Opening batsman Rohit Sharma on Saturday broke the record for registering the most number of sixes in a bilateral Test series. 
 
He achieved the feat on the first day of the third and final Test against South Africa here at Ranchi. Sharma has now smashed 16 sixes in the entire series. 
 
Sharma went past West Indies' batsman Shimron Hetmyer who had registered 15 sixes in the series against Bangladesh in 2018/19. 
 
Before Hetmyer's record, spinner Harbhajan Singh held the record as he hit 14 sixes in the series against New Zealand in 2010/11. 
 
Sharma who has gone past the 100-run mark in the Test also became only the second Indian opener to score three or more centuries in a Test series. 
 
Sunil Gavaskar was the only previous Indian to do so, in three different series. 
 
In the third and final Test, India won the toss and elected to bat first against South Africa. 
 
Virat Kohli-led side handed the debut cap to Shahbaz Nadeem. On the other hand, Proteas skipper announced that Quinton de Kock would be opening the batting for the side in place of Aiden Markram. 
 
Nadeem is only the second cricketer in the history of Ranji Trophy to take 50 wickets in a season twice, having taken 51 in 2015-16. 
 
While filing this story, India had reached the score of 184/3 in the first innings. Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane are currently unbeaten on 101 and 60 respectively.

Opening batsman Rohit Sharma on Saturday broke the record for registering the most number of sixes in a bilateral Test series. He achieved the feat on the first day of the third and final Test against South Africa here at Ranchi.

Opening batsman Rohit Sharma on Saturday broke the record for registering the most number of sixes in a bilateral Test series. He achieved the feat on the first day of the third and final Test against South Africa here at Ranchi. Sharma has now smashed 16 sixes in the entire series. Sharma went past West Indies' batsman Shimron Hetmyer who had registered 15 sixes in the series against Bangladesh in 2018/19. Before Hetmyer's record, spinner Harbhajan Singh held the record as he hit 14 sixes in the series against New Zealand in 2010/11. Sharma who has gone past the 100-run mark in the Test also became only the second Indian opener to score three or more centuries in a Test series. Sunil Gavaskar was the only previous Indian to do so, in three different series. In the third and final Test, India won the toss and elected to bat first against South Africa. Virat Kohli-led side handed the debut cap to Shahbaz Nadeem. On the other hand, Proteas skipper announced that Quinton de Kock would be opening the batting for the side in place of Aiden Markram. Nadeem is only the second cricketer in the history of Ranji Trophy to take 50 wickets in a season twice, having taken 51 in 2015-16. While filing this story, India had reached the score of 184/3 in the first innings. Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane are currently unbeaten on 101 and 60 respectively.

Rohit Sharma breaks Shimron Hetmyer's record of most sixes in Test series

Star batsman of Team India Rohit Sharma struck a century in his first outing as Test opener to help India start strongly in the first match against South Africa on Wednesday.

Sharma -- a star of India's limited-overs teams -- reached 115 and Mayank Agarwal 84 after the hosts elected to bat first in Visakhapatnam and made South Africa toil.

Sharma completed his fourth Test century in the second session with a single off debutant spinner Senuran Muthusamy to raucous cheers from the home crowd.

He hit five sixes and 12 fours from 174 balls faced up to the break and showed frequent glimpses of the form that has made him a feared one-day batsman.

Agarwal, like Sharma, also used his feet to good effect against the South African spinners who struggled on the batting-friendly pitch.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis rotated his spinners, led by Keshav Maharaj, for a large part of the day with intermittent spells from pacemen Kagiso Rabada and Vernon Philander.

India, who top the Test World Championship rankings, are looking for a record 11th Test series win at home.

A sudden thunder storm forced the umpires to call tea seven minutes early.

India's playing XI: Virat Kohli (Capt), Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ishant Sharma, Md Shami.

South Africa's playing XI: Faf du Plessis (Capt), Temba Bavuma (vc), Theunis de Bruyn, Quinton de Kock, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Senuran Muthusamy, Vernon Philander, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada.

(With inputs from agencies)

Star batsman of Team India Rohit Sharma struck a century in his first outing as Test opener to help India start strongly in the first match against South Africa on Wednesday.

Star batsman of Team India Rohit Sharma struck a century in his first outing as Test opener to help India start strongly in the first match against South Africa on Wednesday. Sharma -- a star of India's limited-overs teams -- reached 115 and Mayank Agarwal 84 after the hosts elected to bat first in Visakhapatnam and made South Africa toil. Sharma completed his fourth Test century in the second session with a single off debutant spinner Senuran Muthusamy to raucous cheers from the home crowd. He hit five sixes and 12 fours from 174 balls faced up to the break and showed frequent glimpses of the form that has made him a feared one-day batsman. Agarwal, like Sharma, also used his feet to good effect against the South African spinners who struggled on the batting-friendly pitch. South Africa captain Faf du Plessis rotated his spinners, led by Keshav Maharaj, for a large part of the day with intermittent spells from pacemen Kagiso Rabada and Vernon Philander. India, who top the Test World Championship rankings, are looking for a record 11th Test series win at home. A sudden thunder storm forced the umpires to call tea seven minutes early. India's playing XI: Virat Kohli (Capt), Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ishant Sharma, Md Shami. South Africa's playing XI: Faf du Plessis (Capt), Temba Bavuma (vc), Theunis de Bruyn, Quinton de Kock, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Senuran Muthusamy, Vernon Philander, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada. (With inputs from agencies)

India vs South Africa, first Test: Rohit Sharma's century gives India a strong start

Twitterati enjoyed a field day after&nbsp;Virat Kohli, captain of the Indian cricket team, was spotted reading a book titled 'Detox Your Ego' inside the dressing room during India vs West Indies Test match at Antigua.

The image immediately went viral on the social forums and&nbsp;fans started tweeting the picture with funny&nbsp;captions.&nbsp;

While many Twitter users connected the choice of book to&nbsp;Virat's alleged rift with teammate Rohit&nbsp;Sharma, which the skipper has denied during a press conference.&nbsp;

After the Cricket World Cup 2019, rumours indicating issues&nbsp;between both the cricketers intensified.&nbsp;

But Kohli turned down the word on the street, saying,&nbsp;"If I do not like a person or if I am insecure of a person, you will see that on my face or in my behaviour towards that person and that is how simple it is."

"I have always praised Rohit whenever I have had an opportunity because I believe he is that good. We have had no issues," Kohli added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite all of that,&nbsp;the fans posted&nbsp;hilarious comments, read some of them:&nbsp;

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Virat Kohli reading a PERFECT Book for himself...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/OTHMo6cdQr">pic.twitter.com/OTHMo6cdQr</a>
— Chintan Buch (@chintanjbuch) <a href="https://twitter.com/chintanjbuch/status/1164916840197287941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Just trying to think of who would have convinced Virat Kohli to read that "Detox your Ego" book. #WIvIND #INDvWI," one fan tweeted.&nbsp;

"Not the first time a Cricketer reading 'Detox Your Ego' #WIvIND," another fan tweeted.&nbsp;

"Detox Your Ego. Book Sponsored by Rohit Sharma? #WIvIND," one Twitter user wrote.&nbsp;

"Kohli reading a book "Detox Your Ego" Wonderful," another user commented.&nbsp;

"Did "Detox your Ego" Book writer/publisher plan this intentionally to promote his book? You know with the "Brand Virat Kohli" thing, you can't take this out of the picture #WIvIND," one fan tweeted.&nbsp;

"A book gifted by his Friend Mr.Sharma @imVkohli @ImRo45 @vikrantgupta73#INDvsWI #WIvIND @BCCI #detoxyourego @AnushkaSharma," another user tweeted.&nbsp;

Twitterati enjoyed a field day after Virat Kohli, captain of the Indian cricket team, was spotted reading a book titled 'Detox Your Ego' inside the dressing room during India vs West Indies Test match at Antigua.

Twitterati enjoyed a field day after Virat Kohli, captain of the Indian cricket team, was spotted reading a book titled 'Detox Your Ego' inside the dressing room during India vs West Indies Test match at Antigua. The image immediately went viral on the social forums and fans started tweeting the picture with funny captions. While many Twitter users connected the choice of book to Virat's alleged rift with teammate Rohit Sharma, which the skipper has denied during a press conference. After the Cricket World Cup 2019, rumours indicating issues between both the cricketers intensified. But Kohli turned down the word on the street, saying, "If I do not like a person or if I am insecure of a person, you will see that on my face or in my behaviour towards that person and that is how simple it is." "I have always praised Rohit whenever I have had an opportunity because I believe he is that good. We have had no issues," Kohli added. Despite all of that, the fans posted hilarious comments, read some of them: Virat Kohli reading a PERFECT Book for himself...#INDvsWI pic.twitter.com/OTHMo6cdQr — Chintan Buch (@chintanjbuch) August 23, 2019 × "Just trying to think of who would have convinced Virat Kohli to read that "Detox your Ego" book. #WIvIND #INDvWI," one fan tweeted. "Not the first time a Cricketer reading 'Detox Your Ego' #WIvIND," another fan tweeted. "Detox Your Ego. Book Sponsored by Rohit Sharma? #WIvIND," one Twitter user wrote. "Kohli reading a book "Detox Your Ego" Wonderful," another user commented. "Did "Detox your Ego" Book writer/publisher plan this intentionally to promote his book? You know with the "Brand Virat Kohli" thing, you can't take this out of the picture #WIvIND," one fan tweeted. "A book gifted by his Friend Mr.Sharma @imVkohli @ImRo45 @vikrantgupta73#INDvsWI #WIvIND @BCCI #detoxyourego @AnushkaSharma," another user tweeted.

'Sponsored by Rohit Sharma?': Virat Kohli reading 'Detox Your Ego' confuses Twitterati

Rohit Sharma led from the front as India defeated the West Indies in a rain-affected second fixture of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-t20i-india-opt-to-bat-first-240652">three-match T20 International series</a> at the Central Broward Stadium in Florida on Sunday.

Opening batsman Sharma blazed 67 off 51 balls, with three sixes and six fours embellishing his entertaining innings, in pacing India to 167 for five after captain Virat Kohli chose to bat first.

Despite a bludgeoning 54 from Rovman Powell, West Indies were kept in check at 98 for four off 15.3 overs when the inclement weather intervened.

Torrential showers prevented any further play and India were declared winners by 22 runs on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method as West Indies needed to be at 121 to be ahead on run-rate when play was halted.

Having won the low-scoring first match of the series by four wickets at the same venue a day earlier, India will now be pursuing a clean sweep of the series when the final match is played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Tuesday.

Sharma dominated an opening stand of 67 with Shikhar Dhawan and looked on course for a hundred when a miscued swing at Oshane Thomas resulted in a comfortable catch for Shimron Hetmyer at extra-cover.&nbsp;

Thomas also removed Rishabh Pant cheaply and the West Indies did a better containing job in the second half of the innings except for the final over when three sixes were hoisted off Keemo Paul.

Paul dismissed Dhawan for 23 and left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell claimed the prized wicket of Kohli (28) and doubled his wicket tally in removing Manish Pandey to a wicketkeeper’s catch.

After going almost four overs without finding the boundary ropes Krunal Pandya heaved two sixes and Ravindra Jadeja added another in Paul's expensive finale to the innings.

Faced with a daunting target, and mindful of the potential threat of rain, West Indies suffered two early setbacks with Evin Lewis and Sunil Narine both falling cheaply.&nbsp;

Narine was promoted to open the batting for this match with John Campbell dropped to accommodate an additional spinning option for the Caribbean side in left-armer Khary Pierre.

Powell and Nicholas Pooran tried to get their team back on course with a 76-run third-wicket partnership.&nbsp;

But they failed to score quickly enough to put their opponents under any real pressure. Pooran was the main stumbling block as his 19 runs came off 34 deliveries while Powell raced to 54 off the same number of balls.

He lost Pooran to a well-judged catch by Manish Pandey on the long-on boundary before falling as well leg-before to the same bowler, Krunal Pandya. His entertaining innings included three sixes and six fours.

There was no time for Kieron Pollard and Shimron Hetmyer to get into stride as the forecasted thundershowers closed in to wash away any prospect of the remaining overs being bowled.

Rohit Sharma led from the front as India defeated the West Indies in a rain-affected second fixture of the three-match T20 International series at the Central Broward Stadium in Florida on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma led from the front as India defeated the West Indies in a rain-affected second fixture of the three-match T20 International series at the Central Broward Stadium in Florida on Sunday. Opening batsman Sharma blazed 67 off 51 balls, with three sixes and six fours embellishing his entertaining innings, in pacing India to 167 for five after captain Virat Kohli chose to bat first. Despite a bludgeoning 54 from Rovman Powell, West Indies were kept in check at 98 for four off 15.3 overs when the inclement weather intervened. Torrential showers prevented any further play and India were declared winners by 22 runs on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method as West Indies needed to be at 121 to be ahead on run-rate when play was halted. Having won the low-scoring first match of the series by four wickets at the same venue a day earlier, India will now be pursuing a clean sweep of the series when the final match is played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Tuesday. Sharma dominated an opening stand of 67 with Shikhar Dhawan and looked on course for a hundred when a miscued swing at Oshane Thomas resulted in a comfortable catch for Shimron Hetmyer at extra-cover. Thomas also removed Rishabh Pant cheaply and the West Indies did a better containing job in the second half of the innings except for the final over when three sixes were hoisted off Keemo Paul. Paul dismissed Dhawan for 23 and left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell claimed the prized wicket of Kohli (28) and doubled his wicket tally in removing Manish Pandey to a wicketkeeper’s catch. After going almost four overs without finding the boundary ropes Krunal Pandya heaved two sixes and Ravindra Jadeja added another in Paul's expensive finale to the innings. Faced with a daunting target, and mindful of the potential threat of rain, West Indies suffered two early setbacks with Evin Lewis and Sunil Narine both falling cheaply. Narine was promoted to open the batting for this match with John Campbell dropped to accommodate an additional spinning option for the Caribbean side in left-armer Khary Pierre. Powell and Nicholas Pooran tried to get their team back on course with a 76-run third-wicket partnership. But they failed to score quickly enough to put their opponents under any real pressure. Pooran was the main stumbling block as his 19 runs came off 34 deliveries while Powell raced to 54 off the same number of balls. He lost Pooran to a well-judged catch by Manish Pandey on the long-on boundary before falling as well leg-before to the same bowler, Krunal Pandya. His entertaining innings included three sixes and six fours. There was no time for Kieron Pollard and Shimron Hetmyer to get into stride as the forecasted thundershowers closed in to wash away any prospect of the remaining overs being bowled.

Rohit Sharma stars as India beat Windies in rain-hit Florida T20

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill on Sunday.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill on Sunday. West Indies made one change in their team as they brought in Khary Pierre in place of John Campbell meanwhile the Virat-led team is the same. India, who were knocked out from recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales in the semi-finals, have taken a 1-0 lead in the series. In the first match, pacer Navdeep Saini starred in team's winning cause in his debut match. Saini took three important wickets as India limited the West Indies to 95 for nine and chased down the target in the 18th over. "Moisture from yesterday morning is gone. Think the pitch will get slower and slower," commented Kohli on pitch condition at the time of toss. "First six overs ball's going to come on nicely. Important to assess pitch once ball gets older. Have to think on the feet on such a pitch. Same team," Kohli added. West Indies skipper Carlos Brathwaite backed the boys to come out on top, he said, "Message has been to keep that positive intent, just make smarter decisions. John Campbell is out so Narine opens the batting. Pierre is in." Playing XI: West Indies: Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine, Nicholas Pooran(w), Kieron Pollard, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas ﻿India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Manish Pandey, Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Navdeep Saini, K Khaleel Ahmed

India vs West Indies, 2nd T20I: India opt to bat first

A day before India's first T20 International match against West Indies, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has shared a picture with teammates&nbsp;captioning "squad". Although, the fans are not happy as they are wondering where is Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

The photo, shared&nbsp;by Kohli on Instagram and Twitter,&nbsp;featured KL Rahul, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed, and Shreyas Iyer.&nbsp;

As soon as the photo was posted, fans started asking about India's World Cup-hero Rohit.&nbsp;

Lately, rumours of cracks within the Indian team were reported by local media after Kohli's team bowed out of the World Cup following their semi-final loss to New Zealand earlier this month.&nbsp;

Sharma —&nbsp;the vice-captain of the one-day and Twenty20 international side —&nbsp;recently unfollowed Kohli and the captain's Bollywood wife Anushka Sharma on Instagram, adding fuel to the suggestions the two senior players were not on good terms.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;Kohli said that talk of a rift with star batsman Rohit&nbsp;was "ridiculous" and "baffling" and insisted all was well in the team camp.&nbsp;

Kohli, however, had dismissed the speculation ahead of the team's departure for the tour of West Indies.&nbsp;

"In my opinion, it's baffling to be honest. Ridiculous to read some stuff that comes out," the Virat had&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

Here are some reactions on Virat's post:

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Oye <a href="https://t.co/Jooha2HMfz">pic.twitter.com/Jooha2HMfz</a>
— Chota Don (@choga_don) <a href="https://twitter.com/choga_don/status/1157131805620752385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> if everything is alright with in your team and dressing room, why every time you post a pic with team members <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> always go missing?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a>
— Gaurav Varmani 🇮🇳 (@gauravvarmani) <a href="https://twitter.com/gauravvarmani/status/1157128461074522112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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where is <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> Y u r doing politics <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> after Graig chapel virat ND shashtri will be responsible for poor performance of Indian cricket
— silent (@jiteshkumar114) <a href="https://twitter.com/jiteshkumar114/status/1157121465646370816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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No squad is complete without this two cricketing beast Rohit and Shikhar <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> 
The more you hide your feelings, the more they show. The more deny your feeling, the more they grow. 
 
Please try to include them from next click Virat sir..
— Sanjay Yadav (@iamsanjaydv) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsanjaydv/status/1157166942932701188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Where is our world cup hero <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> ? 
Please step down from captaincy just for country. And Give A chance to Rohit Sharma To Lead This Team. 
Dont Angry with me I Sorry to Say That Practically You Really Don't know How To Make A Good Team. 
You kiked off <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a>
— Abhishek Pratap singh UPSSSC (@JayAbhishekHind) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayAbhishekHind/status/1157135291091582976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India's tour of West Indies will open with the T20Is in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

A day before India's first T20 International match against West Indies, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has shared a picture with teammates captioning "squad". Although, the fans are not happy as they are wondering where is Rohit Sharma.

A day before India's first T20 International match against West Indies, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has shared a picture with teammates captioning "squad". Although, the fans are not happy as they are wondering where is Rohit Sharma. The photo, shared by Kohli on Instagram and Twitter, featured KL Rahul, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed, and Shreyas Iyer. As soon as the photo was posted, fans started asking about India's World Cup-hero Rohit. Lately, rumours of cracks within the Indian team were reported by local media after Kohli's team bowed out of the World Cup following their semi-final loss to New Zealand earlier this month. Sharma — the vice-captain of the one-day and Twenty20 international side — recently unfollowed Kohli and the captain's Bollywood wife Anushka Sharma on Instagram, adding fuel to the suggestions the two senior players were not on good terms. But Kohli said that talk of a rift with star batsman Rohit was "ridiculous" and "baffling" and insisted all was well in the team camp. Kohli, however, had dismissed the speculation ahead of the team's departure for the tour of West Indies. "In my opinion, it's baffling to be honest. Ridiculous to read some stuff that comes out," the Virat had told reporters. Here are some reactions on Virat's post: Oye pic.twitter.com/Jooha2HMfz — Chota Don (@choga_don) August 2, 2019 × Hey @imVkohli if everything is alright with in your team and dressing room, why every time you post a pic with team members @ImRo45 always go missing?? #RohitSharma #ViratKohli — Gaurav Varmani 🇮🇳 (@gauravvarmani) August 2, 2019 × where is @ImRo45 Y u r doing politics @BCCI after Graig chapel virat ND shashtri will be responsible for poor performance of Indian cricket — silent (@jiteshkumar114) August 2, 2019 × No squad is complete without this two cricketing beast Rohit and Shikhar @SDhawan25 @ImRo45 The more you hide your feelings, the more they show. The more deny your feeling, the more they grow. Please try to include them from next click Virat sir.. — Sanjay Yadav (@iamsanjaydv) August 2, 2019 × Where is our world cup hero @ImRo45 ? Please step down from captaincy just for country. And Give A chance to Rohit Sharma To Lead This Team. Dont Angry with me I Sorry to Say That Practically You Really Don't know How To Make A Good Team. You kiked off @ajinkyarahane88 — Abhishek Pratap singh UPSSSC (@JayAbhishekHind) August 2, 2019 × India's tour of West Indies will open with the T20Is in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.

'Where is Rohit Sharma?': Fans unhappy over Virat Kohli's latest post

India head into their all-format tour of the West Indies this weekend with more on their mind than simply winning a couple of T20s.&nbsp;

For Virat Kohli's side - and indeed for the West Indies - it is a chance to pick up the pieces after a disappointing one-day international (ODI) World Cup in England and put behind them the recent talk of splits in the camp.

Kohli's confidant Ravi Shastri is on borrowed time before the appointment of a new coach, former captain MS Dhoni has skipped the tour to do military service while Kohli this week has had to dismiss talk of a rift with prolific opening batsman Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

"It baffles you as a leader, as a coach, and as a team when lies are being floated around," Kohli told reporters this week.&nbsp;

"And they are made to look believable. We have had no issues."

India, unexpectedly beaten by New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final last month, are likely to find plenty of support during the first two T20s on Saturday and Sunday with expatriate Indians expected to outnumber West Indian fans at the delightful Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida.

Lauderhill, home of (USA) cricket&nbsp;

The stadium hosted its first internationals back in 2010 when New Zealand played Sri Lanka in two T20s.&nbsp;

West Indies and India played a T20 there three years ago and produced real fireworks, with KL Rahul smashing a century off 46 balls and Evin Lewis responding for the West Indies with a ton off 49 balls. The Indians won by just one run.

Rahul will be hoping to replicate that form in Lauderhill and the third T20 and ODI series in Guyana and Trinidad but the Indians will miss the experience of Dhoni as well as all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been rested, and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who will join the squad for the tour-ending Test matches.

The Tests in Antigua and Jamaica will have a special significance as they will mark the first round of matches for each side in the new World Test Championship.

Unlike the visitors, the West Indies went into the World Cup as one of the outsiders and despite a resounding victory over Pakistan to open their campaign, they slid down to ninth in the final standings amid much disaffection and rancour among their diehard supporters over the repeated manner in which they surrendered potential winning positions.

Their meeting with India at Old Trafford ended in a crushing 125-run defeat. &nbsp;

Now, with an eye on building towards the defence of their World T20 title in Australia in 15 months, they have welcomed back experienced franchise globetrotters in all-rounder Kieron Pollard and spinner Sunil Narine. Carlos Brathwaite is back as captain.

There is no Chris Gayle in Florida as he is hard at work in the Global T20 event in Canada. But the big-hitting opener has been selected for the ODI leg of the tour, perhaps as a final farewell in front of home fans. Already 39, he is hardly likely to feature in the next World Cup in India in 2023.

India will start favourites across all three formats although the West Indies are expected to be at their most competitive and explosive in the T20s.

India head into their all-format tour of the West Indies this weekend with more on their mind than simply winning a couple of T20s. For Virat Kohli's side - and indeed for the West Indies - it is a chance to pick up the pieces after a disappointing one-day international (ODI) World Cup in England and put behind them the recent talk of splits in the camp.

India head into their all-format tour of the West Indies this weekend with more on their mind than simply winning a couple of T20s. For Virat Kohli's side - and indeed for the West Indies - it is a chance to pick up the pieces after a disappointing one-day international (ODI) World Cup in England and put behind them the recent talk of splits in the camp. Kohli's confidant Ravi Shastri is on borrowed time before the appointment of a new coach, former captain MS Dhoni has skipped the tour to do military service while Kohli this week has had to dismiss talk of a rift with prolific opening batsman Rohit Sharma. "It baffles you as a leader, as a coach, and as a team when lies are being floated around," Kohli told reporters this week. "And they are made to look believable. We have had no issues." India, unexpectedly beaten by New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final last month, are likely to find plenty of support during the first two T20s on Saturday and Sunday with expatriate Indians expected to outnumber West Indian fans at the delightful Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida. Lauderhill, home of (USA) cricket The stadium hosted its first internationals back in 2010 when New Zealand played Sri Lanka in two T20s. West Indies and India played a T20 there three years ago and produced real fireworks, with KL Rahul smashing a century off 46 balls and Evin Lewis responding for the West Indies with a ton off 49 balls. The Indians won by just one run. Rahul will be hoping to replicate that form in Lauderhill and the third T20 and ODI series in Guyana and Trinidad but the Indians will miss the experience of Dhoni as well as all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been rested, and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who will join the squad for the tour-ending Test matches. The Tests in Antigua and Jamaica will have a special significance as they will mark the first round of matches for each side in the new World Test Championship. Unlike the visitors, the West Indies went into the World Cup as one of the outsiders and despite a resounding victory over Pakistan to open their campaign, they slid down to ninth in the final standings amid much disaffection and rancour among their diehard supporters over the repeated manner in which they surrendered potential winning positions. Their meeting with India at Old Trafford ended in a crushing 125-run defeat. Now, with an eye on building towards the defence of their World T20 title in Australia in 15 months, they have welcomed back experienced franchise globetrotters in all-rounder Kieron Pollard and spinner Sunil Narine. Carlos Brathwaite is back as captain. There is no Chris Gayle in Florida as he is hard at work in the Global T20 event in Canada. But the big-hitting opener has been selected for the ODI leg of the tour, perhaps as a final farewell in front of home fans. Already 39, he is hardly likely to feature in the next World Cup in India in 2023. India will start favourites across all three formats although the West Indies are expected to be at their most competitive and explosive in the T20s.

India-West Indies series: Virat Kohli-led Team India begin the tour with Florida T20Is

Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma in West Indies: Who has the better record?

The Indian squad for the upcoming tour of West Indies is likely to be announced on July 19 or 20, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-invites-applications-for-mens-head-coach-to-replace-ravi-shastri-236389">BCCI </a>source confirmed on Wednesday.

There have been speculations regarding MS Dhoni's availability for the tour and clearing the air, the BCCI source said that there has been no meeting with the wicket-keeper batsman yet.

The source added that a meeting will be held with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-umpiring-error-haunts-india-as-ms-dhoni-lost-his-wicket-on-no-ball-234892">Dhoni </a>before deciding the future course of action.

"No meeting has taken place with Dhoni yet regarding the West Indies tour. There will be a meeting with Dhoni first and after that things will become clear regarding his availability. The team selection is either on July 19th or 20th," a BCCI source told ANI.

Dhoni had received a lot of criticism for his slow strike rate during the recently concluded Cricket World Cup.

The 38-year-old scored 273 runs in the tournament, but he was regularly criticised for slow strike-rate.

Dhoni faced criticism for, what critics said, his baffling approach during the team's run-chase against England.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-failed-to-deliver-when-it-mattered-says-rohit-sharma-after-world-cup-semi-final-loss-235219">In the semi-final</a>, he scored 50 runs but as soon as he was run-out, India's hopes of reaching the finals dashed.

Earlier, it was reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will most likely be rested for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies, starting from August 3.

A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source had told ANI that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forty-five-minutes-of-bad-cricket-put-us-out-says-kohli-after-indias-shock-exit-234767">Kohli </a>and Bumrah are likely to be on rest for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies.

Both the players will be joining the team prior to the Test series.

India will play their first Test match from August 22 to 27.

India will start their Windies tour from August 3 and play three T20's, three ODI's and two Test matches.

The Indian squad for the upcoming tour of West Indies is likely to be announced on July 19 or 20, a BCCI source confirmed on Wednesday. There have been speculations regarding MS Dhoni's availability for the tour and clearing the air, the BCCI source said that there has been no meeting with the wicket-keeper batsman yet.

The Indian squad for the upcoming tour of West Indies is likely to be announced on July 19 or 20, a BCCI source confirmed on Wednesday. There have been speculations regarding MS Dhoni's availability for the tour and clearing the air, the BCCI source said that there has been no meeting with the wicket-keeper batsman yet. The source added that a meeting will be held with Dhoni before deciding the future course of action. "No meeting has taken place with Dhoni yet regarding the West Indies tour. There will be a meeting with Dhoni first and after that things will become clear regarding his availability. The team selection is either on July 19th or 20th," a BCCI source told ANI. Dhoni had received a lot of criticism for his slow strike rate during the recently concluded Cricket World Cup. The 38-year-old scored 273 runs in the tournament, but he was regularly criticised for slow strike-rate. Dhoni faced criticism for, what critics said, his baffling approach during the team's run-chase against England. In the semi-final, he scored 50 runs but as soon as he was run-out, India's hopes of reaching the finals dashed. Earlier, it was reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will most likely be rested for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies, starting from August 3. A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source had told ANI that Kohli and Bumrah are likely to be on rest for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies. Both the players will be joining the team prior to the Test series. India will play their first Test match from August 22 to 27. India will start their Windies tour from August 3 and play three T20's, three ODI's and two Test matches.

MS Dhoni's fate hangs in balance ahead India's squad announcement for West Indies

Cricket World Cup 2019: Dream team of the tournament

Major takeaways from New Zealand's 18-run win over India in World Cup semi-final

New Zealand survived Ravindra Jadeja's late onslaught to stun <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231">India by 18 runs</a> in a low-scoring thriller on Wednesday and reach the Cricket World Cup final for the second time in a row.

Twice champions India were reeling at 24-4 in their chase for a modest victory target of 240 in what had appeared to be a lop-sided semi-final.

Jadeja (77) then partnered Mahendra Singh Dhoni in a century-plus stand but India were bowled out for 221 in the final over and New Zealand will play hosts England or defending champions Australia in Sunday's final at Lord's.

Opting to bat first in the rain-hit contest played over two days, New Zealand's 239 for eight looked far from imposing against India's formidable batting lineup.

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After a game like that, all you can do is shake hands and say, 'Well played' 🤝<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/sZMBMCTtWO">pic.twitter.com/sZMBMCTtWO</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1148958443518267392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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But Matt Henry (3-37) and Trent Boult (2-42) ripped the heart out of India's top order and spinner Mitchell Santner struck two crucial blows in the middle overs.

Henry dismissed Rohit Sharma, the World Cup's leading scorer, and Boult trapped Kohli lbw in the next over.

The India captain reviewed the decision but could not get it overturned.

The horror continued for India as KL Rahul became the third Indian top order batsman to depart for one, Henry's second caught-behind victim.

Jimmy Neesham took a magnificent left-handed catch to dismiss Dinesh Karthik as India slumped to 24-4 in 10 overs.

Rishabh Pant added 47 runs with Hardik Pandya to somewhat arrest the slide.

Pant made 32 before his wild heave off Santner found Colin de Grandhomme near the mid-wicket boundary.

Pandya, struggling with a hip injury, also made 32 before throwing away his wicket.

Jadeja injected fresh excitement into the match with his brave counter-attack that left his team needing 90 runs off the last 10 overs with four wickets in hand.

He and Dhoni (50) kept India afloat in the chase which was eventually derailed when both fell in successive overs.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson had won the toss on Tuesday and opted to bat at a venue where teams batting first had won all five previous matches in the tournament.

India's new ball pair of Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3-43) and Jasprit Bumrah bowled with impeccable discipline while Jadeja was also very economical with the ball.

Resuming on the reserve day at 211-5, New Zealand added 28 runs from the remaining 23 deliveries as Ross Taylor top-scored with a gutsy 74 to go with Williamson's 67.

Jadeja proved his value as a fielder with a pinpoint throw to run out Taylor and in the next delivery, took a well-judged catch near the ropes to dismiss Tom Latham.

Match in numbers:

<img alt="Cricket World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c050a1a2-2a7c-41f1-8648-ca76e261ce8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/semi-final%201.jpg" />

&nbsp;

New Zealand survived Ravindra Jadeja's late onslaught to stun India by 18 runs in a low-scoring thriller on Wednesday and reach the Cricket World Cup final for the second time in a row.

New Zealand survived Ravindra Jadeja's late onslaught to stun India by 18 runs in a low-scoring thriller on Wednesday and reach the Cricket World Cup final for the second time in a row. Twice champions India were reeling at 24-4 in their chase for a modest victory target of 240 in what had appeared to be a lop-sided semi-final. Jadeja (77) then partnered Mahendra Singh Dhoni in a century-plus stand but India were bowled out for 221 in the final over and New Zealand will play hosts England or defending champions Australia in Sunday's final at Lord's. Opting to bat first in the rain-hit contest played over two days, New Zealand's 239 for eight looked far from imposing against India's formidable batting lineup. After a game like that, all you can do is shake hands and say, 'Well played' 🤝#INDvNZ | #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/sZMBMCTtWO — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 10, 2019 × But Matt Henry (3-37) and Trent Boult (2-42) ripped the heart out of India's top order and spinner Mitchell Santner struck two crucial blows in the middle overs. Henry dismissed Rohit Sharma, the World Cup's leading scorer, and Boult trapped Kohli lbw in the next over. The India captain reviewed the decision but could not get it overturned. The horror continued for India as KL Rahul became the third Indian top order batsman to depart for one, Henry's second caught-behind victim. Jimmy Neesham took a magnificent left-handed catch to dismiss Dinesh Karthik as India slumped to 24-4 in 10 overs. Rishabh Pant added 47 runs with Hardik Pandya to somewhat arrest the slide. Pant made 32 before his wild heave off Santner found Colin de Grandhomme near the mid-wicket boundary. Pandya, struggling with a hip injury, also made 32 before throwing away his wicket. Jadeja injected fresh excitement into the match with his brave counter-attack that left his team needing 90 runs off the last 10 overs with four wickets in hand. He and Dhoni (50) kept India afloat in the chase which was eventually derailed when both fell in successive overs. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson had won the toss on Tuesday and opted to bat at a venue where teams batting first had won all five previous matches in the tournament. India's new ball pair of Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3-43) and Jasprit Bumrah bowled with impeccable discipline while Jadeja was also very economical with the ball. Resuming on the reserve day at 211-5, New Zealand added 28 runs from the remaining 23 deliveries as Ross Taylor top-scored with a gutsy 74 to go with Williamson's 67. Jadeja proved his value as a fielder with a pinpoint throw to run out Taylor and in the next delivery, took a well-judged catch near the ropes to dismiss Tom Latham. Match in numbers:

New Zealand stun India by 18 runs to reach World Cup final

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry struck thrice as India's top batting order collapsed in the first semi-final of the Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

Opting to bat first, New Zealand put up a modest target of 240 in a game that was pushed to the reserve day as it was halted on Tuesday due to excessive rain.&nbsp;

Defending the target, New Zealand pacers Henry and Trent Boult gave an ideal start to the team as India saw key batsmen Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul all depart for one run each. Soon after that, Dinesh Karthik too lost his wicket after scoring 6 runs.&nbsp;

Henry dismissed Rohit, Rahul and Karthik and Virat lost his wicket to Boult.&nbsp;

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WATCH! 
 
Boult 🔥 
Kohli ☝️ 
 
You can see how much this means to New Zealand! <a href="https://t.co/YPqWsIRMfe">https://t.co/YPqWsIRMfe</a>
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Sharma had come into this match having made five hundreds this tournament, a record for a single World Cup.

But the opener fell for just one when he edged a fine Henry delivery that curved away to wicketkeeper Tom Latham.

India captain Kohli went next, lbw to a superb inswinger from left-armer Boult.

Kohli reviewed but replays upheld English official Richard Illingworth's original out decision on umpire's call and, to the despair of the massed ranks of India fans in the ground, the star batsman had to go.&nbsp;

While filing this story, India scored 51 for a loss of four wickets after 17 overs.&nbsp;

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry struck thrice as India's top batting order collapsed in the first semi-final of the Cricket World Cup 2019. Opting to bat first, New Zealand put up a modest target of 240 in a game that was pushed to the reserve day as it was halted on Tuesday due to excessive rain.

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry struck thrice as India's top batting order collapsed in the first semi-final of the Cricket World Cup 2019. Opting to bat first, New Zealand put up a modest target of 240 in a game that was pushed to the reserve day as it was halted on Tuesday due to excessive rain. Defending the target, New Zealand pacers Henry and Trent Boult gave an ideal start to the team as India saw key batsmen Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul all depart for one run each. Soon after that, Dinesh Karthik too lost his wicket after scoring 6 runs. Henry dismissed Rohit, Rahul and Karthik and Virat lost his wicket to Boult. WATCH! Boult 🔥 Kohli ☝️ You can see how much this means to New Zealand! https://t.co/YPqWsIRMfe — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 10, 2019 × Sharma had come into this match having made five hundreds this tournament, a record for a single World Cup. But the opener fell for just one when he edged a fine Henry delivery that curved away to wicketkeeper Tom Latham. India captain Kohli went next, lbw to a superb inswinger from left-armer Boult. Kohli reviewed but replays upheld English official Richard Illingworth's original out decision on umpire's call and, to the despair of the massed ranks of India fans in the ground, the star batsman had to go. While filing this story, India scored 51 for a loss of four wickets after 17 overs.

World Cup, 1st semi-final: Pacer Matt Henry leaves India reeling

Sachin Tendulkar may have unwittingly provided New Zealand with extra motivation to cause a huge upset in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-overcast-clouds-rain-expected-at-manchester-ahead-of-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-234185">Tuesday's World Cup semi-final</a> against India when he wished <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-look-back-at-seven-match-winning-knocks-by-mahendra-singh-dhoni-233604">MS Dhoni</a> happy birthday and "all the very best for the next two games".

The implication of the retired batting great's remarks was that India wicketkeeper Dhoni, who turned 38 on Sunday, and his team-mates already have one foot in the July 14 final against England or Australia at Lord's.

India, whose group match against 2015 runners-up New Zealand was washed out, have suffered just one defeat at this World Cup so far, against England, and topped the 10-team group table.

Opener Rohit Sharma became the first batsman to score five centuries in a single World Cup when he made 103 in a seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka on Saturday, while fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been the spearhead of a well-balanced bowling attack.

India captain Virat Kohli said Monday the pressure of being overwhelming favourites was nothing new for a squad who have long shouldered the hopes of a nation of more than a billion.

And he suggested that might give them an edge over the Black Caps at Old Trafford.

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-semi-final-india-vs-new-zealand-head-to-head-records-234123">Indian team</a> always carries a lot of expectation and pressure whenever we play," Kohli told reporters.

"We are quite used to that over the years. We are better equipped to react in these situations because we know what these kind of games and our fan base and the expectations bring," added Kohli.

But if New Zealand, who could recall spinner Ish Sodhi to an attack featuring left-arm quick Trent Boult and fit-again fast bowler Lockie Ferguson - can find a way through India's top three, they could expose a long tail.

The Black Caps, who only qualified for the semi-finals in fourth place on the basis of net run-rate, have lost their last three games - against Pakistan, holders Australia and England.

They now have the additional incentive of proving to Tendulkar that his prediction of an India appearance in the final was premature.

Watch : Indian skipper Virat Kohli's press conference ahead of New Zealand clash

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Equal opportunity

"We definitely deserve to be here," New Zealand captain Kane Williamson said at his pre-match press conference.

"Although we've qualified fourth we've got as equal an opportunity as anybody else."

Batting first has become an increasingly successful tactic at the World Cup in general and at Old Trafford in particular. In all five previous games on the ground, the team batting first has won.&nbsp;

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-the-fab-four-cricket-world-cup-2019-234111">Kohli </a>said,&nbsp;"It comes back to the same point -&nbsp;handling pressure. You make two bad decisions when you are chasing and the game goes too far away from you to pull it back.''

"We are not worried about the toss. You have to be prepared both ways. We can't say if we lose the toss we have no hope. We should believe enough in ourself as a side to overcome any situation."

Williamson has been in fine form, making match-winning hundreds against South Africa and the West Indies.

But his 481 tournament runs represent nearly 29 percent of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-know-what-will-happen-if-india-vs-new-zealand-match-gets-abandoned-234101">New Zealand</a>'s total.

"Kane has stood up brilliantly for us," said Black Caps coach Gary Stead. "I don't think we'll be doing anything drastic, we just know we have to be better in that area than what we have been so far."

India may have the look of cricket thoroughbreds but Ferguson said of New Zealand,&nbsp;"As a team we definitely want to be the scrappers, guys that scrap for wins and not always do we win pretty."

Sachin Tendulkar may have unwittingly provided New Zealand with extra motivation to cause a huge upset in Tuesday's World Cup semi-final against India when he wished MS Dhoni happy birthday and "all the very best for the next two games".

Sachin Tendulkar may have unwittingly provided New Zealand with extra motivation to cause a huge upset in Tuesday's World Cup semi-final against India when he wished MS Dhoni happy birthday and "all the very best for the next two games". The implication of the retired batting great's remarks was that India wicketkeeper Dhoni, who turned 38 on Sunday, and his team-mates already have one foot in the July 14 final against England or Australia at Lord's. India, whose group match against 2015 runners-up New Zealand was washed out, have suffered just one defeat at this World Cup so far, against England, and topped the 10-team group table. Opener Rohit Sharma became the first batsman to score five centuries in a single World Cup when he made 103 in a seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka on Saturday, while fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been the spearhead of a well-balanced bowling attack. India captain Virat Kohli said Monday the pressure of being overwhelming favourites was nothing new for a squad who have long shouldered the hopes of a nation of more than a billion. And he suggested that might give them an edge over the Black Caps at Old Trafford. "The Indian team always carries a lot of expectation and pressure whenever we play," Kohli told reporters. "We are quite used to that over the years. We are better equipped to react in these situations because we know what these kind of games and our fan base and the expectations bring," added Kohli. But if New Zealand, who could recall spinner Ish Sodhi to an attack featuring left-arm quick Trent Boult and fit-again fast bowler Lockie Ferguson - can find a way through India's top three, they could expose a long tail. The Black Caps, who only qualified for the semi-finals in fourth place on the basis of net run-rate, have lost their last three games - against Pakistan, holders Australia and England. They now have the additional incentive of proving to Tendulkar that his prediction of an India appearance in the final was premature. Watch : Indian skipper Virat Kohli's press conference ahead of New Zealand clash × Equal opportunity "We definitely deserve to be here," New Zealand captain Kane Williamson said at his pre-match press conference. "Although we've qualified fourth we've got as equal an opportunity as anybody else." Batting first has become an increasingly successful tactic at the World Cup in general and at Old Trafford in particular. In all five previous games on the ground, the team batting first has won. But Kohli said, "It comes back to the same point - handling pressure. You make two bad decisions when you are chasing and the game goes too far away from you to pull it back.'' "We are not worried about the toss. You have to be prepared both ways. We can't say if we lose the toss we have no hope. We should believe enough in ourself as a side to overcome any situation." Williamson has been in fine form, making match-winning hundreds against South Africa and the West Indies. But his 481 tournament runs represent nearly 29 percent of New Zealand's total. "Kane has stood up brilliantly for us," said Black Caps coach Gary Stead. "I don't think we'll be doing anything drastic, we just know we have to be better in that area than what we have been so far." India may have the look of cricket thoroughbreds but Ferguson said of New Zealand, "As a team we definitely want to be the scrappers, guys that scrap for wins and not always do we win pretty."

'We deserve to be here,' says New Zealand captain Kane Williamson ahead of clash against India

India head coach, Ravi Shastri, lauded team India's performance ahead of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231"> India-New Zealand semi-final</a> match on Tuesday in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

In a video posted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Twitter, Shastri praised Indian players for their brilliant performance in the tournament.

Shastri hailed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharma-is-the-best-odi-player-says-virat-kohli-234035">Rohit Sharma</a> and said that he is one of the greatest ODI players. The 32-year-old Indian batsman has been in great form in the World Cup so far scoring 647 runs from eight innings. Sharma is the only batsman who has scored five centuries in the ongoing tournament.

He has broken Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara's record for scoring the most centuries in a single edition of the World Cup. Sharma has been providing a steady start to the Indian innings and he has the ability to accelerate when required.

"He is one of the greatest ODI players, whether he has scored runs in the competition or not. Just seeing his records over the year, three double hundreds in ODI, no one has done that and he is been really consistent for India," Shastri said.

Shastri further praised India bowlers for their spirited performance in the World Cup so far.

He complimented Mohammad Shami's bowling spell against Afghanistan where he clinched a hat-trick.

"Chahal has got a great temperament as he attacks the batsmen and looks for a wicket, that was the need of the hour. The team that improved like hell, Afghanistan. The match went down to the wire and you needed something special and Shami delivered for us," he said.

Speaking about the need to have good bowlers, he said,&nbsp;"In this format of the game, we got to have good death bowlers who can take wickets and restrict the opponent, and in Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar we got two good ones," he added.

Shastri hailed all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-amazing-to-have-a-cricketer-like-hardik-pandya-says-virat-kohli-233666&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiF4av1tKfjAhW0mOYKHeU4BqIQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1q7Q01Mc6NVhrzrStvptg-">Hardik Pandya</a> and said he is one who can bat and can also deliver 10 overs when required.

"He has come along as a bowler, we are getting full 10 overs out of him. He reads the condition well, knows where to use the off-cutters and the slow bouncers. So, his reading of the game is good which is a massive help for the side when you have the batsman as flamboyant as him who can also bowl," Shashtri said.

Shastri concluded and said our job is to get out and perform as an individual and as a team.

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"I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> coach Ravi Shastri talks through each of India's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> matches before the crunch semi-final clash against New Zealand. <a href="https://t.co/I1HCDzfpPo">pic.twitter.com/I1HCDzfpPo</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1148426548460040198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours. Nothing else to worry about. Our job is to get out there and do our job, as an individual and as a team," he said.

India will take on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-overcast-clouds-rain-expected-at-manchester-ahead-of-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-234185">New Zealand</a> in the semi-final match later in the day.

India head coach, Ravi Shastri, lauded team India's performance ahead of the India-New Zealand semi-final match on Tuesday in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

India head coach, Ravi Shastri, lauded team India's performance ahead of the India-New Zealand semi-final match on Tuesday in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. In a video posted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Twitter, Shastri praised Indian players for their brilliant performance in the tournament. Shastri hailed Rohit Sharma and said that he is one of the greatest ODI players. The 32-year-old Indian batsman has been in great form in the World Cup so far scoring 647 runs from eight innings. Sharma is the only batsman who has scored five centuries in the ongoing tournament. He has broken Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara's record for scoring the most centuries in a single edition of the World Cup. Sharma has been providing a steady start to the Indian innings and he has the ability to accelerate when required. "He is one of the greatest ODI players, whether he has scored runs in the competition or not. Just seeing his records over the year, three double hundreds in ODI, no one has done that and he is been really consistent for India," Shastri said. Shastri further praised India bowlers for their spirited performance in the World Cup so far. He complimented Mohammad Shami's bowling spell against Afghanistan where he clinched a hat-trick. "Chahal has got a great temperament as he attacks the batsmen and looks for a wicket, that was the need of the hour. The team that improved like hell, Afghanistan. The match went down to the wire and you needed something special and Shami delivered for us," he said. Speaking about the need to have good bowlers, he said, "In this format of the game, we got to have good death bowlers who can take wickets and restrict the opponent, and in Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar we got two good ones," he added. Shastri hailed all-rounder Hardik Pandya and said he is one who can bat and can also deliver 10 overs when required. "He has come along as a bowler, we are getting full 10 overs out of him. He reads the condition well, knows where to use the off-cutters and the slow bouncers. So, his reading of the game is good which is a massive help for the side when you have the batsman as flamboyant as him who can also bowl," Shashtri said. Shastri concluded and said our job is to get out and perform as an individual and as a team. "I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours."#TeamIndia coach Ravi Shastri talks through each of India's #CWC19 matches before the crunch semi-final clash against New Zealand. pic.twitter.com/I1HCDzfpPo — ICC (@ICC) July 9, 2019 × "I thought god was in England's dressing room that day. Hope if we play England next, he sits in ours. Nothing else to worry about. Our job is to get out there and do our job, as an individual and as a team," he said. India will take on New Zealand in the semi-final match later in the day.

World Cup: Coach Ravi Shastri backs team India ahead of clash vs New Zealand

Indian opener Rohit Sharma's response to&nbsp;Mahendra Singh Dhoni's birthday plans is epic and will definitely leave you laughing out loud.&nbsp;

India's former captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-virender-sehwag-to-vvs-laxman-wishes-pour-in-as-ms-dhoni-turns-38-233742">Dhoni&nbsp;has turned 38</a> and fans, family, friends have wished him, also #HappyBirthdayDhoni is Twitter's top trend since yesterday.&nbsp;

Rohit was addressing the media after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Saturday in Leeds.&nbsp;

On being asked about Dhoni's birthday plans, Rohit gave a hilarious reply, he said, "What do you tell someone on their birthday? Happy birthday only right?" &nbsp;

"We have our travel day tomorrow and we don't know we are going to Manchester or Birmingham. Accordingly, we will cut the cake during the bus drive. We will send you the photos," Rohit added.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Is there anyone as candid and funny as <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>? Here's what he had to say when asked about a message for Birthday Boy <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 😄😁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/aCD23hgKts">pic.twitter.com/aCD23hgKts</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1147596327276228611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the match, Rohit smashed a stunning century and became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup.&nbsp;

He is only the fourth batsman after Sachin Tendulkar, Matthew Hayden and Shakib Al Hasan to score more than 600 runs at a single World Cup.&nbsp;

India have entered the semi-finals and will lock horns with New Zealand on July 9 for a place in final of Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

Indian opener Rohit Sharma's response to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's birthday plans is epic and will definitely leave you laughing out loud. India's former captain Dhoni has turned 38 and fans, family, friends have wished him, also #HappyBirthdayDhoni is Twitter's top trend since yesterday.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma's response to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's birthday plans is epic and will definitely leave you laughing out loud. India's former captain Dhoni has turned 38 and fans, family, friends have wished him, also #HappyBirthdayDhoni is Twitter's top trend since yesterday. Rohit was addressing the media after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Saturday in Leeds. On being asked about Dhoni's birthday plans, Rohit gave a hilarious reply, he said, "What do you tell someone on their birthday? Happy birthday only right?" "We have our travel day tomorrow and we don't know we are going to Manchester or Birmingham. Accordingly, we will cut the cake during the bus drive. We will send you the photos," Rohit added. Watch the video: Is there anyone as candid and funny as @ImRo45? Here's what he had to say when asked about a message for Birthday Boy @msdhoni 😄😁 #TeamIndia #CWC19 #SLvIND pic.twitter.com/aCD23hgKts — BCCI (@BCCI) July 6, 2019 × In the match, Rohit smashed a stunning century and became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup. He is only the fourth batsman after Sachin Tendulkar, Matthew Hayden and Shakib Al Hasan to score more than 600 runs at a single World Cup. India have entered the semi-finals and will lock horns with New Zealand on July 9 for a place in final of Cricket World Cup 2019.

Watch: Rohit Sharma's hilarious response to MS Dhoni's birthday plans

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rohit-sharma-hits-record-fifth-century-at-a-single-world-cup-233640">Rohit Sharma became the first player </a>to make five centuries in a single World Cup match and his opening partner KL Rahul also struck a fluent century as India crushed Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their final group match at Headingley on Saturday.

India had already qualified for the last four and will finish top of the standings if Australia lose to South Africa in their last group match.

Sri Lanka, who failed to reach the semi-finals, slumped to 55-4 in the 12th over before Angelo Mathews smashed his first century in nearly two years to help them to a respectable 264-7.

Rohit and Rahul made a mincemeat of the Sri Lankan attack to add 189 runs, the highest opening stand at this World Cup, which effectively settled the match.

Captain Virat Kohli made 34 not out as India romped home with 39 balls to spare for their seventh win in nine matches.

"We wanted to play good cricket but we didn't expect this kind of scoreline heading into the semis," Kohli said, referring to India's 7-1 win-loss record in the group stage.

If India top the standings they will play New Zealand in the semi-finals and if they finish second they will face hosts England.

"For us the opposition never matters...if we don't play well anyone can beat us," Kohli said. "If we play well we can beat anyone. The focus has to be within."

Sri Lanka pace spearhead Lasith Malinga completed figures of 1-82 in his final World Cup match.

Earlier, Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and unsurprisingly elected to bat in a rematch of the 2011 final between the neighbours.

Jasprit Bumrah rocked the islanders early with a two-wicket burst and Mahendra Singh Dhoni was busy behind the stumps as Sri Lanka lost their top four batsmen soon after crossing the 50-mark.

Both Karunaratne and Kusal Perera fell caught behind off Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja did not have to wait for success in his first match at this year's World Cup.

The left-arm spinner lured Kusal Mendis out of the crease for Dhoni, who was involved in each of the first four dismissals, to effect a simple stumping.

Mathews and Lahiru Thirimanne (53) refused to throw in the towel, though, their defiant 124-run stand raising Sri Lankan hopes.

Dropped on 61 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mathews went on to complete his third one-day century, including two sixes and 10 fours, before Bumrah dismissed him for 113 in the penultimate over.

Sri Lanka toiled for 30 overs without success as Rohit and Rahul flayed their attack all round the ground.

Rohit smacked Dhananjaya de Silva for two sixes, the first one bringing up his 50, and reached his third successive hundred with a boundary off Kasun Rajitha.

The disdain they had for the Sri Lanka attack was best illustrated in the ramp shot Rahul played, bending back and lowering himself before guiding the ball over the wicketkeeper's head to the boundary.

Rohit's onslaught ended on 103 when he drove Rajitha to mid-off and Rahul's 111 included 11 fours and a six.

"We ended up with close to 280 which was a good score," Karunaratne said.

"We kept losing wickets, and didn't capitalise on a good start...But Rohit and Rahul batted really well."

Rohit Sharma became the first player to make five centuries in a single World Cup match and his opening partner KL Rahul also struck a fluent century as India crushed Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their final group match at Headingley on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma became the first player to make five centuries in a single World Cup match and his opening partner KL Rahul also struck a fluent century as India crushed Sri Lanka by seven wickets in their final group match at Headingley on Saturday. India had already qualified for the last four and will finish top of the standings if Australia lose to South Africa in their last group match. Sri Lanka, who failed to reach the semi-finals, slumped to 55-4 in the 12th over before Angelo Mathews smashed his first century in nearly two years to help them to a respectable 264-7. Rohit and Rahul made a mincemeat of the Sri Lankan attack to add 189 runs, the highest opening stand at this World Cup, which effectively settled the match. Captain Virat Kohli made 34 not out as India romped home with 39 balls to spare for their seventh win in nine matches. "We wanted to play good cricket but we didn't expect this kind of scoreline heading into the semis," Kohli said, referring to India's 7-1 win-loss record in the group stage. If India top the standings they will play New Zealand in the semi-finals and if they finish second they will face hosts England. "For us the opposition never matters...if we don't play well anyone can beat us," Kohli said. "If we play well we can beat anyone. The focus has to be within." Sri Lanka pace spearhead Lasith Malinga completed figures of 1-82 in his final World Cup match. Earlier, Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and unsurprisingly elected to bat in a rematch of the 2011 final between the neighbours. Jasprit Bumrah rocked the islanders early with a two-wicket burst and Mahendra Singh Dhoni was busy behind the stumps as Sri Lanka lost their top four batsmen soon after crossing the 50-mark. Both Karunaratne and Kusal Perera fell caught behind off Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja did not have to wait for success in his first match at this year's World Cup. The left-arm spinner lured Kusal Mendis out of the crease for Dhoni, who was involved in each of the first four dismissals, to effect a simple stumping. Mathews and Lahiru Thirimanne (53) refused to throw in the towel, though, their defiant 124-run stand raising Sri Lankan hopes. Dropped on 61 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mathews went on to complete his third one-day century, including two sixes and 10 fours, before Bumrah dismissed him for 113 in the penultimate over. Sri Lanka toiled for 30 overs without success as Rohit and Rahul flayed their attack all round the ground. Rohit smacked Dhananjaya de Silva for two sixes, the first one bringing up his 50, and reached his third successive hundred with a boundary off Kasun Rajitha. The disdain they had for the Sri Lanka attack was best illustrated in the ramp shot Rahul played, bending back and lowering himself before guiding the ball over the wicketkeeper's head to the boundary. Rohit's onslaught ended on 103 when he drove Rajitha to mid-off and Rahul's 111 included 11 fours and a six. "We ended up with close to 280 which was a good score," Karunaratne said. "We kept losing wickets, and didn't capitalise on a good start...But Rohit and Rahul batted really well."

India beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets in Cricket World Cup

Indian opener Rohit Sharma praised pacer Lasith Malinga after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-sri-lanka-by-seven-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-233658">India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka</a> in their final Cricket World Cup group match at Headingley on Saturday.&nbsp;

Rohit and his fellow opener KL Rahul smashed centuries as India registered a comfortable win against Sri Lanka ahead of their semi-final clash.&nbsp;

Malinga played his last one-day match as he had announced ahead of the tournament that he will retire after the World Cup.&nbsp;

The pacer has played a total of 225 ODI matches and 335 wickets and ended his World Cup career as the third-highest wicket-taker in history with 56 wickets behind Glenn Mcgrath and Muttiah Muralitharan.&nbsp;

During the post-match presentation, Rohit was full of praises for the legendary pacer, with whom he has played for Mumbai Indians team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

"He (Malinga) has been a champion bowler for Sri Lanka and then for Mumbai Indians. I have had a great time playing with him," said Rohit.&nbsp;

"He is definitely a match-winner. He has shown it over the years how the teams rely on him. I have seen him in close quarters and the cricket world will miss him," Rohit added.&nbsp;

Popular as run machine, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rohit-sharma-hits-record-fifth-century-at-a-single-world-cup-233640">Rohit made 103 to become the first player to score five centuries</a> in a single World Cup. He took 92 balls with 14 fours and two sixes to hit his fifth century of this World Cup.&nbsp;

The 1996 champions finished their World Cup campaign with three wins, four defeats and two games ending in no result.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma praised pacer Lasith Malinga after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final Cricket World Cup group match at Headingley on Saturday.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma praised pacer Lasith Malinga after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final Cricket World Cup group match at Headingley on Saturday. Rohit and his fellow opener KL Rahul smashed centuries as India registered a comfortable win against Sri Lanka ahead of their semi-final clash. Malinga played his last one-day match as he had announced ahead of the tournament that he will retire after the World Cup. The pacer has played a total of 225 ODI matches and 335 wickets and ended his World Cup career as the third-highest wicket-taker in history with 56 wickets behind Glenn Mcgrath and Muttiah Muralitharan. During the post-match presentation, Rohit was full of praises for the legendary pacer, with whom he has played for Mumbai Indians team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). "He (Malinga) has been a champion bowler for Sri Lanka and then for Mumbai Indians. I have had a great time playing with him," said Rohit. "He is definitely a match-winner. He has shown it over the years how the teams rely on him. I have seen him in close quarters and the cricket world will miss him," Rohit added. Popular as run machine, Rohit made 103 to become the first player to score five centuries in a single World Cup. He took 92 balls with 14 fours and two sixes to hit his fifth century of this World Cup. The 1996 champions finished their World Cup campaign with three wins, four defeats and two games ending in no result.

'Cricket world will miss him': India's Rohit Sharma praises Lasith Malinga

Opening batsman Rohit Sharma became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup as he put India on course for a comfortable win <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-44-sri-lanka-vs-india-233528">against Sri Lanka at Headingley</a> on Saturday.

Sharma reached the milestone with a boundary off Kasun Rajitha to pass the mark set by Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, who scored four hundreds at the 2015 tournament.

He reached his century off 92 balls with 14 fours and two sixes but was dismissed shortly afterwards, caught by Angelo Mathews off the bowling of Rajitha for 103.

Sharma, known as the "hitman", now leads the tournament's run-scoring charts with 647 runs in eight matches after hitting his third successive century.

He is only the fourth batsman after Sachin Tendulkar, Matthew Hayden and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladeshs-shakib-al-hasan-becomes-3rd-cricketer-to-score-600-runs-in-world-cup-233441">Shakib Al Hasan</a> to score more than 600 runs at a single World Cup.

The attacking batsman put on 189 runs for the opening wicket with KL Rahul to put India well on course to reach their target of 265.

The following are the top five batsmen with most centuries at a single World Cup:

- Rohit Sharma, India, 2019, 5* centuries

- Kumar Sangakkara, Sri Lanka, 2015, 4 centuries

- Matthew Hayden, Australia, 2007, 3 centuries

- Mark Waugh, Australia, 1996, 3 centuries

- Sourav Ganguly, India, 2003, 3 centuries

* Rohit can extend his record with India having qualified for the semi-finals.

Opening batsman Rohit Sharma became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup as he put India on course for a comfortable win against Sri Lanka at Headingley on Saturday.

Opening batsman Rohit Sharma became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup as he put India on course for a comfortable win against Sri Lanka at Headingley on Saturday. Sharma reached the milestone with a boundary off Kasun Rajitha to pass the mark set by Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, who scored four hundreds at the 2015 tournament. He reached his century off 92 balls with 14 fours and two sixes but was dismissed shortly afterwards, caught by Angelo Mathews off the bowling of Rajitha for 103. Sharma, known as the "hitman", now leads the tournament's run-scoring charts with 647 runs in eight matches after hitting his third successive century. He is only the fourth batsman after Sachin Tendulkar, Matthew Hayden and Shakib Al Hasan to score more than 600 runs at a single World Cup. The attacking batsman put on 189 runs for the opening wicket with KL Rahul to put India well on course to reach their target of 265. The following are the top five batsmen with most centuries at a single World Cup: - Rohit Sharma, India, 2019, 5* centuries - Kumar Sangakkara, Sri Lanka, 2015, 4 centuries - Matthew Hayden, Australia, 2007, 3 centuries - Mark Waugh, Australia, 1996, 3 centuries - Sourav Ganguly, India, 2003, 3 centuries * Rohit can extend his record with India having qualified for the semi-finals.

India's Rohit Sharma hits record fifth century at a single World Cup

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rohit-sharma-presents-injured-fan-with-yellow-autographed-bat-after-sixer-ball-hit-her-232572">Rohit Sharma</a>, who is in the form of his life.

Rohit produced another sublime innings to notch his fourth hundred of the tournament as India booked their semi-final place with a 28-run win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-yorker-specialist-jasprit-bumrah-reaps-benefits-of-net-practice-232568">Bangladesh </a>at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

The right-hander became only the second batsman, after Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, to score four tons&nbsp;at a single World Cup, prompting captain Virat Kohli to dub him the world's leading one-day player.

Rahul, who moved up the order in the absence of injured Shikhar Dhawan, admitted his transition has been easier as Rohit continues to find boundaries at will, easing the pressure in the opening powerplay.

"You would be a fool to be tempted to bat like Rohit because he is in a different class," Rahul told reporters. "He is from a different planet altogether when he gets going.''

"To bat with him is really easy because he takes the pressure off you. He keeps getting the boundaries and the scoreboard keeps ticking, I just have to keep there with him. It is great fun," he added.

Rahul, whose 77 against Bangladesh was his highest score of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indias-most-passionate-fan-in-world-cup-skipper-virat-kohli-greets-her-232567">World Cup</a>, said he was pleased with his steady progress at the top of the order and feels a big score is around the corner.

"Personally, I feel I have been going well, but am not fully satisfied as I haven't carried on after some of the starts," he added.

"When I say 'convert' I mean getting to say 35 or 45 overs as often as I can because in these conditions it is the set batsmen who can do the most damage," said Rahul.

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner Rohit Sharma, who is in the form of his life.

India batsman KL Rahul has enjoyed a quietly productive Cricket World Cup so far and while he has failed to capitalise on several good starts he feels no need to try to play like opening partner Rohit Sharma, who is in the form of his life. Rohit produced another sublime innings to notch his fourth hundred of the tournament as India booked their semi-final place with a 28-run win over Bangladesh at Edgbaston on Tuesday. The right-hander became only the second batsman, after Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, to score four tons at a single World Cup, prompting captain Virat Kohli to dub him the world's leading one-day player. Rahul, who moved up the order in the absence of injured Shikhar Dhawan, admitted his transition has been easier as Rohit continues to find boundaries at will, easing the pressure in the opening powerplay. "You would be a fool to be tempted to bat like Rohit because he is in a different class," Rahul told reporters. "He is from a different planet altogether when he gets going.'' "To bat with him is really easy because he takes the pressure off you. He keeps getting the boundaries and the scoreboard keeps ticking, I just have to keep there with him. It is great fun," he added. Rahul, whose 77 against Bangladesh was his highest score of the World Cup, said he was pleased with his steady progress at the top of the order and feels a big score is around the corner. "Personally, I feel I have been going well, but am not fully satisfied as I haven't carried on after some of the starts," he added. "When I say 'convert' I mean getting to say 35 or 45 overs as often as I can because in these conditions it is the set batsmen who can do the most damage," said Rahul.

World Cup: Rohit Sharma's batting on a different planet, says KL Rahul

India's opening batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-twin-gems-equalling-kumar-sangakkaras-record-breaking-ms-dhonis-232420">Rohit Sharma presented</a> a young fan with an autographed hat after she was hit by one of the opener's sixes during his century on Tuesday.

Sharma's 104 -- his fourth century of the World Cup -- helped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-beat-bangladesh-by-28-runs-to-make-semis-232562">India clinch a semi-final spot</a> after they defended their total of 314 for nine, beating Bangladesh by 28 runs.

The attacking opener smashed seven fours and five sixes during his 92-ball blitz and one of his hits found the unfortunate Indian fan in the crowd.

Sharma met the girl, identified as Meena, after the match to present a yellow autographed hat.

She was hit in the face by the ball when the supporter in front of her failed to catch it.

Sharma set the tone for India's domination, putting on 180 runs with opening partner KL Rahul, who made 77.

Virat Kohli's India, who have won six of their eight matches, play their final group game against Sri Lanka in Leeds on Saturday.

India's opening batsman Rohit Sharma presented a young fan with an autographed hat after she was hit by one of the opener's sixes during his century on Tuesday. Sharma's 104 -- his fourth century of the World Cup -- helped India clinch a semi-final spot after they defended their total of 314 for nine, beating Bangladesh by 28 runs.

India's opening batsman Rohit Sharma presented a young fan with an autographed hat after she was hit by one of the opener's sixes during his century on Tuesday. Sharma's 104 -- his fourth century of the World Cup -- helped India clinch a semi-final spot after they defended their total of 314 for nine, beating Bangladesh by 28 runs. The attacking opener smashed seven fours and five sixes during his 92-ball blitz and one of his hits found the unfortunate Indian fan in the crowd. Sharma met the girl, identified as Meena, after the match to present a yellow autographed hat. She was hit in the face by the ball when the supporter in front of her failed to catch it. Sharma set the tone for India's domination, putting on 180 runs with opening partner KL Rahul, who made 77. Virat Kohli's India, who have won six of their eight matches, play their final group game against Sri Lanka in Leeds on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma presents injured fan with yellow autographed hat after 'sixer ball' hit her

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday made a decision to step away from cricket and retired from all forms and levels of the game.

In a letter to the BCCI, former India middle-order batsman said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game."

The 33-year-old expressed his gratitude to the national governing body for cricket and all the state associations including Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha, and IPL franchises Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians for their support.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the BCCI&nbsp;and all the state associations that I have represented which include Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha. I also would like to thank the two IPL franchises MI and CSK&nbsp;for their support," he continued.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ambati-rayudu-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-232677">Rayudu </a>also thanked captains MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli under whom he played.

"It has been an honour and privilege to have represented our country. I would like to thank the captains I have played under, MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and especially Virat Kohli who always had shown great belief in me throughout my career with the Indian team," he said.

The former middle-order batsman signed off, saying he learned from every up and down in his career at various levels. He also thanked his family and well-wishers for their continued support.

"It has been a wonderful journey of playing the sport and learning from every up and down it brought upon for the last 25 years at various different levels. Finally, I would like to thank my family and all the wellwishers who have been with me throughout this wonderful journey," he concluded.

The cricketer was snubbed from the World Cup squad and in place of him, all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-shankar-is-three-dimensional-looking-him-at-no-4-msk-prasad-after-naming-indias-world-cup-squad-210607&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXjKKU1JjjAhXBBKYKHUvWBeAQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2djmUPMIhOWcK1oKjiPoYj">Vijay Shankar</a> was given a chance in the team.

While announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad had said, "After the Champions Trophy, we tried a lot of middle-order batsmen, which includes (Dinesh) Karthik as well. We gave Rayudu many chances, but Shankar gives us the ability with the three dimensions (bowling, batting, fielding). If the conditions are suitable, he can come in as an all-rounder. Shankar is a batsman who can bowl, we are looking to play him at number four."

Following the announcement, Rayudu took Twitter and posted a cheeky message.

"Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup," Rayudu had tweeted.

Even after injuries to Shikhar Dhawan and Shankar in the ongoing World Cup, Rayudu was not called into the squad.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-shikhar-dhawan-ruled-out-due-to-thumb-fracture-228686&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8yaOg1JjjAhUP3Y8KHXDCBCgQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2mS-bm7mdctQ6EA_3D8s2Z">Dhawan </a>and Shankar were replaced by Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal, respectively.

Rayudu was a regular member in the Indian squad for the past one year and averaged 47.05 in the ODI format.

He had been team's number four batsman since the Asia Cup last year. He had scored one century and four half-centuries since then.

Rayudu even scored 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paving the way for India's victory.

But he fell off the wagon of late as he was not able to replicate his good performances in the ODI series against Australia.

The batsman played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday made a decision to step away from cricket and retired from all forms and levels of the game. In a letter to the BCCI, former India middle-order batsman said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game.

Ambati Rayudu on Wednesday made a decision to step away from cricket and retired from all forms and levels of the game. In a letter to the BCCI, former India middle-order batsman said, "I have come to decision to step away from the sport and retire from all forms and levels of the game." The 33-year-old expressed his gratitude to the national governing body for cricket and all the state associations including Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha, and IPL franchises Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians for their support. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the BCCI and all the state associations that I have represented which include Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidharbha. I also would like to thank the two IPL franchises MI and CSK for their support," he continued. Rayudu also thanked captains MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli under whom he played. "It has been an honour and privilege to have represented our country. I would like to thank the captains I have played under, MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and especially Virat Kohli who always had shown great belief in me throughout my career with the Indian team," he said. The former middle-order batsman signed off, saying he learned from every up and down in his career at various levels. He also thanked his family and well-wishers for their continued support. "It has been a wonderful journey of playing the sport and learning from every up and down it brought upon for the last 25 years at various different levels. Finally, I would like to thank my family and all the wellwishers who have been with me throughout this wonderful journey," he concluded. The cricketer was snubbed from the World Cup squad and in place of him, all-rounder Vijay Shankar was given a chance in the team. While announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad had said, "After the Champions Trophy, we tried a lot of middle-order batsmen, which includes (Dinesh) Karthik as well. We gave Rayudu many chances, but Shankar gives us the ability with the three dimensions (bowling, batting, fielding). If the conditions are suitable, he can come in as an all-rounder. Shankar is a batsman who can bowl, we are looking to play him at number four." Following the announcement, Rayudu took Twitter and posted a cheeky message. "Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup," Rayudu had tweeted. Even after injuries to Shikhar Dhawan and Shankar in the ongoing World Cup, Rayudu was not called into the squad. Dhawan and Shankar were replaced by Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal, respectively. Rayudu was a regular member in the Indian squad for the past one year and averaged 47.05 in the ODI format. He had been team's number four batsman since the Asia Cup last year. He had scored one century and four half-centuries since then. Rayudu even scored 113-ball 90 in New Zealand earlier this year paving the way for India's victory. But he fell off the wagon of late as he was not able to replicate his good performances in the ODI series against Australia. The batsman played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.

Here's what Ambati Rayudu wrote in retirement letter to BCCI

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan scripted a record on Tuesday as he became the first player in the history to score more than 500 runs and take 10 wickets in a single World Cup campaign.

He achieved the feat against India in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-beat-bangladesh-by-28-runs-to-make-semis-232562">India</a>, Shakib scored 66 runs and took one wicket, but this performance by him was not enough for Bangladesh as they lost the match by 28 runs.

With this loss, Bangladesh semi-final hopes came out to an end.

Shakib has been in tremendous form in the tournament so far and he is just two runs behind India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharmas-batting-on-a-different-planet-says-kl-rahul-232610">Rohit Sharma</a> in the leading run-scorer list in the ongoing World Cup.

The left-handed batsman has scored 542 runs in the tournament. He has scored two centuries and three half-centuries.

Shakib scored back-to-back centuries against England and West Indies. The 32-year-old has been in good form with the ball as well.

The all-rounder has bowled economical spells throughout the tournament. Shakib has a total of 11 wickets in the World Cup so far.

He went on to take a five-wicket haul against Afghanistan and as a result, he became the second player after India's Yuvraj Singh to score 50 runs and take five wickets in the same World Cup match.

In the match between India and Bangladesh, the former won the toss and elected to bat first.

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul provided a solid start to the team as they put up a 180-run stand.

Rahul was dismissed for 77 but Sharma went on to register his fourth century in the tournament.

After Sharma's dismissal, Bangladesh bowlers were able to peg the Indian batsmen back and they restricted the side to 314/9 in 50 overs.

Chasing 315, Bangladesh kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and as soon as Shakib was dismissed, the team faced an uphill battle.

Sabbir Rahman and Mohammad Saifuddin played lower-order cameos, but in Bangladesh fell short by 28 runs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-indias-yorker-specialist-jasprit-bumrah-reaps-benefits-of-net-practice-232568">Jasprit Bumrah</a> starred for India with the ball as he scalped four wickets.

Bangladesh will play against Pakistan in their final match of the tournament on July 5.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan scripted a record on Tuesday as he became the first player in the history to score more than 500 runs and take 10 wickets in a single World Cup campaign.

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan scripted a record on Tuesday as he became the first player in the history to score more than 500 runs and take 10 wickets in a single World Cup campaign. He achieved the feat against India in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Against India, Shakib scored 66 runs and took one wicket, but this performance by him was not enough for Bangladesh as they lost the match by 28 runs. With this loss, Bangladesh semi-final hopes came out to an end. Shakib has been in tremendous form in the tournament so far and he is just two runs behind India's Rohit Sharma in the leading run-scorer list in the ongoing World Cup. The left-handed batsman has scored 542 runs in the tournament. He has scored two centuries and three half-centuries. Shakib scored back-to-back centuries against England and West Indies. The 32-year-old has been in good form with the ball as well. The all-rounder has bowled economical spells throughout the tournament. Shakib has a total of 11 wickets in the World Cup so far. He went on to take a five-wicket haul against Afghanistan and as a result, he became the second player after India's Yuvraj Singh to score 50 runs and take five wickets in the same World Cup match. In the match between India and Bangladesh, the former won the toss and elected to bat first. Indian openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul provided a solid start to the team as they put up a 180-run stand. Rahul was dismissed for 77 but Sharma went on to register his fourth century in the tournament. After Sharma's dismissal, Bangladesh bowlers were able to peg the Indian batsmen back and they restricted the side to 314/9 in 50 overs. Chasing 315, Bangladesh kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and as soon as Shakib was dismissed, the team faced an uphill battle. Sabbir Rahman and Mohammad Saifuddin played lower-order cameos, but in Bangladesh fell short by 28 runs. Jasprit Bumrah starred for India with the ball as he scalped four wickets. Bangladesh will play against Pakistan in their final match of the tournament on July 5.

Shakib Al Hasan becomes first player to score 500 runs, take 10 wickets in World Cup history

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-40-india-vs-bangladesh-232302">India beat Bangladesh by 28 runs</a> on Tuesday to qualify for the semi-finals of the Cricket World Cup and eliminate their neighbours in the process.

Rohit Sharma smashed his fourth century of this year's tournament and featured in a massive 180-run opening partnership with KL Rahul to help India to a commanding 314-9.

Shakib Al Hasan struck a defiant 66 but the lack of partnerships hurt Bangladesh, who were all out for 286 in 48 overs with Bumrah (4-55) sealing the victory by claiming two wickets with the final two deliveries.

India are now second with 13 points, one behind leaders Australia, while Bangladesh are seventh with seven points.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-twin-gems-equalling-kumar-sangakkaras-record-breaking-ms-dhonis-232420">Rohit Sharma's twin gems: Equalling Sangakkara's record, breaking Dhoni's</a>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-bangladesh-15-years-after-odi-debut-dinesh-karthik-named-in-world-cup-playing-xi-232391">15 years after ODI debut, Dinesh Karthik named in World Cup Playing XI</a>

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All smiles for India as they secure qualification to the semi-finals 😄 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/urrRjxeO8t">pic.twitter.com/urrRjxeO8t</a>
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"Bangladesh played some really good cricket and deserve credit for the fight they put up," said India captain Virat Kohli. "We had to work hard for the win and we're happy to see a Q (qualified) in front of our name now."

Earlier, Rohit combined with Rahul (77) for the highest opening partnership at this year's tournament to give India a strong foundation after they elected to bat.

Things could have been vastly different though had Tamim Iqbal not spilled Rohit, then on nine, at midwicket off Mustafizur Rahman who went on to return 5-59.

Rohit capitalised on the reprieve to smash a 92-ball 104, equalling Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara's record of four hundreds in a single World Cup, which earned him the man-of-the-match.

The opener clobbered five of the seven sixes in the Indian innings, besides seven fours, and overtook Australian David Warner as the leading scorer at this tournament.

Soumya Sarkar ended the ominous-looking partnership in the 30th over when Rohit mistimed his drive.

Rahul joined him in the pavilion after bringing up his second half-century of this tournament.

Kohli made 26, his first sub-50 score in his last six innings, and India's middle order again struggled to get going.

Rishabh Pant, who made 48 off 41 balls, scored freely but India could not really capitalise on the fine start.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni made 35 but once again failed to launch a late assault which could have taken India past the 350-mark which had looked well within their reach at one stage.

India played two wicketkeepers -- Pant and Dinesh Karthik -- as specialist batsmen to beef up their misfiring middle order but the woes persisted.

A strong start was imperative to chase down a 300-plus target and Bangladesh were understandably cautious as they embarked on trying to repeat their upset victory against India at the 2007 World Cup.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, returning from a hamstring injury, and Bumrah kept it tight up front but Mohammed Shami drew the first blood for India by dismissing Tamim for 22.

Fellow opener Soumya Sarkar could not convert the start he got into a big innings either, hitting Hardik Pandya straight to Kohli at short extra cover to depart for 33.

Shakib brought up his sixth 50-plus score at the tournament but wickets kept tumbling at the other end.

Mohammad Saifuddin (51 not out) and Sabbir Rahman (36) forged the only 50-plus partnership in the Bangladesh innings but they never really threatened to pull off a difficult chase.

"It was a good effort - Mustafizur bowled well - but if one of the batsmen could have got to 80 or 90 it might have been different," Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said.

"We were asking too much in the end. A bit of luck didn't go our way either."

India beat Bangladesh by 28 runs on Tuesday to qualify for the semi-finals of the Cricket World Cup and eliminate their neighbours in the process. Rohit Sharma smashed his fourth century of this year's tournament and featured in a massive 180-run opening partnership with KL Rahul to help India to a commanding 314-9.

India beat Bangladesh by 28 runs on Tuesday to qualify for the semi-finals of the Cricket World Cup and eliminate their neighbours in the process. Rohit Sharma smashed his fourth century of this year's tournament and featured in a massive 180-run opening partnership with KL Rahul to help India to a commanding 314-9. Shakib Al Hasan struck a defiant 66 but the lack of partnerships hurt Bangladesh, who were all out for 286 in 48 overs with Bumrah (4-55) sealing the victory by claiming two wickets with the final two deliveries. India are now second with 13 points, one behind leaders Australia, while Bangladesh are seventh with seven points. Also Read: Rohit Sharma's twin gems: Equalling Sangakkara's record, breaking Dhoni's Also Read: 15 years after ODI debut, Dinesh Karthik named in World Cup Playing XI All smiles for India as they secure qualification to the semi-finals 😄 #CWC19 | #BANvIND pic.twitter.com/urrRjxeO8t — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 2, 2019 × "Bangladesh played some really good cricket and deserve credit for the fight they put up," said India captain Virat Kohli. "We had to work hard for the win and we're happy to see a Q (qualified) in front of our name now." Earlier, Rohit combined with Rahul (77) for the highest opening partnership at this year's tournament to give India a strong foundation after they elected to bat. Things could have been vastly different though had Tamim Iqbal not spilled Rohit, then on nine, at midwicket off Mustafizur Rahman who went on to return 5-59. Rohit capitalised on the reprieve to smash a 92-ball 104, equalling Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara's record of four hundreds in a single World Cup, which earned him the man-of-the-match. The opener clobbered five of the seven sixes in the Indian innings, besides seven fours, and overtook Australian David Warner as the leading scorer at this tournament. Soumya Sarkar ended the ominous-looking partnership in the 30th over when Rohit mistimed his drive. Rahul joined him in the pavilion after bringing up his second half-century of this tournament. Kohli made 26, his first sub-50 score in his last six innings, and India's middle order again struggled to get going. Rishabh Pant, who made 48 off 41 balls, scored freely but India could not really capitalise on the fine start. Mahendra Singh Dhoni made 35 but once again failed to launch a late assault which could have taken India past the 350-mark which had looked well within their reach at one stage. India played two wicketkeepers -- Pant and Dinesh Karthik -- as specialist batsmen to beef up their misfiring middle order but the woes persisted. A strong start was imperative to chase down a 300-plus target and Bangladesh were understandably cautious as they embarked on trying to repeat their upset victory against India at the 2007 World Cup. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, returning from a hamstring injury, and Bumrah kept it tight up front but Mohammed Shami drew the first blood for India by dismissing Tamim for 22. Fellow opener Soumya Sarkar could not convert the start he got into a big innings either, hitting Hardik Pandya straight to Kohli at short extra cover to depart for 33. Shakib brought up his sixth 50-plus score at the tournament but wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Mohammad Saifuddin (51 not out) and Sabbir Rahman (36) forged the only 50-plus partnership in the Bangladesh innings but they never really threatened to pull off a difficult chase. "It was a good effort - Mustafizur bowled well - but if one of the batsmen could have got to 80 or 90 it might have been different," Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said. "We were asking too much in the end. A bit of luck didn't go our way either."

World Cup: India beat Bangladesh by 28 runs to make semis

Players to watch out for in India vs Bangladesh World Cup clash

Cricket World Cup 2019: Asian dominance in Britishers' game

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke MS Dhoni's record of hitting most One-Day International sixes by an Indian player&nbsp;in Tuesday's league match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Rohit hit five giant sixes in his 104-run knock at Edgbaston and took his tally to 230 to set the record of hitting most ODI sixes by an Indian batsman in ODI format.&nbsp;

Rohit also became the first Indian batsman to hit four centuries in World Cup tournament.&nbsp;

Overall, he is the second player to hit four tons in a World Cup edition as previously, Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara had achieved this feat in the World Cup 2015.&nbsp;

CWC19 Match 40 - India vs Bangladesh:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-40-india-vs-bangladesh-232302">Click here</a>&nbsp;for live updates

In the match against Bangladesh, India opted to bat first post winning the toss. Sharma survived an early scare to take control against the bowlers.

Sharma, who was dropped on nine by Tamim Iqbal at deep mid-wicket, reached his second successive ton with a single off Shakib Al Hasan, celebrating by flipping his bat in the air.

But he was caught at extra cover by Liton Das off the bowling of Soumya Sarkar for 104, ending a 180-run opening stand -- the best for the first wicket in this World Cup -- with KL Rahul.&nbsp;

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Four hundreds in the tournament! 
 
What a stellar innings that was from Rohit Sharma. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/3wFlF5DWd9">pic.twitter.com/3wFlF5DWd9</a>
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India needing to win one of their remaining two group matches to guarantee a place in the last four. Next, they will play against Sri Lanka on July 6.&nbsp;

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke MS Dhoni's record of hitting most One-Day International sixes by an Indian player in Tuesday's league match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against Bangladesh.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke MS Dhoni's record of hitting most One-Day International sixes by an Indian player in Tuesday's league match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against Bangladesh. Rohit hit five giant sixes in his 104-run knock at Edgbaston and took his tally to 230 to set the record of hitting most ODI sixes by an Indian batsman in ODI format. Rohit also became the first Indian batsman to hit four centuries in World Cup tournament. Overall, he is the second player to hit four tons in a World Cup edition as previously, Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara had achieved this feat in the World Cup 2015. CWC19 Match 40 - India vs Bangladesh: Click here for live updates In the match against Bangladesh, India opted to bat first post winning the toss. Sharma survived an early scare to take control against the bowlers. Sharma, who was dropped on nine by Tamim Iqbal at deep mid-wicket, reached his second successive ton with a single off Shakib Al Hasan, celebrating by flipping his bat in the air. But he was caught at extra cover by Liton Das off the bowling of Soumya Sarkar for 104, ending a 180-run opening stand -- the best for the first wicket in this World Cup -- with KL Rahul. Four hundreds in the tournament! What a stellar innings that was from Rohit Sharma. #TeamIndia | #BANvIND | #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/3wFlF5DWd9 — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 2, 2019 × India needing to win one of their remaining two group matches to guarantee a place in the last four. Next, they will play against Sri Lanka on July 6.

Rohit Sharma's twin gems: Equalling Sangakkara's record, breaking Dhoni's

India's winning streak in the Cricket World Cup 2019 came to an end after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-england-end-indias-unbeaten-run-to-revive-semis-hopes-231858">England defeated the Virat Kohli-led side by 31 runs</a> in Sunday's group match&nbsp;at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

Despite Rohit Sharma's century and Virat Kohli's 66, India failed to chase down the 338-run target.&nbsp;

Debutant Rishabh Pant, who looked nervous in the start, came in to bat at number fourth spot in the absence of Vijay Shankar and scored 32 runs off 29 balls.&nbsp;

During the post-match interview, Rohit was asked, whether he was surprised to see Pant ahead of the in-form Hardik Pandya.&nbsp;

Rohit's gave a hilarious reply, saying, "Not really (surprised) because you all wanted Rishabh Pant to play right? Right from the time we left India, you all kept on asking where is Rishabh Pant. There he is at No.4."

Watch Rohit's response:

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Vice-captain <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> lightened up the post-match press conference when asked about Rishabh Pant 😁😁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/NSv3zVqFT3">pic.twitter.com/NSv3zVqFT3</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1145415707913363457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India's middle batting order was also questioned, especially MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav for their slow innings but Rohit defended both the batsmen for their batting&nbsp;approach in the death overs.&nbsp;

"When you lose matches, there will be questions that why we lost the game? We lost Rahul pretty early, England bowled really well in the first ten overs. It was important that guy who's in form goes on to convert his start," Rohit said. &nbsp;

"We knew the longer we bat, we will have more chances of winning the match. The pitch got really slow at the end and English bowlers bowled really well in the death overs," he added.

India will next play Bangladesh on July 2.&nbsp;

India's winning streak in the Cricket World Cup 2019 came to an end after England defeated the Virat Kohli-led side by 31 runs in Sunday's group match at Edgbaston.

India's winning streak in the Cricket World Cup 2019 came to an end after England defeated the Virat Kohli-led side by 31 runs in Sunday's group match at Edgbaston. Despite Rohit Sharma's century and Virat Kohli's 66, India failed to chase down the 338-run target. Debutant Rishabh Pant, who looked nervous in the start, came in to bat at number fourth spot in the absence of Vijay Shankar and scored 32 runs off 29 balls. During the post-match interview, Rohit was asked, whether he was surprised to see Pant ahead of the in-form Hardik Pandya. Rohit's gave a hilarious reply, saying, "Not really (surprised) because you all wanted Rishabh Pant to play right? Right from the time we left India, you all kept on asking where is Rishabh Pant. There he is at No.4." Watch Rohit's response: Vice-captain @ImRo45 lightened up the post-match press conference when asked about Rishabh Pant 😁😁 #TeamIndia #ENGvIND #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/NSv3zVqFT3 — BCCI (@BCCI) June 30, 2019 × India's middle batting order was also questioned, especially MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav for their slow innings but Rohit defended both the batsmen for their batting approach in the death overs. "When you lose matches, there will be questions that why we lost the game? We lost Rahul pretty early, England bowled really well in the first ten overs. It was important that guy who's in form goes on to convert his start," Rohit said. "We knew the longer we bat, we will have more chances of winning the match. The pitch got really slow at the end and English bowlers bowled really well in the death overs," he added. India will next play Bangladesh on July 2.

Watch: Rohit Sharma's hilarious response on Rishabh Pant playing at number fourth position

India is the only team in Cricket World Cup 2019 to remain unbeaten so far <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-34-west-indies-vs-india-230819">after defeating West Indies</a> at Manchester's Old Trafford on Thursday.

Virat Kohli-led side has played a total six matches, won five and one was abandoned.&nbsp;

Australia, already qualified for the semis, have played a total of seven matches, winning six and losing one.&nbsp;

New Zealand won five and lost one out of their seven played contests and England have lost three out of their seven matches.&nbsp;

Bangladesh and Pakistan, both won three out of their seven games. Sri Lanka played six matches winning two.&nbsp;

West Indies, South Africa and Afghanistan have been knocked out from the race of semi-finals.&nbsp;

India's journey so far...&nbsp;

India started their World Cup campaign on a winning note with a six-wicket win over South Africa in Southampton.&nbsp;

After that, India's opener Shikhar Dhawan scored a century (117) to inspire India towards 36-run win over the defending champions Australia.&nbsp;

However, Dhawan's World Cup campaign ended after Australia clash as a Nathan Coulter-Nile's rising delivery injured Dhawan's left thumb.&nbsp;

The injury turned out to be a fracture eventually ruling him out of the tournament. He was replaced by young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

After Australia, India's third match against New Zealand was washed out without toss in Nottingham, both teams shared one point each.&nbsp;

'Men in Blue' then locked horns with Pakistan and extended their unblemished World Cup record against their arch-rivals to 7-0 after securing an 89-run victory via the Duckworth-Lewis method.&nbsp;

Next, in a last over thriller, India registered an 11-run win over Afghanistan in the 28th match of the tournament in Southampton.&nbsp;

In their fifth match against World Cup minnows Afganistan, India got a &nbsp;reality check when a brilliant bowling display, they restricted India to 224 for eight and Mohammad Nabi had almost pulled off a win, taking the contest to the last over.&nbsp;

But Indian pacer Mohammed Shami struck thrice (grabbed a hat-trick) in the final over to inspire India towards victory.&nbsp;

In their sixth encounter, India defeated West Indies by 125 runs to keep their winning momentum going.&nbsp;

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With that win over West Indies, India have climbed to No. 2️⃣ on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> standings. 
 
Give us your semifinalists: 
 
1. _________ 
2. _________ 
3. _________ 
4. _________<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/a34QdvA4Hw">pic.twitter.com/a34QdvA4Hw</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1144290919807692806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Next, India will play against England (June 30), Bangladesh (July 2) and Sri Lanka (July 6).&nbsp;

India is the only team in Cricket World Cup 2019 to remain unbeaten so far after defeating West Indies at Manchester's Old Trafford on Thursday. Virat Kohli-led side has played a total six matches, won five and one was abandoned.

India is the only team in Cricket World Cup 2019 to remain unbeaten so far after defeating West Indies at Manchester's Old Trafford on Thursday. Virat Kohli-led side has played a total six matches, won five and one was abandoned. Australia, already qualified for the semis, have played a total of seven matches, winning six and losing one. New Zealand won five and lost one out of their seven played contests and England have lost three out of their seven matches. Bangladesh and Pakistan, both won three out of their seven games. Sri Lanka played six matches winning two. West Indies, South Africa and Afghanistan have been knocked out from the race of semi-finals. India's journey so far... India started their World Cup campaign on a winning note with a six-wicket win over South Africa in Southampton. After that, India's opener Shikhar Dhawan scored a century (117) to inspire India towards 36-run win over the defending champions Australia. However, Dhawan's World Cup campaign ended after Australia clash as a Nathan Coulter-Nile's rising delivery injured Dhawan's left thumb. The injury turned out to be a fracture eventually ruling him out of the tournament. He was replaced by young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant. After Australia, India's third match against New Zealand was washed out without toss in Nottingham, both teams shared one point each. 'Men in Blue' then locked horns with Pakistan and extended their unblemished World Cup record against their arch-rivals to 7-0 after securing an 89-run victory via the Duckworth-Lewis method. Next, in a last over thriller, India registered an 11-run win over Afghanistan in the 28th match of the tournament in Southampton. In their fifth match against World Cup minnows Afganistan, India got a reality check when a brilliant bowling display, they restricted India to 224 for eight and Mohammad Nabi had almost pulled off a win, taking the contest to the last over. But Indian pacer Mohammed Shami struck thrice (grabbed a hat-trick) in the final over to inspire India towards victory. In their sixth encounter, India defeated West Indies by 125 runs to keep their winning momentum going. With that win over West Indies, India have climbed to No. 2️⃣ on the #CWC19 standings. Give us your semifinalists: 1. _________ 2. _________ 3. _________ 4. _________#WIvIND pic.twitter.com/a34QdvA4Hw — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 27, 2019 × Next, India will play against England (June 30), Bangladesh (July 2) and Sri Lanka (July 6).

Virat Kohli's Team India currently only unbeaten team in Cricket World Cup 2019

India opener Rohit Sharma Friday took to the social media to express his disappointment over his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharmas-controversial-dismissal-divides-fans-and-spectators-230883">controversial dismissal against the West Indies</a>&nbsp;on Thursday.&nbsp;

Rohit, who was ruled out on 18 off 23 balls, posted a close-up picture of his dismissal on his official Twitter page, suggesting that there was a significant gap between the bat and ball.&nbsp;

The picture posted by Rohit indicates that the ball clipped his right pad instead of the bat.

Rohit was visibly disappointed after being given out caught behind by wicketkeeper Shai Hope of the bowling of Kemar Roach in the match on Thursday.&nbsp;

The right-hander was deceived by an in-swinging delivery from Roach in the final ball of the sixth over and the West Indies team went up in appeal for caught behind, suggesting Rohit had got an inside-edge onto the wicketkeeper.

On-field umpire Richard Illingworth ruled it not-out but West Indies captain Jason Holder went for the review and third umpire Michael Gough overturned the call in the Caribbean side's favour.&nbsp;

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🤦‍♂️👀 <a href="https://t.co/0RH6VeU6YB">pic.twitter.com/0RH6VeU6YB</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1144525516550152192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The third umpire seemed to have gone by the snicko after repeated replays showed there was a gap between the bat and ball.

India opener Rohit Sharma Friday took to the social media to express his disappointment over his controversial dismissal against the West Indies on Thursday. Rohit, who was ruled out on 18 off 23 balls, posted a close-up picture of his dismissal on his official Twitter page, suggesting that there was a significant gap between the bat and ball.

India opener Rohit Sharma Friday took to the social media to express his disappointment over his controversial dismissal against the West Indies on Thursday. Rohit, who was ruled out on 18 off 23 balls, posted a close-up picture of his dismissal on his official Twitter page, suggesting that there was a significant gap between the bat and ball. The picture posted by Rohit indicates that the ball clipped his right pad instead of the bat. Rohit was visibly disappointed after being given out caught behind by wicketkeeper Shai Hope of the bowling of Kemar Roach in the match on Thursday. The right-hander was deceived by an in-swinging delivery from Roach in the final ball of the sixth over and the West Indies team went up in appeal for caught behind, suggesting Rohit had got an inside-edge onto the wicketkeeper. On-field umpire Richard Illingworth ruled it not-out but West Indies captain Jason Holder went for the review and third umpire Michael Gough overturned the call in the Caribbean side's favour. 🤦‍♂️👀 pic.twitter.com/0RH6VeU6YB — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) June 28, 2019 × The third umpire seemed to have gone by the snicko after repeated replays showed there was a gap between the bat and ball.

World Cup: Rohit Sharma takes to Twitter to suggest he was not out against West Indies

India overwhelmed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-34-west-indies-vs-india-230819">West Indies by 125 runs</a> on Thursday to continue their march to the Cricket World Cup semi-finals and send the Caribbean team out of the tournament.

Virat Kohli top-scored with 72 to lay the foundations for India's 268 for seven after electing to bat first at Manchester's Old Trafford.

The Indian bowlers, led by paceman Mohammed Shami, then dismissed West Indies for 143 in 34.2 overs to end the West Indies' hopes of progressing.

India, who have displaced England as the top-ranked one-day team, remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament and need just one victory from their remaining three league games to guarantee a semi-finals berth.

West Indies joined Afghanistan and South Africa as the three teams to bow out of the race for the final four so far.

"We can't complain, we have just become the number one side in the world and we have been playing like that for a while now," said captain and man-of-the-match Kohli.

"Things hadn't gone our way with the bat in the last few games but we have found a way to win."

Shami, who took a hat-trick in the previous game, returned figures of 4-16, removing the dangerous Chris Gayle early after a scratchy innings from the opener.

Kohli record

But it was Kohli who set up the win as he became fastest batsman to reach 20,000 international runs in his 417th innings -- India's Sachin Tendulkar and Caribbean batsman Brian Lara both required 453 international innings to reach the landmark.

Wicketkeeper-batsman M.S. Dhoni and Hardik Pandya boosted the total, putting on 70 runs for the sixth wicket to punish the otherwise-disciplined bowlers.

Pandya hit 46 off 38 balls while Dhoni remained unbeaten on 56, ending the innings with a big six.

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4/40 against Afghanistan and now 4/16 against West Indies – Mohammed Shami has made quite the entry at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/9xPsESV18h">pic.twitter.com/9xPsESV18h</a>
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The West Indies bowlers, led by paceman Kemar Roach, had kept India in check until the latter stages, stemming the flow of runs with regular wickets.

Roach returned impressive figures of 3-36 in his 10 overs, including the wicket of India opener Rohit Sharma for 18.

Kohli, whose 82-ball knock included eight boundaries, extended his fine run of form with some eye-catching shots that charmed a partisan crowd at Old Trafford.

West Indies were in trouble early in their reply when Gayle mistimed a short ball from Shami and was caught by Kedar Jadhav to the left of mid-on after struggling to just six runs off 19 balls.

Shai Hope tried to take the Shami on and hit him for a boundary but the bowler responded by rattling his stumps with the next ball as West Indies slipped to 16-2.

It was all downhill from there for a struggling Caribbean side who failed to maintain momentum after their opening World Cup win against Pakistan.

Paceman Jasprit Bumrah and leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal took two wickets each.

West Indies captain Jason Holder said: "The bowlers did a fantastic job on this surface. I couldn't ask for more but we let ourselves down with the bat.

"We didn't seize the moment but I would have taken chasing 268. We didn't do it.

"We have let ourselves down significantly in this tournament. The bowlers had a reasonable campaign but our batting has been too inconsistent. This is our weakest format of the three."

Two-time champions India next play hosts England in Birmingham on Sunday.

Match in numbers:

<img alt="Match 34" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dd0926c4-555f-4399-8c82-c8cc74dce4f5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2034_0.jpg" />

&nbsp;

India overwhelmed West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday to continue their march to the Cricket World Cup semi-finals and send the Caribbean team out of the tournament.

India overwhelmed West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday to continue their march to the Cricket World Cup semi-finals and send the Caribbean team out of the tournament. Virat Kohli top-scored with 72 to lay the foundations for India's 268 for seven after electing to bat first at Manchester's Old Trafford. The Indian bowlers, led by paceman Mohammed Shami, then dismissed West Indies for 143 in 34.2 overs to end the West Indies' hopes of progressing. India, who have displaced England as the top-ranked one-day team, remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament and need just one victory from their remaining three league games to guarantee a semi-finals berth. West Indies joined Afghanistan and South Africa as the three teams to bow out of the race for the final four so far. "We can't complain, we have just become the number one side in the world and we have been playing like that for a while now," said captain and man-of-the-match Kohli. "Things hadn't gone our way with the bat in the last few games but we have found a way to win." Shami, who took a hat-trick in the previous game, returned figures of 4-16, removing the dangerous Chris Gayle early after a scratchy innings from the opener. Kohli record But it was Kohli who set up the win as he became fastest batsman to reach 20,000 international runs in his 417th innings -- India's Sachin Tendulkar and Caribbean batsman Brian Lara both required 453 international innings to reach the landmark. Wicketkeeper-batsman M.S. Dhoni and Hardik Pandya boosted the total, putting on 70 runs for the sixth wicket to punish the otherwise-disciplined bowlers. Pandya hit 46 off 38 balls while Dhoni remained unbeaten on 56, ending the innings with a big six. 4/40 against Afghanistan and now 4/16 against West Indies – Mohammed Shami has made quite the entry at #CWC19#WIvIND | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/9xPsESV18h — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 27, 2019 × The West Indies bowlers, led by paceman Kemar Roach, had kept India in check until the latter stages, stemming the flow of runs with regular wickets. Roach returned impressive figures of 3-36 in his 10 overs, including the wicket of India opener Rohit Sharma for 18. Kohli, whose 82-ball knock included eight boundaries, extended his fine run of form with some eye-catching shots that charmed a partisan crowd at Old Trafford. West Indies were in trouble early in their reply when Gayle mistimed a short ball from Shami and was caught by Kedar Jadhav to the left of mid-on after struggling to just six runs off 19 balls. Shai Hope tried to take the Shami on and hit him for a boundary but the bowler responded by rattling his stumps with the next ball as West Indies slipped to 16-2. It was all downhill from there for a struggling Caribbean side who failed to maintain momentum after their opening World Cup win against Pakistan. Paceman Jasprit Bumrah and leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal took two wickets each. West Indies captain Jason Holder said: "The bowlers did a fantastic job on this surface. I couldn't ask for more but we let ourselves down with the bat. "We didn't seize the moment but I would have taken chasing 268. We didn't do it. "We have let ourselves down significantly in this tournament. The bowlers had a reasonable campaign but our batting has been too inconsistent. This is our weakest format of the three." Two-time champions India next play hosts England in Birmingham on Sunday. Match in numbers:

World Cup: India crush West Indies by 125 runs

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