Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If reports by The Telegraph are to be believed, Kohli will have to perform very well and strike at an impressive rate to be considered for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. At present, it is being widely reported that the former Indian captain isn't a certainty in India's squad and is likely to make way for power hitters.&nbsp;

During the England Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will lead India in the T20 WC. However, he didn't confirm Kohli's participation. In this regard, Shah said, "We will discuss Virat’s role in due course." Rohit and Kohli returned to the T20I setup after 14 months during the Afghanistan series early this year.

It is believed that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are keen to go ahead with power hitters such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma, etc. instead of including Kohli (who has a strike rate of 138.15 in T20Is). Moreover, the committee feels the&nbsp;slow pitches in West Indies -- co-hosts along with USA for the T20 WC -- won't suit Kohli's style of play. Thus, a discussion with Kohli is on the cards and his T20I future might well be sealed sooner than later. If he gets dropped, it will be a huge development.

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Meanwhile, in a recent interaction with News18, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Irfan opined that no Indian team can be complete without Kohli. "No Indian team can be formed without Virat Kohli. How can anyone say that Virat Kohli should not be in India's team for T20 World Cup?&nbsp;You can see whatever the pressure, he performed for India, he always delivered for India," said Irfan.

India's T20 WC squad will be announced in early May, the deadline for all the participating teams, during the IPL 2024 season. At present, all eyes will be on how Kohli performs in the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If reports by The Telegraph are to be believed, Kohli will have to perform very well and strike at an impressive rate to be considered for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. At present, it is being widely reported that the former Indian captain isn't a certainty in India's squad and is likely to make way for power hitters. During the England Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will lead India in the T20 WC. However, he didn't confirm Kohli's participation. In this regard, Shah said, "We will discuss Virat’s role in due course." Rohit and Kohli returned to the T20I setup after 14 months during the Afghanistan series early this year. It is believed that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are keen to go ahead with power hitters such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma, etc. instead of including Kohli (who has a strike rate of 138.15 in T20Is). Moreover, the committee feels the slow pitches in West Indies -- co-hosts along with USA for the T20 WC -- won't suit Kohli's style of play. Thus, a discussion with Kohli is on the cards and his T20I future might well be sealed sooner than later. If he gets dropped, it will be a huge development. Also read: Mohammed Kaif lauds 'all-format player' Yashasvi Jaiswal after England Tests, calls for his ODI debut Meanwhile, in a recent interaction with News18, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Irfan opined that no Indian team can be complete without Kohli. "No Indian team can be formed without Virat Kohli. How can anyone say that Virat Kohli should not be in India's team for T20 World Cup? You can see whatever the pressure, he performed for India, he always delivered for India," said Irfan. India's T20 WC squad will be announced in early May, the deadline for all the participating teams, during the IPL 2024 season. At present, all eyes will be on how Kohli performs in the upcoming IPL season.

Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports

Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram has slammed Shaheen Afridi for being predictable with the ball following his flop show in match 28 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 edition. On Sunday (March 10), Shaheen-led Lahore Qalandars locked horns with Quetta Gladiators and lost the clash while defending a moderate 166. While Shaheen impressed with a blistering 34-ball 55, promoting himself at No. 5, but failed in his primary job. The Lahore captain returned with figures of 4-0-41-2; failing to defend 14 off the final over as his side bowed out of the playoffs race.&nbsp;

Akram feels Shaheen has become very predictable for the batters, with the new as well as the old ball. Talking on A Sports, the legend said, "Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepared for it now."

“Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepare for it now,” he further opined.

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Akram spoke on Pakistan T20I captain's knock and said, "Shaheen got runs. But their big two hitters Sikandar Raza (got five balls) and David Wiese didn’t get a chance." With Shaheen promoting himself up the order, he did a fine job but struggled in the last few deliveries. He reached his fifty in 28 balls but only managed five off the last six deliveries before falling for 55 (34). With him coming up, Raza hardly got a chance with the bat whereas power-hitter David Weise didn't even get a hit with the bat.

With only one win and eight losses from 10 games, Lahore are out of PSL 2024 and Shaheen-led squad will be eager to get past this season and comeback strongly next year. For Shaheen, he will now shift his focus on his bowling completely and work hard on it with the T20 World Cup 2024 edition to be held early this June.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram has slammed Shaheen Afridi for being predictable with the ball following his flop show in match 28 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 edition.

Former Pakistan speedster Wasim Akram has slammed Shaheen Afridi for being predictable with the ball following his flop show in match 28 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 edition. On Sunday (March 10), Shaheen-led Lahore Qalandars locked horns with Quetta Gladiators and lost the clash while defending a moderate 166. While Shaheen impressed with a blistering 34-ball 55, promoting himself at No. 5, but failed in his primary job. The Lahore captain returned with figures of 4-0-41-2; failing to defend 14 off the final over as his side bowed out of the playoffs race. Akram feels Shaheen has become very predictable for the batters, with the new as well as the old ball. Talking on A Sports, the legend said, "Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepared for it now." “Even with the new ball, we all were watching it together, he was bowling half volleys. He needs to understand that batsmen now have understood that the first two balls from Shaheen will be yorkers. In the death he will either bowl slower cutter or will on the stumps around the wicket. Batsmen are prepare for it now,” he further opined. Also read: IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why Akram spoke on Pakistan T20I captain's knock and said, "Shaheen got runs. But their big two hitters Sikandar Raza (got five balls) and David Wiese didn’t get a chance." With Shaheen promoting himself up the order, he did a fine job but struggled in the last few deliveries. He reached his fifty in 28 balls but only managed five off the last six deliveries before falling for 55 (34). With him coming up, Raza hardly got a chance with the bat whereas power-hitter David Weise didn't even get a hit with the bat. With only one win and eight losses from 10 games, Lahore are out of PSL 2024 and Shaheen-led squad will be eager to get past this season and comeback strongly next year. For Shaheen, he will now shift his focus on his bowling completely and work hard on it with the T20 World Cup 2024 edition to be held early this June.

Wasim Akram urges Shaheen Afridi to work on his death-over bowling after flop show in PSL 2024

"Universe Boss" Chris Gayle feels the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition will help in the game's expansion in the United States of America. The mega event will take place in the USA and West Indies, which gets underway on June 1. The T20I great mentioned the significance&nbsp;of the T20 WC&nbsp;in bringing cricket to a global audience, especially within the United States. Further, he elaborated his stance by&nbsp;highlighting&nbsp;the success of a T20 tournament held in the USA in 2023, indicating a growing interest and market for the game&nbsp;in the country.

Speaking to AFP in an interview, from Barbados, Gayle said, "The ICC (International Cricket Council) has been trying to get cricket on a global scale within the USA." The West Indies batter added that the game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, to be held in New York on June 9, will help generating maximum eyeballs and spreading the game's popularity in USA."

"India v Pakistan is in New York, I'm sure it's going to be phenomenal. They (the USA) had a T20 tournament last year and it was a success. It's a big market, we just have to hope it will be a success within the United States," Gayle further opined.

The Indo-Pak encounter is a much-awaited match among&nbsp;cricket fans in the USA. It will help in popularising the game in the country and is expected to be a sellout.&nbsp; Both India and Pakistan are in Group A, along with Ireland, USA and Canada.

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Gayle also spoke at length on the chances of his national side. West Indies, the&nbsp;two-time winners, are in Group C along with&nbsp;New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda and Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

"We missed out on the 50-over World Cup (in 2023) so this will be something fantastic for the guys to actually play for something. We just want to be in the (June 29) final here in Barbados. Anything is possible when you make it to the final."

"I'm excited for the people, to actually see a bit of cricket," added Gayle, who was the first batter to hit a T20I century during the opening game of the inaugural T20 WC in 2007.

"Universe Boss" Chris Gayle feels the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition will help in the game's expansion in the United States of America. The mega event will take place in the USA and West Indies, which gets underway on June 1.

"Universe Boss" Chris Gayle feels the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition will help in the game's expansion in the United States of America. The mega event will take place in the USA and West Indies, which gets underway on June 1. The T20I great mentioned the significance of the T20 WC in bringing cricket to a global audience, especially within the United States. Further, he elaborated his stance by highlighting the success of a T20 tournament held in the USA in 2023, indicating a growing interest and market for the game in the country. Speaking to AFP in an interview, from Barbados, Gayle said, "The ICC (International Cricket Council) has been trying to get cricket on a global scale within the USA." The West Indies batter added that the game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, to be held in New York on June 9, will help generating maximum eyeballs and spreading the game's popularity in USA." "India v Pakistan is in New York, I'm sure it's going to be phenomenal. They (the USA) had a T20 tournament last year and it was a success. It's a big market, we just have to hope it will be a success within the United States," Gayle further opined. The Indo-Pak encounter is a much-awaited match among cricket fans in the USA. It will help in popularising the game in the country and is expected to be a sellout. Both India and Pakistan are in Group A, along with Ireland, USA and Canada. Also read: Steve Smith 'isn't sure of a place' in Australia squad for upcoming T20 World Cup Gayle also spoke at length on the chances of his national side. West Indies, the two-time winners, are in Group C along with New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda and Papua New Guinea. "We missed out on the 50-over World Cup (in 2023) so this will be something fantastic for the guys to actually play for something. We just want to be in the (June 29) final here in Barbados. Anything is possible when you make it to the final." "I'm excited for the people, to actually see a bit of cricket," added Gayle, who was the first batter to hit a T20I century during the opening game of the inaugural T20 WC in 2007.

Gayle hopes T20 World Cup will help cricket rise in USA, says India vs Pakistan will be 'phenomenal'

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition&nbsp;in West Indies and USA. The upcoming ICC event kicks off in early June with India placed in Group A with Ireland, USA, Canada and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will start their campaign on June 5, versus Ireland.

Speaking to Mid Day, Ganguly -- who also served as the BCCI chief -- said, "Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice."

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Ahead of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test between India and England, in the ongoing five-match series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Rohit will lead the national side in the next edition of the T20 WC. There were speculations of Hardik Pandya to lead India in the mega event with Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, being away from India's T20I setup for 14 months since the 2022 T20 WC semifinal defeat (to eventual winners England). However, Rohit returned to the shortest format early this year during India's T20I series win over Afghanistan. With him, Kohli also made a T20I comeback.&nbsp;

Moreover, Hardik -- who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of IPL 2024 -- is recovering from an ankle injury, which he suffered during India's ODI WC campaign last year. He will serve as Rohit's deputy in the T20 WC if deemed fully fit by then.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition in West Indies and USA. The upcoming ICC event kicks off in early June with India placed in Group A with Ireland, USA, Canada and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will start their campaign on June 5, versus Ireland. Speaking to Mid Day, Ganguly -- who also served as the BCCI chief -- said, "Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice." Also read: Want to ask him why was I dropped: Manoj Tiwary questions MS Dhoni on Team India snub Ahead of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test between India and England, in the ongoing five-match series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Rohit will lead the national side in the next edition of the T20 WC. There were speculations of Hardik Pandya to lead India in the mega event with Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, being away from India's T20I setup for 14 months since the 2022 T20 WC semifinal defeat (to eventual winners England). However, Rohit returned to the shortest format early this year during India's T20I series win over Afghanistan. With him, Kohli also made a T20I comeback. Moreover, Hardik -- who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of IPL 2024 -- is recovering from an ankle injury, which he suffered during India's ODI WC campaign last year. He will serve as Rohit's deputy in the T20 WC if deemed fully fit by then.

Rohit Sharma right choice to lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup: Former captain Sourav Ganguly

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA. At an event in the Rajkot, which saw the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium being renamed to Niranjan Shah Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 14), Shah confirmed that Hitman will lead the Men in Blue in the mega event which starts in early June. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland.

After the announcement from Shah, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble said that he isn't surprised with the call. Speaking to Sports18, Kumble pointed out, "The Rohit Sharma announcement, I don't think was a surprise because I certainly believe that we need that stability, especially at the top. Rohit is someone who has done exceptionally well as India's captain."

Kumble added, "His T20 form in the IPL hasn't been special in the last couple of years but he's a quality player. We saw against Afghanistan, when the team was struggling a bit he came and scored that wonderful hundred. It's important you have that kind of stability going into the T20 World Cup."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-will-lead-india-in-2024-t20-world-cup-hardik-to-be-his-deputy-jay-shah-690429">Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: Jay Shah</a>

On Wednesday, Shah said in the event in Rajkot, "We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. But we won hearts there by winning 10 matches in a row. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Barbados."

Rohit -- a white-ball legend -- had not featured in India's T20I setup since their 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal loss&nbsp;to eventual winners England in Adelaide. He returned to the shortest format after 14 months during India's three T20Is versus Afghanistan, at home, early this year. The series also saw Virat Kohli's return to the format, after an equal number of months. Shah also opined on Kohli's spot with regard to the T20 WC. He said, "We will talk about him [soon]."

Kohli is currently on a break from international cricket due to personal reasons and has not featured in India's ongoing home Tests versus England. On Thursday (Feb 15), India and England locked horns on Day 1 of the third Test in Rajkot. Opting to bat first, India went to lunch at 93/3 with captain Rohit surpassing the 50-run mark for the first time in the series. The five-match series is currently level&nbsp;at 1-1.

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA.

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA. At an event in the Rajkot, which saw the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium being renamed to Niranjan Shah Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 14), Shah confirmed that Hitman will lead the Men in Blue in the mega event which starts in early June. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland. After the announcement from Shah, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble said that he isn't surprised with the call. Speaking to Sports18, Kumble pointed out, "The Rohit Sharma announcement, I don't think was a surprise because I certainly believe that we need that stability, especially at the top. Rohit is someone who has done exceptionally well as India's captain." Kumble added, "His T20 form in the IPL hasn't been special in the last couple of years but he's a quality player. We saw against Afghanistan, when the team was struggling a bit he came and scored that wonderful hundred. It's important you have that kind of stability going into the T20 World Cup." Also read: Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: Jay Shah On Wednesday, Shah said in the event in Rajkot, "We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. But we won hearts there by winning 10 matches in a row. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Barbados." Rohit -- a white-ball legend -- had not featured in India's T20I setup since their 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal loss to eventual winners England in Adelaide. He returned to the shortest format after 14 months during India's three T20Is versus Afghanistan, at home, early this year. The series also saw Virat Kohli's return to the format, after an equal number of months. Shah also opined on Kohli's spot with regard to the T20 WC. He said, "We will talk about him [soon]." Kohli is currently on a break from international cricket due to personal reasons and has not featured in India's ongoing home Tests versus England. On Thursday (Feb 15), India and England locked horns on Day 1 of the third Test in Rajkot. Opting to bat first, India went to lunch at 93/3 with captain Rohit surpassing the 50-run mark for the first time in the series. The five-match series is currently level at 1-1.

Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why -

Australia great David Warner has given the first signs of international retirement after playing a match-winning knock in the T20I contest against West Indies on Friday (Feb 9). Warner, now only playing in the T20Is for Australia, scored&nbsp;70 runs&nbsp;which helped his team&nbsp;beat West Indies in Hobart. Australia won the match by 11 runs in a tight contest with Adam Zampa&nbsp;ending with three wickets in the match. The southpaw from New South Wales recently retired from Test cricket after a successful career with the national side.

<h2>Warner hints at retirement</h2>

"Pleasing to get the win on the board. Was a nice wicket to bat on and you have to make the most of those. Feel great and refreshed, I’m pumped. I want to play the T20 World Cup and finish there and it’s a good journey we’ve got going for the next 6 months. Pretty much the same squad going to New Zealand so it’s important we win there as well," Warner said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Having started his career as a T20 expert, Warner came into fame in 2009 and was quickly picked by Delhi Daredevils. In his long career with the national side, he scored 6932 runs in the ODI format while also scoring 2964 runs in the T20 format. He is currently on the brink of completing 3000 runs in the T20 format.

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His legacy in Australian cricket has seen him win the T20 World Cup while twice winning the ODI World Cup in 2015 and 2023. In the Test format, he has played 112 matches and scored 8786 runs along with 26 hundreds. He also has 48 international hundreds, most for an Australia in all formats.

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In Friday’s match Warner’s 70-run saw Australia win and take a 1-0 lead in the series while he was supported by 39 runs as the hosts scored 213/7 in their 20 overs. Tim David (37) and Matthew Wade (21) were also the prime contributors to the big total.

In response, West Indies managed&nbsp;202/8 in their 20 overs and lost the close contest. Brandon King (53) and Johnson Charles (42) gave the visitors a good start, however, that could not be consolidated and West Indies lost the match. They went from 89/0 to 163/8, losing wickets at a consistent pace in the match.

The two sides next meet on Sunday in Adelaide as the hosts look to pocket the series. West Indies on the other hand&nbsp;will look to fight back and avoid another series defeat.

Australia great David Warner has given the first signs of international retirement after playing a match-winning knock in the T20I contest against West Indies on Friday (Feb 9).

Australia great David Warner has given the first signs of international retirement after playing a match-winning knock in the T20I contest against West Indies on Friday (Feb 9). Warner, now only playing in the T20Is for Australia, scored 70 runs which helped his team beat West Indies in Hobart. Australia won the match by 11 runs in a tight contest with Adam Zampa ending with three wickets in the match. The southpaw from New South Wales recently retired from Test cricket after a successful career with the national side. Warner hints at retirement "Pleasing to get the win on the board. Was a nice wicket to bat on and you have to make the most of those. Feel great and refreshed, I’m pumped. I want to play the T20 World Cup and finish there and it’s a good journey we’ve got going for the next 6 months. Pretty much the same squad going to New Zealand so it’s important we win there as well," Warner said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Having started his career as a T20 expert, Warner came into fame in 2009 and was quickly picked by Delhi Daredevils. In his long career with the national side, he scored 6932 runs in the ODI format while also scoring 2964 runs in the T20 format. He is currently on the brink of completing 3000 runs in the T20 format. × His legacy in Australian cricket has seen him win the T20 World Cup while twice winning the ODI World Cup in 2015 and 2023. In the Test format, he has played 112 matches and scored 8786 runs along with 26 hundreds. He also has 48 international hundreds, most for an Australia in all formats. ALSO READ | Golf: Bankers warn Saudis of facing possible prison time for aiding PGA-LIV probe In Friday’s match Warner’s 70-run saw Australia win and take a 1-0 lead in the series while he was supported by 39 runs as the hosts scored 213/7 in their 20 overs. Tim David (37) and Matthew Wade (21) were also the prime contributors to the big total. In response, West Indies managed 202/8 in their 20 overs and lost the close contest. Brandon King (53) and Johnson Charles (42) gave the visitors a good start, however, that could not be consolidated and West Indies lost the match. They went from 89/0 to 163/8, losing wickets at a consistent pace in the match. The two sides next meet on Sunday in Adelaide as the hosts look to pocket the series. West Indies on the other hand will look to fight back and avoid another series defeat.

Australia great David Warner hints at international retirement after T20 World Cup

Unmukt Chand, the former captain of India's under-19 cricket team who brought the World Cup trophy home in 2012, might play against India in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Unmukt Chand, the former captain of India's under-19 cricket team who brought the World Cup trophy home in 2012, might play against India in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He said it would "be strange" to clash with India as he would be eligible to play for the United States in the marquee tournament, scheduled in June. The USA is in the same group as India and Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024. India and the USA will clash in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 league match on 12 June in New York. Chand retired from all forms of cricket in India in September 2021. He has almost fulfilled the eligibility criteria of staying in the USA for 10 months in a year for three years. In a recent interview with Cricbuzz, Unmukt Chand said, "It is something which would be very strange (laughs), but I think since I've retired from India, my next goal was always to sort of play against India, and not in any bad blood but keen to test myself out against the best team in the world." In the early 2010s, Unmukt Chand was one of the most exciting prospects in India. However, he couldn't live up to the sky-high expectations after scoring a match-winning century in the under-19 World Cup finals. Unmukt Chand transferred allegiance from Delhi to Uttarakhand due to underwhelming returns in the domestic circuit. In 2021, he moved to the USA and played for the Silicon Valley Strikers. He has scored over 1,500 runs across three seasons in the first Minor League Cricket. If Chand gets selected to play for the United States, he might lock horns with players who were once his team mates like Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav. Two more players, Smit Patel and Harmeet Singh, from the under-19 World Cup 2012, have qualified to play for the United States in the T20 World Cup 2024. Patel, a wicketkeeper and batter, has played cricket for Gujarat, Tripura, and Vadodara in India. He moved to the USA in 2020. Patel fondly remembers playing with Jasprit Bumrah. "I have spent a lot of time with Jassi over the years. Still remember the day he rocked up to practice for the first time and left us awestruck with what we were witnessing," Smit told Cricbuzz. "The team had a name for him those days. We used to call him Jasprit Gumrah." (With inputs from agencies)

India's former U-19 captain says playing against India in T20 World Cup 2024 would be 'strange'

India edged past Afghanistan in a double Super Over encounter during the third and final T20I at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium,&nbsp;Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17). Having an unassailable lead in the three-match series, Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bat first in the final game. Reeling at 22-4, India posted 212/4 courtesy of a 190-run unbeaten stand between skipper Rohit (121*) and Rinku Singh (69 not out). In reply, Afghanistan rode on openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and&nbsp;Ibrahim Zadran's 50 each along with Gulbadin Naib's quickfire 55* and Mohammed Nabi's 16-ball 34 not out to post 212/6. The match went into two successive Super Overs before India won, with Rohit equalling former captain MS Dhoni for most wins as T20I captain.&nbsp;

MOST WINS AS T20I CAPTAIN

Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan) - 42

MS Dhoni (India) - 42

Rohit Sharma (India) – 42*

Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 42

Eoin Morgan (England) - 42

Brian Masaba (Uganda) - 42

Aaron Finch (Australia) - 40

Rohit, who came back into the T20I setup during the series after 14 months, had 39 victories as skipper at the start of the Afghan series, but a whitewash helped him become India's joint-most successful captain in the format. Overall, he is at par with Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Dhoni.&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-afg-coach-dravid-lauds-rohit-for-doing-ashwin-like-swap-in-two-super-over-thriller-in-3rd-t20i-681058">IND v AFG: Coach Dravid lauds Rohit for doing 'Ashwin-like swap' in double super-over thriller in 3rd T20I</a>

Talking about the third T20I, India rode on Rohit's 121 not out, laced with 11 fours and 8 sixes, and Rinku's well-compiled 39-ball 69, comprising 6 sixes, to post a mammoth total after a horrid start. In response, Afghanistan also managed to end with the same score. In the first Super Over, Afghanistan set up a stiff 17-run target for India and the hosts needed two off the final ball before the game was pushed to the second Super Over.&nbsp;

In the second Super Over, India set up a 12-run target for Afghanistan who only managed a single to lose the contest. This was India's last contest heading into the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which will commence in early June in the West Indies and the USA. India are placed in Group A along with USA, Ireland, Pakistan and Canada.&nbsp;

India edged past Afghanistan in a double Super Over encounter during the third and final T20I at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17). Having an unassailable lead in the three-match series, Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bat first in the final game.

India edged past Afghanistan in a double Super Over encounter during the third and final T20I at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17). Having an unassailable lead in the three-match series, Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bat first in the final game. Reeling at 22-4, India posted 212/4 courtesy of a 190-run unbeaten stand between skipper Rohit (121*) and Rinku Singh (69 not out). In reply, Afghanistan rode on openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran's 50 each along with Gulbadin Naib's quickfire 55* and Mohammed Nabi's 16-ball 34 not out to post 212/6. The match went into two successive Super Overs before India won, with Rohit equalling former captain MS Dhoni for most wins as T20I captain. MOST WINS AS T20I CAPTAIN Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan) - 42 MS Dhoni (India) - 42 Rohit Sharma (India) – 42* Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 42 Eoin Morgan (England) - 42 Brian Masaba (Uganda) - 42 Aaron Finch (Australia) - 40 Rohit, who came back into the T20I setup during the series after 14 months, had 39 victories as skipper at the start of the Afghan series, but a whitewash helped him become India's joint-most successful captain in the format. Overall, he is at par with Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Dhoni. × Also read: IND v AFG: Coach Dravid lauds Rohit for doing 'Ashwin-like swap' in double super-over thriller in 3rd T20I Talking about the third T20I, India rode on Rohit's 121 not out, laced with 11 fours and 8 sixes, and Rinku's well-compiled 39-ball 69, comprising 6 sixes, to post a mammoth total after a horrid start. In response, Afghanistan also managed to end with the same score. In the first Super Over, Afghanistan set up a stiff 17-run target for India and the hosts needed two off the final ball before the game was pushed to the second Super Over. In the second Super Over, India set up a 12-run target for Afghanistan who only managed a single to lose the contest. This was India's last contest heading into the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which will commence in early June in the West Indies and the USA. India are placed in Group A along with USA, Ireland, Pakistan and Canada.

Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma equals MS Dhoni for most wins as T20I captain after run-fest in Bengaluru

Shivam Dube has been in sublime form in India's ongoing three T20Is versus Afghanistan. He&nbsp;scored&nbsp;60* and 63* in the first two T20Is&nbsp;and was the Player-of-the-Match in the series opener. The left-hander is making a strong statement ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Former Indian player Rohan Sunil Gavaskar feels it won't be easy to overlook Dube irrespective of Hardik Pandya's fitness. Dube is being looked upon as Hardik's backup, given his injury issues, but Gavaskar's son feels the former might get selected even if Hardik is fit.&nbsp;

<h2>‘What he’s doing is ensuring his place&nbsp;even if Hardik is fit’</h2>

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Rohan said, "We have been talking about him as, ‘Oh, listen, what if Hardik is unfit?’, I think what he is doing is making sure that even if Hardik is fit, he is on that plane in that World Cup squad. If you put in performances like this, it is very hard for anyone to drop you. It is going to be a really tough decision for the selectors if they decide to drop him. He is doing all that he can, which is giving the selectors a headache."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-virat-kohli-will-be-very-important-for-india-in-t20-world-cup-former-all-rounder-suresh-raina-680161">Ind vs Afg: Virat Kohli will be very important for India in T20 World Cup - Former all-rounder Suresh Raina</a>

The former Indian cricketer added, "After these two games, I think he now feels that he belongs at the international level. He has got the appreciation and respect of his teammates because he put in two wonderful performances. I think he is just a lot more comfortable about his own game. He knows his own game better. He is not trying to copy anyone now. He is saying, ‘This is what I can do and what I bring to the table’."

Dube, who has also accounted for two wickets in the Afghanistan T20Is, has credited his stint with&nbsp;the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK)&nbsp;in IPL 2023, for his recent success at the international level. His power-hitting and ability to judge the weak link in the opposition's bowling line-up has been praised by former cricketers during the Afghan series.&nbsp;

At present, Rohit Sharma-led India lead the three T20Is 2-0 and will square off against Afghanistan&nbsp;for the third and inconsequential match on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Shivam Dube has been in sublime form in India's ongoing three T20Is versus Afghanistan. He scored 60* and 63* in the first two T20Is and was the Player-of-the-Match in the series opener.

Shivam Dube has been in sublime form in India's ongoing three T20Is versus Afghanistan. He scored 60* and 63* in the first two T20Is and was the Player-of-the-Match in the series opener. The left-hander is making a strong statement ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Former Indian player Rohan Sunil Gavaskar feels it won't be easy to overlook Dube irrespective of Hardik Pandya's fitness. Dube is being looked upon as Hardik's backup, given his injury issues, but Gavaskar's son feels the former might get selected even if Hardik is fit. ‘What he’s doing is ensuring his place even if Hardik is fit’ Speaking to Cricbuzz, Rohan said, "We have been talking about him as, ‘Oh, listen, what if Hardik is unfit?’, I think what he is doing is making sure that even if Hardik is fit, he is on that plane in that World Cup squad. If you put in performances like this, it is very hard for anyone to drop you. It is going to be a really tough decision for the selectors if they decide to drop him. He is doing all that he can, which is giving the selectors a headache." Also read: Ind vs Afg: Virat Kohli will be very important for India in T20 World Cup - Former all-rounder Suresh Raina The former Indian cricketer added, "After these two games, I think he now feels that he belongs at the international level. He has got the appreciation and respect of his teammates because he put in two wonderful performances. I think he is just a lot more comfortable about his own game. He knows his own game better. He is not trying to copy anyone now. He is saying, ‘This is what I can do and what I bring to the table’." Dube, who has also accounted for two wickets in the Afghanistan T20Is, has credited his stint with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2023, for his recent success at the international level. His power-hitting and ability to judge the weak link in the opposition's bowling line-up has been praised by former cricketers during the Afghan series. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India lead the three T20Is 2-0 and will square off against Afghanistan for the third and inconsequential match on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru.

Dube making sure he is part of India’s 2024 T20 WC squad even if Hardik is fit, says Rohan Gavaskar

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli will be 'very important' to India's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. The mega event will take place in West Indies and USA with the one-time winners India starting their run on June 5, versus Ireland. India are placed in Group&nbsp;A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA, and Canada.&nbsp;

Raina's comments came after India beat Afghanistan by six wickets in the second and penultimate T20I at the Holkar Stadium, Indore on Sunday (Jan 14). Kohli marked his T20I return, after 14 months, and played a vital role in the Men in Blue's successful 173-run chase, slamming an impressive 16-ball 29 (striking at 181.25).

Speaking on Sports18, Raina said, "He will be very important (to India's World Cup plans). The biggest question now will be whether Virat Kohli would be willing to play at No. 3? Rohit Sharma wants him to play No. 3 for India, will he follow the template (in the IPL?). He is trying to improve his strike rate. But I feel it’s the job of the players around him. If I am the captain, I’d tell him to do the anchor’s role because he is the kind of player who can hit boundaries and sixes any time he wants."

Also read:&nbsp;I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-rohit-sharma-becomes-batter-with-joint-second-most-ducks-in-t20is-after-flop-show-in-indore-680042">nd vs Afg: Rohit Sharma registers joint second-most ducks in T20Is after flop show in Indore</a>

“I think in this World Cup, we need Virat Kohli to stay in the middle for long. That is more important than his strike rate. We all saw he scored 765 runs in the ODI World Cup. We need him for those pitches (in West Indies and USA). The pitches are not going to be easy, it would be a little tricky with mystery spinners. You might have to find ways to get twos and quick singles if you are not able to get boundaries. One of the top 3 needs to play through 20 overs,” Raina added.

Kohli is the highest run-getter in T20 WC history -- with&nbsp;1,141 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;131.30 including 15 fifties. He has been part of the T20 WC since the 2012 edition, where he was India's top run-getter. In the next two editions, he ended with the Player-of-the Tournament awards. In 2022, he once again ended as the highest run-getter (296 runs with four half-centuries).&nbsp;

While there have been some talks regarding Kohli's strike rate and the fact that he takes some time to get going, it looks highly likely that he will be part of India's T20 WC 2024 squad.&nbsp;

Ahead of the T20 WC, India will play their last T20I which will be on Wednesday (Jan 17) when they take on Afghanistan in the third and inconsequential tie in Bengaluru. Having won the series, India will aim for a clean sweep whereas Kohli will hope to score big in the final encounter.

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli will be 'very important' to India's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. The mega event will take place in West Indies and USA with the one-time winners India starting their run on June 5, versus Ireland.

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli will be 'very important' to India's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. The mega event will take place in West Indies and USA with the one-time winners India starting their run on June 5, versus Ireland. India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA, and Canada. Raina's comments came after India beat Afghanistan by six wickets in the second and penultimate T20I at the Holkar Stadium, Indore on Sunday (Jan 14). Kohli marked his T20I return, after 14 months, and played a vital role in the Men in Blue's successful 173-run chase, slamming an impressive 16-ball 29 (striking at 181.25). Speaking on Sports18, Raina said, "He will be very important (to India's World Cup plans). The biggest question now will be whether Virat Kohli would be willing to play at No. 3? Rohit Sharma wants him to play No. 3 for India, will he follow the template (in the IPL?). He is trying to improve his strike rate. But I feel it’s the job of the players around him. If I am the captain, I’d tell him to do the anchor’s role because he is the kind of player who can hit boundaries and sixes any time he wants." Also read: Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma registers joint second-most ducks in T20Is after flop show in Indore “I think in this World Cup, we need Virat Kohli to stay in the middle for long. That is more important than his strike rate. We all saw he scored 765 runs in the ODI World Cup. We need him for those pitches (in West Indies and USA). The pitches are not going to be easy, it would be a little tricky with mystery spinners. You might have to find ways to get twos and quick singles if you are not able to get boundaries. One of the top 3 needs to play through 20 overs,” Raina added. Kohli is the highest run-getter in T20 WC history -- with 1,141 runs at a strike rate of 131.30 including 15 fifties. He has been part of the T20 WC since the 2012 edition, where he was India's top run-getter. In the next two editions, he ended with the Player-of-the Tournament awards. In 2022, he once again ended as the highest run-getter (296 runs with four half-centuries). While there have been some talks regarding Kohli's strike rate and the fact that he takes some time to get going, it looks highly likely that he will be part of India's T20 WC 2024 squad. Ahead of the T20 WC, India will play their last T20I which will be on Wednesday (Jan 17) when they take on Afghanistan in the third and inconsequential tie in Bengaluru. Having won the series, India will aim for a clean sweep whereas Kohli will hope to score big in the final encounter.

Ind vs Afg: Virat Kohli will be very important for India in T20 World Cup - Former all-rounder Suresh Raina

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Afghanistan by six wickets in pursuit of 159 in the three-match T20I series opener on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. The match marked the return of Rohit in the shortest format, having played his last T20I during the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final (where India lost to England in Adelaide). While Shivam Dube's all-round heroics sealed the game for India, captain Rohit didn't make a mark with the bat as he fell for 0 (2).

Rohit was involved in a mix-up with opening partner Shubman Gill (23) in the second ball of the run-chase. Hitman attacked&nbsp;Fazalhaq Farooqi on the second ball, by dancing down the track, and the ball raced towards mid-off. While Rohit ran and reached the non-striker's end, Gill remained at the same end and led to the skipper's departure. As a result, Rohit was livid at Gill and gave him a piece of his mind.

At the post-match presentation, Rohit reacted to the run-out and said, "These things happen. When it happens you feel frustrated, you want to be out there and score runs for the team. Everything will not go your way. We won the game, that's more important. I wanted Gill to carry on, unfortunately got out after playing a very good little innings."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-mohali-t20i-shivam-dube-credits-learnings-from-ms-dhoni-after-match-winning-60-in-pursuit-of-159-679192">Ind vs Afg, Mohali T20I: Shivam Dube credits learnings from MS Dhoni after match-winning 60* in pursuit of 159</a>

After Rohit, Gill made a brisk 23 but couldn't capitalise on the start as India were reeling at 28-2. Dube (40-ball 60 not out) and Jitesh Sharma (31) piled on the runs for India to take them past the finish line in 17.3 overs.&nbsp;

On the team's overall outing, Hitman added, "Lot of positives. Shivam Dube, the way Jitesh batted, Tilak as well and then Rinku is in good form as well. We want to keep trying different things - try and bowl our bowlers in different situations of the game, like you saw today, Washi bowled the 19th over. We want to challenge ourselves in the areas we are slightly uncomfortable with and the bowlers are not used to that. We want to try and do that. Keeping all of those things in mind, we'll try and do whatever is possible but not at the cost of the game. We want to make sure that we come out on top and play the game well. All in all, today was a good day for us."

Opting to bowl first, India rode on two-fers from Mukesh Kumar and Axar Patel to restrict Afghanistan at 158 for 5 with Mohammad Nabi top-scoring with a fine 42. In reply, India ended the chase courtesy of Dube's blitz. The second and penultimate game takes place on Sunday (Jan 14) in Indore.

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Afghanistan by six wickets in pursuit of 159 in the three-match T20I series opener on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. The match marked the return of Rohit in the shortest format, having played his last T20I during the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final (where India lost to England in Adelaide).

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Afghanistan by six wickets in pursuit of 159 in the three-match T20I series opener on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. The match marked the return of Rohit in the shortest format, having played his last T20I during the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final (where India lost to England in Adelaide). While Shivam Dube's all-round heroics sealed the game for India, captain Rohit didn't make a mark with the bat as he fell for 0 (2). Rohit was involved in a mix-up with opening partner Shubman Gill (23) in the second ball of the run-chase. Hitman attacked Fazalhaq Farooqi on the second ball, by dancing down the track, and the ball raced towards mid-off. While Rohit ran and reached the non-striker's end, Gill remained at the same end and led to the skipper's departure. As a result, Rohit was livid at Gill and gave him a piece of his mind. At the post-match presentation, Rohit reacted to the run-out and said, "These things happen. When it happens you feel frustrated, you want to be out there and score runs for the team. Everything will not go your way. We won the game, that's more important. I wanted Gill to carry on, unfortunately got out after playing a very good little innings." Also read: Ind vs Afg, Mohali T20I: Shivam Dube credits learnings from MS Dhoni after match-winning 60* in pursuit of 159 After Rohit, Gill made a brisk 23 but couldn't capitalise on the start as India were reeling at 28-2. Dube (40-ball 60 not out) and Jitesh Sharma (31) piled on the runs for India to take them past the finish line in 17.3 overs. On the team's overall outing, Hitman added, "Lot of positives. Shivam Dube, the way Jitesh batted, Tilak as well and then Rinku is in good form as well. We want to keep trying different things - try and bowl our bowlers in different situations of the game, like you saw today, Washi bowled the 19th over. We want to challenge ourselves in the areas we are slightly uncomfortable with and the bowlers are not used to that. We want to try and do that. Keeping all of those things in mind, we'll try and do whatever is possible but not at the cost of the game. We want to make sure that we come out on top and play the game well. All in all, today was a good day for us." Opting to bowl first, India rode on two-fers from Mukesh Kumar and Axar Patel to restrict Afghanistan at 158 for 5 with Mohammad Nabi top-scoring with a fine 42. In reply, India ended the chase courtesy of Dube's blitz. The second and penultimate game takes place on Sunday (Jan 14) in Indore.

Ind v Afg, 1st T20I: Rohit Sharma reacts to yelling at Shubman Gill after being run-out in Mohali

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Sanju Samson needs to make the most of the opportunities in the three-match T20I series versus Afghanistan, which&nbsp;kicked off in India on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Raina feels Samson can be India's X-factor in the Men in Blue's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, which will be held in June in West Indies and USA.

Speaking to&nbsp;Sports18, Raina said, "Sanju has made a wonderful hundred against South Africa recently. He is definitely captain material as his mind is ticking all the time while on the field. We have some very good options for the wicketkeeper-batter role -- KL Rahul, Jitesh Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Pant whenever he comes back after getting fit."

Raina further opined, "I prefer to have Sanju in the middle-order because he has a lot of shots. He plays those pick-up shots against pacers from the length. Hopefully, he performs well in the IPL too before the selectors sit down to select the team for the T20 World Cup."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-enjoys-on-field-battle-didnt-like-bowling-to-pujara-swann-on-engs-historic-test-series-win-in-india-679004">Kohli enjoys on-field battle, didn't like bowling to Pujara: Swann on ENG's historic Test series win in India</a>

"So, it is a good chance for Sanju against Afghanistan, and he can be our X-Factor in the World Cup,'' he added.

Samson has been a big name in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing the Rajasthan Royals (RR) since his debut barring the two seasons he played for the now defunct Delhi Daredevils (DD). He has&nbsp;3,888 runs in&nbsp;152 T20Is at a strike rate&nbsp;of&nbsp;137.19. However, he has not had much success in T20Is for India, scoring&nbsp;just 374 runs in 24 matches at a paltry average of 19.68.&nbsp;

In the recently concluded&nbsp;South Africa tour, Samson impressed one and all with his maiden ODI hundred in the series finale. He will now look to churn out runs in&nbsp;the shortest format as well, during the Afghanistan series, and seal a T20 WC spot at the earliest.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Sanju Samson needs to make the most of the opportunities in the three-match T20I series versus Afghanistan, which kicked off in India on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali.

Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina feels Sanju Samson needs to make the most of the opportunities in the three-match T20I series versus Afghanistan, which kicked off in India on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Raina feels Samson can be India's X-factor in the Men in Blue's 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, which will be held in June in West Indies and USA. Speaking to Sports18, Raina said, "Sanju has made a wonderful hundred against South Africa recently. He is definitely captain material as his mind is ticking all the time while on the field. We have some very good options for the wicketkeeper-batter role -- KL Rahul, Jitesh Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Pant whenever he comes back after getting fit." Raina further opined, "I prefer to have Sanju in the middle-order because he has a lot of shots. He plays those pick-up shots against pacers from the length. Hopefully, he performs well in the IPL too before the selectors sit down to select the team for the T20 World Cup." Also read: Kohli enjoys on-field battle, didn't like bowling to Pujara: Swann on ENG's historic Test series win in India "So, it is a good chance for Sanju against Afghanistan, and he can be our X-Factor in the World Cup,'' he added. Samson has been a big name in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing the Rajasthan Royals (RR) since his debut barring the two seasons he played for the now defunct Delhi Daredevils (DD). He has 3,888 runs in 152 T20Is at a strike rate of 137.19. However, he has not had much success in T20Is for India, scoring just 374 runs in 24 matches at a paltry average of 19.68. In the recently concluded South Africa tour, Samson impressed one and all with his maiden ODI hundred in the series finale. He will now look to churn out runs in the shortest format as well, during the Afghanistan series, and seal a T20 WC spot at the earliest. India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

IND vs AFG: He can be India's X-factor at T20 World Cup - Suresh Raina backs THIS star player to excel

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible 2024 T20 World Cup squad after the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both Rohit and Kohli have returned to the T20I setup, after the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, for the Men in Blue's final series in the run-up to this year's T20 WC in West Indies and USA, slated to be held in June.&nbsp;

With Rohit and Kohli's return, it is highly likely that now the duo will take part in the mega event in mid-2024. Gavaskar feels the form of the T20 WC-bound players will be closely monitored during IPL 2024. He stated that if Rohit and Kohli perform even in five out of the 14 matches, minimum for all franchises, in IPL 2024, it can lead to their selection in the T20 WC squad.&nbsp;

"I feel the IPL form will be crucial because that will be the current form. The Afghanistan series is in January. The World Cup is in June. So whoever has good form in March, April and May should be given consideration first, that performance should be given consideration. Along with that, I will also say that even if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have an ordinary IPL, but they score runs there, you cannot score runs in every match, but suppose they make good contributions in five out of 14 matches, you will have to take advantage of their experience, and you can probably pick them in the team," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-rohit-sharma-still-has-intensity-and-aggression-to-lead-india-to-wc-title-former-indian-stumper-678881">Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma still has intensity and aggression to lead India to WC title - Former Indian stumper</a>

<h2>'If Rohit&nbsp;and Virat are in the dugout, imagine&nbsp;the team's confidence'</h2>

Interestingly, Gavaskar went ahead and made a bold suggestion. He claimed that if the BCCI selectors do not include Rohit and Kohli in the T20 WC squad, they can still be part of the Indian dugout which will boost the team's confidence.&nbsp;"I will also say that, it's an out-of-the-box suggestion, you can take them along with the team as well, if you cannot pick them in the 14 (15), because of their experience. If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are in the dugout, imagine what will be the team's confidence," Gavaskar added.

At present, Rohit-led India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series opener versus Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Kohli has opted out of the first game due to personal reasons. He is expected to return for the final two T20Is.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible 2024 T20 World Cup squad after the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both Rohit and Kohli have returned to the T20I setup, after the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, for the Men in Blue's final series in the run-up to this year's T20 WC in West Indies and USA, slated to be held in June.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible 2024 T20 World Cup squad after the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both Rohit and Kohli have returned to the T20I setup, after the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, for the Men in Blue's final series in the run-up to this year's T20 WC in West Indies and USA, slated to be held in June. With Rohit and Kohli's return, it is highly likely that now the duo will take part in the mega event in mid-2024. Gavaskar feels the form of the T20 WC-bound players will be closely monitored during IPL 2024. He stated that if Rohit and Kohli perform even in five out of the 14 matches, minimum for all franchises, in IPL 2024, it can lead to their selection in the T20 WC squad. "I feel the IPL form will be crucial because that will be the current form. The Afghanistan series is in January. The World Cup is in June. So whoever has good form in March, April and May should be given consideration first, that performance should be given consideration. Along with that, I will also say that even if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have an ordinary IPL, but they score runs there, you cannot score runs in every match, but suppose they make good contributions in five out of 14 matches, you will have to take advantage of their experience, and you can probably pick them in the team," Gavaskar told Star Sports. Also read: Ind vs Afg: Rohit Sharma still has intensity and aggression to lead India to WC title - Former Indian stumper 'If Rohit and Virat are in the dugout, imagine the team's confidence' Interestingly, Gavaskar went ahead and made a bold suggestion. He claimed that if the BCCI selectors do not include Rohit and Kohli in the T20 WC squad, they can still be part of the Indian dugout which will boost the team's confidence. "I will also say that, it's an out-of-the-box suggestion, you can take them along with the team as well, if you cannot pick them in the 14 (15), because of their experience. If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are in the dugout, imagine what will be the team's confidence," Gavaskar added. At present, Rohit-led India is gearing up for the three-match T20I series opener versus Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11) in Mohali. Kohli has opted out of the first game due to personal reasons. He is expected to return for the final two T20Is.

‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion

On Sunday (Jan 7), the BCCI selectors announced India's squad for the upcoming home T20Is versus Afghanistan, starting on Jan 11 in Mohali. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headlined the squad announcement as the duo returned to the T20I setup after&nbsp;a gap of one year.&nbsp;Since India's semi-final exit in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, the two had not played a T20I but their return has bolstered India's plans for the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA.&nbsp;

With white-ball vice-captain Hardik Pandya nursing an injury, there are strong chances of hitman Rohit&nbsp;leading India in the forthcoming ICC event. Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth feels all signs suggest that Rohit will&nbsp;captain India in the upcoming edition of the T20 WC.

Srikkanth&nbsp;on his YouTube channel said, "All signs suggest that Rohit Sharma is going to lead India in T20 World Cup. That’s how it’s going. The very fact that he is made captain now,&nbsp;yes, Hardik Pandya is injured, Suryakumar Yadav, who was the deputy, is also not available due to injury. Jasprit Bumrah is also not there. Rohit Sharma will be the captain. See, Mumbai Indians making Hardik Pandya captain is the franchise’s choice. From the team selection, Rohit Sharma will only captain India in T20 World Cup in all probability. It’s moving toward that."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-selectors-looking-beyond-wicketkeeper-ishan-kishan-in-t20is-says-report-677687">BCCI selectors 'looking beyond' wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan in T20Is, says report</a>

<h2>'The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him'</h2>

Further, Srikkanth feels Rohit will play aggressively at the top as his hunger to win a World Cup as a captain remains unfulfilled despite India's dream run in the 2023 ODI WC at home.

"Rohit will play with total freedom in the IPL. He will play attacking cricket, like he did in the World Cup. The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him. If India had beaten Australia on November 19, things would have been different. He now wants to win a World Cup as a captain. A T20 World Cup is a World Cup at the end of the day. He would love to achieve it. Yes, 50-over World Cup is considered big, but if you win a T20 World Cup, you are still a World Cup-winning captain," Srikkanth added.

"At the end of the day, he wants to prove a point to himself. He seems to be determined to win a World Cup as captain," the 1983 ODI World Cup-winning member concluded.&nbsp;

Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a mark versus Afghanistan, which is India's last T20I series before the T20 WC in June. The series gets underway on Jan 11 in Mohali.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

On Sunday (Jan 7), the BCCI selectors announced India's squad for the upcoming home T20Is versus Afghanistan, starting on Jan 11 in Mohali. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headlined the squad announcement as the duo returned to the T20I setup after a gap of one year.

On Sunday (Jan 7), the BCCI selectors announced India's squad for the upcoming home T20Is versus Afghanistan, starting on Jan 11 in Mohali. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headlined the squad announcement as the duo returned to the T20I setup after a gap of one year. Since India's semi-final exit in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, the two had not played a T20I but their return has bolstered India's plans for the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA. With white-ball vice-captain Hardik Pandya nursing an injury, there are strong chances of hitman Rohit leading India in the forthcoming ICC event. Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth feels all signs suggest that Rohit will captain India in the upcoming edition of the T20 WC. Srikkanth on his YouTube channel said, "All signs suggest that Rohit Sharma is going to lead India in T20 World Cup. That’s how it’s going. The very fact that he is made captain now, yes, Hardik Pandya is injured, Suryakumar Yadav, who was the deputy, is also not available due to injury. Jasprit Bumrah is also not there. Rohit Sharma will be the captain. See, Mumbai Indians making Hardik Pandya captain is the franchise’s choice. From the team selection, Rohit Sharma will only captain India in T20 World Cup in all probability. It’s moving toward that." Also read: BCCI selectors 'looking beyond' wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan in T20Is, says report 'The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him' Further, Srikkanth feels Rohit will play aggressively at the top as his hunger to win a World Cup as a captain remains unfulfilled despite India's dream run in the 2023 ODI WC at home. "Rohit will play with total freedom in the IPL. He will play attacking cricket, like he did in the World Cup. The wound of losing the World Cup is not over for him. If India had beaten Australia on November 19, things would have been different. He now wants to win a World Cup as a captain. A T20 World Cup is a World Cup at the end of the day. He would love to achieve it. Yes, 50-over World Cup is considered big, but if you win a T20 World Cup, you are still a World Cup-winning captain," Srikkanth added. "At the end of the day, he wants to prove a point to himself. He seems to be determined to win a World Cup as captain," the 1983 ODI World Cup-winning member concluded. Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a mark versus Afghanistan, which is India's last T20I series before the T20 WC in June. The series gets underway on Jan 11 in Mohali. India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

All signs suggest Rohit Sharma will lead India in T20 WC, says former player Kris Srikkanth

The International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup is all set to kick off on June 1, 2023, as the expanded version will see 20 teams compete for the showpiece event. For the first time, the T20 World Cup will be hosted by the USA while West Indies remain the co-host having previously hosted the event in 2010 when England beat Australia in the final. India vs Pakistan will be the key attraction of the event while Uganda and the Canada will make their debut&nbsp;in the tournament.

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<h2>T20 World Cup to start from June 1</h2>

Neighbours USA and Canada will kick start the expanded version of the T20 World Cup on June 1 while India and Pakistan will meet in New York on June 9. The two arch-rivals will highlight the marquee event as they search for their second T20 World Cup success. There will be 55 matches during the T20 World Cup with nine venues in use across the continent. This is also the first time the T20 World Cup has been hosted by multiple countries. The final of the T20 World Cup will be played on June 29.

<h2>India’s schedule</h2>

The 2007 T20 World Cup champions will start their campaign against Ireland followed by the Pakistan clash in New York. India will then take on hosts USA and Canada on June 12 and 15 respectively before entering the Super 8 stage. Both India and Pakistan will be the favourites to make the Super 8 stage with three teams getting eliminated in the group stages.

India’s T20 World Cup schedule

India vs Ireland, June 5

India vs Pakistan, June 9

India vs USA, June 12

India vs Canada, June 15

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-t20is-bcci-face-selection-dilemma-as-captain-candidates-remain-unavailable-676852">IND vs AFG T20Is: BCCI face selection dilemma as captain candidates remain unavailable</a>

<h2>What is the format</h2>

Twenty teams will be divided into four groups of five teams each with every team playing four matches. The group winners and group runners-up will make the Super 8 stage of the competition. The eight teams will be divided into two groups of four teams each in the Super 8 stage. At this stage, every team will play three matches each with the group winner and group runners-up moving to the semifinals.

The T20 World Cup semi-finals will take place on June 26 and June 27 in Guyana and Trinidad respectively. Barbados will host the final on June 29.

Interestingly, 41 of the 55 matches will be played in the Caribbean Islands while the USA will host 14 matches. Both the semifinal and final will be played in the Caribbean Islands. England are the defending champions and hold the record for most titles along with hosts West Indies with two trophies in the cabinet.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup is all set to kick off on June 1, 2023, as the expanded version will see 20 teams compete for the showpiece event.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup is all set to kick off on June 1, 2023, as the expanded version will see 20 teams compete for the showpiece event. For the first time, the T20 World Cup will be hosted by the USA while West Indies remain the co-host having previously hosted the event in 2010 when England beat Australia in the final. India vs Pakistan will be the key attraction of the event while Uganda and the Canada will make their debut in the tournament. Get ready for the ultimate cricket carnival in the West Indies and the USA 🥁 Unveiling the fixtures for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 🗓️ 🤩#T20WorldCup | Details 👇 — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2024 × T20 World Cup to start from June 1 Neighbours USA and Canada will kick start the expanded version of the T20 World Cup on June 1 while India and Pakistan will meet in New York on June 9. The two arch-rivals will highlight the marquee event as they search for their second T20 World Cup success. There will be 55 matches during the T20 World Cup with nine venues in use across the continent. This is also the first time the T20 World Cup has been hosted by multiple countries. The final of the T20 World Cup will be played on June 29. India’s schedule The 2007 T20 World Cup champions will start their campaign against Ireland followed by the Pakistan clash in New York. India will then take on hosts USA and Canada on June 12 and 15 respectively before entering the Super 8 stage. Both India and Pakistan will be the favourites to make the Super 8 stage with three teams getting eliminated in the group stages. India’s T20 World Cup schedule India vs Ireland, June 5 India vs Pakistan, June 9 India vs USA, June 12 India vs Canada, June 15 ALSO READ | IND vs AFG T20Is: BCCI face selection dilemma as captain candidates remain unavailable What is the format Twenty teams will be divided into four groups of five teams each with every team playing four matches. The group winners and group runners-up will make the Super 8 stage of the competition. The eight teams will be divided into two groups of four teams each in the Super 8 stage. At this stage, every team will play three matches each with the group winner and group runners-up moving to the semifinals. The T20 World Cup semi-finals will take place on June 26 and June 27 in Guyana and Trinidad respectively. Barbados will host the final on June 29. Interestingly, 41 of the 55 matches will be played in the Caribbean Islands while the USA will host 14 matches. Both the semifinal and final will be played in the Caribbean Islands. England are the defending champions and hold the record for most titles along with hosts West Indies with two trophies in the cabinet.

T20 World Cup to kick-off on June 1 as India vs Pakistan headlines 20-nation global event in USA, WI

KL Rahul has had a great run in international cricket since his return from injury during the Asia Cup 2023 edition. He scored a hundred in his first appearance in the continental tournament, eventually won by India in Sri Lanka. He amassed 452 runs in the home ODI World Cup (with a century and two fifties) and scored a majestic 101 in India's just-concluded two-match Test series opener versus South Africa, in Centurion.

Rahul has said that he is open to being flexible in the batting order. Asked if he wants to comeback in the T20I setup, the wicketkeeper-batter stated that he simply wants to keep&nbsp;playing more and more and helping his team win&nbsp;games.

<h2>'Keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will'</h2>

After India's Cape Town Test win over SA, on Thursday (Jan 4), Rahul told Star Sports, "When they ask me to do any job, I just tell them 'keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will'. I want to play more and more matches. Unfortunately, because of injuries, I have missed a lot of matches, not just this injury, I have been injured quite a lot."

He further said, "Looking back, I am 31 now, but I have been playing since I was 22 for the country. But, if you look at it, I have not played a lot of matches. When Vijay and Shikhar were playing in Tests, and when Rohit and Shikhar were playing in ODI cricket, I had to wait for a lot of time. And when I got my chances, I got injured. So I have really missed out on a lot of cricket.

"I am in a mind space where I am open to playing anywhere, but I just want to play matches. I just want to do well for my country and go and enjoy my game in the middle," Rahul added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-pak-scg-test-hazlewoods-4-fer-stuns-pakistan-after-aamer-jamal-669-gives-visitors-slender-lead-676867">Aus vs Pak, SCG Test: Hazlewood's 4-for stuns Pakistan after Aamer Jamal 6/69 gives visitors slender lead</a>

In T20Is, Rahul has&nbsp;2,265 runs in&nbsp;72 matches at a strike rate of 139.12. He, however, managed only 128 runs in six games during India's&nbsp;T20 WC run in Australia in 2022. His strike rate was an ordinary&nbsp;120.75 and, hence, he has not been given a chance&nbsp;since then (along with seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli).

Given the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors are set to announce the Indian&nbsp;squad for the home T20Is versus Afghanistan,&nbsp;over the weekend, it remains to be seen if Rahul returns to the team. It has been widely reported that Rahul is keen to bat in the middle-order across formats. For that, he is even keen to play in the middle-order for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, with an eye on the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA.

Rahul has enough experience batting in the middle-order. He has excelled in that position&nbsp;in the ODIs and even did well in the recently concluded SA Tests.&nbsp;

He pointed out, "First time, I think I got that role in 2017 when we toured Sri Lanka. I got 2 to 3 chances, but I didn't really do well and after that I was out of the team. At No. 4 and No. 5, what I found the most difficult is, that when I go in and I am unsettled, everyone else around me is settled. They know how the pitch is playing and they know the tempo of the game. I have to go and try and adjust to that scenario. That was the hardest thing for me."

"I won't say playing against the new ball is easy. But, at times, the fast bowler will try a few things and you get a loose ball. But at No. 5, you rarely get something like that. So, it has helped me to keep myself a little bit calmer and adjust to the situation of the game. If I think that way, it becomes easy. If I am thinking about my own game, then it becomes difficult," he added.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if Rahul is included in the T20I setup going forward. Currently, he is in superb form in the longer formats.

KL Rahul has had a great run in international cricket since his return from injury during the Asia Cup 2023 edition. He scored a hundred in his first appearance in the continental tournament, eventually won by India in Sri Lanka.

KL Rahul has had a great run in international cricket since his return from injury during the Asia Cup 2023 edition. He scored a hundred in his first appearance in the continental tournament, eventually won by India in Sri Lanka. He amassed 452 runs in the home ODI World Cup (with a century and two fifties) and scored a majestic 101 in India's just-concluded two-match Test series opener versus South Africa, in Centurion. Rahul has said that he is open to being flexible in the batting order. Asked if he wants to comeback in the T20I setup, the wicketkeeper-batter stated that he simply wants to keep playing more and more and helping his team win games. 'Keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will' After India's Cape Town Test win over SA, on Thursday (Jan 4), Rahul told Star Sports, "When they ask me to do any job, I just tell them 'keep me in the XI, wherever you want to play me, I will'. I want to play more and more matches. Unfortunately, because of injuries, I have missed a lot of matches, not just this injury, I have been injured quite a lot." He further said, "Looking back, I am 31 now, but I have been playing since I was 22 for the country. But, if you look at it, I have not played a lot of matches. When Vijay and Shikhar were playing in Tests, and when Rohit and Shikhar were playing in ODI cricket, I had to wait for a lot of time. And when I got my chances, I got injured. So I have really missed out on a lot of cricket. "I am in a mind space where I am open to playing anywhere, but I just want to play matches. I just want to do well for my country and go and enjoy my game in the middle," Rahul added. Also read: Aus vs Pak, SCG Test: Hazlewood's 4-for stuns Pakistan after Aamer Jamal 6/69 gives visitors slender lead In T20Is, Rahul has 2,265 runs in 72 matches at a strike rate of 139.12. He, however, managed only 128 runs in six games during India's T20 WC run in Australia in 2022. His strike rate was an ordinary 120.75 and, hence, he has not been given a chance since then (along with seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli). Given the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors are set to announce the Indian squad for the home T20Is versus Afghanistan, over the weekend, it remains to be seen if Rahul returns to the team. It has been widely reported that Rahul is keen to bat in the middle-order across formats. For that, he is even keen to play in the middle-order for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, with an eye on the 2024 T20 WC in West Indies and USA. Rahul has enough experience batting in the middle-order. He has excelled in that position in the ODIs and even did well in the recently concluded SA Tests. He pointed out, "First time, I think I got that role in 2017 when we toured Sri Lanka. I got 2 to 3 chances, but I didn't really do well and after that I was out of the team. At No. 4 and No. 5, what I found the most difficult is, that when I go in and I am unsettled, everyone else around me is settled. They know how the pitch is playing and they know the tempo of the game. I have to go and try and adjust to that scenario. That was the hardest thing for me." "I won't say playing against the new ball is easy. But, at times, the fast bowler will try a few things and you get a loose ball. But at No. 5, you rarely get something like that. So, it has helped me to keep myself a little bit calmer and adjust to the situation of the game. If I think that way, it becomes easy. If I am thinking about my own game, then it becomes difficult," he added. It will be interesting to see if Rahul is included in the T20I setup going forward. Currently, he is in superb form in the longer formats.

'Keep me in playing XI, ready to be flexible': KL Rahul eager to return to T20I ahead of World Cup

West Indies beat England by four wickets in the fifth and final T20I, at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad, to clinch the five-match series 3-2. The hosts had a 2-0 lead before Jos Buttler-led England staged a strong comeback to push the series into the finale with a 2-2 scoreline but eventually lost the final game by four wickets courtesy of&nbsp;Gudakesh Motie's three-fer and Shai Hope's cautious 43*.

Opting to bowl first, the Rovman Powell-led West Indies were on top from the word go. England's innings never got going as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals and never got the late push they desired. Phil Salt, who made heads turn with two successive tons, fell for a 22-ball 38 and apart from him only Liam Livingstone (28) and Moeen Ali (21) got starts as England were dismissed for 132 in 19.3 overs. Player-of-the-Match Motie stood out with 3 for 24 whereas Akeal Hosein, Jason Holder and Andre Russell accounted for two wickets apiece.&nbsp;

In reply, the Windies also had some soft dismissals but the small target enabled them to play&nbsp;smart cricket and got over the finish line. Hope made a run-a-ball 43 and was accompanied by Sherfane Rutherford (30 off 24 balls) and Johnson Charles' 22-ball 27 as the hosts won the game despite taking it to the last over. The home side clinched the series in 19.2 overs to strengthen their preparations for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and the USA.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-praises-youngsters-after-samson-ton-sets-up-odi-series-win-672319">Rahul praises youngsters after Samson ton sets up ODI series win</a>

After the game, Powell said at the post-match presentation, "Special thanks to the crowd of Trinidad and Tobago. We spent some time yesterday. We had some meetings. The last two games, the guys didn't execute. We always knew Hope would be an important batter in this wicket. Credit to the groundsmen across the series. We as players are unhappy so many times. Motie was very good. Was good to mix experience with youth. I have a good bunch of guys around me. I try to lead from the front and they respect me so much."

Meanwhile, Buttler said, "The conditions were different. 160 could have been a good score to defend. We did well to hang in there. Had we got few more runs to play, could have been different. He has had a brilliant series. As a team, we would take the learnings. Everyone got a hang of the new rule pretty quickly. The breeze plays a big part here. We have had a fantastic series, would have loved to win it."

In 2023, the West Indies have&nbsp;won the T20I series against South Africa, India&nbsp;and&nbsp;England -- with the last two coming at home -- which will boost their confidence going into next year's ICC event.&nbsp;

West Indies beat England by four wickets in the fifth and final T20I, at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad, to clinch the five-match series 3-2. The hosts had a 2-0 lead before Jos Buttler-led England staged a strong comeback to push the series into the finale with a 2-2 scoreline but eventually lost the final game by four wickets courtesy of Gudakesh Motie's three-fer and Shai Hope's cautious 43*.

West Indies beat England by four wickets in the fifth and final T20I, at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad, to clinch the five-match series 3-2. The hosts had a 2-0 lead before Jos Buttler-led England staged a strong comeback to push the series into the finale with a 2-2 scoreline but eventually lost the final game by four wickets courtesy of Gudakesh Motie's three-fer and Shai Hope's cautious 43*. Opting to bowl first, the Rovman Powell-led West Indies were on top from the word go. England's innings never got going as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals and never got the late push they desired. Phil Salt, who made heads turn with two successive tons, fell for a 22-ball 38 and apart from him only Liam Livingstone (28) and Moeen Ali (21) got starts as England were dismissed for 132 in 19.3 overs. Player-of-the-Match Motie stood out with 3 for 24 whereas Akeal Hosein, Jason Holder and Andre Russell accounted for two wickets apiece. In reply, the Windies also had some soft dismissals but the small target enabled them to play smart cricket and got over the finish line. Hope made a run-a-ball 43 and was accompanied by Sherfane Rutherford (30 off 24 balls) and Johnson Charles' 22-ball 27 as the hosts won the game despite taking it to the last over. The home side clinched the series in 19.2 overs to strengthen their preparations for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and the USA. Also read: Rahul praises youngsters after Samson ton sets up ODI series win After the game, Powell said at the post-match presentation, "Special thanks to the crowd of Trinidad and Tobago. We spent some time yesterday. We had some meetings. The last two games, the guys didn't execute. We always knew Hope would be an important batter in this wicket. Credit to the groundsmen across the series. We as players are unhappy so many times. Motie was very good. Was good to mix experience with youth. I have a good bunch of guys around me. I try to lead from the front and they respect me so much." Meanwhile, Buttler said, "The conditions were different. 160 could have been a good score to defend. We did well to hang in there. Had we got few more runs to play, could have been different. He has had a brilliant series. As a team, we would take the learnings. Everyone got a hang of the new rule pretty quickly. The breeze plays a big part here. We have had a fantastic series, would have loved to win it." In 2023, the West Indies have won the T20I series against South Africa, India and England -- with the last two coming at home -- which will boost their confidence going into next year's ICC event.

WI vs Eng, 5th T20I: Shai Hope, Gudakesh Motie star in hosts' 4-wicket win, claim series 3-2

Zimbabwe coach Dave Houghton has resigned after the country's failure to reach next year's T20 World Cup, the national board said Wednesday.

"The Zimbabwe Cricket Board has accepted Dave Houghton's resignation from his position as head coach of the Zimbabwe senior men's national team with immediate effect," the board said in a statement.

"Houghton said he had 'lost the change room' after 18 months in charge and felt that a 'new voice' was needed to take the team forward," the statement added.

His resignation letter was sent just ahead of a board meeting Wednesday to look into the World Cup campaign. Zimbabwe lost to Namibia and Uganda at a recent qualifying tournament.

Zimbabwe have also just been beaten in a limited overs series against Ireland.

Houghton, 66, replaced Lalchand Rajput as Zimbabwe coach in June last year after six one-day and Twenty20 losses at home to Afghanistan.

The board said he would be assigned to a "new role within the organisation".

"Dave will always be a legend of our game and it is with regret that he felt the change room needed a new voice," said board chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani.

"While the past few months have been disappointing as we failed to qualify for both the 50-over World Cup and the T20 World Cup, they should not obscure all the work he has done over the past year to rebuild the foundations for long-term success."

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Houghton, who captained the team in their first four Test matches and 17 one-day internationals, commented: "I have always had Zimbabwe cricket at heart and, though my coaching of the national team comes to an end, I would love to be involved in other areas."&nbsp;

"The talent base in Zimbabwe is enormous. How we move players from talented to performing well on the international stage is a great project to be involved in."

The board said an interim management team would be named for a tour to Sri Lanka in January.

It has also appointed a committee that has been given three weeks to look into the World Cup failures and the national structure.

Zimbabwe coach Dave Houghton has resigned after the country's failure to reach next year's T20 World Cup, the national board said Wednesday. "The Zimbabwe Cricket Board has accepted Dave Houghton's resignation from his position as head coach of the Zimbabwe senior men's national team with immediate effect," the board said in a statement.

Zimbabwe coach Dave Houghton has resigned after the country's failure to reach next year's T20 World Cup, the national board said Wednesday. "The Zimbabwe Cricket Board has accepted Dave Houghton's resignation from his position as head coach of the Zimbabwe senior men's national team with immediate effect," the board said in a statement. "Houghton said he had 'lost the change room' after 18 months in charge and felt that a 'new voice' was needed to take the team forward," the statement added. His resignation letter was sent just ahead of a board meeting Wednesday to look into the World Cup campaign. Zimbabwe lost to Namibia and Uganda at a recent qualifying tournament. Zimbabwe have also just been beaten in a limited overs series against Ireland. Houghton, 66, replaced Lalchand Rajput as Zimbabwe coach in June last year after six one-day and Twenty20 losses at home to Afghanistan. The board said he would be assigned to a "new role within the organisation". "Dave will always be a legend of our game and it is with regret that he felt the change room needed a new voice," said board chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani. "While the past few months have been disappointing as we failed to qualify for both the 50-over World Cup and the T20 World Cup, they should not obscure all the work he has done over the past year to rebuild the foundations for long-term success." ALSO READ | AUS vs PAK: Blow to Pakistan as seamer Khurram Shahzad doubtful for Melbourne Test Houghton, who captained the team in their first four Test matches and 17 one-day internationals, commented: "I have always had Zimbabwe cricket at heart and, though my coaching of the national team comes to an end, I would love to be involved in other areas." "The talent base in Zimbabwe is enormous. How we move players from talented to performing well on the international stage is a great project to be involved in." The board said an interim management team would be named for a tour to Sri Lanka in January. It has also appointed a committee that has been given three weeks to look into the World Cup failures and the national structure.

Zimbabwe coach Dave Houghton quits after T20 World Cup failure

A couple off Glenn Maxwell's willow led the Pat Cummins-led Australia to complete the 241-run chase with ease during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, in Ahmedabad, versus India on Nov 19. With the loss, Rohit Sharma-led India choked once again in an ICC knockout game. Thus, they remain without an ICC title since their 2013 Champions Trophy win.

While the gap has widened&nbsp;since India's last ICC triumph, there is not much time left for the next major ICC event in men's cricket. The upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup will take place in June 2024, in the West Indies and the USA. Thus, the one-time winners India are already running against time to win an ICC championship with the T20 WC less than six months away.

<h2>Explained: How India have problems aplenty for next T20 WC</h2>

Firstly, it is safe to say T20Is are not India's strongest format. They might be the No. 1 ranked side at present, however, a numero uno ranking does not guarantee success at a major event (Note, India played the home ODI World Cup as the No. 1 side). If we look at India's defeats in the last few knockout games in the T20 WC, it has been due to their conservative batting (recall the 2014 final versus Sri Lanka and the most recent semi-final defeat against England in 2022).

The Men in Blue remain a top-heavy side. Since 2016, it has predominantly been Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul or Shikhar Dhawan making the bulk of their runs.&nbsp;However, even their famed top-order's future in the format remains a mystery (of course, barring Dhawan's). If one focuses on India's middle and lower order, they have two good options in Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant. However, one is heavily injury-prone and the other will return to competitive cricket only a few months before the T20 WC, i.e. during IPL 2014 after a major car crash in late 2022.

All is not lost despite the above-mentioned factors. Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh's recent inclusion has been a breath of fresh air. However, they need more batting depth. In the Australia home series -- which ended early this month -- and the ongoing South Africa series, in the African nation, India have batters only till No. 7. They cannot do that, which only adds to their conservative style. They are one batter short. Thus, more all-rounders are a need of the hour. This, in turn, might hurt their bowling,&nbsp;which they have been reluctant to do. In addition, the inability of India's top batters to contribute with a few overs only adds to their bowling shortage.

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Above all, the biggest issue remains about leadership. Rohit has not played a T20I tie since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss. Since then, Hardik has served as the temporary captain. While Hardik's fitness remains a story in itself, Rohit's future as a T20I captain is also a well-kept secret. On Wednesday (Dec 13), Hitman hinted at his T20 WC participation while acknowledging fans for their relentless support during the ODI WC.&nbsp;

In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Rohit said, "People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize."

If Rohit returns to lead, it will be interesting to see what transpires for Kohli in&nbsp;T20Is. Reports have been flowing in that the BCCI selectors are in favour of having a more dynamic batter at No. 3 (i.e., Ishan Kishan). Nonetheless, are they bold enough to take back Rohit but drop Kohli, who has the most runs in the format and T20 WC history? If the selectors and team management bring both Kohli and Rohit, what will be the future for the plethora of youngsters who have been regulars in the format since late 2022? India need clarity at the earliest with just a limited number of games left (to be precise, just four) before their T20 WC campaign gets underway.&nbsp;

If the Kohli-Rohit debate gets settled, then only India can finalise their batting slot. 
 
Moreover, problems will multiply when IPL 2024 starts. Not every batter bats at the same spot for India and for their respective franchises. India certainly need to address this concern as well. Reports have suggested that Rahul is looking to bat in the middle for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Will the LSG franchise comply? There are several pertaining questions with limited games and time in hand.&nbsp;

Lastly, BCCI never had a plan for the T20 WC -- having all their focus towards the home ODI WC. Hence, even though Dravid had an almost flawless end to his first stint as head coach, he has been asked to continue only because there was never one eye on the next coach (coupled with a handful of months between the ODI and T20 WC). Thus, will Dravid &amp; Co. be bold enough to challenge the national side to change their T20I culture so late?

At present, there are several questions with no certain answer. Hence, India have problems aplenty ahead of their upcoming T20 WC run.&nbsp;

A couple off Glenn Maxwell's willow led the Pat Cummins-led Australia to complete the 241-run chase with ease during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, in Ahmedabad, versus India on Nov 19.

A couple off Glenn Maxwell's willow led the Pat Cummins-led Australia to complete the 241-run chase with ease during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, in Ahmedabad, versus India on Nov 19. With the loss, Rohit Sharma-led India choked once again in an ICC knockout game. Thus, they remain without an ICC title since their 2013 Champions Trophy win. While the gap has widened since India's last ICC triumph, there is not much time left for the next major ICC event in men's cricket. The upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup will take place in June 2024, in the West Indies and the USA. Thus, the one-time winners India are already running against time to win an ICC championship with the T20 WC less than six months away. Explained: How India have problems aplenty for next T20 WC Firstly, it is safe to say T20Is are not India's strongest format. They might be the No. 1 ranked side at present, however, a numero uno ranking does not guarantee success at a major event (Note, India played the home ODI World Cup as the No. 1 side). If we look at India's defeats in the last few knockout games in the T20 WC, it has been due to their conservative batting (recall the 2014 final versus Sri Lanka and the most recent semi-final defeat against England in 2022). The Men in Blue remain a top-heavy side. Since 2016, it has predominantly been Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul or Shikhar Dhawan making the bulk of their runs. However, even their famed top-order's future in the format remains a mystery (of course, barring Dhawan's). If one focuses on India's middle and lower order, they have two good options in Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant. However, one is heavily injury-prone and the other will return to competitive cricket only a few months before the T20 WC, i.e. during IPL 2014 after a major car crash in late 2022. All is not lost despite the above-mentioned factors. Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh's recent inclusion has been a breath of fresh air. However, they need more batting depth. In the Australia home series -- which ended early this month -- and the ongoing South Africa series, in the African nation, India have batters only till No. 7. They cannot do that, which only adds to their conservative style. They are one batter short. Thus, more all-rounders are a need of the hour. This, in turn, might hurt their bowling, which they have been reluctant to do. In addition, the inability of India's top batters to contribute with a few overs only adds to their bowling shortage. Also read: What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED Above all, the biggest issue remains about leadership. Rohit has not played a T20I tie since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss. Since then, Hardik has served as the temporary captain. While Hardik's fitness remains a story in itself, Rohit's future as a T20I captain is also a well-kept secret. On Wednesday (Dec 13), Hitman hinted at his T20 WC participation while acknowledging fans for their relentless support during the ODI WC. In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Rohit said, "People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize." If Rohit returns to lead, it will be interesting to see what transpires for Kohli in T20Is. Reports have been flowing in that the BCCI selectors are in favour of having a more dynamic batter at No. 3 (i.e., Ishan Kishan). Nonetheless, are they bold enough to take back Rohit but drop Kohli, who has the most runs in the format and T20 WC history? If the selectors and team management bring both Kohli and Rohit, what will be the future for the plethora of youngsters who have been regulars in the format since late 2022? India need clarity at the earliest with just a limited number of games left (to be precise, just four) before their T20 WC campaign gets underway. If the Kohli-Rohit debate gets settled, then only India can finalise their batting slot. Moreover, problems will multiply when IPL 2024 starts. Not every batter bats at the same spot for India and for their respective franchises. India certainly need to address this concern as well. Reports have suggested that Rahul is looking to bat in the middle for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Will the LSG franchise comply? There are several pertaining questions with limited games and time in hand. Lastly, BCCI never had a plan for the T20 WC -- having all their focus towards the home ODI WC. Hence, even though Dravid had an almost flawless end to his first stint as head coach, he has been asked to continue only because there was never one eye on the next coach (coupled with a handful of months between the ODI and T20 WC). Thus, will Dravid & Co. be bold enough to challenge the national side to change their T20I culture so late? At present, there are several questions with no certain answer. Hence, India have problems aplenty ahead of their upcoming T20 WC run.

Explained | How Team India has problems aplenty for 2024 T20 World Cup

After England's disastrous run in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition held in India,&nbsp;all-rounder Moeen Ali has backed the Jos Buttler-led English camp to defend their T20 World Cup title in the upcoming 2024 edition. In the first half of next year, the T20 WC will be held in the West Indies and the USA. England won the last edition, which was held in Australia in 2022. Recently, the national side had a woeful run in the ODI WC, entering as the defending champions and one of the favourites, where they failed to enter the semi-finals and ended seventh.&nbsp;

Moeen believes England is a better T20I side than in ODIs and has firmly backed them to lift the title next year. Speaking to Gulf News on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament, he said, "We want to try and win again. I feel we are a better Twenty20 side. I’m sure we will come back stronger."

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Reflecting on England's poor run in the ODI WC, Moeen stated, "We didn’t play well throughout the World Cup. The batters were out of form and it happens in cricket. We’ve been so good over a long period now, but it is just one of those things that we just didn’t perform. It is a World Cup and a special one where all teams were good, but we weren’t just good."

England started the ODI WC with a loss to New Zealand and while they recovered with a big win over Bangladesh, everything went downhill from there on. They lost to Australia, India, South Africa, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka before ending their campaign with two back-to-back wins, over the Netherlands and Pakistan respectively.

England are the second-ranked side in T20Is currently. They will look to make a strong statement in the upcoming T20 WC in June 2024. At present, Buttler &amp; Co. are in the West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is.&nbsp;

After England's disastrous run in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition held in India, all-rounder Moeen Ali has backed the Jos Buttler-led English camp to defend their T20 World Cup title in the upcoming 2024 edition.

After England's disastrous run in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition held in India, all-rounder Moeen Ali has backed the Jos Buttler-led English camp to defend their T20 World Cup title in the upcoming 2024 edition. In the first half of next year, the T20 WC will be held in the West Indies and the USA. England won the last edition, which was held in Australia in 2022. Recently, the national side had a woeful run in the ODI WC, entering as the defending champions and one of the favourites, where they failed to enter the semi-finals and ended seventh. Moeen believes England is a better T20I side than in ODIs and has firmly backed them to lift the title next year. Speaking to Gulf News on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament, he said, "We want to try and win again. I feel we are a better Twenty20 side. I’m sure we will come back stronger." Also read: Started losing vision...: AB de Villiers reveals shocking details behind early international retirement Reflecting on England's poor run in the ODI WC, Moeen stated, "We didn’t play well throughout the World Cup. The batters were out of form and it happens in cricket. We’ve been so good over a long period now, but it is just one of those things that we just didn’t perform. It is a World Cup and a special one where all teams were good, but we weren’t just good." England started the ODI WC with a loss to New Zealand and while they recovered with a big win over Bangladesh, everything went downhill from there on. They lost to Australia, India, South Africa, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka before ending their campaign with two back-to-back wins, over the Netherlands and Pakistan respectively. England are the second-ranked side in T20Is currently. They will look to make a strong statement in the upcoming T20 WC in June 2024. At present, Buttler & Co. are in the West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is.

'We are...': All-rounder Moeen Ali backs England to defend T20 World Cup title in 2024

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.

Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June.&nbsp;

"If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily.

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It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury,&nbsp;during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1).&nbsp;

Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation.

Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.&nbsp;

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi.

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June. "If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily. Also read: Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury, during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1). Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation. Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.

'If you want to pick me for T20 WC 2024...: What Rohit told BCCI officials and selectors - Report

India beat Australia by six runs in defence of 160/8 in the fifth and final T20I on Sunday (Dec 3) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After being asked to bat first, India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 53, Jitesh Sharma's 24 (16) and Axar Patel's 21-ball 31 to post a moderate total. In reply, Australia managed 154 for 8 with Ben McDermott top-scoring with 54.

In the last over, India had only 10 runs to defend with skipper Matthew Wade in the middle. Stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav gave the ball to Arshdeep Singh, who wasn't economical till then having conceded 37 in his first three overs while&nbsp;claiming a wicket. SKY trusted Arshdeep as he&nbsp;is known for his death-over skills. The young pacer kept his cool and delivered in a crunch situation, ending with 0,0,W,1,1,1.

Former Indian cricketer Abhishek Nayar lauded the 24-year-old's body language and his thinking, claiming that the speedster seemed 'in control'.

While reviewing the game at JioCinema, Nayar said, "He (Arshdeep) had conceded 37 runs in his first three overs, so he would have been under pressure, and he was not executing his yorkers. The most impressive thing for me was the short ball he used on the first ball."

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The ex-Mumbai Indians (MI) player further opined, "You saw Wade getting quite angry. He felt it was a wide. He challenged Wade's mentality because sitting outside too, you were expecting him to bowl a yorker. From Arshdeep's body language and his thinking, it seemed like he was in control."

"We were watching from outside, Suryakumar Yadav was asking the entire audience to back Arshdeep because it's not easy. We have seen how Wade has batted, and he was looking quite confident as well. 10 runs were needed, they were just one hit away, but the way Arshdeep executed the yorkers, especially against Wade, I believe he showed a lot of character,"&nbsp;Nayar added.

Arshdeep will now shift his focus on the forthcoming away T20Is versus South Africa, commencing on Dec 10 at&nbsp;Kingsmead, Durban. With T20 World Cup 2024 being the primary focus, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer will be desperate to maintain consistency and book his spot in the&nbsp;WC squad. The mega event is slated to be held in June, in West Indies and USA.

India beat Australia by six runs in defence of 160/8 in the fifth and final T20I on Sunday (Dec 3) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After being asked to bat first, India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 53, Jitesh Sharma's 24 (16) and Axar Patel's 21-ball 31 to post a moderate total.

India beat Australia by six runs in defence of 160/8 in the fifth and final T20I on Sunday (Dec 3) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After being asked to bat first, India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 53, Jitesh Sharma's 24 (16) and Axar Patel's 21-ball 31 to post a moderate total. In reply, Australia managed 154 for 8 with Ben McDermott top-scoring with 54. In the last over, India had only 10 runs to defend with skipper Matthew Wade in the middle. Stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav gave the ball to Arshdeep Singh, who wasn't economical till then having conceded 37 in his first three overs while claiming a wicket. SKY trusted Arshdeep as he is known for his death-over skills. The young pacer kept his cool and delivered in a crunch situation, ending with 0,0,W,1,1,1. Former Indian cricketer Abhishek Nayar lauded the 24-year-old's body language and his thinking, claiming that the speedster seemed 'in control'. While reviewing the game at JioCinema, Nayar said, "He (Arshdeep) had conceded 37 runs in his first three overs, so he would have been under pressure, and he was not executing his yorkers. The most impressive thing for me was the short ball he used on the first ball." Also read: David Warner is a hero, no one is perfect: Usman Khawaja hits back at Mitchell Johnson's remark The ex-Mumbai Indians (MI) player further opined, "You saw Wade getting quite angry. He felt it was a wide. He challenged Wade's mentality because sitting outside too, you were expecting him to bowl a yorker. From Arshdeep's body language and his thinking, it seemed like he was in control." "We were watching from outside, Suryakumar Yadav was asking the entire audience to back Arshdeep because it's not easy. We have seen how Wade has batted, and he was looking quite confident as well. 10 runs were needed, they were just one hit away, but the way Arshdeep executed the yorkers, especially against Wade, I believe he showed a lot of character," Nayar added. Arshdeep will now shift his focus on the forthcoming away T20Is versus South Africa, commencing on Dec 10 at Kingsmead, Durban. With T20 World Cup 2024 being the primary focus, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer will be desperate to maintain consistency and book his spot in the WC squad. The mega event is slated to be held in June, in West Indies and USA.

5th T20I - 'Arshdeep Singh showed a lot of character': Ex-India cricketer lauds pacer for last-over heroics

India wrapped up the home five-match T20I series by winning the final game by six runs at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (Dec 3). Having already won the series with an unassailable 3-1 lead after the fourth T20I, Suryakumar Yadav-led India beat Matthew Wade's Australia by a whisker in defence of 160/8.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 53 and vital runs from Jitesh Sharma and Axar Patel to post 160/8. In reply,&nbsp;Ben McDermott top-scored for the Aussies with a fine 54 but it was not enough.&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh defended 10 runs in the last over, with visitors managing&nbsp;154/8,&nbsp;to take his side to a 4-1 series triumph. After the series, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined on India's performance and made a big claim with regard to the Men in Blue's potential squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA.

Chopra feels there might be a toss-up between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill for India's T20 WC squad. Gaikwad ended as the top-scorer in the five T20Is, scoring&nbsp;223 runs&nbsp;at an average of 55.75 with a best of 123*.&nbsp;

Chopra lauded Gaikwad for being among runs and said on his YouTube channel, "Ruturaj Gaikwad - he said that he is there. Ruturaj is going to have stiff competition because Shubman Gill also plays like that. Rohit Sharma will also come now. So suddenly you will feel that you aren't even able to pick two among the three. So these runs were necessary."

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The former Indian cricketer further advised Gaikwad and added, "Keep scoring runs so that you are part of the squad when the World Cup comes. From his point of view, it's important that he remains a part of the squad. It might be a direct shoot-out between him and Shubman Gill. You might keep one of them as both do similar things in T20 cricket."

Gill had a good&nbsp;run in the ODI World Cup at home, ending with&nbsp;354 runs in nine games, at an average of&nbsp;44.25 with four fifties. He will face&nbsp;stiff competition from Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan at the top-order in India's T20I setup.

India’s T20I squad for SA tour

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Deepak Chahar.

India wrapped up the home five-match T20I series by winning the final game by six runs at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (Dec 3). Having already won the series with an unassailable 3-1 lead after the fourth T20I, Suryakumar Yadav-led India beat Matthew Wade's Australia by a whisker in defence of 160/8.

India wrapped up the home five-match T20I series by winning the final game by six runs at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (Dec 3). Having already won the series with an unassailable 3-1 lead after the fourth T20I, Suryakumar Yadav-led India beat Matthew Wade's Australia by a whisker in defence of 160/8. Being asked to bat first, India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 53 and vital runs from Jitesh Sharma and Axar Patel to post 160/8. In reply, Ben McDermott top-scored for the Aussies with a fine 54 but it was not enough. Arshdeep Singh defended 10 runs in the last over, with visitors managing 154/8, to take his side to a 4-1 series triumph. After the series, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined on India's performance and made a big claim with regard to the Men in Blue's potential squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA. Chopra feels there might be a toss-up between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill for India's T20 WC squad. Gaikwad ended as the top-scorer in the five T20Is, scoring 223 runs at an average of 55.75 with a best of 123*. Chopra lauded Gaikwad for being among runs and said on his YouTube channel, "Ruturaj Gaikwad - he said that he is there. Ruturaj is going to have stiff competition because Shubman Gill also plays like that. Rohit Sharma will also come now. So suddenly you will feel that you aren't even able to pick two among the three. So these runs were necessary." Also read: 5th T20I: Mukesh, Iyer star in close win for India despite last-over drama, win series 4-1 The former Indian cricketer further advised Gaikwad and added, "Keep scoring runs so that you are part of the squad when the World Cup comes. From his point of view, it's important that he remains a part of the squad. It might be a direct shoot-out between him and Shubman Gill. You might keep one of them as both do similar things in T20 cricket." Gill had a good run in the ODI World Cup at home, ending with 354 runs in nine games, at an average of 44.25 with four fifties. He will face stiff competition from Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan at the top-order in India's T20I setup. India’s T20I squad for SA tour Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Deepak Chahar.

Might be a toss-up between Gaikwad and Gill for T20 World Cup 2024 spot, feels ex-Indian opener

On Wednesday (Nov 29), Rahul Dravid accepted the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his&nbsp;contract and continue as India's head coach, at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies. Dravid's first stint lasted till India's home ODI World Cup, where they ended as runners-up, but the board was eager to regain his services going ahead and offered an extended contract, which was eventually extended by the former Indian captain. Moreover, his support staff --&nbsp;namely, Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach) and T Dilip (fielding coach) -- also saw their contracts being extended.&nbsp;

In a statement, Dravid reacted to accepting BCCI's offer and acknowledged the support of his family. He said, "I thank the BCCI and the Office Bearers for placing their trust in me, endorsing my vision, and providing support during this period. The demands of this role necessitate considerable time away from home, and I deeply appreciate my family's sacrifices and support. Their instrumental role behind the scenes has been invaluable. As we embrace new challenges post the World Cup, we remain committed to the pursuit of excellence."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-agrees-to-contract-extension-to-continue-as-india-head-coach-at-least-till-2024-t20-world-cup-664211">Rahul Dravid agrees to contract extension, to continue as India head coach at least till 2024 T20 World Cup</a>

He further opined, "The last two years with Team India have been thoroughly memorable. Together, we have witnessed the highs and lows, and throughout this journey, the support and camaraderie within the group have been phenomenal."

Dravid added, "I am genuinely proud of the culture we have set in the dressing room. It's a culture that stands resilient, whether in moments of triumph or adversity. The skills and talent that our team possesses are phenomenal, and what we've stressed is following the right process and sticking to our preparations, which has had a direct impact on the overall result."

Under Dravid, India won the Asia Cup 2023 edition, reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and ended as the runners-up in the home ODI WC and WTC 2021-23 cycle. His second stint with get underway with India's all-format tour of South Africa where they play three T20Is and equal number of ODIs as well as two Tests. The tenure of his second term isn't known but it will surely last till the 2024 T20 WC, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

On Wednesday (Nov 29), Rahul Dravid accepted the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his contract and continue as India's head coach, at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies.

On Wednesday (Nov 29), Rahul Dravid accepted the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his contract and continue as India's head coach, at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies. Dravid's first stint lasted till India's home ODI World Cup, where they ended as runners-up, but the board was eager to regain his services going ahead and offered an extended contract, which was eventually extended by the former Indian captain. Moreover, his support staff -- namely, Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach) and T Dilip (fielding coach) -- also saw their contracts being extended. In a statement, Dravid reacted to accepting BCCI's offer and acknowledged the support of his family. He said, "I thank the BCCI and the Office Bearers for placing their trust in me, endorsing my vision, and providing support during this period. The demands of this role necessitate considerable time away from home, and I deeply appreciate my family's sacrifices and support. Their instrumental role behind the scenes has been invaluable. As we embrace new challenges post the World Cup, we remain committed to the pursuit of excellence." Also read: Rahul Dravid agrees to contract extension, to continue as India head coach at least till 2024 T20 World Cup He further opined, "The last two years with Team India have been thoroughly memorable. Together, we have witnessed the highs and lows, and throughout this journey, the support and camaraderie within the group have been phenomenal." Dravid added, "I am genuinely proud of the culture we have set in the dressing room. It's a culture that stands resilient, whether in moments of triumph or adversity. The skills and talent that our team possesses are phenomenal, and what we've stressed is following the right process and sticking to our preparations, which has had a direct impact on the overall result." Under Dravid, India won the Asia Cup 2023 edition, reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and ended as the runners-up in the home ODI WC and WTC 2021-23 cycle. His second stint with get underway with India's all-format tour of South Africa where they play three T20Is and equal number of ODIs as well as two Tests. The tenure of his second term isn't known but it will surely last till the 2024 T20 WC, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

Deeply appreciate my family's sacrifices: Rahul Dravid after agreeing to continue as India head coach

Rahul Dravid is set to continue as India's head coach after accepting the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his contract. It is to be noted that Dravid's contract was till the 2023 ODI World Cup, where India ended as runners-up. However, the former Indian captain will continue to serve as the head coach at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup to be held early next year in the West Indies and USA. The contracts of the support staff -- who joined&nbsp;during&nbsp;Dravid's first stint&nbsp;namely, Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach) and T Dilip (fielding coach) -- have been extended as well.

It is to be noted that Dravid took over as India men's head coach in late 2021 after Ravi Shastri's tenure ended. Under him, India remained a dominant force at home across formats and ended as runners-up in the WTC 2023 cycle and the home ODI WC (winning ten games on the trot to enter the final, where they lost to Australia by six wickets). In addition, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 WC in Australia.&nbsp;

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, BCCI has been impressed with Dravid's working style. They were eager to continue with him in a bid to ensure continuity to the structure he had put in place since late 2021. The board feared that it might otherwise get disrupted under a new coach.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-offers-contract-extension-to-head-coach-rahul-dravid-says-report-664121">BCCI offers Rahul Dravid contract extension as head coach, says report</a>

Dravid's first assignment in his second stint as head coach will kick off with India's all-format tour of South Africa, starting early next month. India will play three T20Is and an equal number of ODIs before wrapping up the tour with two Tests. Soon after, the Indian team will shift their focus to the five Tests versus Ben Stokes-led England at home before the commencement of the T20 WC in June.

While Dravid has been criticised and lauded for his efforts so far as India's coach, he will look to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought in the upcoming T20 WC. India have got closer to the title during his first stint, thus, the former Indian cricketer will be desperate to end the global trophy drought. The exact duration of his second term isn't known yet.

Rahul Dravid is set to continue as India's head coach after accepting the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his contract. It is to be noted that Dravid's contract was till the 2023 ODI World Cup, where India ended as runners-up.

Rahul Dravid is set to continue as India's head coach after accepting the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his contract. It is to be noted that Dravid's contract was till the 2023 ODI World Cup, where India ended as runners-up. However, the former Indian captain will continue to serve as the head coach at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup to be held early next year in the West Indies and USA. The contracts of the support staff -- who joined during Dravid's first stint namely, Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach) and T Dilip (fielding coach) -- have been extended as well. It is to be noted that Dravid took over as India men's head coach in late 2021 after Ravi Shastri's tenure ended. Under him, India remained a dominant force at home across formats and ended as runners-up in the WTC 2023 cycle and the home ODI WC (winning ten games on the trot to enter the final, where they lost to Australia by six wickets). In addition, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 WC in Australia. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, BCCI has been impressed with Dravid's working style. They were eager to continue with him in a bid to ensure continuity to the structure he had put in place since late 2021. The board feared that it might otherwise get disrupted under a new coach. Also read: BCCI offers Rahul Dravid contract extension as head coach, says report Dravid's first assignment in his second stint as head coach will kick off with India's all-format tour of South Africa, starting early next month. India will play three T20Is and an equal number of ODIs before wrapping up the tour with two Tests. Soon after, the Indian team will shift their focus to the five Tests versus Ben Stokes-led England at home before the commencement of the T20 WC in June. While Dravid has been criticised and lauded for his efforts so far as India's coach, he will look to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought in the upcoming T20 WC. India have got closer to the title during his first stint, thus, the former Indian cricketer will be desperate to end the global trophy drought. The exact duration of his second term isn't known yet.

Rahul Dravid agrees to contract extension, to continue as India head coach at least till 2024 T20 World Cup

Seven Caribbean countries will host matches at next year's T20 World Cup, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Friday.

The ICC awarded the hosting of the event, to be held in June 2024, to the West Indies and the United States in November 2021.

Dominica, Guyana, St Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have also been named as hosts.

"The matches will again give cricket fans the unique experience of enjoying cricket in the Caribbean," said ICC chief executive Geoff Allardice.

Matches will also be held in New York, Florida and Texas in the United States, the first time a major ICC event has been held in the country.

One notable absence from the list of Caribbean host nations is Jamaica, whose Sabina Park ground in the capital Kingston is one of the iconic homes of West Indies cricket.

Jamaica has the largest population of the main cricket-playing nations in the Caribbean but did not submit a bid to host the tournament.

Courtney Francis, chief executive officer of the Jamaican Cricket Association, said Cricket West Indies engaged with national governments over potential bids and that Jamaica's administration had opted against participation.

"The government is the one who determines whether we could be able to host matches because all the expenses would have come back to the government," he told CVM television.&nbsp;

"The government is the one who would have put up the bid money. They would have been the one to carry out repairs to the infrastructure and so on.

"The government did not see it as a viable option in their view and that is the reason why I believe that we have not been able to bid."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-odi-series-india-draw-first-blood-in-pre-world-cup-showdown-gill-shami-impress-638671">IND vs AUS ODI Series: India draw first blood in Pre-World Cup showdown; Gill, Shami shine</a>

West Indies hosted the tournament in 2010, three years after holding the 50 overs World Cup, and Cricket West Indies chief executive Johnny Grave said they were ready to put on a show again.

"The West Indies has got a huge experience in hosting ICC events and we're currently hosting the Caribbean Premier League, which has been another successful tournament.&nbsp;

"We have very experienced operators throughout the region that we work with and partner with and all the stakeholders will be ready to welcome the world and stage this iconic ICC event," he said.&nbsp;

"We're all tremendously excited by the opportunity and the platform that it gives our region to promote itself to the world for tourism, for economic development, as well as hopefully to give our men's team a huge home advantage and going for a record third title."

Next year's tournament will be the first edition of the event to include a record 20 teams.

England are the current T20 world champions, winning their second title when they beat Pakistan in the final in Melbourne last year.

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Seven Caribbean countries will host matches at next year's T20 World Cup, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Friday.

Seven Caribbean countries will host matches at next year's T20 World Cup, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Friday. The ICC awarded the hosting of the event, to be held in June 2024, to the West Indies and the United States in November 2021. Dominica, Guyana, St Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have also been named as hosts. "The matches will again give cricket fans the unique experience of enjoying cricket in the Caribbean," said ICC chief executive Geoff Allardice. Matches will also be held in New York, Florida and Texas in the United States, the first time a major ICC event has been held in the country. One notable absence from the list of Caribbean host nations is Jamaica, whose Sabina Park ground in the capital Kingston is one of the iconic homes of West Indies cricket. Jamaica has the largest population of the main cricket-playing nations in the Caribbean but did not submit a bid to host the tournament. Courtney Francis, chief executive officer of the Jamaican Cricket Association, said Cricket West Indies engaged with national governments over potential bids and that Jamaica's administration had opted against participation. "The government is the one who determines whether we could be able to host matches because all the expenses would have come back to the government," he told CVM television. "The government is the one who would have put up the bid money. They would have been the one to carry out repairs to the infrastructure and so on. "The government did not see it as a viable option in their view and that is the reason why I believe that we have not been able to bid." ALSO READ | IND vs AUS ODI Series: India draw first blood in Pre-World Cup showdown; Gill, Shami shine West Indies hosted the tournament in 2010, three years after holding the 50 overs World Cup, and Cricket West Indies chief executive Johnny Grave said they were ready to put on a show again. "The West Indies has got a huge experience in hosting ICC events and we're currently hosting the Caribbean Premier League, which has been another successful tournament. "We have very experienced operators throughout the region that we work with and partner with and all the stakeholders will be ready to welcome the world and stage this iconic ICC event," he said. "We're all tremendously excited by the opportunity and the platform that it gives our region to promote itself to the world for tourism, for economic development, as well as hopefully to give our men's team a huge home advantage and going for a record third title." Next year's tournament will be the first edition of the event to include a record 20 teams. England are the current T20 world champions, winning their second title when they beat Pakistan in the final in Melbourne last year. 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.

ICC announces venues for Caribbean leg of 2024 T20 World Cup; Jamaica left out

I-Day special: How India, a sporting powerhouse, is set for further glory in coming year

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is the latest country to qualify for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, to be staged in West Indies and the USA next year. Papua New Guinea defeated the Philippines by a whopping 100-run margin in Port Moresby to bag a first-place finish in the ongoing East Asia-Pacific Qualifier and thus punch their ticket.

After being asked to bat first, PNG scored a mammoth 229 for six in 20 overs, thanks to quick-fire fifties from Tony Ura, Assad Vala and Charles Amini. The Philippines, in their chase, could manage just 129 for seven. Also, with this win, PNG completed its fifth successive victory and will end the tournament with second-placed Japan on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-glenn-mcgrath-fears-oval-outing-is-last-of-david-warner-in-tests-despite-retirement-plan-announcement-620213">Ashes: Glenn McGrath fears Oval outing is last of David Warner in Tests despite retirement plan announcement</a>

Japan, with six points from the first four games, had to beat Vanuatu on Friday to stay alive in the tournament; that, however, didn’t happen as Vanuatu picked their first win by riding on the back of Nalin Nipiko – who picked four wickets firstly and then scored an unbeaten 74 off 50 balls.

<h2>West Indies, USA to co-host 2024 T20 World Cup</h2>

The next edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by West Indies and the USA in 2024 and will be a 20-team tournament. All teams will be divided into group of four, with top two teams from each group further qualifying for the Super 8 stage. The Super 8 teams will then be divided into two groups, with the top two teams from there will qualify for the semis.

Twelve teams had already booked their berths before the regional qualifiers began, with hosts West Indies and USA being the two. Alongside them, top-eight ranked teams, including India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Netherlands and England – and Afghanistan and Bangladesh, on the virtue of their T20I rankings, also made the cut.

Other than PNG, Ireland and Scotland also qualified for the Men’s T20 World Cup by finishing in the top-two positions in Europe Region Qualifiers.

Qualifiers for the Americas (for one spot), Africa (two spots) and Asia (two spots) will also take place over the coming months.

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Papua New Guinea (PNG) is the latest country to qualify for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, to be staged in West Indies and the USA next year. Papua New Guinea defeated the Philippines by a whopping 100-run margin in Port Moresby to bag a first-place finish in the ongoing East Asia-Pacific Qualifier and thus punch their ticket.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is the latest country to qualify for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, to be staged in West Indies and the USA next year. Papua New Guinea defeated the Philippines by a whopping 100-run margin in Port Moresby to bag a first-place finish in the ongoing East Asia-Pacific Qualifier and thus punch their ticket. After being asked to bat first, PNG scored a mammoth 229 for six in 20 overs, thanks to quick-fire fifties from Tony Ura, Assad Vala and Charles Amini. The Philippines, in their chase, could manage just 129 for seven. Also, with this win, PNG completed its fifth successive victory and will end the tournament with second-placed Japan on Saturday. ALSO READ: Ashes: Glenn McGrath fears Oval outing is last of David Warner in Tests despite retirement plan announcement Japan, with six points from the first four games, had to beat Vanuatu on Friday to stay alive in the tournament; that, however, didn’t happen as Vanuatu picked their first win by riding on the back of Nalin Nipiko – who picked four wickets firstly and then scored an unbeaten 74 off 50 balls. West Indies, USA to co-host 2024 T20 World Cup The next edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by West Indies and the USA in 2024 and will be a 20-team tournament. All teams will be divided into group of four, with top two teams from each group further qualifying for the Super 8 stage. The Super 8 teams will then be divided into two groups, with the top two teams from there will qualify for the semis. Twelve teams had already booked their berths before the regional qualifiers began, with hosts West Indies and USA being the two. Alongside them, top-eight ranked teams, including India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Netherlands and England – and Afghanistan and Bangladesh, on the virtue of their T20I rankings, also made the cut. Other than PNG, Ireland and Scotland also qualified for the Men’s T20 World Cup by finishing in the top-two positions in Europe Region Qualifiers. Qualifiers for the Americas (for one spot), Africa (two spots) and Asia (two spots) will also take place over the coming months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Papua New Guinea seal 2024 T20 World Cup Qualification, join Ireland, Scotland in 20-team tournament