<p>Babar Azam-led Pakistan opened their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by locking horns with Team India in the Super 12 clash, on Sunday (October 23) at the MCG, Melbourne. In a riveting clash, Pakistan lost on the final ball of the encounter as Virat Kohli's 82 not out propelled the one-time winners to a thrilling four-wicket win after they were reeling at 31 for 4 in pursuit of 160.</p>

<p>After the defeat, many former Pakistani cricketers have raised fingers at Babar's leadership. The criticism has been levied upon Babar for not using Mohammad Nawaz properly and making him bowl the final over. Some also feel Pakistan need to have a sixth bowling option in the upcoming games and, hence, weren't satisfied with the team selection for the India face-off. In addition, the ploy to keep Md Rizwan stand a few steps behind the stumps to Nawaz baffled many (which was mainly done to save the byes, etc). Recently, former Pakistan skipper Saleem Malik has lashed out at Babar and asked him to leave captaincy.</p>

<p>Speaking on 24 News, Malik said, “<em>Yeh pressure wala situation and aise time main senior player ka bohot bada role hota hai. Agar captain to nehi samjh aa raha uss waqt ya lag raha he ki galat decision le raha hain then aap jaake bata sakte hain ki woh galat jaa rahein hai. Iisiliye main humesha kehta hu ki fast bowler ke sath ke senior banda khara hona chaiye jo usko bataye. Itne saalo ke baad bhi agar aapko captaincy nahi aati then aapko chor dena chaiye. Agar same mistakes baar baar kar rahein hai toh best hai ki captaincy nehi karni chaiye. Bohot saare logon ne captaincy chori hai</em>&nbsp;(Senior players play an important role in these kind of pressure situations. If the captain is not able to make a good decision, he can ttalk to seniors where he is going wrong. That's why I always say that a senior player should be with a fast bowler, who can advise him. After so many years, if you are not able to lead properly then it's best to leave it. Many have left it in the past, if you keep making same mistakes again and again, no harm in leaving the captaincy.)"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-babar-azams-captaincy-is-like-a-sacred-cow-that-cannot-be-criticized-says-md-hafeez-528136"><strong>T20 WC: Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized, says Md Hafeez</strong></a></p>

<p>After the clash, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has also criticised Babar and told&nbsp;<em>Rahi Cricke</em>t, "Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized. It's the third consecutive big game that we are seeing flaws in Babar captaincy, but we keep hearing that by the time he gets to the age of 32 he will learn. In today's match, from the 7th over till the 11th over, when India were struggling for even 4 runs an over, why did Babar not fulfil the spin quota overs in that time frame?."</p>

<p>Babar-led Pakistan will now face Zimbabwe in their next T20 WC match, at Perth, on Thursday (October 27) in a bid to keep their semi-finals hopes alive.</p>


Babar Azam-led Pakistan opened their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by locking horns with Team India in the Super 12 clash, on Sunday (October 23) at the MCG, Melbourne.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan opened their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by locking horns with Team India in the Super 12 clash, on Sunday (October 23) at the MCG, Melbourne. In a riveting clash, Pakistan lost on the final ball of the encounter as Virat Kohli's 82 not out propelled the one-time winners to a thrilling four-wicket win after they were reeling at 31 for 4 in pursuit of 160. After the defeat, many former Pakistani cricketers have raised fingers at Babar's leadership. The criticism has been levied upon Babar for not using Mohammad Nawaz properly and making him bowl the final over. Some also feel Pakistan need to have a sixth bowling option in the upcoming games and, hence, weren't satisfied with the team selection for the India face-off. In addition, the ploy to keep Md Rizwan stand a few steps behind the stumps to Nawaz baffled many (which was mainly done to save the byes, etc). Recently, former Pakistan skipper Saleem Malik has lashed out at Babar and asked him to leave captaincy. Speaking on 24 News, Malik said, “Yeh pressure wala situation and aise time main senior player ka bohot bada role hota hai. Agar captain to nehi samjh aa raha uss waqt ya lag raha he ki galat decision le raha hain then aap jaake bata sakte hain ki woh galat jaa rahein hai. Iisiliye main humesha kehta hu ki fast bowler ke sath ke senior banda khara hona chaiye jo usko bataye. Itne saalo ke baad bhi agar aapko captaincy nahi aati then aapko chor dena chaiye. Agar same mistakes baar baar kar rahein hai toh best hai ki captaincy nehi karni chaiye. Bohot saare logon ne captaincy chori hai (Senior players play an important role in these kind of pressure situations. If the captain is not able to make a good decision, he can ttalk to seniors where he is going wrong. That's why I always say that a senior player should be with a fast bowler, who can advise him. After so many years, if you are not able to lead properly then it's best to leave it. Many have left it in the past, if you keep making same mistakes again and again, no harm in leaving the captaincy.)" ALSO READ | T20 WC: Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized, says Md Hafeez After the clash, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has also criticised Babar and told Rahi Cricket, "Babar Azam's captaincy is like a sacred cow that cannot be criticized. It's the third consecutive big game that we are seeing flaws in Babar captaincy, but we keep hearing that by the time he gets to the age of 32 he will learn. In today's match, from the 7th over till the 11th over, when India were struggling for even 4 runs an over, why did Babar not fulfil the spin quota overs in that time frame?." Babar-led Pakistan will now face Zimbabwe in their next T20 WC match, at Perth, on Thursday (October 27) in a bid to keep their semi-finals hopes alive.

'If you're not able to lead, best to leave captaincy' - Ex-Pak skipper tells Babar Azam after India defeat

<p>West Indies head coach Phil Simmons will step down from his role at the end of this year, following the Caribbean side's debacle at the ongoing T20 World Cup where they failed to reach the Super 12 stage.</p>

<p>West Indies, the T20 World Cup's most successful team with triumphs in 2012 and 2016, crashed out of the showpiece event in the group stage, after losses to Scotland and Ireland. They beat Zimbabwe in the round-robin league but that was good enough to finish at the bottom of the four-team group.</p>

<p>This was the first time West Indies failed to advance further from the group stage since the inaugural tournament in South Africa in 2007.</p>

<p>"His last assignment will be the upcoming two-Test series against Australia from 30 November to 12 December," Cricket West Indies (CWI) said in a statement on Monday night.</p>

<p>Some reports in the local media said that his contract requires that he gives his employers 12 weeks' notice and hence his exit will happen in January next year.</p>

<p>The 59-year-old, a former West Indies all-rounder, described the side's early exit from the T20 World Cup as unfathomable.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-surpasses-rahul-dravid-to-become-sixth-highest-run-getter-in-international-cricket-528017">Virat Kohli surpasses Rahul Dravid to become sixth-highest run-getter in international cricket</a></p>

<p>"I acknowledge that it's not just the team that is hurting but the proud nations we represent as well. It's disappointing and heart wrenching but we just didn't turn up," Simmons said in the statement.</p>

<p>"We weren't good enough and we now have to watch a tournament play-out without our involvement. It's unfathomable and for that I deeply apologise to our fans and followers," said Simmons who played 26 Tests and 143 ODIs from 1987 to 1999.</p>

<p>He was at the helm of affairs in 2016 when West Indies won their second T20 World Cup title, defeating England at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. After his first short stint, Simmons was appointed head coach again in October 2019 for a four-year tenure. However, he was controversially dismissed at that time also.</p>

<p>"From a personal perspective this is not a knee-jerk reaction, but a move I have been considering for some time, and now is the time to make public that I will step down as West Indies Head Coach at the end of the Test series against Australia.</p>

<p>"It is earlier than hoped for, but I will now focus my energies in Australia on continuing to build on the excellent progress the Test team has made."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-dont-have-eagle-eyes-shahid-afridi-slams-umpires-over-controversial-no-ball-call-in-india-pakistan-clash-528216">You dont have eagle eyes: Shahid Afridi slams umpires over controversial no-ball call in India-Pakistan clash</a></p>

<p>Simmons also said that there would be a review of West Indies' disastrous performance in the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>"Of course, as the President has pointed out, we will also carry out the necessary review into our World Cup campaign,"&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Simmons guided West Indies to a hard-fought 1-0 Test series win over England at home to capture the Richards-Botham Trophy. Under his tutelage West Indies also won a Test series against Bangladesh in their last outing.</p>


West Indies head coach Phil Simmons will step down from his role at the end of this year, following the Caribbean side's debacle at the ongoing T20 World Cup where they failed to reach the Super 12 stage.

West Indies head coach Phil Simmons will step down from his role at the end of this year, following the Caribbean side's debacle at the ongoing T20 World Cup where they failed to reach the Super 12 stage. West Indies, the T20 World Cup's most successful team with triumphs in 2012 and 2016, crashed out of the showpiece event in the group stage, after losses to Scotland and Ireland. They beat Zimbabwe in the round-robin league but that was good enough to finish at the bottom of the four-team group. This was the first time West Indies failed to advance further from the group stage since the inaugural tournament in South Africa in 2007. "His last assignment will be the upcoming two-Test series against Australia from 30 November to 12 December," Cricket West Indies (CWI) said in a statement on Monday night. Some reports in the local media said that his contract requires that he gives his employers 12 weeks' notice and hence his exit will happen in January next year. The 59-year-old, a former West Indies all-rounder, described the side's early exit from the T20 World Cup as unfathomable. Also Read: Virat Kohli surpasses Rahul Dravid to become sixth-highest run-getter in international cricket "I acknowledge that it's not just the team that is hurting but the proud nations we represent as well. It's disappointing and heart wrenching but we just didn't turn up," Simmons said in the statement. "We weren't good enough and we now have to watch a tournament play-out without our involvement. It's unfathomable and for that I deeply apologise to our fans and followers," said Simmons who played 26 Tests and 143 ODIs from 1987 to 1999. He was at the helm of affairs in 2016 when West Indies won their second T20 World Cup title, defeating England at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. After his first short stint, Simmons was appointed head coach again in October 2019 for a four-year tenure. However, he was controversially dismissed at that time also. "From a personal perspective this is not a knee-jerk reaction, but a move I have been considering for some time, and now is the time to make public that I will step down as West Indies Head Coach at the end of the Test series against Australia. "It is earlier than hoped for, but I will now focus my energies in Australia on continuing to build on the excellent progress the Test team has made." Also Read: You dont have eagle eyes: Shahid Afridi slams umpires over controversial no-ball call in India-Pakistan clash Simmons also said that there would be a review of West Indies' disastrous performance in the T20 World Cup. "Of course, as the President has pointed out, we will also carry out the necessary review into our World Cup campaign," he said. Earlier this year, Simmons guided West Indies to a hard-fought 1-0 Test series win over England at home to capture the Richards-Botham Trophy. Under his tutelage West Indies also won a Test series against Bangladesh in their last outing.

Phil Simmons to step down as West Indies head coach following their T20 World Cup debacle

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


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

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

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

<p>India beat Pakistan by four wickets on the last ball of the Super 12 contest at the T20 World Cup on Sunday (October 23). Chasing a competitive 160, India was struggling at 31 for 4 before a solid 113-run fifth-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (82 not out) and all-rounder Hardik Pandya (40) revived the run-chase and took their side to a memorable win.</p>

<p>The last over started with India needing 16 off the last six balls. While Hardik perished off the first ball, there was a lot of drama that followed suit. A waist-high delivery, which went for a six, was followed by a no-ball and a free-hit whereas another wicket fell before R Ashwin struck a boundary on the last delivery to get India past the finish line.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rahul-dravid-hugs-virat-kohli-after-india-beat-pakistan-in-a-humdinger-at-mcg-watch-527882">T20 WC: Rahul Dravid hugs Virat Kohli after India beat Pakistan in a humdinger at MCG - watch</a></strong></p>

<p>After the last-over drama, head coach Rahul Dravid couldn't control his emotions and broke into animated celebrations after India pulled off a heist over Pakistan. <strong>Here's the viral video:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A packed MCG chanting for Virat Kohli 🏟<br />
<br />
Raw vision: Behind the scenes of India’s sensational win 📹<br />
<br />
Goosebumps. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/MNjmOLKO7r">pic.twitter.com/MNjmOLKO7r</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1584231304333119489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit Sharma said, "Those two guys (Kohli and Pandya) are experienced. Staying calm and taking the game deep was very critical. Good for our confidence. Always crucial to get off the mark like this. We were in no position to win this. The way we won that's more pleasing for us. Hats off to Virat for the way he batted, has to be the best innings he has played for India. I would like to thank everyone, it's wonderful to see. Their support for us is very, very crucial wherever we go."</p>


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

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

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

<p>Virat Kohli turned out to be the saviour for India as he smashed a stunning knock of unbeaten 82 to help India clinch a last-ball thriller by four wickets against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. It was yet another chasing masterclass from Kohli, who looked in sublime control throughout his innings.</p>

<p>Having returned to form in the Asia Cup earlier this year after a prolonged rough patch, all eyes were on Kohli on Sunday as India found themselves in trouble early on in the 160-run chase against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). India were reeling at 31/4 inside the first seven overs with their hopes diminishing after a disastrous start.</p>

<p>However, Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to spark a turnaround for the Men in Blue as he went on to play one of the best knocks of his career so far. Kohli scored 82 off 53 balls studded with four sixes and six fours to combine with Hardik Pandya (40) and take the game down the wire.</p>

<p>With 48 to get off the last three overs, Kohli upped the ante in stunning fashion and took the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf to the cleaners before taking India closer to victory in the final over from Mohammad Nawaz. R Ashwin kept his composure under pressure to get India over the line with just 1 needed off the last delivery.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-to-set-new-world-record-for-most-wins-in-a-calendar-year-in-international-cricket-527992">India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket</a></p>

<p>While Kohli became the leading run-getter in T20Is after his stunning 82 at the MCG on Sunday, he also surpassed India head coach Rahul Dravid on the list of highest run-getters in international cricket. Kohli overtook Dravid to claim the sixth spot on the slite list with&nbsp;24, 212 runs in 528 matches across all three formats.</p>

<p>He surpassed Dravid's tally of&nbsp;&nbsp;24,208 runs in international cricket and is now only behind the likes of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar,&nbsp;Ricky Ponting, and Kumar Sangakkara among others on the elite list.</p>

<p><strong>Top six&nbsp;run-getters in international cricket:</strong></p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar&nbsp;- 34, 257 runs<br />
Kumar Sangakkara - 28,016 runs<br />
Ricky Ponting - 27,483 runs<br />
Mahela Jayawardene - 25,957 runs<br />
Jacques Kallis - 25,534 runs<br />
Virat Kohli - 24,212 runs</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aliens-do-walk-among-us-pakistan-legend-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-after-his-memorable-knock-at-mcg-527922">'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG</a></p>

<p>Kohli extended his tally in T20Is to 3794 runs in 110 matches as he surpassed his Indian teammate Rohit Sharma to take the top spot on the list of highest run-getters in T20Is. The batting maestro rated his 82-run-knock as the best one of his career so far, keeping it above his 82 against Australia in Mohali during T20 World Cup 2016.</p>


Virat Kohli turned out to be the saviour for India as he smashed a stunning knock of unbeaten 82 to help India clinch a last-ball thriller by four wickets against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday.

Virat Kohli turned out to be the saviour for India as he smashed a stunning knock of unbeaten 82 to help India clinch a last-ball thriller by four wickets against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. It was yet another chasing masterclass from Kohli, who looked in sublime control throughout his innings. Having returned to form in the Asia Cup earlier this year after a prolonged rough patch, all eyes were on Kohli on Sunday as India found themselves in trouble early on in the 160-run chase against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). India were reeling at 31/4 inside the first seven overs with their hopes diminishing after a disastrous start. However, Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to spark a turnaround for the Men in Blue as he went on to play one of the best knocks of his career so far. Kohli scored 82 off 53 balls studded with four sixes and six fours to combine with Hardik Pandya (40) and take the game down the wire. With 48 to get off the last three overs, Kohli upped the ante in stunning fashion and took the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf to the cleaners before taking India closer to victory in the final over from Mohammad Nawaz. R Ashwin kept his composure under pressure to get India over the line with just 1 needed off the last delivery. Also Read: India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket While Kohli became the leading run-getter in T20Is after his stunning 82 at the MCG on Sunday, he also surpassed India head coach Rahul Dravid on the list of highest run-getters in international cricket. Kohli overtook Dravid to claim the sixth spot on the slite list with 24, 212 runs in 528 matches across all three formats. He surpassed Dravid's tally of 24,208 runs in international cricket and is now only behind the likes of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Kumar Sangakkara among others on the elite list. Top six run-getters in international cricket: Sachin Tendulkar - 34, 257 runs Kumar Sangakkara - 28,016 runs Ricky Ponting - 27,483 runs Mahela Jayawardene - 25,957 runs Jacques Kallis - 25,534 runs Virat Kohli - 24,212 runs Also Read: 'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG Kohli extended his tally in T20Is to 3794 runs in 110 matches as he surpassed his Indian teammate Rohit Sharma to take the top spot on the list of highest run-getters in T20Is. The batting maestro rated his 82-run-knock as the best one of his career so far, keeping it above his 82 against Australia in Mohali during T20 World Cup 2016.

Virat Kohli surpasses Rahul Dravid to become sixth-highest run getter in international cricket

<p>Rain beat South Africa, depriving them of a victory in a World Cup match one more time. Set a target of 80 in nine overs by Zimbabwe, which was revised to 64 in seven overs after a brief rain interruption in their opening T20 World Cup match, South Africa were cruising at 51 for no loss in three overs, with opener Quinton de Kock going strong at an 18-ball unbeaten 47. Rain, then, turned out to be their real opponents on the day.</p>

<p>So, three decades after they were rained out of the 1992 ODI World Cup semifinals on readmission into international cricket, South Africa were again done in by the elements, this time in a group game though. It's been 30 years since the heartbreak in Sydney against England, but the rains continue to come in the way of the Proteas.</p>

<p>All-rounder Wesley Madhevere top-scored with an 18-ball unbeaten 35 and pulled Zimbabwe to 79 for 5 after a horror start in the rain-curtailed nine-over-a-side contest.</p>

<p>South Africa were 24 for no loss when the heavens opened up first, and soon after play resumed following the brief interruption, de Kock carted Richard Ngarava for four boundaries, including three on the trot. But the match was called off after it started to rain again.</p>

<p>Earlier, having got a life on 11, Madhevere capitalised on that to prop up Zimbabwe after they were tottering at 19 for four in the fourth over. The game was shortened after rain delayed the start by more than two hours at Bellerive Oval, which was drowned in water before the groundsmen got it match-ready.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-south-africa-penalised-5-runs-during-t20-world-cup-clash-against-zimbabwe-heres-why-528006">WATCH: South Africa penalised 5 runs during T20 World Cup clash against Zimbabwe; Here's why</a></p>

<p>The powerplay was reduced to three overs per side with four bowlers allowed to bowl a maximum of two overs each.<br />
In a surprising move, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine opted to bat first despite the threat of rain looming over and the possibility of the Duckworth/Lewis method coming into the picture. The decision backfired as they lost the top four batters with hardly anything on the board.</p>

<p>Lungi Ngidi (2/20) was the wrecker-in-chief early on, having taken the wickets of Regis Chakabva (8) and Sikandar Raza for a second-ball duck. Ngidi had Chakabva caught behind right after the opener had hit the pacer for a six over deep midwicket.</p>

<p>This was after Wayne Parnell gave the Proteas their first breakthrough by removing Ervine (2). Possessing a potent four-pronged pace attack, the South Africans ran through their overs quickly, even as Zimbabwe's top order struggled to get its act right.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-to-set-new-world-record-for-most-wins-in-a-calendar-year-in-international-cricket-527992">India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket</a></p>

<p>Promoted to number three, Sean Williams was run out after a horrendous call by Wesley Madhevere, as David Miller's throw at the striker's end found the batter short by a few yards in the fourth over. Zimbabwe got two boundaries in the next over to somewhat break the shackles.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ngidi dropped Madhevere in left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj's first and only over of the game. The batter was on 11, and he made full use of the life by smashing Kagiso Rabada for 17 runs in the innings' eighth over, including hitting the pacer for a six and two fours.</p>


Rain beat South Africa, depriving them of a victory in a World Cup match one more time. Set a target of 80 in nine overs by Zimbabwe, which was revised to 64 in seven overs after a brief rain interruption in their opening T20 World Cup match, South Africa were cruising at 51 for no loss in three overs, with opener Quinton de Kock going strong at an 18-ball unbeaten 47.

Rain beat South Africa, depriving them of a victory in a World Cup match one more time. Set a target of 80 in nine overs by Zimbabwe, which was revised to 64 in seven overs after a brief rain interruption in their opening T20 World Cup match, South Africa were cruising at 51 for no loss in three overs, with opener Quinton de Kock going strong at an 18-ball unbeaten 47. Rain, then, turned out to be their real opponents on the day. So, three decades after they were rained out of the 1992 ODI World Cup semifinals on readmission into international cricket, South Africa were again done in by the elements, this time in a group game though. It's been 30 years since the heartbreak in Sydney against England, but the rains continue to come in the way of the Proteas. All-rounder Wesley Madhevere top-scored with an 18-ball unbeaten 35 and pulled Zimbabwe to 79 for 5 after a horror start in the rain-curtailed nine-over-a-side contest. South Africa were 24 for no loss when the heavens opened up first, and soon after play resumed following the brief interruption, de Kock carted Richard Ngarava for four boundaries, including three on the trot. But the match was called off after it started to rain again. Earlier, having got a life on 11, Madhevere capitalised on that to prop up Zimbabwe after they were tottering at 19 for four in the fourth over. The game was shortened after rain delayed the start by more than two hours at Bellerive Oval, which was drowned in water before the groundsmen got it match-ready. Also Read: WATCH: South Africa penalised 5 runs during T20 World Cup clash against Zimbabwe; Here's why The powerplay was reduced to three overs per side with four bowlers allowed to bowl a maximum of two overs each. In a surprising move, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine opted to bat first despite the threat of rain looming over and the possibility of the Duckworth/Lewis method coming into the picture. The decision backfired as they lost the top four batters with hardly anything on the board. Lungi Ngidi (2/20) was the wrecker-in-chief early on, having taken the wickets of Regis Chakabva (8) and Sikandar Raza for a second-ball duck. Ngidi had Chakabva caught behind right after the opener had hit the pacer for a six over deep midwicket. This was after Wayne Parnell gave the Proteas their first breakthrough by removing Ervine (2). Possessing a potent four-pronged pace attack, the South Africans ran through their overs quickly, even as Zimbabwe's top order struggled to get its act right. Also Read: India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket Promoted to number three, Sean Williams was run out after a horrendous call by Wesley Madhevere, as David Miller's throw at the striker's end found the batter short by a few yards in the fourth over. Zimbabwe got two boundaries in the next over to somewhat break the shackles. Meanwhile, Ngidi dropped Madhevere in left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj's first and only over of the game. The batter was on 11, and he made full use of the life by smashing Kagiso Rabada for 17 runs in the innings' eighth over, including hitting the pacer for a six and two fours.

Quinton de Kock's fiery knock goes in vain as rain denies South Africa victory against Zimbabwe in T20 WC

<p>South Africa's opening game at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 ended in a no result against Zimbabwe on Monday (October 24). The Proteas were robbed of a deserving victory as rain played spoilsport in the contest at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The game was reduced to a nine overs-a-side contest after a delayed start due to rain with Zimbabwe opting to bat first. South African pacers were on the money as they ran through Zimbabwe's top order before a crucial partnership between Wesley Madhevere (35) and Milton Shumba (18) helped them put 79 runs on the board.</p>

<p>In reply, South Africa got off to a fiery start as opener Quinton de Kock went berserk with the bat from the word go. He took the Zimbabwe bowlers to the cleaners en route to a quickfire 47 off 18 balls. South Africa raced to 51/0 inside just three overs riding on De Kock's blitzkrieg.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-to-set-new-world-record-for-most-wins-in-a-calendar-year-in-international-cricket-527992">India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket</a></p>

<p>However, rain halted play once again as the game eventually ended in no result with the Proteas despite the target being revised to 64 runs in 7 overs. South Africa needed just 13 runs to win with 4 overs and all ten wickets in hand. While it was a disappointing day for South African players, their misery was further intensified after a rare five-run penalty during Zimbabwe's innings following the rain-delayed start.</p>

<p>Zimbabwe were awarded five runs after an unintentional mistake by De Kock on the ground. The incident happened on the third delivery of the ninth over during Zimbabwe's innings when&nbsp;Shumba miscued a reverse scoop against Anrich Nortje and the ball went to Lungi Ngidi at fine leg.</p>

<p>Ngidi made no mistakes and threw it back towards De Kock, who had taken his right glove to be ready for a throw in case of a run-out chance. However, the ball touched De Kock's glove lying on the ground before hitting his pad.</p>

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<p>The ball then lobbed off to the glove again and was stopped. The ball was also deemed a dead delivery as the ICC rules state that if a ball strikes any protective gear - helmet or any other object placed on the ground during play, it should be declared a dead ball, and the umpire reserves the right to penalise the bowling team of five runs.</p>

<p>"If the ball while in play strikes the protective helmet (or any other object placed by the fielding team on the ground), the ball shall immediately become dead and, the umpire shall signal No ball or Wide to the scorers, if applicable, and, the umpire shall award 5 Penalty runs to the batting side," states MCC's law 28.3.2.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


South Africa's opening game at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 ended in a no result against Zimbabwe on Monday (October 24). The Proteas were robbed of a deserving victory as rain played spoilsport in the contest at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.

South Africa's opening game at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 ended in a no result against Zimbabwe on Monday (October 24). The Proteas were robbed of a deserving victory as rain played spoilsport in the contest at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart. The game was reduced to a nine overs-a-side contest after a delayed start due to rain with Zimbabwe opting to bat first. South African pacers were on the money as they ran through Zimbabwe's top order before a crucial partnership between Wesley Madhevere (35) and Milton Shumba (18) helped them put 79 runs on the board. In reply, South Africa got off to a fiery start as opener Quinton de Kock went berserk with the bat from the word go. He took the Zimbabwe bowlers to the cleaners en route to a quickfire 47 off 18 balls. South Africa raced to 51/0 inside just three overs riding on De Kock's blitzkrieg. Also Read: India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket However, rain halted play once again as the game eventually ended in no result with the Proteas despite the target being revised to 64 runs in 7 overs. South Africa needed just 13 runs to win with 4 overs and all ten wickets in hand. While it was a disappointing day for South African players, their misery was further intensified after a rare five-run penalty during Zimbabwe's innings following the rain-delayed start. Zimbabwe were awarded five runs after an unintentional mistake by De Kock on the ground. The incident happened on the third delivery of the ninth over during Zimbabwe's innings when Shumba miscued a reverse scoop against Anrich Nortje and the ball went to Lungi Ngidi at fine leg. Ngidi made no mistakes and threw it back towards De Kock, who had taken his right glove to be ready for a throw in case of a run-out chance. However, the ball touched De Kock's glove lying on the ground before hitting his pad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Also Read: Google CEO Sundar Pichai shuts down Pakistan troll with witty response after India's thrilling win in T20 WC The ball then lobbed off to the glove again and was stopped. The ball was also deemed a dead delivery as the ICC rules state that if a ball strikes any protective gear - helmet or any other object placed on the ground during play, it should be declared a dead ball, and the umpire reserves the right to penalise the bowling team of five runs. "If the ball while in play strikes the protective helmet (or any other object placed by the fielding team on the ground), the ball shall immediately become dead and, the umpire shall signal No ball or Wide to the scorers, if applicable, and, the umpire shall award 5 Penalty runs to the batting side," states MCC's law 28.3.2.

WATCH: South Africa penalised 5 runs during T20 World Cup clash against Zimbabwe; Here's why

<p>India defeated Pakistan by 4 wickets in a thriller to get off to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India rode on a fabulous knock of an unbeaten 82 from Virat Kohli to chase down the target of 160 runs on the final ball to pull off one of their most memorable victories against their arch-rivals in recent times.</p>

<p>Kohli absolutely bossed the run chase as he constructed his innings to perfection despite a slow start. His 82 off 53 balls was laced with six fours and four sixes as the batting maestro combined with Hardik Pandya (40) to help India snatch victory from the jaws of defeat at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).</p>

<p>With the win, India surpassed Australia to set a new world record for registering the most victories in international cricket across formats in a calendar year. India now have 39 wins across ODIs, Tests and T20Is in 2022 and have overtaken Australia who won 38 matches throughout the calendar year in 2003.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aliens-do-walk-among-us-pakistan-legend-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-after-his-memorable-knock-at-mcg-527922">'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG</a></p>

<p>India had kicked off the year with defeats in five straight games against South Africa in their own backyard before Rohit Sharma took charge across all three formats. India have since won series against West Indies, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, England, and South Africa. The Men in Blue also recorded three wins in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year.</p>

<p>Their first victory in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday saw them become the new record holders for the most wins in international cricket in a calendar year. India have a great chance to extend their tally further as they have at least 15 confirmed international games remaining this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-have-taken-a-bullet-for-you-but-not-have-hardik-pandya-tells-virat-kohli-after-duos-mcg-heroics-527920">'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics</a></p>

<p>India have been captained by as many as seven&nbsp;players so far this year to get to 39 wins in 57 matches across formats. While Rohit is the permanent skipper, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah have also captained the team this year.</p>

<p>After beating Pakistan in their opening game, India will now look to bag their second straight victory in the T20 World Cup when they take on Netherlands in their next game on Thursday (October 27).</p>


India defeated Pakistan by 4 wickets in a thriller to get off to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India rode on a fabulous knock of an unbeaten 82 from Virat Kohli to chase down the target of 160 runs on the final ball to pull off one of their most memorable victories against their arch-rivals in recent times.

India defeated Pakistan by 4 wickets in a thriller to get off to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). India rode on a fabulous knock of an unbeaten 82 from Virat Kohli to chase down the target of 160 runs on the final ball to pull off one of their most memorable victories against their arch-rivals in recent times. Kohli absolutely bossed the run chase as he constructed his innings to perfection despite a slow start. His 82 off 53 balls was laced with six fours and four sixes as the batting maestro combined with Hardik Pandya (40) to help India snatch victory from the jaws of defeat at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). With the win, India surpassed Australia to set a new world record for registering the most victories in international cricket across formats in a calendar year. India now have 39 wins across ODIs, Tests and T20Is in 2022 and have overtaken Australia who won 38 matches throughout the calendar year in 2003. Also Read: 'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG India had kicked off the year with defeats in five straight games against South Africa in their own backyard before Rohit Sharma took charge across all three formats. India have since won series against West Indies, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, England, and South Africa. The Men in Blue also recorded three wins in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Their first victory in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday saw them become the new record holders for the most wins in international cricket in a calendar year. India have a great chance to extend their tally further as they have at least 15 confirmed international games remaining this year. Also Read: 'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics India have been captained by as many as seven players so far this year to get to 39 wins in 57 matches across formats. While Rohit is the permanent skipper, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah have also captained the team this year. After beating Pakistan in their opening game, India will now look to bag their second straight victory in the T20 World Cup when they take on Netherlands in their next game on Thursday (October 27).

India beat Pakistan to set new world record for most wins in a calendar year in international cricket

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


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

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

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

<p>India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG.</p>

<p>India will be heading into the tournament as one of the favourites despite having underperformed in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. as they have tasted defeat twice in the last three meetings against Pakistan, including the T20 World Cup last year.</p>

<p>It is expected to be a cracker of a contest between the traditional rivals with Pakistan's quality pace attack going up against India's star-studded batting line-up. However, dark clouds hover over the game with the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne. Rain can pose a huge threat to the game with light showers expected to disrupt the play in the evening.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrap-asia-cup-dont-bring-politics-into-cricket-javed-miandad-slams-bcci-after-jay-shahs-comments-527557">Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments</a></p>

<p>As per the data from the Australian Meteorological Department, the chances of rain are high in Melbourne on Sunday. However, the game is expected not to get washed out completely. The showers might get heavier as the day progresses but the fans and players will hope for a full-fledged contest.</p>

<p>Earlier on Saturday, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had spoken about his team's preparations for the much-awaited clash. Sharma said the team was better prepared and will be looking to get off to a winning start in the tournament. He also spoke about the chances of rain playing spoilsport and insisted India are prepared having played an 8-over game against Australia at home earlier this year.</p>

<p>"I woke up and saw dark clouds over the buildings and now it is sunny. We will be coming into the match thinking it is a 40-over game. Luckily we have played a 8-over game against Australia in India," Rohit said in the pre-match presser ahead of the Pakistan game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/confident-india-hoping-to-turn-tables-on-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-clash-527624">Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash</a></p>

<p>While India are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for the entire tournament, Pakistan have been boosted by the return of their premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had terrorised the Indian top order last time the two teams met in the T20 World Cup.</p>


India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG.

India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 2022). Tickets for the game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries have thronged Melbourne from different parts of the world for the mother of all clashes at the MCG. India will be heading into the tournament as one of the favourites despite having underperformed in the Asia Cup 2022 earlier this year. Revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma & Co. as they have tasted defeat twice in the last three meetings against Pakistan, including the T20 World Cup last year. It is expected to be a cracker of a contest between the traditional rivals with Pakistan's quality pace attack going up against India's star-studded batting line-up. However, dark clouds hover over the game with the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne. Rain can pose a huge threat to the game with light showers expected to disrupt the play in the evening. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments As per the data from the Australian Meteorological Department, the chances of rain are high in Melbourne on Sunday. However, the game is expected not to get washed out completely. The showers might get heavier as the day progresses but the fans and players will hope for a full-fledged contest. Earlier on Saturday, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had spoken about his team's preparations for the much-awaited clash. Sharma said the team was better prepared and will be looking to get off to a winning start in the tournament. He also spoke about the chances of rain playing spoilsport and insisted India are prepared having played an 8-over game against Australia at home earlier this year. "I woke up and saw dark clouds over the buildings and now it is sunny. We will be coming into the match thinking it is a 40-over game. Luckily we have played a 8-over game against Australia in India," Rohit said in the pre-match presser ahead of the Pakistan game. Also Read: Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash While India are without the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for the entire tournament, Pakistan have been boosted by the return of their premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had terrorised the Indian top order last time the two teams met in the T20 World Cup.

India vs Pakistan, Melbourne weather forecast: Will rain play spoilsport in India's T20 World Cup 2022 opener?

<p>Former India opener Gautam Gambhir feels Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 against Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday was better than his match-winning innings for India against Australia in Mohali in 2016. Kohli had scored an unbeaten 82 against the Aussies in an epic run-chase in Mohali during the 2016 T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>The senior India batter, who is regarded as one of the greatest of all time had in the past labeled the Mohali masterclass as the best knock of his career. However, even he had to admit that his stunning half-century against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was an extraordinary effort and the best knock that he has produced in an Indian shirt.</p>

<p>With Inda under massive pressure in the 160-run chase, Kohli defied all odds to play one of the finest innings of his career. He scored an unbeaten 82 off 53 deliveries laces with four sixes and six fours to help the Men in Blue clinch a last-ball thriller in their T20 World Cup opener.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/google-ceo-sundar-pichai-shuts-down-pakistan-troll-with-witty-response-after-indias-thrilling-win-in-t20-wc-527932">Google CEO Sundar Pichai shuts down Pakistan troll with witty response after India's thrilling win in T20 WC</a></p>

<p>With 48 to get off the last three overs, Kohli launched an onslaught against the Pakistan bowlers and took the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf to the cleaners to get India over the line. Gambhir echoed the sentiments of many in rating Kohli's 82 against Pakistan at MCG above his Mohali knock considering the pressure and the magnitude of the game.</p>

<p>"Finishing it off, probably literally getting more than 50% of the run. So it has to be up there probably better than the Mohali innings because if you see the magnitude, the conditions, the pressure, this was much more," Gambhir said on <em>Star Sports</em>.</p>

<p>Gambhir reserved special praise for Kohli's stunning lofted backfoot shot against Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf which went straight into the stands. It is one of the most difficult shots to execute but Kohli did it to perfection despite being nder immense pressure with India needing 28 off 8 balls at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aliens-do-walk-among-us-pakistan-legend-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-after-his-memorable-knock-at-mcg-527922">'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG</a></p>

<p>He followed up it up with another six with his trademark flick shot to bring the equation further down to 16 runs needed off the last over. India won on the last ball after a dramatic finish to the final over.</p>

<p>"It was probably the shot of the tournament. That shot under pressure. It was not that he just played the shot. You knew that if he had not hit that ball out of the ground, India would have been under serious pressure because 28 off 8, you are looking at a defeat. Playing that shot under pressure against Haris Rauf. It's just the quality of that shot. You can't explain that shot," Gambhir said speaking about Kohli's six against Rauf.</p>

<p>With the first points in their bag, India will now look to continue their winning run when they lock horns with Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash on Thursday (October 27).</p>


Former India opener Gautam Gambhir feels Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 against Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday was better than his match-winning innings for India against Australia in Mohali in 2016.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir feels Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 against Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday was better than his match-winning innings for India against Australia in Mohali in 2016. Kohli had scored an unbeaten 82 against the Aussies in an epic run-chase in Mohali during the 2016 T20 World Cup. The senior India batter, who is regarded as one of the greatest of all time had in the past labeled the Mohali masterclass as the best knock of his career. However, even he had to admit that his stunning half-century against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was an extraordinary effort and the best knock that he has produced in an Indian shirt. With Inda under massive pressure in the 160-run chase, Kohli defied all odds to play one of the finest innings of his career. He scored an unbeaten 82 off 53 deliveries laces with four sixes and six fours to help the Men in Blue clinch a last-ball thriller in their T20 World Cup opener. Also Read: Google CEO Sundar Pichai shuts down Pakistan troll with witty response after India's thrilling win in T20 WC With 48 to get off the last three overs, Kohli launched an onslaught against the Pakistan bowlers and took the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf to the cleaners to get India over the line. Gambhir echoed the sentiments of many in rating Kohli's 82 against Pakistan at MCG above his Mohali knock considering the pressure and the magnitude of the game. "Finishing it off, probably literally getting more than 50% of the run. So it has to be up there probably better than the Mohali innings because if you see the magnitude, the conditions, the pressure, this was much more," Gambhir said on Star Sports. Gambhir reserved special praise for Kohli's stunning lofted backfoot shot against Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf which went straight into the stands. It is one of the most difficult shots to execute but Kohli did it to perfection despite being nder immense pressure with India needing 28 off 8 balls at the time. Also Read: 'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG He followed up it up with another six with his trademark flick shot to bring the equation further down to 16 runs needed off the last over. India won on the last ball after a dramatic finish to the final over. "It was probably the shot of the tournament. That shot under pressure. It was not that he just played the shot. You knew that if he had not hit that ball out of the ground, India would have been under serious pressure because 28 off 8, you are looking at a defeat. Playing that shot under pressure against Haris Rauf. It's just the quality of that shot. You can't explain that shot," Gambhir said speaking about Kohli's six against Rauf. With the first points in their bag, India will now look to continue their winning run when they lock horns with Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash on Thursday (October 27).

The magnitude was much more: Gambhir rates Virat Kohli's 82 vs Pakistan better than his Mohali knock

<p>Virat Kohli's masterclass, an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, propelled India to a stunning four-wicket win over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup clash at the MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). In what was both the Asian giants' Super 12 opening fixtures, the Rohit Sharma-led India restricted Pakistan to 159-8, after opting to bowl first. In reply, the one-time winners&nbsp;rode on Kohli's 82* and Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40 to take India home&nbsp;after they were reeling at 31 for 4 at one stage.</p>

<p>Kohli's knock was laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 154.72. He rotated the strike with Hardik, who was the aggressor of the two at the beginning of their 113-run fifth-wicket stand. While Hardik slowed down, the 33-year-old Kohli upped the ante with some breathtaking shots and took India home in a dramatic last-over finish in front of a jam-packed stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 WC final win over Pakistan -- lifted Kohli as the ex-captain joined him and presenter Jatin Sapru for an interview on Star Sports. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p>Post R Ashwin hitting the winning runs for India, captain Rohit Sharma and others had also stormed into the middle to laud Kohli. Even Hitman had lifted his predecessor for his unbelievable and memorable knock under pressure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-have-taken-a-bullet-for-you-but-not-have-hardik-pandya-tells-virat-kohli-after-duos-mcg-heroics-527920">'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Kohli said, "Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support."</p>


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

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

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

<p>Bangladesh won their first-ever game in a Twenty20 World Cup Super 12 Monday, with Taskin Ahmed taking 4-25 as the Netherlands imploded early and never recovered, losing by nine runs. The Dutch, who battled through the preliminary round to reach the Super 12, held the Asian nation to 144-8 with Paul van Meekeren becoming his country's joint all-time T20 wicket-taker along the way.</p>

<p>But they got off to a horror start in the run chase, losing two wickets in the opening two balls to Ahmed, then slumped to 15-4 in cold conditions at Hobart to put them on the back foot. Colin Ackermann&nbsp;with 62 off 48 balls played a lone hand, making his maiden T20 half-century as partners fell around him and the Netherlands were all out for 135 on the final ball.</p>

<p>Defeat was a heavy blow with two points desperately needed in a group that features heavyweight opponents India, Pakistan and South Africa. But it was a relief for Bangladesh, who qualified directly for the Super 12 but have suffered from poor form since the 2021 World Cup, playing 19 T20 internationals, losing 14, before meeting the Dutch.</p>

<p>After being sent into bat, Bangladesh plundered 12 off Fred Klaassen's opening over and kept the pressure on as the bowlers struggled to maintain their line. With temperatures hovering around 12 Celsius (54 Fahrenheit), the Dutch took time to warm up but when Van Meekeren switched ends he found extra pace and Soumya Sarkar (14) mistimed a pull shot to Bas De Leede.</p>

<p>Spinner Tim Pringle was brought on and ended fellow opener Najmul Shanto's innings on 25 in the next over as Bangladesh faltered.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-i-was-12-of-21-virat-kohli-thought-he-was-messing-the-game-up-during-mcg-blitz-vs-pakistan-527906">'When I was 12 of 21...' - Virat Kohli thought he was 'messing the game up' during MCG blitz vs Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>The momentum swung towards the Dutch with danger man Litton Das out for nine, slapping a Van Beek ball to Tim Cooper at mid-off, before the experienced Shakib Al Hasan fell four balls later, caught in the deep off Shariz Ahmad to leave Bangladesh at 70-4 before a brief rain interruption.</p>

<p>They returned and van Meekeren struck again, bowling Yasir Ali with a yorker to draw level on 58 wickets with Pieter Seelaar as the Netherland's top T20 wicket-taker, needing 22 fewer games to get there. Afif Hossain (38) and Nurul Hasan (13) put on 44 before De Leede removed them both in the same over as their innings drew to a close.</p>

<p>The Netherlands had the worst possible start, with Ahmed bagging two wickets in his first two balls. Vikramjit Singh edged to Yasir Ali at slip then De Leede got a nick to wicketkeeper Hasan before Ackermann successfully fended off the hat-trick ball.</p>

<p>Two needless run outs within three balls followed with Max O'Dowd (8) and Tom Cooper (0) the men left stranded. They reached 59-4 before captain Shaun Edwards was undone by the spin of Al Hasan then Pringle (1) departed to Hasan Mahmud.</p>

<p>The covers came on as the rain returned, but it was again a brief delay with Ackermann resuming the chase before he was out going for a boundary to be the ninth wicket to fall.</p>


Bangladesh won their first-ever game in a Twenty20 World Cup Super 12 Monday, with Taskin Ahmed taking 4-25 as the Netherlands imploded early and never recovered, losing by nine runs.

Bangladesh won their first-ever game in a Twenty20 World Cup Super 12 Monday, with Taskin Ahmed taking 4-25 as the Netherlands imploded early and never recovered, losing by nine runs. The Dutch, who battled through the preliminary round to reach the Super 12, held the Asian nation to 144-8 with Paul van Meekeren becoming his country's joint all-time T20 wicket-taker along the way. But they got off to a horror start in the run chase, losing two wickets in the opening two balls to Ahmed, then slumped to 15-4 in cold conditions at Hobart to put them on the back foot. Colin Ackermann with 62 off 48 balls played a lone hand, making his maiden T20 half-century as partners fell around him and the Netherlands were all out for 135 on the final ball. Defeat was a heavy blow with two points desperately needed in a group that features heavyweight opponents India, Pakistan and South Africa. But it was a relief for Bangladesh, who qualified directly for the Super 12 but have suffered from poor form since the 2021 World Cup, playing 19 T20 internationals, losing 14, before meeting the Dutch. After being sent into bat, Bangladesh plundered 12 off Fred Klaassen's opening over and kept the pressure on as the bowlers struggled to maintain their line. With temperatures hovering around 12 Celsius (54 Fahrenheit), the Dutch took time to warm up but when Van Meekeren switched ends he found extra pace and Soumya Sarkar (14) mistimed a pull shot to Bas De Leede. Spinner Tim Pringle was brought on and ended fellow opener Najmul Shanto's innings on 25 in the next over as Bangladesh faltered. ALSO READ | 'When I was 12 of 21...' - Virat Kohli thought he was 'messing the game up' during MCG blitz vs Pakistan The momentum swung towards the Dutch with danger man Litton Das out for nine, slapping a Van Beek ball to Tim Cooper at mid-off, before the experienced Shakib Al Hasan fell four balls later, caught in the deep off Shariz Ahmad to leave Bangladesh at 70-4 before a brief rain interruption. They returned and van Meekeren struck again, bowling Yasir Ali with a yorker to draw level on 58 wickets with Pieter Seelaar as the Netherland's top T20 wicket-taker, needing 22 fewer games to get there. Afif Hossain (38) and Nurul Hasan (13) put on 44 before De Leede removed them both in the same over as their innings drew to a close. The Netherlands had the worst possible start, with Ahmed bagging two wickets in his first two balls. Vikramjit Singh edged to Yasir Ali at slip then De Leede got a nick to wicketkeeper Hasan before Ackermann successfully fended off the hat-trick ball. Two needless run outs within three balls followed with Max O'Dowd (8) and Tom Cooper (0) the men left stranded. They reached 59-4 before captain Shaun Edwards was undone by the spin of Al Hasan then Pringle (1) departed to Hasan Mahmud. The covers came on as the rain returned, but it was again a brief delay with Ackermann resuming the chase before he was out going for a boundary to be the ninth wicket to fall.

T20 WC: Taskin Ahmed takes 4 for 25 as Bangladesh beat Netherlands in Super 12 contest

<p>Virat Kohli produced one of the best knocks of his career to help India beat Pakistan by 4 wickets in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Sunday (October 24). Kohli played a match-winning knock of an unbeaten 82 to help India chase down the target of 160 runs in a dramatic finish.</p>

<p>India were&nbsp;rocked early in their pursuit of the 160-run target after their excellent show with the ball as openers KL Rahul (4) and Rohit Sharma (4) were both sent back cheaply. The Men in Blue were reduced to 31/4 inside the first seven overs as Pakistan pacers dominated the proceedings.</p>

<p>However, Kohli decided to take on the onus upon himself as he combined with Hardik Pandya to pull India back into the contest. The duo added a crucial stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket and kept India in the hunt till the end. With 48 runs to get off the final three overs, Pandya struggled to play the big shots but Kohli shifted the gears seamlessly.</p>

<p>He looked in sublime control as the senior batter played some stunning shots to all parts of the ground. He smacked three fours against Shaheen Afridi before smashing two stunning sixes against Haris Rauf in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 runs required off the last over.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a></p>

<p>Kohli then slammed a six off the fourth delivery off the final over from Mohammad Nawaz which turned out to be a no-ball as luck favoured the brave. India went on to clinch the thriller on the final ball with R Ashwin showing great temperament under pressure to play the winning shot.</p>

<p>Kohli was lauded by many for his heroic knock as he was the main architect of India's victory with his unbeaten 82 off 53 balls laced with six fours and four sixes. Several former Pakistan cricketers also heaped praise on the batting maestro, including the legendary Wasim Akram, who compared him to aliens.</p>

<p>Akram called Kohli an alien among humans after being left in awe following his match-winning heroics at the MCG. "Aliens do walk among us, he's one of the best I've seen in the recent or modern greats. He has been scoring for the last 15 years, and he has the best average while chasing," said the former Pakistan cricketer.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thrill-drama-and-emotions-relive-nerve-wracking-last-over-between-india-and-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-527829">Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>Kohli himself rated his knock against Pakistan as the best he has played in his career so far. The former India skipper looked in superb control throughout his knock despite having started slowly. He had managed only 11 runs off his first 20 balls but switched gears brilliantly to end up wth 71 runs off the next 33 deliveries.</p>

<p>After getting off to a flying start in the tournament, Kohli will be hoping to continue his fine form when India lock horns with Netherlands in their next Super 12 encounter on Thursday (October 27).</p>


Virat Kohli produced one of the best knocks of his career to help India beat Pakistan by 4 wickets in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Sunday (October 24).

Virat Kohli produced one of the best knocks of his career to help India beat Pakistan by 4 wickets in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on Sunday (October 24). Kohli played a match-winning knock of an unbeaten 82 to help India chase down the target of 160 runs in a dramatic finish. India were rocked early in their pursuit of the 160-run target after their excellent show with the ball as openers KL Rahul (4) and Rohit Sharma (4) were both sent back cheaply. The Men in Blue were reduced to 31/4 inside the first seven overs as Pakistan pacers dominated the proceedings. However, Kohli decided to take on the onus upon himself as he combined with Hardik Pandya to pull India back into the contest. The duo added a crucial stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket and kept India in the hunt till the end. With 48 runs to get off the final three overs, Pandya struggled to play the big shots but Kohli shifted the gears seamlessly. He looked in sublime control as the senior batter played some stunning shots to all parts of the ground. He smacked three fours against Shaheen Afridi before smashing two stunning sixes against Haris Rauf in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 runs required off the last over. Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan Kohli then slammed a six off the fourth delivery off the final over from Mohammad Nawaz which turned out to be a no-ball as luck favoured the brave. India went on to clinch the thriller on the final ball with R Ashwin showing great temperament under pressure to play the winning shot. Kohli was lauded by many for his heroic knock as he was the main architect of India's victory with his unbeaten 82 off 53 balls laced with six fours and four sixes. Several former Pakistan cricketers also heaped praise on the batting maestro, including the legendary Wasim Akram, who compared him to aliens. Akram called Kohli an alien among humans after being left in awe following his match-winning heroics at the MCG. "Aliens do walk among us, he's one of the best I've seen in the recent or modern greats. He has been scoring for the last 15 years, and he has the best average while chasing," said the former Pakistan cricketer. Also Read: Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup Kohli himself rated his knock against Pakistan as the best he has played in his career so far. The former India skipper looked in superb control throughout his knock despite having started slowly. He had managed only 11 runs off his first 20 balls but switched gears brilliantly to end up wth 71 runs off the next 33 deliveries. After getting off to a flying start in the tournament, Kohli will be hoping to continue his fine form when India lock horns with Netherlands in their next Super 12 encounter on Thursday (October 27).

'Aliens do walk among us': Pakistan legend heaps praise on Virat Kohli after his memorable knock at MCG

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>India's star batter Virat Kohli broke into tears after guiding the team to a stunning victory against Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Kohli smashed a half-century to help India register a four-wicket win on the final ball at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the toss, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma opted to bowl first as Men In Blue restricted the arch-rivals to a 159-8 score. The chase appeared to be going badly as at one point they struggled at 45-4 off 10 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But a decisive partnership (113 runs) between Kohli and all-rounder Hardik Pandya anchored India's victory, with Ravichandran Ashwin hitting the winning run against spin-bowling all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz in the final over.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20wc-teary-eyed-hardik-pandya-gets-emotional-as-he-talks-about-late-father-watch-527807">Teary-eyed Hardik Pandya dedicates match-winning effort to late father after India beat Pak in T20 WC - Watch&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Both the players celebrated the crucial win as India started the campaign to launch their bid for the first Twenty20 World Cup crown since 2007.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Emotions were high at MCG, with Kohli breaking into tears. Cricket analyst and commentator Harsha Bhogle tweeted, "I have seen Virat for so many years. I have never seen a tear in his eyes. I saw it today. This was unforgettable."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have seen Virat Kohli for so many years. I have never seen a tear in his eyes. I saw it today. This was unforgettable<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakVsInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakVsInd</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/MOpoHq5vox">pic.twitter.com/MOpoHq5vox</a></p>
— Sajid ALi (@sajii_writes) <a href="https://twitter.com/sajii_writes/status/1584163663455219712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Have seen Virat <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> playing for so many years but have never seen a tear in his eyes !!! I saw it today !! This was unforgettable !!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianCricketTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianCricketTeam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/Oa65rUzRjN">pic.twitter.com/Oa65rUzRjN</a></p>
— Ankush Bhatia (@i_am_ankie) <a href="https://twitter.com/i_am_ankie/status/1584177752215019520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli shed a tear after his miraculous perfomance. This man knows how much it means ❤️<a href="https://t.co/vXmAK4V8iq">pic.twitter.com/vXmAK4V8iq</a></p>
— 12th Khiladi (@12th_khiladi) <a href="https://twitter.com/12th_khiladi/status/1584198125366874112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have seen Virat for so many years. I have never seen a tear in his eyes. I saw it today. This was unforgettable</p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1584154115210612738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2022-virat-kohlis-stunning-knock-helps-india-beat-pakistan-in-dramatic-last-ball-thriller-527776">Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Cricketing stalwarts, including legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, lauded Kohli's innings, terming it his "best" in his career so far. During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "It's a surreal atmosphere, I have no words, no idea how that happened. I am really lost for words. Hardik believed we can do it, if we stayed till the end."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When Shaheen bowled from the pavilion end, that's when we decided to take him down. Haris is their prime bowler, and I hit those two sixes. The calculation was simple. Nawaz had one over to bowl, so if I could take Haris down, they would panic," Kohli said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From 28 in 8, it came down to 16 to 6. I tried to stick to my instincts. The first one was back of a hand-slower ball (the one over long-on). Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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India's star batter Virat Kohli broke into tears after guiding the team to a stunning victory against Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Kohli smashed a half-century to help India register a four-wicket win on the final ball at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

India's star batter Virat Kohli broke into tears after guiding the team to a stunning victory against Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Kohli smashed a half-century to help India register a four-wicket win on the final ball at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. After winning the toss, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma opted to bowl first as Men In Blue restricted the arch-rivals to a 159-8 score. The chase appeared to be going badly as at one point they struggled at 45-4 off 10 overs. But a decisive partnership (113 runs) between Kohli and all-rounder Hardik Pandya anchored India's victory, with Ravichandran Ashwin hitting the winning run against spin-bowling all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz in the final over. ALSO READ | Teary-eyed Hardik Pandya dedicates match-winning effort to late father after India beat Pak in T20 WC - Watch Both the players celebrated the crucial win as India started the campaign to launch their bid for the first Twenty20 World Cup crown since 2007. Emotions were high at MCG, with Kohli breaking into tears. Cricket analyst and commentator Harsha Bhogle tweeted, "I have seen Virat for so many years. I have never seen a tear in his eyes. I saw it today. This was unforgettable." Watch this video: I have seen Virat Kohli for so many years. I have never seen a tear in his eyes. I saw it today. This was unforgettable#KingKohli #ViratKohli #ViratKohli𓃵 #PakVsInd #INDvPAK #INDvsPAK pic.twitter.com/MOpoHq5vox — Sajid ALi (@sajii_writes) October 23, 2022 × Have seen Virat @imVkohli playing for so many years but have never seen a tear in his eyes !!! I saw it today !! This was unforgettable !!! #INDvsPAK #IndianCricketTeam #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/Oa65rUzRjN — Ankush Bhatia (@i_am_ankie) October 23, 2022 × Virat Kohli shed a tear after his miraculous perfomance. This man knows how much it means ❤️pic.twitter.com/vXmAK4V8iq — 12th Khiladi (@12th_khiladi) October 23, 2022 × I have seen Virat for so many years. I have never seen a tear in his eyes. I saw it today. This was unforgettable — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 23, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller Cricketing stalwarts, including legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, lauded Kohli's innings, terming it his "best" in his career so far. During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "It's a surreal atmosphere, I have no words, no idea how that happened. I am really lost for words. Hardik believed we can do it, if we stayed till the end." "When Shaheen bowled from the pavilion end, that's when we decided to take him down. Haris is their prime bowler, and I hit those two sixes. The calculation was simple. Nawaz had one over to bowl, so if I could take Haris down, they would panic," Kohli said. "From 28 in 8, it came down to 16 to 6. I tried to stick to my instincts. The first one was back of a hand-slower ball (the one over long-on). Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be. Till today Mohali was my best innings against Australia. Today I will count this one higher. Hardik kept pushing me. The crowd has been phenomenal. You guys (fans) kept backing me and I am grateful for your support," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

T20 WC: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch

<p>'I don't know if God is a sports fan or not, but I do know this: He loves a good comeback'. Lane Kiffin.</p>

<p>The heavens too would have loved the magic Virat Kohli weaved with his willow against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. As the ball flew towards the rope off R. Ashwin's bat, Kohli jumped &amp; pumped in the air, it was an unreal moment. Cometh the hour cometh the man, the King has done it again. He has regained his fiefdom.</p>

<p>While Kohli has engineered many memorable victories for his team in the past, this win&nbsp;was a&nbsp;special one. During the presentation ceremony, Kohli called his innings against Pakistan at the T20 World cup game on Sunday his 'best T20 knock ever'. With an emphatic display of explosive firepower, Kohli single-handedly snatched the victory from the jaws of defeat.</p>

<p>But the journey has been arduous. The prolific batsman who has conquered all three realms of the game had a horrifying time over the last three years. While cricket pundits kept analysing his failures to look for a chink in his armour, they found none.</p>

<p>There was nothing wrong in his technique, no pattern in his dismissals. But the king had lost his Midas touch. The ace Indian cricketer had also shared early this year that the run drought affected his mental health. All through the Indian batting talisman kept his cool &amp; continued to marshal on and then came the moment, he scored a century against Afghanistan this year in the Asia Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-the-king-twitter-hails-virat-kohli-after-his-chasing-masterclass-against-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-527789">'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>With the monkey off his back, Kohli was well poised to return to his favourite hunting ground i.e. Australia for the T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>With an unbeaten 82 of 53 balls, Kohli emerged victorious in front of more than 90,000 spectators at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He&nbsp;made&nbsp;a nation of a billion-plus people erupt with joy with his heroics. Fireworks lit up the skies around India celebrating Kohli's epic knock in a riveting contest.</p>

<p>He too had a tear in his eyes, tears of joy, for the first time in his cricketing tear. This victory was&nbsp;truly surreal. Nerve-wracking would be an understatement.</p>

<p>The pressure on Kohli would have been bigger than one would experience at the bottom of Mariana Trench. The steep run chase &amp; the fiery bowling by Pakistan's bowlers continued to make things worse for India.</p>

<p>India needed 48 runs from the last three overs. Kohli remained focused, hitting lusty blows &amp; running like a gazelle between the wickets converting ones into twos and twos into three. In the 18th over the modern-day master launched a fierce counter-attack.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a></p>

<p>He smashed the dangerous Shaheen Afridi for three fours. The best was yet to come, Haris Rauf saw two of his deliveries sail into the stands. Remember this is MCG, which boasts of massive boundaries, but again he is the King.</p>

<p>India still needed 16 runs in the final over. Hardik Pandya miscued the first ball and there ended the 113-run stand. Next came Dinesh Karthik but he too could not trouble the scorers much. Kohli still believed in his pyrotechnics and hit Mohammad Nawaz for a massive six.</p>

<p>Nawaz who has had a brilliant six months turned out to be the villain for Pakistan. He conceded a wide &amp; a no-ball in the last over, only to help Kohli's cause as India eventually got over the line to earn a thrilling four-wicket win.</p>

<p>India-Pakistan matches have always enthralled sporting fans around the world and the two sides&nbsp;didn't disappoint. Pakistan played brilliantly, they kept pushing India but ultimately it was the pressure that they could not manage in the last over.</p>


'I don't know if God is a sports fan or not, but I do know this: He loves a good comeback'. Lane Kiffin. The heavens too would have loved the magic Virat Kohli weaved with his willow against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday.

'I don't know if God is a sports fan or not, but I do know this: He loves a good comeback'. Lane Kiffin. The heavens too would have loved the magic Virat Kohli weaved with his willow against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. As the ball flew towards the rope off R. Ashwin's bat, Kohli jumped & pumped in the air, it was an unreal moment. Cometh the hour cometh the man, the King has done it again. He has regained his fiefdom. While Kohli has engineered many memorable victories for his team in the past, this win was a special one. During the presentation ceremony, Kohli called his innings against Pakistan at the T20 World cup game on Sunday his 'best T20 knock ever'. With an emphatic display of explosive firepower, Kohli single-handedly snatched the victory from the jaws of defeat. But the journey has been arduous. The prolific batsman who has conquered all three realms of the game had a horrifying time over the last three years. While cricket pundits kept analysing his failures to look for a chink in his armour, they found none. There was nothing wrong in his technique, no pattern in his dismissals. But the king had lost his Midas touch. The ace Indian cricketer had also shared early this year that the run drought affected his mental health. All through the Indian batting talisman kept his cool & continued to marshal on and then came the moment, he scored a century against Afghanistan this year in the Asia Cup. Also Read: 'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup With the monkey off his back, Kohli was well poised to return to his favourite hunting ground i.e. Australia for the T20 World Cup. With an unbeaten 82 of 53 balls, Kohli emerged victorious in front of more than 90,000 spectators at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He made a nation of a billion-plus people erupt with joy with his heroics. Fireworks lit up the skies around India celebrating Kohli's epic knock in a riveting contest. He too had a tear in his eyes, tears of joy, for the first time in his cricketing tear. This victory was truly surreal. Nerve-wracking would be an understatement. The pressure on Kohli would have been bigger than one would experience at the bottom of Mariana Trench. The steep run chase & the fiery bowling by Pakistan's bowlers continued to make things worse for India. India needed 48 runs from the last three overs. Kohli remained focused, hitting lusty blows & running like a gazelle between the wickets converting ones into twos and twos into three. In the 18th over the modern-day master launched a fierce counter-attack. Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan He smashed the dangerous Shaheen Afridi for three fours. The best was yet to come, Haris Rauf saw two of his deliveries sail into the stands. Remember this is MCG, which boasts of massive boundaries, but again he is the King. India still needed 16 runs in the final over. Hardik Pandya miscued the first ball and there ended the 113-run stand. Next came Dinesh Karthik but he too could not trouble the scorers much. Kohli still believed in his pyrotechnics and hit Mohammad Nawaz for a massive six. Nawaz who has had a brilliant six months turned out to be the villain for Pakistan. He conceded a wide & a no-ball in the last over, only to help Kohli's cause as India eventually got over the line to earn a thrilling four-wicket win. India-Pakistan matches have always enthralled sporting fans around the world and the two sides didn't disappoint. Pakistan played brilliantly, they kept pushing India but ultimately it was the pressure that they could not manage in the last over.

Chase master Virat Kohli completes redemption arc with epic knock against Pakistan in T20 World Cup

<p>While Virat Kohli grabbed the limelight with his stunning knock, Hardik Pandya silently played a crucial role in India's four-wicket victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. India got off to a winning start in the tournament after clinching an epic last-ball thriller at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).</p>

<p>Kohli was the hero for India with his brilliant knock of an unbeaten 82 which helped India snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. But the senior batter wouldn't have been able to pull off the miraculous win without Hardik's support. The star all-rounder was among the architects of India's win as the Rohit Sharma-led side got off to a flying start in the T20 World Cup 2022.</p>

<p>Hardik picked up three wickets with the ball to help India restrict Pakistan to 160 in the high-profile game before scoring &nbsp;40 off 37 balls during India's run chase to help the Men in Blue secure one of their best wins against Pakistan in recent times. His match-winning effort also saw Hardik become the first Indian player to achieve a stunning feat in T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a></p>

<p>Hardik has now become the first Indian player to pick up 50 wickets and score 1,000 runs in T20Is. He has 1029 runs and 57 wickets to his name n 74 T20I matches for India so far in his career. He is the first Indian and the seventh player overall to achieve the elusive feat in the shortest format.</p>

<p>Hardik has been brilliant for India ever since making his comeback after a long spell on the sidelines due to an injuy earlier this year. There were once doubts over his spot in the T20I team but Hardik's sensational return in the IPL 2022 paved the way for his comeback in the Indian team and he has not looked back ever since.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20wc-teary-eyed-hardik-pandya-gets-emotional-as-he-talks-about-late-father-watch-527807">Teary-eyed Hardik Pandya dedicates match-winning effort to late father after India beat Pak in T20 WC - Watch</a></p>

<p>One of the finest all-rounders in the world at present, Hardik once again showcased his importance in the Indian squad on Sunday with a match-winning effort. His all-round heroics went a bit undermined as Kohli stole the thunder with his stelar knock but the all-rounder's contributions were equally important for the Indian team.</p>

<p>After beating Pakistan in their opener, India will now look to make it two wins in a row when they take on Netherlands in their next game on Thursday (October 27).</p>


While Virat Kohli grabbed the limelight with his stunning knock, Hardik Pandya silently played a crucial role in India's four-wicket victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday.

While Virat Kohli grabbed the limelight with his stunning knock, Hardik Pandya silently played a crucial role in India's four-wicket victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday. India got off to a winning start in the tournament after clinching an epic last-ball thriller at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Kohli was the hero for India with his brilliant knock of an unbeaten 82 which helped India snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. But the senior batter wouldn't have been able to pull off the miraculous win without Hardik's support. The star all-rounder was among the architects of India's win as the Rohit Sharma-led side got off to a flying start in the T20 World Cup 2022. Hardik picked up three wickets with the ball to help India restrict Pakistan to 160 in the high-profile game before scoring 40 off 37 balls during India's run chase to help the Men in Blue secure one of their best wins against Pakistan in recent times. His match-winning effort also saw Hardik become the first Indian player to achieve a stunning feat in T20Is. Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan Hardik has now become the first Indian player to pick up 50 wickets and score 1,000 runs in T20Is. He has 1029 runs and 57 wickets to his name n 74 T20I matches for India so far in his career. He is the first Indian and the seventh player overall to achieve the elusive feat in the shortest format. Hardik has been brilliant for India ever since making his comeback after a long spell on the sidelines due to an injuy earlier this year. There were once doubts over his spot in the T20I team but Hardik's sensational return in the IPL 2022 paved the way for his comeback in the Indian team and he has not looked back ever since. Also Read: Teary-eyed Hardik Pandya dedicates match-winning effort to late father after India beat Pak in T20 WC - Watch One of the finest all-rounders in the world at present, Hardik once again showcased his importance in the Indian squad on Sunday with a match-winning effort. His all-round heroics went a bit undermined as Kohli stole the thunder with his stelar knock but the all-rounder's contributions were equally important for the Indian team. After beating Pakistan in their opener, India will now look to make it two wins in a row when they take on Netherlands in their next game on Thursday (October 27).

Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian to achieve massive feat after match-winning heroics against Pakistan

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


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

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

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

<p>The chase master was on top of his game as Virat Kohli pulled off one of the most memorable victories for India against their arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). Kohli looked in sublime touch as he delivered another chasing masterclass to snatch a famous victory from Pakistan's jaws in India's opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.</p>

<p>In pursuit of a challenging target of 161 runs, India were in a spot of bother after losing opener KL Rahul cheaply on 4 off 8 balls when Kohli arrived in the middle. India were soon left reeling on 26/3 after losing both Rohit Sharma (4) and Suryakumar Yadav (15) in quick succession as Kohli took his time in settling down at the other end.</p>

<p>Axar Patel too soon followed suit as India were reduced to 31/4 and appeared in deep trouble before Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship. The duo put on a brilliant stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket but Pandya struggled to play the big shots leaving Kohli with an uphill task.</p>

<p>However, the chase master as he is known for his several match-winning performances in run-chases in the past, was up for the challenge. Kohli shifted gears seamlessly in the death overs and played some sensational strokes all around the park to keep India in the game till the very last ball.</p>

<p>With 16 runs required off the final over, India lost Hardik on the very first delivery and managed only three runs off the next two balls. Kohli then played a stunning shot to slam a six off Mohammad Nawaz to bring the equation in India's favour. However, luck favoured the brave as the fourth delivery from Nawaz was deemed a no-ball.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2022-virat-kohlis-stunning-knock-helps-india-beat-pakistan-in-dramatic-last-ball-thriller-527776">Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller</a></p>

<p>Kohli was bowled on the ree-hit delivery but ran three in byes as the equation came down to two needed off two. There was another twist in the tale as Pakistan managed to get rid of Dinesh Karthik on the penultimate ball before R Ashwin sealed the victory for India with a single off the final ball.</p>

<p>Kohli finished with 82 off 53 balls laced with four sixes and six fours, labelling the knock his greatest ever in T20IS for Team India. It was yet another chasing masterclass from one of the greatest ever to have graced the game. The Indian superstar was hailed by many on Twitter as they bowed down to the 'King' after his heroics under pressure.</p>

<p><strong>Twitter bows down to&nbsp;Virat Kohli after stunning 82 against Pakistan:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The King. This was his best. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kohli</a></p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1584153450463784961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli you are the king</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1584151757948846080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When the kingdom falls, the king rises… Take a bow King Kohli. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsPak</a> <a href="https://t.co/aDdOJwoZnU">pic.twitter.com/aDdOJwoZnU</a></p>
— Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) <a href="https://twitter.com/MishiAmit/status/1584151797953765379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yaayyyy…Happyyy Deepawali<br />
What an amazing game.High on emotions, but this is<br />
probably the most brilliant T20 Innings i have ever seen, take a bow Virat Kohli . Chak De India <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsPak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsPak</a> <a href="https://t.co/3TwVbYscpa">pic.twitter.com/3TwVbYscpa</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1584152083284254720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The KING is back<br />
<br />
Take a bow, Virat Kohli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/OdAnbmso0h">pic.twitter.com/OdAnbmso0h</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1584154001532239875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, it was undoubtedly the best innings of your life. It was a treat to watch you play, the six off the back foot in the 19th over against Rauf over long on was spectacular!<br />
Keep it going. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/FakWPrStMg">pic.twitter.com/FakWPrStMg</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1584159256567128064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They call him King Kohli for a reason.<br />
What a win, Team India! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/qWVgLKLROp">pic.twitter.com/qWVgLKLROp</a></p>
— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1/status/1584157975669018630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli was not at his usual best right from the word go and took his time in settling down but once he got a hang of the conditions and the pitch, there was no stopping the chase master. He had scored only 11 runs off the first 20 balls he faced but ended up getting 71 off the next 33 to pull India through in the last-ball humdinger.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-it-was-meant-to-be-virat-kohli-after-india-pull-off-a-memorable-victory-over-pakistan-527780">'It was meant to be,' Virat Kohli after India pull off a memorable victory over Pakistan</a></p>

<p>The high-profile clash was always expected to be a thrilling affair but the incredibly dramatic finish comfortably places the game&nbsp;among the best matches between the arch-rivals. India and Kohli will now look to continue their phenomenal run in their next game against Netherlands on Thursday (October 27).</p>


The chase master was on top of his game as Virat Kohli pulled off one of the most memorable victories for India against their arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23).

The chase master was on top of his game as Virat Kohli pulled off one of the most memorable victories for India against their arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday (October 23). Kohli looked in sublime touch as he delivered another chasing masterclass to snatch a famous victory from Pakistan's jaws in India's opener at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. In pursuit of a challenging target of 161 runs, India were in a spot of bother after losing opener KL Rahul cheaply on 4 off 8 balls when Kohli arrived in the middle. India were soon left reeling on 26/3 after losing both Rohit Sharma (4) and Suryakumar Yadav (15) in quick succession as Kohli took his time in settling down at the other end. Axar Patel too soon followed suit as India were reduced to 31/4 and appeared in deep trouble before Kohli combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship. The duo put on a brilliant stand of 113 runs for the fifth wicket but Pandya struggled to play the big shots leaving Kohli with an uphill task. However, the chase master as he is known for his several match-winning performances in run-chases in the past, was up for the challenge. Kohli shifted gears seamlessly in the death overs and played some sensational strokes all around the park to keep India in the game till the very last ball. With 16 runs required off the final over, India lost Hardik on the very first delivery and managed only three runs off the next two balls. Kohli then played a stunning shot to slam a six off Mohammad Nawaz to bring the equation in India's favour. However, luck favoured the brave as the fourth delivery from Nawaz was deemed a no-ball. Also Read: Virat Kohli's stunning knock helps India beat Pakistan in dramatic last-ball thriller Kohli was bowled on the ree-hit delivery but ran three in byes as the equation came down to two needed off two. There was another twist in the tale as Pakistan managed to get rid of Dinesh Karthik on the penultimate ball before R Ashwin sealed the victory for India with a single off the final ball. Kohli finished with 82 off 53 balls laced with four sixes and six fours, labelling the knock his greatest ever in T20IS for Team India. It was yet another chasing masterclass from one of the greatest ever to have graced the game. The Indian superstar was hailed by many on Twitter as they bowed down to the 'King' after his heroics under pressure. Twitter bows down to Virat Kohli after stunning 82 against Pakistan: The King. This was his best. #Kohli — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 23, 2022 × Virat Kohli you are the king — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 23, 2022 × When the kingdom falls, the king rises… Take a bow King Kohli. #IndvsPak pic.twitter.com/aDdOJwoZnU — Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) October 23, 2022 × Yaayyyy…Happyyy Deepawali What an amazing game.High on emotions, but this is probably the most brilliant T20 Innings i have ever seen, take a bow Virat Kohli . Chak De India #IndvsPak pic.twitter.com/3TwVbYscpa — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 23, 2022 × The KING is back Take a bow, Virat Kohli #T20WorldCup | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/OdAnbmso0h — ICC (@ICC) October 23, 2022 × .@imVkohli, it was undoubtedly the best innings of your life. It was a treat to watch you play, the six off the back foot in the 19th over against Rauf over long on was spectacular! Keep it going. #INDvPAK #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/FakWPrStMg — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 23, 2022 × They call him King Kohli for a reason. What a win, Team India! #INDvsPAK2022 pic.twitter.com/qWVgLKLROp — Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) October 23, 2022 × Kohli was not at his usual best right from the word go and took his time in settling down but once he got a hang of the conditions and the pitch, there was no stopping the chase master. He had scored only 11 runs off the first 20 balls he faced but ended up getting 71 off the next 33 to pull India through in the last-ball humdinger. Also Read: 'It was meant to be,' Virat Kohli after India pull off a memorable victory over Pakistan The high-profile clash was always expected to be a thrilling affair but the incredibly dramatic finish comfortably places the game among the best matches between the arch-rivals. India and Kohli will now look to continue their phenomenal run in their next game against Netherlands on Thursday (October 27).

'You are the king': Twitter hails Virat Kohli after his chasing masterclass against Pakistan in T20 World Cup

<p>He was mocked, taunted, and trolled brutally after being made a villain overnight for dropping a sitter against Pakistan in the Asia Cup a few days back. The critics came down hard on&nbsp;young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh as they vented their frustration on the 23-year-old in the wake of India's five-wicket defeat in the Super Four clash.</p>

<p>Arshdeep dropped Pakistan batter Asif Ali when the opponents required 34 to win off the last couple of overs against India in the crucial Super 4 game. Ali went on to make the most of the&nbsp;reprieve and ended up taking his side home in what turned out to be a thrilling last-over finish.</p>

<p>Arshdeep, who was playing his second game against Pakistan, was on the receiving end of vicious abuse and trolling. His Wikipedia page was compromised with fake Khalistani links and the young pacer had to face taunts from fans both on social media and off it.</p>

<p>But cricket is a great leveller and it presented Arshdeep with an opportunity to redeem himself as he made his T20 World Cup debut in the high-profile clash against Pakistan on Sunday. The left-arm pacer was given the ball by captain Rohit Sharma for the second over of Pakistan's innings and all he needed was just one delivery to bury&nbsp;the horrors of the past.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-can-survive-without-pakistan-harbhajan-singh-pakistani-anchor-involved-in-heated-debate-527741">&nbsp;Indian cricket can survive without Pakistan: Harbhajan Singh, Pakistani anchor involved in heated debate</a></p>

<p>Only a few manage to grab the opportunity for redemption like Arshdeep did on Sunday as he ran riot against Pakistan's top order to get India off to a flyer with the ball. He got the prized wicket of Pakistan captain Babar Azam on the very first delivery he bowled in the game and followed it up with another important dismissal of Mohammad Rizwan in his next over.</p>

<p>Making the most of the movement on offer at the MCG, Arshdeep bowled a beautiful inswinger to trap Babar plumb in front of the wicket and sent him packing on a duck before returning to get the better of Rizwan in his second over in the game.</p>

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<p>Rizwan, who was trying to settle down and steady the ship for Pakistan after Babar's departure,&nbsp;struggled&nbsp;against Arshdeep and had a close escape on the previous delivery when Kohli nearly pulled off a blinder to send him back. However, his stay in the middle was cut short on the next ball as the left-arm pacer outsmarted him with a short ball and got him caught at fine leg on just 4 off 12.</p>

<p>Arshdeep's double whammy rocked Pakistan early on in the high-pressure contest as the left-arm pacer enjoyed a perfect redemption, days after being slaughtered for his dropped catch against the same opposition in the Asia Cup last month.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-controls-emotions-during-national-anthem-ahead-of-indo-pak-t20-wc-clash-527731">WATCH - Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash</a></p>

<p>In what seemed poetic justice, Arshdeep also managed to get the wicket of Asif Ali, whose dropped catch in India's last meeting against Pakistan led to brutal trolling for him on social media. The young fast bowler bounced out Asif and got him caught behind the stumps to send him back on 2 off 3 balls.</p>

<p>It was not an ideal end to a memorable World Cup debut spell as Arshdeep ended up giving away 14 runs in his final over but he did enough to shut the mouths of his critics and prove why he deserves his spot in this Indian team.</p>

<p>Arshdeep finished with excellent figures of 3/32 off his 4 overs to complete his redemption arc and give India a healthy chance of exacting revenge for their Asia Cup defeat against Pakistan.</p>


He was mocked, taunted, and trolled brutally after being made a villain overnight for dropping a sitter against Pakistan in the Asia Cup a few days back. The critics came down hard on young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh as they vented their frustration on the 23-year-old in the wake of India's five-wicket defeat in the Super Four clash.

He was mocked, taunted, and trolled brutally after being made a villain overnight for dropping a sitter against Pakistan in the Asia Cup a few days back. The critics came down hard on young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh as they vented their frustration on the 23-year-old in the wake of India's five-wicket defeat in the Super Four clash. Arshdeep dropped Pakistan batter Asif Ali when the opponents required 34 to win off the last couple of overs against India in the crucial Super 4 game. Ali went on to make the most of the reprieve and ended up taking his side home in what turned out to be a thrilling last-over finish. Arshdeep, who was playing his second game against Pakistan, was on the receiving end of vicious abuse and trolling. His Wikipedia page was compromised with fake Khalistani links and the young pacer had to face taunts from fans both on social media and off it. But cricket is a great leveller and it presented Arshdeep with an opportunity to redeem himself as he made his T20 World Cup debut in the high-profile clash against Pakistan on Sunday. The left-arm pacer was given the ball by captain Rohit Sharma for the second over of Pakistan's innings and all he needed was just one delivery to bury the horrors of the past. Also Read: Indian cricket can survive without Pakistan: Harbhajan Singh, Pakistani anchor involved in heated debate Only a few manage to grab the opportunity for redemption like Arshdeep did on Sunday as he ran riot against Pakistan's top order to get India off to a flyer with the ball. He got the prized wicket of Pakistan captain Babar Azam on the very first delivery he bowled in the game and followed it up with another important dismissal of Mohammad Rizwan in his next over. Making the most of the movement on offer at the MCG, Arshdeep bowled a beautiful inswinger to trap Babar plumb in front of the wicket and sent him packing on a duck before returning to get the better of Rizwan in his second over in the game. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Rizwan, who was trying to settle down and steady the ship for Pakistan after Babar's departure, struggled against Arshdeep and had a close escape on the previous delivery when Kohli nearly pulled off a blinder to send him back. However, his stay in the middle was cut short on the next ball as the left-arm pacer outsmarted him with a short ball and got him caught at fine leg on just 4 off 12. Arshdeep's double whammy rocked Pakistan early on in the high-pressure contest as the left-arm pacer enjoyed a perfect redemption, days after being slaughtered for his dropped catch against the same opposition in the Asia Cup last month. Also Read: WATCH - Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash In what seemed poetic justice, Arshdeep also managed to get the wicket of Asif Ali, whose dropped catch in India's last meeting against Pakistan led to brutal trolling for him on social media. The young fast bowler bounced out Asif and got him caught behind the stumps to send him back on 2 off 3 balls. It was not an ideal end to a memorable World Cup debut spell as Arshdeep ended up giving away 14 runs in his final over but he did enough to shut the mouths of his critics and prove why he deserves his spot in this Indian team. Arshdeep finished with excellent figures of 3/32 off his 4 overs to complete his redemption arc and give India a healthy chance of exacting revenge for their Asia Cup defeat against Pakistan.

Days after being slaughtered for a dropped catch, Arshdeep Singh turns out to be India's hero against Pakistan

<p>Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal&nbsp;for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup.</p>

<p>The hype surrounding the marquee clash between the two arch-rivals is immense as they lock horns for only the third time this year. India and Pakistan met twice in the Asia Cup earlier this year where both teams managed to win a game each. India have lost twice in their last three meetings against their eternal rivals and revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. on Sunday.</p>

<p>Ahead of the marquee clash, Gambhir said India should treat the game as a stepping stone towards realising their ultimate dream of returning home as the new T20 World Cup winners. "Beating Pakistan is not the goal, it is just a step towards winning the cup," said Gambhir while speaking on Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-should-put-this-topic-to-rest-says-hardik-pandya-ahead-of-the-india-pak-clash-527719">'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of the India-Pak clash</a></p>

<p>Thousands of fans from around the world packed the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground ahead of the mother of all clashes between the two cricketing giants on Sunday. Tickets for the high-profile game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries would be hoping for a full game amid rain threat.</p>

<p>While Gambhir urged India to treat the clash against Pakistan as just another game to ensure they can continue focusing on the ultimate prize, he said the game will not be a one-sided affair as Babar Azam &amp; Co. have a quality pace attack which can wreck havoc on its day.</p>

<p>"I am not going to say it’s a one-sided game because Pakistan is a very strong bowling line-up. They probably have the best bowling line-up in this competition when it comes to seamers. They have got three quality pacers who can bowl 140-plus," said Gambhir.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-rohit-sharma-to-surpass-ms-dhoni-to-achieve-elite-record-during-india-pakistan-clash-527708">Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash</a></p>

<p>Pakistan's 10-wicket win against India in the&nbsp;meeting between the two teams at the T20 World Cup last year was the first time the Men in Green managed to get the better of their arch-rivals in a World Cup game. India lead 4-1 when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the T20 World Cup.</p>


Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup.

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir feels the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 should be seen as just another game. The ex-opener, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team under former skipper MS Dhoni, said winning against Pakistan is not the final goal for the Indian team but just a step towards winning the World Cup. The hype surrounding the marquee clash between the two arch-rivals is immense as they lock horns for only the third time this year. India and Pakistan met twice in the Asia Cup earlier this year where both teams managed to win a game each. India have lost twice in their last three meetings against their eternal rivals and revenge will be on the minds of Rohit Sharma & Co. on Sunday. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gambhir said India should treat the game as a stepping stone towards realising their ultimate dream of returning home as the new T20 World Cup winners. "Beating Pakistan is not the goal, it is just a step towards winning the cup," said Gambhir while speaking on Star Sports. Also Read: 'We should put this topic to rest,' says Hardik Pandya ahead of the India-Pak clash Thousands of fans from around the world packed the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground ahead of the mother of all clashes between the two cricketing giants on Sunday. Tickets for the high-profile game were sold out within minutes of being made available and supporters of both countries would be hoping for a full game amid rain threat. While Gambhir urged India to treat the clash against Pakistan as just another game to ensure they can continue focusing on the ultimate prize, he said the game will not be a one-sided affair as Babar Azam & Co. have a quality pace attack which can wreck havoc on its day. "I am not going to say it’s a one-sided game because Pakistan is a very strong bowling line-up. They probably have the best bowling line-up in this competition when it comes to seamers. They have got three quality pacers who can bowl 140-plus," said Gambhir. Also Read: Rohit Sharma to surpass MS Dhoni to achieve elite record during India-Pakistan clash Pakistan's 10-wicket win against India in the meeting between the two teams at the T20 World Cup last year was the first time the Men in Green managed to get the better of their arch-rivals in a World Cup game. India lead 4-1 when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the T20 World Cup.

Beating Pakistan not the goal, it's just a step for winning cup: Gautam Gambhir on marquee clash

<p>Kusal Mendis scored another half-century as Sri Lanka trounced Ireland by nine wickets in the T20 World Cup at Hobart on Sunday to build confidence ahead of a potentially pivotal Super 12 clash against champions Australia.</p>

<p>Opener Mendis, who blasted 79 in a qualifying win over the Netherlands last week, fired Sri Lanka to victory with an unbeaten 68 as his team crossed Ireland's 128 for eight with 30 balls to spare in the clash of qualifiers at Bellerive Oval. Since a shock first-up loss to Namibia during qualifying, the 2014 champions Sri Lanka have now won three matches in succession.</p>

<p>They loom as a dangerous match-up for Australia in Perth on Tuesday with the hosts reeling from their heavy opening loss to New Zealand in Sydney on Saturday. Ireland won the toss and chose to bat but were restricted by Sri Lanka's parsimonious bowling from the halfway mark despite 45 from number four Harry Tector.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-india-vs-pakistan-live-cricket-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-epic-face-off-527678"><strong>T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off?</strong></a></p>

<p>Man-of-the-match Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva (31) ensured there would be no slip-ups for the south Asians as they built a quickfire opening stand of 63 before De Silva was caught behind off the bowling of Gareth Delany.</p>

<p>Charith Asalanka kept up the pace with an unbeaten 31, with Mendis fittingly sealing the win by slogging spinner Simi Singh for six over square leg.</p>


Kusal Mendis scored another half-century as Sri Lanka trounced Ireland by nine wickets in the T20 World Cup at Hobart on Sunday to build confidence ahead of a potentially pivotal Super 12 clash against champions Australia.

Kusal Mendis scored another half-century as Sri Lanka trounced Ireland by nine wickets in the T20 World Cup at Hobart on Sunday to build confidence ahead of a potentially pivotal Super 12 clash against champions Australia. Opener Mendis, who blasted 79 in a qualifying win over the Netherlands last week, fired Sri Lanka to victory with an unbeaten 68 as his team crossed Ireland's 128 for eight with 30 balls to spare in the clash of qualifiers at Bellerive Oval. Since a shock first-up loss to Namibia during qualifying, the 2014 champions Sri Lanka have now won three matches in succession. They loom as a dangerous match-up for Australia in Perth on Tuesday with the hosts reeling from their heavy opening loss to New Zealand in Sydney on Saturday. Ireland won the toss and chose to bat but were restricted by Sri Lanka's parsimonious bowling from the halfway mark despite 45 from number four Harry Tector. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off? Man-of-the-match Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva (31) ensured there would be no slip-ups for the south Asians as they built a quickfire opening stand of 63 before De Silva was caught behind off the bowling of Gareth Delany. Charith Asalanka kept up the pace with an unbeaten 31, with Mendis fittingly sealing the win by slogging spinner Simi Singh for six over square leg.

Men's T20 World Cup: Kusal Mendis' 68 not out takes Sri Lanka to 9-wicket win over Ireland

<p>Former India captain Kapil Dev recently explained why Mohammed Shami is not a better fast bowler than Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi despite his last-over heroics against Australia in India's warm-up game ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 campaign.</p>

<p>Making his comeback after a long spell on the sidelines, Shami bowled a fantastic last over against Australia to defend 11 runs off it India's practice game against the hosts earlier this week. Shami went on to pick three wickets in the over as Australia were bundled out for 180 in the 187-run chase.</p>

<p>It was Shami's first over for India in Australia after he joined the team post his recovery from COVID-19 and the senior pacer managed to impress all with his heroics. However, Kapil believes Shami can't be compared with someone like Afridi on the basis of one over that he bowled against Australia in the warm-up game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-not-the-destination-it-is-just-a-step-towards-it-for-india-gautam-gambhir-ahead-of-marquee-clash-527721">Pakistan not the destination, it is just a step towards it for India: Gautam Gambhir on marquee clash</a></p>

<p>"You can’t judge anything by just one over,"&nbsp;Kapil said during a debate in a joint broadcast of Samaa TV and ABP News.</p>

<p>"I wouldn’t even like to compare (Shami and Shaheen). Shami hasn’t played a lot of cricket of late. I would have perhaps compared Bumrah with Shaheen if he was there, but I can’t compare Shami and Afridi because there is a lot of difference.</p>

<p>Looking at the performances of the last two years, Shaheen has been very good. Whenever he has got an opportunity, he has made an impact,"&nbsp;Kapil explained.</p>

<p>While Afridi has been Pakistan's pace spearhead in T20Is and has been exceptional with the new ball, Shami was not in the scheme of things for India a few months ago as far as T20Is were concerned. The senior pacer last played a T20I game for India during the T20 World Cup last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-controls-emotions-during-national-anthem-ahead-of-indo-pak-t20-wc-clash-527731">WATCH: Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash</a></p>

<p>However, an injury to Jasprit Bumrah just days ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022, paved way for Shami's comeback in India's T20I squad. He was roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20 World Cup squad and will be hoping to justify his selection with good performances in the tournament.</p>

<p>India are currently locking horns with Pakistan in their T20 World Cup opener at the Melbourne Cricket Ground where both Shami and Afridi are in action for their respective teams.</p>


Former India captain Kapil Dev recently explained why Mohammed Shami is not a better fast bowler than Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi despite his last-over heroics against Australia in India's warm-up game ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 campaign.

Former India captain Kapil Dev recently explained why Mohammed Shami is not a better fast bowler than Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi despite his last-over heroics against Australia in India's warm-up game ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 campaign. Making his comeback after a long spell on the sidelines, Shami bowled a fantastic last over against Australia to defend 11 runs off it India's practice game against the hosts earlier this week. Shami went on to pick three wickets in the over as Australia were bundled out for 180 in the 187-run chase. It was Shami's first over for India in Australia after he joined the team post his recovery from COVID-19 and the senior pacer managed to impress all with his heroics. However, Kapil believes Shami can't be compared with someone like Afridi on the basis of one over that he bowled against Australia in the warm-up game. Also Read: Pakistan not the destination, it is just a step towards it for India: Gautam Gambhir on marquee clash "You can’t judge anything by just one over," Kapil said during a debate in a joint broadcast of Samaa TV and ABP News. "I wouldn’t even like to compare (Shami and Shaheen). Shami hasn’t played a lot of cricket of late. I would have perhaps compared Bumrah with Shaheen if he was there, but I can’t compare Shami and Afridi because there is a lot of difference. Looking at the performances of the last two years, Shaheen has been very good. Whenever he has got an opportunity, he has made an impact," Kapil explained. While Afridi has been Pakistan's pace spearhead in T20Is and has been exceptional with the new ball, Shami was not in the scheme of things for India a few months ago as far as T20Is were concerned. The senior pacer last played a T20I game for India during the T20 World Cup last year. Also Read: WATCH: Rohit Sharma controls emotions during national anthem ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash However, an injury to Jasprit Bumrah just days ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022, paved way for Shami's comeback in India's T20I squad. He was roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20 World Cup squad and will be hoping to justify his selection with good performances in the tournament. India are currently locking horns with Pakistan in their T20 World Cup opener at the Melbourne Cricket Ground where both Shami and Afridi are in action for their respective teams.

Can't compare Mohammed Shami to Shaheen Afridi on the basis of one over, says legendary Kapil Dev

<p>England were wobbly with the bat, but hostile with the ball and outstanding on the field in a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup opener here on Saturday. Sam Curran led the way with excellent figures of 5/10 as title contenders England, aided by some incredible catches, bowled out Afghanistan for 112 in a Super 12 Group 1 match.</p>

<p>While left-arm fast-medium bowling all-rounder Curran did the bulk of the damage, England were also helped by as many as three stunning catches after Jos Buttler opted to bowl.</p>

<p>Ibrahim Zadran (32) and Usman Ghani (30) were the two main contributors for Afghanistan. When England batted, Liam Livingstone (29 off 21 balls) was there till the end to see the team through after they lost five wickets. England won with 11 balls to spare.</p>

<p>Buttler did not last long, falling for an 18-ball 18 to Fazalhaq Farooqi but the Afghans did not have enough on the board to pose any sort of threat to an English line-up that bats deep.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-pacer-tim-southee-pips-shakib-al-hasan-to-become-leading-wicket-taker-in-t20is-527621">New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is</a></p>

<p>Alex Hales, too, got out after making 19 in 20 deliveries but that did not come in the way of a convincing England victory. Ben Stokes (2) was out cheaply too, leaving England at 65 for three in the 11th over. It became 97 for five in the 16th over, when Rashid Khan had Harry Brook (7) caught by Ibrahim Zadran.</p>

<p>On a lively Optus track that encouraged a good contest between the bat and the ball, Afghanistan managed 35 runs in the powerplay after losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the second over.</p>

<p>Declared fit for the game after being hit by Shaheen Afridi during the warm-ups, Gurbaz produced an outrageous shot to pull Chris Woakes over fine-leg for a six, but a quick 146kph Mark Wood delivery cut short his stay in the middle as he edged it to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.</p>

<p>Wood welcomed Ibrahim Zadran with a 154kph thunderbolt that went past the outside edge after holding its line from just back of a length. However, the next ball was a full toss and it was duly smashed through the covers, easing Zadran's nerves.</p>

<p>After hardly getting the strike, Hazratullah Zazai got into the act by playing Woakes over cover point for a boundary.<br />
Wood kept bowling fast at the other end, but Zadran was equal to the task, flaying a mean short ball from the English pacer over fine leg for a maximum.</p>

<p>As Afghanistan entered the middle overs looking to improve the run rate, Liam Livingstone pulled off a blinder running in from the deep, to signal the departure of Zazai after the batter had looked to slash one over third man.</p>

<p>Ben Stokes, who opened the proceedings for England, was the bowler on that occasion. With Afghanistan at 37 for two in seven overs, Sam Curran was introduced into the attack, and Usman Ghani flicked him for four.</p>

<p>However, England succeeded in keeping things tight in the middle before Curran returned to dismiss Zadran, thanks to a fine catch by Moeen Ali at backward point.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/confident-india-hoping-to-turn-tables-on-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-clash-527624">Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Stokes was seen grimacing after completing his third over, but it did not look serious. Najibullah Zadran hit Adil Rashid for a six straight down the ground in a 13-run 13th over before Wood came back to check the flow of runs.</p>

<p>Stokes sent back Najibullah, this time it was the turn of Adil Rashid to come up with a brilliant catch as the fielder, stationed at mid-on, he went back and completed an excellent catch after covering a lot of ground.</p>

<p>Buttler added his name to the list of phenomenal catches when he grabbed on to the ball after a well directed short ball by Wood had Mohammed Nabi in all sorts of trouble.</p>


England were wobbly with the bat, but hostile with the ball and outstanding on the field in a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup opener here on Saturday.

England were wobbly with the bat, but hostile with the ball and outstanding on the field in a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup opener here on Saturday. Sam Curran led the way with excellent figures of 5/10 as title contenders England, aided by some incredible catches, bowled out Afghanistan for 112 in a Super 12 Group 1 match. While left-arm fast-medium bowling all-rounder Curran did the bulk of the damage, England were also helped by as many as three stunning catches after Jos Buttler opted to bowl. Ibrahim Zadran (32) and Usman Ghani (30) were the two main contributors for Afghanistan. When England batted, Liam Livingstone (29 off 21 balls) was there till the end to see the team through after they lost five wickets. England won with 11 balls to spare. Buttler did not last long, falling for an 18-ball 18 to Fazalhaq Farooqi but the Afghans did not have enough on the board to pose any sort of threat to an English line-up that bats deep. Also Read: New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is Alex Hales, too, got out after making 19 in 20 deliveries but that did not come in the way of a convincing England victory. Ben Stokes (2) was out cheaply too, leaving England at 65 for three in the 11th over. It became 97 for five in the 16th over, when Rashid Khan had Harry Brook (7) caught by Ibrahim Zadran. On a lively Optus track that encouraged a good contest between the bat and the ball, Afghanistan managed 35 runs in the powerplay after losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the second over. Declared fit for the game after being hit by Shaheen Afridi during the warm-ups, Gurbaz produced an outrageous shot to pull Chris Woakes over fine-leg for a six, but a quick 146kph Mark Wood delivery cut short his stay in the middle as he edged it to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler. Wood welcomed Ibrahim Zadran with a 154kph thunderbolt that went past the outside edge after holding its line from just back of a length. However, the next ball was a full toss and it was duly smashed through the covers, easing Zadran's nerves. After hardly getting the strike, Hazratullah Zazai got into the act by playing Woakes over cover point for a boundary. Wood kept bowling fast at the other end, but Zadran was equal to the task, flaying a mean short ball from the English pacer over fine leg for a maximum. As Afghanistan entered the middle overs looking to improve the run rate, Liam Livingstone pulled off a blinder running in from the deep, to signal the departure of Zazai after the batter had looked to slash one over third man. Ben Stokes, who opened the proceedings for England, was the bowler on that occasion. With Afghanistan at 37 for two in seven overs, Sam Curran was introduced into the attack, and Usman Ghani flicked him for four. However, England succeeded in keeping things tight in the middle before Curran returned to dismiss Zadran, thanks to a fine catch by Moeen Ali at backward point. Also Read: Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash Meanwhile, Stokes was seen grimacing after completing his third over, but it did not look serious. Najibullah Zadran hit Adil Rashid for a six straight down the ground in a 13-run 13th over before Wood came back to check the flow of runs. Stokes sent back Najibullah, this time it was the turn of Adil Rashid to come up with a brilliant catch as the fielder, stationed at mid-on, he went back and completed an excellent catch after covering a lot of ground. Buttler added his name to the list of phenomenal catches when he grabbed on to the ball after a well directed short ball by Wood had Mohammed Nabi in all sorts of trouble.

Sam Curran bags five-wicket haul as England beat Afghanistan by five wickets in T20 World Cup 2022

<p>Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.</p>

<p>While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'.</p>

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field.</p>

<p>But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats.</p>

<p>It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-pacer-tim-southee-pips-shakib-al-hasan-to-become-leading-wicket-taker-in-t20is-527621">New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is</a></p>

<p>While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times.</p>

<p>And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'.</p>

<p>BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious.</p>

<p>India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India</p>

<p>This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet.</p>

<p>And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler.</p>

<p>The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form.</p>

<p>How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations.</p>

<p>But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy.</p>

<p>While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things.</p>

<p>But with three left-handers -&nbsp;Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation.</p>

<p>Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devon-conway-tim-southee-help-new-zealand-thrash-australia-by-89-runs-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527600">Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best.<br />
At the MCG after 37 years</p>

<p>It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson &amp; Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place.</p>

<p>That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG.</p>

<p>There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours.</p>

<p>No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'.</p>

<p><strong>Squads:</strong></p>

<p>India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda.</p>

<p>Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.</p>


Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.

Its unblemished record of success against the arch-rivals at the marquee ICC events a thing of the past, a hurt Indian team will be desperate for revenge against a high-quality Pakistan side in a sell-out Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday. While rain is threatening to play spoilsport, it's unlikely to be a complete washout according to people who understand weather conditions here. Thousands of fans from both countries have crisscrossed the globe to watch their team in action and trust rival captains Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to tell you this is another 'match' for them but all the 22 players and the reserves know that this is 'The Match'. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, under whom, India never lost to Pakistan at ICC events, would repeat himself time and again that there is no place for the word 'revenge' in a cricket field. But a lot has changed in the past one year since Shaheen Shah Afridi in an intimidating opening spell gave Pakistan team its first victory in a World Cup across formats. It wasn't just a match won or a voodoo broken but that 3/31 by Shaheen was also successful in bruising the egos of some of contemporary cricket world's biggest batting stalwarts. Also Read: New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is While Rohit, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul aren't the ones to forget last year's humiliation in Dubai easily, the fact remains that India as a team has looked slightly under-cooked in recent times. And at least on Sunday, the 'Men In Blue' wouldn't start as favourites in the 'mother of all clashes'. BCCI's statement that India will not travel to Pakistan to play the Asia Cup and the subsequent PCB threat of pulling out of 50 over World Cup in India has only made the atmosphere more politically charged and vicious. India wouldn't mind going into a match as underdogs and it will be Pakistan, who will have to live up to the high expectations. Combination is still a worry for India This has been a trend with the Indian team for some time now -- not having a settled combination. In 2019, they didn't have a number four even after two years in the run-up to the meet. And now, one year after the last T20 World Cup, India might have to drop a specialist left-hander (Rishabh Pant) from the top five in order to accommodate an extra bowler. The sameness in the batting line-up is a bit worrying as it would let Shaheen, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bowl one line in absence of Pant, who also has been a touch out of form. How India's top three handle Shaheen in the Powerplay would dictate how the match will pan out. One man, who could perhaps take Shaheen head-on is India's current No. 1 batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is someone who never changes his game irrespective of conditions or situations. But in wet conditions, Rohit would pray that lady luck will shine on him and he would win the toss and may be opt to chase when his his bowling line-up looks a bit scratchy. While India have three spinners in the line-up, there could be only one playing in the end if the persistent rains and a sharp dip in temperature, makes the conditions seamer-friendly. In that case, an out-of-form Harshal Patel, with decent batting skills might be back in the scheme of things. But with three left-handers - Shan Masood/Fakhar Zaman, Mohammed Nawaz and Khushdil Shah, a bowler who can turn it away is always going to be in the mix. Hence Ravichandran Ashwin can never be completely out of the equation. Last time, the strategy to promote Nawaz as a pinch hitter in Asia Cup Super 4, literally stumped India but they must have done better homework this time not to get caught off-guard. Also Read: Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022 On Sunday, the only factor that puts Pakistan slightly ahead is Shaheen, who is slowly reaching close to his best. At the MCG after 37 years It is after nearly 37-and-a-half years that an India versus Pakistan clash has been scheduled at the MCG. First since the 1985 Benson & Hedges World Championship of cricket final took place. That was Sunil Gavaskar's last match as India captain and back home in India, fans watched Ravi Shastri take a gleaming Audi for a spin around MCG. There were barely 30,000 fans that day and an offensive poster in the stands by the locals on that day, read "World Cup final: Tram Conductors vs Bus Drivers," basically demeaning the social status of the two South Asian neighbours. No one at that time would have envisaged that an India versus Pakistan matches would become a major commercial vehicle at multi-team events. It's not just another match, It is 'The Match'. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel and Deepak Hooda. Pakistan: Babar Azam (captain), Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Mohammed Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammed Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Hasnain.

Confident India hoping to turn tables on Pakistan in T20 World Cup clash

<p>New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pipped Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the highest wicket-taker in T20Is on Saturday (October 22). Southee achieved the elusive feat during New Zealand's clash against defending champions Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney after delivering a masterclass with the ball.</p>

<p>Southee was the pick of the bowlers for the Kiwis as New Zealand thrashed Australia by89 runs to hand the hosts their biggest defeat in a T20I. New Zealand rode on opener Devon Conway's unbeaten 92 off 58 balls and Southee's three-wicket haul to get off to a winning start in the tournament.</p>

<p>Heading into the game, Southee was joint-top on the list of highest wicket-takers in T20Is with Shakib as both players had 122 scalps under their belt. However, the New Zealand pacer finished with a three-wicket haul against the Aussies to extend his tally to 125 wickets in 101 matches and become the leading wicket-taker in T20Is. Shakib has 122 wickets to his name in 104 T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/devon-conway-tim-southee-help-new-zealand-thrash-australia-by-89-runs-in-t20-world-cup-2022-527600">Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>Southee was brilliant with the new ball as he dismissed Australian opener David Warner on the very first ball he bowled in the game before removing the likes of Mitchell Marsh and Pat Cummins cheaply to set up New Zealand's comprehensive win against the defending champions.</p>

<p>Batting first in the game, New Zealand managed to post a big total of 200 runs on the board with the help of Conway's 92 and Finn Allen's brilliant cameo of 16-ball 42. In reply, the Australian batters crumbled under pressure as the hosts were bundled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a humiliating 89-run loss.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-player-is-not-picked-to-play-10-balls-gambhir-explains-why-india-should-play-pant-over-karthik-in-t20-wc-527574">A player is not picked to play 10 balls: Gambhir explains why India should play Pant over Karthik in T20 WC</a></p>

<p>New Zealand had not won a white-ball game in Australia since 2013 but managed to bring an end to their long-standing jinx with a stellar performance at the SCG. They will be looking to continue their winning run in their next game against Afghanistan on Wednesday.</p>


New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pipped Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the highest wicket-taker in T20Is on Saturday (October 22). Southee achieved the elusive feat during New Zealand's clash against defending champions Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney after delivering a masterclass with the ball.

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pipped Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the highest wicket-taker in T20Is on Saturday (October 22). Southee achieved the elusive feat during New Zealand's clash against defending champions Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney after delivering a masterclass with the ball. Southee was the pick of the bowlers for the Kiwis as New Zealand thrashed Australia by89 runs to hand the hosts their biggest defeat in a T20I. New Zealand rode on opener Devon Conway's unbeaten 92 off 58 balls and Southee's three-wicket haul to get off to a winning start in the tournament. Heading into the game, Southee was joint-top on the list of highest wicket-takers in T20Is with Shakib as both players had 122 scalps under their belt. However, the New Zealand pacer finished with a three-wicket haul against the Aussies to extend his tally to 125 wickets in 101 matches and become the leading wicket-taker in T20Is. Shakib has 122 wickets to his name in 104 T20Is. Also Read: Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022 Southee was brilliant with the new ball as he dismissed Australian opener David Warner on the very first ball he bowled in the game before removing the likes of Mitchell Marsh and Pat Cummins cheaply to set up New Zealand's comprehensive win against the defending champions. Batting first in the game, New Zealand managed to post a big total of 200 runs on the board with the help of Conway's 92 and Finn Allen's brilliant cameo of 16-ball 42. In reply, the Australian batters crumbled under pressure as the hosts were bundled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a humiliating 89-run loss. Also Read: A player is not picked to play 10 balls: Gambhir explains why India should play Pant over Karthik in T20 WC New Zealand had not won a white-ball game in Australia since 2013 but managed to bring an end to their long-standing jinx with a stellar performance at the SCG. They will be looking to continue their winning run in their next game against Afghanistan on Wednesday.

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee pips Shakib Al Hasan to become leading wicket-taker in T20Is

<p>New Zealand demolished hosts and defending champions Australia by 89 runs in their opening game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 to get off to a flying start in the tournament. The Kiwis produced an excellent all-round performance to outclass Australia in all three departments at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney to bring an end to their 11-year-long wait for a win in a white-ball game in Australia.</p>

<p>New Zealand rode on a stunning knock of an unbeaten 92 from opener Devon Conway and a bowling masterclass from Tim Southee to register a comprehensive win in their opening game of the showpiece event. Asked to bat first in the game, the Kiwis got off to a solid start as openers Fin Allen and Conway took the Aussie bowlers to the cleaners.</p>

<p>Allen went after the hosts from the word go as he scored a quickfire 42 off just 16 balls to add 56 runs for the first wicket with Conway before being cleaned up by Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Conway took charge after Allen's departure and slammed seven fours and two sixes en route to his 58-ball 92. While he missed out on a well-deserved century, the left-hander's terrific knock helped New Zealand post a strong total of 200 runs on the board as the Aussie bowlers struggled for wickets.</p>

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<p>Josh Hazlewood was the top wicket-taker for Australia with two wickets to his name but ended up conceding 41 runs off his quota of four overs in what was a disappointing outing for the fast bowler. The likes of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were also taken to the cleaners by Conway and Allen among others.</p>

<p>In reply, Australia's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards as the defending champions kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Glenn Maxwell top-scored with 28 off 20 balls as the hosts were skittled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a comprehensive defeat in their first game in the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scrap-asia-cup-dont-bring-politics-into-cricket-javed-miandad-slams-bcci-after-jay-shahs-comments-527557">Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments</a></p>

<p>New Zealand registered their first win against Australia in a white-ball game in Australia since February 2009 while the Aussies recorded their lowest total in a T20I match at home and suffered their biggest defeat in T20Is. It was also New Zealand's biggest win by the margins of runs in a T20 World Cup game.</p>

<p>The huge defeat has left Australia wounded and the defending champions will be eager to bounce back when they ock horns with Sri Lanka in their next game in Perth on Tuesday while New Zealand will be hoping to continue their winning run against Afghanistan in their next game on Wednesday.</p>


New Zealand demolished hosts and defending champions Australia by 89 runs in their opening game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 to get off to a flying start in the tournament.

New Zealand demolished hosts and defending champions Australia by 89 runs in their opening game of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 to get off to a flying start in the tournament. The Kiwis produced an excellent all-round performance to outclass Australia in all three departments at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney to bring an end to their 11-year-long wait for a win in a white-ball game in Australia. New Zealand rode on a stunning knock of an unbeaten 92 from opener Devon Conway and a bowling masterclass from Tim Southee to register a comprehensive win in their opening game of the showpiece event. Asked to bat first in the game, the Kiwis got off to a solid start as openers Fin Allen and Conway took the Aussie bowlers to the cleaners. Allen went after the hosts from the word go as he scored a quickfire 42 off just 16 balls to add 56 runs for the first wicket with Conway before being cleaned up by Josh Hazlewood. Conway took charge after Allen's departure and slammed seven fours and two sixes en route to his 58-ball 92. While he missed out on a well-deserved century, the left-hander's terrific knock helped New Zealand post a strong total of 200 runs on the board as the Aussie bowlers struggled for wickets. Also Read: Kevin Pietersen calls Man Utd manager Erik Ten Hag a 'clown' for 'disrespecting' Cristiano Ronaldo Josh Hazlewood was the top wicket-taker for Australia with two wickets to his name but ended up conceding 41 runs off his quota of four overs in what was a disappointing outing for the fast bowler. The likes of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were also taken to the cleaners by Conway and Allen among others. In reply, Australia's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards as the defending champions kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Glenn Maxwell top-scored with 28 off 20 balls as the hosts were skittled out for a paltry 111 runs to suffer a comprehensive defeat in their first game in the tournament. Also Read: Scrap Asia Cup, don't bring politics into cricket: Javed Miandad slams BCCI after Jay Shah's comments New Zealand registered their first win against Australia in a white-ball game in Australia since February 2009 while the Aussies recorded their lowest total in a T20I match at home and suffered their biggest defeat in T20Is. It was also New Zealand's biggest win by the margins of runs in a T20 World Cup game. The huge defeat has left Australia wounded and the defending champions will be eager to bounce back when they ock horns with Sri Lanka in their next game in Perth on Tuesday while New Zealand will be hoping to continue their winning run against Afghanistan in their next game on Wednesday.

Devon Conway, Tim Southee help New Zealand thrash Australia by 89 runs in T20 World Cup 2022