let you get out. My goal was simple, whatever I can do to make your life easier, I'll do it. You have done it so many times and no one is better at handling pressure than you," said Hardik in a video posted by BCCI. Of special knocks, game-changing sixes & thrilling victory at the MCG! 👌 💪 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹: Men of the moment - @imVkohli & @hardikpandya7 - chat after #TeamIndia beat Pakistan in the #T20WorldCup. 👏 👏 - By @RajalArora Full interview 🎥 🔽 #INDvPAKhttps://t.co/3QKftWa7dk pic.twitter.com/sK7TyLFcSI — BCCI (@BCCI) October 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'When I was 12 of 21...' - Virat Kohli thought he was 'messing the game up' during MCG blitz vs Pakistan Hardik also lauded King Kohli for his two amazing hits in the penultimate over, off Rauf, as he brought down the equation from 28 off 8 balls to 16 needed off the final over. In this regard, he said, "Those two shots played by Virat Kohli, just because I know how important those two shots were, if you had missed even shot, still they were running ahead with the game. I have hit a lot of sixes, but those two sixes were really really special. What it meant for both of us, we actually were so pumped. Those two shots, I told him that I have played so much cricket but I do not think anyone could have played those two shots except Mr. Kohli." India will now meet the Netherlands, who lost to Bangladesh by nine runs in their Super 12 opener on Monday (October 24), on Thursday (October 27) at the SCG, Sydney.

'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics

<p>India is set to take on Pakistan in both sides' respective tournament openers at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. Both the Asian giants are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, also comprising the likes of Bangladesh, South Africa, Netherlands and Zimbabwe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Pakistan square off at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne on Sunday afternoon (October 23). There has been a lot of hype on the marquee encounter and the match is expected to go down to the wire, albiet with some rain interruptions on the cards. Ahead of the face-off, Indian captain Rohit Sharma is set to surpass former skipper MS Dhoni to achieve an elite T20 WC record under his belt. Rohit will play his 34th game in the T20 WC and move past Dhoni, who made 33 appearances for India in the mega event.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20-wc-2022-predicting-rohit-sharma-cos-likely-playing-xi-for-high-voltage-clash-527699">India vs Pakistan, T20 WC 2022: Predicting Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s likely playing XI for high-voltage clash</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here are the Indians with most T20 World Cup appearances:</strong></p>

<section>
<p>MS Dhoni - 33</p>

<p><strong>Rohit Sharma - 33*</strong></p>

<p>Yuvraj Singh - 31</p>

<p>Suresh Raina - 26</p>

<p>Rohit is the only Indian to have represented the national side in all the T20 WC editions so far. In the overall list of most T20 WC appearances, Rohit will be tied with Shahid Afridi but overtake him to&nbsp;occupy&nbsp;the second spot after Tilakaratne Dilshan (35 appearances).</p>

<p><strong>Here are the list of players with the most appearances in the T20 World Cup:</strong></p>

<p>Tilakaratne Dilshan - 35</p>

<p>Shahid Afridi- 34</p>

<p><strong>Rohit Sharma - 33</strong></p>

<p>MS Dhoni- 33</p>

<p>Mahela Jayawardene- 31</p>

<p>On the eve of the Indo-Pak contest, Rohit spoke about India's nine-year-ICC-title-drought and&nbsp;said, "Yes, it is a challenge to not win an ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013 [Champions Trophy]. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there are a lot of expectations, we are certainly little disappointed with that. This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead."</p>
</section>


India is set to take on Pakistan in both sides' respective tournament openers at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. Both the Asian giants are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, also comprising the likes of Bangladesh, South Africa, Netherlands and Zimbabwe.

India is set to take on Pakistan in both sides' respective tournament openers at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition in Australia. Both the Asian giants are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, also comprising the likes of Bangladesh, South Africa, Netherlands and Zimbabwe. India and Pakistan square off at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne on Sunday afternoon (October 23). There has been a lot of hype on the marquee encounter and the match is expected to go down to the wire, albiet with some rain interruptions on the cards. Ahead of the face-off, Indian captain Rohit Sharma is set to surpass former skipper MS Dhoni to achieve an elite T20 WC record under his belt. Rohit will play his 34th game in the T20 WC and move past Dhoni, who made 33 appearances for India in the mega event. ALSO READ | India vs Pakistan, T20 WC 2022: Predicting Rohit Sharma & Co.'s likely playing XI for high-voltage clash Here are the Indians with most T20 World Cup appearances: MS Dhoni - 33 Rohit Sharma - 33* Yuvraj Singh - 31 Suresh Raina - 26 Rohit is the only Indian to have represented the national side in all the T20 WC editions so far. In the overall list of most T20 WC appearances, Rohit will be tied with Shahid Afridi but overtake him to occupy the second spot after Tilakaratne Dilshan (35 appearances). Here are the list of players with the most appearances in the T20 World Cup: Tilakaratne Dilshan - 35 Shahid Afridi- 34 Rohit Sharma - 33 MS Dhoni- 33 Mahela Jayawardene- 31 On the eve of the Indo-Pak contest, Rohit spoke about India's nine-year-ICC-title-drought and said, "Yes, it is a challenge to not win an ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013 [Champions Trophy]. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there are a lot of expectations, we are certainly little disappointed with that. This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead."

T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash

<p>There isn't much time before the India-Pakistna T20 World Cup 2022 clash gets underway. Ahead of the big-ticket encounter, there has been a lot of talk regarding the weather conditions in Melbourne. One can expect rain showers to interrupt the match but it shouldn't be a rain-abandoned encounter. A rain-curtailed contest can be on cards for the high-voltage clash at the MCG, Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cricket lovers from both sides are also eager to know the pitch conditions for the marquee encounter. The last time both sides met each other in the T20 WC, Babar Azam-led Pakistan made early inroads as Shaheen Afridi got enough assistance in the early overs and bowled the right lengths to rattle India's top order. After India managed to post 151-7, Pakistan chased down the score with ten wickets in hand, courtesy of openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries.</p>

<p><strong>Here's the expected pitch conditions at the MCG, Melbourne for the T20 WC marquee clash</strong></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-india-vs-pakistan-live-cricket-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-epic-face-off-527678"><strong>T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off?</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the match, MCG pitch curator Michael Salvatore has said that the wicket will remain consistent throughout the course of the game. "T20 wickets are usually really consistent for the whole match. So it should make for a really good game. We have brought it from our wicket nursery which is just outside the ground. It's literally 200 meters outside the ground so we can move and monitor and maintain the wickets all year around. And the wickets were installed three weeks ago," Salvatore said during an interaction with A Sports.</p>

<p>"So we have drop-in wickets here at the MCG. So for the cricket season we bring the wickets in and I sit on some sand and bed in nicely. And then once cricket finishes, we have got the football stadium. We have the ability to take them out and put them up in our special week anniversary where we can look after and maintain them," he added.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, along with Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Netherlands.</p>


There isn't much time before the India-Pakistna T20 World Cup 2022 clash gets underway. Ahead of the big-ticket encounter, there has been a lot of talk regarding the weather conditions in Melbourne.

There isn't much time before the India-Pakistna T20 World Cup 2022 clash gets underway. Ahead of the big-ticket encounter, there has been a lot of talk regarding the weather conditions in Melbourne. One can expect rain showers to interrupt the match but it shouldn't be a rain-abandoned encounter. A rain-curtailed contest can be on cards for the high-voltage clash at the MCG, Melbourne. The cricket lovers from both sides are also eager to know the pitch conditions for the marquee encounter. The last time both sides met each other in the T20 WC, Babar Azam-led Pakistan made early inroads as Shaheen Afridi got enough assistance in the early overs and bowled the right lengths to rattle India's top order. After India managed to post 151-7, Pakistan chased down the score with ten wickets in hand, courtesy of openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries. Here's the expected pitch conditions at the MCG, Melbourne for the T20 WC marquee clash ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off? Ahead of the match, MCG pitch curator Michael Salvatore has said that the wicket will remain consistent throughout the course of the game. "T20 wickets are usually really consistent for the whole match. So it should make for a really good game. We have brought it from our wicket nursery which is just outside the ground. It's literally 200 meters outside the ground so we can move and monitor and maintain the wickets all year around. And the wickets were installed three weeks ago," Salvatore said during an interaction with A Sports. "So we have drop-in wickets here at the MCG. So for the cricket season we bring the wickets in and I sit on some sand and bed in nicely. And then once cricket finishes, we have got the football stadium. We have the ability to take them out and put them up in our special week anniversary where we can look after and maintain them," he added. India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, along with Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Netherlands.

'Should make for a...' - MCG pitch curator on nature of surface for India-Pakistan T20 WC clash

<p>The D-day has finally arrived. India and Pakistan are set to meet in the Super 12 round of the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne on Sunday afternoon (October 23). This will be the second clash of the day, with Ireland-Sri Lanka face-off at Hobart being the first encounter.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan do not meet in bilaterals ever since the strained political relations between both sides. Hence, both the sides now only square off during multi-nation or ICC events. Thus, the clash becomes even more special for cricket lovers from both countries. This year, India and Pakistan have already met twice, during the 2022 Asia Cup. Back then, both teams won and lost a game each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During their last T20 WC face-off, India lost their first-ever World Cup game to their arch-rivals Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Men in Green rode on Shaheen Afridi's 3/31 and unbeaten half-centuries from Babar-Md Rizwan to thrash India by ten wickets. Since then, India have revamped their T20I playing style and have enjoyed considerable success in the format in 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2022-india-vs-pakistan-match-prediction-will-rohit-co-avenge-their-2021-humiliation-at-the-mcg-527690"><strong>T20 WC 2022, India vs Pakistan match prediction: Will Rohit &amp; Co. avenge their 2021 humiliation at the MCG?</strong></a></p>

<p>Thus, it promises to be an enthralling encounter between both sides at the MCG. The weather condition is keenly being followed by cricket lovers across the globe ahead of the marquee face-off. While one cannot predict anything related to the weather, here's our prediction of India's XI for the Pakistan clash:</p>

<p><strong>Probable XI:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin/Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh</p>


The D-day has finally arrived. India and Pakistan are set to meet in the Super 12 round of the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne on Sunday afternoon (October 23).

The D-day has finally arrived. India and Pakistan are set to meet in the Super 12 round of the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne on Sunday afternoon (October 23). This will be the second clash of the day, with Ireland-Sri Lanka face-off at Hobart being the first encounter. India and Pakistan do not meet in bilaterals ever since the strained political relations between both sides. Hence, both the sides now only square off during multi-nation or ICC events. Thus, the clash becomes even more special for cricket lovers from both countries. This year, India and Pakistan have already met twice, during the 2022 Asia Cup. Back then, both teams won and lost a game each. During their last T20 WC face-off, India lost their first-ever World Cup game to their arch-rivals Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Men in Green rode on Shaheen Afridi's 3/31 and unbeaten half-centuries from Babar-Md Rizwan to thrash India by ten wickets. Since then, India have revamped their T20I playing style and have enjoyed considerable success in the format in 2022. ALSO READ | T20 WC 2022, India vs Pakistan match prediction: Will Rohit & Co. avenge their 2021 humiliation at the MCG? Thus, it promises to be an enthralling encounter between both sides at the MCG. The weather condition is keenly being followed by cricket lovers across the globe ahead of the marquee face-off. While one cannot predict anything related to the weather, here's our prediction of India's XI for the Pakistan clash: Probable XI: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin/Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh

India vs Pakistan, T20 WC 2022: Predicting Rohit Sharma & Co.'s likely playing XI for high-voltage clash

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


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

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

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

<p>Virat Kohli played one of his best knocks in an Indian shirt as the Men in Blue defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling encounter in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. Kohli slammed a stunning unbeaten 82 off 53 deliveries to help India chase down the target of 160 runs and pull off a miraculous win at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).</p>

<p>An on-song Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as he bailed India out of trouble in the run-chase and kept them in the game till the final over before taking them over the line in what was an epic finish to the much-awaited clash. While Kohli admitted it was his best knock so far in his career, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma echoed similar sentiments after India's famous win.</p>

<p>India were reeling at 31/4 at one stage in the run-chase when Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship. The duo added 113 runs for the fifth wicket before Hardik was dismissed on the first ball off the final over with India requiring 16 runs off five balls.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-the-king-twitter-hails-virat-kohli-after-his-chasing-masterclass-against-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-527789">'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>Kohli then went on to pull off a heist as he scored 8 off the 16 required and six extra runs in the final over to get over the line after a dramatic finish. Rohit hailed Kohli in the post-match presentation for taking the game deep and rated his 82-run-knock as the best innings he has played for India.</p>

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<p>"Those two guys (Kohli and Pandya) are experienced. Staying calm and taking the game deep was very critical. Good for our confidence. Always crucial to get off the mark like this. We were in no position to win this. The way we won that's more pleasing for us. Hats off to Virat for the way he batted, has to be the best innings he has played for India," Rohit said during the post-match presentation ceremony.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-it-was-meant-to-be-virat-kohli-after-india-pull-off-a-memorable-victory-over-pakistan-527780">'It was meant to be,' Virat Kohli after India pull off a memorable victory over Pakistan</a></p>

<p>When asked to describe his emotions after the thrilling win, Rohit said he had run out of words after witnessing Kohli pull off a masterclass from the dressing room. The Indian captain said the partnership between Kohli and Pandya was the crucial game-changer for India as they always knew they needed to bat out of their skin to chase down the tricky target.</p>

<p>"I was in the dressing room. I don't have any words left. You got to expect something like this in a game like this. We wanted to stay in the game for as long as possible. That crucial partnership was the game-changing moment for us," said Rohit.</p>

<p>After kicking off their campaign with a brilliant victory, India will look to carry on the winning momentum when they take on Netherlands in their next game on Thursday (October 27).</p>


Virat Kohli played one of his best knocks in an Indian shirt as the Men in Blue defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling encounter in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday.

Virat Kohli played one of his best knocks in an Indian shirt as the Men in Blue defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling encounter in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. Kohli slammed a stunning unbeaten 82 off 53 deliveries to help India chase down the target of 160 runs and pull off a miraculous win at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). An on-song Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as he bailed India out of trouble in the run-chase and kept them in the game till the final over before taking them over the line in what was an epic finish to the much-awaited clash. While Kohli admitted it was his best knock so far in his career, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma echoed similar sentiments after India's famous win. India were reeling at 31/4 at one stage in the run-chase when Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship. The duo added 113 runs for the fifth wicket before Hardik was dismissed on the first ball off the final over with India requiring 16 runs off five balls. Also Read: 'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup Kohli then went on to pull off a heist as he scored 8 off the 16 required and six extra runs in the final over to get over the line after a dramatic finish. Rohit hailed Kohli in the post-match presentation for taking the game deep and rated his 82-run-knock as the best innings he has played for India. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × "Those two guys (Kohli and Pandya) are experienced. Staying calm and taking the game deep was very critical. Good for our confidence. Always crucial to get off the mark like this. We were in no position to win this. The way we won that's more pleasing for us. Hats off to Virat for the way he batted, has to be the best innings he has played for India," Rohit said during the post-match presentation ceremony. Also Read: 'It was meant to be,' Virat Kohli after India pull off a memorable victory over Pakistan When asked to describe his emotions after the thrilling win, Rohit said he had run out of words after witnessing Kohli pull off a masterclass from the dressing room. The Indian captain said the partnership between Kohli and Pandya was the crucial game-changer for India as they always knew they needed to bat out of their skin to chase down the tricky target. "I was in the dressing room. I don't have any words left. You got to expect something like this in a game like this. We wanted to stay in the game for as long as possible. That crucial partnership was the game-changing moment for us," said Rohit. After kicking off their campaign with a brilliant victory, India will look to carry on the winning momentum when they take on Netherlands in their next game on Thursday (October 27).

His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan

<p>Any contest between India and Pakistan is never short of controversies. The Super-12 game between the two Asian cricketing giants wasn't going to be devoid of it either. After getting a dodgy start as Arshdeep and Bhuvneshwar ran riot with the swinging cherry, Pakistan were beginning to claw their way back into the contest.</p>

<p>However, Shami and Hardik took three wickets amongst themselves in space of eight balls to peg the Pakistan innings back. Skipper Rohit Sharma seized the opportunity and sought to squeeze in an over of the spinner.</p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin was summoned into the attack for the 15th over.&nbsp;Shan Masood, facing the third ball of the over ballooned one straight up in the air. In ordinary circumstances, that would have been a 'bread-and-butter' catch for the extra cover fielder or the cover point fielder.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-babar-azam-dismissed-on-golden-duck-as-arshdeep-has-redemption-527728"><strong>WATCH: Babar Azam dismissed on golden duck as Arshdeep has redemption</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the ball skied up and hit the spider cam that was fixed right over the batter's head. A momentary confusion ensued all across the park as commentators also thought that it had landed in the no-man's land. A moment later, another remarked that the Hardik Pandya at cover region had seemingly missed the ball in the windy Melbourne night sky.</p>

<p>However, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik figured that the ball had hit the spider cam and changed its trajectory. Umpire Rod Tucker was egged by Rohit to call the ball dead.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-should-put-this-topic-to-rest-says-hardik-pandya-ahead-of-the-india-pak-clash-527719"><strong>Read more: 'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of India-Pak WC clash</strong></a></p>

<p>After confirmation from the third umpire, Tucker conveyed that it was indeed a dead ball. However, more than the no-ball, the Indians were more dejected about having missed on a wicket opportunity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the end, Masood ended up with 52 not out after being granted a reprieve on 31, allowing Pakistan to reach a respectable total of 159/8.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spider cam adds nothing to the game and just cost India a wicket. Farcical in a World Cup. Needs binning off promptly <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@icc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indvspakmatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indvspakmatch</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/IMMTXJcfsl">pic.twitter.com/IMMTXJcfsl</a></p>
— Edd Oliver (@EddOliver1) <a href="https://twitter.com/EddOliver1/status/1584114957846982657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The netizens weren't too impressed either as some called for spider cam to be kept out of the game as on multiple occasions it had interfered in the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As if there wasn't enough drama in this game already...an outside edge goes up in the air and hits Spidercam. My goodness...this game has had everything and we're not even half way through," said one netizen.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another added, "Saying this &nbsp;for the 10,000th time - the spidercam is the most unnecessary equipment on a cricket field. This is the 5th time I've seen it ruin a moment of play - and all for some dumb top shot of the cricket?!? Need Doctor Octopus to shoot it down."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As if there wasn't enough drama in this game already...an outside edge goes up in the air and hits Spidercam. My goodness...this game has had everything and we're not even half way through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a></p>
— Aatif Nawaz (@AatifNawaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/AatifNawaz/status/1584112645346426880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saying this for the 10,000th time - the spidercam is the most unnecessary equipment on a cricket field.<br />
<br />
This is the 5th time I've seen it ruin a moment of play - and all for some dumb top shot of the cricket?!?<br />
<br />
Need Doctor Octopus to shoot it down.</p>
— Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) <a href="https://twitter.com/hankypanty/status/1584113650306277376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not the first time that's happened. Last time I recall was a Test at the SCG and spidercam sheepishly retreated to the naughty corner for several overs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a></p>
— Melinda Farrell (@melindafarrell) <a href="https://twitter.com/melindafarrell/status/1584112796567949312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-not-the-destination-it-is-just-a-step-towards-it-for-india-gautam-gambhir-ahead-of-marquee-clash-527721"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Beating Pakistan not the goal for India, it's just a step towards up: Gambhir</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Any contest between India and Pakistan is never short of controversies. The Super-12 game between the two Asian cricketing giants wasn't going to be devoid of it either.

Any contest between India and Pakistan is never short of controversies. The Super-12 game between the two Asian cricketing giants wasn't going to be devoid of it either. After getting a dodgy start as Arshdeep and Bhuvneshwar ran riot with the swinging cherry, Pakistan were beginning to claw their way back into the contest. However, Shami and Hardik took three wickets amongst themselves in space of eight balls to peg the Pakistan innings back. Skipper Rohit Sharma seized the opportunity and sought to squeeze in an over of the spinner. Ravichandran Ashwin was summoned into the attack for the 15th over. Shan Masood, facing the third ball of the over ballooned one straight up in the air. In ordinary circumstances, that would have been a 'bread-and-butter' catch for the extra cover fielder or the cover point fielder. WATCH: Babar Azam dismissed on golden duck as Arshdeep has redemption However, the ball skied up and hit the spider cam that was fixed right over the batter's head. A momentary confusion ensued all across the park as commentators also thought that it had landed in the no-man's land. A moment later, another remarked that the Hardik Pandya at cover region had seemingly missed the ball in the windy Melbourne night sky. However, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik figured that the ball had hit the spider cam and changed its trajectory. Umpire Rod Tucker was egged by Rohit to call the ball dead. Read more: 'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of India-Pak WC clash After confirmation from the third umpire, Tucker conveyed that it was indeed a dead ball. However, more than the no-ball, the Indians were more dejected about having missed on a wicket opportunity. In the end, Masood ended up with 52 not out after being granted a reprieve on 31, allowing Pakistan to reach a respectable total of 159/8. Spider cam adds nothing to the game and just cost India a wicket. Farcical in a World Cup. Needs binning off promptly @icc #indvspakmatch #ICCT20WorldCup #ICCT20WorldCup2022 pic.twitter.com/IMMTXJcfsl — Edd Oliver (@EddOliver1) October 23, 2022 × The netizens weren't too impressed either as some called for spider cam to be kept out of the game as on multiple occasions it had interfered in the game. "As if there wasn't enough drama in this game already...an outside edge goes up in the air and hits Spidercam. My goodness...this game has had everything and we're not even half way through," said one netizen. Meanwhile, another added, "Saying this for the 10,000th time - the spidercam is the most unnecessary equipment on a cricket field. This is the 5th time I've seen it ruin a moment of play - and all for some dumb top shot of the cricket?!? Need Doctor Octopus to shoot it down." As if there wasn't enough drama in this game already...an outside edge goes up in the air and hits Spidercam. My goodness...this game has had everything and we're not even half way through #INDvPAK — Aatif Nawaz (@AatifNawaz) October 23, 2022 × Saying this for the 10,000th time - the spidercam is the most unnecessary equipment on a cricket field. This is the 5th time I've seen it ruin a moment of play - and all for some dumb top shot of the cricket?!? Need Doctor Octopus to shoot it down. — Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) October 23, 2022 × Not the first time that's happened. Last time I recall was a Test at the SCG and spidercam sheepishly retreated to the naughty corner for several overs. #T20WorldCup #INDvPAK — Melinda Farrell (@melindafarrell) October 23, 2022 × Read more: Beating Pakistan not the goal for India, it's just a step towards up: Gambhir WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Shoot down spider cam,' Indian fans fume as a wicket opportunity goes begging. WATCH

<p>India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest.</p>

<p>India have not won an ICC trophy in nine years now as their last triumph came under the legendary MS Dhoni at the Champions Trophy in 2013. India have since been part of two ODI and three T20I World Cups, however, they have failed to go the distance.</p>

<p>India came close to ending the drought in the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the ICC Test Championship last year but ended up faltering towards the end.&nbsp;Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who is gearing up to lead the team in his first-ever T20 World Cup, said there is disappointment among the players as India have not managed to win an ICC trophy in nine years.</p>

<p>However, the Hitman expressed confidence that the ongoing T20 World Cup gives India a chance to set the record straight.&nbsp;Speaking at the pre-match presser ahead of India's much-awaited clash against Pakistan on Sunday, Rohit said there is pressure in a big tournament but the Men in Blue would like to focus on one game at a time.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-final-list-of-all-super-12-teams-confirmed-as-ireland-zimbabwe-clinch-final-two-spots-527470">T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots</a></p>

<p>"Yes, it is a challenge to not win ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there is lot of expectations, we certainly little disappointed with that," said Rohit speaking about India's ICC trophy drought.</p>

<p>"This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead," he added.</p>

<p>Rohit, who took over from Virat Kohli as the captain of the Indian team in all three formats earlier this year, spoke about how he has worked on little things as a leader to give his players the confidence they require to go out and perform at the highest level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The most important thing was to give players freedom, giving them the security to do well in challenging situations. We focused on how to give players the security without worrying about results. These small things matter a lot, in this last one year, us not focusing on results, we wanted to focus on small things. We were thinking about how we can play fearlessly. We were talking about it in our dressing room," said the Indian skipper.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-picks-pakistan-star-to-finish-as-highest-run-getter-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527389">Virender Sehwag picks Pakistan star to finish as highest run-getter in T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>India were unbeaten in the bilateral T20I series under Rohit's captaincy since he took charge of the team. However, the team disappointed in the Asia Cup 2022 where they failed to make it to the final after losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Rohit will be hoping to inspire the team to go the distance in the T20 World Cup down under.</p>


India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest.

India will be aiming to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought when they begin their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022. India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the tournament at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne in what promises to be a cracker of a contest. India have not won an ICC trophy in nine years now as their last triumph came under the legendary MS Dhoni at the Champions Trophy in 2013. India have since been part of two ODI and three T20I World Cups, however, they have failed to go the distance. India came close to ending the drought in the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the ICC Test Championship last year but ended up faltering towards the end. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who is gearing up to lead the team in his first-ever T20 World Cup, said there is disappointment among the players as India have not managed to win an ICC trophy in nine years. However, the Hitman expressed confidence that the ongoing T20 World Cup gives India a chance to set the record straight. Speaking at the pre-match presser ahead of India's much-awaited clash against Pakistan on Sunday, Rohit said there is pressure in a big tournament but the Men in Blue would like to focus on one game at a time. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2022: Final list of all Super 12 teams confirmed as Ireland, Zimbabwe clinch final two spots "Yes, it is a challenge to not win ICC trophy for nine years, if I am not wrong. The last one we won was in 2013. It has been a challenge with the team like us, there is lot of expectations, we certainly little disappointed with that," said Rohit speaking about India's ICC trophy drought. "This tournament gives us that chance to change it and do well. We certainly know we have to play our best cricket to do well here. We need to take it one game at a time, and then go ahead," he added. Rohit, who took over from Virat Kohli as the captain of the Indian team in all three formats earlier this year, spoke about how he has worked on little things as a leader to give his players the confidence they require to go out and perform at the highest level. "The most important thing was to give players freedom, giving them the security to do well in challenging situations. We focused on how to give players the security without worrying about results. These small things matter a lot, in this last one year, us not focusing on results, we wanted to focus on small things. We were thinking about how we can play fearlessly. We were talking about it in our dressing room," said the Indian skipper. Also Read: Virender Sehwag picks Pakistan star to finish as highest run-getter in T20 World Cup 2022 India were unbeaten in the bilateral T20I series under Rohit's captaincy since he took charge of the team. However, the team disappointed in the Asia Cup 2022 where they failed to make it to the final after losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Rohit will be hoping to inspire the team to go the distance in the T20 World Cup down under.

Disappointed to have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years, T20 WC gives us a chance to change it: Rohit Sharma

<p>India is set to tour Bangladesh later this year. The forthcoming tour will start on December 04 where India will play three ODIs and two Tests. It is to be noted that this will be India's first tour of Bangladesh for a bilateral series since 2015. Since then, they have toured the Bangla Tigers but it was for the 2016 Asia Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday (October 20), it was revealed that India's tour of Bangladesh will comprise three 50-over matches and two Tests with the red-ball series starting on December 22.&nbsp;Speaking on the upcoming bilateral series, BCB President Nazmul Hassan told as per a report in Cricbuzz, "The Bangladesh-India matches in recent history have given us some epic contests and fans from both countries are eagerly waiting for another memorable series. I thank the Board of Control for Cricket in India for working closely with the BCB in confirming the schedule. We look forward to welcoming the Indian team to Bangladesh."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-they-do-not-win-this-time-sunil-gavaskar-rates-indias-chances-at-t20-wc-before-pakistan-clash-527051">&nbsp;'If they do not win this time...' - Sunil Gavaskar rates India's chances at T20 WC before Pakistan clash</a></strong></p>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p>Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, opined, "I extend my best wishes to the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the upcoming bilateral series featuring India. The India-Bangladesh contests generate tremendous interest among the fans thanks to the massive fan following the two teams enjoy. We know how passionate the fans in Bangladesh are and I am sure they will be treated to some exhilarating contests both in white-ball and red-ball cricket. With the crucial World Test Championship points at stake, the two Test matches are very important and both teams will go hard for the win."</p>

<p>India and Bangladesh are currently getting ready for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition's Super 12 round. Both the Asian teams are placed in Pool B, along with Pakistan, South Africa and will see two more teams join their group from the qualifiers. India and Bangla Tigers will lock horns on November 02 at the&nbsp;Adelaide Oval, Adelaide.</p>
</section>


India is set to tour Bangladesh later this year. The forthcoming tour will start on December 04 where India will play three ODIs and two Tests. It is to be noted that this will be India's first tour of Bangladesh for a bilateral series since 2015.

India is set to tour Bangladesh later this year. The forthcoming tour will start on December 04 where India will play three ODIs and two Tests. It is to be noted that this will be India's first tour of Bangladesh for a bilateral series since 2015. Since then, they have toured the Bangla Tigers but it was for the 2016 Asia Cup. On Thursday (October 20), it was revealed that India's tour of Bangladesh will comprise three 50-over matches and two Tests with the red-ball series starting on December 22. Speaking on the upcoming bilateral series, BCB President Nazmul Hassan told as per a report in Cricbuzz, "The Bangladesh-India matches in recent history have given us some epic contests and fans from both countries are eagerly waiting for another memorable series. I thank the Board of Control for Cricket in India for working closely with the BCB in confirming the schedule. We look forward to welcoming the Indian team to Bangladesh." ALSO READ | 'If they do not win this time...' - Sunil Gavaskar rates India's chances at T20 WC before Pakistan clash Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, opined, "I extend my best wishes to the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the upcoming bilateral series featuring India. The India-Bangladesh contests generate tremendous interest among the fans thanks to the massive fan following the two teams enjoy. We know how passionate the fans in Bangladesh are and I am sure they will be treated to some exhilarating contests both in white-ball and red-ball cricket. With the crucial World Test Championship points at stake, the two Test matches are very important and both teams will go hard for the win." India and Bangladesh are currently getting ready for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition's Super 12 round. Both the Asian teams are placed in Pool B, along with Pakistan, South Africa and will see two more teams join their group from the qualifiers. India and Bangla Tigers will lock horns on November 02 at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide.

India's tour of Bangladesh, featuring three ODIs and two Tests, to kick off on December 4

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India is set to kick off their campaign in the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23) as they face Pakistan in their tournament opener. In last year's edition, held in the UAE, Virat Kohli-led India were thrashed by Babar Azam's Pakistan by ten wickets in both sides' Super 12 openers and Men in Blue never recovered as they also lost to New Zealand before winning three games in a row, versus weaker sides, to bow out of the competition without making the semi-finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This time around, there are high hopes from India. Rohit-led India have done very well in T20Is in the calendar year and are entering the tournament as the No. 1 ranked side. Ahead of their face-off versus Pakistan, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar rated India's chances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"One thing for sure. If the Indian team does not win this T20 World Cup it won't be for lack of preparation. Not only have they gone to Australia almost three weeks before their first game of the tournament, they are also playing practice games against good sides that should get them ready for the tournament," Gavaskar opined in his column in the Mid-Day.</p>

<section>
<p>He further asserted, "The old saying, 'if you fail to prepare then prepare to fail' will not apply to this Indian team as, apart from these games in Australia, they also played six T20 matches at home and won four out of those to show that they are tuning in nicely for the big event."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-minister-anurag-thakur-gives-blunt-reply-after-pcb-threatens-to-withdraw-from-2023-odi-world-cup-527031"><strong>Sports minister Anurag Thakur gives blunt reply after PCB threatens to withdraw from 2023 ODI World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>While Gavaskar sounds confident of India's chances at the T20 WC 2022 edition, he also pointed out why they have faltered in previous ICC events. "India's performance in the white ball bilaterals has always been good, be it at home or overseas, but it's in the multilateral events that they have been stumbling. In the past it's been because they have come cold into the event," he added.</p>

<p>India are placed in Pool B in the main draw of the T20 WC, also featuring the Men in Green, Bangladesh, South Africa whereas two teams will join them from the qualifiers.</p>
</section>


Rohit Sharma-led India is set to kick off their campaign in the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23) as they face Pakistan in their tournament opener.

Rohit Sharma-led India is set to kick off their campaign in the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23) as they face Pakistan in their tournament opener. In last year's edition, held in the UAE, Virat Kohli-led India were thrashed by Babar Azam's Pakistan by ten wickets in both sides' Super 12 openers and Men in Blue never recovered as they also lost to New Zealand before winning three games in a row, versus weaker sides, to bow out of the competition without making the semi-finals. This time around, there are high hopes from India. Rohit-led India have done very well in T20Is in the calendar year and are entering the tournament as the No. 1 ranked side. Ahead of their face-off versus Pakistan, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar rated India's chances. "One thing for sure. If the Indian team does not win this T20 World Cup it won't be for lack of preparation. Not only have they gone to Australia almost three weeks before their first game of the tournament, they are also playing practice games against good sides that should get them ready for the tournament," Gavaskar opined in his column in the Mid-Day. He further asserted, "The old saying, 'if you fail to prepare then prepare to fail' will not apply to this Indian team as, apart from these games in Australia, they also played six T20 matches at home and won four out of those to show that they are tuning in nicely for the big event." ALSO READ | Sports minister Anurag Thakur gives blunt reply after PCB threatens to withdraw from 2023 ODI World Cup While Gavaskar sounds confident of India's chances at the T20 WC 2022 edition, he also pointed out why they have faltered in previous ICC events. "India's performance in the white ball bilaterals has always been good, be it at home or overseas, but it's in the multilateral events that they have been stumbling. In the past it's been because they have come cold into the event," he added. India are placed in Pool B in the main draw of the T20 WC, also featuring the Men in Green, Bangladesh, South Africa whereas two teams will join them from the qualifiers.

'If they do not win this time...' - Sunil Gavaskar rates India's chances at T20 WC before Pakistan clash

<p>Team India is set to commence their campaign in the Men's T20 World Cup with their opening fixture against Pakistan on Sunday (October 23) at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. After bowing out of the last year's edition, in the UAE, in the Super 12 round, India will look to start on a strong note. Ahead of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s opening game, former Indian captain Kapil Dev has expressed concerns on India's chances of entering the semi-finals of the marquee event in Australia.</p>

<p>Speaking to the press in Lucknow, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil pointed out, "What more do you want in the side other than having all-rounders who could win matches for a side not only in the World Cup but in all other matches or events? A cricketer like Hardik Pandya has been quite useful for India. All-rounders are the key players of any side, and they become the strength of a team. An all-rounder like Hardik gives Rohit Sharma the liberty to make use of the sixth bowler in a match. He is a good batter, bowler and fielder too. Ravindra Jadeja is also a perfect all-rounder for India."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-predicts-semi-finalists-of-t20-world-cup-2022-includes-india-and-pakistan-526482"><strong>Sachin Tendulkar predicts semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2022, includes India and Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p>“In T20 cricket, the team winning a match can lose the next... It’s a very difficult to talk about the chances of India winning the World Cup. The issue is can they make it to the top four? And I am concerned about their making it to the top four, only then anything can be said. For me, it’s just 30 % chance of India making it to the top (last) four.”</p>

<p>India will enter the showpiece event Down Under without the likes of premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While Jadeja was ruled out due to a knee injury, Bumrah missed out due to a stress back fracture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India are placed in Pool B with Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. The other group, i.e. Pool A, comprises Australia, England, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will also see two new additions following the ongoing qualifying round.</p>


Team India is set to commence their campaign in the Men's T20 World Cup with their opening fixture against Pakistan on Sunday (October 23) at the iconic MCG, Melbourne.

Team India is set to commence their campaign in the Men's T20 World Cup with their opening fixture against Pakistan on Sunday (October 23) at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. After bowing out of the last year's edition, in the UAE, in the Super 12 round, India will look to start on a strong note. Ahead of Rohit Sharma & Co.'s opening game, former Indian captain Kapil Dev has expressed concerns on India's chances of entering the semi-finals of the marquee event in Australia. Speaking to the press in Lucknow, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil pointed out, "What more do you want in the side other than having all-rounders who could win matches for a side not only in the World Cup but in all other matches or events? A cricketer like Hardik Pandya has been quite useful for India. All-rounders are the key players of any side, and they become the strength of a team. An all-rounder like Hardik gives Rohit Sharma the liberty to make use of the sixth bowler in a match. He is a good batter, bowler and fielder too. Ravindra Jadeja is also a perfect all-rounder for India." ALSO READ | Sachin Tendulkar predicts semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2022, includes India and Pakistan “In T20 cricket, the team winning a match can lose the next... It’s a very difficult to talk about the chances of India winning the World Cup. The issue is can they make it to the top four? And I am concerned about their making it to the top four, only then anything can be said. For me, it’s just 30 % chance of India making it to the top (last) four.” India will enter the showpiece event Down Under without the likes of premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While Jadeja was ruled out due to a knee injury, Bumrah missed out due to a stress back fracture. India are placed in Pool B with Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. The other group, i.e. Pool A, comprises Australia, England, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will also see two new additions following the ongoing qualifying round.

T20 World Cup: Kapil Dev 'concerned' with India's chances of making it to top 4 ahead of Pakistan clash

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

<p>Mohammed Shami bowled only the last over during India's narrow six-run win over Australia in their warm-up encounter ahead, in Brisbane on Monday (October 17),&nbsp;of the main draw of the T20 World Cup. Shami, who was drafted into the Indian team as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah, didn't field for the first 19 overs, with Aussies chasing a competitive 187 set by Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.,&nbsp;and came onto bowl the last six balls, returning with 1-0-4-3.</p>

<p>Shami looks set to be part of India's T20 WC opening fixture, where they will play Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23. Before that, the experienced pacer will like to bowl his full qouta of overs in India's remaining warm-up tie, where they face New Zealand on Wednesday (October 19). Filling in for Bumrah, Shami has a herculean task ahead -- having last played a T20I during the last year's World Cup in the UAE -- but looks set for the challenge.</p>

<p>Ahead of the Super 12 round of the T20 WC, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina made a bold claim. He&nbsp;feels Shami isn't a perfect replacement for Bumrah because players like him are rare.</p>

<p>"I would not call him a perfect replacement because you cannot replace Jasprit Bumrah or Ravindra Jadeja. They have played consistently for India and they have given performances," Raina told NDTV.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-md-shami-is-a-good-replacement-for-jasprit-bumrah-believes-sachin-tendulkar-526213">T20 World Cup 2022: Md Shami is a good replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, believes Sachin Tendulkar</a></strong></p>

<p>Raina, however, was quick to point out that Shami was the best choice among the other contenders to take a vacant spot&nbsp;in the Indian squad following Bumrah's back injury. "But the best option you had, you have selected him. Shami has given good performances, he has been in good form. BCCI have done really well in sending the team to Australia 15 days prior to the tournament. The grounds are big, overall I think the preparation has been nice. We will need to play fearless cricket and show good intent," he added.</p>

<p><strong>India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Md Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh</p>

<p><strong>Standby players -</strong>&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Shardul Thakur, Md Siraj</p>


Mohammed Shami bowled only the last over during India's narrow six-run win over Australia in their warm-up encounter ahead, in Brisbane on Monday (October 17), of the main draw of the T20 World Cup.

Mohammed Shami bowled only the last over during India's narrow six-run win over Australia in their warm-up encounter ahead, in Brisbane on Monday (October 17), of the main draw of the T20 World Cup. Shami, who was drafted into the Indian team as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah, didn't field for the first 19 overs, with Aussies chasing a competitive 187 set by Rohit Sharma & Co., and came onto bowl the last six balls, returning with 1-0-4-3. Shami looks set to be part of India's T20 WC opening fixture, where they will play Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23. Before that, the experienced pacer will like to bowl his full qouta of overs in India's remaining warm-up tie, where they face New Zealand on Wednesday (October 19). Filling in for Bumrah, Shami has a herculean task ahead -- having last played a T20I during the last year's World Cup in the UAE -- but looks set for the challenge. Ahead of the Super 12 round of the T20 WC, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina made a bold claim. He feels Shami isn't a perfect replacement for Bumrah because players like him are rare. "I would not call him a perfect replacement because you cannot replace Jasprit Bumrah or Ravindra Jadeja. They have played consistently for India and they have given performances," Raina told NDTV. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: Md Shami is a good replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, believes Sachin Tendulkar Raina, however, was quick to point out that Shami was the best choice among the other contenders to take a vacant spot in the Indian squad following Bumrah's back injury. "But the best option you had, you have selected him. Shami has given good performances, he has been in good form. BCCI have done really well in sending the team to Australia 15 days prior to the tournament. The grounds are big, overall I think the preparation has been nice. We will need to play fearless cricket and show good intent," he added. India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Md Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Shardul Thakur, Md Siraj

I would not call Mohammed Shami a perfect replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, says Suresh Raina

<p>On Tuesday (October 18), the Asian Cricket Chief Jay Shah -- who is also the BCCI Secretary -- has confirmed that India won't travel to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup. Shah, who interacted with the reporters after BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Mumbai, made it official that the Indian team won't go to their neighbouring country for the 50-over Asia Cup, to be held next year, and the continental tournament is likely to be held at a neutral venue.</p>

<p>"The Asia Cup 2023 will be held at a neutral venue," Shah told the media after the AGM. "I am saying this as ACC President. We [India] can't go there [to Pakistan], they can't come here. In the past also, Asia Cup has been played at a neutral venue." It is to be noted that the ACC is yet to discuss the issue, following which a conclusion&nbsp;will be out.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-visit-to-pakistan-for-2023-asia-cup-subject-to-govt-clearance-on-bccis-agenda-report-525357">India's visit to Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, subject to govt clearance, on BCCI's agenda: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The development came forward on the day when Shah was given another term as the BCCI Secretary whereas 1983 World Cup hero Roger Binny replaced Sourav Ganguly as the board's 36th President.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan haven't&nbsp;play bilateral series with each other since early 2013, when Misbah-ul-Haq-led Men in Green toured India for three ODIs and two T20Is. India's last visit to Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup whereas their last tour&nbsp;of&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;was in 2006, when Rahul Dravid was the captain of the national side.</p>

<p>Since then, both sides only meet in multi-nation or ICC events. The strained political relations have led to no bilateral series between the two Asian giants. The senior men's teams, however,&nbsp;met twice during the 2022 Asia Cup -- where India and Pakistan won a game each -- and will now lock horns in the Super 12 match during the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the MCG, Melbourne, on October 23.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the senior women's teams had also squared off in the Women's Asia Cup, recently held in Bangladesh. The Bismah Mahroof-led Pakistan women had defeated the eventual winners Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian eves in the group stage.</p>


On Tuesday (October 18), the Asian Cricket Chief Jay Shah -- who is also the BCCI Secretary -- has confirmed that India won't travel to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup.

On Tuesday (October 18), the Asian Cricket Chief Jay Shah -- who is also the BCCI Secretary -- has confirmed that India won't travel to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup. Shah, who interacted with the reporters after BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Mumbai, made it official that the Indian team won't go to their neighbouring country for the 50-over Asia Cup, to be held next year, and the continental tournament is likely to be held at a neutral venue. "The Asia Cup 2023 will be held at a neutral venue," Shah told the media after the AGM. "I am saying this as ACC President. We [India] can't go there [to Pakistan], they can't come here. In the past also, Asia Cup has been played at a neutral venue." It is to be noted that the ACC is yet to discuss the issue, following which a conclusion will be out. ALSO READ | India's visit to Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, subject to govt clearance, on BCCI's agenda: Report The development came forward on the day when Shah was given another term as the BCCI Secretary whereas 1983 World Cup hero Roger Binny replaced Sourav Ganguly as the board's 36th President. India and Pakistan haven't play bilateral series with each other since early 2013, when Misbah-ul-Haq-led Men in Green toured India for three ODIs and two T20Is. India's last visit to Pakistan was during the 2008 Asia Cup whereas their last tour of Pakistan was in 2006, when Rahul Dravid was the captain of the national side. Since then, both sides only meet in multi-nation or ICC events. The strained political relations have led to no bilateral series between the two Asian giants. The senior men's teams, however, met twice during the 2022 Asia Cup -- where India and Pakistan won a game each -- and will now lock horns in the Super 12 match during the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the MCG, Melbourne, on October 23. Meanwhile, the senior women's teams had also squared off in the Women's Asia Cup, recently held in Bangladesh. The Bismah Mahroof-led Pakistan women had defeated the eventual winners Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian eves in the group stage.

India won't tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, tournament to be held at neutral venue: ACC chief Jay Shah

<p>Early this month, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that Jasprit Bumrah has officially been ruled out of the T20 World Cup, in Australia. Bumrah, who had missed the Asia Cup 2022 edition due to back issues, was part of the India-Australia home T20Is, in September, before his back concerns re-emerged.</p>

<p>As a result, the 28-year-old Bumrah was ruled out of the ICC event due to a stress back fracture. The board took a lot of time before finally announcing Mohammed Shami, who last played a T20I during the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, as his replacement. Deepak Chahar was also a strong contender before back injury ruled him out as well. On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj -- who finished with five wickets in the recently-held three ODIs versus South Africa at home -- was also a strong candidate to replace Bumrah but BCCI selectors went ahead with the experienced Shami.</p>

<p>Recently, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar lauded Shami and feels he is an ideal replacement for Bumrah. “Bumrah not being there is a big loss and we obviously needed a strike bowler. An out-and-out genuine fast bowler, who could attack batters and get wickets. Shami has proven that and he seems a good replacement,” Tendulkar told PTI in an exclusive interview.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-saw-what-he-did-rohit-sharma-lauds-mohammed-shami-after-his-death-over-heroics-against-australia-526146">'We saw what he did': Rohit Sharma lauds Mohammed Shami after his death-over heroics against Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>On Monday (October 17), Rohit Sharma-led India locked horns with hosts Australia in a warm-up encounter, in the run-up to their 2022 T20 WC opening fixture, versus Pakistan on October 23. During the clash, India had to defend their competitive score, 186-7, and successfully managed to do that courtesy of Shami, who came onto bowl on the final over with the Aussies needing 11 for a victory.</p>

<p>Shami returned with 1-0-2-3 and displayed his rhythm from the word go.&nbsp; At the post-match presentation, Rohit said on Shami, "He (Shami) is coming back after a long time, so we wanted to give him an over. Wanted to give him a challenge and let him bowl the final over, and you saw what he did."</p>

<p>Shami is expected to play in India's remaining warm-up tie, versus New Zealand in Brisbane on October 19 (Wednesday) before the main draw of the competition begins on October 22.</p>


Early this month, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that Jasprit Bumrah has officially been ruled out of the T20 World Cup, in Australia.

Early this month, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that Jasprit Bumrah has officially been ruled out of the T20 World Cup, in Australia. Bumrah, who had missed the Asia Cup 2022 edition due to back issues, was part of the India-Australia home T20Is, in September, before his back concerns re-emerged. As a result, the 28-year-old Bumrah was ruled out of the ICC event due to a stress back fracture. The board took a lot of time before finally announcing Mohammed Shami, who last played a T20I during the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, as his replacement. Deepak Chahar was also a strong contender before back injury ruled him out as well. On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj -- who finished with five wickets in the recently-held three ODIs versus South Africa at home -- was also a strong candidate to replace Bumrah but BCCI selectors went ahead with the experienced Shami. Recently, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar lauded Shami and feels he is an ideal replacement for Bumrah. “Bumrah not being there is a big loss and we obviously needed a strike bowler. An out-and-out genuine fast bowler, who could attack batters and get wickets. Shami has proven that and he seems a good replacement,” Tendulkar told PTI in an exclusive interview. ALSO READ | 'We saw what he did': Rohit Sharma lauds Mohammed Shami after his death-over heroics against Australia On Monday (October 17), Rohit Sharma-led India locked horns with hosts Australia in a warm-up encounter, in the run-up to their 2022 T20 WC opening fixture, versus Pakistan on October 23. During the clash, India had to defend their competitive score, 186-7, and successfully managed to do that courtesy of Shami, who came onto bowl on the final over with the Aussies needing 11 for a victory. Shami returned with 1-0-2-3 and displayed his rhythm from the word go. At the post-match presentation, Rohit said on Shami, "He (Shami) is coming back after a long time, so we wanted to give him an over. Wanted to give him a challenge and let him bowl the final over, and you saw what he did." Shami is expected to play in India's remaining warm-up tie, versus New Zealand in Brisbane on October 19 (Wednesday) before the main draw of the competition begins on October 22.

T20 World Cup 2022: Md Shami is a good replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, believes Sachin Tendulkar

<p>On Monday (October 17), Team India locked horns with Australia in the warm-up tie in Brisbane ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup, which begins on October 22.&nbsp;Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bat first at The Gabba, Brisbane and rode on fifties from KL Rahul (57) and Suryakumar Yadav (50) to post a competitive 186-7 in 20 overs. In reply, Australia were bundled out for 180 in 20 overs with Mohammed Shami shining with the ball, returning with 1-0-4-3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After India's 6-run win, the players stayed back and watched the proceedings for Pakistan-England warm-up encounter, also played at the same venue. <strong>Here are the pictures:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian team watching Pakistan vs England warm-up at Gabba. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZVk9YnmEly">pic.twitter.com/ZVk9YnmEly</a></p>
— #T20WorldCup2022 #PAKvENG #PAKvNZ #PAKvNZ (@PAKSport_Tv) <a href="https://twitter.com/PAKSport_Tv/status/1581926011872350208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Team india watching Pakistan vs England warmup match in the stadium <a href="https://t.co/YuTX7Dp8Fc">pic.twitter.com/YuTX7Dp8Fc</a></p>
— Maryam 🦋 (@maryam____56) <a href="https://twitter.com/maryam____56/status/1581929115720241152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/well-yeah-i-did-matthew-wade-accepts-blame-for-obstructing-play-during-australia-england-t20i-526169">'Well, yeah, I did': Matthew Wade accepts blame for obstructing play during Australia-England T20I</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan players were also seen watching the India-Australia warm-up game, prior to their face-off versus Jos Buttler &amp; Co. Talking about their clash, Pakistan were asked to bat first and made 160-8 in rain-curtailed 19-over contest. In reply, England chased down the score in 14.4 overs, with vital knocks from Ben Stokes (36), Harry Brooks (45 not out), Liam Livingstone (28) and Sam Curran (33*).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both India and Pakistan will lock horns in their respective Super 12 openers at the MCG, Melbourne on October 23 (Sunday). Meanwhile, England and Australia are placed in Pool A and will meet at the same venue on October 28.</p>


On Monday (October 17), Team India locked horns with Australia in the warm-up tie in Brisbane ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup, which begins on October 22.

On Monday (October 17), Team India locked horns with Australia in the warm-up tie in Brisbane ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup, which begins on October 22. Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bat first at The Gabba, Brisbane and rode on fifties from KL Rahul (57) and Suryakumar Yadav (50) to post a competitive 186-7 in 20 overs. In reply, Australia were bundled out for 180 in 20 overs with Mohammed Shami shining with the ball, returning with 1-0-4-3. After India's 6-run win, the players stayed back and watched the proceedings for Pakistan-England warm-up encounter, also played at the same venue. Here are the pictures: Indian team watching Pakistan vs England warm-up at Gabba. #ENGvPAK pic.twitter.com/ZVk9YnmEly — #T20WorldCup2022 #PAKvENG #PAKvNZ #PAKvNZ (@PAKSport_Tv) October 17, 2022 × Team india watching Pakistan vs England warmup match in the stadium pic.twitter.com/YuTX7Dp8Fc — Maryam 🦋 (@maryam____56) October 17, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Well, yeah, I did': Matthew Wade accepts blame for obstructing play during Australia-England T20I Pakistan players were also seen watching the India-Australia warm-up game, prior to their face-off versus Jos Buttler & Co. Talking about their clash, Pakistan were asked to bat first and made 160-8 in rain-curtailed 19-over contest. In reply, England chased down the score in 14.4 overs, with vital knocks from Ben Stokes (36), Harry Brooks (45 not out), Liam Livingstone (28) and Sam Curran (33*). Both India and Pakistan will lock horns in their respective Super 12 openers at the MCG, Melbourne on October 23 (Sunday). Meanwhile, England and Australia are placed in Pool A and will meet at the same venue on October 28.

T20 World Cup 2022: Team India players stay back to watch Pakistan vs England warm-up game in Brisbane

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


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

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

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

<p>Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami made a brilliant comeback as he bowled a stunning final over to help India beat Australia by six runs in the warm-up match between the two sides at The Gabba on Monday (October 17). Shami went on to pick three wickets in the final over while defending 11 runs to secure a thrilling victory for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>Batting first, India rode on the fifties from KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav to post 186 runs on the board before the bowlers gave their all to defend the target.&nbsp;Skipper Aaron Finch's 54-ball 76 went in vain as Australia fell short towards the end after Shami's last-over heroics.</p>

<p>With 11 runs to defend in the final over, Shami sent Pat Cummins packing on the third delivery before Ashton Agar was run-out on the next ball. Shami then went on to nail two perfect yorkers to clean up Josh Inglis and Kane Richardson on successive deliveries and seal India's victory.</p>

<p>Shami was nowhere to be seen before the final over of the Australia innings and was not part of India's XI initially However, Rohit brought him to bowl the final over throwing him a huge challenge on his return to competitive cricket after a long gap. The Indian skipper said it was always the plan to bowl Shami in the final over while lauding him for executing the plan well.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-jasprit-bumrah-star-players-who-are-not-part-of-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-526133">From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: Star players who are not part of India's T20 World Cup squad</a></p>

<p>"Honestly, he is coming back after a long time. So we just wanted to give him an over. This was always the plan from the beginning," Rohit said on Star Sports.</p>

<p>"He comes and bowls at the death. We know how lethal he can be with the new ball. We just wanted to give him a little bit of a challenge, coming and bowling that death over and we saw what it was," he added.</p>

<p>While Shami impressed on his return despite getting to bowl just one over in the warm-up game, other Indian bowlers were taken to the cleaners as Australia came close to overhauling the target. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/20 in his three overs but barring him, all others conceded runs heavily.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-pulls-off-one-handed-screamer-on-boundary-rope-in-warm-up-game-against-australia-526072">WATCH -&nbsp;Kohli pulls off one-handed screamer on boundary rope in warm-up game against Australia</a></p>

<p>Rohit said there is still room for improvement for the Indian bowlers, who will have to adapt to the Australian conditions and vary their line and length accordingly to ensure they can be more effective when India begin&nbsp;their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against Pakistan on October 23.</p>

<p>"There is definitely room for improvement. I&nbsp;am sure we are on it but I want to see more consistency in terms of where you want to pitch the ball. You know, when you play back home and when you play in Australian conditions, you have to change your tactics, change your lengths a little bit. Sometimes, keeping it simple and hitting the ball hard on the deck will be a good option.</p>


Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami made a brilliant comeback as he bowled a stunning final over to help India beat Australia by six runs in the warm-up match between the two sides at The Gabba on Monday (October 17).

Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami made a brilliant comeback as he bowled a stunning final over to help India beat Australia by six runs in the warm-up match between the two sides at The Gabba on Monday (October 17). Shami went on to pick three wickets in the final over while defending 11 runs to secure a thrilling victory for the Men in Blue. Batting first, India rode on the fifties from KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav to post 186 runs on the board before the bowlers gave their all to defend the target. Skipper Aaron Finch's 54-ball 76 went in vain as Australia fell short towards the end after Shami's last-over heroics. With 11 runs to defend in the final over, Shami sent Pat Cummins packing on the third delivery before Ashton Agar was run-out on the next ball. Shami then went on to nail two perfect yorkers to clean up Josh Inglis and Kane Richardson on successive deliveries and seal India's victory. Shami was nowhere to be seen before the final over of the Australia innings and was not part of India's XI initially However, Rohit brought him to bowl the final over throwing him a huge challenge on his return to competitive cricket after a long gap. The Indian skipper said it was always the plan to bowl Shami in the final over while lauding him for executing the plan well. Also Read: From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: Star players who are not part of India's T20 World Cup squad "Honestly, he is coming back after a long time. So we just wanted to give him an over. This was always the plan from the beginning," Rohit said on Star Sports. "He comes and bowls at the death. We know how lethal he can be with the new ball. We just wanted to give him a little bit of a challenge, coming and bowling that death over and we saw what it was," he added. While Shami impressed on his return despite getting to bowl just one over in the warm-up game, other Indian bowlers were taken to the cleaners as Australia came close to overhauling the target. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/20 in his three overs but barring him, all others conceded runs heavily. Also Read: WATCH - Kohli pulls off one-handed screamer on boundary rope in warm-up game against Australia Rohit said there is still room for improvement for the Indian bowlers, who will have to adapt to the Australian conditions and vary their line and length accordingly to ensure they can be more effective when India begin their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against Pakistan on October 23. "There is definitely room for improvement. I am sure we are on it but I want to see more consistency in terms of where you want to pitch the ball. You know, when you play back home and when you play in Australian conditions, you have to change your tactics, change your lengths a little bit. Sometimes, keeping it simple and hitting the ball hard on the deck will be a good option.

'We saw what he did': Rohit Sharma lauds Mohammed Shami after his death-over heroics against Australia

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India is set to kick off their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition with their first game versus arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Team India reached Australia for the showpiece event early this month and have already played three warm-up games, with two against Western Australia XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Winning two of their three warm-up games, so far, India will meet New Zealand on October 19 (Wednesday) at Brisbane in their last practice game before their opening fixture in the main draw of the tournament. For India, they enter the ICC event as the No. 1 ranked side and have been in form in T20Is since their debacle in last year's edition. The likes of Rohit, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. will be crucial to India's chances Down Under.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-pulls-off-one-handed-screamer-on-boundary-rope-in-warm-up-game-against-australia-526072"><strong>WATCH: Virat Kohli pulls off one-handed screamer on boundary rope in warm-up game against Australia</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Md Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh</p>

<p><strong>Standby players -</strong>&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Shardul Thakur, Md Siraj</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shamis-last-over-heroics-help-india-beat-australia-by-6-runs-in-warm-up-match-526057"><strong>Mohammed Shami's last-over heroics help India beat Australia by 6 runs in warm-up match</strong></a></p>

<p>While the 15-man main squad and reserve list have plenty of match-winners for Team India, <strong>here's looking at Men in Blue's star-studded XI featuring players who are not part of the showpiece event Down Under:</strong></p>

<p><strong>India's missed-out XI:</strong> Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Venketesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja, Umran Malik, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah</p>

<p>The above XI shows the depth of India's squad and the abundance of talent in the Indian camp. The experienced trio of Shikhar Dhawan, Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah missed out with the latter two being injured whereas Dhawan has been sidelined from T20Is. The younger lot such as Prithvi Shaw, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan are destined to take over from the likes of KL Rahul, Rohit and Kohli but for now, they didn't find a spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chahar missed out again due to back issues after being named in the reserves. Meanwhile, Samson and Kuldeep are part of the second-stringed white-ball Indian team but weren't considered for the T20 WC. Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer went down the pecking order as soon as Hardik Pandya was deemed fully fit in early 2022.</p>

<p>Lastly, Umran has featured in only a handful of T20Is, indicating that he still needs to learn a lot and more exposure to be considered for such a marquee event.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India is set to kick off their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition with their first game versus arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 at the iconic MCG, Melbourne.

Rohit Sharma-led India is set to kick off their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition with their first game versus arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23 at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. Team India reached Australia for the showpiece event early this month and have already played three warm-up games, with two against Western Australia XI. Winning two of their three warm-up games, so far, India will meet New Zealand on October 19 (Wednesday) at Brisbane in their last practice game before their opening fixture in the main draw of the tournament. For India, they enter the ICC event as the No. 1 ranked side and have been in form in T20Is since their debacle in last year's edition. The likes of Rohit, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. will be crucial to India's chances Down Under. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli pulls off one-handed screamer on boundary rope in warm-up game against Australia India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Md Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Shardul Thakur, Md Siraj ALSO READ | Mohammed Shami's last-over heroics help India beat Australia by 6 runs in warm-up match While the 15-man main squad and reserve list have plenty of match-winners for Team India, here's looking at Men in Blue's star-studded XI featuring players who are not part of the showpiece event Down Under: India's missed-out XI: Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Venketesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja, Umran Malik, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah The above XI shows the depth of India's squad and the abundance of talent in the Indian camp. The experienced trio of Shikhar Dhawan, Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah missed out with the latter two being injured whereas Dhawan has been sidelined from T20Is. The younger lot such as Prithvi Shaw, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan are destined to take over from the likes of KL Rahul, Rohit and Kohli but for now, they didn't find a spot. Chahar missed out again due to back issues after being named in the reserves. Meanwhile, Samson and Kuldeep are part of the second-stringed white-ball Indian team but weren't considered for the T20 WC. Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer went down the pecking order as soon as Hardik Pandya was deemed fully fit in early 2022. Lastly, Umran has featured in only a handful of T20Is, indicating that he still needs to learn a lot and more exposure to be considered for such a marquee event.

From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: Star players who are not part of India's T20 World Cup squad

<p>Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made 11-year-old Durshil Sharma's day as he invited the young prodigious talent to train with the Indian team after noticing him at the stadium. The Indian team is currently training in Brisbane ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022.</p>

<p>Sharma, a left-arm fast bowler, managed to leave an impression on Rohit while training at the same stadium where the Indian team was practising. The Indian skipper spotted the young kid and decided to call him into the Indian team's dressing room. Rohit also invited him to bowl against him in the nets.</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to their official Twitter handle to share a video of Drushil training with the Indian team and narrating his experience of spending the day with some of his favourite cricketers. The 11-year-old said yorker and outswinger were his favourite deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-set-to-return-as-cab-president-as-bcci-stint-nears-end-525802">Sourav Ganguly set to return as CAB president as BCCI stint nears end</a></p>

<p>Drushil also spoke to Indian captain Rohit, who asked him if he would like to travel to India in the future and play for the national team. The 11-year-old said his dream is to become a professional cricketer but he has no idea when he will get to travel to India.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗗𝗢 𝗡𝗢𝗧 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦!<br />
<br />
When a 11-year-old impressed <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> with his smooth action!<br />
<br />
A fascinating story of Drushil Chauhan who caught the eye of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain &amp; got invited to the nets and the Indian dressing room. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a><br />
<br />
Watch <a href="https://t.co/CbDLMiOaQO">https://t.co/CbDLMiOaQO</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1581513448906973184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian cricket team touched down in Australia earlier this month and have since been fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022. India have already played two warm-up matches against Western Australia XI and will lock horns with Australia and New Zealand in two more practice matches next week.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-as-accustomed-as-them-england-captain-jos-buttler-picks-his-favourites-for-t20-world-cup-2022-525812">No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23. The Men in Blue are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja in the tournament this year but will be hopeful of giving their best against Pakistan to get off to a winning start in the tournament.</p>


Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made 11-year-old Durshil Sharma's day as he invited the young prodigious talent to train with the Indian team after noticing him at the stadium.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made 11-year-old Durshil Sharma's day as he invited the young prodigious talent to train with the Indian team after noticing him at the stadium. The Indian team is currently training in Brisbane ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022. Sharma, a left-arm fast bowler, managed to leave an impression on Rohit while training at the same stadium where the Indian team was practising. The Indian skipper spotted the young kid and decided to call him into the Indian team's dressing room. Rohit also invited him to bowl against him in the nets. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to their official Twitter handle to share a video of Drushil training with the Indian team and narrating his experience of spending the day with some of his favourite cricketers. The 11-year-old said yorker and outswinger were his favourite deliveries. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly set to return as CAB president as BCCI stint nears end Drushil also spoke to Indian captain Rohit, who asked him if he would like to travel to India in the future and play for the national team. The 11-year-old said his dream is to become a professional cricketer but he has no idea when he will get to travel to India. 𝗗𝗢 𝗡𝗢𝗧 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦! When a 11-year-old impressed @ImRo45 with his smooth action! A fascinating story of Drushil Chauhan who caught the eye of #TeamIndia Captain & got invited to the nets and the Indian dressing room. #T20WorldCup Watch https://t.co/CbDLMiOaQO — BCCI (@BCCI) October 16, 2022 × The Indian cricket team touched down in Australia earlier this month and have since been fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the start of their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2022. India have already played two warm-up matches against Western Australia XI and will lock horns with Australia and New Zealand in two more practice matches next week. Also Read: No one is as accustomed as them: England captain Jos Buttler picks his favourites for T20 World Cup 2022 India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23. The Men in Blue are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja in the tournament this year but will be hopeful of giving their best against Pakistan to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

WATCH: Dream come true moment for 11-year-old as he bowls to India captain Rohit Sharma in nets

<p>Captains of all 16 teams taking part in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 shared the stage in Melbourne on Saturday as they addressed the press ahead of the start of the showpiece event down under. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was under the spotlight along with Pakistan captain Babar Azam as the duo responded to several questions on the much-anticipated marquee clash between the arch-rivals on October 23.</p>

<p>India will lock horns with eternal rivals Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2022 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne. The hype surrounding the clash is at an all-time high and the tickets were sold out within minutes of being available.</p>

<p>India have enjoyed unprecedented success against Pakistan when it comes to World Cup meetings, however, the Men in Blue suffered their first-ever defeat against the arch-rivals in a World Cup game in the T20 World Cup last year. Pakistan have now defeated India twice in their last three meetings to enjoy an edge over the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>Despite the intense rivalry shared by the two teams, the players from both sides continue to share a cordial relationship with each other. Pictures and videos of the India and Pakistan players catching up ahead of their clash in the Asia Cup 2022 had gone viral on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rohit-sharma-superstar-batters-who-could-be-playing-their-last-t20-world-cup-525457">From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma: Superstar batters who could be playing their last T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>Indian skipper Rohit was asked about the&nbsp;camaraderie between the India and Pakistan players during the captain's meet on Saturday. Rohit said the players casually chat about their families and cars among other things when they meet off the pitch.</p>

<p>"We understand the importance of the game (India vs Pakistan). But there is no point in talking about it all the time and creating that pressure within yourself," Rohit said on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Whenever we (India and Pakistan) players meet, when we met at the Asia Cup, we talk about our families, ask about what's happening in our homes. That's all. From the interactions that I have had with Babar's teammates, we talk about such stuff only.</p>

<p>"Even the players from the previous generation have told us that the conversations were all about home, life and sometimes even about who's getting a new car and what car," added the Indian skipper.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-could-lose-big-if-central-govt-sticks-to-decision-of-increasing-tax-outlay-for-2023-odi-world-cup-525474">BCCI could lose BIG if central govt sticks to decision of increasing tax outlay for 2023 ODI World Cup</a></p>

<p>India and Pakistan will be looking forward to producing yet another blockbuster encounter when they lock horns in the T20 World Cup 2022 at the MCG on October 23. India have lost only once against Pakistan in a total of six meetings in the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India will be without their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the game, Pakistan have received a major boost ahead of the high-profile game as left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been deemed fit to play against India.</p>


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

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

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

<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained why the Indian team management decided against risking Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, stating that the fast bowler's career is more important than the trophy for the team. Bumrah was ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury.</p>

<p>One of the best fast bowlers in the world at present, Bumrah's absence is a huge blow to Team India's chances at the World Cup. However, Rohit said the 28-year-old's career is more important for the Indian team compared to their chances of winning the T20 World Cup in Australia this month.</p>

<p>Bumrah had missed the Asia Cup in the UAE earlier this year due to a back issue before making his comeback from injury during the home series against Australia. He was set to feature in the T20 series against South Africa at home but was ruled out once again after his back injury resurfaced.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-bcci-names-mohammed-shami-as-jasprit-bumrahs-replacement-siraj-shardul-added-in-reserves-525424">BCCI names Mohammed Shami as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement, Siraj-Shardul added in reserves</a></p>

<p>BCCI eventually confirmed his ouster from the T20 World Cup while naming Mohammed Shami as his replacement, days ahead of the start of the tournament. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Rohit revealed the Indian team management consulted with specialists regarding Bumrah's injury but decided against risking him for the World Cup.</p>

<p>"Bumrah is a quality player, he has been playing very well over the years. Unfortunately, injuries happen. But you can't do anything about it. We spoke to a lot of specialists about his injury but we didn't get a positive response. World Cup. Yes, it's very important, but his career, for us, is more important. He is just 28 years old and he has a lot of cricket left in him," Rohit said speaking about Bumrah's injury.</p>

<p>"So, we can't take such risks. All the specialists we spoke to, also suggested the same. There is a lot of cricket left to be played. He will play a lot more matches and win a lot more matches for India in the future. There is no doubt about it. But his absence is a blow for us," the Indian skipper added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/baseless-specualtions-arun-dhumal-on-bcci-members-being-against-sourav-ganguly-continuing-as-president-525607">Baseless specualtions: Arun Dhumal on BCCI members being against Sourav Ganguly continuing as president</a></p>

<p>Apart from Bumrah, India are also missing the services of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for the T20 World Cup 2022 due to an injury. The Men in Blue will also be without pacer Deepak Chahar, who was part of the reserves but has been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury.</p>

<p>While Shami has taken Bumrah's spot in India's squad, pacers Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur have been included in the reserves in Chahar's absence.&nbsp;India will begin their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23.</p>


Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained why the Indian team management decided against risking Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, stating that the fast bowler's career is more important than the trophy for the team.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained why the Indian team management decided against risking Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, stating that the fast bowler's career is more important than the trophy for the team. Bumrah was ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury. One of the best fast bowlers in the world at present, Bumrah's absence is a huge blow to Team India's chances at the World Cup. However, Rohit said the 28-year-old's career is more important for the Indian team compared to their chances of winning the T20 World Cup in Australia this month. Bumrah had missed the Asia Cup in the UAE earlier this year due to a back issue before making his comeback from injury during the home series against Australia. He was set to feature in the T20 series against South Africa at home but was ruled out once again after his back injury resurfaced. Also Read: BCCI names Mohammed Shami as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement, Siraj-Shardul added in reserves BCCI eventually confirmed his ouster from the T20 World Cup while naming Mohammed Shami as his replacement, days ahead of the start of the tournament. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Rohit revealed the Indian team management consulted with specialists regarding Bumrah's injury but decided against risking him for the World Cup. "Bumrah is a quality player, he has been playing very well over the years. Unfortunately, injuries happen. But you can't do anything about it. We spoke to a lot of specialists about his injury but we didn't get a positive response. World Cup. Yes, it's very important, but his career, for us, is more important. He is just 28 years old and he has a lot of cricket left in him," Rohit said speaking about Bumrah's injury. "So, we can't take such risks. All the specialists we spoke to, also suggested the same. There is a lot of cricket left to be played. He will play a lot more matches and win a lot more matches for India in the future. There is no doubt about it. But his absence is a blow for us," the Indian skipper added. Also Read: Baseless specualtions: Arun Dhumal on BCCI members being against Sourav Ganguly continuing as president Apart from Bumrah, India are also missing the services of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for the T20 World Cup 2022 due to an injury. The Men in Blue will also be without pacer Deepak Chahar, who was part of the reserves but has been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury. While Shami has taken Bumrah's spot in India's squad, pacers Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur have been included in the reserves in Chahar's absence. India will begin their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23.

Jasprit Bumrah is just 28, his career is more important than the T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma

<p>The stage is set for the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 edition clash, which will take place on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. The main draw of the tournament starts on October 22 whereas the qualifiers will get underway on October 16.</p>

<p>Hence, India and Pakistan will square off on the second day of the main draw and the clash is expected to go down to the wire. Both sides met in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. thrashed India by ten wickets as Pakistan defeated their arch-rivals in a World Cup match for the first time ever. After that, they met twice in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, with both teams getting a win each.</p>

<p>Prior to the T20 WC face-off, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra made a bold claim. He believes only one between India and Pakistan will make it to the semi-finals, along with South Africa from Pool B.</p>

<p>"Two teams out of India, Pakistan, and South Africa will go ahead. They (Pakistan) should reach the semi-finals, but it will not be easy. I am saying only one out of India and Pakistan will make it. Whoever wins the India-Pakistan match will make it. I feel South Africa will make it," Chopra&nbsp;said on his Youtube channel.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-beware-team-india-pcb-chief-ramiz-raja-reveals-shaheen-afridi-is-90-per-cent-fit-525153"><strong>T20 World Cup: Beware Team India! PCB chief Ramiz Raja reveals Shaheen Afridi is '90 per cent' fit</strong></a></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Pool A comprises defending champions and hosts Australia, England, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. Pool B has India, Pakistan, South Africa, and Bangladesh whereas both groups will have two teams, each, joining them from the qualifiers.</p>

<p>The top two from both groups will head to the semi-finals and Chopra believes it will be India or Pakistan along with Temba Bavuma-led Proteas from Pool B.</p>


The stage is set for the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 edition clash, which will take place on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

The stage is set for the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 edition clash, which will take place on October 23 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. The main draw of the tournament starts on October 22 whereas the qualifiers will get underway on October 16. Hence, India and Pakistan will square off on the second day of the main draw and the clash is expected to go down to the wire. Both sides met in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, where Babar Azam & Co. thrashed India by ten wickets as Pakistan defeated their arch-rivals in a World Cup match for the first time ever. After that, they met twice in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, with both teams getting a win each. Prior to the T20 WC face-off, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra made a bold claim. He believes only one between India and Pakistan will make it to the semi-finals, along with South Africa from Pool B. "Two teams out of India, Pakistan, and South Africa will go ahead. They (Pakistan) should reach the semi-finals, but it will not be easy. I am saying only one out of India and Pakistan will make it. Whoever wins the India-Pakistan match will make it. I feel South Africa will make it," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Beware Team India! PCB chief Ramiz Raja reveals Shaheen Afridi is '90 per cent' fit It is to be noted that Pool A comprises defending champions and hosts Australia, England, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. Pool B has India, Pakistan, South Africa, and Bangladesh whereas both groups will have two teams, each, joining them from the qualifiers. The top two from both groups will head to the semi-finals and Chopra believes it will be India or Pakistan along with Temba Bavuma-led Proteas from Pool B.

Whoever wins India-Pakistan match will enter T20 World Cup semi-finals, predicts Aakash Chopra

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

<p>After a long wait, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have named Mohammed Shami as the replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup squad. Ever since it became official that Bumrah won't be part of the T20 WC, speculations were rife regarding who will replace him. At first, the contenders were Md Shami and Deepak Chahar. However, with Chahar also bowing out due to back issues, Shami has now become Bumrah's replacement.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the likes of pacer Mohammed Siraj and all-rounder Shardul Thakur have been added to the reserves. The duo were part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian ODI team, who beat South Africa 2-1 at home. During the three-match series, Siraj picked up five wickets at an economy of 4.52 and returned as the Player-of-the-Series. Shardul also contributed with three scalps and scored a vital 31-ball 33 during the series opener.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whoever-wins-india-pakistan-match-will-enter-t20-world-cup-semi-finals-predicts-aakash-chopra-525337"><strong>Whoever wins India-Pakistan match will enter T20 World Cup semi-finals, predicts Aakash Chopra</strong></a></p>

<blockquote>
<p>BCCI release | The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Mohammed Shami as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement in India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup squad. Shami has reached Australia and will link up with the squad in Brisbane ahead of the warm-up matches.</p>

<p>Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur have been named as backups and will travel to Australia shortly.</p>
</blockquote>

<p><strong>India's revised squad for ICC T20 World Cup:</strong> Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami.</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will play two warm-up games, versus Australia and New Zealand respectively, before their T20 WC opening fixture, where they will lock horns with Pakistan at the MCG, Melbourne on October 23.</p>


After a long wait, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have named Mohammed Shami as the replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup squad.

After a long wait, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have named Mohammed Shami as the replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup squad. Ever since it became official that Bumrah won't be part of the T20 WC, speculations were rife regarding who will replace him. At first, the contenders were Md Shami and Deepak Chahar. However, with Chahar also bowing out due to back issues, Shami has now become Bumrah's replacement. Meanwhile, the likes of pacer Mohammed Siraj and all-rounder Shardul Thakur have been added to the reserves. The duo were part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian ODI team, who beat South Africa 2-1 at home. During the three-match series, Siraj picked up five wickets at an economy of 4.52 and returned as the Player-of-the-Series. Shardul also contributed with three scalps and scored a vital 31-ball 33 during the series opener. ALSO READ | Whoever wins India-Pakistan match will enter T20 World Cup semi-finals, predicts Aakash Chopra BCCI release | The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Mohammed Shami as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement in India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup squad. Shami has reached Australia and will link up with the squad in Brisbane ahead of the warm-up matches. Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur have been named as backups and will travel to Australia shortly. India's revised squad for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami. Rohit-led India will play two warm-up games, versus Australia and New Zealand respectively, before their T20 WC opening fixture, where they will lock horns with Pakistan at the MCG, Melbourne on October 23.

T20 WC: BCCI names Mohammed Shami as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement, Siraj-Shardul added in reserves

<p>Babar Azam-led Pakistan is set to get a massive boost as premier pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the cusp of joining the national side in Australia on Saturday (October 15). Shaheen had been ruled out of action, after an knee injury he sustained during the Sri Lanka Tests in the island nation early this year, and missed the Asia Cup before also being out of the&nbsp;home T20Is versus England and the ongoing New Zealand T20I tri-series.</p>

<p>Shaheen is in recovery mode&nbsp;and is '90 per cent ready' -- as per PCB chief Ramiz Raja -- for the T20 World Cup, which will get underway in Australia on October 16. Babar-led Men in Green are placed in Pool B along with India, Bangladesh, and South Africa whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. Pakistan will open their campaign in the main draw of the mega event, facing India at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing Shaheen's fitness update, Ramiz said in a recent interview, "I have spoken to him we are in touch with his doctors and the feedback we have got is he is 90 per cent ready."</p>

<p>"But knee injuries can be delicate and technical and we have to see if he feels any soreness after playing the warm-up games. On his part he says he is ready and I think we are also ready," the former Pakistan captain added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-t20i-tri-series-babar-breaks-kohlis-record-becomes-fastest-asian-batter-to-attain-historic-feat-525117"><strong>NZ T20I tri-series: Babar breaks Kohli's record, becomes fastest Asian batter to attain HISTORIC feat</strong></a></p>

<p>Shaheen, who has represented Pakistan in 25 Tests, 32 ODIs and 40 T20Is, has been a mainstay in the national side and starred in his side's ten-wicket win over arch-rivals India in the 2021 T20 WC, in the UAE. The left-arm pacer returned with match-winning spell of 3 for 31, removing India's famed top-three Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, to restrict the Men in Blue for 151-5. In reply, Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled the Men in Green to a memorable ten-wicket win over their Asian neighbours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, Pakistan is involved in a T20I tri-series in New Zealand, including Bangladesh, in the run-up to the T20 WC. They defeated the Bangla Tigers by seven wickets in the last group stage encounter on Thursday (October 13), in Christchurch, and will now face the hosts in the tournament finale on Friday (October 14).</p>


Babar Azam-led Pakistan is set to get a massive boost as premier pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the cusp of joining the national side in Australia on Saturday (October 15).

Babar Azam-led Pakistan is set to get a massive boost as premier pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the cusp of joining the national side in Australia on Saturday (October 15). Shaheen had been ruled out of action, after an knee injury he sustained during the Sri Lanka Tests in the island nation early this year, and missed the Asia Cup before also being out of the home T20Is versus England and the ongoing New Zealand T20I tri-series. Shaheen is in recovery mode and is '90 per cent ready' -- as per PCB chief Ramiz Raja -- for the T20 World Cup, which will get underway in Australia on October 16. Babar-led Men in Green are placed in Pool B along with India, Bangladesh, and South Africa whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. Pakistan will open their campaign in the main draw of the mega event, facing India at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23. Sharing Shaheen's fitness update, Ramiz said in a recent interview, "I have spoken to him we are in touch with his doctors and the feedback we have got is he is 90 per cent ready." "But knee injuries can be delicate and technical and we have to see if he feels any soreness after playing the warm-up games. On his part he says he is ready and I think we are also ready," the former Pakistan captain added. ALSO READ | NZ T20I tri-series: Babar breaks Kohli's record, becomes fastest Asian batter to attain HISTORIC feat Shaheen, who has represented Pakistan in 25 Tests, 32 ODIs and 40 T20Is, has been a mainstay in the national side and starred in his side's ten-wicket win over arch-rivals India in the 2021 T20 WC, in the UAE. The left-arm pacer returned with match-winning spell of 3 for 31, removing India's famed top-three Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, to restrict the Men in Blue for 151-5. In reply, Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled the Men in Green to a memorable ten-wicket win over their Asian neighbours. At present, Pakistan is involved in a T20I tri-series in New Zealand, including Bangladesh, in the run-up to the T20 WC. They defeated the Bangla Tigers by seven wickets in the last group stage encounter on Thursday (October 13), in Christchurch, and will now face the hosts in the tournament finale on Friday (October 14).

T20 World Cup: Beware Team India! PCB chief Ramiz Raja reveals Shaheen Afridi is '90 per cent' fit

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