With the introduction of the T20 format, one thing has happened for sure – bilateral cricket suffered. Moreover, with the addition of franchise-based T20 leagues around the world, this idea of the 50-over format dying a slow death is becoming a reality. Former legends of the game - India’s Ravi Shastri and Australia’s Tom Moody echoed the same concern.

Both feel the expansion of the T20 format and IPL, in particular, will influence players, which will be to such an extent that they will sign long-term contracts that will see them playing for multiple leagues. Earlier, even FICA confirmed that several informal conversations between unnamed players and franchises took place over the same.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s Runorder, Moody, who had coached IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad in the past, feels with IPL owners buying stakes and teams in different leagues, their footprint is growing, and they will influence the upcoming generation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-set-to-tour-south-africa-for-3-t20is-5-odis-ahead-of-2023-world-cup-589193">Australia set to tour South Africa for 3 T20Is, 5 ODIs ahead of 2023 World Cup</a>

"We have seen that slowly shift in the last couple of years when IPL teams look to buy other franchises around the world. The reason we start talking about this is because each IPL team is looking for a bigger footprint in the game. It might not be financially beneficial for them to be doing that, but they are looking at the long-term benefit of having a greater stake of the time in the calendar year," Moody told ESPNcricinfo.

Meanwhile, the ODI World Cup winner - Shastri opines that cricket is going the football way, and in times to come, players will get involved in franchise cricket throughout the year; and it would just be around the World Cup time when teams will release players, and they would assemble to play a few bilateral games.

&nbsp;

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"I have always said that the bilateral cricket will suffer, there is no question about that. With the leagues spreading around the world, it's going to go the football way. The teams will assemble just before the World Cup, they play a little bit of bilateral, clubs will release the players and you play the mega World Cup. So it's going to go that way in the long run whether you like it or not,” Shastri said.

Adding to this, Shastri said though he doesn’t feel bad about this change coming cricket’s way, he thinks in between all of this, the 50-over format is going to suffer the most. 
Moody, while backing the claim, said the T10 format – which is still very new among a lot of fans, mostly the traditional ones could replace the 50-over format in times to come. He also said that only a handful of teams will continue to play Tests, with others trying to succeed in the shorter formats.

"That really tells me that there are only going to be few countries that are going to be playing Test cricket, as simple as that," Moody said. "Rest are going to focus on white-ball cricket, and I will add another format that may replace the 50-over cricket, and that may be T10. I see that as a potential, not a game-changer, but a movement towards the next step ahead for the IPL to consider if they want to expand what is an incredibly successful property," Moody further added.

With the introduction of the T20 format, one thing has happened for sure – bilateral cricket suffered. Moreover, with the addition of franchise-based T20 leagues around the world, this idea of the 50-over format dying a slow death is becoming a reality.

With the introduction of the T20 format, one thing has happened for sure – bilateral cricket suffered. Moreover, with the addition of franchise-based T20 leagues around the world, this idea of the 50-over format dying a slow death is becoming a reality. Former legends of the game - India’s Ravi Shastri and Australia’s Tom Moody echoed the same concern. Both feel the expansion of the T20 format and IPL, in particular, will influence players, which will be to such an extent that they will sign long-term contracts that will see them playing for multiple leagues. Earlier, even FICA confirmed that several informal conversations between unnamed players and franchises took place over the same. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s Runorder, Moody, who had coached IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad in the past, feels with IPL owners buying stakes and teams in different leagues, their footprint is growing, and they will influence the upcoming generation. ALSO READ: Australia set to tour South Africa for 3 T20Is, 5 ODIs ahead of 2023 World Cup "We have seen that slowly shift in the last couple of years when IPL teams look to buy other franchises around the world. The reason we start talking about this is because each IPL team is looking for a bigger footprint in the game. It might not be financially beneficial for them to be doing that, but they are looking at the long-term benefit of having a greater stake of the time in the calendar year," Moody told ESPNcricinfo. Meanwhile, the ODI World Cup winner - Shastri opines that cricket is going the football way, and in times to come, players will get involved in franchise cricket throughout the year; and it would just be around the World Cup time when teams will release players, and they would assemble to play a few bilateral games. "I have always said that the bilateral cricket will suffer, there is no question about that. With the leagues spreading around the world, it's going to go the football way. The teams will assemble just before the World Cup, they play a little bit of bilateral, clubs will release the players and you play the mega World Cup. So it's going to go that way in the long run whether you like it or not,” Shastri said. Adding to this, Shastri said though he doesn’t feel bad about this change coming cricket’s way, he thinks in between all of this, the 50-over format is going to suffer the most. Moody, while backing the claim, said the T10 format – which is still very new among a lot of fans, mostly the traditional ones could replace the 50-over format in times to come. He also said that only a handful of teams will continue to play Tests, with others trying to succeed in the shorter formats. "That really tells me that there are only going to be few countries that are going to be playing Test cricket, as simple as that," Moody said. "Rest are going to focus on white-ball cricket, and I will add another format that may replace the 50-over cricket, and that may be T10. I see that as a potential, not a game-changer, but a movement towards the next step ahead for the IPL to consider if they want to expand what is an incredibly successful property," Moody further added.

Bilateral cricket will suffer at expense of growing T20 leagues around the world, say former legends

BAN vs ENG 1st T20I: The England cricket team is touring Bangladesh in March 2023 to play three ODIs and three T20I matches. The ODI series, which is in its leg right now, is part of the inaugural 2022-23 ICC World Cup Super League. It is the first bilateral T20I series between the two teams and England’s first tour of Bangladesh since 2016. Initially, the tour was scheduled to take place in September and October 2021, with the T20I matches having been used as preparation for the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. However, in August 2021, the tour was postponed due to fixture congestion and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed that they were in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to reschedule the matches before the cut-off time of the Super League. On August 3, 2021, the ECB confirmed that the tour had been re-arranged for March 2023. On December 27, 2022, both BCB and ECB confirmed the fixtures of the tour. However, later in January 2023, the tour matches were cancelled by the ECB due to the non-availability of several players and a busy international schedule.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>BAN vs ENG T20I: Schedule</h2>

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		<col style="width:136pt" width="181" />
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			<td class="xl65" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; background:#d8d8d8; border-left:none; width:131pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; white-space:nowrap" width="175">Fixture&nbsp;</td>
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			<td class="xl65" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; background:#d8d8d8; border-left:none; width:136pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; white-space:nowrap" width="181">Venue&nbsp;</td>
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			<td class="xl66" height="57" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:43.0pt; border-top:none; width:48pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="64">Mar-09</td>
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			<td class="xl68" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:148pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="197">5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT/ 6:00 Local time&nbsp;</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:136pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="181">Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium&nbsp;</td>
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			<td class="xl66" height="63" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:47.0pt; border-top:none; width:48pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="64">Mar-12</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:131pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="175">BAN vs ENG, 2nd T20I&nbsp;</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:148pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="197">5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT/ 6:00 Local time&nbsp;</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:136pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="181">Shere Bangla National Stadium&nbsp;</td>
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			<td class="xl66" height="109" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:81.5pt; border-top:none; width:48pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="64">Mar-14</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:131pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="175">BAN vs ENG, 3rd T20I&nbsp;</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:148pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="197">5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT/ 6:00 Local time&nbsp;</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; width:136pt; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; white-space:normal; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px" width="181">Shere Bangla National Stadium&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2>BAN vs ENG 1st T20I: Squad details&nbsp;</h2>

Bangladesh: Shakib&nbsp;Al Hasan (c), Litton Das (wk), Nurul Hasan (wk), Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mustafizur Rahman, Rejaur Rahman Raja, Rony Talukdar, Shamim Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Towhid Hridoy.&nbsp;(For the first two matches)

England:&nbsp;Jos Buttler (c &amp; wk), Phil Salt (wk), Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Dawid Malan, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed, Reece Topley, Chris Woakes.&nbsp;&nbsp;(For the first two matches)

<h2>BAN vs ENG: ODI series result&nbsp;</h2>

1st ODI match:&nbsp;England won by 3 wickets&nbsp;

2nd ODI match:&nbsp;England won by 132 runs&nbsp;

3rd ODI match:&nbsp;&nbsp;Bangladesh won by 50 runs&nbsp;

<h2 id="2">When will the T20I series between Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) start?-Date</h2>

The T20I series&nbsp;will be conducted on&nbsp;March 9, Thursday.

<h2 id="4">Where will the T20I series Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) be played?-Venue</h2>

The high-profile T20I series will be played at the&nbsp;Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury in Chattogram and Shere Bangla Stadium in Dhaka.&nbsp;

<h2 id="6">Which TV channels will broadcast Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) T20I series?</h2>

Bangladesh vs England T20I series will not be televised in India.

<h2 id="10">How do I watch the live streaming of Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) T20I series?</h2>

Bangladesh vs England T20I series is available to be streamed live on the FanCode app and website.

&nbsp;

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BAN vs ENG 1st T20I: The England cricket team is touring Bangladesh in March 2023 to play three ODIs and three T20I matches. The ODI series, which is in its leg right now, is part of the inaugural 2022-23 ICC World Cup Super League.

BAN vs ENG 1st T20I: The England cricket team is touring Bangladesh in March 2023 to play three ODIs and three T20I matches. The ODI series, which is in its leg right now, is part of the inaugural 2022-23 ICC World Cup Super League. It is the first bilateral T20I series between the two teams and England’s first tour of Bangladesh since 2016. Initially, the tour was scheduled to take place in September and October 2021, with the T20I matches having been used as preparation for the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. However, in August 2021, the tour was postponed due to fixture congestion and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed that they were in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to reschedule the matches before the cut-off time of the Super League. On August 3, 2021, the ECB confirmed that the tour had been re-arranged for March 2023. On December 27, 2022, both BCB and ECB confirmed the fixtures of the tour. However, later in January 2023, the tour matches were cancelled by the ECB due to the non-availability of several players and a busy international schedule. BAN vs ENG T20I: Schedule Date Fixture Time Venue Mar-09 BAN vs ENG, 1st T20I 5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT/ 6:00 Local time Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium Mar-12 BAN vs ENG, 2nd T20I 5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT/ 6:00 Local time Shere Bangla National Stadium Mar-14 BAN vs ENG, 3rd T20I 5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT/ 6:00 Local time Shere Bangla National Stadium BAN vs ENG 1st T20I: Squad details Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan (c), Litton Das (wk), Nurul Hasan (wk), Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mustafizur Rahman, Rejaur Rahman Raja, Rony Talukdar, Shamim Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Towhid Hridoy. (For the first two matches) England: Jos Buttler (c & wk), Phil Salt (wk), Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Dawid Malan, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed, Reece Topley, Chris Woakes. (For the first two matches) BAN vs ENG: ODI series result 1st ODI match: England won by 3 wickets 2nd ODI match: England won by 132 runs 3rd ODI match: Bangladesh won by 50 runs When will the T20I series between Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) start?-Date The T20I series will be conducted on March 9, Thursday. Where will the T20I series Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) be played?-Venue The high-profile T20I series will be played at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury in Chattogram and Shere Bangla Stadium in Dhaka. Which TV channels will broadcast Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) T20I series? Bangladesh vs England T20I series will not be televised in India. How do I watch the live streaming of Bangladesh (BAN) vs England (ENG) T20I series? Bangladesh vs England T20I series is available to be streamed live on the FanCode app and website. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BAN vs ENG 1st T20I: Date, squads, live streaming & all you need to know about England tour of Bangladesh

On Sunday (February 26), Isle of Man recorded the lowest-ever T20 score. The&nbsp;Carl Haartman-led side bundled out for a mere 10 runs in 8.4 overs versus Spain&nbsp;at the La Manga Club Bottom Ground. None of their batters crossed the double-digit mark with Joseph Burrows (4) being the top run-getter. From Spain's perspective, Mohammad Kamran (4 for 4) and Atif Mehmood (4 for 6) starred with the ball.

Talking about the no-show from Isle of Man batting line-up, as many as six batters were dismissed for zero whereas there was no boundary hit throughout their forgettable inning. As a result, they have recorded the lowest score in the history of T20 cricket, going past Sydney Thunders who got dismissed for 15 versus Adelaide Strikers in the 2022/23 Big Bash League (BBL).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-eng-2nd-test-kane-williamson-scripts-history-becomes-new-zealands-highest-run-getter-566276">NZ vs ENG, 2nd Test: Kane Williamson scripts history, becomes New Zealand's highest run-getter</a>

The match was a disaster of epic proportion for Isle of Man as Spain chased down the target in two deliveries, including a no-ball. Opener Awais Ahmed struck two sixes on the trot to take his side to a memorable ten-wicket win with as many as 118 balls to spare.&nbsp;

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Spain takes just 0.2 overs to chase a target of 11 against Isle of Man. 
 
The win margin by 118 balls remaining is the biggest in all T20 cricket.
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LOWEST T20I score&nbsp;

The Isle of Man also registered the lowest T20I score. They broke a four-year unwanted record set by Turkey, who got bundled&nbsp;out for a paltry 21 against&nbsp;Czech Republic&nbsp;in 2019. This isn't the first time where Isle of Man fell flat versus the Spainish line-up. Their&nbsp;previous lowest score (66) also came against Spain on February 25, a day before being dismissed for 10.

It is to be noted that Isle of Man have played 16 T20Is thus far,&nbsp;winning&nbsp;eight and losing seven with one game&nbsp;ending&nbsp;in no result.

On Sunday (February 26), Isle of Man recorded the lowest-ever T20 score. The Carl Haartman-led side bundled out for a mere 10 runs in 8.4 overs versus Spain at the La Manga Club Bottom Ground.

On Sunday (February 26), Isle of Man recorded the lowest-ever T20 score. The Carl Haartman-led side bundled out for a mere 10 runs in 8.4 overs versus Spain at the La Manga Club Bottom Ground. None of their batters crossed the double-digit mark with Joseph Burrows (4) being the top run-getter. From Spain's perspective, Mohammad Kamran (4 for 4) and Atif Mehmood (4 for 6) starred with the ball. Talking about the no-show from Isle of Man batting line-up, as many as six batters were dismissed for zero whereas there was no boundary hit throughout their forgettable inning. As a result, they have recorded the lowest score in the history of T20 cricket, going past Sydney Thunders who got dismissed for 15 versus Adelaide Strikers in the 2022/23 Big Bash League (BBL). Also Read: NZ vs ENG, 2nd Test: Kane Williamson scripts history, becomes New Zealand's highest run-getter The match was a disaster of epic proportion for Isle of Man as Spain chased down the target in two deliveries, including a no-ball. Opener Awais Ahmed struck two sixes on the trot to take his side to a memorable ten-wicket win with as many as 118 balls to spare. Spain takes just 0.2 overs to chase a target of 11 against Isle of Man. The win margin by 118 balls remaining is the biggest in all T20 cricket. — Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) February 26, 2023 × LOWEST T20I score The Isle of Man also registered the lowest T20I score. They broke a four-year unwanted record set by Turkey, who got bundled out for a paltry 21 against Czech Republic in 2019. This isn't the first time where Isle of Man fell flat versus the Spainish line-up. Their previous lowest score (66) also came against Spain on February 25, a day before being dismissed for 10. It is to be noted that Isle of Man have played 16 T20Is thus far, winning eight and losing seven with one game ending in no result.

LOWEST-EVER T20 score! Isle of Man attain UNWANTED record after being all-out for 10 vs Spain

Mohammed Shami remains one of India's finest pacers in the modern era. A regular in the Test and ODI line-up, Shami hasn't played a lot of T20Is prior to and even before the last year's World Cup, held in the UAE. Before represting India in the 2021 T20 WC, Shami's last appearance in the format came in December 2020.

Before the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia, Shami has reportedly been informed by the BCCI selection committee that he isn't in consideration for T20Is. As per a report in Inside Sport, the selectors want to continue with Shami in Tests and ODIs, however, they want to try youngsters in the shortest format of the game.

“Shami isn’t getting any younger and we need him fresh for Tests. That is why he is not being considered for T20s. We have had a chat with him post-T20 World Cup on his workload management. This is how it is going to be now. For now, he is not in plans for T20s and the focus will be on youngsters,” a member of the selection committee told the portal.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saw-the-same-with-gavaskar-kapil-ganguly-sachin-bcci-treasurer-shares-take-on-kohli-vs-rohit-debate-503869">'Saw the same with Gavaskar-Kapil, Ganguly-Sachin' - BCCI treasurer shares take on Kohli vs Rohit debate</a>

Shami last played T20 cricket during IPL 2022, where he was part of the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) camp. The 31-year-old returned with 20 wickets in 16 games, at an average of 18.30, and ended with sixth-most wickets overall.&nbsp;

The Indian seamer has so far played just 17 T20Is in his international career since 2014. Shami's case is similar to that of opener Shikhar Dhawan, who has also been sidelined from Tests and T20Is but remains in the scheme of things in ODIs. The idea behind such a decision also has to do with the players' workload management.

Mohammed Shami remains one of India's finest pacers in the modern era. A regular in the Test and ODI line-up, Shami hasn't played a lot of T20Is prior to and even before the last year's World Cup, held in the UAE.

Mohammed Shami remains one of India's finest pacers in the modern era. A regular in the Test and ODI line-up, Shami hasn't played a lot of T20Is prior to and even before the last year's World Cup, held in the UAE. Before represting India in the 2021 T20 WC, Shami's last appearance in the format came in December 2020. Before the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia, Shami has reportedly been informed by the BCCI selection committee that he isn't in consideration for T20Is. As per a report in Inside Sport, the selectors want to continue with Shami in Tests and ODIs, however, they want to try youngsters in the shortest format of the game. “Shami isn’t getting any younger and we need him fresh for Tests. That is why he is not being considered for T20s. We have had a chat with him post-T20 World Cup on his workload management. This is how it is going to be now. For now, he is not in plans for T20s and the focus will be on youngsters,” a member of the selection committee told the portal. ALSO READ | 'Saw the same with Gavaskar-Kapil, Ganguly-Sachin' - BCCI treasurer shares take on Kohli vs Rohit debate Shami last played T20 cricket during IPL 2022, where he was part of the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) camp. The 31-year-old returned with 20 wickets in 16 games, at an average of 18.30, and ended with sixth-most wickets overall. The Indian seamer has so far played just 17 T20Is in his international career since 2014. Shami's case is similar to that of opener Shikhar Dhawan, who has also been sidelined from Tests and T20Is but remains in the scheme of things in ODIs. The idea behind such a decision also has to do with the players' workload management.

Mohammed Shami not part of Team India's T20I plans, confirms BCCI selection committee member

India and West Indies were involved in a closely-fought three-match ODI series, in the Caribbean island, in which a second-stringed Indian team -- under Shikhar Dhawan -- won 3-0. While the first two ODIs were a thriller, India won the rain-interrupted third and final match by 119 runs (DLS method).&nbsp;

Now, the action moves to the T20Is as both sides will now shift focus back to the shortest format with the 2022 T20 World Cup set to be held in Australia, from October-November. The five-match series opener will be held on Friday (July 29) at the&nbsp;Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. Even the ODIs were held in Trinidad, at the Queen's Park Oval,&nbsp;Port-of-Spain. Hence, will rain once again make its presence felt and interrupt the proceedings?

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-when-and-where-to-watch-west-indies-vs-india-1st-t20i-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-501688">WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 1st T20I match - IST time and streaming details</a>

For the unversed, the weather forecast&nbsp;in Tarouba, Trinidad for Friday is far better than what it was a couple of days back, i.e. on Wednesday (July 27). However, there still remains a 25 percent chance of precipitation during&nbsp;the daytime. As the proceedings will kick off&nbsp;at 10:30 am local time, there is expected to be a cloud cover of 31 percent. However,&nbsp;no humidity indicates a pleasant day on the Caribbean island.

<img alt="Weather forecast in Trinidad for 1st T20I" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5d3de86-e6c1-4c03-bbb1-1b3106375eb3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Trinidad%20weather%2C%20July%2029_0.jpg" />

The temperatures will&nbsp;hover around a high of 32 degrees with&nbsp;a low of 26 degrees.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;it is going to be a hot day largely&nbsp;with some passing showers leading to few interruptions. Overall, a full game is on the cards.

After losing the ODIs, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies will certainly look to settle scores with India and claim the five T20Is. For that, they will be eager to start off nicely against the visitors, who recently beat England (2-1) in their own backyard.

India and West Indies were involved in a closely-fought three-match ODI series, in the Caribbean island, in which a second-stringed Indian team -- under Shikhar Dhawan -- won 3-0.

India and West Indies were involved in a closely-fought three-match ODI series, in the Caribbean island, in which a second-stringed Indian team -- under Shikhar Dhawan -- won 3-0. While the first two ODIs were a thriller, India won the rain-interrupted third and final match by 119 runs (DLS method). Now, the action moves to the T20Is as both sides will now shift focus back to the shortest format with the 2022 T20 World Cup set to be held in Australia, from October-November. The five-match series opener will be held on Friday (July 29) at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. Even the ODIs were held in Trinidad, at the Queen's Park Oval, Port-of-Spain. Hence, will rain once again make its presence felt and interrupt the proceedings? ALSO READ | WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 1st T20I match - IST time and streaming details For the unversed, the weather forecast in Tarouba, Trinidad for Friday is far better than what it was a couple of days back, i.e. on Wednesday (July 27). However, there still remains a 25 percent chance of precipitation during the daytime. As the proceedings will kick off at 10:30 am local time, there is expected to be a cloud cover of 31 percent. However, no humidity indicates a pleasant day on the Caribbean island. The temperatures will hover around a high of 32 degrees with a low of 26 degrees. Thus, it is going to be a hot day largely with some passing showers leading to few interruptions. Overall, a full game is on the cards. After losing the ODIs, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies will certainly look to settle scores with India and claim the five T20Is. For that, they will be eager to start off nicely against the visitors, who recently beat England (2-1) in their own backyard.

West Indies vs India, 1st T20I: How will the weather hold up for series opener at Trinidad?

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game,&nbsp;have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value.&nbsp;

When it comes to T20 cricket, it is continuing its rapid rise with each passing year as many non-cricketing countries have also taken a liking to the sport by investing their time and energy in the format. On the other hand, Test cricket has seen some humdingers in the last few years and the emergence of the ICC World Test Championship has acted as a huge boost for the purest form of the game. Amid all this, ODI cricket remains stagnant and many feel several bilateral 50-over series need to cut down or the format can exist only in the form of the World Cup.

Amid all this, Ben Stokes' shocking ODI retirement -- citing difficulty in sustaining himself at the top level by playing all formats -- has intensified the whole debate. On Wednesday (July 27), ICC chief executive George Allardice said the structuring of the game's three formats was part of the discussion&nbsp;at the governing body's annual general meeting in Birmingham, where the Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2023-27 got finalised.

"I think at this stage there is some discussion, not specifically about ODIs, but about the mix of formats within the calendar," Allardice said in a video conference as per a report in Sky Sports. "Countries have been, in their FTPs, are still scheduling a healthy number of ODIs as well."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cut-odis-from-50-to-40-overs-ravi-shastri-gives-bold-suggestion-to-make-odi-cricket-entertaining-500704">'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining</a>

Further, Allardice stated that some members put "particular attention on their domestic leagues" but insisted that their commitment to international and bilateral cricket remains "as strong as it's ever been".

"Each of them has to manage that balance between domestic competitions, their international schedule and the management of their players. Each of those boards is in a slightly different situation. So there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to that balancing issue," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-shikhar-dhawan-led-india-on-cusp-of-attaining-massive-feat-in-3rd-odi-in-trinidad-500893">WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad</a>

Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said on Fan Code, "There is no harm in shortening the span of the game. When one-day cricket started, it was of 60 overs. When we won the World Cup in 1983, it was of 60 overs. After that, people thought that 60 overs were a bit too long. People found that span of overs between 20 to 40 hard to digest. So they reduced it from 60 to 50."

"So years have gone by now since that decision so why not reduce it from 50 to 40 now. Because you got to be forward-thinking and evolve. It stayed for 50 for too long,” he added.

Meanwhile, the likes of Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi and Usman Khawaja have also echoed similar sentiments whereas the likes of Quinton de Kock and Eoin Morgan have continued to back the 50-over format.

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game, have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value.

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game, have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value. When it comes to T20 cricket, it is continuing its rapid rise with each passing year as many non-cricketing countries have also taken a liking to the sport by investing their time and energy in the format. On the other hand, Test cricket has seen some humdingers in the last few years and the emergence of the ICC World Test Championship has acted as a huge boost for the purest form of the game. Amid all this, ODI cricket remains stagnant and many feel several bilateral 50-over series need to cut down or the format can exist only in the form of the World Cup. Amid all this, Ben Stokes' shocking ODI retirement -- citing difficulty in sustaining himself at the top level by playing all formats -- has intensified the whole debate. On Wednesday (July 27), ICC chief executive George Allardice said the structuring of the game's three formats was part of the discussion at the governing body's annual general meeting in Birmingham, where the Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2023-27 got finalised. "I think at this stage there is some discussion, not specifically about ODIs, but about the mix of formats within the calendar," Allardice said in a video conference as per a report in Sky Sports. "Countries have been, in their FTPs, are still scheduling a healthy number of ODIs as well." ALSO READ | 'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining Further, Allardice stated that some members put "particular attention on their domestic leagues" but insisted that their commitment to international and bilateral cricket remains "as strong as it's ever been". "Each of them has to manage that balance between domestic competitions, their international schedule and the management of their players. Each of those boards is in a slightly different situation. So there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to that balancing issue," he added. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said on Fan Code, "There is no harm in shortening the span of the game. When one-day cricket started, it was of 60 overs. When we won the World Cup in 1983, it was of 60 overs. After that, people thought that 60 overs were a bit too long. People found that span of overs between 20 to 40 hard to digest. So they reduced it from 60 to 50." "So years have gone by now since that decision so why not reduce it from 50 to 40 now. Because you got to be forward-thinking and evolve. It stayed for 50 for too long,” he added. Meanwhile, the likes of Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi and Usman Khawaja have also echoed similar sentiments whereas the likes of Quinton de Kock and Eoin Morgan have continued to back the 50-over format.

Is ODI cricket on the decline? ICC plays down threat to shorter format

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked&nbsp;when he announced&nbsp;that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday).

At 31, Stokes is one of the fittest athletes in world cricket. The all-rounder has already won an ODI World Cup medal, in 2019, has over 5,000 runs in Tests and was also part of Eoin Morgan-led England's 2016 T20 World Cup campaign, where Stokes' 19-run final over in the summit clash conceded the trophy to West Indies. The English star cricketer is easily one of the ambassadors of the game and an integral part of his national side across formats. Then, what led to the recently-appointed Test captain retiring from ODIs?

Stokes recently opened up on his ODI retirement&nbsp;and&nbsp;told&nbsp;BBC's Test Match Special, "The more cricket that is played, the better for the sport, but you want a product that is of the highest quality. You want the best players to be playing as much as you possibly can, all the time."

"It isn't just me or us, you see it all around the world now where teams are having to rest some players in a certain series so they feel like they are getting a break. We are not cars, you can't just fill us up and we'll go out there and be ready to be fuelled up again."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-what-happened-to-virat-kohli-kane-williamson-nasser-hussain-reacts-to-ben-stokes-odi-retirement-499106">Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement</a>

In his column for The Daily Mail, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain also pointed out,&nbsp;"Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is."

"Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned.

"Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format,"&nbsp;added the former right-handed batsman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-standing-ovation-for-ben-stokes-as-he-comes-out-to-bat-in-farewell-odi-during-sa-series-opener-499124">Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener</a>

Thus, Stokes' retirement leads to a burning question: is there too much cricket being played nowadays? Well, the answer to this is a straightforward YES. For the unversed, England have so far already played four Tests (three versus New Zealand, one against India), seven ODIs (three each versus Netherlands,&nbsp;India and one versus SA, with two more on cards) and three T20Is (with an equal number of them to follow suit versus the Proteas) in ongoing 2022 home summer.

The emergence of franchise cricket has surely been a huge boon for the game, tapping into new territories, seeing the emergence of new star players worldwide, and expanding the overall market. However, for any franchise cricket to be a hit, it needs a starry presence and, hence, many top players' participation is ultimately adding to their workload.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greatest-ever-ben-stokes-responds-to-virat-kohlis-message-ahead-of-his-last-odi-for-england-498914">'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England</a>

Even in the IPL, it is almost mandatory for the likes of Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, etc., to make their presence felt due to their huge demand. Thus, they end up picking and choosing games at the international level. With ICC's schedule also not helping one bit -- with too many bilaterals lined up along with a&nbsp;mega event&nbsp;each year till 2031 -- players need to take care of themselves and, hence, ask for frequent rests to remain fit and fresh, keep their passion and intensity for the game alive and kicking as well as&nbsp;deliver the goods.

With so much at stake in every level, it is the players who are being used as puppets -- being asked to move&nbsp;around and dance to the tunes of rigorous schedules across formats. Players are the tools by which the game expands. However, they are certainly&nbsp;not machines for churning out huge profits along with&nbsp;being also expected to perform in all formats at the international level.

Thus, it won't be surprising that Stokes might go onto be the first of many all-format players who will retire from a particular format to prolong their respective careers. The all-rounder has&nbsp;surprised only those who are oblivious to the extensively gruelling demands of the modern-day game. His decision isn't really a shocker. It might just be the start of an unwanted trend.

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked when he announced that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday).

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked when he announced that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday). At 31, Stokes is one of the fittest athletes in world cricket. The all-rounder has already won an ODI World Cup medal, in 2019, has over 5,000 runs in Tests and was also part of Eoin Morgan-led England's 2016 T20 World Cup campaign, where Stokes' 19-run final over in the summit clash conceded the trophy to West Indies. The English star cricketer is easily one of the ambassadors of the game and an integral part of his national side across formats. Then, what led to the recently-appointed Test captain retiring from ODIs? Stokes recently opened up on his ODI retirement and told BBC's Test Match Special, "The more cricket that is played, the better for the sport, but you want a product that is of the highest quality. You want the best players to be playing as much as you possibly can, all the time." "It isn't just me or us, you see it all around the world now where teams are having to rest some players in a certain series so they feel like they are getting a break. We are not cars, you can't just fill us up and we'll go out there and be ready to be fuelled up again." ALSO READ | Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement In his column for The Daily Mail, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain also pointed out, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is." "Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned. "Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," added the former right-handed batsman. ALSO READ | Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener Thus, Stokes' retirement leads to a burning question: is there too much cricket being played nowadays? Well, the answer to this is a straightforward YES. For the unversed, England have so far already played four Tests (three versus New Zealand, one against India), seven ODIs (three each versus Netherlands, India and one versus SA, with two more on cards) and three T20Is (with an equal number of them to follow suit versus the Proteas) in ongoing 2022 home summer. The emergence of franchise cricket has surely been a huge boon for the game, tapping into new territories, seeing the emergence of new star players worldwide, and expanding the overall market. However, for any franchise cricket to be a hit, it needs a starry presence and, hence, many top players' participation is ultimately adding to their workload. ALSO READ | 'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England Even in the IPL, it is almost mandatory for the likes of Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, etc., to make their presence felt due to their huge demand. Thus, they end up picking and choosing games at the international level. With ICC's schedule also not helping one bit -- with too many bilaterals lined up along with a mega event each year till 2031 -- players need to take care of themselves and, hence, ask for frequent rests to remain fit and fresh, keep their passion and intensity for the game alive and kicking as well as deliver the goods. With so much at stake in every level, it is the players who are being used as puppets -- being asked to move around and dance to the tunes of rigorous schedules across formats. Players are the tools by which the game expands. However, they are certainly not machines for churning out huge profits along with being also expected to perform in all formats at the international level. Thus, it won't be surprising that Stokes might go onto be the first of many all-format players who will retire from a particular format to prolong their respective careers. The all-rounder has surprised only those who are oblivious to the extensively gruelling demands of the modern-day game. His decision isn't really a shocker. It might just be the start of an unwanted trend.

Beware world cricket! Ben Stokes might be first of many to give up a format to ensure longevity

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator feels that nobody really remembers the 50-over matches anymore and called for changes to be made in the ODI format. Before him, ex-Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri had called up for the discontinuation of T20I matches and restricting the format to only World Cups. Now, Chopra feels it is the shorter format which is 'most boring contest and meaningless'.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, the 44-year-old cricket expert Chopra pointed out,&nbsp;"If you see the interest levels, keeping the Tests aside as everything is not commercialization, I feel ODI cricket is the most boring contest. It is the most meaningless, it is the format that no one remembers."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-we-need-them-to-score-runs-they-get-out-kapil-dev-on-indias-top-orders-t20-batting-approach-485465">When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach</a>

"It is the format where neither the broadcasters nor the fans enjoy it. That's ODI cricket and there are multiple reasons for that. In 50-over cricket, the 30 overs in the middle are neither a Test nor a T20. ODI is not a format that is going to keep you engaged for too long," he opined.

Chopra further added, "I think ODI cricket is struggling. It is not T20I cricket that is struggling. Let the T20 internationals continue because the broadcasters will need them, or else they won't give you the money. Every country's broadcast rights will take a major hit."

Ever since the T20 cricket rose to prominence, it has affected both Test and ODI format. While a lot is being done to keep the purest format relevant in current times, with the introduction of a WTC, and many Test series have lived upto expectations as well recently -- with less number of draws -- ODI cricket has taken a hit, especially when it comes to bilaterals involving lowly-ranked sides.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator feels that nobody really remembers the 50-over matches anymore and called for changes to be made in the ODI format. Before him, ex-Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri had called up for the discontinuation of T20I matches and restricting the format to only World Cups.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator feels that nobody really remembers the 50-over matches anymore and called for changes to be made in the ODI format. Before him, ex-Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri had called up for the discontinuation of T20I matches and restricting the format to only World Cups. Now, Chopra feels it is the shorter format which is 'most boring contest and meaningless'. In a video shared on his YouTube channel, the 44-year-old cricket expert Chopra pointed out, "If you see the interest levels, keeping the Tests aside as everything is not commercialization, I feel ODI cricket is the most boring contest. It is the most meaningless, it is the format that no one remembers." ALSO READ | When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach "It is the format where neither the broadcasters nor the fans enjoy it. That's ODI cricket and there are multiple reasons for that. In 50-over cricket, the 30 overs in the middle are neither a Test nor a T20. ODI is not a format that is going to keep you engaged for too long," he opined. Chopra further added, "I think ODI cricket is struggling. It is not T20I cricket that is struggling. Let the T20 internationals continue because the broadcasters will need them, or else they won't give you the money. Every country's broadcast rights will take a major hit." Ever since the T20 cricket rose to prominence, it has affected both Test and ODI format. While a lot is being done to keep the purest format relevant in current times, with the introduction of a WTC, and many Test series have lived upto expectations as well recently -- with less number of draws -- ODI cricket has taken a hit, especially when it comes to bilaterals involving lowly-ranked sides.

Tests, ODIs or T20Is? Former Indian opener picks the format which is 'most boring and meaningless'

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri feels cricket should take a cue from football when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Shastri has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discontinue bilateral T20 cricket and allow the major nations to run their own T20 franchise leagues. The former all-rounder said T20 cricket should be limited to only World Cups.

While there are rarely bilateral competitions in football, major countries have their own top leagues and they only take part in the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments at the international level. However, that is not the case in cricket, where bilateral cricket forms a major chunk of the cricketing calendar every year.

Shastri, who coached India from 2017 to 2021, believes there is too much bilateral cricket to play for all international teams and that the ICC should restrict T20s for World Cups only. Shastri said he doesn't remember a single T20 game played by India in the last 6-7 years except those which were played at the World Cups.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-of-quitting-odi-cricket-after-ms-dhoni-dropped-me-reveals-former-indian-opener-virender-sehwag-484124">Thought of quitting ODI cricket after Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag</a>

"There's too much of bilateral stuff going on in T20 cricket. I've said that [before], even when I was the coach of India, I could see it happening in front of my eyes. It should go the football way, where, in T20 cricket, you just play the World Cup. Bilateral tournaments - no one remembers," Shastri told ESPNcricinfo.

"I don't remember a single game in the last six-seven years as coach of India, barring the World Cup. A team wins the World Cup, they will remember it. Unfortunately, we didn't, so I don't remember that either. Where I am coming from is: you play franchise cricket around the globe; each country is allowed to have their franchise cricket, which is their domestic cricket, and then, every two years, you come and play a World Cup," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-hardik-pandya-to-ravindra-jadeja-how-new-captains-fared-in-ipl-2022-483927">From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022?</a>

The former India all-rounder's stint as the head coach of the Indian team had come to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup last year. He has returned to commentary following his coaching stint and has been actively sharing his views on the game.

Under Shastri's leadership, India became a force to reckon with across all three formats and clinched some memorable victories at home and overseas. India also bagged a historic Test series in Australia becoming the first team to beat the hosts down-under in the 2018-19 Border Gavaskar Trophy before repeating the feat once again in 2020-21.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri feels cricket should take a cue from football when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Shastri has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discontinue bilateral T20 cricket and allow the major nations to run their own T20 franchise leagues.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri feels cricket should take a cue from football when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Shastri has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discontinue bilateral T20 cricket and allow the major nations to run their own T20 franchise leagues. The former all-rounder said T20 cricket should be limited to only World Cups. While there are rarely bilateral competitions in football, major countries have their own top leagues and they only take part in the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments at the international level. However, that is not the case in cricket, where bilateral cricket forms a major chunk of the cricketing calendar every year. Shastri, who coached India from 2017 to 2021, believes there is too much bilateral cricket to play for all international teams and that the ICC should restrict T20s for World Cups only. Shastri said he doesn't remember a single T20 game played by India in the last 6-7 years except those which were played at the World Cups. Also Read: Thought of quitting ODI cricket after Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag "There's too much of bilateral stuff going on in T20 cricket. I've said that [before], even when I was the coach of India, I could see it happening in front of my eyes. It should go the football way, where, in T20 cricket, you just play the World Cup. Bilateral tournaments - no one remembers," Shastri told ESPNcricinfo. "I don't remember a single game in the last six-seven years as coach of India, barring the World Cup. A team wins the World Cup, they will remember it. Unfortunately, we didn't, so I don't remember that either. Where I am coming from is: you play franchise cricket around the globe; each country is allowed to have their franchise cricket, which is their domestic cricket, and then, every two years, you come and play a World Cup," he added. Also Read: From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022? The former India all-rounder's stint as the head coach of the Indian team had come to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup last year. He has returned to commentary following his coaching stint and has been actively sharing his views on the game. Under Shastri's leadership, India became a force to reckon with across all three formats and clinched some memorable victories at home and overseas. India also bagged a historic Test series in Australia becoming the first team to beat the hosts down-under in the 2018-19 Border Gavaskar Trophy before repeating the feat once again in 2020-21.

No bilateral T20 cricket? Former India head coach Ravi Shastri urges ICC to go the football way

On Tuesday (May 24), the global media and entertainment powerhouse ZEE has penned down a global media rights&nbsp;contract with UAE’s T20 League. For the unversed, the much-awaited league will air exclusively on ZEE’s linear channels and its OTT&nbsp;platform ZEE5, in India as well as across the globe.

After the massive development, an official statement said, "ZEE’s strong global presence across 190+ countries will help build the reach and resonance for the League with viewers and partners. With immense synergies between&nbsp;its businesses and a holistic approach for advertisers and distribution partners, ZEE will engage fans through a multi-platform strategy taking the league to more than 100 million&nbsp;households."

Rahul Johri, President – Business, South Asia, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, opined, "At ZEE, we are delighted to be the official global media rights holder of&nbsp;UAE’s T20 League. We believe that the League, which is already attracting globally, the biggest cricket stars and team franchisees, will provide fantastic cricket and&nbsp;entertainment to viewers across the world. ZEE is committed to use the strength of its platforms to take UAE’s T20 League to audiences in India and across the globe."

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Mubashshir Usmani, General Secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB)&nbsp;stated, "ECB wishes both UAE’s T20 League and ZEE well for entering into this partnership. We recognize and appreciate&nbsp;the massive reach of ZEE’s channels and their Digital media platform which will benefit the League in terms of viewership. The tournament will also provide a valuable platform&nbsp;for Emirates Cricket to develop the local talent and to provide players the opportunity to train and play alongside the world’s best ."

The UAE&nbsp;T20 League is a professional cricket tournament that consists&nbsp;of as many as&nbsp;six teams&nbsp;competing&nbsp;in a 34-match mega-event,&nbsp;including Reliance Industries Limited, Adani Sportsline, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lancer Capital, GMR Group and Capri Global. Thus, the league will now bank on Zee's humongous popularity across the globe for&nbsp;the tournament's viewership to scale&nbsp;greater heights and create a niche for itself.

While there have been many T20 leagues which have come into existence&nbsp;since IPL's rise, the space for more such franchise cricket remains unmatched&nbsp;as the viewership and demand of&nbsp;the shortest format knows no boundaries among the cricket loyalists globally. With Zee's arrival, the UAE T20 League looks set to embark upon a successful journey going ahead.

The UAE T20 League is expected to be held from June-July, 2022.

On Tuesday (May 24), the global media and entertainment powerhouse ZEE has penned down a global media rights contract with UAE’s T20 League. For the unversed, the much-awaited league will air exclusively on ZEE’s linear channels and its OTT platform ZEE5, in India as well as across the globe.

On Tuesday (May 24), the global media and entertainment powerhouse ZEE has penned down a global media rights contract with UAE’s T20 League. For the unversed, the much-awaited league will air exclusively on ZEE’s linear channels and its OTT platform ZEE5, in India as well as across the globe. After the massive development, an official statement said, "ZEE’s strong global presence across 190+ countries will help build the reach and resonance for the League with viewers and partners. With immense synergies between its businesses and a holistic approach for advertisers and distribution partners, ZEE will engage fans through a multi-platform strategy taking the league to more than 100 million households." Rahul Johri, President – Business, South Asia, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, opined, "At ZEE, we are delighted to be the official global media rights holder of UAE’s T20 League. We believe that the League, which is already attracting globally, the biggest cricket stars and team franchisees, will provide fantastic cricket and entertainment to viewers across the world. ZEE is committed to use the strength of its platforms to take UAE’s T20 League to audiences in India and across the globe." ALSO READ | IPL 2022 playoffs: All you need to know about schedule, timings and venues Mubashshir Usmani, General Secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) stated, "ECB wishes both UAE’s T20 League and ZEE well for entering into this partnership. We recognize and appreciate the massive reach of ZEE’s channels and their Digital media platform which will benefit the League in terms of viewership. The tournament will also provide a valuable platform for Emirates Cricket to develop the local talent and to provide players the opportunity to train and play alongside the world’s best ." The UAE T20 League is a professional cricket tournament that consists of as many as six teams competing in a 34-match mega-event, including Reliance Industries Limited, Adani Sportsline, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lancer Capital, GMR Group and Capri Global. Thus, the league will now bank on Zee's humongous popularity across the globe for the tournament's viewership to scale greater heights and create a niche for itself. While there have been many T20 leagues which have come into existence since IPL's rise, the space for more such franchise cricket remains unmatched as the viewership and demand of the shortest format knows no boundaries among the cricket loyalists globally. With Zee's arrival, the UAE T20 League looks set to embark upon a successful journey going ahead. The UAE T20 League is expected to be held from June-July, 2022.

UAE T20 League: India's ZEE group bags global media rights contract - Here's all you need to know

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with&nbsp;Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 58 of IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (May 11). In a bid to remain alive in the playoffs race, the Delhi franchise brought their A-game as they restricted RR to 160-6 and later chased down the target with eight wickets and 11 balls to spare.

While it was Mitchell Marsh show, returning with 2 for 25 and 62-ball 89, Pant also marshalled his troops well and took a brave call to bat second after winning the toss. Later, he also ended with a 4-ball 13* as he entered an elite list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-mi-ipl-2022-today-match-prediction-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-mumbai-indians-clash-478363">CSK vs MI, IPL 2022 today match prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians clash?</a>

The 24-year-old Pant is now among Indian wicketkeeper-batsman with in excess of 4,000 runs in T20 cricket. The list is topped by none other than the legendary cricketer MS Dhoni. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain&nbsp;has amassed 7,098 runs whereas Dinesh Karthik&nbsp;is at the second spot with&nbsp;6,557 runs in 339 T20s. Parthiv Patel, on the other hand, finished&nbsp;his T20 career with 4,300 runs. Given that Pant is only 24 and in the initial phase of his career, he is set to scale new heights and top the list in the coming years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-ipl-2022-points-table-after-delhi-capitals-thrash-rajasthan-royals-by-8-wickets-478212">Updated IPL 2022 points table after Delhi Capitals thrash Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets</a>

After DC pulled off a big win and kept their playoffs hopes alive, with 14 points and two games remaining, Pant said at the post-match presentation, "Very close to a perfect game. Always believe there's room for improvement. When you know the wicket is going to turn, little bit not much, there's an opportunity to both bowl first or bat first. In the toss I said anything around 140-160 would be good for us, and we got 160. Destiny is always on your hands, you can look to give 100 percent. Fielding wise we can be better. He got typhoid or something like that (talking about Shaw), doctor told me that."

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 58 of IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (May 11). In a bid to remain alive in the playoffs race, the Delhi franchise brought their A-game as they restricted RR to 160-6 and later chased down the target with eight wickets and 11 balls to spare.

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 58 of IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (May 11). In a bid to remain alive in the playoffs race, the Delhi franchise brought their A-game as they restricted RR to 160-6 and later chased down the target with eight wickets and 11 balls to spare. While it was Mitchell Marsh show, returning with 2 for 25 and 62-ball 89, Pant also marshalled his troops well and took a brave call to bat second after winning the toss. Later, he also ended with a 4-ball 13* as he entered an elite list. ALSO READ | CSK vs MI, IPL 2022 today match prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians clash? The 24-year-old Pant is now among Indian wicketkeeper-batsman with in excess of 4,000 runs in T20 cricket. The list is topped by none other than the legendary cricketer MS Dhoni. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain has amassed 7,098 runs whereas Dinesh Karthik is at the second spot with 6,557 runs in 339 T20s. Parthiv Patel, on the other hand, finished his T20 career with 4,300 runs. Given that Pant is only 24 and in the initial phase of his career, he is set to scale new heights and top the list in the coming years. ALSO READ | Updated IPL 2022 points table after Delhi Capitals thrash Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets After DC pulled off a big win and kept their playoffs hopes alive, with 14 points and two games remaining, Pant said at the post-match presentation, "Very close to a perfect game. Always believe there's room for improvement. When you know the wicket is going to turn, little bit not much, there's an opportunity to both bowl first or bat first. In the toss I said anything around 140-160 would be good for us, and we got 160. Destiny is always on your hands, you can look to give 100 percent. Fielding wise we can be better. He got typhoid or something like that (talking about Shaw), doctor told me that."

IPL 2022: Rishabh Pant joins MS Dhoni-led elite list of Indian wicketkeeper-batters with 4k runs in T20s

All eyes were on David Warner as the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with the one-time winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 50 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (May 05), at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;

Playing against his old franchise SRH, many thought that the Aussie opener would be&nbsp;desperate to make a big mark versus the Orange Army. In last year's edition, Warner was removed&nbsp;from SRH captaincy and later dropped&nbsp;from the playing XI&nbsp;before being released&nbsp;prior to IPL 2022 mega auction. The Aussie didn't disappoint as he led the charge with the willow after Kane Williamson-led SRH opted to bowl first on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

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Losing opener Mandeep Singh and Mitchell Marsh early, Warner stitched a valuable third-wicket stand with captain Pant (26) before he and Rovman Powell (35-ball 67 not out) propelled DC to a mammoth 207/3 in 20 overs. While Powell made heads turn in the death overs, ending with a strike rate of 191.43 with 6 sixes and 3 fours, Warner top-scored with a majestic 92 not out (off 58 deliveries, striking at 158.62). He took his time, played his shots in all parts of the ground and brought on some cheeky strokes as well to remain not out and overtake Universe Boss Chris Gayle in an elite list.

With another fifty, Warner now has most half-centuries in T20 cricket. Here's the top-five:

David Warner 89*

Chris Gayle 88

Virat Kohli 77

Aaron Finch 70

Rohit Sharma 69

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-something-weve-been-seeing-with-him-ian-bishop-expresses-concern-over-virat-kohlis-poor-form-476586">This is something we've been seeing with him: Ian Bishop expresses concern over Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

In addition, the 35-year-old leads the list in the IPL with 54 fifties from 158 innings. Overall, Gayle remains at the top spot with most fifty-plus scores in T20 cricket. The West Indian has 110 fifty-plus scores whereas Warner follows suit (97).

Riding on Warner and Powell's strokeplay, DC will like to beat SRH and add two more vital points in their kitty.

All eyes were on David Warner as the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with the one-time winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 50 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (May 05), at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.

All eyes were on David Warner as the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with the one-time winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 50 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (May 05), at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai. Playing against his old franchise SRH, many thought that the Aussie opener would be desperate to make a big mark versus the Orange Army. In last year's edition, Warner was removed from SRH captaincy and later dropped from the playing XI before being released prior to IPL 2022 mega auction. The Aussie didn't disappoint as he led the charge with the willow after Kane Williamson-led SRH opted to bowl first on Thursday evening. ALSO READ | AB de Villiers to Yusuf Pathan: IPL superstars with most Player-of-the-Match awards Losing opener Mandeep Singh and Mitchell Marsh early, Warner stitched a valuable third-wicket stand with captain Pant (26) before he and Rovman Powell (35-ball 67 not out) propelled DC to a mammoth 207/3 in 20 overs. While Powell made heads turn in the death overs, ending with a strike rate of 191.43 with 6 sixes and 3 fours, Warner top-scored with a majestic 92 not out (off 58 deliveries, striking at 158.62). He took his time, played his shots in all parts of the ground and brought on some cheeky strokes as well to remain not out and overtake Universe Boss Chris Gayle in an elite list. With another fifty, Warner now has most half-centuries in T20 cricket. Here's the top-five: David Warner 89* Chris Gayle 88 Virat Kohli 77 Aaron Finch 70 Rohit Sharma 69 ALSO READ | This is something we've been seeing with him: Ian Bishop expresses concern over Virat Kohli's poor form In addition, the 35-year-old leads the list in the IPL with 54 fifties from 158 innings. Overall, Gayle remains at the top spot with most fifty-plus scores in T20 cricket. The West Indian has 110 fifty-plus scores whereas Warner follows suit (97). Riding on Warner and Powell's strokeplay, DC will like to beat SRH and add two more vital points in their kitty.

DC vs SRH: David Warner's 92* takes him to an elite list, overtakes Chris Gayle to have most T20 fifties

West Indies white-ball captain Kieron Pollard on Wednesday announced his retirement from international cricket though he will continue to freelance in private T20 and T10 leagues across the globe. The 34-year-old Pollard, who made his ODI debut back in 2007, fittingly played his last series against India, a country which has become his second home due to his long association with Mumbai Indians.

"Hi all, after careful deliberation, I have decided to retire from international cricket. It was a dream of mine to play for West Indies since I was a 10-year-old boy and I am proud to represent the West Indies for over 15 years in T20 and ODI format of the game," Pollard announced on his official Instagram page.

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CclDQtNpcP8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kieron Pollard (@kieron.pollard55)</a>
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While he is a feared T20 cricketer, one of the finest that the world has seen, his numbers for the West Indies remain underwhelming with only 2706 runs at just above 26 and 55 wickets from 123 ODIs along with 1569 runs from 101 T20Is at an average of shade over 25. He also took 44 wickets.

While the highlight of his international career would be hitting six sixes of Akila Dananjaya in a T20I. He was a part of the 2012 ICC T20 World Cup-winning West Indies squad. He never played Test cricket.

West Indies white-ball captain Kieron Pollard on Wednesday announced his retirement from international cricket though he will continue to freelance in private T20 and T10 leagues across the globe.

West Indies white-ball captain Kieron Pollard on Wednesday announced his retirement from international cricket though he will continue to freelance in private T20 and T10 leagues across the globe. The 34-year-old Pollard, who made his ODI debut back in 2007, fittingly played his last series against India, a country which has become his second home due to his long association with Mumbai Indians. "Hi all, after careful deliberation, I have decided to retire from international cricket. It was a dream of mine to play for West Indies since I was a 10-year-old boy and I am proud to represent the West Indies for over 15 years in T20 and ODI format of the game," Pollard announced on his official Instagram page. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kieron Pollard (@kieron.pollard55) × ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma knows how to handle such situations, MI have come back from lows in past: Jaydev Unadkat While he is a feared T20 cricketer, one of the finest that the world has seen, his numbers for the West Indies remain underwhelming with only 2706 runs at just above 26 and 55 wickets from 123 ODIs along with 1569 runs from 101 T20Is at an average of shade over 25. He also took 44 wickets. While the highlight of his international career would be hitting six sixes of Akila Dananjaya in a T20I. He was a part of the 2012 ICC T20 World Cup-winning West Indies squad. He never played Test cricket.

West Indies captain Kieron Pollard announces retirement from international cricket

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar hailed India's new T20I skipper Rohit Sharma, saying that it is a 'new beginning' for Indian Twenty20 cricket under his leadership.

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar hailed India's new T20I skipper Rohit Sharma, saying that it is a 'new beginning' for Indian Twenty20 cricket under his leadership. Rohit will succeed Virat Kohli as captain when they take on New Zealand in a three-match Twenty20 series at home this month. Fellow opener KL Rahul has been named Rohit's deputy. Kohli had stepped down as captain ahead of the T20 World Cup, where India failed to make the semi-finals after finishing third in the group behind Group 2 leaders Pakistan and New Zealand. ALSO READ | Tasmania to submit pitch to country's cricket board to swipe Ashes Test from Perth Commenting on the Indian cricket board BCCI's decision, Gavaskar told India Today, "Rohit Sharma is absolutely ready to carry the baton forward. It is a new beginning for Indian T20 cricket under the leadership of Rohit." Sharma made his debut in 2007 for the national team, initially playing limited-overs cricket before being included in the Test team in 2013. He has also captained the Mumbai Indians to victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) five times. Weighing in on Rohit's IPL success, Gavaskar said, "Generally, a captain is only as good as his team. I know Rohit has won five IPL trophies under his captaincy but leading a national team is completely different to leading your state team or franchise." ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report "Just like a good first-class cricketer, he doesn’t necessarily turn out to be a great international cricketer. It goes to the captains also, no matter how many titles you have won for your state team or franchise, it doesn’t guarantee success at the international level," Gavaskar added. In the series against New Zealand, Kohli has been rested against the Kiwis along with pacemen Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. The selectors have made a number of changes to the squad that featured in the United Arab Emirates, bringing in the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Venkatesh Iyer, Avesh Khan and Harshal Patel, while dropping all-rounder Hardik Pandya. The first T20 is scheduled for Jaipur on November 17 followed by games in Ranchi on November 19 and Kolkata on November 21. India's squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohd. Siraj

'Leading a national team is completely different': Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Rohit Sharma's success in IPL

The unveiling of Virat Kohli-led Team India's jersey for the T20 World Cup got bigger and better with a breathtaking light show at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is one of the host cities for the tournament that will get underway from October 17.

The unveiling of Virat Kohli-led Team India's jersey for the T20 World Cup got bigger and better with a breathtaking light show at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is one of the host cities for the tournament that will get underway from October 17. On Wednesday (October 13), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the Indian team's jersey, which is inspired by the fans and called the 'Billion Cheers Jersey'. It comes in shades of prussian blue and royal blue. IN PICS | Iconic shades of blue: Evolution of Team India's jersey from 1985 to 2021 "This is the first time in the history of Indian cricket that fans have been memorialised on a jersey. It carries their chants and cheers from iconic past matches, transformed into unique soundwave patterns," stated a release from ML Sports. Now, in a video posted on the official Twitter handle of BCCI, India's new kit can be seen on Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa. "The Team India World Cup jersey unveil gets bigger and better with a projection on the iconic Burj Khalifa. Watch the historic moment here!" BCCI wrote as the caption. Watch the video here: The Team India World Cup jersey unveil gets bigger and better with a projection on the iconic Burj Khalifa. Watch the historic moment here! 🇮🇳 @mpl_sport #BillionCheersJersey #ShowYourGame #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/Ee8S6rGD6c — BCCI (@BCCI) October 14, 2021 × ALSO READ | Babar Azam makes BIG claim ahead of marquee face-off between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup The Men in Blue will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. The tournament was scheduled to be held in India but the COVID-19 situation in the country forced organisers to shift it to the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Ahead of the tournament, India tweaked its squad as Shardul Thakur has been added to the 15-member squad as he replaced Axar Patel, who will now be on the list of standby players.

Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show

Kieron Pollard on Tuesday added another feather to his illustrious cap as he became the first player in T20 cricket history to aggregate 10,000 runs and 300 wickets.

The West Indian all-rounder achieved this feat while playing for Mumbai Indians in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Punjab Kings at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

Pollard who was bowling the 7th over of the innings, removed his compatriot Chris Gayle for the 299th T20 wicket. Later in the same over he achieved the 300 wickets mark in T20 after he dismissed PBKS captain KL Rahul. Rahul walked back after scoring 21 runs while Gayle returned on one.

Earlier, Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl against Punjab Kings in their Indian Premier League encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. PBKS and MI find themselves on 8 points with 4 games remaining, and both will know that a win in match 42 of IPL 2021 will increase their chances massively of making the final four.&nbsp;

Kieron Pollard on Tuesday added another feather to his illustrious cap as he became the first player in T20 cricket history to aggregate 10,000 runs and 300 wickets.

Kieron Pollard on Tuesday added another feather to his illustrious cap as he became the first player in T20 cricket history to aggregate 10,000 runs and 300 wickets. The West Indian all-rounder achieved this feat while playing for Mumbai Indians in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Punjab Kings at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Pollard who was bowling the 7th over of the innings, removed his compatriot Chris Gayle for the 299th T20 wicket. Later in the same over he achieved the 300 wickets mark in T20 after he dismissed PBKS captain KL Rahul. Rahul walked back after scoring 21 runs while Gayle returned on one. Earlier, Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl against Punjab Kings in their Indian Premier League encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. PBKS and MI find themselves on 8 points with 4 games remaining, and both will know that a win in match 42 of IPL 2021 will increase their chances massively of making the final four.

Kieron Pollard becomes first player in T20 cricket to complete 10,000 runs and 300 wickets

Australia`s Andrew Tye and Mitchell Swepson delivered a spirited bowling performance as the tourists defeated Bangladesh by three wickets in Saturday`s fourth Twenty20 international to record their first win in the five-match series. 
 
Bangladesh took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series with Friday`s 10-run victory in Dhaka. The final match will be played on Monday at the same venue. 
 
Tye (3-18) and Swepson (3-12) restricted Bangladesh to 104-9 as the hosts lost three players, including skipper Mohammad Mahmudullah to a duck, with opener Mohammad Naim top-scoring with 28 runs. 
 
The Bangladesh bowlers fought hard to defend the measly total but Australian Dan Christian`s 15-ball 39 coupled with team mate Ashton Agar`s run-a-ball 27 helped the visitors seal the contest with an over to spare.

Australia`s Andrew Tye and Mitchell Swepson delivered a spirited bowling performance as the tourists defeated Bangladesh by three wickets in Saturday`s fourth Twenty20 international to record their first win in the five-match series.

Australia`s Andrew Tye and Mitchell Swepson delivered a spirited bowling performance as the tourists defeated Bangladesh by three wickets in Saturday`s fourth Twenty20 international to record their first win in the five-match series. Bangladesh took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series with Friday`s 10-run victory in Dhaka. The final match will be played on Monday at the same venue. Tye (3-18) and Swepson (3-12) restricted Bangladesh to 104-9 as the hosts lost three players, including skipper Mohammad Mahmudullah to a duck, with opener Mohammad Naim top-scoring with 28 runs. The Bangladesh bowlers fought hard to defend the measly total but Australian Dan Christian`s 15-ball 39 coupled with team mate Ashton Agar`s run-a-ball 27 helped the visitors seal the contest with an over to spare.

Cricket: Australia bounce back to win fourth T20 against Bangladesh

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool, however, the former cricketer has predicted the arch-rivals will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India.&nbsp;

While speaking to a media house, Akhtar said, "I have a feeling Pakistan and India will play in the T20 World Cup final and India will lose to Pakistan. Conditions in UAE will favour both India and Pakistan."

Pakistan team has never defeated India in World Cup matches as the Indian team boast a stunning 11-0 record. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, however, they have faced each other in ICC tournaments. Despite the ban, India vs Pakistan is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the cricket world. Particularly this year, as both the teams will contest to get the trophy for a second time.

Previously, India was supposed to host the T20 World Cup but owing to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the entire event has been shifted to UAE.&nbsp;

'Today's batmen are fortunate...'

Recently, Akhtar commented that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."&nbsp;

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman.

Former Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made quite an interesting prediction regarding the winner of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14 this year in the UAE and Oman. India and Pakistan are slated to play in the group stage as they are in the same pool, however, the former cricketer has predicted the arch-rivals will play the final clash also and not just that, Pakistan will end up defeating India. While speaking to a media house, Akhtar said, "I have a feeling Pakistan and India will play in the T20 World Cup final and India will lose to Pakistan. Conditions in UAE will favour both India and Pakistan." Pakistan team has never defeated India in World Cup matches as the Indian team boast a stunning 11-0 record. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series in over a decade due to political tensions, however, they have faced each other in ICC tournaments. Despite the ban, India vs Pakistan is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the cricket world. Particularly this year, as both the teams will contest to get the trophy for a second time. Previously, India was supposed to host the T20 World Cup but owing to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the entire event has been shifted to UAE. 'Today's batmen are fortunate...' Recently, Akhtar commented that the batsmen of today's generation are "fortunate" as they haven't faced some of the legendary bowlers like Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and himself. During an interview with an India-based media house, the 45-year-old former fast bowler spoke about how the game of cricket has deteriorated over the past few years. He said that cricket has "not evolved", only the shots have "evolved". Akhtar said, "The quality of the game has deteriorated in the last 10 years. The deterioration has happened."

Shoaib Akhtar predicts winner of T20 World Cup, says 'India will lose to Pakistan'

Liam Livingstone smashed the fastest Twenty20 century by an Englishman in just 42 balls against Pakistan but it was in vain as England lost a white ball match for the first time this summer, falling short by 31 runs in Trent Bridge on Friday.

England`s regulars returned from quarantine after a second-string squad swept the one-day international series 3-0, with Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow and Tom Curran back in the team and Eoin Morgan leading the side. 
 
Morgan won the toss and chose to bowl first but the move backfired as Pakistan capitalised on the short boundaries, smashing 20 fours and 12 sixes to post 232-6 -- their highest total in T20 internationals. 
 
In response, England were bowled out for 201. 
 
Seamer Shaheen Afridi (3-30) struck early to dismiss Dawid Malan, diving forward on his follow-through to have the opener caught and bowled, before he had Bairstow caught off a top edge to leave England two down in the fourth over. 
 
Pakistan`s poor fielding was a major talking point in the final ODI but they turned up on the night, taking difficult catches in the deep and even inflicting a run out with a direct hit. 
 
Moeen Ali fell when Haris Rauf took a bizarre catch in the deep, holding on to the ball even as he jumped into Sohaib Maqsood`s arms as his team mate tried to avoid a collision, while Jason Roy (32) failed to make good on a bright start. 
 
Livingstone hit a barrage of sixes to initially bring up England`s fastest T20 fifty in just 17 balls but kept going to reach his maiden T20 century with a six. 
But as wickets fell at the other end, the pressure was on Livingstone and he was caught the very next ball on the boundary on 103 as the asking rate crept above 14 per over. 
 
Pakistan's flying start

Earlier, Pakistan`s openers got the tourists off to a flying start with 49 runs in the power play before increasing that run rate as skipper Babar Azam brought up their 100 in the 12th over with a six. 
 
Mohammad Rizwan hit 63 off 41 balls in a 150-run opening stand before he was flummoxed by a slow bouncer from Lewis Gregory, edging it to Bairstow. 
 
Azam picked up where he left off after his knock of 158 in the third ODI, hitting 85 of 49 balls before he was caught behind off David Willey. 
 
Despite having two new batsmen at the crease in the death overs, Fakhar Zaman (26 off 8) and Mohammad Hafeez (24 off 10) constructed a 46-run partnership off just 16 deliveries to guide Pakistan to their record total.

Liam Livingstone smashed the fastest Twenty20 century by an Englishman in just 42 balls against Pakistan but it was in vain as England lost a white ball match for the first time this summer, falling short by 31 runs in Trent Bridge on Friday.

Liam Livingstone smashed the fastest Twenty20 century by an Englishman in just 42 balls against Pakistan but it was in vain as England lost a white ball match for the first time this summer, falling short by 31 runs in Trent Bridge on Friday. England`s regulars returned from quarantine after a second-string squad swept the one-day international series 3-0, with Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow and Tom Curran back in the team and Eoin Morgan leading the side. Morgan won the toss and chose to bowl first but the move backfired as Pakistan capitalised on the short boundaries, smashing 20 fours and 12 sixes to post 232-6 -- their highest total in T20 internationals. In response, England were bowled out for 201. Seamer Shaheen Afridi (3-30) struck early to dismiss Dawid Malan, diving forward on his follow-through to have the opener caught and bowled, before he had Bairstow caught off a top edge to leave England two down in the fourth over. Pakistan`s poor fielding was a major talking point in the final ODI but they turned up on the night, taking difficult catches in the deep and even inflicting a run out with a direct hit. Moeen Ali fell when Haris Rauf took a bizarre catch in the deep, holding on to the ball even as he jumped into Sohaib Maqsood`s arms as his team mate tried to avoid a collision, while Jason Roy (32) failed to make good on a bright start. Livingstone hit a barrage of sixes to initially bring up England`s fastest T20 fifty in just 17 balls but kept going to reach his maiden T20 century with a six. But as wickets fell at the other end, the pressure was on Livingstone and he was caught the very next ball on the boundary on 103 as the asking rate crept above 14 per over. Pakistan's flying start Earlier, Pakistan`s openers got the tourists off to a flying start with 49 runs in the power play before increasing that run rate as skipper Babar Azam brought up their 100 in the 12th over with a six. Mohammad Rizwan hit 63 off 41 balls in a 150-run opening stand before he was flummoxed by a slow bouncer from Lewis Gregory, edging it to Bairstow. Azam picked up where he left off after his knock of 158 in the third ODI, hitting 85 of 49 balls before he was caught behind off David Willey. Despite having two new batsmen at the crease in the death overs, Fakhar Zaman (26 off 8) and Mohammad Hafeez (24 off 10) constructed a 46-run partnership off just 16 deliveries to guide Pakistan to their record total.

Cricket: Resurgent Pakistan beat England by 31 runs in T20 run fest

The game of cricket has evolved over time. While the earlier phase of the gentlemen's game used to see players taking their time and patience, the shortened version of the sport has seen matches being extremely fast-paced. With cricket evolving so much, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has predicted which player will score the first-ever double century in T20 cricket.

Hogg was having a question-answer session on social media platform Twitter where a fan asked him: "@Brad_Hogg who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred?"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/Brad_Hogg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Brad_Hogg</a> who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred?
— shivam jaiswal (@shivamj1998) <a href="https://twitter.com/shivamj1998/status/1239078492244856832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The former Aussie spinner was quick to answer to the query as he predicted that Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the only player capable of hitting the double-ton mark in the shortest format of the game. Hogg, while justifying his prediction, said that the 'Hitman' has a good strike-rate, is a superb timer of the ball and plays shorts all over the park.&nbsp;

"Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground," Hogg replied.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground. <a href="https://t.co/WmHatsrJpO">https://t.co/WmHatsrJpO</a>
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brad_Hogg/status/1239085012869234689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In total, five batsmen have scored double centuries in men's ODI with Rohit being the player with most double tons in the shorter format of the game – three. While Sachin Tendulkar was the first player ever, in ODIs, to score a double century in 2010, Rohit went on to hammer double centuries in 2013 (vs Australia), 2014 and 2017 (vs Sri Lanka).

While cricketing action is currently at a halt amid coronavirus pandemic, it will be interesting to see whether Rohit achieves the feat when the action resumes after the situation improves.

The game of cricket has evolved over time. While the earlier phase of the gentlemen's game used to see players taking their time and patience, the shortened version of the sport has seen matches being extremely fast-paced.

The game of cricket has evolved over time. While the earlier phase of the gentlemen's game used to see players taking their time and patience, the shortened version of the sport has seen matches being extremely fast-paced. With cricket evolving so much, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has predicted which player will score the first-ever double century in T20 cricket. Hogg was having a question-answer session on social media platform Twitter where a fan asked him: "@Brad_Hogg who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred?" @Brad_Hogg who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred? — shivam jaiswal (@shivamj1998) March 15, 2020 × The former Aussie spinner was quick to answer to the query as he predicted that Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the only player capable of hitting the double-ton mark in the shortest format of the game. Hogg, while justifying his prediction, said that the 'Hitman' has a good strike-rate, is a superb timer of the ball and plays shorts all over the park. "Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground," Hogg replied. Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground. https://t.co/WmHatsrJpO — Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) March 15, 2020 × In total, five batsmen have scored double centuries in men's ODI with Rohit being the player with most double tons in the shorter format of the game – three. While Sachin Tendulkar was the first player ever, in ODIs, to score a double century in 2010, Rohit went on to hammer double centuries in 2013 (vs Australia), 2014 and 2017 (vs Sri Lanka). While cricketing action is currently at a halt amid coronavirus pandemic, it will be interesting to see whether Rohit achieves the feat when the action resumes after the situation improves.

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg predicts which player will score first double century in T20 cricket

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankan-cricket-team-to-go-ahead-with-pakistan-tour-despite-terror-fears-250656">Sri Lanka Cricket</a> (SLC) on Wednesday named Angelo Mathews in the squad for the three-match T20I series against India that will begin later this week.

Mathews last played for the team in 2018 against South Africa at Colombo.

Meanwhile, Nuwan Pradeep was ruled out of the series due to an injury which he sustained during practice.

Sri Lanka recently lost the two-match Test series 1-0 against Pakistan. In the second Test at Karachi, Pakistan registered a massive 263-run victory. This is the first victory by Pakistan on Pakistani soil in 10 years.

Earlier, the first Test in Rawalpindi between the two teams was drawn.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/chandika-hathurusingha-named-sri-lanka-cricket-coach-26262">national selectors</a> have chosen the following players to play in the T20I series against India.

Lasith Malinga (captain), Danushka Gunathilaka, Avishka Fernando, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-announce-icc-world-cup-squad-angelo-mathews-and-jeevan-mendis-make-a-comeback-211519">Angelo Mathews</a>, Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Janith Perera, Niroshan Dickwella, Dhananjaya De Silva, Isuru Udana, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Oshada Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Kusal Mendis, Lakshan Sandakan.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Wednesday named Angelo Mathews in the squad for the three-match T20I series against India that will begin later this week. Mathews last played for the team in 2018 against South Africa at Colombo.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Wednesday named Angelo Mathews in the squad for the three-match T20I series against India that will begin later this week. Mathews last played for the team in 2018 against South Africa at Colombo. Meanwhile, Nuwan Pradeep was ruled out of the series due to an injury which he sustained during practice. Sri Lanka recently lost the two-match Test series 1-0 against Pakistan. In the second Test at Karachi, Pakistan registered a massive 263-run victory. This is the first victory by Pakistan on Pakistani soil in 10 years. Earlier, the first Test in Rawalpindi between the two teams was drawn. The national selectors have chosen the following players to play in the T20I series against India. Lasith Malinga (captain), Danushka Gunathilaka, Avishka Fernando, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Janith Perera, Niroshan Dickwella, Dhananjaya De Silva, Isuru Udana, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Oshada Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Kusal Mendis, Lakshan Sandakan.

Sri Lanka includes Angelo Mathews for T20I series against India

Opening batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../rain-likely-to-play-spoilsport-in-india-vs-south- africa-third-t20i-251159">Shikhar Dhawan</a> has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies due to a knee injury. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../want-to-focus-on-setting-targets-and-defending- them-says-rohit-sharma-259488">Sanju Samson</a> will replace Dhawan in the squad.

Dhawan suffered a deep cut on his left knee during a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game against Maharashtra in Surat. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team assessed him on Tuesday to review the healing of his wound. The medical team has suggested that Dhawan needs some more time for his stitches to come off and his wound to heal completely.

The selectors had announced the Indian ODI and T20I squad for series against West Indies on November 21. Samson's exclusion from the squad did not go down well with many supporters as they criticised the selectors for not giving him a chance.

Samson was a part of the T20I squad for series against Bangladesh, but he was not given a chance in the playing XI as Rishabh Pant was preferred over him.

India's squad for 3 T20Is: Virat Kohli (C), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sanju Samson. 
India will play their first T20I against West Indies on December 6.

Opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies due to a knee injury. Sanju Samson will replace Dhawan in the squad.

Opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies due to a knee injury. Sanju Samson will replace Dhawan in the squad. Dhawan suffered a deep cut on his left knee during a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game against Maharashtra in Surat. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team assessed him on Tuesday to review the healing of his wound. The medical team has suggested that Dhawan needs some more time for his stitches to come off and his wound to heal completely. The selectors had announced the Indian ODI and T20I squad for series against West Indies on November 21. Samson's exclusion from the squad did not go down well with many supporters as they criticised the selectors for not giving him a chance. Samson was a part of the T20I squad for series against Bangladesh, but he was not given a chance in the playing XI as Rishabh Pant was preferred over him. India's squad for 3 T20Is: Virat Kohli (C), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sanju Samson. India will play their first T20I against West Indies on December 6.

Sanju Samson to play in T20 series after four years, will replace injured Dhawan

Bismah Maroof has been retained as captain while Iqbal Imam has got the role of the head coach of Pakistan women's team until next year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup. 
"It is truly an honour for me to be continuing as Pakistan's captain and I look forward to leading the side in the next year's T20 World Cup," Maroof said in an official statement on Wednesday.

Prior to Australia event in December, Pakistan team will take on England in Kuala Lumpur in the seventh round of ICC Women's Championship. The three ODIs will be followed by three T20Is.

The 28-year-old Maroof has played 105 ODIs and 103 T20Is. He was first appointed Pakistan captain in the T20I format in 2016 for the tour of England, before taking over as ODI captain post-ICC Women's World Cup 2017. To date, she has led Pakistan in 15 ODIs and 33 T20Is.

"The team is in good shape and has produced some good performances recently. There's a great deal of talent and passion in the girls and I look forward to carrying the momentum to the World Cup," she added.

On the other hand, Imam played 147 first-class matches from 1989 to 2005 during, which he scored 6,249 runs and took 136 wickets. 
He was named as the batting coach in April and was made interim head coach for the recent home series against Bangladesh after Mark Coles resigned from the position. 
"It is certainly an honour for me to be appointed as a head coach for the women's side. Women's cricket in Pakistan is improving day-by-day and we have a lot of talented girls emerging," Imam said.

"Our team has gotten off to a decent start this season by beat Bangladesh in T20I series and levelling the ODI series. There's a great potential in the side to do wonders and I aim to bring the best out of them," he added.

The team's performance will be reviewed after the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Australia 2020 before future decisions are made as the Pakistan women's team has no scheduled Future Tours Programme (FTP) or ICC commitments until the ICC Women's World Cup New Zealand 2021, which will be held from January 30 to February 20. 
ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 will be held in Australia from February 21 to March 8.

Bismah Maroof has been retained as captain while Iqbal Imam has got the role of the head coach of Pakistan women's team until next year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

Bismah Maroof has been retained as captain while Iqbal Imam has got the role of the head coach of Pakistan women's team until next year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup. "It is truly an honour for me to be continuing as Pakistan's captain and I look forward to leading the side in the next year's T20 World Cup," Maroof said in an official statement on Wednesday. Prior to Australia event in December, Pakistan team will take on England in Kuala Lumpur in the seventh round of ICC Women's Championship. The three ODIs will be followed by three T20Is. The 28-year-old Maroof has played 105 ODIs and 103 T20Is. He was first appointed Pakistan captain in the T20I format in 2016 for the tour of England, before taking over as ODI captain post-ICC Women's World Cup 2017. To date, she has led Pakistan in 15 ODIs and 33 T20Is. "The team is in good shape and has produced some good performances recently. There's a great deal of talent and passion in the girls and I look forward to carrying the momentum to the World Cup," she added. On the other hand, Imam played 147 first-class matches from 1989 to 2005 during, which he scored 6,249 runs and took 136 wickets. He was named as the batting coach in April and was made interim head coach for the recent home series against Bangladesh after Mark Coles resigned from the position. "It is certainly an honour for me to be appointed as a head coach for the women's side. Women's cricket in Pakistan is improving day-by-day and we have a lot of talented girls emerging," Imam said. "Our team has gotten off to a decent start this season by beat Bangladesh in T20I series and levelling the ODI series. There's a great potential in the side to do wonders and I aim to bring the best out of them," he added. The team's performance will be reviewed after the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Australia 2020 before future decisions are made as the Pakistan women's team has no scheduled Future Tours Programme (FTP) or ICC commitments until the ICC Women's World Cup New Zealand 2021, which will be held from January 30 to February 20. ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 will be held in Australia from February 21 to March 8.

Bismah Mahroof retained as Pakistan Women's team captain till ICC Women's T20 World cup, 2020

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has registered an unfortunate record to his name as he now has the most number of first-ball ducks in T20Is.

He achieved this embarrassing feat in the team's second T20I match against Sri Lanka in Lahore.

Akmal is followed by Sri Lanka's Tillakaratne Dilshan, Pakistan's Shahid Afridi and Bangladesh's Mashrafe Mortaza on the list of most number of first-ball ducks in T20Is.

Dilshan, Afridi and Mortaza have each been dismissed for a first-ball duck five times.

Akmal now also shares the record for bagging the most number of ducks in T20I cricket.

He had surpassed Afridi to script the maximum number of ducks in T20Is.

The 29-year-old last played a match for Pakistan in 2016 against the West Indies in Abu Dhabi.

Akmal has now been dismissed without registering a run in both T20I matches against Sri Lanka.

In the second match of the three-match T20I series, Sri Lanka posted a total of 182/6 in the allotted twenty overs after opting to bat first.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa scored 77 off just 48 balls for the Islanders. 
Chasing 183, Pakistan could only score 147 and suffered a 35-run defeat.

Inexperienced Sri Lanka have now won the series 2-0 with one match still to go against Pakistan, who is currently the world number one team in the shortest format of the game.

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has registered an unfortunate record to his name as he now has the most number of first-ball ducks in T20Is. He achieved this embarrassing feat in the team's second T20I match against Sri Lanka in Lahore.

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has registered an unfortunate record to his name as he now has the most number of first-ball ducks in T20Is. He achieved this embarrassing feat in the team's second T20I match against Sri Lanka in Lahore. Akmal is followed by Sri Lanka's Tillakaratne Dilshan, Pakistan's Shahid Afridi and Bangladesh's Mashrafe Mortaza on the list of most number of first-ball ducks in T20Is. Dilshan, Afridi and Mortaza have each been dismissed for a first-ball duck five times. Akmal now also shares the record for bagging the most number of ducks in T20I cricket. He had surpassed Afridi to script the maximum number of ducks in T20Is. The 29-year-old last played a match for Pakistan in 2016 against the West Indies in Abu Dhabi. Akmal has now been dismissed without registering a run in both T20I matches against Sri Lanka. In the second match of the three-match T20I series, Sri Lanka posted a total of 182/6 in the allotted twenty overs after opting to bat first. Bhanuka Rajapaksa scored 77 off just 48 balls for the Islanders. Chasing 183, Pakistan could only score 147 and suffered a 35-run defeat. Inexperienced Sri Lanka have now won the series 2-0 with one match still to go against Pakistan, who is currently the world number one team in the shortest format of the game.

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal creates embarrassing record in T20Is

After showcasing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-wants-india-to-step-out-of-comfort-zone-ahead-of-world-t20-251440">brilliant performance against India</a> on Sunday, South Africa captain Quinton de Kock said team's hard work has paid off.

South Africa, throughout the series, displayed amazing fielding. With the combination of good fielding and bowling, they restricted India to 134 runs in the third T20I.

The Proteas then easily chased the target to register a nine-wicket victory.

"Coming into the series, we worked really hard on our catching and fielding in general. It is a good feeling to see everything coming together, from a captain's point of view and from the team`s point of view. It is nice to see that hard work pays off," De Kock said in a post-match press conference.

Bjorn Fortuin took two wickets in the match and conceded 19 runs from his three overs. De Kock praised Fortuin saying, "I am impressed with Bjorn Fortuin, a young spinner."

"The Indian team is very good to play spinners and to bowl the way he did, I can only praise him at the highest level," he added.&nbsp;

With this win, South Africa levelled the three-match T-20 series against India. South Africa batsman Rassie van der Dussen, who accompanied De Kock during the press conference, called De Kock a world-class player and said he led from the front as De Kock played an unbeaten knock of 79 runs during the chase.

"We probably would have bowled first and I think they did not add enough runs to really put us under pressure. Quinton is a world-class player.... We came here with a goal to win and send a strong message and captain led from the front," he said.

After showcasing a brilliant performance against India on Sunday, South Africa captain Quinton de Kock said team's hard work has paid off. South Africa, throughout the series, displayed amazing fielding.

After showcasing a brilliant performance against India on Sunday, South Africa captain Quinton de Kock said team's hard work has paid off. South Africa, throughout the series, displayed amazing fielding. With the combination of good fielding and bowling, they restricted India to 134 runs in the third T20I. The Proteas then easily chased the target to register a nine-wicket victory. "Coming into the series, we worked really hard on our catching and fielding in general. It is a good feeling to see everything coming together, from a captain's point of view and from the team`s point of view. It is nice to see that hard work pays off," De Kock said in a post-match press conference. Bjorn Fortuin took two wickets in the match and conceded 19 runs from his three overs. De Kock praised Fortuin saying, "I am impressed with Bjorn Fortuin, a young spinner." "The Indian team is very good to play spinners and to bowl the way he did, I can only praise him at the highest level," he added. With this win, South Africa levelled the three-match T-20 series against India. South Africa batsman Rassie van der Dussen, who accompanied De Kock during the press conference, called De Kock a world-class player and said he led from the front as De Kock played an unbeaten knock of 79 runs during the chase. "We probably would have bowled first and I think they did not add enough runs to really put us under pressure. Quinton is a world-class player.... We came here with a goal to win and send a strong message and captain led from the front," he said.

Hard work paid off, says Quinton de Kock after defeating India

England ended their Caribbean tour on an upbeat note when they thrashed West Indies by eight wickets in the final Twenty20 international on Sunday to sweep the three-match series.

Fast-medium bowler David Willey rattled through West Indies' top order, taking 4-7 off three overs as England dismissed the home team for a paltry 71 in 13 overs at Basseterre in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The capitulation left West Indies with the ignominy of being the first team to score less than 75 in consecutive T20 internationals, following their 45-run total in the second game on Friday.

No West Indies batsman scored more than 11.

It took England just 10.3 overs to polish off their victory target, Jonny Bairstow scoring a quickfire 37.

The dye was cast from the first ball on a slowish wicket when Shai Hope gave an easy catch to short cover off Willey, who was named man-of-the-match.

"My role up front there is to try to swing the new ball," Willey said. "Tonight it didn't swing a great deal but I put it in the right area and there was a bit of hold in the pitch for me and it forced some errors from the West Indies."

Captain Eoin Morgan was particularly pleased with the performance of some of his fringe players who got a chance to play when several first-choice players were rested.

"Guys who don't get a huge amount of opportunities have stuck their hand up on numerous occasions and it's really exciting to see," Morgan said, naming bowlers Willey and Chris Jordan and batsmen Sam Billings and Joe Denly.

West Indies captain Jason Holder said his team needed to learn to adjust to the batting conditions.

"If conditions aren't true in terms of the ball coming onto the bat we've got to adapt and set it up for our middle and lower (order) in the back half of the innings," he said.

England return home having improved as their tour progressed. They lost the Test series 2-1 then drew the one-dayers 2-2 before sweeping the Twenty20 matches.

England ended their Caribbean tour on an upbeat note when they thrashed West Indies by eight wickets in the final Twenty20 international on Sunday to sweep the three-match series.

England ended their Caribbean tour on an upbeat note when they thrashed West Indies by eight wickets in the final Twenty20 international on Sunday to sweep the three-match series. Fast-medium bowler David Willey rattled through West Indies' top order, taking 4-7 off three overs as England dismissed the home team for a paltry 71 in 13 overs at Basseterre in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The capitulation left West Indies with the ignominy of being the first team to score less than 75 in consecutive T20 internationals, following their 45-run total in the second game on Friday. No West Indies batsman scored more than 11. It took England just 10.3 overs to polish off their victory target, Jonny Bairstow scoring a quickfire 37. The dye was cast from the first ball on a slowish wicket when Shai Hope gave an easy catch to short cover off Willey, who was named man-of-the-match. "My role up front there is to try to swing the new ball," Willey said. "Tonight it didn't swing a great deal but I put it in the right area and there was a bit of hold in the pitch for me and it forced some errors from the West Indies." Captain Eoin Morgan was particularly pleased with the performance of some of his fringe players who got a chance to play when several first-choice players were rested. "Guys who don't get a huge amount of opportunities have stuck their hand up on numerous occasions and it's really exciting to see," Morgan said, naming bowlers Willey and Chris Jordan and batsmen Sam Billings and Joe Denly. West Indies captain Jason Holder said his team needed to learn to adjust to the batting conditions. "If conditions aren't true in terms of the ball coming onto the bat we've got to adapt and set it up for our middle and lower (order) in the back half of the innings," he said. England return home having improved as their tour progressed. They lost the Test series 2-1 then drew the one-dayers 2-2 before sweeping the Twenty20 matches.

ENGvsWI, 3rd T20I: England beat Windies again to sweep T20 series

India captain Virat Kohli wasn't perturbed by his team's shoddy batting performance in the first T20 International as he is looking to give more chances to youngsters KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant looking ahead at the World Cup in England.&nbsp;

Rahul made an impressive half-century on his comeback but Pant was needlessly run-out during India's three-wicket defeat against Australia in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-australia-beat-india-by-three-wickets-in-last-ball-thriller-lead-series-1-0-199415">first T20 International</a>.

Chasing a target of 127, Australia were cruising along before Jasprit Bumrah's (3/16 in 4 overs) brilliant 19th over nearly won the game for India.

"We want to give Rahul and Rishab more game-time. Rahul played a really good knock and we had a good partnership. Had we gone on, we could have got 150, which would have been a match-winning score on this pitch. But Australia played better cricket overall and deserved to win," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

However, he didn't forget to praise his bowlers for making a match of a low target like 127.

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Australia win a thriller here at Vizag 
 
Win by 3 wickets in the 1st T20I <a href="https://t.co/qKQdie3Ayg">https://t.co/qKQdie3Ayg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/hMwOZbWjY2">pic.twitter.com/hMwOZbWjY2</a>
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"Very pleased with the bowling effort. Never thought we would be in this situation but Bumrah can do wonders when the ball is reversing. Even Mayank (Markande) bowled brilliantly (17th over), I thought," said Kohli.

Winning captain Aaron Finch also conceded that facing Bumrah in the death overs is not an easy proposition.&nbsp;

"When Bumrah has got overs up his sleeve, it's never easy. But the run-outs didn't help either. Maxwell played a hell of an innings on a difficult pitch," Finch lauded the senior batsman.

Pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was the pick of the Aussie bowlers with figures of three for 26, felt that the ball wasn't coming onto the bat.&nbsp;

"I thought the boys bowled really well and we scraped home. We worked out quickly that the ball was not coming on to the bat. We have been playing a bit of cricket in the BBL. Really good to have a win and hopefully we will have another one and win the series," said Coulter-Nile.

India captain Virat Kohli wasn't perturbed by his team's shoddy batting performance in the first T20 International as he is looking to give more chances to youngsters KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant looking ahead at the World Cup in England.

India captain Virat Kohli wasn't perturbed by his team's shoddy batting performance in the first T20 International as he is looking to give more chances to youngsters KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant looking ahead at the World Cup in England. Rahul made an impressive half-century on his comeback but Pant was needlessly run-out during India's three-wicket defeat against Australia in the first T20 International. Chasing a target of 127, Australia were cruising along before Jasprit Bumrah's (3/16 in 4 overs) brilliant 19th over nearly won the game for India. "We want to give Rahul and Rishab more game-time. Rahul played a really good knock and we had a good partnership. Had we gone on, we could have got 150, which would have been a match-winning score on this pitch. But Australia played better cricket overall and deserved to win," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony. However, he didn't forget to praise his bowlers for making a match of a low target like 127. Australia win a thriller here at Vizag Win by 3 wickets in the 1st T20I https://t.co/qKQdie3Ayg #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/hMwOZbWjY2 — BCCI (@BCCI) 24 February 2019 × "Very pleased with the bowling effort. Never thought we would be in this situation but Bumrah can do wonders when the ball is reversing. Even Mayank (Markande) bowled brilliantly (17th over), I thought," said Kohli. Winning captain Aaron Finch also conceded that facing Bumrah in the death overs is not an easy proposition. "When Bumrah has got overs up his sleeve, it's never easy. But the run-outs didn't help either. Maxwell played a hell of an innings on a difficult pitch," Finch lauded the senior batsman. Pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was the pick of the Aussie bowlers with figures of three for 26, felt that the ball wasn't coming onto the bat. "I thought the boys bowled really well and we scraped home. We worked out quickly that the ball was not coming on to the bat. We have been playing a bit of cricket in the BBL. Really good to have a win and hopefully we will have another one and win the series," said Coulter-Nile.

We want to give KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant game time: Virat Kohli

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.&nbsp;

The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales.

With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list.

Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list.

Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself.

For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury.

Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia.

The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs.

With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered.

Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin.

While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times.&nbsp;

However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony.&nbsp;

India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport.

It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0.&nbsp;

But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May.

Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats.

He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship.&nbsp;

Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games.

The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17.

Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate).&nbsp;

He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75).&nbsp;

The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.&nbsp;

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday. The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales. With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list. Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list. Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself. For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury. Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia. The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs. With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered. Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin. While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times. However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony. India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport. It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0. But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May. Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats. He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship. Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games. The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17. Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate). He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75). The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.

INDvsAUS, 1st T20I: Keeping World Cup in mind, India & Australia set to lock horns

Former&nbsp;cricketer Matthew Hayden dropped in and had a long chat with&nbsp;Australian players during their net session ahead of T20I series against India at the ACA-VDCA Stadium.&nbsp;

The former opener was invited by current Australian coach Justin Langer.&nbsp;

India and Australia will play seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five One-Day Internationals before World Cup, which will kick off from May 30 in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Hayden, who is considered as one of the finest players of spin bowling,&nbsp;shared his knowledge to help Australians tackle Indian bowlers during the limited-over series starts with the first Twenty20 in Visakhapatnam on February 24. &nbsp;

Hayden helped Australian batsmen to understand bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal.&nbsp;

While Kuldeep has been rested for the two-match T20 series but Australia will be facing Chahal and left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

Hayden was seen demonstrating shot selection to the players as he accompanied the side during their full practice session.&nbsp;

"It was great obviously to have JL's (Justin Langer) great mate and a legend of the game come back and someone who's had so much success here in India as a batsman to to get around to this field the boys and have a good chat was great," Finch said at the news conference.&nbsp;

Apart from batting techniques, Hayden also gave tips on slip catching.&nbsp;

"He was a great slip catcher, so anything that the guys can learn, he was chatting about batting especially at the top of the order stuff,"&nbsp;Finch added.&nbsp;

Australia have also roped in the Kerala's left-arm chinaman spinner KK Jiyas and Mumbai legspinner Pardeep Sahu in their support staff to help them out with the tricks of playing against the wrist spin.&nbsp;

Earlier during India's tour Down Under last year, the Aussies were seen with sessions under Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting and then Shane Warner in the first three Tests.&nbsp;

Former cricketer Matthew Hayden dropped in and had a long chat with Australian players during their net session ahead of T20I series against India at the ACA-VDCA Stadium.

Former cricketer Matthew Hayden dropped in and had a long chat with Australian players during their net session ahead of T20I series against India at the ACA-VDCA Stadium. The former opener was invited by current Australian coach Justin Langer. India and Australia will play seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five One-Day Internationals before World Cup, which will kick off from May 30 in England and Wales. Hayden, who is considered as one of the finest players of spin bowling, shared his knowledge to help Australians tackle Indian bowlers during the limited-over series starts with the first Twenty20 in Visakhapatnam on February 24. Hayden helped Australian batsmen to understand bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal. While Kuldeep has been rested for the two-match T20 series but Australia will be facing Chahal and left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue Hayden was seen demonstrating shot selection to the players as he accompanied the side during their full practice session. "It was great obviously to have JL's (Justin Langer) great mate and a legend of the game come back and someone who's had so much success here in India as a batsman to to get around to this field the boys and have a good chat was great," Finch said at the news conference. Apart from batting techniques, Hayden also gave tips on slip catching. "He was a great slip catcher, so anything that the guys can learn, he was chatting about batting especially at the top of the order stuff," Finch added. Australia have also roped in the Kerala's left-arm chinaman spinner KK Jiyas and Mumbai legspinner Pardeep Sahu in their support staff to help them out with the tricks of playing against the wrist spin. Earlier during India's tour Down Under last year, the Aussies were seen with sessions under Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting and then Shane Warner in the first three Tests.

India vs Australia: Matthew Hayden drops in at Oz nets to help players tackle Indian bowlers

Hazratullah Zazai smashed the ball to every corner of the ground, and even out of the stadium, as Afghanistan racked up a world record T20 score of 278-3 in a crushing demolition of Ireland on Saturday.

The 20-year-old Zazai's unbeaten 162 included 16 sixes and 11 fours, delighting Afghan fans in the Indian city of Dehradun.

His haul of sixes was another record, as was his stand of 236 with fellow opener Usman Ghani and the 22 sixes scored in all by Afganistan's players.&nbsp;

Ireland captain Paul Stirling also hit a six off the first ball of his side's innings as they chased a mammoth 13.95 runs an over to keep up.&nbsp;

But they ended on 194-6 and Afghanistan won by 84 runs to wrap up the three-match series with a game to spare.

"It was a pretty disappointing night," said Stirling. "We need to regroup now."

The night of cricket fireworks belonged to Afghanistan -- who overtook Australia's 260-3 against Sri Lanka in 2016 -- and Zazai, who plundered his giant innings off just 62 balls.

"I just wanted to play my natural game and today was my day," he said. "The wicket was good for batting."

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Did you lose track of the many, many records that fell during Afghanistan's victory over Ireland yesterday? 
 
This should come in handy.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvIRE</a> READ 👇<a href="https://t.co/W5gu5yYefQ">https://t.co/W5gu5yYefQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/c8e1Na37es">pic.twitter.com/c8e1Na37es</a>
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Sixes galore

After managing just seven runs from their first two overs, Zazai and Ghani flailed the Irish bowlers, who from then barely managed an over without conceding a six.

Zazai made his century off just 42 balls -- the second quickest in T20 internationals -- completed with the ninth six of his innings. Four of the sixes came off Kevin O'Brien in the 17th over which reaped 28 runs in all.

One giant hit off Shane Gelkate went over the stands and out of the ground.

Zazai's stocks have risen dramatically despite missing a place in the Indian Premier League this season were dashed.&nbsp;

In October, he became only the third batsman to hit six sixes in a T20 over for his Afghanistan Premier League side Kabul Zwanan.

He equalled the record for the fastest T20 half-century in 12 balls in the same match.

Stirling hardly knew who to throw into the breach as a bowler.&nbsp;

Boyd Rankin finally claimed a wicket for the Irish when Ghani -- who made 73 off 43 balls -- played a careless shot over long-on that Joshua Little caught diving as he ran in from the boundary.

While Stirling and Kevin O'Brien were no slouches, they never kept up with the mountainous run rate, which had risen to 17 by the 10th over.

Afghanistan's star bowler Rashid Khan came on for the 11th over and was furious when captain Asghar Afghan spilled a relatively simple catch off his first ball to give O'Brien a chance with Ireland on 109.&nbsp;

O'Brien was bowled in the next over by Fareed Ahmad for a 37 which included two sixes.

Rashid bowled Andy Balbirnie in the following over for two and Stirling started to run out of reliable partners.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed Stirling -- who as a consolation made Ireland's top T20 score of 91 off 50 balls -- when he was caught by replacement Najeeb Tarakai on the boundary.

The final match of the series is on Sunday. The two play five one-day internationals from February 28 and a one-off Test in March.

Hazratullah Zazai smashed the ball to every corner of the ground, and even out of the stadium, as Afghanistan racked up a world record T20 score of 278-3 in a crushing demolition of Ireland on Saturday.

Hazratullah Zazai smashed the ball to every corner of the ground, and even out of the stadium, as Afghanistan racked up a world record T20 score of 278-3 in a crushing demolition of Ireland on Saturday. The 20-year-old Zazai's unbeaten 162 included 16 sixes and 11 fours, delighting Afghan fans in the Indian city of Dehradun. His haul of sixes was another record, as was his stand of 236 with fellow opener Usman Ghani and the 22 sixes scored in all by Afganistan's players. Ireland captain Paul Stirling also hit a six off the first ball of his side's innings as they chased a mammoth 13.95 runs an over to keep up. But they ended on 194-6 and Afghanistan won by 84 runs to wrap up the three-match series with a game to spare. "It was a pretty disappointing night," said Stirling. "We need to regroup now." The night of cricket fireworks belonged to Afghanistan -- who overtook Australia's 260-3 against Sri Lanka in 2016 -- and Zazai, who plundered his giant innings off just 62 balls. "I just wanted to play my natural game and today was my day," he said. "The wicket was good for batting." Did you lose track of the many, many records that fell during Afghanistan's victory over Ireland yesterday? This should come in handy.#AFGvIRE READ 👇https://t.co/W5gu5yYefQ pic.twitter.com/c8e1Na37es — ICC (@ICC) February 24, 2019 × Sixes galore After managing just seven runs from their first two overs, Zazai and Ghani flailed the Irish bowlers, who from then barely managed an over without conceding a six. Zazai made his century off just 42 balls -- the second quickest in T20 internationals -- completed with the ninth six of his innings. Four of the sixes came off Kevin O'Brien in the 17th over which reaped 28 runs in all. One giant hit off Shane Gelkate went over the stands and out of the ground. Zazai's stocks have risen dramatically despite missing a place in the Indian Premier League this season were dashed. In October, he became only the third batsman to hit six sixes in a T20 over for his Afghanistan Premier League side Kabul Zwanan. He equalled the record for the fastest T20 half-century in 12 balls in the same match. Stirling hardly knew who to throw into the breach as a bowler. Boyd Rankin finally claimed a wicket for the Irish when Ghani -- who made 73 off 43 balls -- played a careless shot over long-on that Joshua Little caught diving as he ran in from the boundary. While Stirling and Kevin O'Brien were no slouches, they never kept up with the mountainous run rate, which had risen to 17 by the 10th over. Afghanistan's star bowler Rashid Khan came on for the 11th over and was furious when captain Asghar Afghan spilled a relatively simple catch off his first ball to give O'Brien a chance with Ireland on 109. O'Brien was bowled in the next over by Fareed Ahmad for a 37 which included two sixes. Rashid bowled Andy Balbirnie in the following over for two and Stirling started to run out of reliable partners. Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed Stirling -- who as a consolation made Ireland's top T20 score of 91 off 50 balls -- when he was caught by replacement Najeeb Tarakai on the boundary. The final match of the series is on Sunday. The two play five one-day internationals from February 28 and a one-off Test in March.

Afghanistan hit world record T20 score as Hazratullah Zazai demolishes Ireland bowlers

India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Virat+Kohli">Virat Kohli</a> feels that it would have been "more logical" if his team could have played a couple of more ODIs instead of the two T20 Internationals as a part of their World Cup preparations.&nbsp;

India are playing two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against Australia in what will be their last international assignment before the opening World Cup fixture against South Africa in Southampton on June 5. &nbsp;

"Probably, a couple of more ODIs would have been more beneficial for both the teams not just us. It would have been more ideal and logical," Kohli said on the eve of the opening T20.&nbsp;

Even though it's a T20 game, Kohli would like to treat these shortest format games also an extended preparation for the World Cup.&nbsp;

"But look we have to utilise what's in front of us as best as possible. And as I said we're going to look to get into the right kind of frame of mind as a team," the skipper added.&nbsp;

The core team for the World Cup is set but skipper didn't rule out an exceptional performer getting a look in.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indo-pak-world-cup-game-we-will-respect-government-decision-199134">Virat Kohli on Indo-Pak World Cup game: We will respect government decision</a>

"We're more or less sorted. But through the course of the series you might see something which might surprise you as a team and which you might want to change immediately. But those are things that are upon how circumstances come in front of you," he said.&nbsp;

As of now, we feel pretty balanced as a side and I don't see any concerns or areas that we need to think about anymore. Everything is more or less sorted," world's No 1 batsman sounded quite assured.&nbsp;

The skipper didn't reveal whether leg-spinner Mayank Markande will be given preference over regular wrist spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Chahal and Krunal Pandya have been the two specialist spinners in the T20 format.&nbsp;

"Look, he (Markande) has been given an opportunity because he's done well. It's purely giving a youngster a chance, who has done well over the last couple of seasons and bowled well in the IPL and T20 cricket."&nbsp;

The Indian captain marked Marcus Stoinis as the most dangerous player in the Aussie set-up. Stoinis is set to play in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore.&nbsp;

Kohli termed Aussie all-rounder Marcus Stoinis as a threat for the upcoming series. Stoinis scored 533 at 53.30 with a strike rate of 130.63 for his franchise Melbourne Stars in the BBL. &nbsp;

"If I had to single out one player that can make more impact, that would be Stoinis. He has come around really well during the BBL and he's making stand out performances. You can see he's grown in confidence and he's definitely going to be a very important player for them."&nbsp;

"A few of the guys have done really well in the BBL. But from the last time that we played, the games were close contests, both of them. One was washed out, but the other two were really exciting games. We obviously expect a stiff competition overall from the Australian team," he signed off.&nbsp;

India captain Virat Kohli feels that it would have been "more logical" if his team could have played a couple of more ODIs instead of the two T20 Internationals as a part of their World Cup preparations.

India captain Virat Kohli feels that it would have been "more logical" if his team could have played a couple of more ODIs instead of the two T20 Internationals as a part of their World Cup preparations. India are playing two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against Australia in what will be their last international assignment before the opening World Cup fixture against South Africa in Southampton on June 5. "Probably, a couple of more ODIs would have been more beneficial for both the teams not just us. It would have been more ideal and logical," Kohli said on the eve of the opening T20. Even though it's a T20 game, Kohli would like to treat these shortest format games also an extended preparation for the World Cup. "But look we have to utilise what's in front of us as best as possible. And as I said we're going to look to get into the right kind of frame of mind as a team," the skipper added. The core team for the World Cup is set but skipper didn't rule out an exceptional performer getting a look in. Also Read: Virat Kohli on Indo-Pak World Cup game: We will respect government decision "We're more or less sorted. But through the course of the series you might see something which might surprise you as a team and which you might want to change immediately. But those are things that are upon how circumstances come in front of you," he said. As of now, we feel pretty balanced as a side and I don't see any concerns or areas that we need to think about anymore. Everything is more or less sorted," world's No 1 batsman sounded quite assured. The skipper didn't reveal whether leg-spinner Mayank Markande will be given preference over regular wrist spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Chahal and Krunal Pandya have been the two specialist spinners in the T20 format. "Look, he (Markande) has been given an opportunity because he's done well. It's purely giving a youngster a chance, who has done well over the last couple of seasons and bowled well in the IPL and T20 cricket." The Indian captain marked Marcus Stoinis as the most dangerous player in the Aussie set-up. Stoinis is set to play in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Kohli termed Aussie all-rounder Marcus Stoinis as a threat for the upcoming series. Stoinis scored 533 at 53.30 with a strike rate of 130.63 for his franchise Melbourne Stars in the BBL. "If I had to single out one player that can make more impact, that would be Stoinis. He has come around really well during the BBL and he's making stand out performances. You can see he's grown in confidence and he's definitely going to be a very important player for them." "A few of the guys have done really well in the BBL. But from the last time that we played, the games were close contests, both of them. One was washed out, but the other two were really exciting games. We obviously expect a stiff competition overall from the Australian team," he signed off.

Logical would have been to play couple of more ODIs ahead of World Cup: Virat Kohli

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