<p>India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- many believed Virat Kohli-led Team India will manage to beat the Black Caps and get back to winning ways. However, they lost their second game on the trot, after losing to Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener.</p>

<p>While nothing clicked for India versus the Kiwis, the move to demote Rohit Sharma to the No. 3 position was heavily criticised. Ahead of India's upcoming match versus Afghanistan, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on the move and revealed that vice-captain Rohit was part of the decision-making which demoted him down the order.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160"><strong>Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Rathour told the reporters on Tuesday (November 2), "Suryakumar Yadav was having some back spasm. He was not fit enough for the match. The whole management took the call to send Ishan as an opener and, of course, Rohit was part of the decision,” Rathour told reporters.</p>

<p>“Ishan has done well as an opener in the IPL as well as in the practice matches, that’s why he has been sent as an opener,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-t20is-against-new-zealand-hardik-bhuvneshwar-likely-to-be-dropped-report-426155"><strong>Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Rohit returned for a 14-ball 14 whereas Ishan managed only a mere 4 runs versus the Black Caps at Dubai. As a result, India posted a paltry 110/7 and failed to defend the total as Kane Williamson-led Kiwis won the game by eight wickets, with 33 balls to spare.</p>

<p>Kohli &amp; Co. need to win against Afghanistan to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. For now, the one-time winners are in contention mathematically but their chances are bleak with back-to-back defeats.</p>


India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- many believed Virat Kohli-led Team India will manage to beat the Black Caps and get back to winning ways. However, they lost their second game on the trot, after losing to Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener. While nothing clicked for India versus the Kiwis, the move to demote Rohit Sharma to the No. 3 position was heavily criticised. Ahead of India's upcoming match versus Afghanistan, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on the move and revealed that vice-captain Rohit was part of the decision-making which demoted him down the order. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Rathour told the reporters on Tuesday (November 2), "Suryakumar Yadav was having some back spasm. He was not fit enough for the match. The whole management took the call to send Ishan as an opener and, of course, Rohit was part of the decision,” Rathour told reporters. “Ishan has done well as an opener in the IPL as well as in the practice matches, that’s why he has been sent as an opener,” he added. ALSO READ | Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report Rohit returned for a 14-ball 14 whereas Ishan managed only a mere 4 runs versus the Black Caps at Dubai. As a result, India posted a paltry 110/7 and failed to defend the total as Kane Williamson-led Kiwis won the game by eight wickets, with 33 balls to spare. Kohli & Co. need to win against Afghanistan to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. For now, the one-time winners are in contention mathematically but their chances are bleak with back-to-back defeats.

T20 WC: Vikram Rathour reveals Rohit Sharma was part of Virat Kohli & Co.'s decision to demote him vs NZ

<p>Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event.</p>

<p>Captain Kohli isn't having the best of times at present. While a lot was said when he announced his decision to resign as the T20I captain before the ongoing World Cup, many hoped that he would sign off on a high and finally win his first-ever ICC title as Team India's captain. Nonetheless, India's campaign so far has been disastrous, to say the least.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-t20is-against-new-zealand-hardik-bhuvneshwar-likely-to-be-dropped-report-426155"><strong>Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Now, reports suggest that Kohli might lose ODI captaincy. As per a report in PTI, the BCCI might discuss Kohli's ODI captaincy future.&nbsp;In addition, it will make more sense to have one player as the white-ball captain rather than splitting captaincy in shorter formats.</p>

<p>The report further states that since India have only three 50-over games in the current home season, with all the encounters against West Indies in February. Hence, the Indian cricket board is looking to stitch a two-year master-plan&nbsp;heading into the 2023 World Cup.</p>

<p>For the unversed, India have an ODI series in South Africa. It will be interesting to see&nbsp;whether Kohli would voluntarily step down from the 50-over captaincy or if he will wait for the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI to ask him to vacate the top post. In all likelihood, his leadership days in shorter formats are numbered given how things are shaping up for India in the T20 WC.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089"><strong>Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>India are set to go through a transition process post the T20 WC. As of now, Rohit Sharma looks like the strongest contender to take up white-ball captaincy whereas Rahul Dravid is more or less confirmed to replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach.</p>


Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event. Captain Kohli isn't having the best of times at present. While a lot was said when he announced his decision to resign as the T20I captain before the ongoing World Cup, many hoped that he would sign off on a high and finally win his first-ever ICC title as Team India's captain. Nonetheless, India's campaign so far has been disastrous, to say the least. ALSO READ | Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report Now, reports suggest that Kohli might lose ODI captaincy. As per a report in PTI, the BCCI might discuss Kohli's ODI captaincy future. In addition, it will make more sense to have one player as the white-ball captain rather than splitting captaincy in shorter formats. The report further states that since India have only three 50-over games in the current home season, with all the encounters against West Indies in February. Hence, the Indian cricket board is looking to stitch a two-year master-plan heading into the 2023 World Cup. For the unversed, India have an ODI series in South Africa. It will be interesting to see whether Kohli would voluntarily step down from the 50-over captaincy or if he will wait for the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI to ask him to vacate the top post. In all likelihood, his leadership days in shorter formats are numbered given how things are shaping up for India in the T20 WC. ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC India are set to go through a transition process post the T20 WC. As of now, Rohit Sharma looks like the strongest contender to take up white-ball captaincy whereas Rahul Dravid is more or less confirmed to replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach.

Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports

<p>India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event.</p>

<p>While nothing clicked for India, from the coin toss to posting 110/7 and losing by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led team management were slammed left, right and centre as they demoted vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. It is interesting to note that Ishan was roped in the playing XI for Suryakumar Yadav, who normally bats at No. 3 or 4.</p>

<p>As India shuffled their batting line-up, to only manage 110 for 7 and lose convincingly, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag compared Rohit's demotion to some glaring mistakes committed by Rahul Dravid-led Team India during their forgettable 2007 ODI World Cup campaign.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sending-jasprit-bumrah-wasnt-right-md-azharuddin-feels-ravi-shastri-should-have-come-for-post-match-pc-426136"><strong>Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC</strong></a></p>

<p>Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "In the 2007 World Cup, we had made two mistakes. When we were chasing so well - we won 17 consecutive matches while chasing - but when the World Cup arrived, our coach said 'no, we need batting practice'. I said 'let us win 2 matches first and then we will have 6 matches to improve our batting. But he said 'No'.</p>

<p>"The second mistake was that when the opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly were performing so well, so why was that broken? Why was it said that if Tendulkar bats in the middle order, you can control it?"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089"><strong>Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>"We had already had three players to control - Yuvraj Singh, Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni. Why did you need a fourth one? Sachin batted at No. 4 and see what happened. When teams change strategy, that is when they play badly. When there is a proven formula, there is no need to change it. That is the best example I can give," he pointed out.</p>

<p>After India's second successive defeat, Kohli &amp; Co. are starring on the brink of early elimination in the T20 WC. They will next face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan and need to win to remain alive in the competition. The Men in Blue require some big wins in the remaining games and will also have to hope for other results to favour them if they have to progress ahead in the showpiece event.</p>


India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event. While nothing clicked for India, from the coin toss to posting 110/7 and losing by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led team management were slammed left, right and centre as they demoted vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. It is interesting to note that Ishan was roped in the playing XI for Suryakumar Yadav, who normally bats at No. 3 or 4. As India shuffled their batting line-up, to only manage 110 for 7 and lose convincingly, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag compared Rohit's demotion to some glaring mistakes committed by Rahul Dravid-led Team India during their forgettable 2007 ODI World Cup campaign. ALSO READ | Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "In the 2007 World Cup, we had made two mistakes. When we were chasing so well - we won 17 consecutive matches while chasing - but when the World Cup arrived, our coach said 'no, we need batting practice'. I said 'let us win 2 matches first and then we will have 6 matches to improve our batting. But he said 'No'. "The second mistake was that when the opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly were performing so well, so why was that broken? Why was it said that if Tendulkar bats in the middle order, you can control it?" ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC "We had already had three players to control - Yuvraj Singh, Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni. Why did you need a fourth one? Sachin batted at No. 4 and see what happened. When teams change strategy, that is when they play badly. When there is a proven formula, there is no need to change it. That is the best example I can give," he pointed out. After India's second successive defeat, Kohli & Co. are starring on the brink of early elimination in the T20 WC. They will next face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan and need to win to remain alive in the competition. The Men in Blue require some big wins in the remaining games and will also have to hope for other results to favour them if they have to progress ahead in the showpiece event.

'Sachin batted at No. 4': Virender Sehwag compares Rohit's demotion against NZ to India's mistakes in 2007 WC

<p>Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format. While BCCI has not yet confirmed Kohli's successor, Rohit is expected to become India's full-time T20I skipper keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.</p>

<p>As per a report in PTI, Rohit will lead India in the T20Is series against Black Caps while current skipper Kohli's future in ODIs remains in doubt as well. Kohli has confirmed leaving the T20I captaincy but will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests. However, BCCI might ask him to resign from ODI captaincy as well after India's yet another failure in a major ICC tournament.</p>

<p>India have made a woeful start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches and stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament. Kohli's position as India's captain in ODIs is all set to be discussed when BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah and the national selectors meet in the next few days, as per PTI.</p>

<p>While there were reports that seniors might be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand and KL Rahul might get to lead the side, a senior BCCI official told PTI that Rohit hasn't said he would not want to lead the team and the series against the Black Caps can be his first as India's full-time T20I skipper.</p>

<p>"First things first, the squads for the New Zealand series need to be decided. Rohit hasn't yet said that he doesn't want to lead in the T20 Internationals against New Zealand. And why would he not want to lead? It's his first series as full-time T20 captain," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to be dropped from the T20 side</strong></p>

<p>All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been dealing with long-standing fitness issues and senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to be dropped from the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand, as per PTI. The selectors will be picking the squad keeping the next T20 World Cup in 2022 in mind.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048">Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</a></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ruturaj Gaikwad, who enjoyed a brilliant campaign for the IPL 2021 champions by bagging the Orange Cap, might make the cut along with the likes of other proven IPL performers like Avesh Khan and senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer can also be selected as an all-rounder after impressing in IPL 2021 along with rising fast bowler Umran Malik, who has garnered limelight with his pace. The squad for the New Zealand T20I series is likely to be announced by the end of this week.</p>

<p>India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against New Zealand at home in November.</p>


Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format. While BCCI has not yet confirmed Kohli's successor, Rohit is expected to become India's full-time T20I skipper keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind. As per a report in PTI, Rohit will lead India in the T20Is series against Black Caps while current skipper Kohli's future in ODIs remains in doubt as well. Kohli has confirmed leaving the T20I captaincy but will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests. However, BCCI might ask him to resign from ODI captaincy as well after India's yet another failure in a major ICC tournament. India have made a woeful start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches and stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament. Kohli's position as India's captain in ODIs is all set to be discussed when BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah and the national selectors meet in the next few days, as per PTI. While there were reports that seniors might be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand and KL Rahul might get to lead the side, a senior BCCI official told PTI that Rohit hasn't said he would not want to lead the team and the series against the Black Caps can be his first as India's full-time T20I skipper. "First things first, the squads for the New Zealand series need to be decided. Rohit hasn't yet said that he doesn't want to lead in the T20 Internationals against New Zealand. And why would he not want to lead? It's his first series as full-time T20 captain," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI. Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to be dropped from the T20 side All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been dealing with long-standing fitness issues and senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to be dropped from the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand, as per PTI. The selectors will be picking the squad keeping the next T20 World Cup in 2022 in mind. Also Read: Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ruturaj Gaikwad, who enjoyed a brilliant campaign for the IPL 2021 champions by bagging the Orange Cap, might make the cut along with the likes of other proven IPL performers like Avesh Khan and senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer can also be selected as an all-rounder after impressing in IPL 2021 along with rising fast bowler Umran Malik, who has garnered limelight with his pace. The squad for the New Zealand T20I series is likely to be announced by the end of this week. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against New Zealand at home in November.

Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report

<p>India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after going down to Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). After having lost to Pakistan in their opening fixture, by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led side were expected to comeback in style and beat the Kiwis. However, India are now on the brink of elimination after losing two consecutive ties by big margins.</p>

<p>After the encounter, Jasprit Bumrah came for the post-match press conference from Team India. While Kohli had come out for the post-match presser after India were thrashed by Pakistan, the 32-year-old chose to skip the post-match meeting after the New Zealand game as Bumrah answered the questions. While the speedster was firm in his replies, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin feels head coach Ravi Shastri should've come for the post-match press conference, if not Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910"><strong>You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</strong></a></p>

<p>"In my view the coach should have come for the press conference. If Virat Kohli doesn't want to attend the press conference, that's fine. But, Ravi (Shastri) bhai should've attended the press conference," Azharuddin said during a discussion on ABP News.</p>

<p>"You can't just attend press conferences after victories, you must give an explanation for defeats too. Sending Bumrah for the press conference was not right. Either the captain or the coach should have come for the presser or someone from the coaching staff," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089"><strong>Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>"If you lose a game or two, there's nothing to be ashamed of. But the captain or the coach must come and explain to the nation why the team lost. How can you expect Bumrah to answer these questions? If you are ready to face the media when the team wins then you should also step forward when your team is going through a rough phase," Azharuddin asserted.</p>

<p>India have their back against the wall in the T20 WC. They need to win their remaining games by big margins and hope for some other results to favour them in order to enter the semi-finals. The Men in Blue will now face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi and another defeat will end their campaign in the marquee tournament.</p>

<p>India's group, i.e. Pool B, is topped by Pakistan, who are followed by Afghanistan, New Zealand, Namibia. Kohli &amp; Co. and Scotland occupy the bottom-two spots, respectively.</p>


India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after going down to Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after going down to Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). After having lost to Pakistan in their opening fixture, by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led side were expected to comeback in style and beat the Kiwis. However, India are now on the brink of elimination after losing two consecutive ties by big margins. After the encounter, Jasprit Bumrah came for the post-match press conference from Team India. While Kohli had come out for the post-match presser after India were thrashed by Pakistan, the 32-year-old chose to skip the post-match meeting after the New Zealand game as Bumrah answered the questions. While the speedster was firm in his replies, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin feels head coach Ravi Shastri should've come for the post-match press conference, if not Kohli. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss "In my view the coach should have come for the press conference. If Virat Kohli doesn't want to attend the press conference, that's fine. But, Ravi (Shastri) bhai should've attended the press conference," Azharuddin said during a discussion on ABP News. "You can't just attend press conferences after victories, you must give an explanation for defeats too. Sending Bumrah for the press conference was not right. Either the captain or the coach should have come for the presser or someone from the coaching staff," he added. ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC "If you lose a game or two, there's nothing to be ashamed of. But the captain or the coach must come and explain to the nation why the team lost. How can you expect Bumrah to answer these questions? If you are ready to face the media when the team wins then you should also step forward when your team is going through a rough phase," Azharuddin asserted. India have their back against the wall in the T20 WC. They need to win their remaining games by big margins and hope for some other results to favour them in order to enter the semi-finals. The Men in Blue will now face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi and another defeat will end their campaign in the marquee tournament. India's group, i.e. Pool B, is topped by Pakistan, who are followed by Afghanistan, New Zealand, Namibia. Kohli & Co. and Scotland occupy the bottom-two spots, respectively.

Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC

<p>Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four.</p>

<p>As of now, the fight for the last four looks very much like a lost battle for the one-time winners. Ahead of their must-win clash versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made heads turn with his views on Captain Kohli.</p>

<p>Speaking on India's debacle in the T20 WC, Kaneria said on his Youtube channel, "There are a lot of reasons. The first one is Virat Kohli - he has been an unsuccessful captain. He made wrong team selections for the WTC final. Until he was there in Australia, India lost and then Ajinkya Rahane became the captain and led his team to a win. No doubt Virat Kohli is a big player but I have never seen captaincy potential in him. He has a lot of aggression but the decision-making ability as a captain is missing in him."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048"><strong>Shoaib Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</strong></a></p>

<p>"Another reason is Ravi Shastri who has just disappeared. It seems as though he feels 'My time is up, the World Cup is the last in my tenure. I won't be there post this. So whatever happens let it happen' and he too has stepped aside. I won't blame MS Dhoni too much since he has just come into the side. Yet, he was part of the management and cricket involves all the 11 players as well as the management. So everybody is responsible. It's not an individual sport but a team sport so the entire team is responsible."</p>

<p>"I cannot understand this conflict - Virat Kohli opens for RCB and stated that he will open in the World Cup as well. Once the World Cup comes closer he says that there aren't better openers than KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma and they will open. Then where did Ishan Kishan come from during the New Zealand game? No doubt Rohit Sharma is the vice-captain but they ended up feeling that Trent Boult is ahead of him so they should try something different. They would be assuming that Rohit and Rahul will come out to open so if we sent Ishan Kishan to open their plans would flop,"&nbsp;added Kaneria.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-didnt-trust-rohit-sharma-against-trent-boult-sunil-gavaskar-baffled-by-hitmans-demotion-vs-nz-425962"><strong>'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ</strong></a></p>

<p>With back-to-back defeats, Kohli is under serious pressure to keep India alive in the T20 WC. The national side lost their opening fixture to Pakistan by 10 wickets and were hammered by New Zealand, by 8 wickets, as they will now step on the field to take on a competitive Afghanistan line-up, who have two wins from three games and also boost of a healthy net run-rate.</p>

<p>Another loss will end India's campaign in the T20 WC, which will be Kohli's last tournament as the Men in Blue's T20I captain.</p>


Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four. As of now, the fight for the last four looks very much like a lost battle for the one-time winners. Ahead of their must-win clash versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made heads turn with his views on Captain Kohli. Speaking on India's debacle in the T20 WC, Kaneria said on his Youtube channel, "There are a lot of reasons. The first one is Virat Kohli - he has been an unsuccessful captain. He made wrong team selections for the WTC final. Until he was there in Australia, India lost and then Ajinkya Rahane became the captain and led his team to a win. No doubt Virat Kohli is a big player but I have never seen captaincy potential in him. He has a lot of aggression but the decision-making ability as a captain is missing in him." ALSO READ | Shoaib Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against "Another reason is Ravi Shastri who has just disappeared. It seems as though he feels 'My time is up, the World Cup is the last in my tenure. I won't be there post this. So whatever happens let it happen' and he too has stepped aside. I won't blame MS Dhoni too much since he has just come into the side. Yet, he was part of the management and cricket involves all the 11 players as well as the management. So everybody is responsible. It's not an individual sport but a team sport so the entire team is responsible." "I cannot understand this conflict - Virat Kohli opens for RCB and stated that he will open in the World Cup as well. Once the World Cup comes closer he says that there aren't better openers than KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma and they will open. Then where did Ishan Kishan come from during the New Zealand game? No doubt Rohit Sharma is the vice-captain but they ended up feeling that Trent Boult is ahead of him so they should try something different. They would be assuming that Rohit and Rahul will come out to open so if we sent Ishan Kishan to open their plans would flop," added Kaneria. ALSO READ | 'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ With back-to-back defeats, Kohli is under serious pressure to keep India alive in the T20 WC. The national side lost their opening fixture to Pakistan by 10 wickets and were hammered by New Zealand, by 8 wickets, as they will now step on the field to take on a competitive Afghanistan line-up, who have two wins from three games and also boost of a healthy net run-rate. Another loss will end India's campaign in the T20 WC, which will be Kohli's last tournament as the Men in Blue's T20I captain.

Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC

<p>Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race.</p>

<p>However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare.</p>

<p>With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli &amp; Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-biggest-match-winner-aakash-chopra-slams-virat-kohli-led-india-for-rohit-sharmas-demotion-425944"><strong>'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar&nbsp;said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-time-bcci-looks-into-scheduling-former-india-captain-comes-in-support-of-underfire-virat-kohli-co-425931"><strong>High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli &amp; Co.</strong></a></p>

<p>"I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off.</p>

<p>India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.</p>


Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co.

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race. However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli & Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. ALSO READ | 'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult." "If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added. ALSO READ | High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli & Co. "I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off. India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.

'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ

<p>India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare.</p>

<p>While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929"><strong>India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified."</p>

<p>"This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910"><strong>You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</strong></a></p>

<p>After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.</p>


India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare. While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli & Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps. ALSO READ | India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified." "This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue. So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion

T20 World Cup: Here's what went wrong as India lost crucial match against New Zealand

<p>After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.</p>

<p>India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli &amp; Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai.</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have&nbsp;only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during&nbsp;the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa.</p>

<p>After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804"><strong>'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a></p>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1454858664075046914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2021-prediction-who-will-win-todays-match-between-england-and-sri-lanka-425830"><strong>ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka?</strong></a></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won."</p>

<p>India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.</p>


After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event. India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli & Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai. Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup." ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka? At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won." India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.

Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC

<p>After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12.</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first, nothing clicked for India as they managed a below-par 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand sailed past the Men in Blue by 8 wickets courtesy vital knocks from Daryl Mitchell and Captain Williamson. With another defeat, the one-time winners India are almost on the verge of being eliminated from the marquee tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With several experts and former cricketers questioning India's poor run and their tactics, Jasprit Bumrah pointed out that the bubble-life has taken a toll on the Indian cricketers. In their defence, Team India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021 and have played regular cricket since then. To move from one bio-bubble to the other isn't easy by any means and it has started to affect the players.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787"><strong>54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show against NZ</strong></a></p>

<p>Bumrah told reporters post India's thrashing versus New Zealand, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role.</p>

<p>"The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ</a></strong></p>

<p>India need a miracle now to progress to the semi-finals from Pool B. At present, Pakistan look certain to top the group whereas the fight for the second spot is between the Black Caps and Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan.</p>


After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12.

After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12. Being asked to bat first, nothing clicked for India as they managed a below-par 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand sailed past the Men in Blue by 8 wickets courtesy vital knocks from Daryl Mitchell and Captain Williamson. With another defeat, the one-time winners India are almost on the verge of being eliminated from the marquee tournament. With several experts and former cricketers questioning India's poor run and their tactics, Jasprit Bumrah pointed out that the bubble-life has taken a toll on the Indian cricketers. In their defence, Team India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021 and have played regular cricket since then. To move from one bio-bubble to the other isn't easy by any means and it has started to affect the players. ALSO READ | 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ Bumrah told reporters post India's thrashing versus New Zealand, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role. "The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in." ALSO READ | 'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ India need a miracle now to progress to the semi-finals from Pool B. At present, Pakistan look certain to top the group whereas the fight for the second spot is between the Black Caps and Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan.

'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar criticised India's game plan against New Zealand as he was left disappointed by Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s timid show in their 8-wicket defeat in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). India's batting line-up was left exposed once again while the bowlers failed to deliver as a unit.</p>

<p>After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan in their opening game of the Super 12, India were expected to dish out a better performance against New Zealand but were completely outclassed by the Kiwis. Invited to bat first, India could only manage a paltry 110 runs on the board in their quota of 20 overs after the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli failed to deliver.</p>

<p>The move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener and demote Rohit at no. 3 raised many eyebrows and was questioned by many including Akhtar, who said he didn't know what mindset and attitude were India playing with against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After restricting India on 110 runs, New Zealand comfortably chased down the target in 14.3 overs and registered their first win in the tournament. Speaking on his YouTube channel while analysing India's loss, Akhtar questioned India's game plan and the decisions to open with Ishan and bowling Hardik Pandya last in the game among others.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-serious-introspection-virender-sehwag-disappointed-as-nz-virtually-knock-india-out-of-t20-wc-2021-425745">Time for serious introspection: Sehwag disappointed as NZ virtually knock India out of T20 WC 2021</a></p>

<p>"I don't know with what mindset and attitude they were playing. Why did Rohit bat at 3, why did they open with Ishan Kishan? Hardik Pandya, bowling pretty late in the innings, should've bowled earlier. I have no idea whatsoever about India's gameplan. It was a completely lost Indian squad," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

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<p>"It never seemed as if India turned up for this game or not. Average performance by team India. After all the hype and pressure from the Indian media, I knew that the team would struggle. Again, the team proved to be a weak bowling side," the former Pakistan pacer added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-lack-mental-toughness-for-big-matches-gautam-gambhir-slams-virat-kohli-co-after-nz-debacle-425752">India lack mental toughness for big matches: Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli &amp; Co. after NZ debacle</a></p>

<p>While the defeat has done significant damage to India's hope for finishing in the top four, they still stand a outside chance depending on the results of the other teams if they can manage to win their remaining three matches by big margins. India will next face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 03).</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar criticised India's game plan against New Zealand as he was left disappointed by Virat Kohli & Co.'s timid show in their 8-wicket defeat in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31).

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar criticised India's game plan against New Zealand as he was left disappointed by Virat Kohli & Co.'s timid show in their 8-wicket defeat in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). India's batting line-up was left exposed once again while the bowlers failed to deliver as a unit. After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan in their opening game of the Super 12, India were expected to dish out a better performance against New Zealand but were completely outclassed by the Kiwis. Invited to bat first, India could only manage a paltry 110 runs on the board in their quota of 20 overs after the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli failed to deliver. The move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener and demote Rohit at no. 3 raised many eyebrows and was questioned by many including Akhtar, who said he didn't know what mindset and attitude were India playing with against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. After restricting India on 110 runs, New Zealand comfortably chased down the target in 14.3 overs and registered their first win in the tournament. Speaking on his YouTube channel while analysing India's loss, Akhtar questioned India's game plan and the decisions to open with Ishan and bowling Hardik Pandya last in the game among others. Also Read: Time for serious introspection: Sehwag disappointed as NZ virtually knock India out of T20 WC 2021 "I don't know with what mindset and attitude they were playing. Why did Rohit bat at 3, why did they open with Ishan Kishan? Hardik Pandya, bowling pretty late in the innings, should've bowled earlier. I have no idea whatsoever about India's gameplan. It was a completely lost Indian squad," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel. × "It never seemed as if India turned up for this game or not. Average performance by team India. After all the hype and pressure from the Indian media, I knew that the team would struggle. Again, the team proved to be a weak bowling side," the former Pakistan pacer added. Also Read: India lack mental toughness for big matches: Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli & Co. after NZ debacle While the defeat has done significant damage to India's hope for finishing in the top four, they still stand a outside chance depending on the results of the other teams if they can manage to win their remaining three matches by big margins. India will next face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 03).

'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI. Kohli was left stumped by the question and told the reporter it was a very 'brave' question.</p>

<p>"Do you think its a mistake to not play Ishan Kishan and he could have done better than Rohit Sharma?" - the journalist asked Kohli after India's loss against Pakistan. Kohli burst into laughter on hearing the question and replied - "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." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am just asking. I am not going to comment," the reporter responded.</p>

<p>"Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 internationals? You will drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game that we played? Yeah? Unbelievable. If you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," Kohli then said while laughing.</p>

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<p>The video of the incident had gone viral on social media with many criticising the reporter for his question. But days after Kohli laughed off his question, the reporter's prediction came partially true on Sunday (October 31) as India locked horns with New Zealand in their second Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-ridiculous-virat-kohli-says-too-long-a-break-as-india-take-on-nz-after-seven-days-in-t20-wc-2021-425628">&nbsp;'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021</a></p>

<p>While Rohit was not dropped from the playing XI, he was replaced by young Kishan as an opener. Many were expecting KL Rahul to be demoted after captain Kohli confirmed during the toss that Kishan will open the innings after replacing an injured Suryakumar Yadav in the XI.</p>

<p>However, that was not the case as Kishan opened the batting with KL Rahul against the Black Caps. The move didn't work in India's favour as the young left-hander was dismissed after scoring just 4 runs of 8 balls and failed to make an impact.</p>

<p>India got off to a disatrous start in the must-win game against New Zealand as they lost Kishan cheaply on 4 before Rahul was dismissed after scoring 18 off 16 balls. Rohit, who came out to bat at no.3, was dropped on the very first ball he faced but survived after Adam Milne spilled a seatet to hand him a lifeline.</p>

<p>The Hitman was sent packing by Ish Shodi after scoring on;y 14 runs of 14 balls before the spinner got rid of skipper Kohli on 9 off 17 balls as were reduced to 48/4 inside the first eleven overs.</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI. Kohli was left stumped by the question and told the reporter it was a very 'brave' question. "Do you think its a mistake to not play Ishan Kishan and he could have done better than Rohit Sharma?" - the journalist asked Kohli after India's loss against Pakistan. Kohli burst into laughter on hearing the question and replied - "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." "I am just asking. I am not going to comment," the reporter responded. "Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 internationals? You will drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game that we played? Yeah? Unbelievable. If you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," Kohli then said while laughing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × The video of the incident had gone viral on social media with many criticising the reporter for his question. But days after Kohli laughed off his question, the reporter's prediction came partially true on Sunday (October 31) as India locked horns with New Zealand in their second Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup 2021. Also Read: 'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021 While Rohit was not dropped from the playing XI, he was replaced by young Kishan as an opener. Many were expecting KL Rahul to be demoted after captain Kohli confirmed during the toss that Kishan will open the innings after replacing an injured Suryakumar Yadav in the XI. However, that was not the case as Kishan opened the batting with KL Rahul against the Black Caps. The move didn't work in India's favour as the young left-hander was dismissed after scoring just 4 runs of 8 balls and failed to make an impact. India got off to a disatrous start in the must-win game against New Zealand as they lost Kishan cheaply on 4 before Rahul was dismissed after scoring 18 off 16 balls. Rohit, who came out to bat at no.3, was dropped on the very first ball he faced but survived after Adam Milne spilled a seatet to hand him a lifeline. The Hitman was sent packing by Ish Shodi after scoring on;y 14 runs of 14 balls before the spinner got rid of skipper Kohli on 9 off 17 balls as were reduced to 48/4 inside the first eleven overs.

Days after Virat Kohli getting tetchy with journalist, Ishan replaces Rohit as opener against NZ in T20 WC

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long. However, he also added that the team has recovered well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India played their campaign opener against Pakistan on October 24, which they lost by 10 wickets and during the toss of their second match against New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), Virat addressed the long break.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During toss, Virat said, "It's ridiculous, we are playing twice in 10 days. Too long a break, but yeah, the guys have recovered well. Had good practice sessions, are itching to go out on the field, which is a good thing. When you have so many days off you want to get on the park and get into the groove."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-vaughan-names-only-team-which-can-stop-destructive-england-in-t20-world-cup-2021-425604">Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Virat also said that the game is another opportunity to come out and correct the mistakes and solidify India's position in the showpiece event, which is underway in UAE and Oman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the match, New Zealand opted to bowl against India in an all-important Super 12 match. India made two changes to their playing XI with Ishan Kishan coming in place of Suryakumar Yadav, who is suffering from back spasms while out-of-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar made way for all-rounder Shardul Thakur.</p>

<p>For New Zealand, pacer Adam Milne replaced keeper Tim Seifert with Devon Conway set to don big gloves. Virat also said, "We need a solid start and have wickets in hand to get those extra 20-25 runs are the learnings from the last game."</p>

<p>"We do have the bowling line-up to take wickets, but when you don't have runs on the board one partnership can take the game away from you. We understand that and plans are there to get those extra runs," he added.&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidEzIUPmVr7D7U" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-shahzad-becomes-first-afghanistan-player-to-reach-2000-t20i-runs-425609">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Shahzad becomes first Afghanistan player to reach 2000 T20I runs</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kane Williamson has won the toss and elected to field 🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j">https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j</a> <a href="https://t.co/aMZFGrCSba">pic.twitter.com/aMZFGrCSba</a></p>
— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup/status/1454804200232087558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Playing XI:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>India</strong>: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah</p>

<p><strong>New Zealand</strong>: Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson(c), James Neesham, Devon Conway(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult</p>


Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long.

Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long. However, he also added that the team has recovered well. India played their campaign opener against Pakistan on October 24, which they lost by 10 wickets and during the toss of their second match against New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), Virat addressed the long break. During toss, Virat said, "It's ridiculous, we are playing twice in 10 days. Too long a break, but yeah, the guys have recovered well. Had good practice sessions, are itching to go out on the field, which is a good thing. When you have so many days off you want to get on the park and get into the groove." ALSO READ | Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021 Virat also said that the game is another opportunity to come out and correct the mistakes and solidify India's position in the showpiece event, which is underway in UAE and Oman. In the match, New Zealand opted to bowl against India in an all-important Super 12 match. India made two changes to their playing XI with Ishan Kishan coming in place of Suryakumar Yadav, who is suffering from back spasms while out-of-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar made way for all-rounder Shardul Thakur. For New Zealand, pacer Adam Milne replaced keeper Tim Seifert with Devon Conway set to don big gloves. Virat also said, "We need a solid start and have wickets in hand to get those extra 20-25 runs are the learnings from the last game." "We do have the bowling line-up to take wickets, but when you don't have runs on the board one partnership can take the game away from you. We understand that and plans are there to get those extra runs," he added. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Shahzad becomes first Afghanistan player to reach 2000 T20I runs Kane Williamson has won the toss and elected to field 🏏 #T20WorldCup | #INDvNZ | https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j pic.twitter.com/aMZFGrCSba — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) October 31, 2021 × Playing XI: India: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson(c), James Neesham, Devon Conway(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult

'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021

<p>The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya of the Mumbai Indians might not get retained by his current franchise as he is likely to be sent back into the Indian Premier League auction pool, media reports have suggested. The five-time champions will have to make some difficult choices to make in the upcoming mega auction that is likely to happen in December. A recent report has also suggested that teams will be able to retain a maximum of four players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the addition of two new teams — Lucknow and Ahmedabad — the narratives of the tournament has been changed. The two new franchises reportedly can acquire three players from the rest of the player pool before the 2022 auction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-be-retained-by-srh-david-warner-looking-for-fresh-start-to-put-his-name-in-ipl-2022-auction-424812">'Won’t be retained by SRH' - David Warner looking for 'fresh start', to put his name in IPL 2022 auction</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, talking about the Mumbai Indians team, the news is not good if reports are to be believed as it has been stated that MI will not retain him. As per the report, the top three players who will be retained are skipper Rohit Sharma, India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh and West Indies star Kieron Pollard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think BCCI will have three-player retention formula with one Right to Match card. If RTM is not there, there could be four retention," PTI reported citing a senior IPL official, who is tracking the retention market of franchises. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rohit Sharma and India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh are automatic picks. Kieron Pollard will be third retention. MI's strength is their continuity as these three are pillars of MI," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-ajay-jadeja-disappointed-with-kohlis-remarks-post-pakistan-clash-says-it-shows-indias-approach-424768">T20 WC: Ajay Jadeja 'disappointed' with Kohli's remarks post Pakistan clash, says 'It shows India's approach'</a></strong></p>

<p>"At this point in time, there is less than 10 per cent chance that Hardik will be retained by MI. Yes, he might just outperform everybody in the next few T20 World Cup games but even then, chances are dim. If there are four retention or 1 RTM, then Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan are the contenders for that slot," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces the successful bidders for two new Indian Premier League Franchises<br />
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More Details 🔽<a href="https://t.co/FSU4LsAxzj">https://t.co/FSU4LsAxzj</a></p>
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<p>Hardik might still be picked by MI from the auction if he comes within the budget earmarked for him. "Yes, obviously there is a market dynamics and if required MI will pick him from the auction, provided he fits within a specific budget. In order of preference, the first five MI players are Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan," the IPL insider stated.&nbsp;</p>


The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya of the Mumbai Indians might not get retained by his current franchise as he is likely to be sent back into the Indian Premier League auction pool, media reports have suggested.

The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya of the Mumbai Indians might not get retained by his current franchise as he is likely to be sent back into the Indian Premier League auction pool, media reports have suggested. The five-time champions will have to make some difficult choices to make in the upcoming mega auction that is likely to happen in December. A recent report has also suggested that teams will be able to retain a maximum of four players. After the addition of two new teams — Lucknow and Ahmedabad — the narratives of the tournament has been changed. The two new franchises reportedly can acquire three players from the rest of the player pool before the 2022 auction. ALSO READ | 'Won’t be retained by SRH' - David Warner looking for 'fresh start', to put his name in IPL 2022 auction Now, talking about the Mumbai Indians team, the news is not good if reports are to be believed as it has been stated that MI will not retain him. As per the report, the top three players who will be retained are skipper Rohit Sharma, India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh and West Indies star Kieron Pollard. "I think BCCI will have three-player retention formula with one Right to Match card. If RTM is not there, there could be four retention," PTI reported citing a senior IPL official, who is tracking the retention market of franchises. "Rohit Sharma and India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh are automatic picks. Kieron Pollard will be third retention. MI's strength is their continuity as these three are pillars of MI," the official added. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Ajay Jadeja 'disappointed' with Kohli's remarks post Pakistan clash, says 'It shows India's approach' "At this point in time, there is less than 10 per cent chance that Hardik will be retained by MI. Yes, he might just outperform everybody in the next few T20 World Cup games but even then, chances are dim. If there are four retention or 1 RTM, then Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan are the contenders for that slot," the official added. 🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces the successful bidders for two new Indian Premier League Franchises More Details 🔽https://t.co/FSU4LsAxzj — BCCI (@BCCI) October 25, 2021 × Hardik might still be picked by MI from the auction if he comes within the budget earmarked for him. "Yes, obviously there is a market dynamics and if required MI will pick him from the auction, provided he fits within a specific budget. In order of preference, the first five MI players are Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan," the IPL insider stated.

IPL auction: Hardik Pandya unlikely to be retained by Mumbai Indians - Reports

<p>On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24.</p>

<p>Pakistani cricketers were spotted conversing with former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is now Team India's consultant, just after the match finished.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan team players having a chat with MS Dhoni after the match ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlR2NCUYo9">pic.twitter.com/rlR2NCUYo9</a></p>
— DHONI Trends™ 🏆 (@TrendsDhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrendsDhoni/status/1452331614839652372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also, despite a devastating setback in Team India's T20 World Cup opener, skipper Virat Kohli remained composed and demonstrated the "Spirit of Cricket" in his post-match interactions with the opposition.</p>

<p>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a snapshot of Kohli chatting with Rizwan Azam on social media with the message "Spirit of Cricket! #WeHaveWeWill."&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pakistani players also snapped photographs with Dhoni, who is the first captain in white-ball cricket history to win all three ICC titles.</p>

<p>Several photographs of Dhoni talking with the players were shared on social media.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fanboy moment of Young Pakistan Bowler Shahnawaz Dahani ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sx4oZS3k4P">pic.twitter.com/Sx4oZS3k4P</a></p>
— Dhoni Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) <a href="https://twitter.com/DhoniArmyTN/status/1452332731942248462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/t20-world-cup-pakistan-beat-india-by-10-wickets-john-buchanan-gives-insight-423684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007, when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final.</p>

<p>Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24.

On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24. Pakistani cricketers were spotted conversing with former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is now Team India's consultant, just after the match finished. Pakistan team players having a chat with MS Dhoni after the match ❤️@MSDhoni | #MSDhoni | #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/rlR2NCUYo9 — DHONI Trends™ 🏆 (@TrendsDhoni) October 24, 2021 × Also, despite a devastating setback in Team India's T20 World Cup opener, skipper Virat Kohli remained composed and demonstrated the "Spirit of Cricket" in his post-match interactions with the opposition. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a snapshot of Kohli chatting with Rizwan Azam on social media with the message "Spirit of Cricket! #WeHaveWeWill." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb) × Pakistani players also snapped photographs with Dhoni, who is the first captain in white-ball cricket history to win all three ICC titles. Several photographs of Dhoni talking with the players were shared on social media. Fanboy moment of Young Pakistan Bowler Shahnawaz Dahani ❤#TeamIndia | @MSDhoni | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/Sx4oZS3k4P — Dhoni Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) October 24, 2021 × It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin. Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007, when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final. Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition. (With inputs from agencies)

Heartwarming gesture: Pakistani players chat with Dhoni and Kohli after the match, take selfies

<p>Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan's comments come after India's crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game on Sunday (October 24).</p>

<p>Indian openers Rohit (0) and KL Rahul (3) failed to deliver as a top-order collapse saw India post a moderate total of 151 runs on the board against Pakistan in Dubai. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably with the help of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten fifties to register a comprehensive win by ten wickets.</p>

<p>The opening partnership of Rohit and Rahul lasted only four deliveries as Rohit was the first one to depart in the very first over bowled by Shaheen Afridi, who later got rid of Rahul in his second over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have been saying for a long time, it's high time, Ishan Kishan needs to get a game. He should open with Rohit Sharma, Kohli comes in at No.3 and KL can bat at 4. This will be a very, very solid batting lineup till No.4," Harbhajan was quoted as saying by<em> India Today</em>.</p>

<p>All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is unlikely to bowl and is currently nursing an injury suffered during the Pakistan game, might sit out in the next encounter against New Zealand. Harbhajan believes Shardul Thakur should be roped in if Hardik is not fit and Rahul should be asked to bat at no.4.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-still-want-a-walkover-shoaib-akhtar-taunts-harbhajan-singh-after-pakistan-beat-india-in-t20-wc-423900">'Do you still want a walkover?': Shoaib Akhtar taunts Harbhajan Singh after Pakistan beat India in T20 WC</a></p>

<p>Harbhajan wants Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant to bat at no. 5 and six respectively with Ravindra Jadeja coming in at no.7 in case of Hardik's absence.</p>

<p>"At No.5, Rishabh Pant can come and at six, Hardik if he is available. If he is ok I would still playing because he is a match-winner for team India. If he is not fit then Suryakumar Yadav plays at No.5, Rishabh at six and (Ravindra) Jadeja at seven. At No.8, Shardul Thakur. He can bat, bowl and field, he has been performing really well. He just won a championship with CSK, riding high on confidence and we should look to utilise his confidence. Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy and Shami will be the next three," said Harbhajan.</p>

<p>India will next take on New Zealand in their second game of the league stage on October 31 and will be hoping to bounce back to winnings ways against the Kiwis.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma.

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan's comments come after India's crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game on Sunday (October 24). Indian openers Rohit (0) and KL Rahul (3) failed to deliver as a top-order collapse saw India post a moderate total of 151 runs on the board against Pakistan in Dubai. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably with the help of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten fifties to register a comprehensive win by ten wickets. The opening partnership of Rohit and Rahul lasted only four deliveries as Rohit was the first one to depart in the very first over bowled by Shaheen Afridi, who later got rid of Rahul in his second over. "I have been saying for a long time, it's high time, Ishan Kishan needs to get a game. He should open with Rohit Sharma, Kohli comes in at No.3 and KL can bat at 4. This will be a very, very solid batting lineup till No.4," Harbhajan was quoted as saying by India Today. All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is unlikely to bowl and is currently nursing an injury suffered during the Pakistan game, might sit out in the next encounter against New Zealand. Harbhajan believes Shardul Thakur should be roped in if Hardik is not fit and Rahul should be asked to bat at no.4. Also Read: 'Do you still want a walkover?': Shoaib Akhtar taunts Harbhajan Singh after Pakistan beat India in T20 WC Harbhajan wants Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant to bat at no. 5 and six respectively with Ravindra Jadeja coming in at no.7 in case of Hardik's absence. "At No.5, Rishabh Pant can come and at six, Hardik if he is available. If he is ok I would still playing because he is a match-winner for team India. If he is not fit then Suryakumar Yadav plays at No.5, Rishabh at six and (Ravindra) Jadeja at seven. At No.8, Shardul Thakur. He can bat, bowl and field, he has been performing really well. He just won a championship with CSK, riding high on confidence and we should look to utilise his confidence. Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy and Shami will be the next three," said Harbhajan. India will next take on New Zealand in their second game of the league stage on October 31 and will be hoping to bounce back to winnings ways against the Kiwis.

T20 WC 2021: High time Ishan Kishan got a game, should open with Rohit Sharma - Harbhajan Singh

<p>After an outstanding performance by Pakistan's opening pair <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/highlights-babar-rizwan-guide-pakistan-to-historic-maiden-win-against-india-in-world-cup-contest-423513">Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan</a>, Pakistan handed India an embarrassing defeat by 10 wickets in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 24) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Babar and Rizwan hit half-centuries as Pakistan registered their first-ever win over their arch-rivals at a Twenty20 World Cup. Chasing 152 for victory, Babar, who hit 68, and Rizwan, with 79, took apart India's bowlers as Pakistan reached their target with 13 balls to spare.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/credit-where-its-due-pak-outplayed-us-virat-kohli-on-indias-massive-t20-wc-loss-shares-message-for-fans-423677">Credit where it's due, PAK outplayed us: Virat Kohli on India's massive T20 WC loss, shares message for fans</a></strong></p>

<p>Left-arm quick Shaheen Shah Afridi set up victory — their first over India in six attempts in the tournament — with figures of 3-31 that kept their opponents to 151-7 despite a valiant 57 from skipper Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli, who never let "outside talks" get under his skin, looked irritated on a reporter's questions. After the match, Kohli was addressing the press when he was asked if young batter Ishan Kishan could have been better and played instead of Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-achieves-staggering-milestone-with-brilliant-fifty-against-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-2021-clash-423652"><strong>Virat Kohli achieves staggering milestone with brilliant fifty against Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021 clash</strong></a></p>

<p>With a frown on his face, Virat Kohli replied, "It's a very brave question. I played the team that I thought was the best, what is your opinion? Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20&nbsp;Internationals?"</p>

<p>"Do you know what he did in the last game that he played?" Virat further asked slamming the&nbsp; "unbelievable" question.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Covering his face with his hand in utter shock by the line of questioning, Virat sarcastically said, "If you want controversy, tell me before, so I can answer accordingly."</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Droping rohit for ishan..??<br />
Look at Virat Reply. 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/fwJtvxOpYc">pic.twitter.com/fwJtvxOpYc</a></p>
— Rahul tanwar (@rahultanwar_09) <a href="https://twitter.com/rahultanwar_09/status/1452335019507306500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>During the post-match presentation,&nbsp;Kohli said,&nbsp;"We didn't execute properly. Credit where it's due and Pakistan outplayed us today. They started brilliantly with the ball, and 3 wickets for 20 runs was not a good start. We needed wickets early but with the bat they gave us absolutely no chances."</p>

<p>"We could make the argument of getting in another slower bowler, but it's important to stay composed and understand our strengths, because with the dew the slower bowlers couldn't be effective either. This is just the first game of the tournament, not the last."</p>


After an outstanding performance by Pakistan's opening pair Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan handed India an embarrassing defeat by 10 wickets in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 24) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

After an outstanding performance by Pakistan's opening pair Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan handed India an embarrassing defeat by 10 wickets in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 24) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Babar and Rizwan hit half-centuries as Pakistan registered their first-ever win over their arch-rivals at a Twenty20 World Cup. Chasing 152 for victory, Babar, who hit 68, and Rizwan, with 79, took apart India's bowlers as Pakistan reached their target with 13 balls to spare. ALSO READ | Credit where it's due, PAK outplayed us: Virat Kohli on India's massive T20 WC loss, shares message for fans Left-arm quick Shaheen Shah Afridi set up victory — their first over India in six attempts in the tournament — with figures of 3-31 that kept their opponents to 151-7 despite a valiant 57 from skipper Virat Kohli. Kohli, who never let "outside talks" get under his skin, looked irritated on a reporter's questions. After the match, Kohli was addressing the press when he was asked if young batter Ishan Kishan could have been better and played instead of Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli achieves staggering milestone with brilliant fifty against Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021 clash With a frown on his face, Virat Kohli replied, "It's a very brave question. I played the team that I thought was the best, what is your opinion? Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 Internationals?" "Do you know what he did in the last game that he played?" Virat further asked slamming the "unbelievable" question. Covering his face with his hand in utter shock by the line of questioning, Virat sarcastically said, "If you want controversy, tell me before, so I can answer accordingly." Watch the video here: Droping rohit for ishan..?? Look at Virat Reply. 😂 #INDvPAK #Kohli #T20WorldCup #TeamIndia #Cricket pic.twitter.com/fwJtvxOpYc — Rahul tanwar (@rahultanwar_09) October 24, 2021 × During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "We didn't execute properly. Credit where it's due and Pakistan outplayed us today. They started brilliantly with the ball, and 3 wickets for 20 runs was not a good start. We needed wickets early but with the bat they gave us absolutely no chances." "We could make the argument of getting in another slower bowler, but it's important to stay composed and understand our strengths, because with the dew the slower bowlers couldn't be effective either. This is just the first game of the tournament, not the last."

Watch: Ishan for Rohit? Virat Kohli snaps at reporter's query after India's 10-wicket loss to Pakistan

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidhtX8hqUjluML" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Pakistan defeated Virat Kohli-led team India as captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan hit half-centuries to inspire their side for a stunning win in a World Cup showdown for the first time ever with a 10-wicket romp in a Super 12 blockbuster at the Twenty20 World Cup on Sunday. The loss was also India's first 10-wicket defeat in T20 cricket.</p>

<p>Babar (68) and Rizwan (79) helped Pakistan to take apart India's bowlers as they reached their target with 13 balls to spare in Dubai while chasing 152 for victory. Left-arm quick Shaheen Shah Afridi set up victory — their first over India in six attempts in the tournament — with figures of 3-31 that kept their opponents to 151-7 despite a valiant 57 from skipper Virat Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ishan-for-rohit-virat-kohli-snaps-at-reporters-query-after-indias-10-wicket-loss-to-pakistan-423686">Watch: Ishan for Rohit? Virat Kohli snaps at reporter's query after India's 10-wicket loss to Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>During an exclusive chat with&nbsp;<strong>WION's Digvijay Singh Deo</strong>, the two-time World Cup-winning coach John Buchanan opened up on India vs Pakistan clash. He said, "It's going to hurt, that's for sure. It's hammering. That's just a real comprehensive loss against a fantastic Pakistan."</p>

<p>"However, your first game in the tournament is always a little bit tricky. You are just not quite settled as a team, you are just not sure about a range of things. It's always nice to get the first game underway and ideally get away with a win but in this case, India haven't"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/credit-where-its-due-pak-outplayed-us-virat-kohli-on-indias-massive-t20-wc-loss-shares-message-for-fans-423677">Credit where it's due, PAK outplayed us: Virat Kohli on India's massive T20 WC loss, shares message for fans</a></strong></p>

<p>"I don't think there will be of long-term concern for India, I think it reflects on a range of this 'can I change the bowling line-up' also the batting. But I think there won't be too many changes on India's side. One of these games tends to reflect relatively quickly and just go back to what you were doing in the lead-up and in individual performance and prepare for the next game".</p>

<p><strong>Watch the full&nbsp;interview here:</strong></p>

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<p>India were completely outplayed as sent into bat, India were off to the worst possible start as they lost both their prolific openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul within three overs with just six runs on the board.</p>

<p>Kohli (57) and Pant (39) then joined forces to add 53 runs in quick time before the latter was caught out by leg-spinner Shadab Khan (1/22 in four overs) off his own bowling in the 13th over.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-skipper-babar-azam-says-t20-world-cup-wont-be-easier-just-because-pakistan-defeated-india-423689">Pakistan skipper Babar Azam says T20 World Cup won't be easier just because Pakistan defeated India</a></strong></p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Indian skipper Kohli said, "We didn't execute properly. Credit where it's due and Pakistan outplayed us today. They started brilliantly with the ball, and 3 wickets for 20 runs was not a good start. We needed wickets early but with the bat they gave us absolutely no chances."</p>

<p>"We could make the argument of getting in another slower bowler, but it's important to stay composed and understand our strengths, because with the dew the slower bowlers couldn't be effective either. This is just the first game of the tournament, not the last."</p>


Pakistan defeated Virat Kohli-led team India as captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan hit half-centuries to inspire their side for a stunning win in a World Cup showdown for the first time ever with a 10-wicket romp in a Super 12 blockbuster at the Twenty20 World Cup on Sunday.

Pakistan defeated Virat Kohli-led team India as captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan hit half-centuries to inspire their side for a stunning win in a World Cup showdown for the first time ever with a 10-wicket romp in a Super 12 blockbuster at the Twenty20 World Cup on Sunday. The loss was also India's first 10-wicket defeat in T20 cricket. Babar (68) and Rizwan (79) helped Pakistan to take apart India's bowlers as they reached their target with 13 balls to spare in Dubai while chasing 152 for victory. Left-arm quick Shaheen Shah Afridi set up victory — their first over India in six attempts in the tournament — with figures of 3-31 that kept their opponents to 151-7 despite a valiant 57 from skipper Virat Kohli. ALSO READ | Watch: Ishan for Rohit? Virat Kohli snaps at reporter's query after India's 10-wicket loss to Pakistan During an exclusive chat with WION's Digvijay Singh Deo, the two-time World Cup-winning coach John Buchanan opened up on India vs Pakistan clash. He said, "It's going to hurt, that's for sure. It's hammering. That's just a real comprehensive loss against a fantastic Pakistan." "However, your first game in the tournament is always a little bit tricky. You are just not quite settled as a team, you are just not sure about a range of things. It's always nice to get the first game underway and ideally get away with a win but in this case, India haven't" ALSO READ | Credit where it's due, PAK outplayed us: Virat Kohli on India's massive T20 WC loss, shares message for fans "I don't think there will be of long-term concern for India, I think it reflects on a range of this 'can I change the bowling line-up' also the batting. But I think there won't be too many changes on India's side. One of these games tends to reflect relatively quickly and just go back to what you were doing in the lead-up and in individual performance and prepare for the next game". Watch the full interview here: × India were completely outplayed as sent into bat, India were off to the worst possible start as they lost both their prolific openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul within three overs with just six runs on the board. Kohli (57) and Pant (39) then joined forces to add 53 runs in quick time before the latter was caught out by leg-spinner Shadab Khan (1/22 in four overs) off his own bowling in the 13th over. ALSO READ | Pakistan skipper Babar Azam says T20 World Cup won't be easier just because Pakistan defeated India During the post-match presentation, Indian skipper Kohli said, "We didn't execute properly. Credit where it's due and Pakistan outplayed us today. They started brilliantly with the ball, and 3 wickets for 20 runs was not a good start. We needed wickets early but with the bat they gave us absolutely no chances." "We could make the argument of getting in another slower bowler, but it's important to stay composed and understand our strengths, because with the dew the slower bowlers couldn't be effective either. This is just the first game of the tournament, not the last."

T20 World Cup: Exclusive! How India can bounce back? John Buchanan's take on Indo-Pak match

<p>After Pakistan won a T20I by 10 wickets for the first time, Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed made a strange remark on Monday, declaring that all Muslims throughout the world, including Indian Muslims, were backing his nation during the match.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartwarming-gesture-pakistani-players-chat-with-dhoni-and-kohli-after-the-match-take-selfies-423719"><strong>Also read | Heartwarming gesture: Pakistani players chat with Dhoni and Kohli after the match, take selfies</strong></a></p>

<p>"Pakistan's triumph against India is a victory of Islam. All Muslims throughout the world are rejoicing," he said in a video message on twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sheikh Rasheed describes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>’s victory against India in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> match as a "victory of Islam", and, he is a minister🤦🏻‍♀️<br />
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Comparing sports with religion.??<br />
<br />
Chill, congratulate your boys, it's just a cricket match that you've won after yrs🤚<a href="https://twitter.com/TarekFatah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TarekFatah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/kakar_harsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kakar_harsha</a> <a href="https://t.co/Apb7H4PAg1">pic.twitter.com/Apb7H4PAg1</a></p>
— Sajeda Akhtar (@Sajeda_Akhtar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sajeda_Akhtar/status/1452501962121908236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>This declaration follows Mohammad Rizwan and skipper Babar Azam's outstanding performance. At the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan defeated India by 10 wickets.</p>

<p>In his message to the national squad, Sheikh Rasheed stated that Pakistan's true T20 World Cup final was tonight versus India.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/t20-world-cup-pakistan-beat-india-by-10-wickets-john-buchanan-gives-insight-423684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Today's match has a different level of excitement than any previous match in the World Cup," he remarked, praying for Pakistan's triumph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin.</p>

<p>Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007 when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final.</p>

<p>Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After Pakistan won a T20I by 10 wickets for the first time, Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed made a strange remark on Monday, declaring that all Muslims throughout the world, including Indian Muslims, were backing his nation during the match.

After Pakistan won a T20I by 10 wickets for the first time, Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed made a strange remark on Monday, declaring that all Muslims throughout the world, including Indian Muslims, were backing his nation during the match. Also read | Heartwarming gesture: Pakistani players chat with Dhoni and Kohli after the match, take selfies "Pakistan's triumph against India is a victory of Islam. All Muslims throughout the world are rejoicing," he said in a video message on twitter. Sheikh Rasheed describes #Pakistan’s victory against India in the #T20WorldCup match as a "victory of Islam", and, he is a minister🤦🏻‍♀️ Comparing sports with religion.?? Chill, congratulate your boys, it's just a cricket match that you've won after yrs🤚@TarekFatah @kakar_harsha pic.twitter.com/Apb7H4PAg1 — Sajeda Akhtar (@Sajeda_Akhtar) October 25, 2021 × This declaration follows Mohammad Rizwan and skipper Babar Azam's outstanding performance. At the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan defeated India by 10 wickets. In his message to the national squad, Sheikh Rasheed stated that Pakistan's true T20 World Cup final was tonight versus India. Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight "Today's match has a different level of excitement than any previous match in the World Cup," he remarked, praying for Pakistan's triumph. It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin. Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007 when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final. Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Pakistan’s victory against India is the victory of Islam: Pakistan Minister Sheikh Rasheed

<p>T20 World Cup 2021 is&nbsp;the seventh edition of the tournament which is being staged in the UAE and Oman by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) this year. India are&nbsp;the designated hosts of the tournament but the tournament was moved to the UAE and Oman due to the COVID-19 situation in the country.</p>

<p>The inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup was played in 2007 with India becoming the first champions in the shortest format under the legendary MS Dhoni. The format has since become popular across the globe and has led to the birth of several T20 leagues across many countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>T20 World Cup remains one of the most talked-about events in world cricket and the tournament will be returning after a gap of five years this time around due to COVID-19. It was originally scheduled to take place last year but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. Two successive T20 World Cups will now be played in 2021 and 2022.</p>

<p>There are only six players who will be making their seventh appearance in a T20 World Cup this year having features in all of the previous editions of the tournament. Star batter Rohit Sharma is the only Indian player who has been part of the last six T20 World Cups and will be in action this year as well.</p>

<p><strong>Here is a look at all six players who have so far featured in all seven T20 World Cups:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Rohit Sharma&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>India's limited-overs vice-captain and star batter Rohit Sharma is the only player from the country to have features in all seven editions of the T20 World Cup so far. Rohit has 673 runs to his name in 28 matches in the T20 World Cup at an average of 39.58 and was a part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni in 2007.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-call-him-indias-inzamam-shoaib-akhtar-names-india-star-who-is-liked-more-than-virat-kohli-in-pakistan-422882">People call him India's Inzamam: Akhtar names India star who is liked more than Virat Kohli in Pakistan</a></p>

<p><strong>Dwayne Bravo</strong></p>

<p>West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has come out of international retirement to feature in the T20 World Cup 2021 this year. A legend of the shortest format of the game, Bravo has taken an impressive 25 wickets and scored 504 runs in just 29 matches in T20 World Cups. He will be playing his seventh T20 World Cup this year.</p>

<p><strong>Chris Gayle&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Universe Boss is the only second West Indies player to feature on the elite list. A T20 globetrotter, Gayle is one of the most explosive batters in the shortest format. Gayle has an excellent record in the T20 World Cup with a staggering 920 runs to his name at a strike rate of 146.73. He is a two-time T20 World Cup winner along with Bravo and will be gunning for his third title this year.</p>

<p><strong>Shakib Al Hasan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The legendary all-rounder is among the three Bangladesh players who feature in the list. Shakib has been one of the best players for Bangladesh across all formats and has dominated in T20Is. The former Bangladesh captain has played 28 matches in T20 World Cups so far, amassing 675 runs and picking up 39 wickets. He has been one of the most consistent all-rounders in the history of the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-surprised-sourav-ganguly-opens-up-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-step-down-as-indias-t20i-skipper-423213">&nbsp;</a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-surprised-sourav-ganguly-opens-up-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-step-down-as-indias-t20i-skipper-423213">‘I was surprised’ – Sourav Ganguly opens up on Virat Kohli's decision to step down as India's T20I skipper</a></p>

<p><strong>Mushfiqur Rahim</strong></p>

<p>Bangladesh's wicket-keeper batter Mushfiqur Rahim will also be making his seventh appearance in a T20 World Cup this year. Rahim, who made his international debut in 2006, has 307 runs to his name in 28 T20 World Cup matches. Rahim will be looking to help Bangladesh go the distance in the showpiece event this year.</p>

<p><strong>Mahmudullah&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah has also played all seven editions of the T20 World Cup so far. He will be leading the side this year and will be looking to help his side pull off some major upsets and qualify for the semi-finals. Mahmudullah has so far played 25 matches in T20 World Cups and has scored only 284 runs at an average of 16.70.</p>


T20 World Cup 2021 is the seventh edition of the tournament which is being staged in the UAE and Oman by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) this year.

T20 World Cup 2021 is the seventh edition of the tournament which is being staged in the UAE and Oman by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) this year. India are the designated hosts of the tournament but the tournament was moved to the UAE and Oman due to the COVID-19 situation in the country. The inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup was played in 2007 with India becoming the first champions in the shortest format under the legendary MS Dhoni. The format has since become popular across the globe and has led to the birth of several T20 leagues across many countries. T20 World Cup remains one of the most talked-about events in world cricket and the tournament will be returning after a gap of five years this time around due to COVID-19. It was originally scheduled to take place last year but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. Two successive T20 World Cups will now be played in 2021 and 2022. There are only six players who will be making their seventh appearance in a T20 World Cup this year having features in all of the previous editions of the tournament. Star batter Rohit Sharma is the only Indian player who has been part of the last six T20 World Cups and will be in action this year as well. Here is a look at all six players who have so far featured in all seven T20 World Cups: Rohit Sharma India's limited-overs vice-captain and star batter Rohit Sharma is the only player from the country to have features in all seven editions of the T20 World Cup so far. Rohit has 673 runs to his name in 28 matches in the T20 World Cup at an average of 39.58 and was a part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni in 2007. Also Read: People call him India's Inzamam: Akhtar names India star who is liked more than Virat Kohli in Pakistan Dwayne Bravo West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has come out of international retirement to feature in the T20 World Cup 2021 this year. A legend of the shortest format of the game, Bravo has taken an impressive 25 wickets and scored 504 runs in just 29 matches in T20 World Cups. He will be playing his seventh T20 World Cup this year. Chris Gayle The Universe Boss is the only second West Indies player to feature on the elite list. A T20 globetrotter, Gayle is one of the most explosive batters in the shortest format. Gayle has an excellent record in the T20 World Cup with a staggering 920 runs to his name at a strike rate of 146.73. He is a two-time T20 World Cup winner along with Bravo and will be gunning for his third title this year. Shakib Al Hasan The legendary all-rounder is among the three Bangladesh players who feature in the list. Shakib has been one of the best players for Bangladesh across all formats and has dominated in T20Is. The former Bangladesh captain has played 28 matches in T20 World Cups so far, amassing 675 runs and picking up 39 wickets. He has been one of the most consistent all-rounders in the history of the T20 World Cup. Also Read: ‘I was surprised’ – Sourav Ganguly opens up on Virat Kohli's decision to step down as India's T20I skipper Mushfiqur Rahim Bangladesh's wicket-keeper batter Mushfiqur Rahim will also be making his seventh appearance in a T20 World Cup this year. Rahim, who made his international debut in 2006, has 307 runs to his name in 28 T20 World Cup matches. Rahim will be looking to help Bangladesh go the distance in the showpiece event this year. Mahmudullah Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah has also played all seven editions of the T20 World Cup so far. He will be leading the side this year and will be looking to help his side pull off some major upsets and qualify for the semi-finals. Mahmudullah has so far played 25 matches in T20 World Cups and has scored only 284 runs at an average of 16.70.

Rohit Sharma to Chris Gayle: A look at players who have featured in all 7 editions of T20 World Cup so far

<p>Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan, who guided the side to the ICC T20 World Cup title in 2009, feels that while Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two "very bankable batsmen" for their respective sides, Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan could well decide who wins the T20 World Cup`s `Super 12` clash between the arch-rivals here on Sunday.<br />
<br />
The 43-year-old also said the India pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah had been brilliant in the last few months.<br />
<br />
"Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two very bankable batsmen for both India and Pakistan respectively, but I feel that Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan can also turn up the heat. The spotlight will largely be on the two captains, so Rohit and Rizwan will be eased off pressure and can produce match-winning performances for their sides," Younis said on YouTube channel `Uncut`.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-hafeez-and-malik-included-as-pakistan-announce-12-man-squad-for-india-clash-423301">T20 World Cup: Hafeez and Malik included as Pakistan announce 12-man squad for India clash</a></strong></p>

<p><br />
While India will hope to extend their T20 World Cup run of victories against Pakistan to 6-0, Azam has said that the lop-sided results were a thing of the past and Pakistan was keen to turn things around.<br />
<br />
Younis Khan said that Pakistan should be wary of the threat posed by Bumrah, though he added that his country`s bowlers too were in "good shape".<br />
<br />
"Pakistan`s fast bowlers have been in good shape. For India, their pace attack has improved significantly in the recent past as well. Bumrah, in particular, has been brilliant in the last few months."<br />
<br />
He also said that as far as experience goes, Kohli had established himself as a top cricketer and a leader, while Babar Azam was still establishing his international career.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-kaif-weighs-in-on-virat-kohli-vs-babar-azam-debate-ahead-of-indo-pak-clash-423263">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif weighs in on Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate ahead of Indo-Pak clash</a></strong></p>

<p>"Both are top, top players. Babar is still young and he is building his career right now. Kohli, meanwhile, had made his debut in 2008 when I was still playing. I don`t particularly think that the comparison is fair but it`s good to see fans talking about the two players in good stead," said the former skipper.</p>


Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan, who guided the side to the ICC T20 World Cup title in 2009, feels that while Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two "very bankable batsmen" for their respective sides, Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan could well decide who wins the T20 World Cup`s `Super 12` clash between the arch-rivals here on Sunday.

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan, who guided the side to the ICC T20 World Cup title in 2009, feels that while Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two "very bankable batsmen" for their respective sides, Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan could well decide who wins the T20 World Cup`s `Super 12` clash between the arch-rivals here on Sunday. The 43-year-old also said the India pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah had been brilliant in the last few months. "Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two very bankable batsmen for both India and Pakistan respectively, but I feel that Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan can also turn up the heat. The spotlight will largely be on the two captains, so Rohit and Rizwan will be eased off pressure and can produce match-winning performances for their sides," Younis said on YouTube channel `Uncut`. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: Hafeez and Malik included as Pakistan announce 12-man squad for India clash While India will hope to extend their T20 World Cup run of victories against Pakistan to 6-0, Azam has said that the lop-sided results were a thing of the past and Pakistan was keen to turn things around. Younis Khan said that Pakistan should be wary of the threat posed by Bumrah, though he added that his country`s bowlers too were in "good shape". "Pakistan`s fast bowlers have been in good shape. For India, their pace attack has improved significantly in the recent past as well. Bumrah, in particular, has been brilliant in the last few months." He also said that as far as experience goes, Kohli had established himself as a top cricketer and a leader, while Babar Azam was still establishing his international career. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif weighs in on Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate ahead of Indo-Pak clash "Both are top, top players. Babar is still young and he is building his career right now. Kohli, meanwhile, had made his debut in 2008 when I was still playing. I don`t particularly think that the comparison is fair but it`s good to see fans talking about the two players in good stead," said the former skipper.

T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma, Mohammad Rizwan could take the spotlight in India-Pak clash, says Younis Khan

<p>MS Dhoni-led India had defeated Pakistan by five runs in a thrilling final to lift the T20 World Cup trophy during the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2007. It was a thrilling final played between the two arch-rivals which went down the wire with the result getting decided in the final over of the game.</p>

<p>Joginder Sharma was handed over the ball to bowl the final over for India in a tense situation with Misbah-ul-Haq going strong on one end. Misbah was nearing his half-century and was looking set to take Pakistan over the line before he was dismissed by Joginder in the final over. With six runs needed off the final four balls of the 20th over, Misbah tried scooping a delivery and was caught by S Sreesanth.</p>

<p>Recalling the thrilling finish to the epic final of the 2007 T20 World Cup, India's current limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma, who was part of the game, said Yuvraj Singh almost thought that Sreesanth would drop the decisive catch. Rohit revealed he was fielding at cover during the final over and saw Yuvraj turn around as Misbah played the shot.</p>

<p>“I was standing at covers that particular ball. Yuvi ( Yuvraj Singh )was at point. The moment Misbah played that shot, I saw Yuvi turning around. He was not watching because he thought he was going to drop it,” Rohit said in a video shared by ICC.</p>

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<p>Rohit said the catch was the most important one Sreesanth has taken in his life.&nbsp;“I was praying that just catch it. He didn’t have to move much. It was just there. He just moved two, three steps back and took it. It was the most pressure catch that he must have taken in his life," said the Hitman.</p>

<p>India went on to become the maiden champions of the shortest format with the win and have since been looking for their second T20 World Cup title. Rohit is the only player from the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning side, who has played previously all six editions of the tournament and will be making his seventh appearance in the T2 World Cup 2021 year.</p>


MS Dhoni-led India had defeated Pakistan by five runs in a thrilling final to lift the T20 World Cup trophy during the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2007.

MS Dhoni-led India had defeated Pakistan by five runs in a thrilling final to lift the T20 World Cup trophy during the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2007. It was a thrilling final played between the two arch-rivals which went down the wire with the result getting decided in the final over of the game. Joginder Sharma was handed over the ball to bowl the final over for India in a tense situation with Misbah-ul-Haq going strong on one end. Misbah was nearing his half-century and was looking set to take Pakistan over the line before he was dismissed by Joginder in the final over. With six runs needed off the final four balls of the 20th over, Misbah tried scooping a delivery and was caught by S Sreesanth. Recalling the thrilling finish to the epic final of the 2007 T20 World Cup, India's current limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma, who was part of the game, said Yuvraj Singh almost thought that Sreesanth would drop the decisive catch. Rohit revealed he was fielding at cover during the final over and saw Yuvraj turn around as Misbah played the shot. “I was standing at covers that particular ball. Yuvi ( Yuvraj Singh )was at point. The moment Misbah played that shot, I saw Yuvi turning around. He was not watching because he thought he was going to drop it,” Rohit said in a video shared by ICC. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Rohit said the catch was the most important one Sreesanth has taken in his life. “I was praying that just catch it. He didn’t have to move much. It was just there. He just moved two, three steps back and took it. It was the most pressure catch that he must have taken in his life," said the Hitman. India went on to become the maiden champions of the shortest format with the win and have since been looking for their second T20 World Cup title. Rohit is the only player from the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning side, who has played previously all six editions of the tournament and will be making his seventh appearance in the T2 World Cup 2021 year.

'Yuvraj thought Sreesanth was going to drop it': Rohit Sharma recalls Misbah's dismissal in 2007 T20 WC final

<p>India and Pakistan are all set to lock horns in what promises to be a blockbuster encounter in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. The much-awaited clash will be staged at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Billions across the world will be glued to their TV screens when the two teams go up against each other.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricketing history and a clash between the two sides is always a high-octane affair with expectations and pressure at an all-time high from both sides. Ahead of their meeting, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar opened up on the rivalry and said Indian cricketers are loved as much in Pakistan as they are in their own country.</p>

<p>Akhtar had a special mention for India's limited-overs vice-captain and star batsman Rohit Sharma, who he feels is liked more than Indian skipper Virat Kohli in Pakistan. The legendary fast bowler, who is an active pundit, said Rohit is known as India's Inzamam-ul-Haq in Pakistan.</p>

<p>“In Pakistan, people like and appreciate Indian cricketers. They praise Virat Kohli, they like Rohit Sharma even more. They call him India’s Inzamam,” Akhtar said on <em>Zee News</em>.</p>

<p>Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif was also part of the discussion panel and picked India as favourites for their clash against Pakistan. While admitting that the result could go either way in a T20 game, Kaif said it will be a shocker for him if Pakistan manages to beat India in Dubai.</p>

<p>“Historically, India has always won these (World Cup) matches. But it depends on how the players perform on match day. The Indian side has an advantage that they just played the IPL in UAE and are accustomed to the conditions. Players are also in form. It would be a shocker if Pakistan wins. Of course, anything can happen in T20, but on paper, India appears to be a much stronger team,” said Kaif.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-favourites-against-pakistan-virat-kohli-co-among-three-best-sides-in-the-world-ex-pak-cricketer-422866">India favourites against Pakistan, Kohli &amp; Co. among three best sides in the world: Ex-Pak cricketer</a></p>

<p>Akhtar agreed with Kaif's comments and said the result will depend on how players from both sides perform on the given day but he insisted that Pakistan can stun India if they play with courage and execute the right strategy in the high-pressure game.</p>

<p>“Big matches are not won by big players but by big courage. No doubt, India has better players, but with courage and right strategy things could turn out to be different than expected. Also, T20 is a tricky format. It’s going to be a 50-50 game. It will depend on how the players perform on the given day,” said Akhtar.</p>

<p>India have never lost a game against Pakistan in the history of T20 World Cups. The Men in Blue have five wins to their name in five meeting against Pakistan in T20 World Cup history.</p>


India and Pakistan are all set to lock horns in what promises to be a blockbuster encounter in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. The much-awaited clash will be staged at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

India and Pakistan are all set to lock horns in what promises to be a blockbuster encounter in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. The much-awaited clash will be staged at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Billions across the world will be glued to their TV screens when the two teams go up against each other. India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricketing history and a clash between the two sides is always a high-octane affair with expectations and pressure at an all-time high from both sides. Ahead of their meeting, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar opened up on the rivalry and said Indian cricketers are loved as much in Pakistan as they are in their own country. Akhtar had a special mention for India's limited-overs vice-captain and star batsman Rohit Sharma, who he feels is liked more than Indian skipper Virat Kohli in Pakistan. The legendary fast bowler, who is an active pundit, said Rohit is known as India's Inzamam-ul-Haq in Pakistan. “In Pakistan, people like and appreciate Indian cricketers. They praise Virat Kohli, they like Rohit Sharma even more. They call him India’s Inzamam,” Akhtar said on Zee News. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif was also part of the discussion panel and picked India as favourites for their clash against Pakistan. While admitting that the result could go either way in a T20 game, Kaif said it will be a shocker for him if Pakistan manages to beat India in Dubai. “Historically, India has always won these (World Cup) matches. But it depends on how the players perform on match day. The Indian side has an advantage that they just played the IPL in UAE and are accustomed to the conditions. Players are also in form. It would be a shocker if Pakistan wins. Of course, anything can happen in T20, but on paper, India appears to be a much stronger team,” said Kaif. Also Read: India favourites against Pakistan, Kohli & Co. among three best sides in the world: Ex-Pak cricketer Akhtar agreed with Kaif's comments and said the result will depend on how players from both sides perform on the given day but he insisted that Pakistan can stun India if they play with courage and execute the right strategy in the high-pressure game. “Big matches are not won by big players but by big courage. No doubt, India has better players, but with courage and right strategy things could turn out to be different than expected. Also, T20 is a tricky format. It’s going to be a 50-50 game. It will depend on how the players perform on the given day,” said Akhtar. India have never lost a game against Pakistan in the history of T20 World Cups. The Men in Blue have five wins to their name in five meeting against Pakistan in T20 World Cup history.

People call him India's Inzamam: Shoaib Akhtar names India star who is liked more than Virat Kohli in Pakistan

<p>Virat Kohli-led Team India will begin their T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE, with their tournament-opener versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. India are placed in a tricky group, i.e. Pool B, and will have to be on their toes to march ahead into the semi-finals.</p>

<p>It, however, goes without saying that Kohli-led India will start as one of the favourites for the ICC event as they have plenty of match-winners. The Men in Blue are aiming for their second title in the T20 WC and have plethora of star players in their arsenal, such as KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, etc.</p>

<p>Among plenty of match-winners in India's line-up, the former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram named SKY as the gamechanger for Team India. "India have found a player in Suryakumar Yadav. I think he will change the game after those 6 overs in time to come. I have seen his shots. He was with me at KKR as well, now he has improved as a cricketer. He plays his shots, safe shots and doesn't stop. So, he needs to go the way he has been playing in his career," Akram said on the ‘Salaam Cricket’ show on Sports Tak.</p>

<p>Suryakumar, following three successive IPL seasons for Mumbai Indians (MI), made his international debut early this year. He has already made heads turn with his ability to play shots all around the ground and maintain a healthy strike-rate at the top of the order.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/past-is-history-babar-azam-on-indias-unbeaten-record-against-pakistan-in-world-cups-422958">'Past is history': Babar Azam on India's unbeaten record against Pakistan in World Cups</a></strong></p>

<p>For the unversed, India's group comprises New Zealand, Afghanistan and Scotland as well, apart from Babar Azam-led Pakistan, whereas one among Ireland or Namibia will join them post the qualifying round.&nbsp;The Men in Blue will aim to replicate their 2007 T20 WC success this time around and also have MS Dhoni as the team mentor.</p>

<p>Will Kohli sign off as a T20I captain with an ICC title? Only time will tell...</p>


Virat Kohli-led Team India will begin their T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE, with their tournament-opener versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Virat Kohli-led Team India will begin their T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE, with their tournament-opener versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. India are placed in a tricky group, i.e. Pool B, and will have to be on their toes to march ahead into the semi-finals. It, however, goes without saying that Kohli-led India will start as one of the favourites for the ICC event as they have plenty of match-winners. The Men in Blue are aiming for their second title in the T20 WC and have plethora of star players in their arsenal, such as KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. Among plenty of match-winners in India's line-up, the former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram named SKY as the gamechanger for Team India. "India have found a player in Suryakumar Yadav. I think he will change the game after those 6 overs in time to come. I have seen his shots. He was with me at KKR as well, now he has improved as a cricketer. He plays his shots, safe shots and doesn't stop. So, he needs to go the way he has been playing in his career," Akram said on the ‘Salaam Cricket’ show on Sports Tak. Suryakumar, following three successive IPL seasons for Mumbai Indians (MI), made his international debut early this year. He has already made heads turn with his ability to play shots all around the ground and maintain a healthy strike-rate at the top of the order. ALSO READ | 'Past is history': Babar Azam on India's unbeaten record against Pakistan in World Cups For the unversed, India's group comprises New Zealand, Afghanistan and Scotland as well, apart from Babar Azam-led Pakistan, whereas one among Ireland or Namibia will join them post the qualifying round. The Men in Blue will aim to replicate their 2007 T20 WC success this time around and also have MS Dhoni as the team mentor. Will Kohli sign off as a T20I captain with an ICC title? Only time will tell...

Not Hardik Pandya or Rishabh Pant! Wasim Akram names India's gamechanger ahead of Pakistan T20 WC face-off

<p>KL Rahul is likely to be India's first-choice opener alongside Rohit Sharma in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Rahul has been in magnificent form over the last couple of years and is heading into the showpiece event on a confident note after finishing third in the list of highest run-getters in IPL 2021.</p>

<p>However, discarded India pacer S Sreesanth believes captain Virat Kohli should open for India with Rohit in the T20 World Cup. Sreesanth feels Rohit and Kohli can form a deadly opening pair for the Men in Blue. Besides Rahul, India also have an in-form Ishan Kishan as a back-opener in the squad.</p>

<p>Kohli and Rohit had opened the innings for India in a couple of matches during the home T20I series against England this year. However, Rahul is likely to keep his spot after yet another stellar IPL season for Punjab Kings with the bat. Nonetheless, Sreesanth said Rahul can bat at number 3 and Kohli should open for India at the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>“In 2016, when Virat opened the innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), he scored four hundreds. So, I think Virat Kohli should open the innings with Rohit Sharma. Many people may not agree with me, but I think it will be like the deadliest thing. Also, KL Rahul should bat at No. 3. In T20s, Rishabh Pant can bat at No. 4," Sreesanth was quoted as saying by <em>Sportskeeda</em>.</p>

<p>Rohit opened the innings with Rahul in India's second warm-up match against Australia on Wednesday. While the Hitman scored a 41-ball 60, Rahul continued his purple patch with 39 off 31 balls. The Men in Blue won the game comfortably by 8 wickets.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-call-him-indias-inzamam-shoaib-akhtar-names-india-star-who-is-liked-more-than-virat-kohli-in-pakistan-422882">People call him India's Inzamam: Akhtar names India star who is liked more than Virat Kohli in Pakistan</a></p>

<p>With back-to-back wins in their warm-up matches, India have the winning momentum on their side as they gear up to face Pakistan in a high-pressure encounter on October 24. India will then face New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two group matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sreesanth believes the Kohli-led side is one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup and are the best team on paper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have the best team on paper. We have the best T20 tournament in the whole world in the form of IPL. Seven Indians play in one team. Imagine, we have a world XI when it comes to the T20 World Cup. I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t be winning the tournament," said the pacer, who was part of India's 2007 T20&nbsp; World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni.</p>


KL Rahul is likely to be India's first-choice opener alongside Rohit Sharma in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Rahul has been in magnificent form over the last couple of years and is heading into the showpiece event on a confident note after finishing third in the list of highest run-getters in IPL 2021.

KL Rahul is likely to be India's first-choice opener alongside Rohit Sharma in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Rahul has been in magnificent form over the last couple of years and is heading into the showpiece event on a confident note after finishing third in the list of highest run-getters in IPL 2021. However, discarded India pacer S Sreesanth believes captain Virat Kohli should open for India with Rohit in the T20 World Cup. Sreesanth feels Rohit and Kohli can form a deadly opening pair for the Men in Blue. Besides Rahul, India also have an in-form Ishan Kishan as a back-opener in the squad. Kohli and Rohit had opened the innings for India in a couple of matches during the home T20I series against England this year. However, Rahul is likely to keep his spot after yet another stellar IPL season for Punjab Kings with the bat. Nonetheless, Sreesanth said Rahul can bat at number 3 and Kohli should open for India at the T20 World Cup. “In 2016, when Virat opened the innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), he scored four hundreds. So, I think Virat Kohli should open the innings with Rohit Sharma. Many people may not agree with me, but I think it will be like the deadliest thing. Also, KL Rahul should bat at No. 3. In T20s, Rishabh Pant can bat at No. 4," Sreesanth was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda. Rohit opened the innings with Rahul in India's second warm-up match against Australia on Wednesday. While the Hitman scored a 41-ball 60, Rahul continued his purple patch with 39 off 31 balls. The Men in Blue won the game comfortably by 8 wickets. Also Read: People call him India's Inzamam: Akhtar names India star who is liked more than Virat Kohli in Pakistan With back-to-back wins in their warm-up matches, India have the winning momentum on their side as they gear up to face Pakistan in a high-pressure encounter on October 24. India will then face New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two group matches. Sreesanth believes the Kohli-led side is one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup and are the best team on paper. “We have the best team on paper. We have the best T20 tournament in the whole world in the form of IPL. Seven Indians play in one team. Imagine, we have a world XI when it comes to the T20 World Cup. I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t be winning the tournament," said the pacer, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad under MS Dhoni.

No KL Rahul! S Sreesanth names deadliest opening combination for Team India in T20 World Cup 2021

<p>The&nbsp;main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from Saturday (October 23). The qualifying round kicked off the tournament, on October 17, but all eyes are on the Super 12 round that will see all the major teams lock horns with each other and fight for the four semi-final spots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will take on Pakistan in what will be both sides' tournament-opener on October 24 (Sunday), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Ahead of the blockbuster face-off, former Pakistan chief selector and captain Inzamam-ul-Haq shared his thoughts on the epic rivalry and explained why Virat Kohli-led Team India have a very good chance to return with the coveted title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In any tournament, it cannot be said for certain that a particular team will win. It's all about how much chance do they have of winning it. In my opinion, India have a greater chance than any other team of winning this tournament, especially in conditions like these. They have experienced T20 players as well," Inzamam said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"India played their warm-up fixture against Australia rather comfortably. On subcontinent pitches like these, India are the most dangerous T20 side in the world. Even today, if we see the 155 runs they chased down, they did not even need Virat Kohli to do so," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-india-pak-or-wi-england-opener-jason-roy-names-two-biggest-threats-for-eoin-morgan-co-422652"><strong>T20 WC: India, Pak or WI? England opener Jason Roy names two biggest threats for Eoin Morgan &amp; Co.</strong></a></p>

<p>He further opined on the Indo-Pak rivalry and said, "The match between India and Pakistan in the Super 12s is the final before the final. No match will be hyped as much as this one. Even in the 2017 Champions Trophy, India and Pakistan started and finished the tournament by facing each other and both the matches felt like finals. The team winning that match will have their morale boosted and will also have 50 percent of pressure released from them."</p>

<p>India have a 5-0 lead over the Babar Azam-led Men in Green in the T20 WC history. However, they won't like to take the arch-rivals lightly as Pakistan have enough firepower to stun a rampant Indian team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-know-what-insecurity-we-salman-butt-slams-babar-azam-co-ahead-of-t20-wc-opener-vs-india-422635"><strong>'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam &amp; Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India</strong></a></p>

<p>India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B along with New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas England, West Indies, Australia and South Africa are in Pool A. Four more teams will join the Super 12, two in each group,&nbsp;from the qualifiers.</p>


The main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from Saturday (October 23). The qualifying round kicked off the tournament, on October 17, but all eyes are on the Super 12 round that will see all the major teams lock horns with each other and fight for the four semi-final spots.

The main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from Saturday (October 23). The qualifying round kicked off the tournament, on October 17, but all eyes are on the Super 12 round that will see all the major teams lock horns with each other and fight for the four semi-final spots. India will take on Pakistan in what will be both sides' tournament-opener on October 24 (Sunday), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Ahead of the blockbuster face-off, former Pakistan chief selector and captain Inzamam-ul-Haq shared his thoughts on the epic rivalry and explained why Virat Kohli-led Team India have a very good chance to return with the coveted title. "In any tournament, it cannot be said for certain that a particular team will win. It's all about how much chance do they have of winning it. In my opinion, India have a greater chance than any other team of winning this tournament, especially in conditions like these. They have experienced T20 players as well," Inzamam said on his YouTube channel. "India played their warm-up fixture against Australia rather comfortably. On subcontinent pitches like these, India are the most dangerous T20 side in the world. Even today, if we see the 155 runs they chased down, they did not even need Virat Kohli to do so," he added. ALSO READ | T20 WC: India, Pak or WI? England opener Jason Roy names two biggest threats for Eoin Morgan & Co. He further opined on the Indo-Pak rivalry and said, "The match between India and Pakistan in the Super 12s is the final before the final. No match will be hyped as much as this one. Even in the 2017 Champions Trophy, India and Pakistan started and finished the tournament by facing each other and both the matches felt like finals. The team winning that match will have their morale boosted and will also have 50 percent of pressure released from them." India have a 5-0 lead over the Babar Azam-led Men in Green in the T20 WC history. However, they won't like to take the arch-rivals lightly as Pakistan have enough firepower to stun a rampant Indian team. ALSO READ | 'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam & Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B along with New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas England, West Indies, Australia and South Africa are in Pool A. Four more teams will join the Super 12, two in each group, from the qualifiers.

Inzamam-ul-Haq explains why Virat Kohli-led India have 'great chance of winning T20 WC'

<p>Team India completed their two warm-up games ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 with emphatic performances. Virat Kohli-led India beat England by 7 wickets before they demolished Australia by 9 wickets to tick several boxes and will now gear up for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday).</p>

<p>India and Pakistan will be locking horns with each other on the 22-yard cricket strip after a gap of two years. The last face-off between the two arch-rivals took place during the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, when Kohli &amp; Co. thrashed Sarfaraz Ahmed-led Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method). Since both sides meet only during ICC or multi-nation tournaments, the excitement is on another level before the upcoming face-off.</p>

<p>Ahead of the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan named his playing XI for India for the Pakistan clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 24). Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan named KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as his openers whereas Captain Kohli will be batting at No. 3 (as he mentioned at the coin toss during the England warm-up tie).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-take-squid-game-challenge-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-opener-only-two-succeed-watch-422580"><strong>Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Pathan's middle and lower-order comprised Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja whereas the 36-year-old went ahead with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami as his pacers. His spin department comprises Varun Chakravarthy and Jadeja as he had no space for R Ashwin and in-form fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly, Ishan Kishan -- who smashed a 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) in the first warm-up encounter -- also misses out from Pathan's XI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-dale-steyn-shares-his-india-xi-for-pakistan-clash-names-gamechanger-for-virat-kohli-co-422420"><strong>T20 WC: Dale Steyn shares his India XI for Pakistan clash, names gamechanger for Virat Kohli &amp; Co.</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Irfan Pathan’s&nbsp;Playing XI for Pakistan tie:&nbsp;</strong>KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah</p>


Team India completed their two warm-up games ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 with emphatic performances. Virat Kohli-led India beat England by 7 wickets before they demolished Australia by 9 wickets to tick several boxes and will now gear up for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday).

Team India completed their two warm-up games ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 with emphatic performances. Virat Kohli-led India beat England by 7 wickets before they demolished Australia by 9 wickets to tick several boxes and will now gear up for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday). India and Pakistan will be locking horns with each other on the 22-yard cricket strip after a gap of two years. The last face-off between the two arch-rivals took place during the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, when Kohli & Co. thrashed Sarfaraz Ahmed-led Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method). Since both sides meet only during ICC or multi-nation tournaments, the excitement is on another level before the upcoming face-off. Ahead of the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan named his playing XI for India for the Pakistan clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 24). Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan named KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as his openers whereas Captain Kohli will be batting at No. 3 (as he mentioned at the coin toss during the England warm-up tie). ALSO READ | Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH Pathan's middle and lower-order comprised Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja whereas the 36-year-old went ahead with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami as his pacers. His spin department comprises Varun Chakravarthy and Jadeja as he had no space for R Ashwin and in-form fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Interestingly, Ishan Kishan -- who smashed a 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) in the first warm-up encounter -- also misses out from Pathan's XI. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Dale Steyn shares his India XI for Pakistan clash, names gamechanger for Virat Kohli & Co. Irfan Pathan’s Playing XI for Pakistan tie: KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

No R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur as Irfan Pathan names his India XI for T20 WC opener vs Pakistan

<p>As India is gearing up for a high-octane clash against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24) in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup, arguments over permutation and the combination of playing XI are trending everywhere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Critics have expressed their views, particularly, on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who didn't bowl a single over during Mumbai Indians' disappointing IPL 2021 campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/misbah-ul-haq-points-out-deep-rooted-problems-in-pakistan-cricket-says-looking-for-scapegoats-is-a-norm-422489">Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm'</a></strong></p>

<p>However, commenting on Pandya's availability, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday (October 20) said that the all-rounder is expected to be "ready" to bowl when the team starts its T20 World Cup campaign on Sunday.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia.</p>

<p>"We have quality in the main bowlers, but you need an option for a 6th bowler," he added.</p>

<p>During the warm-up match against Australia, India registered a convincing nine-wicket win while chasing 153.&nbsp;Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">All w̶a̶r̶m̶e̶d̶ fired up 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/1z8NDwtSxQ">pic.twitter.com/1z8NDwtSxQ</a></p>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1450828356027498499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-instructs-bowler-to-remove-rcb-teammate-during-india-vs-australia-warm-up-clash-in-t20-wc-422472">Watch: Virat Kohli instructs bowler to remove RCB teammate during India vs Australia warm-up clash in T20 WC</a></strong></p>

<p>As cricket pundits constantly suggested a rejig in the Indian squad for the T20 World cup heading into the tournament, the team management has repeatedly stated that Pandya's bowling is crucial for the team's balance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Possibly, we need to find that sixth option. Myself, Virat and Suryakumar, all those guys need to come in and bowl to see who can be that sixth option," Rohit said.</p>

<p>India had beaten England by seven wickets in their first warm-up game on Monday.&nbsp;</p>


As India is gearing up for a high-octane clash against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24) in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup, arguments over permutation and the combination of playing XI are trending everywhere.

As India is gearing up for a high-octane clash against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24) in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup, arguments over permutation and the combination of playing XI are trending everywhere. Critics have expressed their views, particularly, on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who didn't bowl a single over during Mumbai Indians' disappointing IPL 2021 campaign. ALSO READ | Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm' However, commenting on Pandya's availability, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday (October 20) said that the all-rounder is expected to be "ready" to bowl when the team starts its T20 World Cup campaign on Sunday. "Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia. "We have quality in the main bowlers, but you need an option for a 6th bowler," he added. During the warm-up match against Australia, India registered a convincing nine-wicket win while chasing 153. Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head. All w̶a̶r̶m̶e̶d̶ fired up 🔥 pic.twitter.com/1z8NDwtSxQ — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) October 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli instructs bowler to remove RCB teammate during India vs Australia warm-up clash in T20 WC As cricket pundits constantly suggested a rejig in the Indian squad for the T20 World cup heading into the tournament, the team management has repeatedly stated that Pandya's bowling is crucial for the team's balance. "Possibly, we need to find that sixth option. Myself, Virat and Suryakumar, all those guys need to come in and bowl to see who can be that sixth option," Rohit said. India had beaten England by seven wickets in their first warm-up game on Monday.

T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma comments on Hardik Pandya's availability, says 'he should be ready'

<p>The T20 World Cup 2021 has commenced in the UAE, from October 17. While the lowly-ranked teams are fighting hard in the qualifiers to grab a spot in the Super 12 round, all eyes are on the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash which will be the respective tournament-opener for both sides in the main draw of the showpiece event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the marquee encounter, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game have shared their views on the blockbuster face-off, which will take place on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rohit-sharmas-half-century-helps-india-chase-australias-153-in-second-warm-up-game-422396"><strong>T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game</strong></a></p>

<p>Former South Africa speedster Dale Steyn and VVS Laxman, former India Test specialist, were asked to come forward with their respective XIs for Team India for the Pakistan face-off. While Steyn just made one change from Laxman's XI, he also named India's gamechanger. Speaking on Star Sports, Steyn said, "I wouldn't have been able to name it as perfectly as VVS but one change, I would bring in Shami ahead of Bhuvi, just on current form alone. Shami has been doing it quite nicely. Bhuvi is fantastic but on current form I would go with Shami in this side."</p>

<p>"Look, he's a game-changer. That's the big thing. He is a gamechanger whether he’s got bat or ball in his hand, specifically with that bat actually. He hasn't bowled a lot lately, at all to be honest. I would pick him purely on his batting alone. After the current form that he has had, it's a bit touch and go but he is a fantastic player. And teams will know that. So, when he comes out to bat, teams would have to prepare accordingly because Hardik Pandya can take the game away from you quite easily with the bat," the former speedster-turned-commentator added.</p>

<p><strong>Laxman's India XI:&nbsp;</strong>Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar and Varun Chakravarthy</p>

<p><strong>Steyn's India XI:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya,&nbsp;Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar and Varun Chakravarthy</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-rahul-dravid-ms-dhoni-to-sachin-tendulkar-reliving-vintage-commercials-featuring-indian-cricketers-422402"><strong>From Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: Reliving vintage commercials featuring Indian cricketers</strong></a></p>

<p>For the unversed, India are placed in Pool B along with Babar Azam-led Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue will aim to keep their winning streak alive versus Pakistan and start well in the 16-team competition.</p>


The T20 World Cup 2021 has commenced in the UAE, from October 17. While the lowly-ranked teams are fighting hard in the qualifiers to grab a spot in the Super 12 round, all eyes are on the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash which will be the respective tournament-opener for both sides in the main draw of the showpiece event.

The T20 World Cup 2021 has commenced in the UAE, from October 17. While the lowly-ranked teams are fighting hard in the qualifiers to grab a spot in the Super 12 round, all eyes are on the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash which will be the respective tournament-opener for both sides in the main draw of the showpiece event. Ahead of the marquee encounter, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game have shared their views on the blockbuster face-off, which will take place on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game Former South Africa speedster Dale Steyn and VVS Laxman, former India Test specialist, were asked to come forward with their respective XIs for Team India for the Pakistan face-off. While Steyn just made one change from Laxman's XI, he also named India's gamechanger. Speaking on Star Sports, Steyn said, "I wouldn't have been able to name it as perfectly as VVS but one change, I would bring in Shami ahead of Bhuvi, just on current form alone. Shami has been doing it quite nicely. Bhuvi is fantastic but on current form I would go with Shami in this side." "Look, he's a game-changer. That's the big thing. He is a gamechanger whether he’s got bat or ball in his hand, specifically with that bat actually. He hasn't bowled a lot lately, at all to be honest. I would pick him purely on his batting alone. After the current form that he has had, it's a bit touch and go but he is a fantastic player. And teams will know that. So, when he comes out to bat, teams would have to prepare accordingly because Hardik Pandya can take the game away from you quite easily with the bat," the former speedster-turned-commentator added. Laxman's India XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar and Varun Chakravarthy Steyn's India XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar and Varun Chakravarthy ALSO READ | From Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: Reliving vintage commercials featuring Indian cricketers For the unversed, India are placed in Pool B along with Babar Azam-led Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue will aim to keep their winning streak alive versus Pakistan and start well in the 16-team competition.

T20 WC: Dale Steyn shares his India XI for Pakistan clash, names gamechanger for Virat Kohli & Co.

<p>India fine-tuned their T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia in their final warm-up game here on Wednesday but the sixth bowler's slot remained a worry as even Virat Kohli rolled his arm over going into the tournament proper.</p>

<p>Captaining the side with Kohli only taking the field to bowl, Rohit Sharma (60 retired off 41) showed sublime touch alongside opening partner K L Rahul (39 off 31) as India chased down Australia's 152 for five in 17.5 overs.</p>

<p>Suryakumar Yadav (38 not out off 27) came at number three in Kohli's absence and got valuable time in the middle which should boost his confidence going ahead.</p>

<p>Hardik Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head.</p>

<p>Another plus for India was seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar finding rhythm after a poor outing against England. India had also beaten England in their earlier practice game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332"><strong>Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</strong></a></p>

<p>The batting department looks more or less settled and the five specialist bowlers also inspire confidence but the same can't be said about the extra bowling option with Hardik not bringing his all-round skills to the table at the moment.</p>

<p>"Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia.</p>

<p>The team management is hoping he will be ready to bowl during India's World Cup campaign which begins with the marquee clash against Pakistan on Sunday.</p>

<p>Skipper Kohli kept things tight with two overs of medium pace but to expect him to do the job in high-pressure scenarios would be asking for too much from him.</p>

<p>India conceded 58 runs off the last five overs and that is something they would like to improve on.</p>

<p>After losing the toss, India put up a decent bowling effort.</p>

<p>Rohit mentioned at the toss that Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami were rested from the game but the skipper took the field to bowl a couple of overs in which he conceded 12 runs.</p>

<p>India had Australia on the mat at 11 for three after Aaron Finch opted to bat first. David Warner's barren run continued after a failed attempt at a reverse sweep had him trapped in front off Ravichandran Ashwin.</p>

<p>With his very next ball, Ashwin got rid of birthday boy Mitchell Marsh who played for the turn which wasn't there only to edge it to the first slip.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-fan-asks-shaheen-afridi-for-indo-pak-match-tickets-pacer-responds-in-hilarious-manner-watch-422308"><strong>T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch</strong></a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja had Finch trapped LBW with a slider off his very first ball, leaving Australia with a lot of work to do.</p>

<p>Steve Smith (57 off 48) and in-form Glenn Maxwell (37 off 28) tried to break the shackles with a 61-run partnership.</p>

<p>While Maxwell used his reverse sweep to good effect, Smith kept himself busy by rotating the strike.</p>

<p>After Maxwell fell to a conventional sweep, Smith and Marcus Stoinis (41 not out off 25 balls) got together and provided a much needed final flourish to the innings.</p>

<p>Smith smashed Shardul Thakur for three successive fours in the 17th over before Stoinis hit a straight six and a boundary off mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who conceded 23 runs off his two overs.</p>

<p>After a bad day in office against England, Bhuvneshwar found his rhythm and was effective both at the start and in the death.<br />
India, however, would be a tad disappointed to give away so many runs in the death overs and help Australia's recovery.</p>


India fine-tuned their T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia in their final warm-up game here on Wednesday but the sixth bowler's slot remained a worry as even Virat Kohli rolled his arm over going into the tournament proper.

India fine-tuned their T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia in their final warm-up game here on Wednesday but the sixth bowler's slot remained a worry as even Virat Kohli rolled his arm over going into the tournament proper. Captaining the side with Kohli only taking the field to bowl, Rohit Sharma (60 retired off 41) showed sublime touch alongside opening partner K L Rahul (39 off 31) as India chased down Australia's 152 for five in 17.5 overs. Suryakumar Yadav (38 not out off 27) came at number three in Kohli's absence and got valuable time in the middle which should boost his confidence going ahead. Hardik Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head. Another plus for India was seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar finding rhythm after a poor outing against England. India had also beaten England in their earlier practice game. ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie The batting department looks more or less settled and the five specialist bowlers also inspire confidence but the same can't be said about the extra bowling option with Hardik not bringing his all-round skills to the table at the moment. "Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia. The team management is hoping he will be ready to bowl during India's World Cup campaign which begins with the marquee clash against Pakistan on Sunday. Skipper Kohli kept things tight with two overs of medium pace but to expect him to do the job in high-pressure scenarios would be asking for too much from him. India conceded 58 runs off the last five overs and that is something they would like to improve on. After losing the toss, India put up a decent bowling effort. Rohit mentioned at the toss that Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami were rested from the game but the skipper took the field to bowl a couple of overs in which he conceded 12 runs. India had Australia on the mat at 11 for three after Aaron Finch opted to bat first. David Warner's barren run continued after a failed attempt at a reverse sweep had him trapped in front off Ravichandran Ashwin. With his very next ball, Ashwin got rid of birthday boy Mitchell Marsh who played for the turn which wasn't there only to edge it to the first slip. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch Ravindra Jadeja had Finch trapped LBW with a slider off his very first ball, leaving Australia with a lot of work to do. Steve Smith (57 off 48) and in-form Glenn Maxwell (37 off 28) tried to break the shackles with a 61-run partnership. While Maxwell used his reverse sweep to good effect, Smith kept himself busy by rotating the strike. After Maxwell fell to a conventional sweep, Smith and Marcus Stoinis (41 not out off 25 balls) got together and provided a much needed final flourish to the innings. Smith smashed Shardul Thakur for three successive fours in the 17th over before Stoinis hit a straight six and a boundary off mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who conceded 23 runs off his two overs. After a bad day in office against England, Bhuvneshwar found his rhythm and was effective both at the start and in the death. India, however, would be a tad disappointed to give away so many runs in the death overs and help Australia's recovery.

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game

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